On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Teacher, coach and author Rick Keltner.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rr0JlNypUF0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Teacher, coach and author Rick Keltner.

🎤 Forward Ever: Teacher, coach and author Rick Keltner

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Friday was the graduation for the Class of 2022 Law Enforcement Leadership Academy in Topeka. 

 The Academy is a grueling year long course with Law Enforcement leaders from across Kansas attending to develop new skills through excellent instruction and to learn from each other. 

Patrol Sergeant David Radke joined the ranks of Law Enforcement Leadership Academy graduates from the Reno County Sheriff's Office on Friday.  Graduates of this program are Kansas and Missouri Certified Public Managers.

Past graduates include Reno County Undersheriff Shawn McHaley, Captain Steven Lutz, Captain Shawn McClay, Captain Levi Blumanhourst and Detective Sergeant Diana Skomal.&nbsp;&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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670008482073.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Friday was the graduation for the Class of 2022 Law Enforcement Leadership Academy in Topeka. The Academy is a grueling year long course with Law Enforcement leaders from across Kansas attending to develop new skills through excellent instruction and to learn from each other. Patrol Sergeant David Radke joined the ranks of Law Enforcement Leadership Academy graduates from the Reno County Sheriff's Office on Friday. Graduates of this program are Kansas and Missouri Certified Public Managers.Past graduates include Reno County Undersheriff Shawn McHaley, Captain Steven Lutz, Captain Shawn McClay, Captain Levi Blumanhourst and Detective Sergeant Diana Skomal.&nbsp;&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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Radke graduates from Law Enforcement Leadership Academy in Topeka Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Major Paul James with the Salvation Army said that they have been able to help even more people than originally anticipated this year, including with Project Concern.

"We helped just over 750 families for Thanksgiving for Project Concern," James said. "Definitely a lot more than we anticipated, but we were grateful being able to still provide for them."

The need for Christmas is even greater than it was for Thanksgiving.

"We're at 1100 boxes that we'll be packing up here this next week for food boxes," James said. "We have over 200 more children this year that have registered already at this time. We served 1200 kids last year. Maybe a few more families this year, but family sizes just seem to be a little bit bigger this year, that are in need."

The Salvation Army also still needs distribution volunteers.

"We will be doing our distribution on December 15, 16 and 19," James said. "The 15th and 16th are toys and then on the 19th is food distribution. It's afternoon shifts, so it's 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m."&nbsp;

For more information, contact D.J. James at 620-663-3353 or <a href="mailto:dj.james@usc.salvationarmy.org">dj.james@usc.salvationarmy.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564176522240.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Major Paul James with the Salvation Army said that they have been able to help even more people than originally anticipated this year, including with Project Concern."We helped just over 750 families for Thanksgiving for Project Concern," James said. "Definitely a lot more than we anticipated, but we were grateful being able to still provide for them."The need for Christmas is even greater than it was for Thanksgiving."We're at 1100 boxes that we'll be packing up here this next week for food boxes," James said. "We have over 200 more children this year that have registered already at this time. We served 1200 kids last year. Maybe a few more families this year, but family sizes just seem to be a little bit bigger this year, that are in need."The Salvation Army also still needs distribution volunteers."We will be doing our distribution on December 15, 16 and 19," James said. "The 15th and 16th are toys and then on the 19th is food distribution. It's afternoon shifts, so it's 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m."&nbsp;For more information, contact D.J. James at 620-663-3353 or <a href="mailto:dj.james@usc.salvationarmy.org">dj.james@usc.salvationarmy.org</a>.<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;&nbsp;

Salvation Army meeting greater need in 2022

MANHATTAN — The Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) announced on Dec. 2, the creation of the Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program (RKAP).

The RKAP was developed with a grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Registered Apprenticeship to help address workforce needs in rural communities across Kansas. “We’re excited about this partnership opportunity to offer a program where employers and employees grow alongside each other,” Joel Leftwich, KFB chief strategy officer, said. “RKAP will assist businesses to create individual programs to meet their needs while employees will receive on-the-job training, mentorship and increased earning potential.” RKAP is Kansas’ first registered apprenticeship program focused solely on agriculture and rural communities to provide industry-driven career pathways for farmers, ranchers and small businesses serving agricultural areas.

Registered apprenticeships benefit&nbsp;employers by developing a skilled and loyal workforce. Meanwhile, apprentices enjoy a full-time job with a certified credential showing mastery of their craft. “Apprenticeship programs allow us to expand the skillsets of our workforce to meet the needs of rural communities,” Shonda Atwater, director of Apprenticeship and Internship for the Kansas Department of Commerce, said. “Investing in talent – a key pillar in the Kansas Framework for Growth – is critical because it creates opportunities for our young people to thrive.”&nbsp; Registered apprenticeships can be tailored to meet the needs of every business and industry.

The model has proven successful amongst other industries including construction, healthcare and manufacturing for many years in Kansas. 

For more information on RKAP, contact Joel Leftwich at <a href="mailto:leftwichj@kfb.org">leftwichj@kfb.org</a> or visit the Office of Registered Apprenticeship <a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=1e1bea8834&amp;e=f12fae02a8">website</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575384916134.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — The Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) announced on Dec. 2, the creation of the Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program (RKAP).The RKAP was developed with a grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Registered Apprenticeship to help address workforce needs in rural communities across Kansas. “We’re excited about this partnership opportunity to offer a program where employers and employees grow alongside each other,” Joel Leftwich, KFB chief strategy officer, said. “RKAP will assist businesses to create individual programs to meet their needs while employees will receive on-the-job training, mentorship and increased earning potential.” RKAP is Kansas’ first registered apprenticeship program focused solely on agriculture and rural communities to provide industry-driven career pathways for farmers, ranchers and small businesses serving agricultural areas. Registered apprenticeships benefit&nbsp;employers by developing a skilled and loyal workforce. Meanwhile, apprentices enjoy a full-time job with a certified credential showing mastery of their craft. “Apprenticeship programs allow us to expand the skillsets of our workforce to meet the needs of rural communities,” Shonda Atwater, director of Apprenticeship and Internship for the Kansas Department of Commerce, said. “Investing in talent – a key pillar in the Kansas Framework for Growth – is critical because it creates opportunities for our young people to thrive.”&nbsp; Registered apprenticeships can be tailored to meet the needs of every business and industry. The model has proven successful amongst other industries including construction, healthcare and manufacturing for many years in Kansas. For more information on RKAP, contact Joel Leftwich at <a href="mailto:leftwichj@kfb.org">leftwichj@kfb.org</a> or visit the Office of Registered Apprenticeship <a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=1e1bea8834&amp;e=f12fae02a8">website</a>.&nbsp; &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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

KFB launching rural apprenticeship program 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Through December 31st, there are&nbsp; two special offers for 2023 Kansas State Fair tickets.

$50 Gift Certificates are for sale at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/12251/kansas-state-fair?utm_source=fb&amp;utm_medium=paidsocial&amp;utm_campaign=ksf_holiday_conv_cbo-lifetime-%24250_12%2F2-12%2F20&amp;utm_content=gift-guide_post_etix%2Blookalikes-claritas%2Blookalikes_ks-no-kc_conv_12%2F2-12%2F20-Facebook_Desktop_Feed&amp;utm_term=holiday_etix%2Blookalikes-claritas%2Blookalikes_ks-no-kc_max-spend-%24250&amp;fbclid=IwAR3jDuQOsk2PnFFwmiX5Qr5Hvmxuwk99S2uAJ_Xwz0cHk56h9qiBpG5l9EM" target="_blank">https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/12251/kansas-state-fair</a>

These can be redeemed for gate admission, ride, grandstand, and food tickets, or ticket packages, starting in spring 2023.  

For every $50 gift certificate purchased, you can purchase up to four gate admission tickets for $3 each (can be used on adult, senior, or child gate admission). 

To redeem, you must add at least one $50 gift certificate to your cart and then click to checkout.  You will see a pop-up asking if you want to add $3 gate admission tickets to your cart. 

 $10 and $25 gift certificates also available. The smaller certificates are not eligible for the $3 gate admission offer.

Once tickets are released in Spring 2023, you can contact the Kansas State Fair ticket office to redeem your gift certificates on a $45 Season Pass ($100 Value)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/12251/kansas-state-fair?utm_source=fb&amp;utm_medium=paidsocial&amp;utm_campaign=ksf_holiday_conv_cbo-lifetime-%24250_12%2F2-12%2F20&amp;utm_content=gift-guide_post_etix%2Blookalikes-claritas%2Blookalikes_ks-no-kc_conv_12%2F2-12%2F20-Facebook_Desktop_Feed&amp;utm_term=holiday_etix%2Blookalikes-claritas%2Blookalikes_ks-no-kc_max-spend-%24250&amp;fbclid=IwAR3zsCDmkf9IZ9OoSmqqkDS76VSltR8KEDR7HO7djbQOT6lLvl3I5FIjn1s" target="_blank">https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/12251/kansas-state-fair</a>

The credit card-style card includes 10 gate admission scans.

 This can be used for one person each day, for multiple people all in one day, or in any increment. The regular&nbsp;season pass price is $50.

For those that purchase one, your season pass card will be mailed by July 1st.

 Limit 10 season passes per order. You may also visit or call the KSF Admin Office every Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to purchase tickets through December 29th. You can call them at (620) 669-3600.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663083198915.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Through December 31st, there are&nbsp; two special offers for 2023 Kansas State Fair tickets.$50 Gift Certificates are for sale at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/12251/kansas-state-fair?utm_source=fb&amp;utm_medium=paidsocial&amp;utm_campaign=ksf_holiday_conv_cbo-lifetime-%24250_12%2F2-12%2F20&amp;utm_content=gift-guide_post_etix%2Blookalikes-claritas%2Blookalikes_ks-no-kc_conv_12%2F2-12%2F20-Facebook_Desktop_Feed&amp;utm_term=holiday_etix%2Blookalikes-claritas%2Blookalikes_ks-no-kc_max-spend-%24250&amp;fbclid=IwAR3jDuQOsk2PnFFwmiX5Qr5Hvmxuwk99S2uAJ_Xwz0cHk56h9qiBpG5l9EM" target="_blank">https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/12251/kansas-state-fair</a>These can be redeemed for gate admission, ride, grandstand, and food tickets, or ticket packages, starting in spring 2023. For every $50 gift certificate purchased, you can purchase up to four gate admission tickets for $3 each (can be used on adult, senior, or child gate admission). To redeem, you must add at least one $50 gift certificate to your cart and then click to checkout. You will see a pop-up asking if you want to add $3 gate admission tickets to your cart. $10 and $25 gift certificates also available. The smaller certificates are not eligible for the $3 gate admission offer.Once tickets are released in Spring 2023, you can contact the Kansas State Fair ticket office to redeem your gift certificates on a $45 Season Pass ($100 Value)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/12251/kansas-state-fair?utm_source=fb&amp;utm_medium=paidsocial&amp;utm_campaign=ksf_holiday_conv_cbo-lifetime-%24250_12%2F2-12%2F20&amp;utm_content=gift-guide_post_etix%2Blookalikes-claritas%2Blookalikes_ks-no-kc_conv_12%2F2-12%2F20-Facebook_Desktop_Feed&amp;utm_term=holiday_etix%2Blookalikes-claritas%2Blookalikes_ks-no-kc_max-spend-%24250&amp;fbclid=IwAR3zsCDmkf9IZ9OoSmqqkDS76VSltR8KEDR7HO7djbQOT6lLvl3I5FIjn1s" target="_blank">https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/12251/kansas-state-fair</a>The credit card-style card includes 10 gate admission scans. This can be used for one person each day, for multiple people all in one day, or in any increment. The regular&nbsp;season pass price is $50.For those that purchase one, your season pass card will be mailed by July 1st. Limit 10 season passes per order. You may also visit or call the KSF Admin Office every Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to purchase tickets through December 29th. You can call them at (620) 669-3600.

Gift Certificates for Kansas State Fair available online

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Michelle McCartney with Cosmosphere notes that there will be a lot of witnesses to history at the First and Last Steps event Friday night on the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

"We've got two moon walkers here tonight," McCartney said. "We've got Harrison Schmitt and we have Charlie Duke. We're very excited to have those dignitaries here along with a lot of Mission Control crew and other astronauts, as well."&nbsp; 

The full list of invited dignitaries included Jeff Ashby, Jerry Bostick, Charlie Duke, Gerry Griffin, Fred Haise, Steven Hawley, Gene Kranz (unable to attend), Jack Lousma&nbsp;(unable to attend), Harrison Schmitt and Milt Windler. There will be a public opportunity to take a look at the sky outside the event tonight, as well.

"Tonight, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., we have a public telescope viewing," McCartney said. "You will meet at the east side of the Meadowlark Building at the Fairgrounds. Hopefully, with a clear sky, you'll have a great view of planets and bright stars in the southern sky. "

The viewing is put on by the Cosmosphere Astronomy Club. Also, there is a special event involving one of the most famous astronauts not to walk on the moon, Fred Haise. That event is taking place on Saturday.

"Haise will be here doing his book signing for his new autobiography, Never Panic Early," McCartney said. "That's Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Cosmosphere. The book signing will be located in the Hall of Space Museum by the Apollo 13 command module, Odyssey."

For a full schedule of the weekend's events, go to <a href="https://cosmo.org/">cosmo.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583247028814.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Michelle McCartney with Cosmosphere notes that there will be a lot of witnesses to history at the First and Last Steps event Friday night on the Kansas State Fairgrounds."We've got two moon walkers here tonight," McCartney said. "We've got Harrison Schmitt and we have Charlie Duke. We're very excited to have those dignitaries here along with a lot of Mission Control crew and other astronauts, as well."&nbsp; The full list of invited dignitaries included Jeff Ashby, Jerry Bostick, Charlie Duke, Gerry Griffin, Fred Haise, Steven Hawley, Gene Kranz (unable to attend), Jack Lousma&nbsp;(unable to attend), Harrison Schmitt and Milt Windler. There will be a public opportunity to take a look at the sky outside the event tonight, as well."Tonight, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., we have a public telescope viewing," McCartney said. "You will meet at the east side of the Meadowlark Building at the Fairgrounds. Hopefully, with a clear sky, you'll have a great view of planets and bright stars in the southern sky. "The viewing is put on by the Cosmosphere Astronomy Club. Also, there is a special event involving one of the most famous astronauts not to walk on the moon, Fred Haise. That event is taking place on Saturday."Haise will be here doing his book signing for his new autobiography, Never Panic Early," McCartney said. "That's Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Cosmosphere. The book signing will be located in the Hall of Space Museum by the Apollo 13 command module, Odyssey."For a full schedule of the weekend's events, go to <a href="https://cosmo.org/">cosmo.org</a>.<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;&nbsp;

Events with many dignitaries for Cosmosphere this weekend

PRATT, Kan. — On Monday, January 16, Pratt USD 382 is partnering with the Pratt County Emergency Manager, Pratt County Sheriff's Office, and the Pratt Police Department to conduct an Active Shooter Drill with USD 382 staff. 

 The purpose of the drill is to practice the school's response alongside the response of law enforcement.   This collaborative effort will strengthen the crisis plan, build a strong relationship with law enforcement partners, and provide administrators and teachers with confidence in the crisis response plan. 

The drill will be conducted between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Jan. 16. No students will be present during the drill.

<figure>
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 </figure>PRATT, Kan. — On Monday, January 16, Pratt USD 382 is partnering with the Pratt County Emergency Manager, Pratt County Sheriff's Office, and the Pratt Police Department to conduct an Active Shooter Drill with USD 382 staff. The purpose of the drill is to practice the school's response alongside the response of law enforcement. This collaborative effort will strengthen the crisis plan, build a strong relationship with law enforcement partners, and provide administrators and teachers with confidence in the crisis response plan. The drill will be conducted between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Jan. 16. No students will be present during the drill.

Pratt USD 382 to hold Active Shooter Drill Jan. 16

Envista to highlight BrightHouse in December

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The joint meeting of the Hutchinson City Council and the Board of Reno County Commissioners will be at noon Tuesday at the city's Reverse Osmosis Facility at 23rd and Severance.

The agenda for the two bodies is water related, specifically talking about the best partnerships they can put together for water and sewer infrastructure and future connections to the K-96 industrial park and a possible sewer connection to HABIT and to Yoder.

They will also talk about other economic related partnerships and how each can leverage their position with the other to bring in business to Hutchinson and Reno County.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The joint meeting of the Hutchinson City Council and the Board of Reno County Commissioners will be at noon Tuesday at the city's Reverse Osmosis Facility at 23rd and Severance.The agenda for the two bodies is water related, specifically talking about the best partnerships they can put together for water and sewer infrastructure and future connections to the K-96 industrial park and a possible sewer connection to HABIT and to Yoder.They will also talk about other economic related partnerships and how each can leverage their position with the other to bring in business to Hutchinson and Reno County.

Since water is main topic, joint meeting at RO facility

A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon to 6 p.m. Friday. Extreme Grassland Fire Danger is forecast. Winds will be from the West at&nbsp;25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph, with relative humidity as low as&nbsp;17 percent.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly  and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not  recommended.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1669980544475.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon to 6 p.m. Friday. Extreme Grassland Fire Danger is forecast. Winds will be from the West at&nbsp;25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph, with relative humidity as low as&nbsp;17 percent.Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.<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;&nbsp;

Red Flag Warning Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;On Nov. 30, the Robert E. and Patricia Schmidt Foundation donated $50,000 to&nbsp;the new Reno Connections program at the Hutchinson Public Library. The funds will be used to create an awareness campaign to make this community resource available to residents of Reno County. 

 The check was presented by Nancy Swain, General Manager at EAGLE Media to Valerie Taylor, the new Community Care Coordinator and Denice Gilliland, Director of Community Impact for the United Way of Reno County.

"The Schmidt Foundation has once again found a way to help create a better community through opening doors instead of creating roadblocks,"&nbsp;said Nancy Swain, General Manager at EAGLE Media Hutchinson. "At EAGLE Media, we are excited to help launch a year-long awareness campaign of this vital program that was created by the United Way of Reno County. Creating awareness is what we do, and funding through the Schmidt Foundation will allow us to help them do just that."

This grant will be used to make the community aware of the services offered by Reno Connections through various media including radio, billboards, digital and print.&nbsp;Reno Connections is a United Way of Reno County program, thanks to the Early Childhood Block Grant in partnership with the Hutchinson Public Library.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1669919180175.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;On Nov. 30, the Robert E. and Patricia Schmidt Foundation donated $50,000 to&nbsp;the new Reno Connections program at the Hutchinson Public Library. The funds will be used to create an awareness campaign to make this community resource available to residents of Reno County. The check was presented by Nancy Swain, General Manager at EAGLE Media to Valerie Taylor, the new Community Care Coordinator and Denice Gilliland, Director of Community Impact for the United Way of Reno County."The Schmidt Foundation has once again found a way to help create a better community through opening doors instead of creating roadblocks,"&nbsp;said Nancy Swain, General Manager at EAGLE Media Hutchinson. "At EAGLE Media, we are excited to help launch a year-long awareness campaign of this vital program that was created by the United Way of Reno County. Creating awareness is what we do, and funding through the Schmidt Foundation will allow us to help them do just that."This grant will be used to make the community aware of the services offered by Reno Connections through various media including radio, billboards, digital and print.&nbsp;Reno Connections is a United Way of Reno County program, thanks to the Early Childhood Block Grant in partnership with the Hutchinson Public Library.<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;&nbsp;

Schmidt Foundation gives Reno Connections $50,000

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Mary Magdalene House is holding its 2nd annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the house at 7201 East 4th, east of Hutchinson. 

The bazaar will have home made gifts, silent auction items, lunch and the House's jam will be available and ready to sample. 

All the proceeds from the Bazaar go to support the ministry of the Mary Magdalene House.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Mary Magdalene House is holding its 2nd annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the house at 7201 East 4th, east of Hutchinson. The bazaar will have home made gifts, silent auction items, lunch and the House's jam will be available and ready to sample. All the proceeds from the Bazaar go to support the ministry of the Mary Magdalene House.<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;&nbsp;

Mary Magdalene House Christmas Bazaar is Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis will be hired as the Hutchinson City Administrator, pending the approval of his contract by the Hutchinson City Council in their meeting on Tuesday.

According to the contract as printed in the meeting agenda documents, Francis will start in Hutchinson on January 1, 2023 and receive&nbsp;a bi-weekly base salary of $6,730.77 and a one time payment of $10,000&nbsp;for relocation, housing, down payment assistance and related incidentals.

The City also is going to contribute three percent (3%) of Francis'&nbsp;base salary on his behalf to a deferred compensation program of his choice.

He will also receive a $500 a month vehicle allowance to use his own vehicle for city business and a $100 a month cell phone allowance.

Francis has worked in municipal positions since at least 1994. According to his LinkedIn profile, he was a wastewater treatment plant operator in Beloit from 1994 to 2007 and foreman of the water plant from 2007 to 2009, before being named Director of Water/Wastewater Operations in March of 2009 and holding that job until January of 2014.&nbsp;

He then became City Administrator in Lakin for a year and a half, then Coffeyville for not quite three years, before coming to Great Bend in July of 2018.

Interim City Manager Gary Meagher has been serving Hutchinson since Jeff Cantrell's contract was not renewed in mid-May.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis will be hired as the Hutchinson City Administrator, pending the approval of his contract by the Hutchinson City Council in their meeting on Tuesday.According to the contract as printed in the meeting agenda documents, Francis will start in Hutchinson on January 1, 2023 and receive&nbsp;a bi-weekly base salary of $6,730.77 and a one time payment of $10,000&nbsp;for relocation, housing, down payment assistance and related incidentals.The City also is going to contribute three percent (3%) of Francis'&nbsp;base salary on his behalf to a deferred compensation program of his choice.He will also receive a $500 a month vehicle allowance to use his own vehicle for city business and a $100 a month cell phone allowance.Francis has worked in municipal positions since at least 1994. According to his LinkedIn profile, he was a wastewater treatment plant operator in Beloit from 1994 to 2007 and foreman of the water plant from 2007 to 2009, before being named Director of Water/Wastewater Operations in March of 2009 and holding that job until January of 2014.&nbsp;He then became City Administrator in Lakin for a year and a half, then Coffeyville for not quite three years, before coming to Great Bend in July of 2018.Interim City Manager Gary Meagher has been serving Hutchinson since Jeff Cantrell's contract was not renewed in mid-May.

Great Bend City Administrator to be hired in Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Toy Depot in Hutchinson is a downtown gem for all ages.

“We are a vintage toy store and there’s only fourteen of us in the world,” Toy Depot owner, Mark Buckley, said. “And we’re the only one that is south or west of Chicago in the Unites States. And what’s also unique, we’re the only (one) in a city under three million that has a vintage toy store.” &nbsp;

According to Buckley, five percent of their toys are sold to Toy Depot every day&nbsp;for resale. &nbsp;

Before they hit the shelves, the toys are inspected to make sure they are not broken or have missing parts, and then cleaned. If needed, they are sent to a specialist for repair. &nbsp;

Toy Depot has toys and games that are close to 100 years old. &nbsp;

“We had a toy that was the oldest we had, it was from 1867,” Buckley said. “We sold it to an antique person and it was a child’s riding horse. It was like a little tricycle, they rode it. It was a very expensive piece, very rare.” &nbsp;

They accept toys, at the earliest, from 10 years back.&nbsp;

Buckley’s expansive knowledge of toys, especially trains, is nothing short of phenomenal. &nbsp;

“Well, what happened was, 40 years ago, I started collecting toys. I already had trains, I collected trains forever,” Buckley explained. “We decided, Geneva Nisly and I, we decided we would sell at flea-markets and garages and that kind of thing. We never dreamed of having a store.” 

Then one day, Buckley and Nisly were approached about buying a building. &nbsp;

“We just bought a huge collection, and we had two storage units full of toys,” Buckley said. “I said 'Geneva? What do you think?' So,&nbsp;we went down, we looked at the store, we met with the people that owned it, we shook hands and we bought us a building, and we end up with a vintage toy store. Something we really didn’t plan on doing.”&nbsp;

Buckley said almost everything in the building needed repaired, including the plumbing and wiring.&nbsp;

Buckley and Nisly spent months repairing and renovating the property, including the walls, lighting, heating, and even the metal ceiling of the historic downtown building. &nbsp;

The building that houses Toy Depot was built in 1883.&nbsp;

When walking into Toy Depot, customers will see it is divided into three specific, but all entertaining rooms. &nbsp;

The front room, also known as the toy room, is the first room people see when entering the building. &nbsp;

Situated on shelves upon shelves, are the memories in the forms of various toys from generations of childhoods.&nbsp;

“It’s got cars and trains and dolls and marbles and Fisher Price and Breyer horses and My Little Pony and Ertl tractors, and all those kinds of toys you can think of,” Buckley said. “Then the middle room is big trucks and games and some action figures.”&nbsp;

The back room is the only room where nothing is for sale. It is part of Buckley’s expansive train collection. &nbsp;

“I have over 3,000 pieces in my collection. Part of it is in the store and all of the train cars are under glass, so you can see all the different kinds of train cars there are,” Buckley said. “And in the middle, I have a 'train board' that’s interactive, that has 18 buttons and switches to play with.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone who comes to the train room of the store is able to flip the switches, press the buttons and watch the miniature town within the glass come to life. &nbsp;

“The youngest person has played with it, is three-days-old,” Buckley said. “The oldest was a lady that was a little over a hundred.” &nbsp;

Toy Depot sees a lot of foot traffic. &nbsp;

“Most of the time it will be three-to-five hundred people will come through on a Third Thursday,” Buckley said. “On a Saturday during Christmas, I’m probably four or five hundred people through in a day. It’s just busy all the time. During a weekday, 50 or 75, it’s casual.”&nbsp;

Toy Depot is always present during downtown Hutchinson’s monthly&nbsp;Third Thursday&nbsp;

Buckley takes great pride in his work, mostly because he has so much fun. &nbsp;

“I love what I do,” Buckley said. “I could retire and sell this and move wherever I want, but two things I love: One, I love Hutchinson, and two, I love toys. This gives me the greatest retirement in the world. You cannot beat this. I got the best of both worlds.” &nbsp;

Buckley’s passion for Toy Depot is matched and rooted in his passion for downtown Hutchinson. &nbsp;

“What makes downtown Hutchinson unique, that we have gone back to the original fronts of buildings,” Buckley said. “This is what architects and designers saw downtown. It’s nice to see that people have gone back and preserved the buildings the way it should have been.” &nbsp;

Along with the rest of the downtown storefronts, when people walk into Toy Depot, Buckley wants to see the joy of people. &nbsp;

“The first thing I want people to do when they walk in the store, is smile,” Buckley said. “If they smile, I’ve won, because they come in and go 'Wow' and you can see it in their eyes. We’re not talking kids, we’re talking adults. I want them to feel how I felt as child when I walked into a toy store.” &nbsp;

Buckley expressed Toy Depot is not just a toy store or a museum of some interesting celebrity memorabilia, but somewhere in the middle. &nbsp;

“We don’t sell just toys; we sell an experience,” Buckley said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

 Toy Depot's current holiday hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. After Jan. 1, they will go back to their standard Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. &nbsp;

More about Toy Depot and their community activities can be found at their <a href="https://hutchtoydepot.com/">website</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchtoydepot">Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;

Their phone number is&nbsp;(620) 259-8284.

People who want to indulge their children, as well as indulge their own inner child, can visit Toy Depot at 127 S. Main St. in Hutchinson. Ask about their holiday deals. &nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1669935932340.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JUDD WEIL&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Toy Depot in Hutchinson is a downtown gem for all ages.“We are a vintage toy store and there’s only fourteen of us in the world,” Toy Depot owner, Mark Buckley, said. “And we’re the only one that is south or west of Chicago in the Unites States. And what’s also unique, we’re the only (one) in a city under three million that has a vintage toy store.” &nbsp;According to Buckley, five percent of their toys are sold to Toy Depot every day&nbsp;for resale. &nbsp;Before they hit the shelves, the toys are inspected to make sure they are not broken or have missing parts, and then cleaned. If needed, they are sent to a specialist for repair. &nbsp;Toy Depot has toys and games that are close to 100 years old. &nbsp;“We had a toy that was the oldest we had, it was from 1867,” Buckley said. “We sold it to an antique person and it was a child’s riding horse. It was like a little tricycle, they rode it. It was a very expensive piece, very rare.” &nbsp;They accept toys, at the earliest, from 10 years back.&nbsp;Buckley’s expansive knowledge of toys, especially trains, is nothing short of phenomenal. &nbsp;“Well, what happened was, 40 years ago, I started collecting toys. I already had trains, I collected trains forever,” Buckley explained. “We decided, Geneva Nisly and I, we decided we would sell at flea-markets and garages and that kind of thing. We never dreamed of having a store.” Then one day, Buckley and Nisly were approached about buying a building. &nbsp;“We just bought a huge collection, and we had two storage units full of toys,” Buckley said. “I said 'Geneva? What do you think?' So,&nbsp;we went down, we looked at the store, we met with the people that owned it, we shook hands and we bought us a building, and we end up with a vintage toy store. Something we really didn’t plan on doing.”&nbsp;Buckley said almost everything in the building needed repaired, including the plumbing and wiring.&nbsp;Buckley and Nisly spent months repairing and renovating the property, including the walls, lighting, heating, and even the metal ceiling of the historic downtown building. &nbsp;The building that houses Toy Depot was built in 1883.&nbsp;When walking into Toy Depot, customers will see it is divided into three specific, but all entertaining rooms. &nbsp;The front room, also known as the toy room, is the first room people see when entering the building. &nbsp;Situated on shelves upon shelves, are the memories in the forms of various toys from generations of childhoods.&nbsp;“It’s got cars and trains and dolls and marbles and Fisher Price and Breyer horses and My Little Pony and Ertl tractors, and all those kinds of toys you can think of,” Buckley said. “Then the middle room is big trucks and games and some action figures.”&nbsp;The back room is the only room where nothing is for sale. It is part of Buckley’s expansive train collection. &nbsp;“I have over 3,000 pieces in my collection. Part of it is in the store and all of the train cars are under glass, so you can see all the different kinds of train cars there are,” Buckley said. “And in the middle, I have a 'train board' that’s interactive, that has 18 buttons and switches to play with.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone who comes to the train room of the store is able to flip the switches, press the buttons and watch the miniature town within the glass come to life. &nbsp;“The youngest person has played with it, is three-days-old,” Buckley said. “The oldest was a lady that was a little over a hundred.” &nbsp;Toy Depot sees a lot of foot traffic. &nbsp;“Most of the time it will be three-to-five hundred people will come through on a Third Thursday,” Buckley said. “On a Saturday during Christmas, I’m probably four or five hundred people through in a day. It’s just busy all the time. During a weekday, 50 or 75, it’s casual.”&nbsp;Toy Depot is always present during downtown Hutchinson’s monthly&nbsp;Third Thursday&nbsp;Buckley takes great pride in his work, mostly because he has so much fun. &nbsp;“I love what I do,” Buckley said. “I could retire and sell this and move wherever I want, but two things I love: One, I love Hutchinson, and two, I love toys. This gives me the greatest retirement in the world. You cannot beat this. I got the best of both worlds.” &nbsp;Buckley’s passion for Toy Depot is matched and rooted in his passion for downtown Hutchinson. &nbsp;“What makes downtown Hutchinson unique, that we have gone back to the original fronts of buildings,” Buckley said. “This is what architects and designers saw downtown. It’s nice to see that people have gone back and preserved the buildings the way it should have been.” &nbsp;Along with the rest of the downtown storefronts, when people walk into Toy Depot, Buckley wants to see the joy of people. &nbsp;“The first thing I want people to do when they walk in the store, is smile,” Buckley said. “If they smile, I’ve won, because they come in and go 'Wow' and you can see it in their eyes. We’re not talking kids, we’re talking adults. I want them to feel how I felt as child when I walked into a toy store.” &nbsp;Buckley expressed Toy Depot is not just a toy store or a museum of some interesting celebrity memorabilia, but somewhere in the middle. &nbsp;“We don’t sell just toys; we sell an experience,” Buckley said.&nbsp; &nbsp; Toy Depot's current holiday hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. After Jan. 1, they will go back to their standard Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. &nbsp;More about Toy Depot and their community activities can be found at their <a href="https://hutchtoydepot.com/">website</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchtoydepot">Facebook page</a>.&nbsp;Their phone number is&nbsp;(620) 259-8284.People who want to indulge their children, as well as indulge their own inner child, can visit Toy Depot at 127 S. Main St. in Hutchinson. Ask about their holiday deals. &nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Toy Depot brings out anyone's inner child

BUSHTON, Kan. —&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bushton-Community-Center/136444156405214">Bushton Community Center</a> will be hosting <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/490211279714650?ref=newsfeed">Santa’s Bazaar</a> on Dec. 3. &nbsp;

The Saturday’s activities will include a craft show with over 20 vendors.&nbsp;

Craft vendors will include unique handmade items, such as homemade baked goods, jellies, freeze-dried foods and soap, handmade home décor and jewelry, and handcrafted wood products, as well as other new and exciting items.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The craft booths will be open from 9 a.m. to&nbsp;2 p.m.	&nbsp;

There will be a Christmas photo booth throughout the day.&nbsp;

Santa Claus will make an appearance from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., to hand out goodie-bags. &nbsp;

Running in the same time frame, the Christmas Kids Corner will feature cookie decorating and other activities. Hot chocolate will be served. &nbsp;

A three-category soup contest is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. &nbsp;

An&nbsp;award will be presented for each of three categories, chili, chicken noodle and “other.” &nbsp;

A soup tasting kit can be purchased for $5.00.&nbsp;

There also will be a drawing for prizes donated by the vendors, and a concession stand open throughout the day.&nbsp;

Santa’s Bazaar will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. &nbsp;

The Bushton Community Center is located at 301 N. Main St. in Bushton, Kan. &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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1669912187112.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSHTON, Kan. —&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bushton-Community-Center/136444156405214">Bushton Community Center</a> will be hosting <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/490211279714650?ref=newsfeed">Santa’s Bazaar</a> on Dec. 3. &nbsp;The Saturday’s activities will include a craft show with over 20 vendors.&nbsp;Craft vendors will include unique handmade items, such as homemade baked goods, jellies, freeze-dried foods and soap, handmade home décor and jewelry, and handcrafted wood products, as well as other new and exciting items.&nbsp;&nbsp;The craft booths will be open from 9 a.m. to&nbsp;2 p.m.	&nbsp;There will be a Christmas photo booth throughout the day.&nbsp;Santa Claus will make an appearance from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., to hand out goodie-bags. &nbsp;Running in the same time frame, the Christmas Kids Corner will feature cookie decorating and other activities. Hot chocolate will be served. &nbsp;A three-category soup contest is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. &nbsp;An&nbsp;award will be presented for each of three categories, chili, chicken noodle and “other.” &nbsp;A soup tasting kit can be purchased for $5.00.&nbsp;There also will be a drawing for prizes donated by the vendors, and a concession stand open throughout the day.&nbsp;Santa’s Bazaar will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. &nbsp;The Bushton Community Center is located at 301 N. Main St. in Bushton, Kan. &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;&nbsp;

Santa's Bazaar in Bushton this Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Glenn Koster, Sr., a resident of South Hutchinson who holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Western Governors University (WGU), has been named to the fully online, nonprofit university’s 2022 class of Distinguished Graduates. &nbsp;

The award is given to WGU alumni who have used their education to help improve the lives of others in their communities. &nbsp;

Koster was one of 25 Distinguished Graduates to be recently recognized by WGU.&nbsp;

Koster, who overcame many challenges in his youth and is now an ordained pastor, has dedicated his life to helping others. &nbsp;

Abandoned by his birth parents and moved through the foster care system until he was successfully adopted, Koster has made headlines for his walks across the country. &nbsp;

One walked was in 2018-2019, when he walked 4,310 miles from Florida to Washington in support of children in foster care. &nbsp;

His leadership and awareness efforts have helped raise more than $10,000 for Central Kansas children's organizations. &nbsp;

He earned his bachelor’s degree from WGU in 2013. nearly 40 years after he first attempted college. He&nbsp;has used his degree to improve effectiveness and help those in need. &nbsp;

Koster is also a published author, with two additional books slated for completion this year. &nbsp;

His first book is titled,&nbsp;Life is a Long Story Short: Lessons from Living through Abuse, Abandonment, and Adoption.&nbsp;

“Getting my degree from WGU meant the world to me, and this award proves that my education was worthwhile,” Koster said. “This recognition gives me credibility, which is useful for what I seek to do going forward."&nbsp;

Each year, WGU accepts nominations for Distinguished Graduate candidates online. &nbsp;

The award is given to select WGU alumni whose work or volunteer efforts go above and beyond what is required by their employment, and who have made a significant positive difference in their community or career field.&nbsp;

“Glenn and the other WGU alumni who were recognized as 2022 Distinguished Graduates are examples of inspiration and dedication,” Dr. Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of Western Governors University, said. “Their devotion to their careers and communities are exemplary, and we are very proud of them and are thrilled to count them among our alums.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information about the Distinguished Graduate Award or WGU, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wgu.edu/" target="_blank">www.wgu.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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1669921692882.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Glenn Koster, Sr., a resident of South Hutchinson who holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Western Governors University (WGU), has been named to the fully online, nonprofit university’s 2022 class of Distinguished Graduates. &nbsp;The award is given to WGU alumni who have used their education to help improve the lives of others in their communities. &nbsp;Koster was one of 25 Distinguished Graduates to be recently recognized by WGU.&nbsp;Koster, who overcame many challenges in his youth and is now an ordained pastor, has dedicated his life to helping others. &nbsp;Abandoned by his birth parents and moved through the foster care system until he was successfully adopted, Koster has made headlines for his walks across the country. &nbsp;One walked was in 2018-2019, when he walked 4,310 miles from Florida to Washington in support of children in foster care. &nbsp;His leadership and awareness efforts have helped raise more than $10,000 for Central Kansas children's organizations. &nbsp;He earned his bachelor’s degree from WGU in 2013. nearly 40 years after he first attempted college. He&nbsp;has used his degree to improve effectiveness and help those in need. &nbsp;Koster is also a published author, with two additional books slated for completion this year. &nbsp;His first book is titled,&nbsp;Life is a Long Story Short: Lessons from Living through Abuse, Abandonment, and Adoption.&nbsp;“Getting my degree from WGU meant the world to me, and this award proves that my education was worthwhile,” Koster said. “This recognition gives me credibility, which is useful for what I seek to do going forward."&nbsp;Each year, WGU accepts nominations for Distinguished Graduate candidates online. &nbsp;The award is given to select WGU alumni whose work or volunteer efforts go above and beyond what is required by their employment, and who have made a significant positive difference in their community or career field.&nbsp;“Glenn and the other WGU alumni who were recognized as 2022 Distinguished Graduates are examples of inspiration and dedication,” Dr. Terrance Hopson, Regional Vice President of Western Governors University, said. “Their devotion to their careers and communities are exemplary, and we are very proud of them and are thrilled to count them among our alums.”&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about the Distinguished Graduate Award or WGU, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wgu.edu/" target="_blank">www.wgu.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;&nbsp;

South Hutchinson man recognized as distinguished graduate

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said according to his monthly survey of Midwest supply managers, the economy is weaker than it has been in a couple of years.

"This is the worst reading we've had since the beginning of the pandemic, that would be in May of 2020," Goss said. "The overall index dropped below growth-neutral. Supply managers are not very optimistic about the future, either. Things are just not what we'd like to see in our report."

The issues that are ongoing after the pandemic could be exacerbated by the national railroad labor dispute.

"Weaknesses are finding and hiring qualified workers," Goss said. "Sixty-five percent of the supply managers said they had few applicants for the jobs that they have posted. In other words, nobody's showing up. This is constraining growth. Of course, we are staring down at a potential rail strike. We'll have to see what happens in Congress, there. That would sort of seal the deal."

Though Congress is pushing through a deal to try to keep the railroads at work, Goss would rather have seen it handled differently.

"There are a lot of workers directly employed by rail companies," Goss said. "Also, there are indirect impacts to agriculture, to ethanol. The list is long of industries that would be negatively affected. I'm on the side of thinking this should be settled by the parties themselves, but it doesn't appear that's going to happen."

Supply managers are overwhelmingly pessimistic about the economy in the next six months in the Midwest, regardless of whether or not the rail strike is resolved.

<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/2021/6/1622642233344.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said according to his monthly survey of Midwest supply managers, the economy is weaker than it has been in a couple of years."This is the worst reading we've had since the beginning of the pandemic, that would be in May of 2020," Goss said. "The overall index dropped below growth-neutral. Supply managers are not very optimistic about the future, either. Things are just not what we'd like to see in our report."The issues that are ongoing after the pandemic could be exacerbated by the national railroad labor dispute."Weaknesses are finding and hiring qualified workers," Goss said. "Sixty-five percent of the supply managers said they had few applicants for the jobs that they have posted. In other words, nobody's showing up. This is constraining growth. Of course, we are staring down at a potential rail strike. We'll have to see what happens in Congress, there. That would sort of seal the deal."Though Congress is pushing through a deal to try to keep the railroads at work, Goss would rather have seen it handled differently."There are a lot of workers directly employed by rail companies," Goss said. "Also, there are indirect impacts to agriculture, to ethanol. The list is long of industries that would be negatively affected. I'm on the side of thinking this should be settled by the parties themselves, but it doesn't appear that's going to happen."Supply managers are overwhelmingly pessimistic about the economy in the next six months in the Midwest, regardless of whether or not the rail strike is resolved.<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;

Goss: Survey shows weaker economy, lowest numbers since 2020

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Save money and shop local in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/downtown.hutchinson/?__cft__[0]=AZW81F6OqI4YwzuuYDK5zpP5kke007mWHse3w3Qc_EVFw_TmT6ccWTxUuvdL6XUwoyNhlbYXP7gCB26SiunaFLdVYi7XDNrGtDXDnpDFnzabd5ZQfNrpdCDnyqPreZrwK6Bcfd1-cfq1GQNtvxEog_Z6N11ZyFjakFXNcWhhw44dpDtcUcqMDmrH6rN0aibP3nc&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Downtown Hutchinson</a>! Look out for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/dutchindowntownhutch?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZW81F6OqI4YwzuuYDK5zpP5kke007mWHse3w3Qc_EVFw_TmT6ccWTxUuvdL6XUwoyNhlbYXP7gCB26SiunaFLdVYi7XDNrGtDXDnpDFnzabd5ZQfNrpdCDnyqPreZrwK6Bcfd1-cfq1GQNtvxEog_Z6N11ZyFjakFXNcWhhw44dpDtcUcqMDmrH6rN0aibP3nc&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#DutchInDowntownhutch</a> and save money daily at a local business between Dec. 2 and Dec. 24.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dec. 2nd- Reffner's-10% off Regular Items Dec. 3rd- Board &amp; Brush-from 1 to 4 p.m. Make &amp; Take event 2 for $25 PLUS 35% off any December PYP registration using code DUTCH.

Dec. 5th- Amelia's-Amelia's Cash with $50 purchase Dec. 6th- Bookends-10% off your purchase Dec. 7th- Pools Plus-20% off all hot tub chemicals and accessories Dec. 8th- Smith's Market-Free sample bag of nostalgic candy Dec. 9th- Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery-50% off all Christmas themed and pottery items! Dec. 10th- Apron Strings-Free Gift with purchase

Dec. 12th- Brick House Boutique-Free Gift with purchase! Dec. 13th- Hickory Stik-10% off regular priced menu item. Dec. 14th- Crow &amp; Co Book Store-10% off book purchases Wednesday and Thursday. Dec. 15th Salvation Army-Furniture and interior decor items 50% off, discount at register. Dec 16th- Splinters-N-Rust-Bonus $10 on in-store gift card purchases and FREE host project for private events booked in January or February. Dec. 17th- Holly's Sweet Treats-Free Gift with purchase and sweets with Santa

Dec. 19th- A Guy Named Kass-BOGO Free on any Personalized Drinkware Dec. 22nd-Toy Depot-22% storewide for Mark's Birthday. Dec 23rd- Sherman Street Emporium Antiques and Boutique Mall-10% off your purchase.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1669910144471.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Save money and shop local in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/downtown.hutchinson/?__cft__[0]=AZW81F6OqI4YwzuuYDK5zpP5kke007mWHse3w3Qc_EVFw_TmT6ccWTxUuvdL6XUwoyNhlbYXP7gCB26SiunaFLdVYi7XDNrGtDXDnpDFnzabd5ZQfNrpdCDnyqPreZrwK6Bcfd1-cfq1GQNtvxEog_Z6N11ZyFjakFXNcWhhw44dpDtcUcqMDmrH6rN0aibP3nc&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Downtown Hutchinson</a>! Look out for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/dutchindowntownhutch?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZW81F6OqI4YwzuuYDK5zpP5kke007mWHse3w3Qc_EVFw_TmT6ccWTxUuvdL6XUwoyNhlbYXP7gCB26SiunaFLdVYi7XDNrGtDXDnpDFnzabd5ZQfNrpdCDnyqPreZrwK6Bcfd1-cfq1GQNtvxEog_Z6N11ZyFjakFXNcWhhw44dpDtcUcqMDmrH6rN0aibP3nc&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#DutchInDowntownhutch</a> and save money daily at a local business between Dec. 2 and Dec. 24.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here is the full list:Dec. 2nd- Reffner's-10% off Regular Items Dec. 3rd- Board &amp; Brush-from 1 to 4 p.m. Make &amp; Take event 2 for $25 PLUS 35% off any December PYP registration using code DUTCH.Dec. 5th- Amelia's-Amelia's Cash with $50 purchase Dec. 6th- Bookends-10% off your purchase Dec. 7th- Pools Plus-20% off all hot tub chemicals and accessories Dec. 8th- Smith's Market-Free sample bag of nostalgic candy Dec. 9th- Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery-50% off all Christmas themed and pottery items! Dec. 10th- Apron Strings-Free Gift with purchase Dec. 12th- Brick House Boutique-Free Gift with purchase! Dec. 13th- Hickory Stik-10% off regular priced menu item. Dec. 14th- Crow &amp; Co Book Store-10% off book purchases Wednesday and Thursday. Dec. 15th Salvation Army-Furniture and interior decor items 50% off, discount at register. Dec 16th- Splinters-N-Rust-Bonus $10 on in-store gift card purchases and FREE host project for private events booked in January or February. Dec. 17th- Holly's Sweet Treats-Free Gift with purchase and sweets with SantaDec. 19th- A Guy Named Kass-BOGO Free on any Personalized Drinkware Dec. 22nd-Toy Depot-22% storewide for Mark's Birthday. Dec 23rd- Sherman Street Emporium Antiques and Boutique Mall-10% off your purchase.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Downtown Hutchinson doing holiday discounts

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kroger Co. announced on Thursday its results for the Third Quarter of 2022. The parent company of Dillons delivered what its CEO calls 'strong results' in Q3.

Comments from Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen

"Kroger achieved strong results in the third quarter as we continue to execute our&nbsp;Leading with Fresh and Accelerating with Digital&nbsp;strategy. Our associates are doing an outstanding job delivering a full, fresh and friendly experience across our seamless store and digital ecosystem.

Kroger's value proposition, which includes providing great quality, fresh products at affordable prices, data-driven promotions, trusted&nbsp;Our Brands&nbsp;products and an industry-leading fuel rewards program, is resonating with shoppers and driving increased customer loyalty. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This quarter demonstrates the strength of our approach to growing our business. By delivering for our customers, investing in our associates and supporting our communities, we are creating attractive and sustainable total returns for our shareholders."

Total company sales were $34.2 billion in the third quarter, compared to $31.9 billion for the same period last year. Excluding fuel, sales increased 6.4% compared to the same period last year.

Gross margin was 21.4% of sales for the third quarter. The FIFO gross margin rate, excluding fuel, decreased 5 basis points compared to the same period last year. This result reflected Kroger's ability to effectively manage higher product cost inflation and shrink through strong sourcing practices, while also helping customers manage their budgets and keeping prices competitive.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668699088726.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kroger Co. announced on Thursday its results for the Third Quarter of 2022. The parent company of Dillons delivered what its CEO calls 'strong results' in Q3.Third Quarter Highlights include:<ul>
 <li>Identical Sales without fuel&nbsp;increased 6.9%</li><li>Operating Profit of $841 million; Adjusted FIFO Operating Profit of $1,094 million</li><li>EPS&nbsp;of $0.55; Adjusted EPS of $0.88</li><li>Company is executing its go-to-market strategy to deliver value for customers</li><li>Our Brands&nbsp;identical sales increased 10.4%</li><li>Digital sales grew 10%</li><li>Fresh Produce Initiative accelerated with a total of 1,252 stores certified, driving higher identical sales</li>
 </ul>Comments from Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen"Kroger achieved strong results in the third quarter as we continue to execute our&nbsp;Leading with Fresh and Accelerating with Digital&nbsp;strategy. Our associates are doing an outstanding job delivering a full, fresh and friendly experience across our seamless store and digital ecosystem.Kroger's value proposition, which includes providing great quality, fresh products at affordable prices, data-driven promotions, trusted&nbsp;Our Brands&nbsp;products and an industry-leading fuel rewards program, is resonating with shoppers and driving increased customer loyalty. &nbsp;&nbsp;This quarter demonstrates the strength of our approach to growing our business. By delivering for our customers, investing in our associates and supporting our communities, we are creating attractive and sustainable total returns for our shareholders."Total company sales were $34.2 billion in the third quarter, compared to $31.9 billion for the same period last year. Excluding fuel, sales increased 6.4% compared to the same period last year.Gross margin was 21.4% of sales for the third quarter. The FIFO gross margin rate, excluding fuel, decreased 5 basis points compared to the same period last year. This result reflected Kroger's ability to effectively manage higher product cost inflation and shrink through strong sourcing practices, while also helping customers manage their budgets and keeping prices competitive.<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;

Kroger announces 3Q earnings

The National Weather Service office in Wichita has issued a Wind Advisory from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday.

South winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected over portions of central and south central Kansas

Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects.

  Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1669899471486.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service office in Wichita has issued a Wind Advisory from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday.South winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected over portions of central and south central KansasGusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.<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;

Wind Advisory Thursday

NEWTON, Kan. — Items celebrating the City of Newton's Sesquicentennial are available for purchase for the holidays.

Limited quantities of sleeves of three golf balls and Christmas ornaments with the Newton150 logo are available while supplies last. 

Sleeves of golf balls are $11 plus tax, while ornaments are $4 plus tax. 

Two styles of t-shirts, one with the Newton150 logo and one saying "Waiting On Trains Since 1872" also are available for $20 plus tax. 

Purchases may be made at the Utility Billing Department at Newton City Hall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669829710434.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — Items celebrating the City of Newton's Sesquicentennial are available for purchase for the holidays.Limited quantities of sleeves of three golf balls and Christmas ornaments with the Newton150 logo are available while supplies last. Sleeves of golf balls are $11 plus tax, while ornaments are $4 plus tax. Two styles of t-shirts, one with the Newton150 logo and one saying "Waiting On Trains Since 1872" also are available for $20 plus tax. Purchases may be made at the Utility Billing Department at Newton City Hall.

Christmas ornaments, shirts for Newton 150 available

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson reminds citizens of the Community Workforce Development Grant Program, a competitive grant that will provide grants funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of up to $100,000 per project/program. 

This grant program is designed to solicit ideas and solutions from the community on how the city can increase creative programs that would educate, train, and attract/retain talented individuals into the community. 

This includes a strong focus on job training programs for a full array of age groups, from school co-op apprenticeships, and scholarships/loan repayment to attract young workers to job training programs for displaced workers. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson reminds citizens of the Community Workforce Development Grant Program, a competitive grant that will provide grants funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of up to $100,000 per project/program. This grant program is designed to solicit ideas and solutions from the community on how the city can increase creative programs that would educate, train, and attract/retain talented individuals into the community. This includes a strong focus on job training programs for a full array of age groups, from school co-op apprenticeships, and scholarships/loan repayment to attract young workers to job training programs for displaced workers. Applications are being taken now and will be due by December 30, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. via email at <a href="mailto:arpaworkforce@hutchgov.com">arpaworkforce@hutchgov.com</a>.Eligible Applicants for this Grant Notice of Funding Availability include the following:• Private and Public-Higher Education• Non-Profit Organizations• For Profit/Non-Profit Partnerships• Faith Based Organizations• Independent/Public School DistrictsThe official application is at <a href="http://www.hutchgov.com/ARPA">www.hutchgov.com/ARPA</a>.<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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