HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners is letting two of its members take a closer look at the courthouse interior projects on the lower floors in an effort to control costs for a project that was originally budgeted at&nbsp;$1.2 million. The lone bidder on the project, Ward Davis Builders, bid $2.126 million. There is a clear majority in favor of the work on the DA's area.

That portion of the project would take space on the 5th floor currently used for storage in an area that was the courthouse's original jail area and renovate for office space and a conference room to allow for all of the DA's staff to be on the same floor. The rest of the project is still going to get a closer look.

"What we could do is ask a couple of commissioners to kind of committee this a little bit?" said chair Daniel Friesen.

The consensus was to allow commissioner Ron Hirst and commissioner Don Bogner to take a closer look at the details with County Administrator Randy Partington and Harlen Depew and come back with a different scope of work in a few weeks. Once the overall scope is decided, Ward Davis said it would still take time to get done.

"I would ask for in the neighborhood of 12 months," Davis said. "Could we do it in nine? Perhaps. I'd like a few months to get the stuff planned, get the submittals and get stuff bought. It's kind of a little complicated just to start next month or something, I've got other projects I've got to get done. It wouldn't be good to start a project until I can really hit it hard."

The courthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674575342122.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners is letting two of its members take a closer look at the courthouse interior projects on the lower floors in an effort to control costs for a project that was originally budgeted at&nbsp;$1.2 million. The lone bidder on the project, Ward Davis Builders, bid $2.126 million. There is a clear majority in favor of the work on the DA's area.That portion of the project would take space on the 5th floor currently used for storage in an area that was the courthouse's original jail area and renovate for office space and a conference room to allow for all of the DA's staff to be on the same floor. The rest of the project is still going to get a closer look."What we could do is ask a couple of commissioners to kind of committee this a little bit?" said chair Daniel Friesen.The consensus was to allow commissioner Ron Hirst and commissioner Don Bogner to take a closer look at the details with County Administrator Randy Partington and Harlen Depew and come back with a different scope of work in a few weeks. Once the overall scope is decided, Ward Davis said it would still take time to get done."I would ask for in the neighborhood of 12 months," Davis said. "Could we do it in nine? Perhaps. I'd like a few months to get the stuff planned, get the submittals and get stuff bought. It's kind of a little complicated just to start next month or something, I've got other projects I've got to get done. It wouldn't be good to start a project until I can really hit it hard."The courthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places.<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;

Interior courthouse project scope to be looked at by Hirst, Bogner

MCPHERSON COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Canton Police Department are conducting a homicide investigation after a woman was found dead outside her home in Canton, Kansas.

The Canton Police Department requested KBI assistance just before 4 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 23. KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team (CSRT) responded to the scene.

On Monday, Jan. 23, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Canton Police Department received a 911 call indicating a female subject was unresponsive at 110 W. Allen St. in Canton. When officers arrived they located 52-year-old Briana L. Lance deceased in the back yard. They observed signs of injury and trauma to Lance, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The McPherson County Sheriff’s Office and the McPherson Police Department joined the homicide investigation. The investigation led to a suspect being identified and located.

At approximately 5:40 p.m., Hayden C. Lance, 18, of Canton, was arrested for second-degree murder connected to the death of his mother, Briana Lance. He was booked into the McPherson County Jail.

Formal charges are pending, and are expected to come from the McPherson County Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The investigation is ongoing. Nothing further will be released at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674578053875.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Canton Police Department are conducting a homicide investigation after a woman was found dead outside her home in Canton, Kansas.The Canton Police Department requested KBI assistance just before 4 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 23. KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team (CSRT) responded to the scene.On Monday, Jan. 23, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Canton Police Department received a 911 call indicating a female subject was unresponsive at 110 W. Allen St. in Canton. When officers arrived they located 52-year-old Briana L. Lance deceased in the back yard. They observed signs of injury and trauma to Lance, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.The McPherson County Sheriff’s Office and the McPherson Police Department joined the homicide investigation. The investigation led to a suspect being identified and located.At approximately 5:40 p.m., Hayden C. Lance, 18, of Canton, was arrested for second-degree murder connected to the death of his mother, Briana Lance. He was booked into the McPherson County Jail.Formal charges are pending, and are expected to come from the McPherson County Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.The investigation is ongoing. Nothing further will be released at this time.

Canton man arrested in connection with his mother's death

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday approved the land purchase for a new fire station site in Turon. One of the main issues, along with the current building not being weather tight, is that new apparatus are too large for the building. More than one commissioner noted that while talking about the land purchase.

"With all the equipment and the size necessary to meet the requirements, they are just too big, too large to fit in the normal length that the old buildings are," said Commissioner Ron Hirst. "This is about 16 miles from Arlington, give or take a mile or two. To have a station out there is pretty important, I think."

The district has been planning to build a new station and a few years ago, the large lot on the southeast corner of Burns and Chicago was for sale. The commission agreed to let the fire district purchase the land for $5000, though Commissioner Daniel Friesen thinks that maybe a larger discussion on how to do fire coverage across the county might be needed soon.

"At some point, I think we need a strategic plan on maybe consolidating some of the districts out west, understanding how much is structure fire versus wildland fire," Friesen said. "Maybe, considering if we consolidate, having a paid professional team out there. I know this is a sensitive topic for rural parts of our county and those that volunteer. This is not anything against them. It's just over time, I have seen certain districts have strong leadership, strong volunteerism and over time, that can change and it kind of ebbs and flows a little bit."

Right now, Turon has that strong department. Friesen's concern is what happens if that changes, but since the only issue in front of them was the land purchase on Tuesday, the commissioners all agreed that buying the lot was something they would allow the fire district to do.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674576940458.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday approved the land purchase for a new fire station site in Turon. One of the main issues, along with the current building not being weather tight, is that new apparatus are too large for the building. More than one commissioner noted that while talking about the land purchase."With all the equipment and the size necessary to meet the requirements, they are just too big, too large to fit in the normal length that the old buildings are," said Commissioner Ron Hirst. "This is about 16 miles from Arlington, give or take a mile or two. To have a station out there is pretty important, I think."The district has been planning to build a new station and a few years ago, the large lot on the southeast corner of Burns and Chicago was for sale. The commission agreed to let the fire district purchase the land for $5000, though Commissioner Daniel Friesen thinks that maybe a larger discussion on how to do fire coverage across the county might be needed soon."At some point, I think we need a strategic plan on maybe consolidating some of the districts out west, understanding how much is structure fire versus wildland fire," Friesen said. "Maybe, considering if we consolidate, having a paid professional team out there. I know this is a sensitive topic for rural parts of our county and those that volunteer. This is not anything against them. It's just over time, I have seen certain districts have strong leadership, strong volunteerism and over time, that can change and it kind of ebbs and flows a little bit."Right now, Turon has that strong department. Friesen's concern is what happens if that changes, but since the only issue in front of them was the land purchase on Tuesday, the commissioners all agreed that buying the lot was something they would allow the fire district to do.<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;

Commission approves Turon fire station land purchase

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The first split vote of the new five member Reno County Commission was that for 2023 chair.&nbsp;

Commissioner Daniel Friesen retained his chair with three votes in favor of him from John Whitesel, Randy Parks and himself. Don Bogner and Ron Hirst voted for Hirst for chair.

Vice Chair is Randy Parks. He was installed on a 5-0 voice vote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674575342122.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The first split vote of the new five member Reno County Commission was that for 2023 chair.&nbsp;Commissioner Daniel Friesen retained his chair with three votes in favor of him from John Whitesel, Randy Parks and himself. Don Bogner and Ron Hirst voted for Hirst for chair.Vice Chair is Randy Parks. He was installed on a 5-0 voice vote.<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;

Friesen remains commission chair; Parks voted vice chair

LENEXA, KAN. — Landowner Stan Jost of Newton will pay a $50,000 civil penalty to resolve alleged violations of the federal Clean Water Act, according to a media release from the&nbsp; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The agency said Jost placed felled trees and other debris in approximately 4,155 feet of Mud Creek and approximately 1,800 feet of Sand Creek in 2021 without obtaining a Clean Water Act permit.

“The unauthorized placement of fill material into streams and other water bodies degrades watershed health, increases downstream erosion, and creates loss of wildlife habitat,” said David Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “These acts also deprive downstream landowners and the public from the use and enjoyment of public waters.”

In response to EPA’s findings, Jost removed the materials from the stream.

Under the Clean Water Act, parties are prohibited from discharging fill material into federally protected streams and other water bodies unless they first obtain a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). If parties place fill material into water bodies without a permit, the USACE may elect to refer an enforcement case to EPA. The USACE’s Kansas City District referred this case to EPA in January 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592424714240.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LENEXA, KAN. — Landowner Stan Jost of Newton will pay a $50,000 civil penalty to resolve alleged violations of the federal Clean Water Act, according to a media release from the&nbsp; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.The agency said Jost placed felled trees and other debris in approximately 4,155 feet of Mud Creek and approximately 1,800 feet of Sand Creek in 2021 without obtaining a Clean Water Act permit.“The unauthorized placement of fill material into streams and other water bodies degrades watershed health, increases downstream erosion, and creates loss of wildlife habitat,” said David Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “These acts also deprive downstream landowners and the public from the use and enjoyment of public waters.”In response to EPA’s findings, Jost removed the materials from the stream.Under the Clean Water Act, parties are prohibited from discharging fill material into federally protected streams and other water bodies unless they first obtain a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). If parties place fill material into water bodies without a permit, the USACE may elect to refer an enforcement case to EPA. The USACE’s Kansas City District referred this case to EPA in January 2022.<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;

EPA fines Newton landowner $50K for illegal dumping in streams

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Navigating today's marketing world is increasingly challenging.

To help local businesses chart a path in 2023 and beyond, EAGLE Media of Hutchinson will host marketing workshops at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson on Feb. 7th, 8th, and 9th. These workshops are free to local businesses. Each session is the same, lasts approximately an hour, and will be offered at 8:30, 10:30 and 2:30 each day. Business owners can find a time and day that works into their schedules.

When you attend one of the sessions, you will learn tactics to help you build your brand using a variety of platforms to deliver your marketing message. The Flight Plan Workshop with help clarify the complex media landscape and put you on the path to success.

“We are anxious to present this year’s information at the Flight Plan Workshop”, said Nancy Swain, General Manager of EAGLE Media in Hutchinson. “We have put together a fresh new presentation that will be helpful for those businesses who are looking to expand their knowledge of how the consumer thinks, and how they can target their message, making every marketing dollar count!”

The following week, on Feb. 15th and 16th, EAGLE Media will offer a digital marketing class at either 10:30 or 1:30 each day that will answer many of the digital marketing questions business owners may have. These classes are also free to business owners.

EAGLE Media of Hutchinson operates MY 93.1, Country 102.9, KWBW and Hutch Post. The team not only includes audio professionals but have expanded to offer complete video services, graphic design and website development.

To reserve you space at one of the EAGLE Flight Plan workshops, log on to <a href="https://www.eventcreate.com/e/flightplan">HutchFlightPlan.com</a> or click <a href="https://www.eventcreate.com/e/flightplan">HERE</a>. Each participant will receive free advertising just for attending and can register to win an annual advertising program valued at over $3000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674773726850.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Navigating today's marketing world is increasingly challenging.To help local businesses chart a path in 2023 and beyond, EAGLE Media of Hutchinson will host marketing workshops at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson on Feb. 7th, 8th, and 9th. These workshops are free to local businesses. Each session is the same, lasts approximately an hour, and will be offered at 8:30, 10:30 and 2:30 each day. Business owners can find a time and day that works into their schedules.When you attend one of the sessions, you will learn tactics to help you build your brand using a variety of platforms to deliver your marketing message. The Flight Plan Workshop with help clarify the complex media landscape and put you on the path to success.“We are anxious to present this year’s information at the Flight Plan Workshop”, said Nancy Swain, General Manager of EAGLE Media in Hutchinson. “We have put together a fresh new presentation that will be helpful for those businesses who are looking to expand their knowledge of how the consumer thinks, and how they can target their message, making every marketing dollar count!”The following week, on Feb. 15th and 16th, EAGLE Media will offer a digital marketing class at either 10:30 or 1:30 each day that will answer many of the digital marketing questions business owners may have. These classes are also free to business owners.EAGLE Media of Hutchinson operates MY 93.1, Country 102.9, KWBW and Hutch Post. The team not only includes audio professionals but have expanded to offer complete video services, graphic design and website development.To reserve you space at one of the EAGLE Flight Plan workshops, log on to <a href="https://www.eventcreate.com/e/flightplan">HutchFlightPlan.com</a> or click <a href="https://www.eventcreate.com/e/flightplan">HERE</a>. Each participant will receive free advertising just for attending and can register to win an annual advertising program valued at over $3000.

Free marketing workshop coming up next month

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has now rescinded a stream advisory for Slate Creek and the confluence of Sand Creek located near Newton, Kansas that was originally issued Jan. 9.

The stream advisory resulted from operation problems at the city of Newton’s wastewater plant. The city of Newton has repaired the problem.

The advisory was issued because potential elevated bacteria and contaminants may have been present in Slate Creek and the confluence of Sand Creek, located near Newton, Kansas.

Water samples show no health risk associated with the stream. Water contact in the stream is now deemed safe and if you live or have activities near this stream, you may enter the stream and you can allow children and pets to enter the stream.

<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/2021/7/1625874189284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has now rescinded a stream advisory for Slate Creek and the confluence of Sand Creek located near Newton, Kansas that was originally issued Jan. 9.The stream advisory resulted from operation problems at the city of Newton’s wastewater plant. The city of Newton has repaired the problem.The advisory was issued because potential elevated bacteria and contaminants may have been present in Slate Creek and the confluence of Sand Creek, located near Newton, Kansas.Water samples show no health risk associated with the stream. Water contact in the stream is now deemed safe and if you live or have activities near this stream, you may enter the stream and you can allow children and pets to enter the stream.<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;

KDHE: Harvey County stream now safe

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Family Community Theatre is holding the Bikini Bottom Boardwalk on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 1 p.m. at Prairie Hills Middle School at 3200 Lucille Drive to help celebrate the fun and excitement of SpongeBob SquarePants: the Musical. 

The Boardwalk will feature games, crafts, and entertainment for kids of all ages and photos with the SpongeBob cast.

Reservations are recommended, as space is limited. Cost is $15 per child and $5 per guardian.&nbsp;

FCT Kids Event c/o Janice Hoppes 410 Blue Spruce Rd.&nbsp; Hutchinson, KS 67502

If you have questions, call (620) 474-6569.

The Family Community Theatre will present The SpongeBob Musical at Memorial Hall, February 16-19, 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674560449296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Family Community Theatre is holding the Bikini Bottom Boardwalk on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 1 p.m. at Prairie Hills Middle School at 3200 Lucille Drive to help celebrate the fun and excitement of SpongeBob SquarePants: the Musical. The Boardwalk will feature games, crafts, and entertainment for kids of all ages and photos with the SpongeBob cast.Reservations are recommended, as space is limited. Cost is $15 per child and $5 per guardian.&nbsp;Mail reservations and payment to:FCT Kids Event c/o Janice Hoppes 410 Blue Spruce Rd.&nbsp; Hutchinson, KS 67502If you have questions, call (620) 474-6569.The Family Community Theatre will present The SpongeBob Musical at Memorial Hall, February 16-19, 2023.

Kids event for FCT coming up Feb. 4

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Interfaith Housing will be hosting a retirement reception for outgoing CEO Lorna Moore on Feb. 9 at their offices at&nbsp;1326 E Avenue A in Hutchinson.

Moore has been the CEO of the group since Nov. 1, 2017. She started with Interfaith as&nbsp;an administrative assistant in 2006.

Clint Nelson will be taking over as the new Chief Executive Officer.

Nelson also joined Interfaith Housing Services in 2006. 

Nelson's work began primarily within the Rental program while also assisting with volunteer oversight and renovation projects. From 2008 to 2016 Nelson served as the lead Property/Asset Manager during rental program expansion into both Harper and Ford Counties.

In 2017, Nelson became the Director of Housing Development with primary oversight of housing production, property acquisitions, negotiated contracts, and project grant writing. Nelson has played a key role in working through operational and financial strategies with the internal Leadership Team.

As part of the new leadership team, Interfaith also has promoted Ashley Cain to Chief Financial Officer, Lacy Stauffacher to Chief Operations Officer, and Jeff Thomson to Chief Projects Officer.

For more information on Interfaith Housing, call&nbsp;620-662-8370.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Interfaith Housing will be hosting a retirement reception for outgoing CEO Lorna Moore on Feb. 9 at their offices at&nbsp;1326 E Avenue A in Hutchinson.Moore has been the CEO of the group since Nov. 1, 2017. She started with Interfaith as&nbsp;an administrative assistant in 2006.Clint Nelson will be taking over as the new Chief Executive Officer.Nelson also joined Interfaith Housing Services in 2006. Nelson's work began primarily within the Rental program while also assisting with volunteer oversight and renovation projects. From 2008 to 2016 Nelson served as the lead Property/Asset Manager during rental program expansion into both Harper and Ford Counties.In 2017, Nelson became the Director of Housing Development with primary oversight of housing production, property acquisitions, negotiated contracts, and project grant writing. Nelson has played a key role in working through operational and financial strategies with the internal Leadership Team.As part of the new leadership team, Interfaith also has promoted Ashley Cain to Chief Financial Officer, Lacy Stauffacher to Chief Operations Officer, and Jeff Thomson to Chief Projects Officer.For more information on Interfaith Housing, call&nbsp;620-662-8370.

Retirement party for exiting Interfaith Housing CEO Feb. 9

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Superintendent Curtis Nightingale said his district is looking at what four-day school weeks might look like in future years.

"We actually put a committee together in October and started just looking at the research out there, as it relates to student achievement, applications, in terms of that retention and recruitment of staff, etc. We're at least looking at it. We've had a couple of community meetings, we've done surveys and we've got another community survey out right now, that we're collecting data."

It isn't really about saving money, all things considered.

"A lot of districts went to four day weeks because they considered it a cost savings for the district," Nightingale said. "In reality, that cost savings is kind of non-existent. You might be saving one to two percent when you consider bus routes and bus fuel. Realistically, we're not going to turn the heat down. We're not going to turn the cooling down on that one day of the week and save a lot of money."

The one thing that such a schedule might do is help with staffing.

"If I was offering you a job and you had to decide between two places to work and this place is five days a week and this place over here you get a three day weekend every week, I think that would give the edge to that four day schedule. Obviously, recruiting and retaining staff is a huge piece of this."

No final decisions have been made on the subject at this point.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628266388485.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Superintendent Curtis Nightingale said his district is looking at what four-day school weeks might look like in future years."We actually put a committee together in October and started just looking at the research out there, as it relates to student achievement, applications, in terms of that retention and recruitment of staff, etc. We're at least looking at it. We've had a couple of community meetings, we've done surveys and we've got another community survey out right now, that we're collecting data."It isn't really about saving money, all things considered."A lot of districts went to four day weeks because they considered it a cost savings for the district," Nightingale said. "In reality, that cost savings is kind of non-existent. You might be saving one to two percent when you consider bus routes and bus fuel. Realistically, we're not going to turn the heat down. We're not going to turn the cooling down on that one day of the week and save a lot of money."The one thing that such a schedule might do is help with staffing."If I was offering you a job and you had to decide between two places to work and this place is five days a week and this place over here you get a three day weekend every week, I think that would give the edge to that four day schedule. Obviously, recruiting and retaining staff is a huge piece of this."No final decisions have been made on the subject at this point.<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;

USD 309 looking at four day school week

NEWTON, Kan. — According to a message from Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy, on Jan. 30, Sen. Carolyn McGinn is hosting the annual Kansas Passenger Rail Coalition meeting in Topeka at the Capitol. The event will be attended by members of the Legislature. 

The latest updates on long-distance passenger rail service will be given, as well as statements from FRA Administrator Amit Bose.

Updates to the 2012 feasibility study on the proposed Heartland Flyer Amtrak route were expected to be available in December 2022 but have been delayed. 

The updated plan will be used by Transportation Departments of Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas as part of a grant application for federal transportation dollars as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

The funds would be utilized to improve the Heartland Flyer line that currently extends from Fort Worth to Oklahoma City. Expansion of the line from OKC through Wichita to Newton would then interconnect with the Southwest Chief. 

Prior to the pandemic, the Chief line served approximately 340,000 customers annually. The Heartland Expansion is expected to draw an additional 100,000-120,000 riders through Newton annually. Grant applications are due on March 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663103887561.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — According to a message from Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy, on Jan. 30, Sen. Carolyn McGinn is hosting the annual Kansas Passenger Rail Coalition meeting in Topeka at the Capitol. The event will be attended by members of the Legislature. The latest updates on long-distance passenger rail service will be given, as well as statements from FRA Administrator Amit Bose.Updates to the 2012 feasibility study on the proposed Heartland Flyer Amtrak route were expected to be available in December 2022 but have been delayed. The updated plan will be used by Transportation Departments of Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas as part of a grant application for federal transportation dollars as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funds would be utilized to improve the Heartland Flyer line that currently extends from Fort Worth to Oklahoma City. Expansion of the line from OKC through Wichita to Newton would then interconnect with the Southwest Chief. Prior to the pandemic, the Chief line served approximately 340,000 customers annually. The Heartland Expansion is expected to draw an additional 100,000-120,000 riders through Newton annually. Grant applications are due on March 20.<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;

Harvey County State Senator hosting statehouse meeting on rail

Sharon Hartin Iorio Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education

Consistent with conservative wishes when it comes to K-12 education, the 2023 “A better way” legislative agenda Kansas Republicans released a few days ago leans toward support for school choice Education Savings Accounts (ESAs).

Any significant upside in this is that the legislative process provides plenty of time for the public to voice their own goals for public school improvement.

ESA legislation likely to be introduced in 2023 would allow parents to draw down individual per student state funding to use at a private school or for other educational expenses such as tutoring, transportation or extra-curricular services.

Can providing Kansas taxpayer dollars to parents to spend on their child’s learning be the magic bullet for education or do ESAs drain the Kansas school system of needed resources and nullify the intent of state and federal law?

Kansas already offers a wide array of school choice options for parents—traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies and homeschooling. Open enrollment, which will go into effect in the 2024-25 school year, will permit any Kansas student to transfer schools based on the receiving school’s capacity.

An ESA is not a 529 education savings account plan, in Kansas called Learning Quest, where parents/anyone can invest their own dollars toward a child’s education. Funds accrued in a 529 account can be withdrawn tax-free if used to pay for college or other qualified education expenses including private schools.

The proposed ESA program is similar to voucher programs which originally allowed states to convert the amount of tax dollars going to support a child in public school to vouchers handed directly to parents for use at approved private schools.

The first voucher programs emerged in Southern states, during the 1950s shortly after American schools were desegregated. These vouchers were found unconstitutional by the U. S. Supreme Court in part because of selective-admission private school policies.

A resurgence in conservatism and voucher popularity began around 2000 and 15 states now have some form of revised voucher plans often called ESAs. These states’ laws are not uniform. Some limit recipients to high need students. Others allow funds to be spent on select learning services beyond private school tuition.

Recent successful lawsuits in Tennessee, South Carolina, and Kentucky blocked the diversion of millions of taxpayer dollars from public schools to private school vouchers.

The Education Law Center Public Funds Public Schools tracks challenges to ESAs and found a recently filed New Hampshire lawsuit revealed Amazon as the largest ESA beneficiary in 2021, receiving 18% of funds released to parents.

ESA supporters point to West Virginia, Florida and Arizona as examples where ESAs contribute to student success, but verification is difficult to determine because it is often based on short-term, non-scientific data collection.

There is an enormous difference between parents’ right to choose education for their own children and parents having power to decide where distribution of taxpayer dollars will go.

In Kansas, ESAs may be less about the opportunity for school choice than about shifting taxpayer education dollars to corporate entities and selective-admission private schools.

There are other, better ways to fix problem schools.

Whether it’s rural, suburban or city schools, anytime taxpayer money goes out-the-door to private enterprise, schools lose resources and the American ideal of free public education for all is diminished.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>Sharon Hartin Iorio Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education Consistent with conservative wishes when it comes to K-12 education, the 2023 “A better way” legislative agenda Kansas Republicans released a few days ago leans toward support for school choice Education Savings Accounts (ESAs).Any significant upside in this is that the legislative process provides plenty of time for the public to voice their own goals for public school improvement.ESA legislation likely to be introduced in 2023 would allow parents to draw down individual per student state funding to use at a private school or for other educational expenses such as tutoring, transportation or extra-curricular services.Can providing Kansas taxpayer dollars to parents to spend on their child’s learning be the magic bullet for education or do ESAs drain the Kansas school system of needed resources and nullify the intent of state and federal law?<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="opinion" />
 <figcaption>opinion</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas already offers a wide array of school choice options for parents—traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies and homeschooling. Open enrollment, which will go into effect in the 2024-25 school year, will permit any Kansas student to transfer schools based on the receiving school’s capacity.An ESA is not a 529 education savings account plan, in Kansas called Learning Quest, where parents/anyone can invest their own dollars toward a child’s education. Funds accrued in a 529 account can be withdrawn tax-free if used to pay for college or other qualified education expenses including private schools.The proposed ESA program is similar to voucher programs which originally allowed states to convert the amount of tax dollars going to support a child in public school to vouchers handed directly to parents for use at approved private schools.The first voucher programs emerged in Southern states, during the 1950s shortly after American schools were desegregated. These vouchers were found unconstitutional by the U. S. Supreme Court in part because of selective-admission private school policies.A resurgence in conservatism and voucher popularity began around 2000 and 15 states now have some form of revised voucher plans often called ESAs. These states’ laws are not uniform. Some limit recipients to high need students. Others allow funds to be spent on select learning services beyond private school tuition.Recent successful lawsuits in Tennessee, South Carolina, and Kentucky blocked the diversion of millions of taxpayer dollars from public schools to private school vouchers.The Education Law Center Public Funds Public Schools tracks challenges to ESAs and found a recently filed New Hampshire lawsuit revealed Amazon as the largest ESA beneficiary in 2021, receiving 18% of funds released to parents.ESA supporters point to West Virginia, Florida and Arizona as examples where ESAs contribute to student success, but verification is difficult to determine because it is often based on short-term, non-scientific data collection.There is an enormous difference between parents’ right to choose education for their own children and parents having power to decide where distribution of taxpayer dollars will go.In Kansas, ESAs may be less about the opportunity for school choice than about shifting taxpayer education dollars to corporate entities and selective-admission private schools.There are other, better ways to fix problem schools.Whether it’s rural, suburban or city schools, anytime taxpayer money goes out-the-door to private enterprise, schools lose resources and the American ideal of free public education for all is diminished.

Insight Kansas: Can Education Savings Accounts be a Better Way?

Laura Haffner, Ellis County farmer

Farmers and ranchers are some of the most resilient people I know. They weather incredible odds, pun intended, from droughts, to floods, fire, hail, blizzards and more. This doesn’t even touch the volatile input costs, family dynamics, inflation and increased regulations we are seeing. Despite these adversities, we pull ourselves up by the bootstraps and continue to provide for our families while often being the first to give the shirts off our own backs for a neighbor in need. But what happens when that proverbial bootstrap snaps? Do we fix it right away and make it whole again, or do we slap a little duct tape and bailing wire on it and call it good? While that solution may work for a short time, the tape will eventually lose its sticky and the wire will start poking one in the calf. That’s when a whole new set of challenges surface. In my own life, agriculture has provided me with some of life’s greatest highs, but it has also contributed to some of my darkest lows. It is curious how something we love so much can cause so much stress, and we often ignore or fail to address the signs.&nbsp; Several years ago, I invited a counselor with an agriculture background to my classroom. He walked students through an exercise where they wrote down all the agriculture-related stressors they could think of. Within a few short minutes, one group had listed more than 40. Upon evaluation, class members determined the only thing in all those items we could control was ourselves. That left more than 40 other major items that we had little to no control over. Talk about the perfect storm for some real stress in our industry! Using the results from the exercise, our guest speaker guided us through an eye-opening experience to help us learn how we view and handle our stress. Those in the room realized they weren’t alone, and there are others who have experienced similar stressors. That may have been just as powerful as any coping skill we could have learned — we are not alone in the battles we face in agriculture.&nbsp; Some battles we face are short and quick. They may annoyingly take our time and make us uncomfortable, but we can quickly adjust to take on another day. Some battles rage on for months and even years. Even the toughest, most resilient warriors can get worn down. In some cases, the burden is so great it feels like the battle may never end or we may be left behind on the field. But it doesn’t have to be that way.&nbsp; Our fellow members within the Farm Bureau family are standing up and recognizing that something needs to change. Farmers and ranchers are passionate about this topic because we’ve lived it or have seen our families and friends struggle with it. We are sounding the alarm, rallying the troops and fighting alongside each other to ensure no one is left on the field alone.&nbsp; Maybe you know something needs to change mentally but taking that first step to attack the topic of mental health is scary. Maybe the first step is opening up to a trusted friend, family member, doctor, pastor or exploring some resources to learn more. Perhaps you’re not experiencing any of your own mental health battles at the moment but would like to learn how to be an ally.&nbsp; While these don’t substitute for the opinion of a health care professional, Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) has been building an arsenal of resources that may serve as good place to start. You can find them by searching for Rural Minds Matter at kfb.org. “Kansas Living,” KFB’s quarterly lifestyle magazine, featured three members who have experienced challenges, and are working to help themselves and others. Read more at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=8ebc3f402e&amp;e=f12fae02a8" target="_blank">www.kansaslivingmagazine.com</a>&nbsp;or visit KFB’s YouTube channel to hear their stories firsthand.&nbsp;KFB’s Women’s Leadership Committee (WLC) teamed up with KFB’s Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers Committee at the organization’s annual meeting in December for a three-part farm family resilience workshop series. The WLC also plans to host a women’s wellness retreat in November. These are just a few examples of how farmers and ranchers are mobilizing and working together to offer a hand to friends and family when a bootstrap wears thin. It will take all of us doing our part to end the stigma, but together we can help ourselves, friends, families and communities continue to be healthy and resilient.&nbsp; If you or someone you know are experiencing an immediate emergency, call or text the national suicide hotline at 998.

"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/2023/1/1674486148405.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Laura Haffner, Ellis County farmerFarmers and ranchers are some of the most resilient people I know. They weather incredible odds, pun intended, from droughts, to floods, fire, hail, blizzards and more. This doesn’t even touch the volatile input costs, family dynamics, inflation and increased regulations we are seeing. Despite these adversities, we pull ourselves up by the bootstraps and continue to provide for our families while often being the first to give the shirts off our own backs for a neighbor in need. But what happens when that proverbial bootstrap snaps? Do we fix it right away and make it whole again, or do we slap a little duct tape and bailing wire on it and call it good? While that solution may work for a short time, the tape will eventually lose its sticky and the wire will start poking one in the calf. That’s when a whole new set of challenges surface. In my own life, agriculture has provided me with some of life’s greatest highs, but it has also contributed to some of my darkest lows. It is curious how something we love so much can cause so much stress, and we often ignore or fail to address the signs.&nbsp; Several years ago, I invited a counselor with an agriculture background to my classroom. He walked students through an exercise where they wrote down all the agriculture-related stressors they could think of. Within a few short minutes, one group had listed more than 40. Upon evaluation, class members determined the only thing in all those items we could control was ourselves. That left more than 40 other major items that we had little to no control over. Talk about the perfect storm for some real stress in our industry! Using the results from the exercise, our guest speaker guided us through an eye-opening experience to help us learn how we view and handle our stress. Those in the room realized they weren’t alone, and there are others who have experienced similar stressors. That may have been just as powerful as any coping skill we could have learned — we are not alone in the battles we face in agriculture.&nbsp; Some battles we face are short and quick. They may annoyingly take our time and make us uncomfortable, but we can quickly adjust to take on another day. Some battles rage on for months and even years. Even the toughest, most resilient warriors can get worn down. In some cases, the burden is so great it feels like the battle may never end or we may be left behind on the field. But it doesn’t have to be that way.&nbsp; Our fellow members within the Farm Bureau family are standing up and recognizing that something needs to change. Farmers and ranchers are passionate about this topic because we’ve lived it or have seen our families and friends struggle with it. We are sounding the alarm, rallying the troops and fighting alongside each other to ensure no one is left on the field alone.&nbsp; Maybe you know something needs to change mentally but taking that first step to attack the topic of mental health is scary. Maybe the first step is opening up to a trusted friend, family member, doctor, pastor or exploring some resources to learn more. Perhaps you’re not experiencing any of your own mental health battles at the moment but would like to learn how to be an ally.&nbsp; While these don’t substitute for the opinion of a health care professional, Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) has been building an arsenal of resources that may serve as good place to start. You can find them by searching for Rural Minds Matter at kfb.org. “Kansas Living,” KFB’s quarterly lifestyle magazine, featured three members who have experienced challenges, and are working to help themselves and others. Read more at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=8ebc3f402e&amp;e=f12fae02a8" target="_blank">www.kansaslivingmagazine.com</a>&nbsp;or visit KFB’s YouTube channel to hear their stories firsthand.&nbsp;KFB’s Women’s Leadership Committee (WLC) teamed up with KFB’s Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers Committee at the organization’s annual meeting in December for a three-part farm family resilience workshop series. The WLC also plans to host a women’s wellness retreat in November. These are just a few examples of how farmers and ranchers are mobilizing and working together to offer a hand to friends and family when a bootstrap wears thin. It will take all of us doing our part to end the stigma, but together we can help ourselves, friends, families and communities continue to be healthy and resilient.&nbsp; If you or someone you know are experiencing an immediate emergency, call or text the national suicide hotline at 998."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: Rural Minds Matter

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Classic Cattle Show returns to Hutchinson in 2023 Feb. 3 through Feb. 5. &nbsp;

“I think this is our seventh&nbsp;year to have it in Hutchinson, and&nbsp;my wife and I started it after another jackpot showing stopped,” Dylan Evans, show organizer, said.  “It's a huge jackpot show for kids.” &nbsp;

Evans added there is not really a set beginning age to until when kids in this type of show age out.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Usually in a jackpot show there are cash awards.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“Also, a jackpot is just a term for&nbsp;more of a low key, non-major event,” Evans said. “So,&nbsp;not like a State Fair, not like a national western, more of just a weekend outing.” &nbsp;

According to Evans, the organizers of the Kansas Classic Cattle Show will provide the cash awards, as they usually do, based on their numbers.&nbsp;

The weekend cattle event is a heifer and steer show, and will begin with a heifer&nbsp;show on Saturday and then showmanship that Saturday evening. Sunday will be a steer&nbsp;show. &nbsp;

“Our heifer&nbsp;show is usually 150 to 200 head and then our steer show is right about 100,” Evans said. “Our goal is always about 300 head. &nbsp;Between 250 and 300.” &nbsp;

Additionally, there will be drawings for different prizes.&nbsp;

“Sometimes we do a TV, sometimes we do air pods, an iPad,” said Evans. “Different things like that we've done. It's just another way to give more things out to the kids.”&nbsp;

Evans, a member of the Kansas State Fair Board, grew up showing livestock.&nbsp;

After he was done showing livestock, he helped a group of kids from his community show all over the U.S. &nbsp;

Evans said he just wants to continue putting on a livestock show in Kansas for the kids in order to&nbsp;give them some place to present their animals. &nbsp;

“My wife and I showed cattle all over the nation and we aged out and we don't have any children so this is just something we're still really passionate about and like to do it,” Evans said. &nbsp;“It's usually a fun weekend, I’m glad&nbsp;it's only one time a year because it is a very busy weekend.”&nbsp;

For more information about this year’s Kansas Classic Cattle Show, including registration forms and costs, visit <a href="https://www.thekansasclassic.com/" target="_blank">thekansasclassic.com</a>. &nbsp;

Be sure to follow the Kansas Classic Cattle Show <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thekansasclassic/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> for updates. &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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674447470597.jpg" alt="The Kansas Classic Cattle Show gives kids an opportunity to show their livestock off. [PHOTO: Stock image/pixabay]" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Classic Cattle Show gives kids an opportunity to show their livestock off. [PHOTO: Stock image/pixabay]</figcaption>
 </figure>JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Classic Cattle Show returns to Hutchinson in 2023 Feb. 3 through Feb. 5. &nbsp;“I think this is our seventh&nbsp;year to have it in Hutchinson, and&nbsp;my wife and I started it after another jackpot showing stopped,” Dylan Evans, show organizer, said. “It's a huge jackpot show for kids.” &nbsp;Evans added there is not really a set beginning age to until when kids in this type of show age out.&nbsp;&nbsp;Usually in a jackpot show there are cash awards.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Also, a jackpot is just a term for&nbsp;more of a low key, non-major event,” Evans said. “So,&nbsp;not like a State Fair, not like a national western, more of just a weekend outing.” &nbsp;According to Evans, the organizers of the Kansas Classic Cattle Show will provide the cash awards, as they usually do, based on their numbers.&nbsp;The weekend cattle event is a heifer and steer show, and will begin with a heifer&nbsp;show on Saturday and then showmanship that Saturday evening. Sunday will be a steer&nbsp;show. &nbsp;“Our heifer&nbsp;show is usually 150 to 200 head and then our steer show is right about 100,” Evans said. “Our goal is always about 300 head. &nbsp;Between 250 and 300.” &nbsp;Additionally, there will be drawings for different prizes.&nbsp;“Sometimes we do a TV, sometimes we do air pods, an iPad,” said Evans. “Different things like that we've done. It's just another way to give more things out to the kids.”&nbsp;Evans, a member of the Kansas State Fair Board, grew up showing livestock.&nbsp;After he was done showing livestock, he helped a group of kids from his community show all over the U.S. &nbsp;Evans said he just wants to continue putting on a livestock show in Kansas for the kids in order to&nbsp;give them some place to present their animals. &nbsp;“My wife and I showed cattle all over the nation and we aged out and we don't have any children so this is just something we're still really passionate about and like to do it,” Evans said. &nbsp;“It's usually a fun weekend, I’m glad&nbsp;it's only one time a year because it is a very busy weekend.”&nbsp;For more information about this year’s Kansas Classic Cattle Show, including registration forms and costs, visit <a href="https://www.thekansasclassic.com/" target="_blank">thekansasclassic.com</a>. &nbsp;Be sure to follow the Kansas Classic Cattle Show <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thekansasclassic/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> for updates. &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;

Kansas Classic Cattle Show returns in February

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council will vote on the removal of Shae Barajas Brooks from the position of fire chief at its meeting Monday night.

If&nbsp;Barajas Brooks is removed, the body will then vote on approval of Mayor Brian Garretson’s Appointment of Greg Henke as South Hutch Fire Chief.

Those are the only action items other than the consent agenda on Monday.&nbsp;

The South Hutchinson City Council will meet at&nbsp;6:00 p.m. at the city offices at&nbsp;2 S Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663601059046.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council will vote on the removal of Shae Barajas Brooks from the position of fire chief at its meeting Monday night.If&nbsp;Barajas Brooks is removed, the body will then vote on approval of Mayor Brian Garretson’s Appointment of Greg Henke as South Hutch Fire Chief.Those are the only action items other than the consent agenda on Monday.&nbsp;The South Hutchinson City Council will meet at&nbsp;6:00 p.m. at the city offices at&nbsp;2 S Main.<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;

South Hutch council to vote on fire chief Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Wound management and treatments are vital to helping you heal faster and with fewer complications. The wound care clinic at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System has trained professionals to help you know what to do for healing. Abigail Lehman is an APRN who specializes in wound care.

"Any wound in your body should heal in 30 days, no matter how big it is," Lehman said. "They body should heal it in 30 days. Kind of a good marker, I tell people, if it goes past 30 days, that's not a wound that's healing normally and you could probably benefit from our services."

Getting in with the wound care clinic starts with going to your regular doctor.

"It really works best if people start with their primary care provider, sometimes they'll need the walk-in clinic and unfortunately, sometimes they may require the services of our ER department there in Hutchinson, if their injury is severe enough," Lehman said. "Have another provider lay eyes on it. They can provide care to you right then that your wound needs and then help make that determination, if you need specialty services."

Your plan of treatment will vary depending on any existing conditions you have, such as peripheral vascular disease, diabetes or venous insufficiency. Additionally, your compliance with the plan will greatly affect the rate of healing.

"When we get a referral, we're usually working on it that exact same day and can usually get you an appointment," Lehman said. "You have an appointment in hand, you may not be in the clinic, but you have an appointment time, within three days."

The wound care clinic treats a variety of conditions. Many of those are listed below:

Again, start the process of getting a referral for wound care with your primary care physician.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674304400172.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Wound management and treatments are vital to helping you heal faster and with fewer complications. The wound care clinic at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System has trained professionals to help you know what to do for healing. Abigail Lehman is an APRN who specializes in wound care."Any wound in your body should heal in 30 days, no matter how big it is," Lehman said. "They body should heal it in 30 days. Kind of a good marker, I tell people, if it goes past 30 days, that's not a wound that's healing normally and you could probably benefit from our services."Getting in with the wound care clinic starts with going to your regular doctor."It really works best if people start with their primary care provider, sometimes they'll need the walk-in clinic and unfortunately, sometimes they may require the services of our ER department there in Hutchinson, if their injury is severe enough," Lehman said. "Have another provider lay eyes on it. They can provide care to you right then that your wound needs and then help make that determination, if you need specialty services."Your plan of treatment will vary depending on any existing conditions you have, such as peripheral vascular disease, diabetes or venous insufficiency. Additionally, your compliance with the plan will greatly affect the rate of healing."When we get a referral, we're usually working on it that exact same day and can usually get you an appointment," Lehman said. "You have an appointment in hand, you may not be in the clinic, but you have an appointment time, within three days."The wound care clinic treats a variety of conditions. Many of those are listed below:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674304191206.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Again, start the process of getting a referral for wound care with your primary care physician.<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;

HRMC wound care clinic can help heal faster

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The five-member Board of County Commissioners will have its final member, John Whitesel, sworn in on Tuesday morning and then the board will get right to work, with the biggest piece of business being figuring out what to do about the bid for the interior courthouse renovations.

The original estimate from GLMV Architects for the project was around $1.2 million. The lone bidder on the project, Ward Davis Builders, bid $2.126 million.

This is a large project. According to agenda documents, here is what would be done, broken down by floor.

Fifth Floor - Take space on the 5th floor currently used for storage in an area that was the courthouse's original jail area and renovate for office space and a conference room to allow for all of the DA's staff to be on the same floor for convenience.

Fourth/Fifth Floor - Create a stairway between the two floors as a second means of escape in case of a fire.

Third Floor - Modify a room for court to allow for an additional witness/jury room.

Second Floor/Mezzanine - Move the current Kansas Legal Services personnel to the fourth floor in the area being vacated by the DA's staff. Then modify the office area on the 2nd floor to allow for an office and conference room. A large expense of this renovation project is the proposed walkway to be built between the current Kansas Legal Services area to the mezzanine on the north side of the courthouse that will meet ADA requirements and the use of an elevator to access the mezzanine. Make small changes to the mezzanine area for new flooring and outlets that will allow for work stations to be placed on the mezzanine.

First Floor - Add additional office spaces on the north side of the building where Human Resources and Administration are located that will better utilize the space available. The additional offices would allow for the work stations in the middle of the first floor to be in an office area for privacy and to allow for other uses in the common space. The county counselor and his staff would move to the north side of the building to work in conjunction with the administration office and allow for the Reno Conference Room to return as a conference room.

Reno County has created a capital reserve fund that can handle this bid, but staff recommends discussing the project to see if there are cost saving measures. 

Harlen Depew met with the contractor and the architect to discuss the bid to get a more thorough explanation of the costs.

The majority of the cost for renovations are focused on the 5th floor addition, along with the stairway to the 4th floor, and the small jury room modification on the 3rd floor. 

Items that might be pulled from the project or done following the results of the space study with SJCF, include the first-floor modifications and the walkway that would connect the Mezzanine area to elevator access.

The meeting of the Board of County Commissioners will begin Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599581759047.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The five-member Board of County Commissioners will have its final member, John Whitesel, sworn in on Tuesday morning and then the board will get right to work, with the biggest piece of business being figuring out what to do about the bid for the interior courthouse renovations.The original estimate from GLMV Architects for the project was around $1.2 million. The lone bidder on the project, Ward Davis Builders, bid $2.126 million.This is a large project. According to agenda documents, here is what would be done, broken down by floor.Fifth Floor - Take space on the 5th floor currently used for storage in an area that was the courthouse's original jail area and renovate for office space and a conference room to allow for all of the DA's staff to be on the same floor for convenience.Fourth/Fifth Floor - Create a stairway between the two floors as a second means of escape in case of a fire.Third Floor - Modify a room for court to allow for an additional witness/jury room.Second Floor/Mezzanine - Move the current Kansas Legal Services personnel to the fourth floor in the area being vacated by the DA's staff. Then modify the office area on the 2nd floor to allow for an office and conference room. A large expense of this renovation project is the proposed walkway to be built between the current Kansas Legal Services area to the mezzanine on the north side of the courthouse that will meet ADA requirements and the use of an elevator to access the mezzanine. Make small changes to the mezzanine area for new flooring and outlets that will allow for work stations to be placed on the mezzanine.First Floor - Add additional office spaces on the north side of the building where Human Resources and Administration are located that will better utilize the space available. The additional offices would allow for the work stations in the middle of the first floor to be in an office area for privacy and to allow for other uses in the common space. The county counselor and his staff would move to the north side of the building to work in conjunction with the administration office and allow for the Reno Conference Room to return as a conference room.Reno County has created a capital reserve fund that can handle this bid, but staff recommends discussing the project to see if there are cost saving measures. Harlen Depew met with the contractor and the architect to discuss the bid to get a more thorough explanation of the costs.The majority of the cost for renovations are focused on the 5th floor addition, along with the stairway to the 4th floor, and the small jury room modification on the 3rd floor. Items that might be pulled from the project or done following the results of the space study with SJCF, include the first-floor modifications and the walkway that would connect the Mezzanine area to elevator access.The meeting of the Board of County Commissioners will begin 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&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;

Board of County Commissioners to discuss courthouse renovations Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Housing Commission will consider a letter of support for the proposed Plum Creek housing subdivision at its meeting on Wednesday.

According to developer Jim Strawn, this development will be located just to the east of Plum Creek Elementary School on 43rd St.

This will be the first sub-division in Hutchinson to implement the Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) for single family homes. The improvements such as design, water, sewer, storm water, curb and gutter, streets, electric, gas and sidewalks would be funded by bonds through the City of Hutchinson and paid for through the property tax (paid annually) until the bonds are paid off. Once the bonds are paid in full, the city, county, schools and college all will get their normal percentage. 

By funding it in this manner, there would be no special assessments on the homes. Special assessments have been a deterrent to the Salina housing market. Given the recent increase in interest rates, this probably will become more pronounced.

The development will be an 87 lot sub-division with 8 three-bedroom duplexes, the remainder being entry level homes. Those homes will range in size from approximately 1200 to 1450 square feet.

The single-family homes will have full basements. In general, the residences will be three bedroom, two bathroom homes with a two-car garage. There will be multiple options for the homeowners to pick from to personalize each home. 

Those options will include interior and exterior color choices, covered patios, third car garages and possible basement finishes. There will be a neighborhood pool with play equipment, restroom, dog park, covered patio area, etc. 

The project is also requesting a Moderate-Income Housing (MIH) Grant. The City of Hutchinson would be the applicant and the Plum Creek Project would be the designee to receive the funds. MIH Grants are highly competitive, the next application deadline is February 17th. The MIH grant request will be for the first phase of Plum Creek which includes 15 single family for sale homes, eight duplex for rent units, a clubhouse and pool.

 The developer and builder are Strawn Construction. Heartland Housing Partners is the development consultant. Strawn Construction has constructed MIH projects in Marion, Moundridge, Lyons, Inman and McPherson. Heartland Housing Partners has participated in RHID and MIH projects across the state, including participating in 12 MIH awards and over 25 RHID’s.

The Hutchinson Housing Commission will meet at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in the City Council Chambers Workroom at 125 E. Avenue B.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Housing Commission will consider a letter of support for the proposed Plum Creek housing subdivision at its meeting on Wednesday.According to developer Jim Strawn, this development will be located just to the east of Plum Creek Elementary School on 43rd St.This will be the first sub-division in Hutchinson to implement the Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) for single family homes. The improvements such as design, water, sewer, storm water, curb and gutter, streets, electric, gas and sidewalks would be funded by bonds through the City of Hutchinson and paid for through the property tax (paid annually) until the bonds are paid off. Once the bonds are paid in full, the city, county, schools and college all will get their normal percentage. By funding it in this manner, there would be no special assessments on the homes. Special assessments have been a deterrent to the Salina housing market. Given the recent increase in interest rates, this probably will become more pronounced.The development will be an 87 lot sub-division with 8 three-bedroom duplexes, the remainder being entry level homes. Those homes will range in size from approximately 1200 to 1450 square feet.The single-family homes will have full basements. In general, the residences will be three bedroom, two bathroom homes with a two-car garage. There will be multiple options for the homeowners to pick from to personalize each home. Those options will include interior and exterior color choices, covered patios, third car garages and possible basement finishes. There will be a neighborhood pool with play equipment, restroom, dog park, covered patio area, etc. The project is also requesting a Moderate-Income Housing (MIH) Grant. The City of Hutchinson would be the applicant and the Plum Creek Project would be the designee to receive the funds. MIH Grants are highly competitive, the next application deadline is February 17th. The MIH grant request will be for the first phase of Plum Creek which includes 15 single family for sale homes, eight duplex for rent units, a clubhouse and pool. The developer and builder are Strawn Construction. Heartland Housing Partners is the development consultant. Strawn Construction has constructed MIH projects in Marion, Moundridge, Lyons, Inman and McPherson. Heartland Housing Partners has participated in RHID and MIH projects across the state, including participating in 12 MIH awards and over 25 RHID’s.The Hutchinson Housing Commission will meet at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in the City Council Chambers Workroom at 125 E. Avenue B.<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;

Housing commission asked for support for Plum Creek subdivision

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI), that was released on Thursday, climbed above the growth neutral threshold, 50.0, for a second consecutive month, according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy. 

Economist Ernie Goss said that the ag sector has actually done fairly well lately.

"There's some of course that are particularly affected by drought conditions," Goss said. "That would be particularly true in Kansas and Nebraska, where droughts have had significant impacts on the farm income, but overall, it's been good. We had much more elevated input prices six months to a year ago. Our prices have come down on those inputs. At the same time, what farmers are selling, of course, soybean and other commodities, those have held up pretty good, so the gap there has widened. That's contributing to better income for the farmers."

Farmers generally are doing pretty well cash wise, which is good news for them, but not necessarily for the bankers that the survey covers, but as conditions soften, Goss sees use of credit by farmers as more likely soon.

"That's going to probably turn upward in the weeks and months ahead, probably as input prices do increase a bit," Goss said. "Some of the agricultural commodity prices will likely come down somewhat. That will be prices of corn, soybeans and others. We are seeing an opening up of China, which is good, more of an opening up. That's a good market for agricultural commodities from this part of the country."

The expiring farm bill and how its renewal shakes out could mean a lot to rural main street by year's end.

"There are going to be some pressures on federal financial support for farming," Goss said. "We're going to see that. We asked the bankers about that threat. Sometime this summer, we're really going to see things come forth with deficit reduction and trying to extend the ability of the federal government to borrow more money."

The closer the<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/d203c617-cf32-46b1-b06a-1bb129b70804"> debt ceiling fight</a> gets to the farm bill deadline, the worse the opportunity may be for the rural areas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622642233344.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI), that was released on Thursday, climbed above the growth neutral threshold, 50.0, for a second consecutive month, according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy. Economist Ernie Goss said that the ag sector has actually done fairly well lately."There's some of course that are particularly affected by drought conditions," Goss said. "That would be particularly true in Kansas and Nebraska, where droughts have had significant impacts on the farm income, but overall, it's been good. We had much more elevated input prices six months to a year ago. Our prices have come down on those inputs. At the same time, what farmers are selling, of course, soybean and other commodities, those have held up pretty good, so the gap there has widened. That's contributing to better income for the farmers."Farmers generally are doing pretty well cash wise, which is good news for them, but not necessarily for the bankers that the survey covers, but as conditions soften, Goss sees use of credit by farmers as more likely soon."That's going to probably turn upward in the weeks and months ahead, probably as input prices do increase a bit," Goss said. "Some of the agricultural commodity prices will likely come down somewhat. That will be prices of corn, soybeans and others. We are seeing an opening up of China, which is good, more of an opening up. That's a good market for agricultural commodities from this part of the country."The expiring farm bill and how its renewal shakes out could mean a lot to rural main street by year's end."There are going to be some pressures on federal financial support for farming," Goss said. "We're going to see that. We asked the bankers about that threat. Sometime this summer, we're really going to see things come forth with deficit reduction and trying to extend the ability of the federal government to borrow more money."The closer the<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/d203c617-cf32-46b1-b06a-1bb129b70804"> debt ceiling fight</a> gets to the farm bill deadline, the worse the opportunity may be for the rural areas.&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;&nbsp;

Rural economy growing slowly, headwinds on horizon

Contest winner has furnace installed

TURON, Kan. — Reno County Fire District #7, located in Turon is looking to upgrade and the Board of County Commissioners will consider a land purchase for that purpose as part of its meeting Tuesday.

The current station was built in 1947 with concrete block. An addition to the station was made in 2000. The concrete portion of the station is cracked and contains holes in the blocks and seams which keeps the station from being climate controlled. The station is heated by a space heater and in the cold months, because of the holes and cracks, the heater runs constantly to keep the pumps and plumbing pipes from freezing. This causes high gas bills for the district to pay during the cold winter months. 

Another problem with the station is that the roof leaks when it rains to the point where anything of value in the meeting room/office area is covered by tarps to avoid damage. The station is also too small to properly fit all of the district’s trucks. Access to the driver side of one truck has to be made through the passenger side. 

Due to the height restrictions of the station, an extensive search had to be completed when looking to purchase an Engine. Future truck purchases will be tough to complete because of the state of the current station. There is not enough room in the station to accommodate any larger apparatus that the district might purchase in the future.

The district has been planning to build a new station and a few years ago, the large lot on the southeast corner of Burns and Chicago was for sale. 

The location is an ideal site for a new fire station, but the district was denied a station upgrade at that time. One of the firefighters, Anthony Perkins, bought the lot with the intentions of selling it to the fire district to be the site of the new fire station. 

With Mr. Perkins expressing his desire to sell the property to the district, authorities feel it is time to begin the process of getting Fire District #7 a new station with the first step of action being the purchase of the land. The owner is asking for $5000 for the lot.

The Board of County Commissioners will meet Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674256604653.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TURON, Kan. — Reno County Fire District #7, located in Turon is looking to upgrade and the Board of County Commissioners will consider a land purchase for that purpose as part of its meeting Tuesday.The current station was built in 1947 with concrete block. An addition to the station was made in 2000. The concrete portion of the station is cracked and contains holes in the blocks and seams which keeps the station from being climate controlled. The station is heated by a space heater and in the cold months, because of the holes and cracks, the heater runs constantly to keep the pumps and plumbing pipes from freezing. This causes high gas bills for the district to pay during the cold winter months. Another problem with the station is that the roof leaks when it rains to the point where anything of value in the meeting room/office area is covered by tarps to avoid damage. The station is also too small to properly fit all of the district’s trucks. Access to the driver side of one truck has to be made through the passenger side. Due to the height restrictions of the station, an extensive search had to be completed when looking to purchase an Engine. Future truck purchases will be tough to complete because of the state of the current station. There is not enough room in the station to accommodate any larger apparatus that the district might purchase in the future.The district has been planning to build a new station and a few years ago, the large lot on the southeast corner of Burns and Chicago was for sale. The location is an ideal site for a new fire station, but the district was denied a station upgrade at that time. One of the firefighters, Anthony Perkins, bought the lot with the intentions of selling it to the fire district to be the site of the new fire station. With Mr. Perkins expressing his desire to sell the property to the district, authorities feel it is time to begin the process of getting Fire District #7 a new station with the first step of action being the purchase of the land. The owner is asking for $5000 for the lot.The Board of County Commissioners will meet Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

County commission to discuss land purchase for Turon fire station

MCPHERSON, Kan. — Bluestem PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), a nonprofit dedicated to helping seniors live well at home, will host its annual 5K run/walk on Saturday, April 1 in McPherson. &nbsp;

Those interested in registering for the PACE Race can do so at&nbsp;<a href="https://bluestempace.org/events" target="_blank">bluestemks.org/events</a>. &nbsp;

Registration is $30 and due by Feb. 15. Registration will include a race t-shirt. After Feb. 15, registration increases to $35.&nbsp;

The PACE Race is a flat course that begins and ends near the Bluestem PACE McPherson location at 113 S. Ash Street. The route winds through the central part of the McPherson community.&nbsp;

The 2023 PACE Race marks the sixth year for the event, which benefits the Bluestem PACE Good Neighbor Fund. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594915781198.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — Bluestem PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly), a nonprofit dedicated to helping seniors live well at home, will host its annual 5K run/walk on Saturday, April 1 in McPherson. &nbsp;Those interested in registering for the PACE Race can do so at&nbsp;<a href="https://bluestempace.org/events" target="_blank">bluestemks.org/events</a>. &nbsp;Registration is $30 and due by Feb. 15. Registration will include a race t-shirt. After Feb. 15, registration increases to $35.&nbsp;The PACE Race is a flat course that begins and ends near the Bluestem PACE McPherson location at 113 S. Ash Street. The route winds through the central part of the McPherson community.&nbsp;The 2023 PACE Race marks the sixth year for the event, which benefits the Bluestem PACE Good Neighbor Fund. &nbsp;Bluestem PACE is a non-profit organization that supports individuals aged 55 and up&nbsp;who require comprehensive medical care while continuing to live in their own homes. &nbsp;The Bluestem PACE Good Neighbor Fund provides financial assistance to program participants in the event of unexpected circumstances, and assists Bluestem PACE in providing the highly coordinated, integrated medical, social, physical, and personal care.&nbsp;With the primary location in McPherson and an alternative care site in Hutchinson, Bluestem PACE serves seniors in a six-county south central Kansas region of McPherson, Reno, Harvey, Marion, Rice and Saline counties.&nbsp;“We’re so grateful for the support of the communities in which Bluestem PACE participants live as we all work together to support them and help seniors remain living in their homes for as long as possible,” Justin Loewen, executive director of Bluestem PACE, said.&nbsp;The 2023 Bluestem PACE Race is funded in part by a grant from the McPherson Convention and Visitor’s Center, as well as other local businesses and individuals.&nbsp;“The support of each of our sponsors allows us to provide more resources to PACE participants and continue offering them the best, personalized care possible,” Sheryl Dossett, Bluestem PACE fund advancement associate, said.&nbsp;The Bluestem PACE 5K run/walk will start at 9 a.m. &nbsp;Race sponsorship options are still available. Contact Sheryl Dossett at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sheryld@bluestemks.org" target="_blank">sheryld@bluestemks.org</a>&nbsp;for more information about becoming a sponsor.&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;

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