SHERRIENE JONES-SONTAG Kansas Chamber

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Chamber announced Wednesday its 2023 Leadership Kansas class. It includes two participants from Hutchinson, Kansas State Fair General Manager, Bryan Schulz and Michelle Inskeep from People's Bank and Trust.

As one of the oldest and most prestigious statewide leadership programs in the country, Leadership Kansas, or LK, is focused on developing and motivating Kansas leaders from across the state.

"The Kansas Chamber is excited to welcome the newest Leadership Kansas class - a great representation of the state's demographics," said Kansas Chamber President &amp; CEO Alan Cobb (LK '21). "

Since 1979, LK has fostered greater awareness and understanding of statewide economic, business, and political issues among the leaders of our state. Graduates of the LK program have gone on to take on key leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels. 

Leadership Kansas received more than 600 nominations for the 2023 program. After a thorough&nbsp;and thoughtful application and selection process, the selection committee chose 40 individuals for the 2023 class.&nbsp;

The committee and the Leadership Kansas Board of Advisors make every effort to ensure the class reflects the state in regard to geographic, ethnic, occupational, and gender diversity.&nbsp;The program begins in April with an orientation session in Lawrence and ends in October with graduation after the completion of seven sessions. 

The other cities the 2023 class will visit for this year's program include Garden City, Overland Park, Olathe, Lenexa, Kansas City, Kan., Leavenworth, Salina, Pittsburg, Hutchinson, Wichita, El Dorado, Manhattan, and Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Throughout the seven-month program, the class interacts with a variety of experts and community leaders through three-day educational training sessions. The diverse discussion topics include business, education, agriculture, public policy, societal health, economic development, and government.&nbsp;

"Participants in the Leadership Kansas program receive once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to meet many of Kansas’ distinguished business and government leaders. They become stronger leaders, better prepared to contribute to their communities and our state," said LK Executive Director Aaron Miller (LK '16).

Leadership Kansas has more than 1,500 alumni.

<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/2023/3/1677691015296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHERRIENE JONES-SONTAG Kansas ChamberTOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Chamber announced Wednesday its 2023 Leadership Kansas class. It includes two participants from Hutchinson, Kansas State Fair General Manager, Bryan Schulz and Michelle Inskeep from People's Bank and Trust.As one of the oldest and most prestigious statewide leadership programs in the country, Leadership Kansas, or LK, is focused on developing and motivating Kansas leaders from across the state. "The Kansas Chamber is excited to welcome the newest Leadership Kansas class - a great representation of the state's demographics," said Kansas Chamber President &amp; CEO Alan Cobb (LK '21). "Since 1979, LK has fostered greater awareness and understanding of statewide economic, business, and political issues among the leaders of our state. Graduates of the LK program have gone on to take on key leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels. Leadership Kansas received more than 600 nominations for the 2023 program. After a thorough&nbsp;and thoughtful application and selection process, the selection committee chose 40 individuals for the 2023 class.&nbsp;The committee and the Leadership Kansas Board of Advisors make every effort to ensure the class reflects the state in regard to geographic, ethnic, occupational, and gender diversity.&nbsp;The program begins in April with an orientation session in Lawrence and ends in October with graduation after the completion of seven sessions. The other cities the 2023 class will visit for this year's program include Garden City, Overland Park, Olathe, Lenexa, Kansas City, Kan., Leavenworth, Salina, Pittsburg, Hutchinson, Wichita, El Dorado, Manhattan, and Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout the seven-month program, the class interacts with a variety of experts and community leaders through three-day educational training sessions. The diverse discussion topics include business, education, agriculture, public policy, societal health, economic development, and government.&nbsp;"Participants in the Leadership Kansas program receive once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to meet many of Kansas’ distinguished business and government leaders. They become stronger leaders, better prepared to contribute to their communities and our state," said LK Executive Director Aaron Miller (LK '16).Leadership Kansas has more than 1,500 alumni.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677690761482.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><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;

Two from Hutchinson part of 2023 Leadership Kansas class

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;A public vote for Buhler USD 313 patrons on a proposed $8 million bond issue will take place in person on April 4th, 2023, with advance voting starting March 27th.&nbsp;

"There's really four main aspects of the project," said Director of Finance Shane Hecox. "We've got our Ad Astra Academies, that has grown from just a handful of students to about 175 students over the last two years. We've got the office space, where we're trying to consolidate all of our back of house staff that are now on the south end of town, bring them over to kind of our main campus for culture reasons. We've got some playground upgrades in that project. Those playground pieces of equipment, a very small piece could range from $30,000 all the way to a large piece, upwards of $300,000. Playground equipment is very, very expensive and very difficult to enhance out of capital outlay, and then there's the fourth part of the project, which is the indoor activity center."

Buhler High Activities Director Justin Seuser said the space will be large, but not quite football field size.

"The back side of the building is going to be dedicated to the activity purposes of the project," Seuser said. "I believe it's 60 yards in length and regulation width, or pretty close. The nice thing about that is, it gives us the ability to split that area up and have multiple programs going at one time."

The space will allow for multiple uses that could include:&nbsp;

"Space is at a premium," Seuser said. "Not only in the wintertime are we housing and trying to find places for kids to practice, not just our high school teams but our youth programs. We also have our youth baseball, youth softball, volleyball is coming in, just trying to find places for those kids to go, so that they can practice."

For a full breakdown of the bond, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd313.org/page/raising-the-standard-bond-issue">https://www.usd313.org/page/raising-the-standard-bond-issue</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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677687276207.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;A public vote for Buhler USD 313 patrons on a proposed $8 million bond issue will take place in person on April 4th, 2023, with advance voting starting March 27th.&nbsp;"There's really four main aspects of the project," said Director of Finance Shane Hecox. "We've got our Ad Astra Academies, that has grown from just a handful of students to about 175 students over the last two years. We've got the office space, where we're trying to consolidate all of our back of house staff that are now on the south end of town, bring them over to kind of our main campus for culture reasons. We've got some playground upgrades in that project. Those playground pieces of equipment, a very small piece could range from $30,000 all the way to a large piece, upwards of $300,000. Playground equipment is very, very expensive and very difficult to enhance out of capital outlay, and then there's the fourth part of the project, which is the indoor activity center."Buhler High Activities Director Justin Seuser said the space will be large, but not quite football field size."The back side of the building is going to be dedicated to the activity purposes of the project," Seuser said. "I believe it's 60 yards in length and regulation width, or pretty close. The nice thing about that is, it gives us the ability to split that area up and have multiple programs going at one time."The space will allow for multiple uses that could include:&nbsp;Band, flag corps, dancePE classesAthletic spaceLarge district meetingsCommunity youth sportsCommunity event space"Space is at a premium," Seuser said. "Not only in the wintertime are we housing and trying to find places for kids to practice, not just our high school teams but our youth programs. We also have our youth baseball, youth softball, volleyball is coming in, just trying to find places for those kids to go, so that they can practice."For a full breakdown of the bond, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd313.org/page/raising-the-standard-bond-issue">https://www.usd313.org/page/raising-the-standard-bond-issue</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;

USD 313 bond issue includes activities area

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Tuesday previewed plans to provide up to $250 million in assistance to rice farmers and what steps they can take to be prepared to sign up when the program is released later this spring. USDA is sharing information early so producers can prepare for program signup, which will include a pre-filled application in an effort to simplify and streamline the application process.

“USDA intends to use the streamlined approach it has utilized on other disaster programs to speed program implementation," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “By leveraging Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency data for the Emergency Relief Program, USDA saved farmers and staff significant time, and we think this approach will help us provide an initial payment more quickly with a final payment after the application period has closed. I appreciate Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Member John Boozman’s assistance bringing together rice farmers from across the country to provide input on how to expedite and simplify the process.”

On Dec. 29, 2022, President Biden signed into law H.R. 2617, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, which provided the authority and funding for USDA to make payments to rice producers based on data already on file with the USDA, including planted acres and acres prevented from being planted.

The full details of the program and application will not be available until after a Notice of Funding Availability is published later this year in the Federal Register. But there is something farmers can do right now to be better prepared for the signup, if they qualify for a higher payment limitation.

The payment limitation for the program is set by law and is higher if the farmer’s average adjusted gross farm income (income from activities related to farming, ranching, or forestry) is more than 75% of their average adjusted gross income (AGI). Specifically, a person or legal entity with adjusted gross farm income of less than 75% of their overall AGI, cannot receive, directly or indirectly, more than $125,000 in payments. AGI is based on the three taxable years preceding the most immediately preceding complete tax year. Farmers with 75% or more AGI from farming qualify for a $250,000 payment limit.

Rice farmers may visit their local county office to submit the appropriate form and certification (FSA-510, Request for an Exception to the $125,000 Payment Limitation for Certain Programs), if they qualify for and want to seek the higher payment limit and get part of the paperwork done early. Farmers will still have a chance to fill out the AGI form during signup as well. The form should be filled out for the 2022 crop year.

After the official notice is published later this year, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) plans to mail prefilled applications to producers using information on file with USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) or FSA, as reported by rice producers through their crop insurance agents or FSA county office. This streamlined application process will reduce the burden on producers and minimize errors due to manual data entries on the application form. More information will be provided when FSA announces the signup period in the coming weeks.

As directed by the omnibus legislation, FSA will calculate Rice Production Program (RPP) payments by multiplying the payment rate, individual average actual production history (APH), as reported to RMA, or county yield and an amount of certified rice acres determined by the number of planted acres and acres that were prevented from being planted. FSA plans to issue an initial payment to eligible farmers soon after applications are returned and a final payment after the sign-up has closed. Details on these procedures and the initial payment rate will be in the future notice.

For more information, go to <a href="https://www.usda.gov/">usda.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663858459654.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Tuesday previewed plans to provide up to $250 million in assistance to rice farmers and what steps they can take to be prepared to sign up when the program is released later this spring. USDA is sharing information early so producers can prepare for program signup, which will include a pre-filled application in an effort to simplify and streamline the application process.“USDA intends to use the streamlined approach it has utilized on other disaster programs to speed program implementation," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “By leveraging Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency data for the Emergency Relief Program, USDA saved farmers and staff significant time, and we think this approach will help us provide an initial payment more quickly with a final payment after the application period has closed. I appreciate Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Member John Boozman’s assistance bringing together rice farmers from across the country to provide input on how to expedite and simplify the process.”On Dec. 29, 2022, President Biden signed into law H.R. 2617, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, which provided the authority and funding for USDA to make payments to rice producers based on data already on file with the USDA, including planted acres and acres prevented from being planted.What Farmers Can Do NowThe full details of the program and application will not be available until after a Notice of Funding Availability is published later this year in the Federal Register. But there is something farmers can do right now to be better prepared for the signup, if they qualify for a higher payment limitation.The payment limitation for the program is set by law and is higher if the farmer’s average adjusted gross farm income (income from activities related to farming, ranching, or forestry) is more than 75% of their average adjusted gross income (AGI). Specifically, a person or legal entity with adjusted gross farm income of less than 75% of their overall AGI, cannot receive, directly or indirectly, more than $125,000 in payments. AGI is based on the three taxable years preceding the most immediately preceding complete tax year. Farmers with 75% or more AGI from farming qualify for a $250,000 payment limit.Rice farmers may visit their local county office to submit the appropriate form and certification (FSA-510, Request for an Exception to the $125,000 Payment Limitation for Certain Programs), if they qualify for and want to seek the higher payment limit and get part of the paperwork done early. Farmers will still have a chance to fill out the AGI form during signup as well. The form should be filled out for the 2022 crop year.Planned Application ProcessAfter the official notice is published later this year, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) plans to mail prefilled applications to producers using information on file with USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) or FSA, as reported by rice producers through their crop insurance agents or FSA county office. This streamlined application process will reduce the burden on producers and minimize errors due to manual data entries on the application form. More information will be provided when FSA announces the signup period in the coming weeks.Program PaymentsAs directed by the omnibus legislation, FSA will calculate Rice Production Program (RPP) payments by multiplying the payment rate, individual average actual production history (APH), as reported to RMA, or county yield and an amount of certified rice acres determined by the number of planted acres and acres that were prevented from being planted. FSA plans to issue an initial payment to eligible farmers soon after applications are returned and a final payment after the sign-up has closed. Details on these procedures and the initial payment rate will be in the future notice.For more information, go to <a href="https://www.usda.gov/">usda.gov</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;

USDA Encourages Rice Farmers to Prepare for new Rice Production Program

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;An early morning fire in Hutchinson Wednesday may have been intentionally set.

According to Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer, the department was called out at 4:18 a.m. to 715 West 9th on a report of a structure fire.&nbsp;

When crews got there, they found a single story home with heavy fire showing from the rear of the home. As fire crews entered the home, they located the seat of the fire in a bedroom that had extended into the attic space and other areas of the home. 

Crews made an aggressive interior attack and were able to stop the spread of fire before it moved through the entire attic space. No one was home at the time of the fire; however, fire command was given additional information that the home was intentionally set on fire. 

HFD remains on scene overhauling the structure ensuring that the fire is under control. HFD fire investigators continue to work the ongoing situation. No injuries were reported. 

HFD would like to thank the following agencies for their support in this incident, Reno Co. Emergency Communications, Reno County Emergency Medical Services, Hutchinson Police Department, Hutchinson Public Works, Evergy and Kansas Gas.

<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/2023/3/1677673182492.jpeg" alt="700 block West 9th Fire" />
 <figcaption>700 block West 9th Fire</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;An early morning fire in Hutchinson Wednesday may have been intentionally set.According to Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer, the department was called out at 4:18 a.m. to 715 West 9th on a report of a structure fire.&nbsp;When crews got there, they found a single story home with heavy fire showing from the rear of the home. As fire crews entered the home, they located the seat of the fire in a bedroom that had extended into the attic space and other areas of the home. Crews made an aggressive interior attack and were able to stop the spread of fire before it moved through the entire attic space. No one was home at the time of the fire; however, fire command was given additional information that the home was intentionally set on fire. HFD remains on scene overhauling the structure ensuring that the fire is under control. HFD fire investigators continue to work the ongoing situation. No injuries were reported. HFD would like to thank the following agencies for their support in this incident, Reno Co. Emergency Communications, Reno County Emergency Medical Services, Hutchinson Police Department, Hutchinson Public Works, Evergy and Kansas Gas.<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;

Early morning fire in Hutch Wednesday

Hutch Fire encourages wildfire preparation

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The K-State Research &amp; Extension Reno County Office will be hosting a workshop for anyone interested in becoming a farmers’ market vendor. 

The workshop will be held on Sunday, March 5 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Reno County Extension Office located at 2 W. 10th Avenue in South Hutchinson. Park behind the building and enter through the west meeting room door at the back of the building.

Topics covered include: Rules and Regulations for Selling Food at the Market, Tips for New Market Vendors, Farmers’ Market Requirements. 

Current farmers’ market vendors will be on hand to answer questions and offer guidance for selling at the market.

Although the workshop is free, pre-registration is requested by March 3. 

For more information or to register, contact the Reno County Extension Office at 620-662-2371 or email <a href="mailto:ppaulsen@ksu.edu">ppaulsen@ksu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646666489658.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The K-State Research &amp; Extension Reno County Office will be hosting a workshop for anyone interested in becoming a farmers’ market vendor. The workshop will be held on Sunday, March 5 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Reno County Extension Office located at 2 W. 10th Avenue in South Hutchinson. Park behind the building and enter through the west meeting room door at the back of the building.Topics covered include: Rules and Regulations for Selling Food at the Market, Tips for New Market Vendors, Farmers’ Market Requirements. Current farmers’ market vendors will be on hand to answer questions and offer guidance for selling at the market.Although the workshop is free, pre-registration is requested by March 3. For more information or to register, contact the Reno County Extension Office at 620-662-2371 or email <a href="mailto:ppaulsen@ksu.edu">ppaulsen@ksu.edu</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;

Farmers Market Vendor Basics Workshop coming up

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;——————————————

3/1/2023 3:32 AM-Jesse	Santiago Martinez-Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

3/1/2023 2:58 AM-Sandy	Sue Russell-Failure to Appear

3/1/2023 1:57 AM-Philps	Lamar Williams-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

2/28/2023 11:30 PM-Kyle	Keith Smith-Probation Violation; Failure to Appear; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

2/28/2023 8:59 PM-Tanner	Leroy May-Possession of a Firearm Under the Influence; Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway

2/28/2023 8:33 PM-Kaylin	Paige Hartman-Failure to Appear

2/28/2023 8:18 PM-Travis	James Wood-DUI; 1st conv; blood or breath .08 or higher; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO

2/28/2023 11:45 AM-Teresa	Ann Hanson-Probation Violation

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;——————————————3/1/2023 3:32 AM-Jesse	Santiago Martinez-Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body3/1/2023 2:58 AM-Sandy	Sue Russell-Failure to Appear3/1/2023 1:57 AM-Philps	Lamar Williams-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order2/28/2023 11:30 PM-Kyle	Keith Smith-Probation Violation; Failure to Appear; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,5002/28/2023 8:59 PM-Tanner	Leroy May-Possession of a Firearm Under the Influence; Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway2/28/2023 8:33 PM-Kaylin	Paige Hartman-Failure to Appear2/28/2023 8:18 PM-Travis	James Wood-DUI; 1st conv; blood or breath .08 or higher; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO2/28/2023 11:45 AM-Teresa	Ann Hanson-Probation Violation

Daily Bookings

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — ProValue Insurance is giving back to the Reno County community with the donation of a house along with an additional $30,000 to Interfaith Housing &amp; Community Services in Hutchinson. &nbsp;

A few years ago, ProValue Insurance purchased the property just to the east of their Hutchinson office for a little over $200,000. When ProValue purchased the house, their Board of Directors approved the donation of the house to Interfaith Housing &amp; Community Services with the intention to move the house to another location in Reno County to provide a home for a family within the community. &nbsp;

“I think the only options were to donate it to Interfaith Housing, or it was going to be demolished,” Ashton Brunk with ProValue Insurance said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Additionally, along with&nbsp;the donation of the house, ProValue Insurance made a cash donation of $30,000 to Interfaith Housing to help cover moving costs. &nbsp;

After much effort and collaboration, the house was officially moved Tuesday, Feb. 28 to its new home in Reno County.&nbsp;

Interfaith Housing &amp; Community Services is a non-profit organization that seeks to alleviate poverty and build community through housing assistance, financial education, and individual empowerment. &nbsp;

The donation of this house will help by providing a home for a Reno County family in need of housing assistance. &nbsp;

Giving back to the communities in which ProValue serves is an important component to the mission and values that the organization holds.&nbsp;

“We are privileged to be a part of the Hutchinson community and we know that there are many needs around us,” Mitch Williams, ProValue Insurance President and CEO, said. “We are thankful for our Board of Directors for approving this donation and for Interfaith Housing for accepting this donation to support a family in Reno County This is another example of the ways that ProValue Insurance contributes to and supports the communities that we serve.”&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;Brunk, the donated house will be planted in Partridge.&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/2023/2/1677616490068.jpeg" alt="Interfaith Housing will use the donated home to help a family in need. [Submitted Photo: ProValue Insurance]&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Interfaith Housing will use the donated home to help a family in need. [Submitted Photo: ProValue Insurance]&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY, Kan. — ProValue Insurance is giving back to the Reno County community with the donation of a house along with an additional $30,000 to Interfaith Housing &amp; Community Services in Hutchinson. &nbsp;A few years ago, ProValue Insurance purchased the property just to the east of their Hutchinson office for a little over $200,000. When ProValue purchased the house, their Board of Directors approved the donation of the house to Interfaith Housing &amp; Community Services with the intention to move the house to another location in Reno County to provide a home for a family within the community. &nbsp;“I think the only options were to donate it to Interfaith Housing, or it was going to be demolished,” Ashton Brunk with ProValue Insurance said. &nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, along with&nbsp;the donation of the house, ProValue Insurance made a cash donation of $30,000 to Interfaith Housing to help cover moving costs. &nbsp;After much effort and collaboration, the house was officially moved Tuesday, Feb. 28 to its new home in Reno County.&nbsp;Interfaith Housing &amp; Community Services is a non-profit organization that seeks to alleviate poverty and build community through housing assistance, financial education, and individual empowerment. &nbsp;The donation of this house will help by providing a home for a Reno County family in need of housing assistance. &nbsp;Giving back to the communities in which ProValue serves is an important component to the mission and values that the organization holds.&nbsp;“We are privileged to be a part of the Hutchinson community and we know that there are many needs around us,” Mitch Williams, ProValue Insurance President and CEO, said. “We are thankful for our Board of Directors for approving this donation and for Interfaith Housing for accepting this donation to support a family in Reno County This is another example of the ways that ProValue Insurance contributes to and supports the communities that we serve.”&nbsp;According to&nbsp;Brunk, the donated house will be planted in Partridge.&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;

ProValue Insurance donates house

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — On Tuesday, February 28th, a water line break was reported in the 2700 block of East 17th Ave. where 17th transitions to Airport Road. 

The break is on a 10-inch water line that was installed in 1967. It initially appears to be on the same line where there was a break worked on earlier this month. Public Works Water Maintenance staff are beginning to excavate the line and there are no customers affected while this repair is being made.

Due to the location of the water line break, it requires closure of E 17th Ave. from Apple Lane to 11th. 

Traffic control will remain in place while the repair is being made to protect the safety of the workers and the public. An update will be provided with a date the road will be re-opened as soon as the repair is completed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677612087929.jpeg" alt="17th and Airport closure 2-13-23 (1).jpg" />
 <figcaption>17th and Airport closure 2-13-23 (1).jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — On Tuesday, February 28th, a water line break was reported in the 2700 block of East 17th Ave. where 17th transitions to Airport Road. The break is on a 10-inch water line that was installed in 1967. It initially appears to be on the same line where there was a break worked on earlier this month. Public Works Water Maintenance staff are beginning to excavate the line and there are no customers affected while this repair is being made.Due to the location of the water line break, it requires closure of E 17th Ave. from Apple Lane to 11th. Traffic control will remain in place while the repair is being made to protect the safety of the workers and the public. An update will be provided with a date the road will be re-opened as soon as the repair is completed.<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;

17th closed again due to main break Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There have been some delays, the last of them due to illness, but the State Fair sign on Main is finished before visitors come for the basketball tournaments.

State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz sent Hutch Post a photo of the functioning sign Tuesday. This is just one of many upgrades going on throughout the Fairgrounds, including asphalt work,&nbsp;HVAC work for the Oz Gallery and Centennial Hall and a new overall PA system for the Fairgrounds to use for emergency messages.

All of those upgrades plan to be finished in time for the 2023 Fair, along with the House of Capper project, though all ongoing projects are at the whim of supply chain delays that may change which months things are finished in.

The Kansas State Fair will run from Sept. 8-17. The next major event on the grounds is the Kansas Ag Expo, scheduled for&nbsp;Saturday, March 30 through April 1.

<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/2023/2/1677610943904.jpeg" alt="Main Street State Fair Sign-Photo from Bryan Schulz" />
 <figcaption>Main Street State Fair Sign-Photo from Bryan Schulz</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — There have been some delays, the last of them due to illness, but the State Fair sign on Main is finished before visitors come for the basketball tournaments.State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz sent Hutch Post a photo of the functioning sign Tuesday. This is just one of many upgrades going on throughout the Fairgrounds, including asphalt work,&nbsp;HVAC work for the Oz Gallery and Centennial Hall and a new overall PA system for the Fairgrounds to use for emergency messages.All of those upgrades plan to be finished in time for the 2023 Fair, along with the House of Capper project, though all ongoing projects are at the whim of supply chain delays that may change which months things are finished in.The Kansas State Fair will run from Sept. 8-17. The next major event on the grounds is the Kansas Ag Expo, scheduled for&nbsp;Saturday, March 30 through April 1.<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;

State Fair Main Street sign fixed

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst made comments at the County Commission meeting this morning that those who are watching the finances of relatives that are Medicare recipients might take a closer look of late. 

He told the commission and those in attendance about unsolicited COVID tests and other medical equipment charged to the accounts of recipients who didn't ask for them. 

If you see a charge on your itemized list that is sent to you, that you know you didn't incur, the State of Kansas has a program called <a href="https://kdads.ks.gov/kdads-commissions/long-term-services-supports/aging-services/medicare-programs/kansas-senior-medicare-patrol">Kansas Senior Medicare Patrol</a> that can help.

<a href="https://kdads.ks.gov/kdads-commissions/long-term-services-supports/aging-services/medicare-programs/kansas-senior-medicare-patrol">From the Kansas SMP website</a>:

If you suspect Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse, address it immediately by taking these steps: 

Rule out error-If you have questions about information on your or your loved one's Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), call the provider or plan and ask for an explanation.

Get help from your SMP-If you are not comfortable calling the provider or plan or if you are not satisfied with their response, your local SMP can help you identify and report fraud schemes and deceptive health care practices, such as illegal marketing or billing for services that were never provided. They can also refer complaints of potential fraud and abuse to the appropriate entity, who can intervene. 

You can contact local law enforcement, call 1-800-Medicare or report directly to the OIG Hotline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477)

When reporting fraud, have the following information available:

Your name as listed on your Medicare card

If you have further questions, you can call Kansas SMP at 800-432-3535.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584978069972.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst made comments at the County Commission meeting this morning that those who are watching the finances of relatives that are Medicare recipients might take a closer look of late. He told the commission and those in attendance about unsolicited COVID tests and other medical equipment charged to the accounts of recipients who didn't ask for them. If you see a charge on your itemized list that is sent to you, that you know you didn't incur, the State of Kansas has a program called <a href="https://kdads.ks.gov/kdads-commissions/long-term-services-supports/aging-services/medicare-programs/kansas-senior-medicare-patrol">Kansas Senior Medicare Patrol</a> that can help.<a href="https://kdads.ks.gov/kdads-commissions/long-term-services-supports/aging-services/medicare-programs/kansas-senior-medicare-patrol">From the Kansas SMP website</a>:If you suspect Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse, address it immediately by taking these steps: Rule out error-If you have questions about information on your or your loved one's Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), call the provider or plan and ask for an explanation.Get help from your SMP-If you are not comfortable calling the provider or plan or if you are not satisfied with their response, your local SMP can help you identify and report fraud schemes and deceptive health care practices, such as illegal marketing or billing for services that were never provided. They can also refer complaints of potential fraud and abuse to the appropriate entity, who can intervene. There are several people you can contactYou can contact local law enforcement, call 1-800-Medicare or report directly to the OIG Hotline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477)When reporting fraud, have the following information available:Your name as listed on your Medicare cardMedicare numberName of the providerDate of serviceDescription of the concern or problem If you have further questions, you can call Kansas SMP at 800-432-3535.<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;

Commissioner: Medicare fraud happening in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;After their purchase of Thomas Flooring Co, upcoming business F&amp;A Flooring is expecting to make their grand opening with their new sign and ribbon-cutting in late March. &nbsp;

Amber Boisse, one owner and the “A” in F&amp;A Flooring, said they feel honored to continue the mom-and-pop service&nbsp;that&nbsp;Thomas Flooring has provided Hutchinson &nbsp;

“We are very excited to continue that,” Boisse said. “We gathered a great relationship with Ron Thomas before he left, and he has kind of been teaching us how he was doing business and helping us understand the industry and just being kind of in our back pocket. We're excited to bring energy to downtown and we're excited to bring our local family to downtown.” &nbsp;

The “F” in F&amp;A Flooring is Forrest Boisse, Amber Boisse’s husband. &nbsp;

Amber Boisse said F&amp;A Flooring aspires to be the store where anybody and buy flooring, but also be the ones that hit other markets that are not just personal. &nbsp;

“We want to be the ones that bring the hustle, that go after the commercial, the contractors the landlords, the builders, all of that,” Boisse said. “We&nbsp;want to be the ‘catch-all,’ we want to go for it.” &nbsp;

F&amp;A Flooring hopes to provide flooring, tile, and countertops that people cannot&nbsp;find elsewhere.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“We don't want to provide what the big box stores have, we already know what they have, we want to give luxury,” Boisse said. “We want to be able to find that stuff that you might go on like HGTV and watch and be like ‘oh that's cool.’ We want to be the up-and-coming, this just-launched, we want to be that type of store, as well as provide the staples that everybody wants and needs can still get.”&nbsp;

Boisse said F&amp;A Flooring wants to provide different and unique options to people. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have a designer on staff, Carla, she's our floor manager and so she's been helping to design so we're excited for that,” Boisse said.  &nbsp;

The Boisse’s also plan to renovate the store to truly make it into F&amp;A Flooring.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite their grand opening scheduled for late March, F&amp;A Flooring has been open since February, and they are taking business. &nbsp;

“We have hardwood flooring; we have luxury vinyl tile, that is the new and upcoming thing everybody wants,” Boisse said. “You can get it in the wood look, you can get it in the tile look.” 

They also have a variety of residential and commercial carpet, counter tops, and tiles in stock. &nbsp;

“We’re hoping to add cabinets to our shop at some point,” Boisse said. &nbsp;

F&amp;A Flooring is located at 19 N. Main St. They are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.&nbsp;and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.&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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677604386552.jpeg" alt="Amber Boisse of F&amp;A Flooring said she and her husband, Forrest Boisse, have big plans for the community with their store. [Photo: Judd Weil]" />
 <figcaption>Amber Boisse of F&amp;A Flooring said she and her husband, Forrest Boisse, have big plans for the community with their store. [Photo: Judd Weil]</figcaption>
 </figure>BY JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;After their purchase of Thomas Flooring Co, upcoming business F&amp;A Flooring is expecting to make their grand opening with their new sign and ribbon-cutting in late March. &nbsp;Amber Boisse, one owner and the “A” in F&amp;A Flooring, said they feel honored to continue the mom-and-pop service&nbsp;that&nbsp;Thomas Flooring has provided Hutchinson &nbsp;“We are very excited to continue that,” Boisse said. “We gathered a great relationship with Ron Thomas before he left, and he has kind of been teaching us how he was doing business and helping us understand the industry and just being kind of in our back pocket. We're excited to bring energy to downtown and we're excited to bring our local family to downtown.” &nbsp;The “F” in F&amp;A Flooring is Forrest Boisse, Amber Boisse’s husband. &nbsp;Amber Boisse said F&amp;A Flooring aspires to be the store where anybody and buy flooring, but also be the ones that hit other markets that are not just personal. &nbsp;“We want to be the ones that bring the hustle, that go after the commercial, the contractors the landlords, the builders, all of that,” Boisse said. “We&nbsp;want to be the ‘catch-all,’ we want to go for it.” &nbsp;F&amp;A Flooring hopes to provide flooring, tile, and countertops that people cannot&nbsp;find elsewhere.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We don't want to provide what the big box stores have, we already know what they have, we want to give luxury,” Boisse said. “We want to be able to find that stuff that you might go on like HGTV and watch and be like ‘oh that's cool.’ We want to be the up-and-coming, this just-launched, we want to be that type of store, as well as provide the staples that everybody wants and needs can still get.”&nbsp;Boisse said F&amp;A Flooring wants to provide different and unique options to people. &nbsp;&nbsp;“We have a designer on staff, Carla, she's our floor manager and so she's been helping to design so we're excited for that,” Boisse said. &nbsp;The Boisse’s also plan to renovate the store to truly make it into F&amp;A Flooring.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite their grand opening scheduled for late March, F&amp;A Flooring has been open since February, and they are taking business. &nbsp;“We have hardwood flooring; we have luxury vinyl tile, that is the new and upcoming thing everybody wants,” Boisse said. “You can get it in the wood look, you can get it in the tile look.” They also have a variety of residential and commercial carpet, counter tops, and tiles in stock. &nbsp;“We’re hoping to add cabinets to our shop at some point,” Boisse said. &nbsp;F&amp;A Flooring is located at 19 N. Main St. They are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.&nbsp;and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.&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;

F&A Flooring to hold grand opening late March 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Artist and astronaut Nicole Stott will be at <a href="https://theclayworks.com/">The Clayworks at Disability Supports</a> in Hutchinson on March 14, to pick up some&nbsp;soon-to-be out-of-this-world pieces of&nbsp;artwork born of a new collaboration between Clayworks, the <a href="https://cosmo.org/">Cosmosphere</a>, and the <a href="https://www.spaceforartfoundation.org/">Space for Art Foundation</a>. &nbsp;

The Cosmosphere introduced Stott to Clayworks’ during her 2022 visit to Hutchinson. She was inspired to ask the Clayworks' artists to contribute to an “Art Spacesuit” creation called&nbsp;Time. &nbsp;

Collaborators from all over the world&nbsp;painted pieces of fabric suitable for spaceflight. The pieces were then stitched together into a whole spacesuit-shaped garment.&nbsp;

“A type of fabric we've working on is a very special piece of fabric that the Cosmosphere gave to us to use,” Grace Price, a Clayworks artist and designer, said.&nbsp;“It will be on a spacesuit so we had to use very specific paint in order to make it safe when it is actually in space.” &nbsp;

According to Price, Cosmosphere scientists did rigorous testing to make sure Clayworks was using the right paint and fabric. &nbsp;

The Space for Art Foundation sent Clayworks artists the special fabric and the specific acrylic paints needed to work on their Art Spacesuit pieces. &nbsp;

Stott provided guidance for artists as they painted to think about the awesomeness of the universe and humanity’s special place in it here on Earth. Cosmosphere staff members assisted with the painting project.&nbsp;

“They really wanted to show the significance of our place in the universe, and how us Earthlings all have to work together as “crewmates” and work together on Earth for Earth to be successful and how that relates to space,” Price said&nbsp;“They wanted us to show the difference between space and Earth and how they interact with each other, and the concept of time.”&nbsp;

A big part of the artwork, is the concept of time. A particular pattern showcasing the phases of Earth’s moon is meant to reflect that. &nbsp;

Stott, a 27-year NASA veteran, served 104 days in space as a crewmember on both the International Space Station (ISS) and the Space Shuttle. Stott performed many typical duties in space, including a spacewalk, and she was the first astronaut to paint a watercolor in space. &nbsp;

Stott founded the Space for Art Foundation to bring space and art together for children around the world–helping them overcome challenges through the wonder of space exploration, the inspiration of Spaceship Earth, and the healing power of art. &nbsp;

Stott will arrive at Clayworks, located at 1125 N. Main St. in Hutchinson, at 1 p.m. on&nbsp;March 14 to pick up the finished pieces and to meet the Clayworks client artists who worked on them. &nbsp;

Stott is also in Hutchinson that week <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/268dc1a9-7598-459b-afc5-abeeb022d6b1">for a Cosmosphere space camp</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677601699994.jpeg" alt="Clayworks was commissioned by astronaut Nicole Stott to create Time. [Photo: Judd Weil]" />
 <figcaption>Clayworks was commissioned by astronaut Nicole Stott to create Time. [Photo: Judd Weil]</figcaption>
 </figure>BY JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Artist and astronaut Nicole Stott will be at <a href="https://theclayworks.com/">The Clayworks at Disability Supports</a> in Hutchinson on March 14, to pick up some&nbsp;soon-to-be out-of-this-world pieces of&nbsp;artwork born of a new collaboration between Clayworks, the <a href="https://cosmo.org/">Cosmosphere</a>, and the <a href="https://www.spaceforartfoundation.org/">Space for Art Foundation</a>. &nbsp;The Cosmosphere introduced Stott to Clayworks’ during her 2022 visit to Hutchinson. She was inspired to ask the Clayworks' artists to contribute to an “Art Spacesuit” creation called&nbsp;Time. &nbsp;Collaborators from all over the world&nbsp;painted pieces of fabric suitable for spaceflight. The pieces were then stitched together into a whole spacesuit-shaped garment.&nbsp;“A type of fabric we've working on is a very special piece of fabric that the Cosmosphere gave to us to use,” Grace Price, a Clayworks artist and designer, said.&nbsp;“It will be on a spacesuit so we had to use very specific paint in order to make it safe when it is actually in space.” &nbsp;According to Price, Cosmosphere scientists did rigorous testing to make sure Clayworks was using the right paint and fabric. &nbsp;The Space for Art Foundation sent Clayworks artists the special fabric and the specific acrylic paints needed to work on their Art Spacesuit pieces. &nbsp;Stott provided guidance for artists as they painted to think about the awesomeness of the universe and humanity’s special place in it here on Earth. Cosmosphere staff members assisted with the painting project.&nbsp;“They really wanted to show the significance of our place in the universe, and how us Earthlings all have to work together as “crewmates” and work together on Earth for Earth to be successful and how that relates to space,” Price said&nbsp;“They wanted us to show the difference between space and Earth and how they interact with each other, and the concept of time.”&nbsp;A big part of the artwork, is the concept of time. A particular pattern showcasing the phases of Earth’s moon is meant to reflect that. &nbsp;Stott, a 27-year NASA veteran, served 104 days in space as a crewmember on both the International Space Station (ISS) and the Space Shuttle. Stott performed many typical duties in space, including a spacewalk, and she was the first astronaut to paint a watercolor in space. &nbsp;Stott founded the Space for Art Foundation to bring space and art together for children around the world–helping them overcome challenges through the wonder of space exploration, the inspiration of Spaceship Earth, and the healing power of art. &nbsp;Stott will arrive at Clayworks, located at 1125 N. Main St. in Hutchinson, at 1 p.m. on&nbsp;March 14 to pick up the finished pieces and to meet the Clayworks client artists who worked on them. &nbsp;Stott is also in Hutchinson that week <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/268dc1a9-7598-459b-afc5-abeeb022d6b1">for a Cosmosphere space camp</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Clayworks sending art to space

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Sunshine Meadows Gala is coming up Friday at the Sandhills Event Center in Hutchinson. The goal for this year's event is to continue the fundraising for&nbsp;the new Assisted Living Memory Care Unit.

"We are getting ready to break ground this spring on a&nbsp;new Assisted Living Memory Care Unit," said Sara Nowlan with the home. "At Sunshine Meadows right now, we do have the full continuum of care, all the way from independent living through skilled nursing. The current Memory Care Unit is skilled nursing. What we are seeing is a trend is needing some memory care for people who only need assisted living."

Doors will open at 5 p.m., with bingo available, the buffet begins at 5:30 p.m. The live auction starts at 7 p.m. and dessert will be served following the auction. One of the goals of the new unit is to be able to keep couples together where one needs the memory care, but the other does not.

"They basically can take care of themselves for the most part," Nowlan said. "They just need a little assistance. Also, things like lighting matters. The specific nurses that will work in that area are trained to also help take care of them in a very special way with lots of patience, lots of special activities, just make them feel super comfortable, but they will not need that skilled nursing piece."

Tickets are $100. You can buy tickets <a href="https://www.flipcause.com/secure/event_step2/MTc0MDQ5/195695">online</a>. For more information, call Sunshine Meadows at 620-543-2251.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622040481006.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Sunshine Meadows Gala is coming up Friday at the Sandhills Event Center in Hutchinson. The goal for this year's event is to continue the fundraising for&nbsp;the new Assisted Living Memory Care Unit."We are getting ready to break ground this spring on a&nbsp;new Assisted Living Memory Care Unit," said Sara Nowlan with the home. "At Sunshine Meadows right now, we do have the full continuum of care, all the way from independent living through skilled nursing. The current Memory Care Unit is skilled nursing. What we are seeing is a trend is needing some memory care for people who only need assisted living."Doors will open at 5 p.m., with bingo available, the buffet begins at 5:30 p.m. The live auction starts at 7 p.m. and dessert will be served following the auction. One of the goals of the new unit is to be able to keep couples together where one needs the memory care, but the other does not."They basically can take care of themselves for the most part," Nowlan said. "They just need a little assistance. Also, things like lighting matters. The specific nurses that will work in that area are trained to also help take care of them in a very special way with lots of patience, lots of special activities, just make them feel super comfortable, but they will not need that skilled nursing piece."Tickets are $100. You can buy tickets <a href="https://www.flipcause.com/secure/event_step2/MTc0MDQ5/195695">online</a>. For more information, call Sunshine Meadows at 620-543-2251.<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;

Gala to support Assisted Living Memory Care Unit

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Republican Rep. Kenny Titus, whose district includes part of Manhattan and much of Wabaunsee County has served as an adjunct water law professor at KU in addition to working on water policy with the Kansas Department of Agriculture before getting into politics. He explained that making sure the money supply for water work is stable was one of the accomplishments of that committee in the House prior to turnaround.

"First is stable funding for the State Water Plan fund," Titus said. "If you go all the way back to Sam Brownback's first term, he was very interested in water and taking care of that resource in the Ogallala. He created a blue ribbon task force. It takes somewhere between $60 and $70 million to actually fund all of the water projects that we need to be working on. Out west, that includes dealing with declining ground water levels. In the eastern part of the state, it includes keeping our reservoirs from silting up, because much of our water supply comes from reservoirs and surface streams. There are problems in different parts of the state, but everybody has problems."

The recommendations have made it out of committee this session and made it across the floor of the House before the turnaround deadline.

"We adopted the blue ribbon task force, which carves off about $54 million of existing sales tax," Titus said. "We're not raising any taxes. It would take the fees that are already charged, plus dedicating a certain amount of sales tax to water projects every year, sort of like we do with the state highway fund, a similar model. That should give the water authority and the water office the resources they need to work on projects. One piece of that is very important. Because we're adding so much new money to the Water Plan budget, we wanted to put some guard rails in place. If you look around all of your communities, water infrastructure in most communities is aging and in need of repair. We have the lead pipeline rule from the EPA and all of these issues. It takes a lot of money to fix these."

Cities and towns of all sizes across Kansas need to work on this.

"About $20 million a year of that $54 million that we're dedicating to water, will be available to municipalities and special districts to varying degrees, in order to allow for all the engineering work and the planning and the grant applications and the matching funds," Titus said. "There will actually be some loan forgiveness through the state and some other grants, as well, to help cities repair this aging infrastructure and create safe drinking water and wastewater systems."

Some of that money will also be dedicated to raising pay for the people who keep those systems running. Towns that have one or maybe two employees on this and no professional engineering staff will have access to additional dollars.

"There are provisions we put in for communities of 2000 people or less," Titus said. "They are going to get more forgiveness than some of our larger cities. I hear constantly, my district is mostly small towns, other than Manhattan and these small cities, when all the federal money comes available for these grant projects, they oftentimes don't have the resources to hire the engineer to get the shovel-ready grant project ready, to even apply for the federal money. This will give a state source of up to $5 million a year to help with technical assistance, so that these small towns will be in a position to capture more of this grant money that's available from the feds, or wherever."

The bill still needs to go through the process on the Senate side, but Titus is confident that it can gain support over there, as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677595058799.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Republican Rep. Kenny Titus, whose district includes part of Manhattan and much of Wabaunsee County has served as an adjunct water law professor at KU in addition to working on water policy with the Kansas Department of Agriculture before getting into politics. He explained that making sure the money supply for water work is stable was one of the accomplishments of that committee in the House prior to turnaround."First is stable funding for the State Water Plan fund," Titus said. "If you go all the way back to Sam Brownback's first term, he was very interested in water and taking care of that resource in the Ogallala. He created a blue ribbon task force. It takes somewhere between $60 and $70 million to actually fund all of the water projects that we need to be working on. Out west, that includes dealing with declining ground water levels. In the eastern part of the state, it includes keeping our reservoirs from silting up, because much of our water supply comes from reservoirs and surface streams. There are problems in different parts of the state, but everybody has problems."The recommendations have made it out of committee this session and made it across the floor of the House before the turnaround deadline."We adopted the blue ribbon task force, which carves off about $54 million of existing sales tax," Titus said. "We're not raising any taxes. It would take the fees that are already charged, plus dedicating a certain amount of sales tax to water projects every year, sort of like we do with the state highway fund, a similar model. That should give the water authority and the water office the resources they need to work on projects. One piece of that is very important. Because we're adding so much new money to the Water Plan budget, we wanted to put some guard rails in place. If you look around all of your communities, water infrastructure in most communities is aging and in need of repair. We have the lead pipeline rule from the EPA and all of these issues. It takes a lot of money to fix these."Cities and towns of all sizes across Kansas need to work on this."About $20 million a year of that $54 million that we're dedicating to water, will be available to municipalities and special districts to varying degrees, in order to allow for all the engineering work and the planning and the grant applications and the matching funds," Titus said. "There will actually be some loan forgiveness through the state and some other grants, as well, to help cities repair this aging infrastructure and create safe drinking water and wastewater systems."Some of that money will also be dedicated to raising pay for the people who keep those systems running. Towns that have one or maybe two employees on this and no professional engineering staff will have access to additional dollars."There are provisions we put in for communities of 2000 people or less," Titus said. "They are going to get more forgiveness than some of our larger cities. I hear constantly, my district is mostly small towns, other than Manhattan and these small cities, when all the federal money comes available for these grant projects, they oftentimes don't have the resources to hire the engineer to get the shovel-ready grant project ready, to even apply for the federal money. This will give a state source of up to $5 million a year to help with technical assistance, so that these small towns will be in a position to capture more of this grant money that's available from the feds, or wherever."The bill still needs to go through the process on the Senate side, but Titus is confident that it can gain support over there, as well.<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;

Water law expert, state legislator pleased with water plan funding

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education heard presentations on Career &amp; Technical Education and Elementary Art at their meeting on Monday.

February is Career &amp; Technical Education Month, and student officers from Hutchinson Career &amp; Technical Education Academy presented to board members on the various career pathways that HCTEA offers. The new Geometry in Construction course presented on the importance of practical application of learning in a classroom setting.&nbsp;

Kylie Sampson, Elementary Art Teacher, also presented to board members on the importance of art education at the elementary level. Sampson shared that March is Youth Art Month, and students have been working on projects throughout the year to practice different skills. She shared a video of students sharing their projects and telling the reasons they enjoy learning about art at school.

The Board also approved the 2023-2024 calendar. The calendar has K-9 starting on Aug. 16, 2023 with 10-12 on Aug. 17 and thanks to being able to shorten winter break, the last day of school is scheduled for May 17, 2024.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655147159618.jpeg" alt="USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn" />
 <figcaption>USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn</figcaption>
 </figure>MARISSA MEIS USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education heard presentations on Career &amp; Technical Education and Elementary Art at their meeting on Monday.February is Career &amp; Technical Education Month, and student officers from Hutchinson Career &amp; Technical Education Academy presented to board members on the various career pathways that HCTEA offers. The new Geometry in Construction course presented on the importance of practical application of learning in a classroom setting.&nbsp;Kylie Sampson, Elementary Art Teacher, also presented to board members on the importance of art education at the elementary level. Sampson shared that March is Youth Art Month, and students have been working on projects throughout the year to practice different skills. She shared a video of students sharing their projects and telling the reasons they enjoy learning about art at school.The Board also approved the 2023-2024 calendar. The calendar has K-9 starting on Aug. 16, 2023 with 10-12 on Aug. 17 and thanks to being able to shorten winter break, the last day of school is scheduled for May 17, 2024.<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;

USD 308 board hears from HCTEA, approves calendar Monday

Kindergarten and First Grade Preview at CCS Mar. 7

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — USD 308 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson told the Board of Education Monday night that they moved the next meeting of the steering committee up to March 6, which is a Monday.&nbsp;

"It's spring break on the 13th, so I knew a lot of parents would be out of town, so we moved it up one," Johnson said. "During that meeting, there will be a tour of Lincoln. There's about 50 people on the committee, so we don't think they can all fit in at once, so we're going to have a sign up sheet for them to find a time to do that."

The next meeting of the steering committee is hoping to look at the overall themes.

"The big focus of that meeting, I think, is to get back a little bit," Johnson said. "Some people have been talking about making sure that they understand our why. We really just kind of jumped into it last time with introductions. We now have an opportunity to set up an executive committee as well, with some groups from that. Some of the board will meet with Schaefer Johnson Cox Frey before the Monday of every meeting."

The hope is to get goals set for each meeting so the larger group can be efficient with their time and accomplish forward movement throughout the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677583970015.jpeg" alt="Lincoln Elementary-Hutchinson USD 308" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln Elementary-Hutchinson USD 308</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — USD 308 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson told the Board of Education Monday night that they moved the next meeting of the steering committee up to March 6, which is a Monday.&nbsp;"It's spring break on the 13th, so I knew a lot of parents would be out of town, so we moved it up one," Johnson said. "During that meeting, there will be a tour of Lincoln. There's about 50 people on the committee, so we don't think they can all fit in at once, so we're going to have a sign up sheet for them to find a time to do that."The next meeting of the steering committee is hoping to look at the overall themes."The big focus of that meeting, I think, is to get back a little bit," Johnson said. "Some people have been talking about making sure that they understand our why. We really just kind of jumped into it last time with introductions. We now have an opportunity to set up an executive committee as well, with some groups from that. Some of the board will meet with Schaefer Johnson Cox Frey before the Monday of every meeting."The hope is to get goals set for each meeting so the larger group can be efficient with their time and accomplish forward movement throughout the year.<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;

Next USD 308 steering committee meeting moved

2/27/2023 11:58 PM-Andrew	James Hufford-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

2/27/2023 7:12 PM-James	Joseph Andres-Failure to Appear

2/27/2023 6:20 PM-Trae	Donavan	Reed-Direct Contempt

2/27/2023 6:10 PM-Leonard	Wayne Landrum-Probation Violation

2/27/2023 4:19 PM-David	Charles	Shadel-Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance	

2/27/2023 2:09 PM-Crystal	Lynn Board-Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime; Probation Violation

2/27/2023 1:41 PM-Christopher	Troy Ford-Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

2/27/2023 1:39 PM-Elisha	LeAnn Bozarth-Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

2/27/2023 9:38 AM-Stephen	Ronald Langa-Viol protection order; Condition of release; Probation Violation

2/27/2023 7:17 AMDiana	Kay Ford	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Failure to Appear

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;——————————————2/27/2023 11:58 PM-Andrew	James Hufford-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body2/27/2023 7:12 PM-James	Joseph Andres-Failure to Appear2/27/2023 6:20 PM-Trae	Donavan	Reed-Direct Contempt2/27/2023 6:10 PM-Leonard	Wayne Landrum-Probation Violation2/27/2023 4:19 PM-David	Charles	Shadel-Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance	2/27/2023 2:09 PM-Crystal	Lynn Board-Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime; Probation Violation2/27/2023 1:41 PM-Christopher	Troy Ford-Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,5002/27/2023 1:39 PM-Elisha	LeAnn Bozarth-Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body2/27/2023 9:38 AM-Stephen	Ronald Langa-Viol protection order; Condition of release; Probation Violation2/27/2023 7:17 AMDiana	Kay Ford	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Failure to Appear

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 2023 Hutch Chamber Awards Night is coming up Thursday, with a reception at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner and program begin through 6:00 p.m.

EAGLE Media &amp; Heartland Credit Union are the presenting sponsors for the event. EAGLE Media Sports Director Glen Grunwald will be the Master of Ceremonies.

Winners will be announced for the following awards:

This award recognizes a young individual under the age of 35 who has distinguished themselves as a leader and role model in our community.

Presented by: Sleep Shoppe &amp; Furniture Gallery

MINORITY/WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS AWARD

This award recognizes a minority or woman-owned, small business that has attained outstanding business achievement and made significant contributions to the local community.  

Presented by: Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

This award recognizes an individual or business that has made a decades-long contribution to Reno County.

Presented by: Midway Motors of Hutchinson

VETERAN-OWNED/SUPPORTING BUSINESS AWARD

This award recognizes a business in our community that is owned by a veteran or supports veterans in a meaningful way.

Small Business of the Year - presented by Chamber Small Business Sponsors

Ambassador of the Year - Presented by ONEOK

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677519205613.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 2023 Hutch Chamber Awards Night is coming up Thursday, with a reception at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner and program begin through 6:00 p.m.EAGLE Media &amp; Heartland Credit Union are the presenting sponsors for the event. EAGLE Media Sports Director Glen Grunwald will be the Master of Ceremonies.Winners will be announced for the following awards:RISING STAR AWARDThis award recognizes a young individual under the age of 35 who has distinguished themselves as a leader and role model in our community.Presented by: Sleep Shoppe &amp; Furniture GalleryMINORITY/WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS AWARDThis award recognizes a minority or woman-owned, small business that has attained outstanding business achievement and made significant contributions to the local community. Presented by: Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep RamLEGACY AWARDThis award recognizes an individual or business that has made a decades-long contribution to Reno County.Presented by: Midway Motors of HutchinsonVETERAN-OWNED/SUPPORTING BUSINESS AWARDThis award recognizes a business in our community that is owned by a veteran or supports veterans in a meaningful way.Presented by: ONEOKSmall Business of the Year - presented by Chamber Small Business SponsorsAmbassador of the Year - Presented by ONEOK<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;

Chamber Awards coming up Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announced on Feb. 27, two K-61 bridges in Hutchinson will be repaired beginning around March 13.

The KDOT project will repair the K-61 bridge 1.2 miles north of the U.S. 50/K-61 junction. It is the first bridge north of Avenue G over the railroad.

The project also will repair the K-61 bridge 1.7 miles north of the U.S. 50/K-61 junction. It is the first bridge north of Avenue A.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677519093376.png" alt="The map shows the approximate project locations, marked in red. [PHOTO: Kansas Department of Transportation]&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The map shows the approximate project locations, marked in red. [PHOTO: Kansas Department of Transportation]&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announced on Feb. 27, two K-61 bridges in Hutchinson will be repaired beginning around March 13.The KDOT project will repair the K-61 bridge 1.2 miles north of the U.S. 50/K-61 junction. It is the first bridge north of Avenue G over the railroad.The project also will repair the K-61 bridge 1.7 miles north of the U.S. 50/K-61 junction. It is the first bridge north of Avenue A.The project will patch the bridge decks and place an overlay on the decks. It also will replace the bridge approach slabs.During the work, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction.The work is expected to be completed around mid-July.Wildcat Construction Co. Inc., of Wichita, is the primary contractor for the $1,765,950 project.For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CTim.Potter%40ks.gov%7C73898deef62b4da09b5608db113661ce%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C638122697504052311%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=LAx%2FM313E%2BNfeh6J6mexjdtF8FgGIXLFKQ4WWfNmeIw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kandrive.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;

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