To make a donation in support of the effort text "IAN" to 90999 or click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">HERE</a>&nbsp;or the image above to donate online.

The Robert E. And Patricia Schmidt Foundation recently donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross to help support recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian.

The Red Cross has dispatched multiple vehicles, which will most likely be deployed for weeks, and the foundation's gift will help support the volunteers manning the vehicles and help restock supplies.

"Our hearts go out to those effected by this devastating storm," said Schmidt Foundation Chairman Gary Shorman, "and we offer our sincere thanks to the Red Cross for offering much-needed assistance during this recovery.

"The mission of the Red Cross is an admirable one, and we'd urge our communities to do what they can to help by donating."

To make a donation in support of the effort text "IAN" to 90999 or click <a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">HERE</a> to donate online.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664809523581.png" alt="Lori and Pat Loney, Red Cross volunteers from Derby, Kansas, arrived in Florida on Saturday morning following a 20+ hour drive." />
 <figcaption>Lori and Pat Loney, Red Cross volunteers from Derby, Kansas, arrived in Florida on Saturday morning following a 20+ hour drive.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">
<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664837188306.png"/>
</a></div>To make a donation in support of the effort text "IAN" to 90999 or click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">HERE</a>&nbsp;or the image above to donate online.The Robert E. And Patricia Schmidt Foundation recently donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross to help support recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian.The Red Cross has dispatched multiple vehicles, which will most likely be deployed for weeks, and the foundation's gift will help support the volunteers manning the vehicles and help restock supplies."Our hearts go out to those effected by this devastating storm," said Schmidt Foundation Chairman Gary Shorman, "and we offer our sincere thanks to the Red Cross for offering much-needed assistance during this recovery."The mission of the Red Cross is an admirable one, and we'd urge our communities to do what they can to help by donating."To make a donation in support of the effort text "IAN" to 90999 or click <a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">HERE</a> to donate online.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664809714527.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Schmidt Foundation gift will aid Ian recovery efforts

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Operation: Blackbird, a celebration focusing on the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird is this weekend. The planes flew three times the speed of sound at the edge of space. Flown from 1964-1990, they were used for reconnaissance and for engineering and flight tests. In 1995, Hutchinson residents watched as an entire addition to the Cosmosphere was constructed around a flown SR-71.

"There are going to be sixteen honored guests who were the pilots, reconnaissance officers, so they always flew as a team, the pilot and then the RSO, who was part navigator, mostly photographer and then, their maintenance crews and a historian from Skunk Works," said Mimi Meredith with Cosmosphere. "He is now at Virgin Galactic. It's just an amazing lineup."

Festivities begin with a meet and greet in Cosmosphere’s Grand Lobby under the SR-71 on Friday, October 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. then there is a full slate of Saturday events.

"It all begins Saturday morning at 10 a.m. in our lobby," Meridith said. "Also, in the Fee Family classrooms. In the Fee Family classroom, there will be a panel discussion with a pilot and an RSO officer, some maintenance crew members and that will all be moderated. Steve Justice will also be a part of that panel. He's the Skunk Works historian."

The name "Skunk Works" and the skunk design are now registered trademarks of the Lockheed Martin Corporation, who were the innovators of the next generation of aircraft for decades, including the SR-71 Blackbird. The crew members will also be giving back to the next generation while they are in town.

"We do have another private event that I'm really excited about," Meridith said. "This is for area college students. We'll be having folks come from WSU Tech and students from KU school of engineering, our own Hutchinson Community College and possibly K-State Salina on Friday evening to have dinner under the Blackbird with this team."

Below is the Saturday schedule of public events.

Jerry Glasser, SR-71 Pilot and Panel Moderator

Rub shoulders with some of the greats of the SR-71 world underneath the Cosmosphere’s SR-71.

Location: Off the Cosmosphere’s Grand Lobby, by the SR-71 exhibit

With Richard Graham, SR-71 Instructor Pilot, Squadron Commander, Wing Commander &amp; Author

The Complete Book of the SR-71 Blackbird is available for purchase here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665671362675.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Operation: Blackbird, a celebration focusing on the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird is this weekend. The planes flew three times the speed of sound at the edge of space. Flown from 1964-1990, they were used for reconnaissance and for engineering and flight tests. In 1995, Hutchinson residents watched as an entire addition to the Cosmosphere was constructed around a flown SR-71."There are going to be sixteen honored guests who were the pilots, reconnaissance officers, so they always flew as a team, the pilot and then the RSO, who was part navigator, mostly photographer and then, their maintenance crews and a historian from Skunk Works," said Mimi Meredith with Cosmosphere. "He is now at Virgin Galactic. It's just an amazing lineup."Festivities begin with a meet and greet in Cosmosphere’s Grand Lobby under the SR-71 on Friday, October 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. then there is a full slate of Saturday events."It all begins Saturday morning at 10 a.m. in our lobby," Meridith said. "Also, in the Fee Family classrooms. In the Fee Family classroom, there will be a panel discussion with a pilot and an RSO officer, some maintenance crew members and that will all be moderated. Steve Justice will also be a part of that panel. He's the Skunk Works historian."The name "Skunk Works" and the skunk design are now registered trademarks of the Lockheed Martin Corporation, who were the innovators of the next generation of aircraft for decades, including the SR-71 Blackbird. The crew members will also be giving back to the next generation while they are in town."We do have another private event that I'm really excited about," Meridith said. "This is for area college students. We'll be having folks come from WSU Tech and students from KU school of engineering, our own Hutchinson Community College and possibly K-State Salina on Friday evening to have dinner under the Blackbird with this team."Below is the Saturday schedule of public events.Saturday, October 1510:00-11:30 a.m.SR-71 Panel DiscussionLocation: Fee Family ClassroomJerry Glasser, SR-71 Pilot and Panel ModeratorJohn Manzi, SR-71 RSORobby Butterfield, SR-71 MaintenanceDave Burns, SR-71 Maintenance10:00-11:30 a.m.Rub shoulders with some of the greats of the SR-71 world underneath the Cosmosphere’s SR-71.SR-71 Meet &amp; GreetLocation: Grand Lobby under the SR-7110:00-11:30 a.m.Book SigningLocation: Off the Cosmosphere’s Grand Lobby, by the SR-71 exhibitWith Richard Graham, SR-71 Instructor Pilot, Squadron Commander, Wing Commander &amp; AuthorThe Complete Book of the SR-71 Blackbird is available for purchase here.1:00-3:00 p.m.SR-71 Breakout Groups1. OperationsModerated by Ed YeildingLocation: Lower Level of Museum Rotunda2. Maintenance/EngineModerated by Robby ButterfieldLocation: Upper Level of Museum Rotunda3. TrainingModerator TBDLocation: Observation Deck4. Technology DevelopmentModerated by Steve JusticeLocation: Upper Level of Museum Rotunda

Operation: Blackbird this weekend at Cosmosphere

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The annual Reno County Tax Sale will be held next Tuesday, October 18th at 9:00 a.m. in Memorial Hall located at 101 South Walnut in Hutchinson. 

 Properties will be auctioned off at the tax sale and all bidders must register in person the day of the sale.  If you would like to bid on properties bring photo ID with you to the sale. 

 All properties must be paid by cash or check the day of the sale.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The list of properties will be updated at&nbsp;<a href="https://reib.org/2022/09/21/reno-co-tax-sale-40-case-2022-cv-000099/">https://reib.org/2022/09/21/reno-co-tax-sale-40-case-2022-cv-000099/</a>&nbsp;up until the day of the sale.

Sale Date: Thursday, October 18th, 2022 - 9:00 a.m.

Location: Memorial Hall, 101 South Walnut, Hutchinson, KS

1. All bidders must register and obtain a number to be used during the auction. Only individual persons or other legal entities will be allowed to register to bid. Anyone wishing to register a partnership or corporation must have the exact name of the entity, have the authority to purchase property in its name and be prepared to identify the partners, officers, directors, and stockholders. (See #3 below)

2. Property will not be sold to a person who is not present and has not registered as a bidder.

3. You cannot bid on any parcel if you were the owner at any time when any part of the tax lien became due. Basically, if you have had some ownership connection with a sale property when the taxes became due, do not bid before checking your eligibility to buy. If you have any questions regarding your eligibility to bid or the terms of sale, please ask any representative of Reno County or the auctioneers prior to commencement of the bidding process.

4. If within ten (10) years any parcel of real estate purchased at this auction is transferred, sold or given to a person who had the right of redemption prior to sale, the person transferring the property may be liable for an amount equal to the original judgment lien against the property.

5. Terms of the sale: CASH. Only first party personal checks signed by the registered bidder on Kansas banks will be accepted, unless otherwise approved by the County Counselor. Checks pre-signed by a party not present at the sale will not be accepted. All checks will be deposited immediately by the Sheriff following the sale. ALL SALES ARE FINAL subject to approval of the Court and any right of redemption allowed the IRS where applicable (See Paragraph 10 below).

6. As a result of this Sheriff's Sale, all 2021 and prior year's taxes will be discharged. The purchaser will be responsible for payment of all taxes and specials for 2022 and subsequent years. With respect to properties located in any city, there may be mowing, or other charges added to the 2022 taxes for work done from July 1, 2021 to June 1, 2022. Mowing charges incurred after July 1, 2022, may appear on the 2023 tax statement.

7. The Sheriff is selling real estate only. He has no authority to sell personal property left on the premises, including mobile homes. If there is personal property left on the premises, you may wish to seek the advice of an attorney regarding your rights and responsibilities. The County Counselor will not provide you with legal advice.

8. PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS. Neither Reno County, the Sheriff, nor any of their agents, make any representation concerning the value, quality, condition, zoning limitations or potential uses of property offered for sale. The buyer is solely responsible for all such determinations.

9. A Sheriff's Deed will be issued in the name of the registered bidder only. A Sheriff's Deed is similar to a Quitclaim Deed and marketable title is not guaranteed. The property is sold subject to valid easements, covenants, restrictions of record, taxes and special assessments as indicated in paragraph 6 above, and the IRS redemption rights outlined below. Purchasers of property subject to the IRS redemption right will not receive a deed until 120 days following sale or a refund if redemption occurs. For other properties, expect three or up to four weeks before the Court approves the sale, and your deed is filed.

10. The Internal Revenue Service has a 120-day redemption period after the sale and the properties remaining in this sale in which the IRS has an interest are: 6899, 6921, 6922, 7003.

11. We will collect the fee charged by the Register of Deeds to record your Deed. It will be $21.00 for the first page and $17 for additional pages. Your deed will be filed directly with the Register of Deeds on your behalf. After recording, the original deed will be mailed to you at the address you provide at the registration desk.

12. REFUNDS. In the event the Court does not confirm the sale of a parcel, or in the event the Court should later vacate or declare the sale to be invalid based upon a legal challenge, the Buyer is entitled only to a refund of the purchase money and the recording fee. In all other instances, sales are final.

13. TITLE INSURANCE. You should consider the limitations on the issuance of title insurance on&nbsp;parcels purchased at a Sheriff’s Sale. Most title companies will not issue a policy of title insurance on a tax sale property until one (1) year following the sale. One title company with a Hutchinson office has established a policy that it will not issue a title insurance policy on any tax sale property for fifteen (15) years following the sale, if it concludes the property owner was not served personally with Summons. You should be advised that Kansas law permits service by other means, including publication notice, if personal service cannot be obtained with due diligence. There is at least one title company in Hutchinson which will insure the title after one (1) year if alternate service of Summons is made.

14. If you have any questions or need additional information following the sale, you may call Patrick Hoffman or Jubilee Critchfield at (620) 694-2926. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665657099674.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The annual Reno County Tax Sale will be held next Tuesday, October 18th at 9:00 a.m. in Memorial Hall located at 101 South Walnut in Hutchinson. Properties will be auctioned off at the tax sale and all bidders must register in person the day of the sale. If you would like to bid on properties bring photo ID with you to the sale. All properties must be paid by cash or check the day of the sale.&nbsp;&nbsp;The list of properties will be updated at&nbsp;<a href="https://reib.org/2022/09/21/reno-co-tax-sale-40-case-2022-cv-000099/">https://reib.org/2022/09/21/reno-co-tax-sale-40-case-2022-cv-000099/</a>&nbsp;up until the day of the sale.RENO COUNTY, KANSAS TAX FORECLOSURE SALESale Date: Thursday, October 18th, 2022 - 9:00 a.m.Location: Memorial Hall, 101 South Walnut, Hutchinson, KSCASE NO. 22 CV 991. All bidders must register and obtain a number to be used during the auction. Only individual persons or other legal entities will be allowed to register to bid. Anyone wishing to register a partnership or corporation must have the exact name of the entity, have the authority to purchase property in its name and be prepared to identify the partners, officers, directors, and stockholders. (See #3 below)2. Property will not be sold to a person who is not present and has not registered as a bidder.3. You cannot bid on any parcel if you were the owner at any time when any part of the tax lien became due. Basically, if you have had some ownership connection with a sale property when the taxes became due, do not bid before checking your eligibility to buy. If you have any questions regarding your eligibility to bid or the terms of sale, please ask any representative of Reno County or the auctioneers prior to commencement of the bidding process.4. If within ten (10) years any parcel of real estate purchased at this auction is transferred, sold or given to a person who had the right of redemption prior to sale, the person transferring the property may be liable for an amount equal to the original judgment lien against the property.5. Terms of the sale: CASH. Only first party personal checks signed by the registered bidder on Kansas banks will be accepted, unless otherwise approved by the County Counselor. Checks pre-signed by a party not present at the sale will not be accepted. All checks will be deposited immediately by the Sheriff following the sale. ALL SALES ARE FINAL subject to approval of the Court and any right of redemption allowed the IRS where applicable (See Paragraph 10 below).6. As a result of this Sheriff's Sale, all 2021 and prior year's taxes will be discharged. The purchaser will be responsible for payment of all taxes and specials for 2022 and subsequent years. With respect to properties located in any city, there may be mowing, or other charges added to the 2022 taxes for work done from July 1, 2021 to June 1, 2022. Mowing charges incurred after July 1, 2022, may appear on the 2023 tax statement.7. The Sheriff is selling real estate only. He has no authority to sell personal property left on the premises, including mobile homes. If there is personal property left on the premises, you may wish to seek the advice of an attorney regarding your rights and responsibilities. The County Counselor will not provide you with legal advice.8. PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS. Neither Reno County, the Sheriff, nor any of their agents, make any representation concerning the value, quality, condition, zoning limitations or potential uses of property offered for sale. The buyer is solely responsible for all such determinations.9. A Sheriff's Deed will be issued in the name of the registered bidder only. A Sheriff's Deed is similar to a Quitclaim Deed and marketable title is not guaranteed. The property is sold subject to valid easements, covenants, restrictions of record, taxes and special assessments as indicated in paragraph 6 above, and the IRS redemption rights outlined below. Purchasers of property subject to the IRS redemption right will not receive a deed until 120 days following sale or a refund if redemption occurs. For other properties, expect three or up to four weeks before the Court approves the sale, and your deed is filed.10. The Internal Revenue Service has a 120-day redemption period after the sale and the properties remaining in this sale in which the IRS has an interest are: 6899, 6921, 6922, 7003.11. We will collect the fee charged by the Register of Deeds to record your Deed. It will be $21.00 for the first page and $17 for additional pages. Your deed will be filed directly with the Register of Deeds on your behalf. After recording, the original deed will be mailed to you at the address you provide at the registration desk.12. REFUNDS. In the event the Court does not confirm the sale of a parcel, or in the event the Court should later vacate or declare the sale to be invalid based upon a legal challenge, the Buyer is entitled only to a refund of the purchase money and the recording fee. In all other instances, sales are final.13. TITLE INSURANCE. You should consider the limitations on the issuance of title insurance on&nbsp;parcels purchased at a Sheriff’s Sale. Most title companies will not issue a policy of title insurance on a tax sale property until one (1) year following the sale. One title company with a Hutchinson office has established a policy that it will not issue a title insurance policy on any tax sale property for fifteen (15) years following the sale, if it concludes the property owner was not served personally with Summons. You should be advised that Kansas law permits service by other means, including publication notice, if personal service cannot be obtained with due diligence. There is at least one title company in Hutchinson which will insure the title after one (1) year if alternate service of Summons is made.14. If you have any questions or need additional information following the sale, you may call Patrick Hoffman or Jubilee Critchfield at (620) 694-2926.

Reno County Tax Sale next week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® — to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week this week.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape”, works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires.

"At school, there is an evacuation plan, whether it be for tornadoes or for fire or for any of the other rest of the stuff that's going on in this world," said Hutchinson Fire Marshal Mike Cain. "They have to have a plan and they have to practice that plan, so they have fire drills."

You may have as little as two minutes (or even less time) to safely escape a home fire from the time the smoke alarm sounds.

"Fire is incredibly fast now, with all of the stuff that the furniture is made of these days," Cain said. "Couches and recliners, they're all petroleum-based foam, so they are just gasoline sitting there."

Hutchinson Fire Department wants to share these key home fire escape planning tips:

· Make sure your plan meets the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

· Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every levelof your home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.

· Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows open easily.

· Have an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone should meet.

· Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year with everyone in the household, including guests. Practice at least once during the day and at night.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Hutchinson, please contact the Hutchinson Fire Department at 620-694-2871.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641488788322.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® — to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week this week.This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape”, works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires."At school, there is an evacuation plan, whether it be for tornadoes or for fire or for any of the other rest of the stuff that's going on in this world," said Hutchinson Fire Marshal Mike Cain. "They have to have a plan and they have to practice that plan, so they have fire drills."You may have as little as two minutes (or even less time) to safely escape a home fire from the time the smoke alarm sounds."Fire is incredibly fast now, with all of the stuff that the furniture is made of these days," Cain said. "Couches and recliners, they're all petroleum-based foam, so they are just gasoline sitting there."Hutchinson Fire Department wants to share these key home fire escape planning tips:· Make sure your plan meets the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.· Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every levelof your home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.· Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows open easily.· Have an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone should meet.· Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year with everyone in the household, including guests. Practice at least once during the day and at night.To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Hutchinson, please contact the Hutchinson Fire Department at 620-694-2871.

Hutchinson Fire commemorating Fire Prevention Week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Republican primary winners in Reno County are holding their own event later this month, after they did not attend the Chamber and NAACP event on Tuesday.

"I, your State Senator, will be hosting a forum for the real Republican candidates, on Tuesday, October 25 at 7 p.m. at PrairieStar Health Center," said Sen. Mark Steffen. "It should be a great event. We're going to have desserts from Kathie Girst and her bakery. We're going to let folks mingle with the candidates and then we're going to hold a question and answer session. I think it will be a real opportunity for education instead of confrontation. That's kind of how I'm billing it."

Steffen didn't see the chamber's potential questions to the candidates as fair.

"It's framed in a very liberal format and puts the Republican responder on their heels from the very start," Steffen said. "We don't need that. It's just confusing. It's confusing to the voters. It's confusing to the candidates and it doesn't move governance forward."

Steffen also sees the write in campaigns of losers in the Republican primary as a way for the opposing party to try to sneak candidates in that are not ideologically consistent with what he sees and what voters have said through their actions in the primary is the position of the party. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573042702099.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Republican primary winners in Reno County are holding their own event later this month, after they did not attend the Chamber and NAACP event on Tuesday."I, your State Senator, will be hosting a forum for the real Republican candidates, on Tuesday, October 25 at 7 p.m. at PrairieStar Health Center," said Sen. Mark Steffen. "It should be a great event. We're going to have desserts from Kathie Girst and her bakery. We're going to let folks mingle with the candidates and then we're going to hold a question and answer session. I think it will be a real opportunity for education instead of confrontation. That's kind of how I'm billing it."Steffen didn't see the chamber's potential questions to the candidates as fair."It's framed in a very liberal format and puts the Republican responder on their heels from the very start," Steffen said. "We don't need that. It's just confusing. It's confusing to the voters. It's confusing to the candidates and it doesn't move governance forward."Steffen also sees the write in campaigns of losers in the Republican primary as a way for the opposing party to try to sneak candidates in that are not ideologically consistent with what he sees and what voters have said through their actions in the primary is the position of the party.

Republican primary winners event Oct. 25

NICKERSON, Kan. —IdeaTek has expanded its fiber footprint in Nickerson, giving businesses and households access to gigabit speeds at affordable prices.

The expansion furthers the company’s mission of providing Internet Freedom to Kansas communities, said Daniel Friesen, IdeaTek’s Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer.

“We are extremely excited for the opportunities this much-needed fiber investment will bring to Nickerson,” he said. “Our mission of internet freedom means we believe everyone should have access to high-speed fiber internet – no matter where they live. We look forward to providing residents and businesses with the world-class connectivity they deserve.”

Last year, IdeaTek deployed wireless internet to the city and surrounding residences. It was developed as a temporary solution for remote areas.&nbsp;

Friesen said that investment in fiber is a scalable solution for Kansas’ future growth. “Our mission is to build to the standards of the future, not today.”

With this rollout, IdeaTek offers unlimited, uncapped, symmetrical speeds of up to 2 gigabits per second. IdeaTek also does not require long-term contracts.&nbsp;

The expansion into Nickerson is one of several community builds IdeaTek has planned for 2022. Crews are also finishing constructing fiber in Lindsborg and Goddard.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584960838544.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. —IdeaTek has expanded its fiber footprint in Nickerson, giving businesses and households access to gigabit speeds at affordable prices.The expansion furthers the company’s mission of providing Internet Freedom to Kansas communities, said Daniel Friesen, IdeaTek’s Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer.“We are extremely excited for the opportunities this much-needed fiber investment will bring to Nickerson,” he said. “Our mission of internet freedom means we believe everyone should have access to high-speed fiber internet – no matter where they live. We look forward to providing residents and businesses with the world-class connectivity they deserve.”Last year, IdeaTek deployed wireless internet to the city and surrounding residences. It was developed as a temporary solution for remote areas.&nbsp;Friesen said that investment in fiber is a scalable solution for Kansas’ future growth. “Our mission is to build to the standards of the future, not today.”With this rollout, IdeaTek offers unlimited, uncapped, symmetrical speeds of up to 2 gigabits per second. IdeaTek also does not require long-term contracts.&nbsp;The expansion into Nickerson is one of several community builds IdeaTek has planned for 2022. Crews are also finishing constructing fiber in Lindsborg and Goddard.

IdeaTek places gigabit fiber in Nickerson

LANGDON, Kan. —Fairfield USD 310 received notice from KSDE that the district is being awarded 2022 Kansans Can Star Recognition Awards in three areas: 

Social-Emotional Growth (Silver); Graduation (Bronze); and Kindergarten Readiness (Bronze).

The Kansas Star Recognition Program seeks to provide Kansas districts an opportunity to validate the coherent, rigorous and sustained commitment required to improve adult and student outcomes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595965876065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LANGDON, Kan. —Fairfield USD 310 received notice from KSDE that the district is being awarded 2022 Kansans Can Star Recognition Awards in three areas: Social-Emotional Growth (Silver); Graduation (Bronze); and Kindergarten Readiness (Bronze).The Kansas Star Recognition Program seeks to provide Kansas districts an opportunity to validate the coherent, rigorous and sustained commitment required to improve adult and student outcomes.

Fairfield USD 310 receives STAR Awards from KSDE

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The Pretty Prairie USD 311 School Board is looking to work up another bond issue for the district, but they are seeking some help.

"The Board unanimously agrees we've got to do something with a bond issue," Superintendent Ashley Anderson said. "We've got to generate money quickly to pay for some of these projects. We can then strategically use capital outlay money to our yearly projects and get some things going that way."

Each board member brought their thoughts on what bond priorities should be to the board meeting that took place Monday night.

"Each of our board members came with a presentation prepared, kind of outlined a few questions," Anderson said. "I think that it was important that the public hear, you know, like a timeline, when do they want to have the next election? What's their project list? The gym is a big issue, so how did they feel on that? How do they feel about our communication last time? Could it be better? What were their ideas? Each of them came prepared and gave a little one to three minute speech on their answers to each of those questions. It was really good for us just to hear from each member, knowing where each person stood and we kind of walked away from it. We didn't do any further discussion. We just kind of heard everybody and were kind of walking away to process."

The next board meeting will be a night where not only USD 311 members can weigh in.

"We actually have a joint meeting on the 24th with the City Council," Anderson said. "It's kind of taking this approach of, here's our needs and then here's our wants and seeing if any of those align with things that the city wants to do, as well. Maybe we can come up with a community center idea versus just a gymnasium for the school."

Though it obviously won't be on an equal scale, the high school and community college in Colby play their games at the Colby Event Center, which is owned by the city. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662516584762.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostPRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The Pretty Prairie USD 311 School Board is looking to work up another bond issue for the district, but they are seeking some help."The Board unanimously agrees we've got to do something with a bond issue," Superintendent Ashley Anderson said. "We've got to generate money quickly to pay for some of these projects. We can then strategically use capital outlay money to our yearly projects and get some things going that way."Each board member brought their thoughts on what bond priorities should be to the board meeting that took place Monday night."Each of our board members came with a presentation prepared, kind of outlined a few questions," Anderson said. "I think that it was important that the public hear, you know, like a timeline, when do they want to have the next election? What's their project list? The gym is a big issue, so how did they feel on that? How do they feel about our communication last time? Could it be better? What were their ideas? Each of them came prepared and gave a little one to three minute speech on their answers to each of those questions. It was really good for us just to hear from each member, knowing where each person stood and we kind of walked away from it. We didn't do any further discussion. We just kind of heard everybody and were kind of walking away to process."The next board meeting will be a night where not only USD 311 members can weigh in."We actually have a joint meeting on the 24th with the City Council," Anderson said. "It's kind of taking this approach of, here's our needs and then here's our wants and seeing if any of those align with things that the city wants to do, as well. Maybe we can come up with a community center idea versus just a gymnasium for the school."Though it obviously won't be on an equal scale, the high school and community college in Colby play their games at the Colby Event Center, which is owned by the city.

USD 311 will need a bond issue, to talk with City Council this month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — United Way of Reno County will&nbsp;receive the EnvistaCares Challenge gift of $2,500 from Envista as a match to the generosity of the community’s donations of $86,886. in total, United Way of Reno County received $89,386 in donations during the month of September.

“Living United’ is a call to action in Reno County, Kansas.&nbsp; We are united in our quest to help our fellow citizen recover from disaster; we are united in our efforts to create financial stability in our community; and we are united in our goal to provide quality education and health resources, said Dawn Johnson, USD 308 superintendent and board chair for United Way of Reno County. “I’m proud of the quality of work and the people who make United Way of Reno County a leading organization in our community. We appreciate the support of Envista and our community to help us continue this mission.”

United Way of Reno County&nbsp;works to advance the education, income and health of Reno County residents to ensure every child succeeds, every step of the way from cradle to career and beyond. &nbsp;United Way responds to the needs of our local community while simultaneously addressing the root causes of&nbsp;key issues. They achieve this by inspiring and uniting the power of individuals, the business community, and the public and nonprofit sectors around this common goal.

“Our goal at Envista is to lead, inspire and make an impact with our giving,” said Holly Herman, branch manager for Envista Credit Union in Hutchinson. “We are honored to support United Way of Reno County and come alongside the 2022 community campaign. We are inspired by their leadership in Reno County.”

The EnvistaCares Challenge was created in April of 2019 and has helped raise more than $600,000 for local organizations. The Challenge includes an in-kind gift to the organization of a media buy that is valued at more than $12,000 and a $2,500 challenge grant. The media buy includes radio, emails, online ads, billboard, social media and interviews.&nbsp;The challenge gift provides a dollar-for-dollar match up to $2,500 for gifts given during the month that the organization is spotlighted. In 2021, Envista added the production of a storytelling video that the organization could use beyond the EnvistaCares Challenge experience.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665587682027.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — United Way of Reno County will&nbsp;receive the EnvistaCares Challenge gift of $2,500 from Envista as a match to the generosity of the community’s donations of $86,886. in total, United Way of Reno County received $89,386 in donations during the month of September.“Living United’ is a call to action in Reno County, Kansas.&nbsp; We are united in our quest to help our fellow citizen recover from disaster; we are united in our efforts to create financial stability in our community; and we are united in our goal to provide quality education and health resources, said Dawn Johnson, USD 308 superintendent and board chair for United Way of Reno County. “I’m proud of the quality of work and the people who make United Way of Reno County a leading organization in our community. We appreciate the support of Envista and our community to help us continue this mission.”United Way of Reno County&nbsp;works to advance the education, income and health of Reno County residents to ensure every child succeeds, every step of the way from cradle to career and beyond. &nbsp;United Way responds to the needs of our local community while simultaneously addressing the root causes of&nbsp;key issues. They achieve this by inspiring and uniting the power of individuals, the business community, and the public and nonprofit sectors around this common goal.“Our goal at Envista is to lead, inspire and make an impact with our giving,” said Holly Herman, branch manager for Envista Credit Union in Hutchinson. “We are honored to support United Way of Reno County and come alongside the 2022 community campaign. We are inspired by their leadership in Reno County.”The EnvistaCares Challenge was created in April of 2019 and has helped raise more than $600,000 for local organizations. The Challenge includes an in-kind gift to the organization of a media buy that is valued at more than $12,000 and a $2,500 challenge grant. The media buy includes radio, emails, online ads, billboard, social media and interviews.&nbsp;The challenge gift provides a dollar-for-dollar match up to $2,500 for gifts given during the month that the organization is spotlighted. In 2021, Envista added the production of a storytelling video that the organization could use beyond the EnvistaCares Challenge experience.

EnvistaCares Challenge Results Announced for United Way

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber and NAACP held their candidate forum on Tuesday, but without any Republican primary winner participation. As part of his opening statement at Tuesday's forum, Democratic Rep. Jason Probst talked about working together with his Republican colleagues when he is in Topeka.

"We have some really good conversations about different philosophies and different ideas and about how we can blend those together to create the best policy possible," Probst said. "I think a lot of times, there's kind of an idea that everyone is fighting all the time in Topeka. While that is certainly true some of the time, there's a lot of time that we actually have very good conversations where we can agree and where we can talk to each other and share ideas and come out of it with really good policy ideas and a deeper understanding of each other. Which I think, at the core, is what we need to get back to in government and politics. If we do a better job of understanding one another, then I think we can make better policy all around."

Probst also said that the food sales tax reduction that was passed by the Legislature was done through a conference committee and not through an amendable bill.

"We never actually voted on this sales tax bill in the House," Probst said. "There was never an opportunity for us as rank and file legislators to take a vote on this sales tax issue. The reason is that leadership was terrified of what would happen if we had a chance to start meddling with this bill. This is one area where Republicans and Democrats agreed. We thought that the food sales tax should happen now and it should happen in full. We had the money. We've never had this kind of money in the state and despite the fact there are people, so called conservatives who run all the time on wanting to give money back to the taxpayers, when they had an opportunity to do it, they did not."

Probst actually doesn't have a problem with allowing legislative oversight of administrative rules, as is on the ballot as a constitutional amendment in November. His argument is, they can do that already.

"There's a little concern about how it might be implemented and used in the legislature," Probst said. "Right now, if the legislature wanted to invalidate an administrative rule, they could create statute and pass it with a majority vote and they would be able to overturn that administrative rule. The difference is, they'd have to be smart, not lazy, and they'd have to take a little time with it. Underneath all of this is that the legislature does not take enough time with legislation. We do sloppy work. We do that because we're in a hurry and because frankly, we're not always electing the best people."

District 104 Democratic candidate Garth Strand also was at the forum and answered the same questions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665505897161.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber and NAACP held their candidate forum on Tuesday, but without any Republican primary winner participation. As part of his opening statement at Tuesday's forum, Democratic Rep. Jason Probst talked about working together with his Republican colleagues when he is in Topeka."We have some really good conversations about different philosophies and different ideas and about how we can blend those together to create the best policy possible," Probst said. "I think a lot of times, there's kind of an idea that everyone is fighting all the time in Topeka. While that is certainly true some of the time, there's a lot of time that we actually have very good conversations where we can agree and where we can talk to each other and share ideas and come out of it with really good policy ideas and a deeper understanding of each other. Which I think, at the core, is what we need to get back to in government and politics. If we do a better job of understanding one another, then I think we can make better policy all around."Probst also said that the food sales tax reduction that was passed by the Legislature was done through a conference committee and not through an amendable bill."We never actually voted on this sales tax bill in the House," Probst said. "There was never an opportunity for us as rank and file legislators to take a vote on this sales tax issue. The reason is that leadership was terrified of what would happen if we had a chance to start meddling with this bill. This is one area where Republicans and Democrats agreed. We thought that the food sales tax should happen now and it should happen in full. We had the money. We've never had this kind of money in the state and despite the fact there are people, so called conservatives who run all the time on wanting to give money back to the taxpayers, when they had an opportunity to do it, they did not."Probst actually doesn't have a problem with allowing legislative oversight of administrative rules, as is on the ballot as a constitutional amendment in November. His argument is, they can do that already."There's a little concern about how it might be implemented and used in the legislature," Probst said. "Right now, if the legislature wanted to invalidate an administrative rule, they could create statute and pass it with a majority vote and they would be able to overturn that administrative rule. The difference is, they'd have to be smart, not lazy, and they'd have to take a little time with it. Underneath all of this is that the legislature does not take enough time with legislation. We do sloppy work. We do that because we're in a hurry and because frankly, we're not always electing the best people."District 104 Democratic candidate Garth Strand also was at the forum and answered the same questions.

Probst talks function and dysfunction of legislature at forum

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler Mennonite Church is hosting a meal packaging event for The Outreach Program this holiday season.

Saturday, December 3, 2022, they need your help to package 50,000 meals. The plan is to keep the meals local and provide food for their local neighbors. 

There is a job for all ages. Contact the church if you have questions at 620-543-2733 or <a href="mailto:bmcpastor@gmail.com">bmcpastor@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665521035226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler Mennonite Church is hosting a meal packaging event for The Outreach Program this holiday season.Saturday, December 3, 2022, they need your help to package 50,000 meals. The plan is to keep the meals local and provide food for their local neighbors. There is a job for all ages. Contact the church if you have questions at 620-543-2733 or <a href="mailto:bmcpastor@gmail.com">bmcpastor@gmail.com</a>.

Buhler Mennonite Church holding meal packaging event in December

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson community is invited to join Democratic Rep. Jason Probst and Chris Courtwright, the former chief economist for the Kansas Legislature, for a discussion on the history of Kansas tax policy over the past several decades.

The event will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 17 at the Wool Market and DIY School, 420 N. Main in Hutchinson. Light refreshments will be served at this spooky Halloween-themed event.

“Every election, a lot of candidates claiming to be conservative crow about lowering taxes for working Kansas families,” Probst said. “But the truth really is terrifying - because year after year, decade after decade, those same people have been in charge and not only have they not lowered taxes - they’ve taken steps to raise Kansans’ taxes. And there’s no one in Kansas who understands that history better than Chris Courtwright. When it comes to state and local tax policy, he knows where the bodies are buried.”

Courtwright most recently served as a member of the Governor’s Council on Tax Reform. He retired in 2020 as the Chief Economist for the Kansas Legislature, after 35 years of service. During that time, he oversaw the Consensus Revenue Estimating Group, which provides economic forecasts policymakers rely on to make budget decisions. He also authored the annual Kansas Tax Facts. A noted expert in the field, Courtwright has received numerous awards and acknowledgements for his work, and has been keynote speaker and presenter for a number of policy forums, including the Kansas Economic Policy Conference and the Federal Reserve Economic Roundtable.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665505818226.jpeg" alt="Chris Courtwright" />
 <figcaption>Chris Courtwright</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson community is invited to join Democratic Rep. Jason Probst and Chris Courtwright, the former chief economist for the Kansas Legislature, for a discussion on the history of Kansas tax policy over the past several decades.The event will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 17 at the Wool Market and DIY School, 420 N. Main in Hutchinson. Light refreshments will be served at this spooky Halloween-themed event.“Every election, a lot of candidates claiming to be conservative crow about lowering taxes for working Kansas families,” Probst said. “But the truth really is terrifying - because year after year, decade after decade, those same people have been in charge and not only have they not lowered taxes - they’ve taken steps to raise Kansans’ taxes. And there’s no one in Kansas who understands that history better than Chris Courtwright. When it comes to state and local tax policy, he knows where the bodies are buried.”Courtwright most recently served as a member of the Governor’s Council on Tax Reform. He retired in 2020 as the Chief Economist for the Kansas Legislature, after 35 years of service. During that time, he oversaw the Consensus Revenue Estimating Group, which provides economic forecasts policymakers rely on to make budget decisions. He also authored the annual Kansas Tax Facts. A noted expert in the field, Courtwright has received numerous awards and acknowledgements for his work, and has been keynote speaker and presenter for a number of policy forums, including the Kansas Economic Policy Conference and the Federal Reserve Economic Roundtable.

Probst invites economist to Hutchinson for Monday event

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission decided Tuesday to use iParametrics to consult with them on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal grant from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF), but to keep their costs within the budgeted amount of $137,000, instead of&nbsp;iParametrics estimate of $300,000.

"I would hope we would not exceed the number we budgeted," said commissioner Daniel Friesen. "I felt like that was too much already. I think we had a debate on it and that's where we settled. I'm not going to argue that number again."

County Administrator Randy Partington said he could work with that.

"I'm hoping it's even less than that amount," Partington said. "That's for audit and consultant work. I'll work with Leslie and Patrick and the company to make sure that we spend as little as needed, but only use the necessary services, to keep it under that amount."

Commissioner Ron Sellers said he'd like to see the money spent as quickly as possible.

"To me, with inflation, a dollar spent today has more value than a dollar spent a year and a half from now," Sellers said. "Can we get moving on this thing?"

Partington told the board that the housing groups could do some of the background work while the compliance paperwork is being dealt with, but that the childcare side may take longer, just because they are still waiting on the survey from K-State to be processed before they make decisions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630684125903.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission decided Tuesday to use iParametrics to consult with them on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal grant from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF), but to keep their costs within the budgeted amount of $137,000, instead of&nbsp;iParametrics estimate of $300,000."I would hope we would not exceed the number we budgeted," said commissioner Daniel Friesen. "I felt like that was too much already. I think we had a debate on it and that's where we settled. I'm not going to argue that number again."County Administrator Randy Partington said he could work with that."I'm hoping it's even less than that amount," Partington said. "That's for audit and consultant work. I'll work with Leslie and Patrick and the company to make sure that we spend as little as needed, but only use the necessary services, to keep it under that amount."Commissioner Ron Sellers said he'd like to see the money spent as quickly as possible."To me, with inflation, a dollar spent today has more value than a dollar spent a year and a half from now," Sellers said. "Can we get moving on this thing?"Partington told the board that the housing groups could do some of the background work while the compliance paperwork is being dealt with, but that the childcare side may take longer, just because they are still waiting on the survey from K-State to be processed before they make decisions.

County to keep ARPA admin in budgeted number

Clarification: A previous version of this story was unclear as to the cost of the doubles division for Saturday's event. Hutch Post regrets the error.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There is a pool tournament fundraiser for Hutch High wrestling on Saturday, October 15th at American Seoul at 1514 E 4th.

Doors for the eight-ball tournament open at 11 a.m., play starts at noon.

It's $50 to enter for the singles and $100 for the doubles tournament. The tournament will be played under BCA&nbsp;(Billiard Congress of America) rules and there will be a 50% payback for the winners in each division.

There is also a raffle at the event.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clarification: A previous version of this story was unclear as to the cost of the doubles division for Saturday's event. Hutch Post regrets the error.HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There is a pool tournament fundraiser for Hutch High wrestling on Saturday, October 15th at American Seoul at 1514 E 4th.Doors for the eight-ball tournament open at 11 a.m., play starts at noon.It's $50 to enter for the singles and $100 for the doubles tournament. The tournament will be played under BCA&nbsp;(Billiard Congress of America) rules and there will be a 50% payback for the winners in each division.There is also a raffle at the event.&nbsp;

Hutch High wrestling fundraiser Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners approved Tuesday continuing the process of getting ready to renovate&nbsp;the District Attorney, District Courts, Information Technology, Human Resources, and County Administration portions of the interior of the Courthouse.

"GLMV had prepared the bid documents," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "We wanted to get it out to bid so that we could still bring it back this year, since we've been working on it. It has budget authority this year and from last year in reserves. We were wanting to get that taken care of."&nbsp;

No price tag for that approval was listed in the agenda documents. County Commissioner Ron Sellers is concerned that the scope of the project may have to change because of increased cost.

"We have money in reserve budgeted for this upgrade to the courthouse," Sellers said. "My concern is that with the inflation that's going on in construction costs and all, that we might not be able to do all that Randy suggested. I don't want to delay sending this out for bids, but is there somewhat of a simple way to get a total bid and some breakdowns?"

Bradley Doeden with GLMV said he sees the project as something that can be broken into phases if needed because of cost. He also said the process of getting all the appropriate approvals from outside agencies is already underway.

"We have issued these plans for the state historic preservation people's review," Doeden said. "We are in the process of issuing them to the city for their plan review. As of this morning, that had not been done yet, though."

The overall project is likely to cost around $2 million or more to complete, depending on the scope commissioners decide upon when bids are returned later this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665500688836.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners approved Tuesday continuing the process of getting ready to renovate&nbsp;the District Attorney, District Courts, Information Technology, Human Resources, and County Administration portions of the interior of the Courthouse."GLMV had prepared the bid documents," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "We wanted to get it out to bid so that we could still bring it back this year, since we've been working on it. It has budget authority this year and from last year in reserves. We were wanting to get that taken care of."&nbsp;No price tag for that approval was listed in the agenda documents. County Commissioner Ron Sellers is concerned that the scope of the project may have to change because of increased cost."We have money in reserve budgeted for this upgrade to the courthouse," Sellers said. "My concern is that with the inflation that's going on in construction costs and all, that we might not be able to do all that Randy suggested. I don't want to delay sending this out for bids, but is there somewhat of a simple way to get a total bid and some breakdowns?"Bradley Doeden with GLMV said he sees the project as something that can be broken into phases if needed because of cost. He also said the process of getting all the appropriate approvals from outside agencies is already underway."We have issued these plans for the state historic preservation people's review," Doeden said. "We are in the process of issuing them to the city for their plan review. As of this morning, that had not been done yet, though."The overall project is likely to cost around $2 million or more to complete, depending on the scope commissioners decide upon when bids are returned later this year.

County Commission seeks bids for interior courthouse renovation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School drama department and Stage 9 have come together to present Disney Descendants this weekend at Hutch High.

"It's based off of the movie, Disney's Descendants, said Tobie Henline, director of the show. "It is about the descendants of the evil characters and the good characters and trying to bring them all together to make things work."

This production has been in the works for months and the cast is so large that the two needed to collaborate.

"The core cast, we have about 30 people," Henline said. "By the time all is said and done, we have all of our tech people as well, who help build and everything else like that. We have about 70 people involved in the show all together."

Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Hutchinson High School Performing Arts Center at 810 East 13th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665498481819.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School drama department and Stage 9 have come together to present Disney Descendants this weekend at Hutch High."It's based off of the movie, Disney's Descendants, said Tobie Henline, director of the show. "It is about the descendants of the evil characters and the good characters and trying to bring them all together to make things work."This production has been in the works for months and the cast is so large that the two needed to collaborate."The core cast, we have about 30 people," Henline said. "By the time all is said and done, we have all of our tech people as well, who help build and everything else like that. We have about 70 people involved in the show all together."Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Hutchinson High School Performing Arts Center at 810 East 13th.

Disney Descendants on stage this weekend

Release from the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;

The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation announced the induction of The Pat Koons Family of Burdick, Kansas as the 2022 Wall of Honor inductee in a combination of their 2022 Boots and Bling event and then again during the Kansas State Fair Grand Drive Breeding Female Supreme drive. Pat and his family have been life-long supporters of the Kansas livestock industry and the Kansas State Fair with Pat serving on the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation Board of Directors from 2008 to 2016. The patriarch of the family, Pat Koons, was born near Council Grove. Attended Kansas State University and majored in Animal Sciences and Industry. He actively participated in many clubs, the Little American Royal, judging teams, and worked as well as lived at the purebred beef barn under the direction of Dr. Miles McKee. He attended his first State Fair while working at the purebred barn, preparing KSU cattle for exhibition at the 1959 Kansas State Fair and showing in the Bison Arena. Upon graduation in 1964, Pat served his country in the U.S. Army for two years. In 1966, he returned to Kansas and assumed the position of purebred herd manager at the Dewey Ranch south of Manhattan. He also married his first wife Patricia “Mrs. Pat” in 1966 and they had two sons, Vince, and Bill. He then managed the OK Ranch south of Junction City, Kansas. In 1971, Pat went to work for CattleFax as a market analyst, developing grass roots producer support for a entity. In 1972, Pat assumed the general manager position of Kearny County Feeders Inc. near Lakin, Kansas. In 1983, Pat and his young boys, lost their beloved wife and mother to cancer. During the next 34 years Pat developed natural, NHTC, source and age programs, Bred Heifer Program and Auction, and was responsible for pricing options, feed yard operations and customer relations. In his spare time, he served on the KLA Board of Directors, Feeder Council chairman, and the Beef Empire Days board of directors as well as past president. Along with serving on the National Livestock and Beef Board and sharing his time with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. In 1984, Pat married Sharon, a former Kansas Wheat Queen, and they enjoyed the blessing of three additional children born into the family, John, Danny, and Betsy. All five of the Koons children grew up active in 4-H, participating in various activities at the State Fair. The children excelled in 4-H qualifying for the State Fair in cooking, baking, style review, clothing construction, photography, public speaking, and demonstrations. They also exhibited lambs, horses, Angus, Hereford, Shorthorn, Maine-Anjou, Chianina, AOB and crossbred steers and heifers. Pat noted that 2006 was a very memorable year for the Koons children, as they exhibited both the Grand and Reserve Grand Champion Hereford Steers at the 2006 Kansas State Fair. Pat is a member of the Livestock and Meat Industry Council Royal Board and past president. Pat was the lead in raising funds for the construction of the Stanley Stout Center and part of the team that oversaw building this remarkable highly utilized facility. In 2008, Pat and Sharon chose to return to his roots in the Flint Hills and became a self-employed rancher overseeing a cow-calf and stocker operation. Pat continues to share the life experience and insight of the cattle industry as a cattle feeding consultant. Pat and his wife, Sharon, have been married for 39 years. Pat’s five children and 14 grandchildren maintain a presence at livestock shows and competitions. While on the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation Board, Pat served as Wall of Honor chairman, actively involved in the selection of the honorees. The Foundation Board spearheaded the building of the Lair White House on the Kansas State Fairgrounds during Pat’s tenure, which now is home to the State Fair Museum and the Foundation’s office. The family has a passion for agriculture and in particular the livestock industry. A big part of the Koons’ family activities is an involvement in consumer education; to inform the general public on the importance of American agriculture and the livestock industry. As the legacy of The Pat Koons Family is written, it will show the importance of “Family”, to understand that you should treat everyone fair, that your word is your bond and that you always “Ride for the Brand”.

The Pat Koons Family includes: Pat and Sharon Koons Vince Koons, wife Lisa with children Amber, Ryan, and Walker Bill Koons, wife Jennifer with children Baxter and Charlie John Koons, wife Marley with children Kirbe, Kipton, and Kolby Danny Koons, wife Jessika with children Kamryn, Presley, and Sawyer Betsy Gilchrist, husband David with children Grant, Jake, and Elly&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665497555057.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from the Kansas Fairgrounds FoundationHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;

The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation announced the induction of The Pat Koons Family of Burdick, Kansas as the 2022 Wall of Honor inductee in a combination of their 2022 Boots and Bling event and then again during the Kansas State Fair Grand Drive Breeding Female Supreme drive. Pat and his family have been life-long supporters of the Kansas livestock industry and the Kansas State Fair with Pat serving on the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation Board of Directors from 2008 to 2016. The patriarch of the family, Pat Koons, was born near Council Grove. Attended Kansas State University and majored in Animal Sciences and Industry. He actively participated in many clubs, the Little American Royal, judging teams, and worked as well as lived at the purebred beef barn under the direction of Dr. Miles McKee. He attended his first State Fair while working at the purebred barn, preparing KSU cattle for exhibition at the 1959 Kansas State Fair and showing in the Bison Arena. Upon graduation in 1964, Pat served his country in the U.S. Army for two years. In 1966, he returned to Kansas and assumed the position of purebred herd manager at the Dewey Ranch south of Manhattan. He also married his first wife Patricia “Mrs. Pat” in 1966 and they had two sons, Vince, and Bill. He then managed the OK Ranch south of Junction City, Kansas. In 1971, Pat went to work for CattleFax as a market analyst, developing grass roots producer support for a entity. In 1972, Pat assumed the general manager position of Kearny County Feeders Inc. near Lakin, Kansas. In 1983, Pat and his young boys, lost their beloved wife and mother to cancer. During the next 34 years Pat developed natural, NHTC, source and age programs, Bred Heifer Program and Auction, and was responsible for pricing options, feed yard operations and customer relations. In his spare time, he served on the KLA Board of Directors, Feeder Council chairman, and the Beef Empire Days board of directors as well as past president. Along with serving on the National Livestock and Beef Board and sharing his time with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. In 1984, Pat married Sharon, a former Kansas Wheat Queen, and they enjoyed the blessing of three additional children born into the family, John, Danny, and Betsy. All five of the Koons children grew up active in 4-H, participating in various activities at the State Fair. The children excelled in 4-H qualifying for the State Fair in cooking, baking, style review, clothing construction, photography, public speaking, and demonstrations. They also exhibited lambs, horses, Angus, Hereford, Shorthorn, Maine-Anjou, Chianina, AOB and crossbred steers and heifers. Pat noted that 2006 was a very memorable year for the Koons children, as they exhibited both the Grand and Reserve Grand Champion Hereford Steers at the 2006 Kansas State Fair. Pat is a member of the Livestock and Meat Industry Council Royal Board and past president. Pat was the lead in raising funds for the construction of the Stanley Stout Center and part of the team that oversaw building this remarkable highly utilized facility. In 2008, Pat and Sharon chose to return to his roots in the Flint Hills and became a self-employed rancher overseeing a cow-calf and stocker operation. Pat continues to share the life experience and insight of the cattle industry as a cattle feeding consultant. Pat and his wife, Sharon, have been married for 39 years. Pat’s five children and 14 grandchildren maintain a presence at livestock shows and competitions. While on the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation Board, Pat served as Wall of Honor chairman, actively involved in the selection of the honorees. The Foundation Board spearheaded the building of the Lair White House on the Kansas State Fairgrounds during Pat’s tenure, which now is home to the State Fair Museum and the Foundation’s office. The family has a passion for agriculture and in particular the livestock industry. A big part of the Koons’ family activities is an involvement in consumer education; to inform the general public on the importance of American agriculture and the livestock industry. As the legacy of The Pat Koons Family is written, it will show the importance of “Family”, to understand that you should treat everyone fair, that your word is your bond and that you always “Ride for the Brand”.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665497555057.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Pat Koons Family includes: Pat and Sharon Koons Vince Koons, wife Lisa with children Amber, Ryan, and Walker Bill Koons, wife Jennifer with children Baxter and Charlie John Koons, wife Marley with children Kirbe, Kipton, and Kolby Danny Koons, wife Jessika with children Kamryn, Presley, and Sawyer Betsy Gilchrist, husband David with children Grant, Jake, and Elly&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pat Koons Family: 2022 Wall of Honor Inductee by Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Schools has been recognized by the Kansas State Department of Education with multiple awards based on quantitative and qualitative measures of student success in the district.&nbsp;

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has recognized USD 308 with the Copper Award in Social-Emotional Growth and the Bronze Award in Individual Plan of Study through their 2022 Kansans Can Star Recognition Awards Program. The Copper Star Recognition distinguishes the district’s work in achieving student development in social, emotional and character competencies that promote learning and success in life. The Bronze Star Award recognizes the district’s use of personalized learning.

“This recognition should be celebrated throughout your district and be used to help guide your strategic focus in the coming year.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to everyone at Hutchinson Public Schools for their exceptional work!” said Kansas Commissioner of Education, Dr. Randy Watson.

“We are proud to be recognized once more by the Kansas State Department of Education through their Kansans Can STAR Recognition Program. Our Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment team have been working hard to ensure the success in these areas and this recognition reflects the excellence of our staff and students throughout USD 308,” said USD superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599604586437.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>MARISSA MEIS USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Schools has been recognized by the Kansas State Department of Education with multiple awards based on quantitative and qualitative measures of student success in the district.&nbsp;The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has recognized USD 308 with the Copper Award in Social-Emotional Growth and the Bronze Award in Individual Plan of Study through their 2022 Kansans Can Star Recognition Awards Program. The Copper Star Recognition distinguishes the district’s work in achieving student development in social, emotional and character competencies that promote learning and success in life. The Bronze Star Award recognizes the district’s use of personalized learning.The Kansas Star Recognition Program seeks to provide Kansas districts an opportunity to validate the coherent, rigorous and sustained commitment required to improve adult and student outcomes.“This recognition should be celebrated throughout your district and be used to help guide your strategic focus in the coming year.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to everyone at Hutchinson Public Schools for their exceptional work!” said Kansas Commissioner of Education, Dr. Randy Watson.“We are proud to be recognized once more by the Kansas State Department of Education through their Kansans Can STAR Recognition Program. Our Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment team have been working hard to ensure the success in these areas and this recognition reflects the excellence of our staff and students throughout USD 308,” said USD superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson.

KSDE recognizes USD 308 with Star Awards

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College are collaborating for their annual Empty Bowls fundraiser on Thursday.

"Recently, in the last two years, we've moved from the high school over to the Hutchinson Art Center," said&nbsp;Julia Johnson with Hutch High. "They've been gracious enough to provide us with a great space to bring our bowls. We've incorporated in the past year a food option for people as well through food trucks, which have kind of become a big rage right now. It just worked, fit perfectly and we'll be having Traveling Bowl come in again this year."

The fundraiser supports the Reno County Food Bank.&nbsp;

"It gives our students, also, a way to give back, to be part of that solution," Johnson said. "We talk about hunger in our communities. This is a way our students can directly impact our community."

There is a $10 suggested donation to enter the event, which will provide guests with a hand-made ceramic bowl created by HHS and HCC students, along with the food.

"We are hoping that we can really just take our whole supply over there and not have to bring anything back to the high school," Johnson said. "This year, we're bringing over 300 bowls. We've got bowls, about 65 or 70 were made by the Hutchinson Community College students. The remainder have been made by students at Hutchinson High School.

The event is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hutchinson Art Center at&nbsp;405 North Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664808295549.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College are collaborating for their annual Empty Bowls fundraiser on Thursday."Recently, in the last two years, we've moved from the high school over to the Hutchinson Art Center," said&nbsp;Julia Johnson with Hutch High. "They've been gracious enough to provide us with a great space to bring our bowls. We've incorporated in the past year a food option for people as well through food trucks, which have kind of become a big rage right now. It just worked, fit perfectly and we'll be having Traveling Bowl come in again this year."The fundraiser supports the Reno County Food Bank.&nbsp;"It gives our students, also, a way to give back, to be part of that solution," Johnson said. "We talk about hunger in our communities. This is a way our students can directly impact our community."There is a $10 suggested donation to enter the event, which will provide guests with a hand-made ceramic bowl created by HHS and HCC students, along with the food."We are hoping that we can really just take our whole supply over there and not have to bring anything back to the high school," Johnson said. "This year, we're bringing over 300 bowls. We've got bowls, about 65 or 70 were made by the Hutchinson Community College students. The remainder have been made by students at Hutchinson High School.The event is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hutchinson Art Center at&nbsp;405 North Washington.

Empty Bowls coming up Thursday

RENO COUNTY — Around 1:18 a.m. Tuesday, Reno County deputies were flagged down by a person at 4th and Mohawk Road to report an accident they witnessed. 

A 37 year old female of Hutchinson was north bound on Mohawk Rd and drove straight through the “T” intersection leaving the roadway north of 4th. The vehicle was found approximately 1/8 mile off the road overturned in the ditch. The driver was ejected from the vehicle and laying on the ground several feet from the vehicle. 

Reno County EMS and Fire units responded to the scene and transported the driver to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Eagle Med was advised to respond to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center while on scene and later transported the driver to a Wichita hospital. 

The accident is still under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574087274920.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>RENO COUNTY — Around 1:18 a.m. Tuesday, Reno County deputies were flagged down by a person at 4th and Mohawk Road to report an accident they witnessed. A 37 year old female of Hutchinson was north bound on Mohawk Rd and drove straight through the “T” intersection leaving the roadway north of 4th. The vehicle was found approximately 1/8 mile off the road overturned in the ditch. The driver was ejected from the vehicle and laying on the ground several feet from the vehicle. Reno County EMS and Fire units responded to the scene and transported the driver to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Eagle Med was advised to respond to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center while on scene and later transported the driver to a Wichita hospital. The accident is still under investigation.

One person taken to Wichita hospital after Reno County wreck

WICHITA, Kan. — There is a very high grassland fire danger today due to strong south winds and low humidity.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service says wind will be sustained from the southwest from 20 to 30 miles per hour with gusts of 25 to 40 miles per hour between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Outdoor burning is highly discouraged and be mindful of anything that may cause a spark.

Storms are expected overnight with the best coverage over Eastern Kansas into the Flint Hills. The stronger storms will be capable of nickel to quarter size hail and 50 to 60 mph winds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665483426897.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — There is a very high grassland fire danger today due to strong south winds and low humidity.&nbsp;The National Weather Service says wind will be sustained from the southwest from 20 to 30 miles per hour with gusts of 25 to 40 miles per hour between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.Outdoor burning is highly discouraged and be mindful of anything that may cause a spark.Storms are expected overnight with the best coverage over Eastern Kansas into the Flint Hills. The stronger storms will be capable of nickel to quarter size hail and 50 to 60 mph winds.

Fire danger today, storms to the east tonight

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The State Fair Promenaders Square Dance Club is looking for new members to join the hobby. 

They are holding an ice cream social kickoff to lessons October 23 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Faris School at 301 East 10th in Hutchinson. Lessons will run for 14 weeks with some holiday breaks.

The group currently dances once a month at the Burrton Community Center. Dances are on the second Friday of the month.

For more information, go to their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/631507391981753/about">Facebook group</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665485475372.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The State Fair Promenaders Square Dance Club is looking for new members to join the hobby. They are holding an ice cream social kickoff to lessons October 23 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Faris School at 301 East 10th in Hutchinson. Lessons will run for 14 weeks with some holiday breaks.The group currently dances once a month at the Burrton Community Center. Dances are on the second Friday of the month.For more information, go to their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/631507391981753/about">Facebook group</a>.

Square Dance club holding event Oct. 23

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The organizers of the annual&nbsp;A Taste of Hutchinson – The Men Cook fundraiser for Salthawk Community Support are needing 25 men or teams who are willing to don aprons and chef hats to prepare and serve samples of their favorite culinary treat. Whether a main entrée or appetizer, they would love to give it a taste.

Funds raised at this event, scheduled for Saturday, January 21, 2023 at the Hutchinson Art Center, assure the financial future of the Salthawk Community Support program at Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson Middle School 8 and Mid-Town Center at Avenue ‘A’ Academy. 

Salthawk Community Support encourages students to be engaged in school by providing supportive counseling, mentors, programs that encourage a positive atmosphere, meeting basic needs and more.

To enter your team, contact Deana Riney at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:djrineytumc@gmail.com'">djrineytumc@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651155323038.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The organizers of the annual&nbsp;A Taste of Hutchinson – The Men Cook fundraiser for Salthawk Community Support are needing 25 men or teams who are willing to don aprons and chef hats to prepare and serve samples of their favorite culinary treat. Whether a main entrée or appetizer, they would love to give it a taste.Funds raised at this event, scheduled for Saturday, January 21, 2023 at the Hutchinson Art Center, assure the financial future of the Salthawk Community Support program at Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson Middle School 8 and Mid-Town Center at Avenue ‘A’ Academy. Salthawk Community Support encourages students to be engaged in school by providing supportive counseling, mentors, programs that encourage a positive atmosphere, meeting basic needs and more.To enter your team, contact Deana Riney at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:djrineytumc@gmail.com'">djrineytumc@gmail.com</a>.

Call for Cooks: A Taste of Hutchinson – The Men Cook returns in 2023

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Cause for Paws, Inc. is joining with the Hutchinson Animal Shelter for an All Howl-O's Eve event Saturday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for pets and owners at the shelter at 1501 South Severance.

There will be a costume contest for humans and dogs, a pumpkin patch egg hunt for pets and people, a raffle, a cornhole toss, fishing for prizes, a photo booth and more.

For the pups, there will be games of catch, pawshake and hoop jumping.

It is a free event and donations are welcome.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665428293090.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Cause for Paws, Inc. is joining with the Hutchinson Animal Shelter for an All Howl-O's Eve event Saturday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for pets and owners at the shelter at 1501 South Severance.There will be a costume contest for humans and dogs, a pumpkin patch egg hunt for pets and people, a raffle, a cornhole toss, fishing for prizes, a photo booth and more.For the pups, there will be games of catch, pawshake and hoop jumping.It is a free event and donations are welcome.

Pets and people All Howl-O's Eve event this Saturday

McPHERSON — The City of McPherson has received a fifth Transportation Alternative grant for completion of Phase II of the Northview 10-foot trail project.&nbsp;

The grant award — in the amount of $856,351 — was announced last week by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. The grant is administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation and provides funding for a variety of projects. It was one of 32 grants awarded Thursday across the state.&nbsp;

Phase I of the Northview project, which already is completed, was partially funded through a separate award from the program.&nbsp;

The grant will be used to complete the 10-foot hiking, biking and walking trail from Main Street to East Veranda Circle along Northview Road. It will tie into Phase I, which was constructed from Meadowlark Trail to Main. The TA Grant covers 80 percent of the total construction cost.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665429140316.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy-City of McPherson" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy-City of McPherson</figcaption>
 </figure>McPHERSON — The City of McPherson has received a fifth Transportation Alternative grant for completion of Phase II of the Northview 10-foot trail project.&nbsp;The grant award — in the amount of $856,351 — was announced last week by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. The grant is administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation and provides funding for a variety of projects. It was one of 32 grants awarded Thursday across the state.&nbsp;Phase I of the Northview project, which already is completed, was partially funded through a separate award from the program.&nbsp;The grant will be used to complete the 10-foot hiking, biking and walking trail from Main Street to East Veranda Circle along Northview Road. It will tie into Phase I, which was constructed from Meadowlark Trail to Main. The TA Grant covers 80 percent of the total construction cost.&nbsp;It’s the fifth Transportation Alternative Grant awarded to the City of McPherson.&nbsp;