HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The electric vehicle market is maturing and AAA is releasing a way to help those who might want to buy used EVs know what they are getting into.

"Last year, AAA did a survey that revealed that, of consumers interested in electric vehicles, 25% would purchase used," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Of that group, Millennials at 32% were most likely to consider this option, as AAA, we want consumers who go electric, whether new or used, to be informed and educated."

Many consumers are attracted to the idea of going electric , but worry they will face a steep price tag for a new EV. A used EV may be a more feasible option for buyers concerned about cost or those looking to add a second car to their household.

"We go into the basic background of electric vehicles, driving range and charging, used EV ownership cost comparisons compared to gas powered vehicles. A lot of good information to help in that decision."

A continuing concern at this point is public charging infrastructure if you need to make a long trip.

"That's been one of the concerns for consumers as we've surveyed them over the years is the range of vehicles, but also, where do I charge my vehicle if I'm going on a road trip?" Steward said. "We have some resources available, our TripTik travel planner provides public charging information along any route that you map out. Our AAA Tour Book guides include hotels that offer charging for guests as you are traveling."

For consumers looking to save significantly on fuel costs, AAA surveys note that EV owners have the potential to save $8,000 or more over five years.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675780781512.jpeg" alt="AAAEVGuide.jpg" />
 <figcaption>AAAEVGuide.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The electric vehicle market is maturing and AAA is releasing a way to help those who might want to buy used EVs know what they are getting into."Last year, AAA did a survey that revealed that, of consumers interested in electric vehicles, 25% would purchase used," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Of that group, Millennials at 32% were most likely to consider this option, as AAA, we want consumers who go electric, whether new or used, to be informed and educated."Many consumers are attracted to the idea of going electric , but worry they will face a steep price tag for a new EV. A used EV may be a more feasible option for buyers concerned about cost or those looking to add a second car to their household."We go into the basic background of electric vehicles, driving range and charging, used EV ownership cost comparisons compared to gas powered vehicles. A lot of good information to help in that decision."A continuing concern at this point is public charging infrastructure if you need to make a long trip."That's been one of the concerns for consumers as we've surveyed them over the years is the range of vehicles, but also, where do I charge my vehicle if I'm going on a road trip?" Steward said. "We have some resources available, our TripTik travel planner provides public charging information along any route that you map out. Our AAA Tour Book guides include hotels that offer charging for guests as you are traveling."For consumers looking to save significantly on fuel costs, AAA surveys note that EV owners have the potential to save $8,000 or more over five years.<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;

AAA releasing used EV buyer's guide

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The Expressives and Harmonics choirs at Hutchinson High School will travel to perform Singing Valentines on Valentine’s Day.

The HHS choir groups will travel to perform special serenades on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. Singing Valentines are available to the public, and are $20 each.&nbsp;

“We do the Singing Valentines as our annual fundraiser by using our talents to help others share a personal valentine with their someone special.&nbsp; We will go to the person and give them one single red rose as we sing a special song for them. The groups love to sing out in public,” said Roger Wilson, Choir Director at Hutchinson High School.&nbsp;

To schedule a Singing Valentine, please contact Roger Wilson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wilson.roger@usd308.com">wilson.roger@usd308.com</a>, or call 785-406-0370.

<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/2023/2/1675700835090.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MARISSA MEIS USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The Expressives and Harmonics choirs at Hutchinson High School will travel to perform Singing Valentines on Valentine’s Day.The HHS choir groups will travel to perform special serenades on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. Singing Valentines are available to the public, and are $20 each.&nbsp;“We do the Singing Valentines as our annual fundraiser by using our talents to help others share a personal valentine with their someone special.&nbsp; We will go to the person and give them one single red rose as we sing a special song for them. The groups love to sing out in public,” said Roger Wilson, Choir Director at Hutchinson High School.&nbsp;To schedule a Singing Valentine, please contact Roger Wilson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wilson.roger@usd308.com">wilson.roger@usd308.com</a>, or call 785-406-0370.<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;

HHS choirs offer Singing Valentines

MCPHERSON, Kan. — The Civic Awareness Committee of the McPherson Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2023 Legislative Update on Saturday, February 18th at 9:00 a.m. at Kansas Municipal Utilities at 2090 E Ave. A. for the opportunity to hear from area state legislators.&nbsp;

Planning to attend are Kansas Senator Richard Wilborn (District 35), Kansas Representatives Les Mason (73rd District), Paul Waggoner (104th District), and Stephen Owens (74th District).

The Legislative Update will begin with time to hear from the Representatives and Senator about important activity in the state legislature, and what they are working to accomplish in their committees. The audience will then have the opportunity to ask questions.

The Legislative Update is free and open to the public. It will also be available on the McPherson Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

<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/2023/2/1675764985859.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — The Civic Awareness Committee of the McPherson Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2023 Legislative Update on Saturday, February 18th at 9:00 a.m. at Kansas Municipal Utilities at 2090 E Ave. A. for the opportunity to hear from area state legislators.&nbsp;Planning to attend are Kansas Senator Richard Wilborn (District 35), Kansas Representatives Les Mason (73rd District), Paul Waggoner (104th District), and Stephen Owens (74th District).The Legislative Update will begin with time to hear from the Representatives and Senator about important activity in the state legislature, and what they are working to accomplish in their committees. The audience will then have the opportunity to ask questions.The Legislative Update is free and open to the public. It will also be available on the McPherson Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.<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;

McPherson Chamber to host Legislative Update Feb. 18

LINDSBORG, Kan. — Award-winning journalist, author, professor, and lawyer Deirdre Mask will be coming to Bethany College on April 11.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Described as "a writer, lawyer, and sometimes academic," Mask will discuss her book, 'The Address Book: What street addresses reveal about identity, race, wealth and power.'&nbsp;&nbsp;

In this wide-ranging book, Mask explores the fate of streets named after Martin Luther King, Jr., the wayfinding means of ancient Romans, and how Nazis haunt the streets of modern Germany. &nbsp;

She also reveals what not having an address means for millions of people worldwide, whether in the slums of Kolkata or the parks of London. &nbsp;

Filled with fascinating people and histories, "The Address Book" illuminates the often-hidden stories behind street addresses and their power to decide who counts, who doesn't, and why. &nbsp;

Rachel Finnell, Assistant Professor of Political Science, will lead a community book study and guided conversation prior to Mask's lecture. &nbsp;

“’The Address Book' is a provocative project that asks questions that impact us all -most importantly, what is the significance of an address? I was moved by this simple question that, before this book, I had never thought about. Dierdre Mask inspired me to look at my place in the space around me in a more curious way,” Finnell said.&nbsp;“This book transformed me in ways that I hope it does for others.”&nbsp;

Diedre Mask will be at Bethany College at 7 p.m. on April 11.&nbsp;

The study with Rachel Finnell will take place in Wallerstedt Library on the campus of Bethany College on the following Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. on March 1, 8, 22, and 29. &nbsp;

For more information, contact the Office of Advancement and Alumni Engagement at Bethany College at (785) 227-3380 extension 8270 or email <a href="mailto:alumni@bethanylb.edu" target="_blank">alumni@bethanylb.edu.</a> &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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675707534807.png" alt="Deirdre Mask will talk about her book,&nbsp;'The Address Book: What street addresses reveal about identity, race, wealth and power' at Bethany College. [Submitted Photo: Bethany College]" />
 <figcaption>Deirdre Mask will talk about her book,&nbsp;'The Address Book: What street addresses reveal about identity, race, wealth and power' at Bethany College. [Submitted Photo: Bethany College]</figcaption>
 </figure>LINDSBORG, Kan. — Award-winning journalist, author, professor, and lawyer Deirdre Mask will be coming to Bethany College on April 11.&nbsp;&nbsp;Described as "a writer, lawyer, and sometimes academic," Mask will discuss her book, 'The Address Book: What street addresses reveal about identity, race, wealth and power.'&nbsp;&nbsp;In this wide-ranging book, Mask explores the fate of streets named after Martin Luther King, Jr., the wayfinding means of ancient Romans, and how Nazis haunt the streets of modern Germany. &nbsp;She also reveals what not having an address means for millions of people worldwide, whether in the slums of Kolkata or the parks of London. &nbsp;Filled with fascinating people and histories, "The Address Book" illuminates the often-hidden stories behind street addresses and their power to decide who counts, who doesn't, and why. &nbsp;Rachel Finnell, Assistant Professor of Political Science, will lead a community book study and guided conversation prior to Mask's lecture. &nbsp;“’The Address Book' is a provocative project that asks questions that impact us all -most importantly, what is the significance of an address? I was moved by this simple question that, before this book, I had never thought about. Dierdre Mask inspired me to look at my place in the space around me in a more curious way,” Finnell said.&nbsp;“This book transformed me in ways that I hope it does for others.”&nbsp;Diedre Mask will be at Bethany College at 7 p.m. on April 11.&nbsp;The study with Rachel Finnell will take place in Wallerstedt Library on the campus of Bethany College on the following Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. on March 1, 8, 22, and 29. &nbsp;For more information, contact the Office of Advancement and Alumni Engagement at Bethany College at (785) 227-3380 extension 8270 or email <a href="mailto:alumni@bethanylb.edu" target="_blank">alumni@bethanylb.edu.</a> &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;

Bethany College to host Deirdre Mask

PLEASANTVIEW, Kan. — The annual SHARE Haiti Benefit Auction raised $160,000 Friday night in Pleasantview. 

The school that the auction supports in Cotes de Fer, Haiti now has students in 5th grade after gaining a grade for the oldest students each year. 

The school has 320 students and around 30 total employees including teachers and support staff. This was the 15th year for the auction.

You can find out how to support the school at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharehaiti">SHARE Haiti Facebook page</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/2020/2/1581090023013.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PLEASANTVIEW, Kan. — The annual SHARE Haiti Benefit Auction raised $160,000 Friday night in Pleasantview. The school that the auction supports in Cotes de Fer, Haiti now has students in 5th grade after gaining a grade for the oldest students each year. The school has 320 students and around 30 total employees including teachers and support staff. This was the 15th year for the auction.You can find out how to support the school at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharehaiti">SHARE Haiti Facebook page</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;

SHARE Haiti auction raises $160,000

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The HutchCC Board of Trustees will update the school's policy for nursing mothers as part of its agenda Thursday.

The policy was last amended in 2016 and was enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act.

The policy includes reasonable time to express milk at work. According to the policy, employees should use usual break and meal periods for expressing milk, when possible. If additional time is needed beyond the provided breaks, employees may use personal leave or may make up the time as negotiated with their supervisors.

Employees and students will also be provided with a private place, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from co-workers and the public, to express breast milk. 

No employee shall be discriminated against for breastfeeding or expressing milk during the work period, and reasonable efforts will be made to assist employees in meeting their infant feeding goals while at work.

Any act found to be intentional that invades a nursing mother’s privacy shall be treated as a disciplinary offense and reported to the appropriate supervisor.

Hutchinson Community College will Maintain the cleanliness of the room or location set aside for the use of employees and students expressing breast milk while on campus.

Notify employees returning to work following the birth of a child of their rights under the national worksite lactation accommodation law in the U.S. Patient Affordable Care Act. This notice may either be provided individually to affected employees or to all employees through college communications.

Breastfeeding persons utilizing lactation support services will give supervisors advance notice of the need for lactation accommodations, preferably prior to their return to work or school following the birth of the child. This will allow supervisors the opportunity to establish a location and work out scheduling issues.

Maintain the designated area by wiping all used surfaces with microbial wipes so the area is clean for the next user.

Students may inquire at the Information Counter, main floor of the Parker Student Union, about locations and contact persons.

McPherson Center - Room #123 - Contact Secretary at 620-245-0202

Sports Arena - Located near the SE ramp - The room does not have a number

Pioneer - Contact Secretary at 620=728-4401

Building 12 - Contact number is 620-665-3408

Cosmetology Building - In the process of designating an area

Stringer Fine Arts – Dressing Room # 148 or #147 – Contact Secretary – 620.665.3503

Shears Technology Center – Conference Room # 107 – Contact Secretary – 620.728.8104

Lockman Hall/Parker Student Union – Human Resource Conference Room – Contact HR Administrative Assistant – 620.665.3495

Newton Axtell Center – Conference Room - Contact Secretary at 316.283.7000

Science Hall - Conference Rm A – Contact Secretary – 620.665.3533

Fire Science – Contact Administrative Assistant – 620.728.4460

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The HutchCC Board of Trustees will update the school's policy for nursing mothers as part of its agenda Thursday.The policy was last amended in 2016 and was enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act.The policy includes reasonable time to express milk at work. According to the policy, employees should use usual break and meal periods for expressing milk, when possible. If additional time is needed beyond the provided breaks, employees may use personal leave or may make up the time as negotiated with their supervisors.Employees and students will also be provided with a private place, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from co-workers and the public, to express breast milk. No employee shall be discriminated against for breastfeeding or expressing milk during the work period, and reasonable efforts will be made to assist employees in meeting their infant feeding goals while at work.Any act found to be intentional that invades a nursing mother’s privacy shall be treated as a disciplinary offense and reported to the appropriate supervisor.Hutchinson Community College will Maintain the cleanliness of the room or location set aside for the use of employees and students expressing breast milk while on campus.Notify employees returning to work following the birth of a child of their rights under the national worksite lactation accommodation law in the U.S. Patient Affordable Care Act. This notice may either be provided individually to affected employees or to all employees through college communications.Breastfeeding persons utilizing lactation support services will give supervisors advance notice of the need for lactation accommodations, preferably prior to their return to work or school following the birth of the child. This will allow supervisors the opportunity to establish a location and work out scheduling issues.Maintain the designated area by wiping all used surfaces with microbial wipes so the area is clean for the next user.Students may inquire at the Information Counter, main floor of the Parker Student Union, about locations and contact persons.Proposed lactation locations:McPherson Center - Room #123 - Contact Secretary at 620-245-0202Rimmer - Room 101Sports Arena - Located near the SE ramp - The room does not have a numberPioneer - Contact Secretary at 620=728-4401Building 12 - Contact number is 620-665-3408Davis Hall - Room 12Cosmetology Building - In the process of designating an areaStringer Fine Arts – Dressing Room # 148 or #147 – Contact Secretary – 620.665.3503Shears Technology Center – Conference Room # 107 – Contact Secretary – 620.728.8104Lockman Hall/Parker Student Union – Human Resource Conference Room – Contact HR Administrative Assistant – 620.665.3495Newton Axtell Center – Conference Room - Contact Secretary at 316.283.7000Science Hall - Conference Rm A – Contact Secretary – 620.665.3533Fire Science – Contact Administrative Assistant – 620.728.4460<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;

HutchCC BOT to update lactation policy at Thursday meeting

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;

2/7/2023 12:22 AM-Roger	Leroy Nun Jr.-Viol protection order; Condition of release

2/6/2023 11:47 PM-Zachary	Scott Reimer-DWS; 1st conviction; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage

2/6/2023 11:36 PM-Brandy	Rochelle Davis-Failure to Appear

2/6/2023 10:53 PM-Kacee	Charlene Probst-Failure to Appear

2/6/2023 8:24 PM-James	Lytel Witt-Viol protection order; Stalking/sex asslt/hmn traf

2/6/2023 7:35 PM-Richard	Andrew Petty-Viol protection order; Ext stalk/sex aslt/hmn traf

2/6/2023 6:48 PM-Heather	Rachelle Taylor-Reckless Driving

2/6/2023 6:41 PM-Brandy	Rochelle Davis-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

2/6/2023 5:36 PM-Carlos	Eduardo	Garcia-Probation Violation

2/6/2023 4:55 PM-Jayden	Matthew	Leffel Adams-Direct Contempt

2/6/2023 4:08 PM-Ashlyee	Nichole Hiebert-Probation Violation

2/6/2023 4:07 PM-Tia	Renee	McKenna-Probation Violation

2/6/2023 8:49 AM-Adrian	Agundis-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;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2/7/2023 12:22 AM-Roger	Leroy Nun Jr.-Viol protection order; Condition of release2/6/2023 11:47 PM-Zachary	Scott Reimer-DWS; 1st conviction; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage2/6/2023 11:36 PM-Brandy	Rochelle Davis-Failure to Appear2/6/2023 10:53 PM-Kacee	Charlene Probst-Failure to Appear2/6/2023 8:24 PM-James	Lytel Witt-Viol protection order; Stalking/sex asslt/hmn traf2/6/2023 7:35 PM-Richard	Andrew Petty-Viol protection order; Ext stalk/sex aslt/hmn traf2/6/2023 6:48 PM-Heather	Rachelle Taylor-Reckless Driving2/6/2023 6:41 PM-Brandy	Rochelle Davis-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body2/6/2023 5:36 PM-Carlos	Eduardo	Garcia-Probation Violation2/6/2023 4:55 PM-Jayden	Matthew	Leffel Adams-Direct Contempt2/6/2023 4:08 PM-Ashlyee	Nichole Hiebert-Probation Violation2/6/2023 4:07 PM-Tia	Renee	McKenna-Probation Violation2/6/2023 8:49 AM-Adrian	Agundis-Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

HARVEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2 p.m. Monday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by a juvenile was westbound at 431 Victoria Road in Newton.

As the van began turning into the parking lot it struck a bicyclist identified as 22-year-old Nicolas Ybarra of Newton.

After impact, the cyclist and bike came to rest in the grass and on the drive next to the van. EMS transported&nbsp;Ybarra to Newton Medical Center. The KHP released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621026328316.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2 p.m. Monday in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by a juvenile was westbound at 431 Victoria Road in Newton.As the van began turning into the parking lot it struck a bicyclist identified as 22-year-old Nicolas Ybarra of Newton.After impact, the cyclist and bike came to rest in the grass and on the drive next to the van. EMS transported&nbsp;Ybarra to Newton Medical Center. The KHP released no additional details.

Juvenile driving a van strikes bicyclist in Newton

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Mayor Jon Richardson is looking forward to having a five member City Council again after Tuesday's installation of Stacy Goss and Stuart Conklin. The process in the meeting where they were chosen went the way he intended for it to.

"We were fortunate, we had 17 people reach out as part of the community to be on City Council," Richardson said. "We could only choose two. It was important to me to have a decision where we were basing it on the top reasons to choose someone, rather than running people through there one by one and saying this person's not right for the role because of XYZ."

Richardson doesn't expect everyone on the council to agree, even with the new members.

"It's not necessarily having someone up there that's going to agree with our personal opinions, as much as it is having someone on city council that will bring their own strengths to it," Richardson said. "Also, we need to function well as a team of five that don't agree with each other all the time."

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

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Mayor Jon Richardson is looking forward to having a five member City Council again after Tuesday's installation of Stacy Goss and Stuart Conklin. The process in the meeting where they were chosen went the way he intended for it to."We were fortunate, we had 17 people reach out as part of the community to be on City Council," Richardson said. "We could only choose two. It was important to me to have a decision where we were basing it on the top reasons to choose someone, rather than running people through there one by one and saying this person's not right for the role because of XYZ."Richardson doesn't expect everyone on the council to agree, even with the new members."It's not necessarily having someone up there that's going to agree with our personal opinions, as much as it is having someone on city council that will bring their own strengths to it," Richardson said. "Also, we need to function well as a team of five that don't agree with each other all the time."The Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday at 9 a.m. at City Hall.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&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; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Richardson: Process went well in choosing new members

<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als">Content courtesy Rally for Rusty Hilst GoFundMe</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A long time fixture in Hutchinson USD 308 and on the air on Eagle Radio, former Sports Director Rusty Hilst, has been diagnosed with ALS. 

This happened just around the time of Rusty’s 80th birthday. Family was notified at the holidays.

Time is of the essence since Rusty and his family have been told that he has bulbar onset ALS. In bulbar ALS the muscles involved in breathing, speaking, and swallowing are affected first.

For more information and updates on Rusty's condition, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089066334953" target="_blank">Rally for Rusty Hilst Facebook page</a>

Anyone who is able to help can give at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als">https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als</a>

The initial goal is to raise $125,000 that will cover his medical prescription co-pay, the cost of renovations to his home to make it wheelchair accessible and other anticipated expenses.

Dr. Chris Rodgers, a close friend of Rusty’s in Hutchinson, wrote the following summary of ALS and requested that Hutch Post promote this story.

"Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease," Rodgers said. "The cause is unknown. It attacks the nerves that control voluntary muscles—the ones we control for activities of daily life. As the disease progresses and the nerves die, victims lose strength and eventually the ability to move arms, legs, body or even control breathing. In most cases, the mental function remains normal with sharp clear minds in many cases.” Anyone who knows Russell “Rusty” Hilst, knows that his entire life has consisted of giving back, a life of service to his church, to his teaching profession and to youth. Born in Meade, Kansas, Rusty is a Hutchinson High School graduate and a lifelong resident of that central Kansas community.

He’s been a revered math teacher at Hutchinson High School and The Voice of the Hutchinson Salthawks and Hutchinson Blue Dragons for more than half a century.&nbsp; Hilst has been involved in coaching and promoting junior golf in Kansas for more than four decades. 

Dr. Rodgers says the average life expectancy after an ALS diagnosis is 2 to 4 years, but it is variable and hard to predict. Until recently there have been almost no effective treatments, but in the fall of 2022, the FDA approved the use of a new drug, RELYVRIO, which can delay the progression of the disease.

RELYVRIO is available but extremely expensive with co-pays near $50,000 annually even for insured patients. The <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als">GoFundMe campaign</a> will help with the cost of this drug and cover other medical and home conversion expenses.

For more information and testimonials from those who care for Rusty, go to his <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als">GoFundMe page</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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675703434536.jpeg" alt="Rusty Hilst" />
 <figcaption>Rusty Hilst</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als">Content courtesy Rally for Rusty Hilst GoFundMe</a>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A long time fixture in Hutchinson USD 308 and on the air on Eagle Radio, former Sports Director Rusty Hilst, has been diagnosed with ALS. This happened just around the time of Rusty’s 80th birthday. Family was notified at the holidays.Time is of the essence since Rusty and his family have been told that he has bulbar onset ALS. In bulbar ALS the muscles involved in breathing, speaking, and swallowing are affected first. For more information and updates on Rusty's condition, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089066334953" target="_blank">Rally for Rusty Hilst Facebook page</a> <figure>
 <img src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/70917333_1675617762305854_r." alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone who is able to help can give at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als">https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als</a> The initial goal is to raise $125,000 that will cover his medical prescription co-pay, the cost of renovations to his home to make it wheelchair accessible and other anticipated expenses.Dr. Chris Rodgers, a close friend of Rusty’s in Hutchinson, wrote the following summary of ALS and requested that Hutch Post promote this story."Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease," Rodgers said. "The cause is unknown. It attacks the nerves that control voluntary muscles—the ones we control for activities of daily life. As the disease progresses and the nerves die, victims lose strength and eventually the ability to move arms, legs, body or even control breathing. In most cases, the mental function remains normal with sharp clear minds in many cases.” Anyone who knows Russell “Rusty” Hilst, knows that his entire life has consisted of giving back, a life of service to his church, to his teaching profession and to youth. Born in Meade, Kansas, Rusty is a Hutchinson High School graduate and a lifelong resident of that central Kansas community. He’s been a revered math teacher at Hutchinson High School and The Voice of the Hutchinson Salthawks and Hutchinson Blue Dragons for more than half a century.&nbsp; Hilst has been involved in coaching and promoting junior golf in Kansas for more than four decades. Dr. Rodgers says the average life expectancy after an ALS diagnosis is 2 to 4 years, but it is variable and hard to predict. Until recently there have been almost no effective treatments, but in the fall of 2022, the FDA approved the use of a new drug, RELYVRIO, which can delay the progression of the disease. RELYVRIO is available but extremely expensive with co-pays near $50,000 annually even for insured patients. The <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als">GoFundMe campaign</a> will help with the cost of this drug and cover other medical and home conversion expenses. For more information and testimonials from those who care for Rusty, go to his <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/rally-for-rusty-hilst-vs-als">GoFundMe page</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;

Hilst diagnosed with ALS, family and friends raising funds

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Administrator Randy Partington said that the Board of County Commissioners has scheduled a work session for Tuesday morning. They are going to talk about two main topics.

"One topic is the shooting range that the Sheriff's Office has been working on for the past couple of years at the landfill," Partington said. "They'll kind of give an overview of what the project looks like. The county commission had contracted with Hutton Construction last year to develop some plans and get some ideas. We've worked with Hutton. Now we have some preliminary plans of what we could do out there. This meeting is to kind of go over all those details, have the Sheriff's Office kind of explain all the partners and how this would be a benefit to, not only Reno County but the region for training and kind of get a feel for how much more the commission wants us to go on this project. Is it going to be tabled, or are they going to work on it and how comfortable they are, before we bring it to a commission meeting to kind of set the budget and move forward."

Another topic is the Yoder and HABIT sewer districts project. That's been in the works for a while, as well.

"Since, I believe 2018 or 2019, there has been some issues at those two districts for their sewer systems," Partington said. "We've been working on a plan. Of course, there was a change in staffing at the County Administrator position and the Public Works Director position. It took Don Brittain and I a little bit of time to get everything put together again. We're going to explain that process to the commissioners. The three new ones have not seen this yet. We need to give them a plan. Here's what we need to do. Two years ago, it was a $3 million project. We haven't paid an engineer's company to reevaluate the numbers. We don't know, is it going to be $5 million, $4 million. This is only for about 101 users. We kind of want to go over this and keep the commission informed of what the project is and kind of get some general consensus of the direction they want to go."

The work session will follow the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners. The open meeting will start Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629300596422.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Administrator Randy Partington said that the Board of County Commissioners has scheduled a work session for Tuesday morning. They are going to talk about two main topics."One topic is the shooting range that the Sheriff's Office has been working on for the past couple of years at the landfill," Partington said. "They'll kind of give an overview of what the project looks like. The county commission had contracted with Hutton Construction last year to develop some plans and get some ideas. We've worked with Hutton. Now we have some preliminary plans of what we could do out there. This meeting is to kind of go over all those details, have the Sheriff's Office kind of explain all the partners and how this would be a benefit to, not only Reno County but the region for training and kind of get a feel for how much more the commission wants us to go on this project. Is it going to be tabled, or are they going to work on it and how comfortable they are, before we bring it to a commission meeting to kind of set the budget and move forward."Another topic is the Yoder and HABIT sewer districts project. That's been in the works for a while, as well."Since, I believe 2018 or 2019, there has been some issues at those two districts for their sewer systems," Partington said. "We've been working on a plan. Of course, there was a change in staffing at the County Administrator position and the Public Works Director position. It took Don Brittain and I a little bit of time to get everything put together again. We're going to explain that process to the commissioners. The three new ones have not seen this yet. We need to give them a plan. Here's what we need to do. Two years ago, it was a $3 million project. We haven't paid an engineer's company to reevaluate the numbers. We don't know, is it going to be $5 million, $4 million. This is only for about 101 users. We kind of want to go over this and keep the commission informed of what the project is and kind of get some general consensus of the direction they want to go."The work session will follow the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners. The open meeting will start Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.<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;

Partington: Work session Tuesday about large projects

Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher

Six more weeks of winter for 2023. At least that’s the prediction based on a rodent in Pennsylvania.&nbsp; My 7-year-old daughter has recently taken to studying calendars. She can tell you when all of the important and slightly less important days are. She’s also memorized birthdays and does an impressively good job at reminding the rest of us about what a particular day holds. So when she woke up and announced it was Groundhog Day, there was a sense of excitement in the air.&nbsp; While eating breakfast we feverishly switched television channels trying to catch the festivities of the morning live to learn of our future.&nbsp; By the time the kids had to bundle up and head out to their bus stop, my daughter tried to talk me into letting her skip the bus to school so she could watch the revelation unfold in real time. She just had to know what the future would hold. I denied her request to skip the morning bus and told her we’d watch the exciting announcement together on YouTube when she got home that afternoon.&nbsp; By the time I searched for the prognostication that had taken place earlier in the day, I already knew what had been seen and what had been declared but kept that knowledge to myself. As we gathered around my iPad to watch the replay of that morning’s events unfold, you could sense my daughter anxiously awaiting the announcement of her future.&nbsp; We watched as the stage of gathered gentlemen wearing top hats revealed a royal red carpet and scrolls. We cheered with the crowd as they chanted for a groundhog named Phil while a man formally knocked on a tiny, padlocked door at the base of tree stump located on the stage.&nbsp; We waited in anticipation as the groundhog was awakened from his wintery slumber and brought forth from his den to hint at the scroll containing his discovery. The prognostication was revealed when we heard the statement, “I see a shadow upon my stage. No matter how you measure, it’s six more weeks of winter weather.” My daughter refused to accept the prophesy. She argued that she didn’t see his shadow and suggested that the rodent was misguided. In her distraught state, she demanded to watch other videos from that morning that would surely show different angles of the events. She needed better proof. I assured her that taking weather advice from a rodent is not the only way one should plan for the future and challenged her to look around the farm for her own observed signs of spring. And in her brief time of discovery and reflection before dinner she saw three newborn lambs cuddled together in a bed of straw with their mother. She saw how much more space she had to roller skate in the machine shop as we’ve begun to make room for future seed deliveries. And after moving a pile of leaves, she uncovered the tiny tip of a crocus beginning to peek through the soil. Whether we’ll experience more winter weather or not this year, there are definitely hints of another season beginning to appear.&nbsp; And as my daughter learned, we just have to rely less on a soothsaying rodent and keep our own eyes open for other signs of spring.&nbsp; "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancherSix more weeks of winter for 2023. At least that’s the prediction based on a rodent in Pennsylvania.&nbsp; My 7-year-old daughter has recently taken to studying calendars. She can tell you when all of the important and slightly less important days are. She’s also memorized birthdays and does an impressively good job at reminding the rest of us about what a particular day holds. So when she woke up and announced it was Groundhog Day, there was a sense of excitement in the air.&nbsp; While eating breakfast we feverishly switched television channels trying to catch the festivities of the morning live to learn of our future.&nbsp; By the time the kids had to bundle up and head out to their bus stop, my daughter tried to talk me into letting her skip the bus to school so she could watch the revelation unfold in real time. She just had to know what the future would hold. I denied her request to skip the morning bus and told her we’d watch the exciting announcement together on YouTube when she got home that afternoon.&nbsp; By the time I searched for the prognostication that had taken place earlier in the day, I already knew what had been seen and what had been declared but kept that knowledge to myself. As we gathered around my iPad to watch the replay of that morning’s events unfold, you could sense my daughter anxiously awaiting the announcement of her future.&nbsp; We watched as the stage of gathered gentlemen wearing top hats revealed a royal red carpet and scrolls. We cheered with the crowd as they chanted for a groundhog named Phil while a man formally knocked on a tiny, padlocked door at the base of tree stump located on the stage.&nbsp; We waited in anticipation as the groundhog was awakened from his wintery slumber and brought forth from his den to hint at the scroll containing his discovery. The prognostication was revealed when we heard the statement, “I see a shadow upon my stage. No matter how you measure, it’s six more weeks of winter weather.” My daughter refused to accept the prophesy. She argued that she didn’t see his shadow and suggested that the rodent was misguided. In her distraught state, she demanded to watch other videos from that morning that would surely show different angles of the events. She needed better proof. I assured her that taking weather advice from a rodent is not the only way one should plan for the future and challenged her to look around the farm for her own observed signs of spring. And in her brief time of discovery and reflection before dinner she saw three newborn lambs cuddled together in a bed of straw with their mother. She saw how much more space she had to roller skate in the machine shop as we’ve begun to make room for future seed deliveries. And after moving a pile of leaves, she uncovered the tiny tip of a crocus beginning to peek through the soil. Whether we’ll experience more winter weather or not this year, there are definitely hints of another season beginning to appear.&nbsp; And as my daughter learned, we just have to rely less on a soothsaying rodent and keep our own eyes open for other signs of spring.&nbsp; "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2023 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Signs of Spring

NEWTON — City of Newton tree trimming contractor, Alfred’s Tree Service, will&nbsp; trimming in the public rights-of-way next week in the area north of 12th Street.

The work will take several weeks to complete, weather permitting.&nbsp;The contractor will leave door notices for the affected properties at least 24 hours in advance.

This is a free service to Newton residents. 

Two years ago, the City of Newton began bidding out tree trimming services for public rights-of-way to alleviate the burden for property owners. 

The work concentrates on the area designated for street maintenance improvements in the upcoming year.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDYuNzEwNjk3OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5uZXd0b25rYW5zYXMuY29tL0hvbWUvQ29tcG9uZW50cy9OZXdzL05ld3MvMzIxNC8ifQ.FJJOue6khXk4PO96MijxpB4TrJhmLcUWBNWr1JhWa1Y/s/2592705315/br/154034637586-l" target="_blank">Click here for more information</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675695698433.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON — City of Newton tree trimming contractor, Alfred’s Tree Service, will&nbsp; trimming in the public rights-of-way next week in the area north of 12th Street.The work will take several weeks to complete, weather permitting.&nbsp;The contractor will leave door notices for the affected properties at least 24 hours in advance.This is a free service to Newton residents. Two years ago, the City of Newton began bidding out tree trimming services for public rights-of-way to alleviate the burden for property owners. The work concentrates on the area designated for street maintenance improvements in the upcoming year.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDYuNzEwNjk3OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5uZXd0b25rYW5zYXMuY29tL0hvbWUvQ29tcG9uZW50cy9OZXdzL05ld3MvMzIxNC8ifQ.FJJOue6khXk4PO96MijxpB4TrJhmLcUWBNWr1JhWa1Y/s/2592705315/br/154034637586-l" target="_blank">Click here for more information</a>.

Newton tree trimming will start next week

HARVEY COUNTY — Harvey County Commissioners will talk about wind energy regulations at their meeting Tuesday.

According to agenda documents, Harvey County Planning Commission Chairman Justin Stucky presented during citizens' forum on Jan. 31 and requested that a future agenda item be created to discuss Harvey County's wind energy regulations. 

Later in the meeting, Commissioners requested that staff add this item to the agenda for February 7, 2023. 

Justin Stucky will be present Tuesday to answer questions.

After receiving a recommendation from the Planning Commission to update the Harvey County Unified Development Code - Section 16.14 - Commercial Renewable Energy Project, the County Commission considered the recommendations, and on October 13, 2022, adopted Resolution 2022-16 which amended Section 16.14 of the Unified Development Code. 

The changes became effective on October 20, 2022, when published in the official county newspaper.

Any additional changes Section 16.14 - Commercial Renewable Energy Project would require following the regulation amendment process as outlined in Article 2 of the Harvey County Unified Development Code. 

The Board of Harvey County Commissioners will meet Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Harvey County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643395093240.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY — Harvey County Commissioners will talk about wind energy regulations at their meeting Tuesday.According to agenda documents, Harvey County Planning Commission Chairman Justin Stucky presented during citizens' forum on Jan. 31 and requested that a future agenda item be created to discuss Harvey County's wind energy regulations. Later in the meeting, Commissioners requested that staff add this item to the agenda for February 7, 2023. Justin Stucky will be present Tuesday to answer questions.After receiving a recommendation from the Planning Commission to update the Harvey County Unified Development Code - Section 16.14 - Commercial Renewable Energy Project, the County Commission considered the recommendations, and on October 13, 2022, adopted Resolution 2022-16 which amended Section 16.14 of the Unified Development Code. The changes became effective on October 20, 2022, when published in the official county newspaper.Any additional changes Section 16.14 - Commercial Renewable Energy Project would require following the regulation amendment process as outlined in Article 2 of the Harvey County Unified Development Code. The Board of Harvey County Commissioners will meet Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Harvey County Courthouse.<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;

Harvey County commissioners to discuss wind energy regs Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Dr. John Walker with Central Christian School in Hutchinson said the parking lot project is mostly done.

"I'd say the main section of the parking lot is finished," Walker said. "Now, we kind of go into phase two of fundraising, to finish out the parking lot out in front of the preschool area and kind of back where the football area is. We were really blessed to be able to do the main section of the parking lot. As the temperatures get warmer, hopefully soon, we'll be able to do some planting of grass and that kind of thing and really be able to shine up our curb appeal at&nbsp;Central Christian School."

The fundraising work also continues for finishing the inside of the building.

"It's for four academic spaces, four classrooms," Walker said. "It's our Science, Technology and Mathematics wing of our school. We're really excited about that. We've had a generous donor step up and do a match challenge, starting Jan. 1 through March 31, in the amount of $208,000. By God's grace, he's provided around $50,000 toward that match so far, so if there's anyone out there that's interested in partnering with Central Christian School in this way and wants to maximize their donation, we certainly would be blessed by that. The goal again is to have that match by March 31."

Walker knows they need the space, but he believes prospective families are thinking more about what is being taught than the physical plant itself.

"I think a lot of people are more interested in the culture and the teaching from a Biblical worldview," Walker said. "Classrooms are kind of a secondary, tertiary issue. But, it is definitely a blessing for us to be able to show people, look, this is going to be a really nice space."

<a href="https://cc-ks.client.renweb.com/renweb/donateonline/web/System_giving.cfm?District=cc-ks&amp;SchoolCode=">You can donate online here to the FORWARD campaign</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/2023/2/1675423099864.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Dr. John Walker with Central Christian School in Hutchinson said the parking lot project is mostly done."I'd say the main section of the parking lot is finished," Walker said. "Now, we kind of go into phase two of fundraising, to finish out the parking lot out in front of the preschool area and kind of back where the football area is. We were really blessed to be able to do the main section of the parking lot. As the temperatures get warmer, hopefully soon, we'll be able to do some planting of grass and that kind of thing and really be able to shine up our curb appeal at&nbsp;Central Christian School."The fundraising work also continues for finishing the inside of the building."It's for four academic spaces, four classrooms," Walker said. "It's our Science, Technology and Mathematics wing of our school. We're really excited about that. We've had a generous donor step up and do a match challenge, starting Jan. 1 through March 31, in the amount of $208,000. By God's grace, he's provided around $50,000 toward that match so far, so if there's anyone out there that's interested in partnering with Central Christian School in this way and wants to maximize their donation, we certainly would be blessed by that. The goal again is to have that match by March 31."Walker knows they need the space, but he believes prospective families are thinking more about what is being taught than the physical plant itself."I think a lot of people are more interested in the culture and the teaching from a Biblical worldview," Walker said. "Classrooms are kind of a secondary, tertiary issue. But, it is definitely a blessing for us to be able to show people, look, this is going to be a really nice space."<a href="https://cc-ks.client.renweb.com/renweb/donateonline/web/System_giving.cfm?District=cc-ks&amp;SchoolCode=">You can donate online here to the FORWARD campaign</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;

Central Christian School continuing renovations outside and in


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A Central Kansas concealed carry instructor will be holding another class in Hutchinson later this month.

Kansas is both a Constitutional Carry state and an open carry state, but according to a law enacted in 2021, 18, 19 and 20 year old Kansans can carry concealed, if they are otherwise eligible to own firearms and have taken&nbsp;an eight-hour handgun safety and training course, which is commonly known as the Kansas concealed carry class.

Prospective carriers have to apply for a license with the Kansas Attorney General's office and be approved before they can legally carry concealed.

Also, some other states require a license to carry concealed, if you travel into their state.&nbsp;

Contact instructor Mike Jordan at (620) 875-1650 for more information and the fee schedule for the class. The class is scheduled for Feb. 18.

<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/2021/6/1624967812616.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A Central Kansas concealed carry instructor will be holding another class in Hutchinson later this month.Kansas is both a Constitutional Carry state and an open carry state, but according to a law enacted in 2021, 18, 19 and 20 year old Kansans can carry concealed, if they are otherwise eligible to own firearms and have taken&nbsp;an eight-hour handgun safety and training course, which is commonly known as the Kansas concealed carry class.Prospective carriers have to apply for a license with the Kansas Attorney General's office and be approved before they can legally carry concealed.Also, some other states require a license to carry concealed, if you travel into their state.&nbsp;Contact instructor Mike Jordan at (620) 875-1650 for more information and the fee schedule for the class. The class is scheduled for Feb. 18.<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;

Concealed carry class to meet again this month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The home health piece of Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County is about increasing quality of life for those who have lost function and need to get it back so they can stay at home.

"Home health services are vital to those who are coming out of the hospital who have had a fall at home," said Denise Sherman, Director of Clinical Services for&nbsp;Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County. "Going to see their primary care physician, they are just not functioning well any more, but, it's recoverable. That's where our home health services come into play."

After a patient has seen their primary care to get a referral, the goal is to get the patient back as close to normal as they can in their own home.

"We focus on their strength, their balance, their mobility," said&nbsp;Holly Horning,&nbsp;Rehab Services Coordinator. "We bring in physical therapy and occupational therapy. Many people wonder, what is the difference between those two services? The physical therapy side focuses on that ambulation, balance, strength, range of motion. Occupational therapy focuses a lot on the daily activities. The patient's ability to take care of themselves, to perform their self-care activities like getting dressed, going to the bathroom, being able to bathe themselves, being able to prepare a meal or do their own laundry."

For older people, it really is a use it or lose it time of life.

"You lose that sense of independence," Horning said. "You quit functioning. You quit moving in your home. When you do that, you lose your strength and you are at a higher risk of falling. When you experience a fall, you tend to become more fearful of falling and then you tend to move less. That's when we really want physical therapy to come in to work on that strength and balance and confidence in being able to move."

Staff will come in and do an assessment to see what about the environment can change to make it easier to move safely through your home. First, contact your primary care physician and get a full check up, especially if you have had a fall scare, so that they can rule out illness and refer you for home health services.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675527333651.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The home health piece of Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County is about increasing quality of life for those who have lost function and need to get it back so they can stay at home."Home health services are vital to those who are coming out of the hospital who have had a fall at home," said Denise Sherman, Director of Clinical Services for&nbsp;Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County. "Going to see their primary care physician, they are just not functioning well any more, but, it's recoverable. That's where our home health services come into play."After a patient has seen their primary care to get a referral, the goal is to get the patient back as close to normal as they can in their own home."We focus on their strength, their balance, their mobility," said&nbsp;Holly Horning,&nbsp;Rehab Services Coordinator. "We bring in physical therapy and occupational therapy. Many people wonder, what is the difference between those two services? The physical therapy side focuses on that ambulation, balance, strength, range of motion. Occupational therapy focuses a lot on the daily activities. The patient's ability to take care of themselves, to perform their self-care activities like getting dressed, going to the bathroom, being able to bathe themselves, being able to prepare a meal or do their own laundry."For older people, it really is a use it or lose it time of life."You lose that sense of independence," Horning said. "You quit functioning. You quit moving in your home. When you do that, you lose your strength and you are at a higher risk of falling. When you experience a fall, you tend to become more fearful of falling and then you tend to move less. That's when we really want physical therapy to come in to work on that strength and balance and confidence in being able to move."Staff will come in and do an assessment to see what about the environment can change to make it easier to move safely through your home. First, contact your primary care physician and get a full check up, especially if you have had a fall scare, so that they can rule out illness and refer you for home health services.<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;

Home health a key to regaining function

TOPEKA – According to the weekly update from Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy, On Monday, Jan. 30, State Sen. Carolyn McGinn hosted the annual Kansas Passenger Rail Coalition meeting in Topeka. 

The event was attended by legislators, local government officials, and subject matter experts. Presenters and guest speakers included FRA Administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDUuNzEwNDkwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3JhaWxyb2Fkcy5kb3QuZ292L2Fib3V0LWZyYS9vcmdhbml6YXRpb24vYW1pdC1ib3NlLWFkbWluaXN0cmF0b3IifQ.rNCB9XozJGL_PEEVv6lt0OVxFFXkEb4HU3pUiX07OT0/s/2592705315/br/154029015963-l" target="_blank">Amit Bose</a>; Amtrak Government Relations Director Derreck James; and Director of Multimodal Transportation and Innovation at KDOT.

Topics of discussion included the opportunity for the state DOT’s to apply&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDUuNzEwNDkwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jam9ubGluZS5jb20vc3RvcnkvbmV3cy9zdGF0ZS8yMDIxLzExLzA5L3doYXQtZG9lcy0xLXRyaWxsaW9uLWZlZGVyYWwtaW5mcmFzdHJ1Y3R1cmUtYmlsbC1tZWFuLWthbnNhcy1wcmVzaWRlbnQtam9lLWJpZGVuLzYzMzc3ODEwMDEvIn0.Z7FmGxXdg_srpt-cdWRS8ygnctqzcl9KHIWr_rXDtOg/s/2592705315/br/154029015963-l" target="_blank">for federal funding for infrastructure improvements</a>&nbsp;along the long-awaited extension for the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDUuNzEwNDkwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbXRyYWsuY29tL3JvdXRlcy9oZWFydGxhbmQtZmx5ZXItdHJhaW4uaHRtbCJ9.mjw6AUlRdaNurTq-o-uXj2zt2KRHYKGCSR0EtroySK0/s/2592705315/br/154029015963-l" target="_blank">Heartland Flyer</a>&nbsp;long-distance train that currently goes from Fort Worth to Oklahoma City, and could be extended through Wichita to Newton to interconnect with the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDUuNzEwNDkwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbXRyYWsuY29tL3NvdXRod2VzdC1jaGllZi10cmFpbiJ9.M3bdvGihhB-zcq-IOGFJya9j9qfHzJG796Af9vLYwSU/s/2592705315/br/154029015963-l" target="_blank">Southwest Chief</a>.

The last time Oklahoma City and Wichita were connected by passenger rail was in 1979.

<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/2023/2/1675681821306.jpeg" alt="Proposed Route-Courtesy Amtrak" />
 <figcaption>Proposed Route-Courtesy Amtrak</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – According to the weekly update from Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy, On Monday, Jan. 30, State Sen. Carolyn McGinn hosted the annual Kansas Passenger Rail Coalition meeting in Topeka. The event was attended by legislators, local government officials, and subject matter experts. Presenters and guest speakers included FRA Administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDUuNzEwNDkwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3JhaWxyb2Fkcy5kb3QuZ292L2Fib3V0LWZyYS9vcmdhbml6YXRpb24vYW1pdC1ib3NlLWFkbWluaXN0cmF0b3IifQ.rNCB9XozJGL_PEEVv6lt0OVxFFXkEb4HU3pUiX07OT0/s/2592705315/br/154029015963-l" target="_blank">Amit Bose</a>; Amtrak Government Relations Director Derreck James; and Director of Multimodal Transportation and Innovation at KDOT. Topics of discussion included the opportunity for the state DOT’s to apply&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDUuNzEwNDkwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jam9ubGluZS5jb20vc3RvcnkvbmV3cy9zdGF0ZS8yMDIxLzExLzA5L3doYXQtZG9lcy0xLXRyaWxsaW9uLWZlZGVyYWwtaW5mcmFzdHJ1Y3R1cmUtYmlsbC1tZWFuLWthbnNhcy1wcmVzaWRlbnQtam9lLWJpZGVuLzYzMzc3ODEwMDEvIn0.Z7FmGxXdg_srpt-cdWRS8ygnctqzcl9KHIWr_rXDtOg/s/2592705315/br/154029015963-l" target="_blank">for federal funding for infrastructure improvements</a>&nbsp;along the long-awaited extension for the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDUuNzEwNDkwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbXRyYWsuY29tL3JvdXRlcy9oZWFydGxhbmQtZmx5ZXItdHJhaW4uaHRtbCJ9.mjw6AUlRdaNurTq-o-uXj2zt2KRHYKGCSR0EtroySK0/s/2592705315/br/154029015963-l" target="_blank">Heartland Flyer</a>&nbsp;long-distance train that currently goes from Fort Worth to Oklahoma City, and could be extended through Wichita to Newton to interconnect with the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDUuNzEwNDkwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5hbXRyYWsuY29tL3NvdXRod2VzdC1jaGllZi10cmFpbiJ9.M3bdvGihhB-zcq-IOGFJya9j9qfHzJG796Af9vLYwSU/s/2592705315/br/154029015963-l" target="_blank">Southwest Chief</a>. The last time Oklahoma City and Wichita were connected by passenger rail was in 1979.<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;

Momentum continues for Heartland Flyer project

NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Kidron Bethel Village, a life plan campus of Bluestem Communities, will celebrate new and renovated spaces with a dedication event for its Live Forward project at 3 p.m. on Thursday, February 16. A short program and dedication ceremony will kick off the event with self-guided tours of the building to follow.

Parking for the event will be available at Kidron Bethel Village parking lots, surrounding streets and at neighboring Kauffman Museum.

The Live Forward project is a comprehensive $10.7 million endeavor that included new construction and upgrades of existing spaces impacting nearly 50,000 square feet to position Kidron Bethel Village as a place for engagement and connections across the community and generations. Highlights of the project include the new Kaye Penner Education Center, expanded chapel and community gathering space with the addition of Kidron Hall, a modern entry and reception area, improved dining options, outdoor patio and courtyards, a therapeutic indoor/outdoor walking loop that connects three health care neighborhoods and remodeled health care rooms.

“This innovative project is the most significant capital endeavor in Kidron Bethel’s history, and we are excited by the opportunities it creates to connect the campus with the broader community,” said Bluestem Communities President and CEO James Krehbiel.

Many of the spaces were created with the intention to make Kidron Bethel Village a hub for community gathering and engagement. The Kaye Penner Education Center, named in honor of former Kidron Bethel Village resident, board member and longtime nursing professor at neighboring Bethel College, was a partnership with Bethel College to create educational spaces that promote intergenerational interaction by bringing Bethel College students to campus.

Kidron Hall was an addition meant to create a larger chapel and community gathering space to allow for greater numbers of residents and others from the North Newton, Newton and other local communities to gather for events and celebrations.

“We are grateful to be part of such a wonderful and supportive community,” said Krehbiel. “We now have the opportunity to host a wide variety of events that allow residents in all care levels to connect with the wider community.”

Construction on the Live Forward project began in October 2021. The project has been done in phases, so some areas have been completed for some time while others remain in an on-going state. On-going projects include the remodel of all health care rooms and the completion of a new dining option, The Local Table, that is slated to open later this spring.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675438333225.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Kidron Bethel Village, a life plan campus of Bluestem Communities, will celebrate new and renovated spaces with a dedication event for its Live Forward project at 3 p.m. on Thursday, February 16. A short program and dedication ceremony will kick off the event with self-guided tours of the building to follow.Parking for the event will be available at Kidron Bethel Village parking lots, surrounding streets and at neighboring Kauffman Museum.The Live Forward project is a comprehensive $10.7 million endeavor that included new construction and upgrades of existing spaces impacting nearly 50,000 square feet to position Kidron Bethel Village as a place for engagement and connections across the community and generations. Highlights of the project include the new Kaye Penner Education Center, expanded chapel and community gathering space with the addition of Kidron Hall, a modern entry and reception area, improved dining options, outdoor patio and courtyards, a therapeutic indoor/outdoor walking loop that connects three health care neighborhoods and remodeled health care rooms.“This innovative project is the most significant capital endeavor in Kidron Bethel’s history, and we are excited by the opportunities it creates to connect the campus with the broader community,” said Bluestem Communities President and CEO James Krehbiel.Many of the spaces were created with the intention to make Kidron Bethel Village a hub for community gathering and engagement. The Kaye Penner Education Center, named in honor of former Kidron Bethel Village resident, board member and longtime nursing professor at neighboring Bethel College, was a partnership with Bethel College to create educational spaces that promote intergenerational interaction by bringing Bethel College students to campus.Kidron Hall was an addition meant to create a larger chapel and community gathering space to allow for greater numbers of residents and others from the North Newton, Newton and other local communities to gather for events and celebrations.“We are grateful to be part of such a wonderful and supportive community,” said Krehbiel. “We now have the opportunity to host a wide variety of events that allow residents in all care levels to connect with the wider community.”Construction on the Live Forward project began in October 2021. The project has been done in phases, so some areas have been completed for some time while others remain in an on-going state. On-going projects include the remodel of all health care rooms and the completion of a new dining option, The Local Table, that is slated to open later this spring.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kidron Bethel to hold dedication Feb. 16

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss believes that the employment picture is going to be mixed going forward, especially in the Midwest.

"You look at the employment level for Kansas and the region, we're almost back to Feb. 2020, in terms of the employment. That's well below the national number. The national, U.S. economy is well above the Feb. 2020 number. Kansas is about at its 2020 number. We're not back to where we should be, absent the pandemic."

None the less the people Goss surveys aren't as concerned about hiring as he thought they might be.

"I still think we're going to see layoffs in some of the industry," Goss said. "The unemployment rate in Kansas is likely to rise, but not nearly what we thought. In other words, maybe the Federal Reserve is getting a soft landing. That is, a slowdown in growth moving toward zero and perhaps avoiding a negative number."

Our interview with Goss was prior to the Governor's announcement Thursday of a new semiconductor project in Wichita. However, that project still needs federal funding to get off of the ground.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622642233344.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss believes that the employment picture is going to be mixed going forward, especially in the Midwest."You look at the employment level for Kansas and the region, we're almost back to Feb. 2020, in terms of the employment. That's well below the national number. The national, U.S. economy is well above the Feb. 2020 number. Kansas is about at its 2020 number. We're not back to where we should be, absent the pandemic."None the less the people Goss surveys aren't as concerned about hiring as he thought they might be."I still think we're going to see layoffs in some of the industry," Goss said. "The unemployment rate in Kansas is likely to rise, but not nearly what we thought. In other words, maybe the Federal Reserve is getting a soft landing. That is, a slowdown in growth moving toward zero and perhaps avoiding a negative number."Our interview with Goss was prior to the Governor's announcement Thursday of a new semiconductor project in Wichita. However, that project still needs federal funding to get off of the ground.<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;

Goss: Employment likely to be mixed as we go through 2023

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. 

Though it is a smaller part of the bond, upgrades to the playground equipment at the district's elementary schools is part of what will be voted on.

"Regulations have changed over the years," said Buhler Grade School principal Kurt Geilenfeldt. "There's new safety standards. There's new ADA compliance and accessibility standards. We're definitely a little bit behind the curve when it comes to needing some upgrades for our playgrounds."

The accessibility issue means some of the playgrounds will need to move a little.

"From the ground up, we're kind of looking at restructuring how our playgrounds are currently laid out,"&nbsp;Geilenfeldt said. "There's definitely some grading issues and some ground cover issues that we want to take care of. Some of our playgrounds are spaced out quite a bit from where our blacktop areas are. We really want to pull those playground structures in closer to those surfaces, so students with special needs can go right into these playground areas."

They'd like to upgrade to some of the new rubberized surface, if there's money in the budget, but most of it will have to go for actual new equipment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675521034961.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. Though it is a smaller part of the bond, upgrades to the playground equipment at the district's elementary schools is part of what will be voted on."Regulations have changed over the years," said Buhler Grade School principal Kurt Geilenfeldt. "There's new safety standards. There's new ADA compliance and accessibility standards. We're definitely a little bit behind the curve when it comes to needing some upgrades for our playgrounds."The accessibility issue means some of the playgrounds will need to move a little."From the ground up, we're kind of looking at restructuring how our playgrounds are currently laid out,"&nbsp;Geilenfeldt said. "There's definitely some grading issues and some ground cover issues that we want to take care of. Some of our playgrounds are spaced out quite a bit from where our blacktop areas are. We really want to pull those playground structures in closer to those surfaces, so students with special needs can go right into these playground areas."They'd like to upgrade to some of the new rubberized surface, if there's money in the budget, but most of it will have to go for actual new equipment."We're definitely looking at what structures and what play surfaces are the most appropriate for our playgrounds, and of course, that's going to cause us to need to upgrade the actual equipment, as well."The board is shooting for $800,000 to $850,000 of the $8 million bond to be able to be used for the playgrounds portion of the project.<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;