By
NICK GOSNELL and RICK KRAUS Hutch Post

SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Stainless Systems, Inc. is the Market South Hutch Business of the Month.

"We started as a sole proprietorship in 1995, incorporated the business in 1998, struggled a bit and relaunched the business in 2004, said Stainless Systems, Inc. President Greg Roepka. "We've been doing the same thing pretty much ever since."

Roepka said the business was started to fill a hole left when Reno Technologies was sold.

"We build and install industrial food equipment," Roepka said. "That's our niche, and we do some contract fabrication, but it's mostly related to stainless steel material. The meat industry is a pretty small, tight-knit community. It's basically based on who you know."

Stainless Systems, Inc. has 22 employees. 

"There's a lot of big companies that manufacture things like ovens and spiral freezers and things like that," Roepka said. "There's a lot of support equipment that has to go with that. We do the fill in the blank part of that. We fill in with the conveyors, the dumpers, the material handling equipment. We do maintenance, repair work. We've installed robotic pack off systems, all kinds of technology, what they call labor reduction, which is automation, basically."

The fewer hands that touch food during processing, the better chance of ending up with clean food and no injuries.

"We do a lot of safety contracts to take care of guarding issues and things like that, to protect people from getting hurt," Roepka said.

Stainless Systems, Inc. is an essential business with its role in food production.

"We do some work in the dairies," Roepka said. "We do some work in the further processing plants, mainly. We do a little bit of work in slaughter facilities. It's mostly further processing stuff. Keeping those facilities running is critical to feeding people."

Roepka has his roots in South Hutchinson, even though he currently lives in Hutchinson.

"I was on the South Hutch fire department for 20 years," Roepka said. "I was on the city council for 8 years. I've been here, basically, most of my adult life in South Hutch.

The building is the same one Roepka worked in when it was built by Larry Doskocil back in the 1970s.

"It's an honor to be chosen," Roepka said. "The things we do, we like to do things to help the community. That's why the work on the Veterans Memorial and the things that we do are so important to us. The guys take a lot of pride in that. The city of South Hutch is just really good for business. In our view, we couldn't be anywhere that's better. They take good care of us. We help them any way that we can. It's a good working relationship."

Stainless Systems, Inc. is at 300 East 4th Ave in South Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648302673520.jpeg" alt="SSILogo.JPG" />
 <figcaption>SSILogo.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>

By
NICK GOSNELL and RICK KRAUS Hutch PostSOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Stainless Systems, Inc. is the Market South Hutch Business of the Month."We started as a sole proprietorship in 1995, incorporated the business in 1998, struggled a bit and relaunched the business in 2004, said Stainless Systems, Inc. President Greg Roepka. "We've been doing the same thing pretty much ever since."Roepka said the business was started to fill a hole left when Reno Technologies was sold."We build and install industrial food equipment," Roepka said. "That's our niche, and we do some contract fabrication, but it's mostly related to stainless steel material. The meat industry is a pretty small, tight-knit community. It's basically based on who you know."Stainless Systems, Inc. has 22 employees. "There's a lot of big companies that manufacture things like ovens and spiral freezers and things like that," Roepka said. "There's a lot of support equipment that has to go with that. We do the fill in the blank part of that. We fill in with the conveyors, the dumpers, the material handling equipment. We do maintenance, repair work. We've installed robotic pack off systems, all kinds of technology, what they call labor reduction, which is automation, basically."The fewer hands that touch food during processing, the better chance of ending up with clean food and no injuries."We do a lot of safety contracts to take care of guarding issues and things like that, to protect people from getting hurt," Roepka said.Stainless Systems, Inc. is an essential business with its role in food production."We do some work in the dairies," Roepka said. "We do some work in the further processing plants, mainly. We do a little bit of work in slaughter facilities. It's mostly further processing stuff. Keeping those facilities running is critical to feeding people."Roepka has his roots in South Hutchinson, even though he currently lives in Hutchinson."I was on the South Hutch fire department for 20 years," Roepka said. "I was on the city council for 8 years. I've been here, basically, most of my adult life in South Hutch.The building is the same one Roepka worked in when it was built by Larry Doskocil back in the 1970s."It's an honor to be chosen," Roepka said. "The things we do, we like to do things to help the community. That's why the work on the Veterans Memorial and the things that we do are so important to us. The guys take a lot of pride in that. The city of South Hutch is just really good for business. In our view, we couldn't be anywhere that's better. They take good care of us. We help them any way that we can. It's a good working relationship."Stainless Systems, Inc. is at 300 East 4th Ave in South Hutchinson.

Stainless Systems, Inc. is Market South Hutch Business of the Month


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A wide variety of requests have been made to the Board of County Commissioners to look at as they prepare to allocate $12,042,385 in ARPA Funds.

Discussing those choices is the topic for a work session Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

It's worth noting that the ARPA taskforce brought forward childcare issues as the top need in the county and that Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer received a commitment for his equipment request at meetings of the County Commission and City Council last Tuesday.

Here is a list of the requests, according to the meeting agenda:

Childcare – ARPA Taskforce ($12 million)

Housing – Interfaith Housing ($4,465,931)

Economic Development – Industrial Development Park infrastructure ($1.2 million)

Workforce Development – HCC request for 2 new positions ($500,000)

Nursing Scholarships – Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and HCC ($480,228)

HABIT Infrastructure – Three (3) water projects (unknown total cost, estimate around $265,000)

Haven EMS– Haven has requested equipment purchases ($12,100)

Infrastructure Assistance – City of Buhler sewer lines ($57,000)

Willowbrook Drainage – Request for assistance on water mitigation project (grant for 25% of cost)

City of Hutchinson Fire Department/District #2 – Fire equipment and vehicles ($440,000)

Commissioner Ron Hirst – Rural fire district equipment and materials ($880,000)

Additional ideas discussed without formal requests

Mental Health needs – Stepping Up Council

EMS Station at Arlington – Ambulances are too large for current station

Tourism – Hotel/Motel lost revenue assistance

Yoder and HABIT Infrastructure – Sewer District projects

Reno County Building Needs – Health Department, Emergency Management, and downtown EMS station

Reno County Sheriff’s Office – Discussions of a request to be presented in near future

Contingency – Accounting assistance or other items that come up in the next couple of years

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630684125903.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A wide variety of requests have been made to the Board of County Commissioners to look at as they prepare to allocate $12,042,385 in ARPA Funds.Discussing those choices is the topic for a work session Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.It's worth noting that the ARPA taskforce brought forward childcare issues as the top need in the county and that Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer received a commitment for his equipment request at meetings of the County Commission and City Council last Tuesday.Here is a list of the requests, according to the meeting agenda:Childcare – ARPA Taskforce ($12 million)Housing – Interfaith Housing ($4,465,931)SCKEDD ($500,000)Economic Development – Industrial Development Park infrastructure ($1.2 million)Workforce Development – HCC request for 2 new positions ($500,000)Nursing Scholarships – Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and HCC ($480,228)HABIT Infrastructure – Three (3) water projects (unknown total cost, estimate around $265,000)Haven EMS– Haven has requested equipment purchases ($12,100)Infrastructure Assistance – City of Buhler sewer lines ($57,000)Willowbrook Drainage – Request for assistance on water mitigation project (grant for 25% of cost)City of Hutchinson Fire Department/District #2 – Fire equipment and vehicles ($440,000)Commissioner Ron Hirst – Rural fire district equipment and materials ($880,000)Additional ideas discussed without formal requestsMental Health needs – Stepping Up CouncilEMS Station at Arlington – Ambulances are too large for current stationTourism – Hotel/Motel lost revenue assistanceYoder and HABIT Infrastructure – Sewer District projectsReno County Building Needs – Health Department, Emergency Management, and downtown EMS stationReno County Sheriff’s Office – Discussions of a request to be presented in near futureContingency – Accounting assistance or other items that come up in the next couple of years

County Commission to hold ARPA study session Tuesday

BUHLER —&nbsp;Strategic planning and goal setting is the main topic for a special meeting of the Buhler USD 313 school board Tuesday night.

They also will deal with several personnel issues for the upcoming year.

The meeting will be at 6:00 p.m. in the Burkholder Administrative Center at 406 West 7th in Buhler.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER —&nbsp;Strategic planning and goal setting is the main topic for a special meeting of the Buhler USD 313 school board Tuesday night.They also will deal with several personnel issues for the upcoming year.The meeting will be at 6:00 p.m. in the Burkholder Administrative Center at 406 West 7th in Buhler.

Buhler USD 313 school board to meet Tuesday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz was pleased to talk about the newest facility upgrade just finished on the Fairgrounds.

Our Expo Center, that's our equestrian center," Schulz said. "Last weekend, we had our first event in there. We did about a $1.3 million renovation on that building. New roof, new heat, new side panels, new insulation, new lighting. I mean, it looks fantastic in there. Obviously, there are little things that we have that weren't in the budget that we're going to be working on in the next couple of years to bring it up. A new sound system should be going in there shortly."

There's also some deferred maintenance that is being worked on elsewhere.

"We are constantly looking at areas to make sure that it's safe for everyone that comes in there," Schulz said. "This year, we are working on the grandstand. We are resealing all of the concrete on that. There was an area where it was leaking down into the lower levels. We're getting all that fixed up right now. We're doing overlays on some of the asphalt, because that is a big thing, making sure there's no trip hazards out there."

Also, one of their inspections resulted in the demolition and eventual rebuilding of the Lake Talbott stage.

"We went out there and assessed it," Schulz said. "It was just getting to the point where it was getting a little rickety and the underfootings were getting beat up a little bit, so we just decided, for safety reasons, to take it down. We are in the process right now. We've got some drawings going up to Topeka to get approved. Our plan is by fair time that we'll have a brand new Lake Talbott stage."

The Fair Food and Tunes events this summer will be at the People's Bank and Trust Arena in June.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632137691150.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz was pleased to talk about the newest facility upgrade just finished on the Fairgrounds.Our Expo Center, that's our equestrian center," Schulz said. "Last weekend, we had our first event in there. We did about a $1.3 million renovation on that building. New roof, new heat, new side panels, new insulation, new lighting. I mean, it looks fantastic in there. Obviously, there are little things that we have that weren't in the budget that we're going to be working on in the next couple of years to bring it up. A new sound system should be going in there shortly."There's also some deferred maintenance that is being worked on elsewhere."We are constantly looking at areas to make sure that it's safe for everyone that comes in there," Schulz said. "This year, we are working on the grandstand. We are resealing all of the concrete on that. There was an area where it was leaking down into the lower levels. We're getting all that fixed up right now. We're doing overlays on some of the asphalt, because that is a big thing, making sure there's no trip hazards out there."Also, one of their inspections resulted in the demolition and eventual rebuilding of the Lake Talbott stage."We went out there and assessed it," Schulz said. "It was just getting to the point where it was getting a little rickety and the underfootings were getting beat up a little bit, so we just decided, for safety reasons, to take it down. We are in the process right now. We've got some drawings going up to Topeka to get approved. Our plan is by fair time that we'll have a brand new Lake Talbott stage."The Fair Food and Tunes events this summer will be at the People's Bank and Trust Arena in June.

Schulz: Facilities work continues at fairgrounds

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education meeting on Monday will begin with the Prenatal to Five Presentation &amp; Dinner presentation from Head Start. A boxed dinner will be provided to the board at 5 p.m., with the presentation from 5:15 to 5:45 p.m.

Also on the agenda for the meeting, art teachers, Kylie Sampson and Kara Toney, will be presenting on Youth Art Month for the Month of March. 

The teachers will show a brief video featuring student art from across USD 308, and will speak to the importance of art programs for students. 

The video features pieces of student art, as well as interviews with students on their favorite art projects.

The Board will receive an update from Superintendent Mike Folks. 

The board also plans to approve a study of the district's HR department from the Kansas Association of School Boards and approve the&nbsp;KASB Membership Renewal and Legal Assistance Fund Contract.&nbsp;

Also, the board will approve the Memorandum of Understanding for Parents as Teachers for the upcoming school year, an upgrade to the fire alarm components at the Salthawk Activity Center, a grant for staff training at the Hutchinson High School childcare center, approval of the Morgan Elementary outdoor classroom proposal and the out of state student activity request for the DECA winners to go to nationals in April.

The meeting will be held in the library on the third floor of the Hutchinson Middle School – 7 building at&nbsp;210 E Ave A. with the Head Start items first and the regular meeting to start at 6 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education meeting on Monday will begin with the Prenatal to Five Presentation &amp; Dinner presentation from Head Start. A boxed dinner will be provided to the board at 5 p.m., with the presentation from 5:15 to 5:45 p.m.Also on the agenda for the meeting, art teachers, Kylie Sampson and Kara Toney, will be presenting on Youth Art Month for the Month of March. The teachers will show a brief video featuring student art from across USD 308, and will speak to the importance of art programs for students. The video features pieces of student art, as well as interviews with students on their favorite art projects.The Board will receive an update from Superintendent Mike Folks. The board also plans to approve a study of the district's HR department from the Kansas Association of School Boards and approve the&nbsp;KASB Membership Renewal and Legal Assistance Fund Contract.&nbsp;Also, the board will approve the Memorandum of Understanding for Parents as Teachers for the upcoming school year, an upgrade to the fire alarm components at the Salthawk Activity Center, a grant for staff training at the Hutchinson High School childcare center, approval of the Morgan Elementary outdoor classroom proposal and the out of state student activity request for the DECA winners to go to nationals in April.The meeting will be held in the library on the third floor of the Hutchinson Middle School – 7 building at&nbsp;210 E Ave A. with the Head Start items first and the regular meeting to start at 6 p.m.

USD 308 Board to meet Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Sales tax revenue in Reno County was almost flat with the previous year in the latest report that Reno County Treasurer Brenda Kowitz provided to Hutch Post on Friday.

March 2022 reported revenue was $423,465.07, down from $533,495.46 in February. March 2021 reported revenue was $421,560.70.

The March tax numbers reflect shopping trends for the month of January. The county has taken in just over $1.38 million through the March calculation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565223563029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Sales tax revenue in Reno County was almost flat with the previous year in the latest report that Reno County Treasurer Brenda Kowitz provided to Hutch Post on Friday.March 2022 reported revenue was $423,465.07, down from $533,495.46 in February. March 2021 reported revenue was $421,560.70.The March tax numbers reflect shopping trends for the month of January. The county has taken in just over $1.38 million through the March calculation.

Sales tax back to almost flat in Reno County

Fatal accident at 56th and Halstead, volcano erupts in Phillippines, plus more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fatal accident at 56th and Halstead, volcano erupts in Phillippines, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="March 26, 2022 Morning News" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ny8xh-11e0d35-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

March 26, 2022 Saturday News

RENO COUNTY&nbsp;—&nbsp;An accident just before 3 p.m. Friday near Hutchinson claimed one life.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, deputies, along with Fire and EMS, responded to the intersection of 56th Ave. and Halstead Rd. for an injury accident. They found that a gray 1988 Chevrolet 1500 operated by an 18 year old male from Hutchinson was north bound on Halstead Rd. when he failed to yield at the stop sign and struck a gray 2018 GMC Yukon traveling east on 56th Ave.

The Yukon was being driven by a 40 year old female from Hutchinson and a 44 year old male from Hutchinson was in the passenger seat. The male in the Chevrolet 1500 was ejected from his vehicle due to the impact. EMS treated and transported the male to HRMC where he eventually passed away from his injuries.

The driver and passenger in the GMC were transported to the hospital for non-life threatening injuries. The accident is still under investigation. Names of those involved will not be released until all family has been notified.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY&nbsp;—&nbsp;An accident just before 3 p.m. Friday near Hutchinson claimed one life.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, deputies, along with Fire and EMS, responded to the intersection of 56th Ave. and Halstead Rd. for an injury accident. They found that a gray 1988 Chevrolet 1500 operated by an 18 year old male from Hutchinson was north bound on Halstead Rd. when he failed to yield at the stop sign and struck a gray 2018 GMC Yukon traveling east on 56th Ave.The Yukon was being driven by a 40 year old female from Hutchinson and a 44 year old male from Hutchinson was in the passenger seat. The male in the Chevrolet 1500 was ejected from his vehicle due to the impact. EMS treated and transported the male to HRMC where he eventually passed away from his injuries.The driver and passenger in the GMC were transported to the hospital for non-life threatening injuries. The accident is still under investigation. Names of those involved will not be released until all family has been notified.

One dead as a result of traffic accident Friday near Hutchinson

STAFFORD COUNTY—A Hutchinson man was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Friday in Stafford County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 International semi driven by James David Klick, 45, Hutchinson, was entering the round about from the north at Highway 50 and Highway 281 two miles south of St. John.

The driver was not able to negotiate the curve due to the truck being overweight and traveling too fast for conditions. The truck rolled.

EMS transported Klick to the Stafford County Hospital. He was properly restrained according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636209377817.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>STAFFORD COUNTY—A Hutchinson man was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Friday in Stafford County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 International semi driven by James David Klick, 45, Hutchinson, was entering the round about from the north at Highway 50 and Highway 281 two miles south of St. John.The driver was not able to negotiate the curve due to the truck being overweight and traveling too fast for conditions. The truck rolled.EMS transported Klick to the Stafford County Hospital. He was properly restrained according to the KHP.

Hutchinson man hospitalized after semi rolls


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County in conjunction with the Reno County Health Department, Rise Up Reno, Horizons Mental Health Center’s Recovery Response Team, Reno Recovery Collaborative and DCCCA have scheduled three Naloxone Training sessions to be held at 9 a.m., noon and 5:30 p.m., Tuesday April 19 in the Pavilion at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

Naloxone, a medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. As an opioid antagonist, Naloxone binds to opioid receptors and can reverse and block the effects of other opioids, such as heroin, morphine, and oxycodone. 

Administered when a patient is experiencing symptoms of opioid overdose, Naloxone is a temporary treatment and its effects are not long lasting. Therefore, it is critical to obtain medical intervention as soon as possible after administering/receiving Naloxone.

Seth Dewey, Substance Misuse Health Educator for the Reno County Health Department, said overdose deaths are rising in the Hutchinson community to a level that requires a public education campaign to alert the public of this growing problem. “When we as a community can come together and educate one another and be educated by members from our community, especially those with lived experience, we are empowered with that knowledge, understanding and empathy,” Dewey said. “Once educated and empowered on the problem, we can go forward and engage others in our communities on the action needed.”

The one-hour sessions are free and open to the public of all ages. To RSVP, please complete an <a href="http://shorturl.at/gntMW">online registration form</a>.

Stacy Goss, Community Liaison for Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County said the goal of the sessions is to educate the public on how to recognize abuse, misuse, overdose and how to respond when the situation arises.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620675218233.jpeg" alt="Naloxone Photo Courtesy Addicts Against Overdose" />
 <figcaption>Naloxone Photo Courtesy Addicts Against Overdose</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County in conjunction with the Reno County Health Department, Rise Up Reno, Horizons Mental Health Center’s Recovery Response Team, Reno Recovery Collaborative and DCCCA have scheduled three Naloxone Training sessions to be held at 9 a.m., noon and 5:30 p.m., Tuesday April 19 in the Pavilion at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.Naloxone, a medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. As an opioid antagonist, Naloxone binds to opioid receptors and can reverse and block the effects of other opioids, such as heroin, morphine, and oxycodone. Administered when a patient is experiencing symptoms of opioid overdose, Naloxone is a temporary treatment and its effects are not long lasting. Therefore, it is critical to obtain medical intervention as soon as possible after administering/receiving Naloxone.Seth Dewey, Substance Misuse Health Educator for the Reno County Health Department, said overdose deaths are rising in the Hutchinson community to a level that requires a public education campaign to alert the public of this growing problem. “When we as a community can come together and educate one another and be educated by members from our community, especially those with lived experience, we are empowered with that knowledge, understanding and empathy,” Dewey said. “Once educated and empowered on the problem, we can go forward and engage others in our communities on the action needed.”The one-hour sessions are free and open to the public of all ages. To RSVP, please complete an <a href="http://shorturl.at/gntMW">online registration form</a>.Stacy Goss, Community Liaison for Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County said the goal of the sessions is to educate the public on how to recognize abuse, misuse, overdose and how to respond when the situation arises.

Naloxone training events coming up April 19

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas notes that gas prices are still moving a lot right now.

"The key words continue to be volatility and fluctuation with regard to crude oil and gas prices," Steward said. "Today in Kansas, we're at $3.79 a gallon on average, also $3.79 on average in Reno County."

Kansas is still one of the best places in the country to fuel up.

"We're 45 cents less than the national average, which is $4.24 today," Steward said. "That puts us at second least expensive gas prices in the country."

There are some policymakers who want to see stimulus checks or gas tax reductions to lessen the pain at the pump. Steward doesn't want to see unintended consequences from that.

"We understand and we appreciate legislators desires to help motorists and others who are grappling with these higher gas prices," Steward said. "One cautionary note is that we think it's very important to think about any of those cuts in terms of taxes and the impact they may have transportation funding, especially maintaining roads and keeping roads safe."

Be sure to check your owner’s manual for what gas is required for your vehicle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615251484545.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas notes that gas prices are still moving a lot right now."The key words continue to be volatility and fluctuation with regard to crude oil and gas prices," Steward said. "Today in Kansas, we're at $3.79 a gallon on average, also $3.79 on average in Reno County."Kansas is still one of the best places in the country to fuel up."We're 45 cents less than the national average, which is $4.24 today," Steward said. "That puts us at second least expensive gas prices in the country."There are some policymakers who want to see stimulus checks or gas tax reductions to lessen the pain at the pump. Steward doesn't want to see unintended consequences from that."We understand and we appreciate legislators desires to help motorists and others who are grappling with these higher gas prices," Steward said. "One cautionary note is that we think it's very important to think about any of those cuts in terms of taxes and the impact they may have transportation funding, especially maintaining roads and keeping roads safe."Be sure to check your owner’s manual for what gas is required for your vehicle.

Steward: Gas prices volatile, Kansas still better than most

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a4053b30ddfb481bccd615c91&amp;id=a419872be7&amp;e=fe12d62126" target="_blank">Kansas Leadership Center</a>&nbsp;(KLC) has embarked on a two-week listening tour with stops in Kansas, Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska.&nbsp;

The tour marks the opening phase of 'Heartland Together,’ a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a4053b30ddfb481bccd615c91&amp;id=53e03066e8&amp;e=fe12d62126" target="_blank">Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation</a>&nbsp;(EMKF) to strengthen support for entrepreneurs in these four Midwestern states.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson listening session is Monday, March 28 at 1 p.m. at&nbsp;The Clayworks at Disability Supports at&nbsp; 1125 N. Main St.

Jackson Swearer, entrepreneur navigator and director at StartUp Hutch and&nbsp;Dennis Clary, director of custom civic engagement with the Kansas Leadership Center along with Alejandro Arias-Esparza, custom civic engagement manager with the Kansas Leadership Center will be in attendance to talk about how to build local civic engagement along with a healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648224594934.jpeg" alt="KLCLogo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>KLCLogo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a4053b30ddfb481bccd615c91&amp;id=a419872be7&amp;e=fe12d62126" target="_blank">Kansas Leadership Center</a>&nbsp;(KLC) has embarked on a two-week listening tour with stops in Kansas, Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska.&nbsp;The tour marks the opening phase of 'Heartland Together,’ a partnership with the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a4053b30ddfb481bccd615c91&amp;id=53e03066e8&amp;e=fe12d62126" target="_blank">Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation</a>&nbsp;(EMKF) to strengthen support for entrepreneurs in these four Midwestern states.&nbsp;The Hutchinson listening session is Monday, March 28 at 1 p.m. at&nbsp;The Clayworks at Disability Supports at&nbsp; 1125 N. Main St.Jackson Swearer, entrepreneur navigator and director at StartUp Hutch and&nbsp;Dennis Clary, director of custom civic engagement with the Kansas Leadership Center along with Alejandro Arias-Esparza, custom civic engagement manager with the Kansas Leadership Center will be in attendance to talk about how to build local civic engagement along with a healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem.The public is encouraged to attend.

Kansas Leadership Center to stop in Hutchinson for ‘Heartland Together’ multi-state listening tour

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Department of Transportation spokesperson Tim Potter notes that the agency is looking for Adopt A Highway volunteers.

"It's a way to make a difference in your community and help the environment at the same time, picking up litter along our highways," Potter said. "Groups are asked to sign a two-year agreement with the program. There is no cost to the group."

KDOT provides resources to get the work done.

"We provide some training information when it comes to safety," Potter said. "We want people to be safe when they are out there picking up this litter. Among the things we provide, besides trash bags to pick up the litter is orange vests, so that you're visible when you're out there."

"People in the Hutchinson area or Reno County, the number to call if you're interested in adopting a section of highway and doing this is (620) 860-7400."

The coordinator can let you know what sections are available and what other restrictions apply.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648222543919.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Department of Transportation spokesperson Tim Potter notes that the agency is looking for Adopt A Highway volunteers."It's a way to make a difference in your community and help the environment at the same time, picking up litter along our highways," Potter said. "Groups are asked to sign a two-year agreement with the program. There is no cost to the group."KDOT provides resources to get the work done."We provide some training information when it comes to safety," Potter said. "We want people to be safe when they are out there picking up this litter. Among the things we provide, besides trash bags to pick up the litter is orange vests, so that you're visible when you're out there."There is a local contact for details."People in the Hutchinson area or Reno County, the number to call if you're interested in adopting a section of highway and doing this is (620) 860-7400."The coordinator can let you know what sections are available and what other restrictions apply.

KDOT looking for local Adopt A Highway groups


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Family Health Fair is Saturday, March 26 in the Sunflower South Building at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. 

The 8 a.m. to noon event is sponsored by Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) There will be 11 complimentary screenings on a first-come-first-serve basis, including

· Carotid Doppler checks designed to determine the onset of plaque buildup in arteries which may lead to heart and vascular issues

· Ask a Pharmacist prescription questions

Staff from the Hutchinson Clinic will be available for Biometric Screenings.

Representatives of Prairie Star Health Center will offer screenings for:

The event is taking place in conjunction with the Soroptomist Women's Show. The Women's Show is in the Meadowlark Building. The Health Fair is free. The women's show is $2, with tickets available at Don’s Custom Floral, the Kansas State Fair Administrative Office, YMCA and the Alley or $4 at the door on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648219683512.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Family Health Fair is Saturday, March 26 in the Sunflower South Building at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. The 8 a.m. to noon event is sponsored by Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) There will be 11 complimentary screenings on a first-come-first-serve basis, including· Carotid Doppler checks designed to determine the onset of plaque buildup in arteries which may lead to heart and vascular issues· Heart risk assessments· Blood pressure checks and BMI· Stroke education· Ask a Pharmacist prescription questions· Depression and anxiety screeningsStaff from the Hutchinson Clinic will be available for Biometric Screenings.Representatives of Prairie Star Health Center will offer screenings for:· Breast cancer· Dental cancer· Diabetic foot issues· Eye glass cleaning and adjustmentsThe event is taking place in conjunction with the Soroptomist Women's Show. The Women's Show is in the Meadowlark Building. The Health Fair is free. The women's show is $2, with tickets available at Don’s Custom Floral, the Kansas State Fair Administrative Office, YMCA and the Alley or $4 at the door on Saturday.

Hospital sponsoring Family Health Fair Saturday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz said that the House of Capper project is not going to be done as soon as originally hoped.

"We had estimated right around $600,000 to $800,000 to do that," Schulz said. "The lowest bid came in at just over $1 million. We're going out to do a little more fundraising with that.

The bid was accepted, but the work hasn't started.

"Construction should start shortly," Schulz said. "The only problem is, with all the steel issues, it will not be open for the 2022 Kansas State Fair. Unfortunately, we'll be probably finishing it up sometime late October."

The House of Capper was built in 1913. That makes it one of the oldest existing buildings on the fairgrounds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648217154052.jpeg" alt="House of Capper File Photo-Courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>House of Capper File Photo-Courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz said that the House of Capper project is not going to be done as soon as originally hoped."We had estimated right around $600,000 to $800,000 to do that," Schulz said. "The lowest bid came in at just over $1 million. We're going out to do a little more fundraising with that.The bid was accepted, but the work hasn't started."Construction should start shortly," Schulz said. "The only problem is, with all the steel issues, it will not be open for the 2022 Kansas State Fair. Unfortunately, we'll be probably finishing it up sometime late October."The House of Capper was built in 1913. That makes it one of the oldest existing buildings on the fairgrounds.

Schulz: House of Capper project delayed

HUTCHINSON, Kan.
— The American Red Cross is holding two blood drives in Reno County Friday, one from noon to 6 p.m. at the Buhler Mennonite Brethren Church at 415 North West in Buhler and the other from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Haven.

There is another drive Saturday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 518 East 43rd in Hutchinson from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Red Cross has resumed testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies for a limited time. Plasma from donations with high levels of COVID-19 antibodies may be used as convalescent plasma.

To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. 

Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. 

High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.&nbsp; 

Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUcXdGVqSttYAQkdVhCfX0IBZIHzWvtIl-2Fb3LI-2BjmWW8fF-2FYmRHHfludK1lqNDdRZCQ0LOLH638ugiCElx7k0yUxVHNHaPVGsAXpvAzMOSpbmylLxbTC6cI9N2YftqozzkuCSH03dkI2w8M7-2FOVBxRwMrGrekwODoDaGQPQ-2Fv99E9s1cFduccbG1yQ5sNq2t4jL1dsDVl2ajSeEAXXdgeMel3g56YOLcDNqzCibo3yCZypEOQzBO6pfb6F9d0Cg-2B1y6xQaXMq-2BdFrmEY-2FwYfQjQ-2FxDUksUZ6kI63PIOTRUCVJl7G2JzPNuaMBRiVtmjwoxcEagwkzlp6TQl-2FK-2Fl-2FI9d3F5W7RnDQEOgWWOxzzo0yFPGuxlRh-2FsrAIhR4IUqTkp-2BjcX6MsCAfbk4QWCQAomuULDEWHxhw4OuFbQQfzQ5uLVenJW46raLbiZ5zbxO7kFFpXrvikkdRC14w4AtNtpZE-3Dz8J8_yHCAJhxBSlmhUj2HvORGwYcX8uUmG4vjl74mPbPdjrJ-2Bdvv3VyiWRMYtsGAu4Z48wRrO3I5eQFXDyRldas-2BMEFdJ0FgGHJbznw71TxVjIA7E871Te-2BpKdLr524QRUc3M7eql8AsGR-2BcUL-2BmInhkbci80IagvvYuwPqvWgqoUmbXqcAwUiyGp4GgkjGmz3FYG6eHUbE5nTqZNgKxLtz-2Fy9gYnZaNdGCIlWzzCWOKZJgJYXu04j12Nd82oOBdhfcsPANUctC5aNyZMtel1vqwcIwiXrs4cqgOCAp3pyOGutiQvuvrmwZ-2FtVgqaCTDOeME156Ui36D4LOaqyYreze-2B966ALyOPFiZL0vXw5dMXIYsw-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUcXdGVqSttYAQkdVhCfX0IBZIHzWvtIl-2Fb3LI-2BjmWW8fF-2FYmRHHfludK1lqNDdRZCQ0LOLH638ugiCElx7k0yUxVHNHaPVGsAXpvAzMOSpbmVTfnASRje-2BmiP6nyrsKEgEkePhaGz6SdklYvCxNT1te2KLK4E1HGTJNMh5AQQzcnwbXzUP0mIqS9mNrd80RTA-2F1-2B22c0FtnO-2Bpr1O1XUMCoGAuEIMKc-2B9GBR6RuUUsVV2lqbNO-2F6YVcS8Qh-2FCSY1K4-2F8xNwGKfHujSRBXu50z1AFKBYnn2-2F4NN-2BL1YaSjwgQsrXOx2Mo8O3-2FDrMCqL4SF0NjOkYszr49cAgQwIgq-2Fcgq3FewceSvMb1TKMmAcP7gdkVWSJk0h2abwKAfD4TJdzts7CLbw1jyqMIh5NaLmf9DhIIqh4mtOsn9LlXfodvIrAYv_yHCAJhxBSlmhUj2HvORGwYcX8uUmG4vjl74mPbPdjrJ-2Bdvv3VyiWRMYtsGAu4Z48wRrO3I5eQFXDyRldas-2BMEFdJ0FgGHJbznw71TxVjIA7E871Te-2BpKdLr524QRUc3M7eql8AsGR-2BcUL-2BmInhkbci80IagvvYuwPqvWgqoUmbXqcAwUiyGp4GgkjGmz3FYG6eHUbE5nTqZNgKxLtz-2Fy9tLzHzonb2aAoHYM0Lx0PYCnc1owXF1R8AuKb0n92f2wRgK-2FjJedTiPaboUF5OhAjwZPHcIlpaxcbKHzn8uF-2FnypPZZmaDIXIgbNCcZoIcRZrovI6YaPtY886cRViNLq-2Fe32nGmXLoWA-2Fr41JkNGJ1Y-3D" target="_blank">Red&nbsp;Cross&nbsp;Blood Donor App</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614983294750.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.
— The American Red Cross is holding two blood drives in Reno County Friday, one from noon to 6 p.m. at the Buhler Mennonite Brethren Church at 415 North West in Buhler and the other from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Haven.There is another drive Saturday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 518 East 43rd in Hutchinson from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.The Red Cross has resumed testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies for a limited time. Plasma from donations with high levels of COVID-19 antibodies may be used as convalescent plasma.To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.&nbsp; Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUcXdGVqSttYAQkdVhCfX0IBZIHzWvtIl-2Fb3LI-2BjmWW8fF-2FYmRHHfludK1lqNDdRZCQ0LOLH638ugiCElx7k0yUxVHNHaPVGsAXpvAzMOSpbmylLxbTC6cI9N2YftqozzkuCSH03dkI2w8M7-2FOVBxRwMrGrekwODoDaGQPQ-2Fv99E9s1cFduccbG1yQ5sNq2t4jL1dsDVl2ajSeEAXXdgeMel3g56YOLcDNqzCibo3yCZypEOQzBO6pfb6F9d0Cg-2B1y6xQaXMq-2BdFrmEY-2FwYfQjQ-2FxDUksUZ6kI63PIOTRUCVJl7G2JzPNuaMBRiVtmjwoxcEagwkzlp6TQl-2FK-2Fl-2FI9d3F5W7RnDQEOgWWOxzzo0yFPGuxlRh-2FsrAIhR4IUqTkp-2BjcX6MsCAfbk4QWCQAomuULDEWHxhw4OuFbQQfzQ5uLVenJW46raLbiZ5zbxO7kFFpXrvikkdRC14w4AtNtpZE-3Dz8J8_yHCAJhxBSlmhUj2HvORGwYcX8uUmG4vjl74mPbPdjrJ-2Bdvv3VyiWRMYtsGAu4Z48wRrO3I5eQFXDyRldas-2BMEFdJ0FgGHJbznw71TxVjIA7E871Te-2BpKdLr524QRUc3M7eql8AsGR-2BcUL-2BmInhkbci80IagvvYuwPqvWgqoUmbXqcAwUiyGp4GgkjGmz3FYG6eHUbE5nTqZNgKxLtz-2Fy9gYnZaNdGCIlWzzCWOKZJgJYXu04j12Nd82oOBdhfcsPANUctC5aNyZMtel1vqwcIwiXrs4cqgOCAp3pyOGutiQvuvrmwZ-2FtVgqaCTDOeME156Ui36D4LOaqyYreze-2B966ALyOPFiZL0vXw5dMXIYsw-3D" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUcXdGVqSttYAQkdVhCfX0IBZIHzWvtIl-2Fb3LI-2BjmWW8fF-2FYmRHHfludK1lqNDdRZCQ0LOLH638ugiCElx7k0yUxVHNHaPVGsAXpvAzMOSpbmVTfnASRje-2BmiP6nyrsKEgEkePhaGz6SdklYvCxNT1te2KLK4E1HGTJNMh5AQQzcnwbXzUP0mIqS9mNrd80RTA-2F1-2B22c0FtnO-2Bpr1O1XUMCoGAuEIMKc-2B9GBR6RuUUsVV2lqbNO-2F6YVcS8Qh-2FCSY1K4-2F8xNwGKfHujSRBXu50z1AFKBYnn2-2F4NN-2BL1YaSjwgQsrXOx2Mo8O3-2FDrMCqL4SF0NjOkYszr49cAgQwIgq-2Fcgq3FewceSvMb1TKMmAcP7gdkVWSJk0h2abwKAfD4TJdzts7CLbw1jyqMIh5NaLmf9DhIIqh4mtOsn9LlXfodvIrAYv_yHCAJhxBSlmhUj2HvORGwYcX8uUmG4vjl74mPbPdjrJ-2Bdvv3VyiWRMYtsGAu4Z48wRrO3I5eQFXDyRldas-2BMEFdJ0FgGHJbznw71TxVjIA7E871Te-2BpKdLr524QRUc3M7eql8AsGR-2BcUL-2BmInhkbci80IagvvYuwPqvWgqoUmbXqcAwUiyGp4GgkjGmz3FYG6eHUbE5nTqZNgKxLtz-2Fy9tLzHzonb2aAoHYM0Lx0PYCnc1owXF1R8AuKb0n92f2wRgK-2FjJedTiPaboUF5OhAjwZPHcIlpaxcbKHzn8uF-2FnypPZZmaDIXIgbNCcZoIcRZrovI6YaPtY886cRViNLq-2Fe32nGmXLoWA-2Fr41JkNGJ1Y-3D" target="_blank">Red&nbsp;Cross&nbsp;Blood Donor App</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reno County community blood drives Friday, Saturday


HAVEN,
Kan. —&nbsp;The City of Haven's 2022 Consumer Confidence Report for its water system was released this week. 

The report explains where water for that city comes from, how it's treated and what the city's testing has found over the 2021 testing year.

You can read the report <a href="https://media.rainpos.com/3952/ccr_2022.pdf?fbclid=IwAR3JRTI4qhGOMQ-8GpA_2p9bGpUcJdkggdxGHYiUodnunbFIgr9b0I00j7U">here</a>.

Paper copies have been mailed to all Haven City Customers and are available at the City Office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090767638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HAVEN,
Kan. —&nbsp;The City of Haven's 2022 Consumer Confidence Report for its water system was released this week. The report explains where water for that city comes from, how it's treated and what the city's testing has found over the 2021 testing year.You can read the report <a href="https://media.rainpos.com/3952/ccr_2022.pdf?fbclid=IwAR3JRTI4qhGOMQ-8GpA_2p9bGpUcJdkggdxGHYiUodnunbFIgr9b0I00j7U">here</a>.Paper copies have been mailed to all Haven City Customers and are available at the City Office.&nbsp;

City of Haven water report released

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Zoo is hiring for several seasonal positions.

Seasonal Zookeeper Aide: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FSeasonalZookeeperAide%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2K4i0DjJgOqRD_0-CtS8aWIKzccRxJgkLLS9Oh25WZXT_k1P987f5E7xs&amp;h=AT1q4o6d04Y80SKclQHrS2azqwTrplrIWG9SlxBeGwsEi-nIvwXmymf2dfwycpFWAI3syEe6iw_oSPu5m_MoeFyipOJ9XJC0dSRHkeOXA9HY7reierOVhirBt7HRlydDSA&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT25pxNzriniLFZU6jV1XZ4w-1J1KRmL3LOXwlBqxjOlH27Lt7JSkGn9RJiDhHNxTYLj7cECtei_0NAGDWO3yDL76p8JL4GgfazXL-2FdvYyU98lYw-8py08yoG0lvbxNLzGaTsw6rw3lcgF_ZZn6I8TEyIf-m5S_vaHrJCdbiKtBv9eVD6ltjC34nr370vG4WRFAg" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/SeasonalZookeeperAide</a> Seasonal Rehabilitation Assistant:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FSeasonalRehabTech%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2xcAV6hfI_2D7qvIYjBT6F9iGp7puUTDBSTwb391NkqYupT1I0nojhCmg&amp;h=AT1y5FfFsIpZpxs0EvuG108h8bR-gF-g7Xm7Cd4V6u7aSCcP_ilwL5DDokd36hhxteBNEmqndjR5ilKQ4pzxQ1eruT6JmhiVbxnaVDaTtSYuLMMu5JGh5VQNASVyFWFwkw&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT25pxNzriniLFZU6jV1XZ4w-1J1KRmL3LOXwlBqxjOlH27Lt7JSkGn9RJiDhHNxTYLj7cECtei_0NAGDWO3yDL76p8JL4GgfazXL-2FdvYyU98lYw-8py08yoG0lvbxNLzGaTsw6rw3lcgF_ZZn6I8TEyIf-m5S_vaHrJCdbiKtBv9eVD6ltjC34nr370vG4WRFAg" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/SeasonalRehabTech</a> Seasonal Education Assistant: <a href="https://bit.ly/SeasonalEducationAssistant?fbclid=IwAR3w4QCp-t30WDM9FSeoXEMLfOdlYR0Sx0YW5YcXdA3D5Hv3edm7PqwA1JU" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/SeasonalEducationAssistant</a> Special Activities Assistant:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/SpecialActivitiesAssistant?fbclid=IwAR3oZrIcwkO9FXzmNvoKqC2Mq7xMTouzdMI-gsH_tk06zXsikG4sBoLkHLs" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/SpecialActivitiesAssistant</a> Part-Time Zookeeper Aide:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/PTZookeeperAide?fbclid=IwAR0pSbqMWBF1WKGZaiSBHsE6P7fyggnhRQnfM1BksStEGlgmqn8-2TofUX4" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/PTZookeeperAide</a>

Job descriptions are available at the city's hiring site.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648203695292.jpeg" alt="HutchZooLogo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>HutchZooLogo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Zoo is hiring for several seasonal positions. Seasonal Zookeeper Aide: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FSeasonalZookeeperAide%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2K4i0DjJgOqRD_0-CtS8aWIKzccRxJgkLLS9Oh25WZXT_k1P987f5E7xs&amp;h=AT1q4o6d04Y80SKclQHrS2azqwTrplrIWG9SlxBeGwsEi-nIvwXmymf2dfwycpFWAI3syEe6iw_oSPu5m_MoeFyipOJ9XJC0dSRHkeOXA9HY7reierOVhirBt7HRlydDSA&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT25pxNzriniLFZU6jV1XZ4w-1J1KRmL3LOXwlBqxjOlH27Lt7JSkGn9RJiDhHNxTYLj7cECtei_0NAGDWO3yDL76p8JL4GgfazXL-2FdvYyU98lYw-8py08yoG0lvbxNLzGaTsw6rw3lcgF_ZZn6I8TEyIf-m5S_vaHrJCdbiKtBv9eVD6ltjC34nr370vG4WRFAg" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/SeasonalZookeeperAide</a> Seasonal Rehabilitation Assistant:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FSeasonalRehabTech%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2xcAV6hfI_2D7qvIYjBT6F9iGp7puUTDBSTwb391NkqYupT1I0nojhCmg&amp;h=AT1y5FfFsIpZpxs0EvuG108h8bR-gF-g7Xm7Cd4V6u7aSCcP_ilwL5DDokd36hhxteBNEmqndjR5ilKQ4pzxQ1eruT6JmhiVbxnaVDaTtSYuLMMu5JGh5VQNASVyFWFwkw&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT25pxNzriniLFZU6jV1XZ4w-1J1KRmL3LOXwlBqxjOlH27Lt7JSkGn9RJiDhHNxTYLj7cECtei_0NAGDWO3yDL76p8JL4GgfazXL-2FdvYyU98lYw-8py08yoG0lvbxNLzGaTsw6rw3lcgF_ZZn6I8TEyIf-m5S_vaHrJCdbiKtBv9eVD6ltjC34nr370vG4WRFAg" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/SeasonalRehabTech</a> Seasonal Education Assistant: <a href="https://bit.ly/SeasonalEducationAssistant?fbclid=IwAR3w4QCp-t30WDM9FSeoXEMLfOdlYR0Sx0YW5YcXdA3D5Hv3edm7PqwA1JU" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/SeasonalEducationAssistant</a> Special Activities Assistant:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/SpecialActivitiesAssistant?fbclid=IwAR3oZrIcwkO9FXzmNvoKqC2Mq7xMTouzdMI-gsH_tk06zXsikG4sBoLkHLs" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/SpecialActivitiesAssistant</a> Part-Time Zookeeper Aide:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/PTZookeeperAide?fbclid=IwAR0pSbqMWBF1WKGZaiSBHsE6P7fyggnhRQnfM1BksStEGlgmqn8-2TofUX4" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/PTZookeeperAide</a> Job descriptions are available at the city's hiring site.

Hutchinson Zoo looking for seasonal workers

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan.
— The first Final Friday "Night on the Prairie" event for the Pretty Prairie Community Association is scheduled for Friday, April 29th. 

It will be the annual car show. The group is looking for vendors for that evening and charging $10 per vendor. Proceeds help fund Final Friday events. 

That weekend is also the same weekend as the Pretty Prairie community-wide garage sales. If you are interested in being on the map, the fee is $5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648205481557.jpeg" alt="PrettyPrairiePhoto.jpg" />
 <figcaption>PrettyPrairiePhoto.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan.
— The first Final Friday "Night on the Prairie" event for the Pretty Prairie Community Association is scheduled for Friday, April 29th. It will be the annual car show. The group is looking for vendors for that evening and charging $10 per vendor. Proceeds help fund Final Friday events. That weekend is also the same weekend as the Pretty Prairie community-wide garage sales. If you are interested in being on the map, the fee is $5.

Night on the Prairie coming up April 29

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards isn't sure exactly how much effect the open borders bill that would allow Kansas students to attend in any district they chose would practically be different than current policy, depending on how school districts determine how many educational slots they have for new students.

"We've been managing this for decades in Kansas," Tallman said. Most districts do allow students in. If they don't, it's probably already because of capacity issues. The question is, what will this bill really accomplish?"

School boards already can turn down individual open enrollment requests from students that don't live in their district.

"It's up to the school board to decide," Tallman said. "Theoretically, a district right now could say, we're full, based on how we define full. I don't think that's the intention of the supporters."

It's a key difference between the Senate and House versions of the bill. The Senate bill is supposed to define full based on pupil teacher ratio. The House bill doesn't get that specific. That's just one area where a conference committee that will start meeting next week will have to come to an agreement that both houses can pass.

"This is one of the few cases where the House and Senate have both passed a similar topic, but with quite a few differences procedurally," Tallman said. "I think there will be a lot that will have to be worked through when they get to that bill."

Right now, at least on the House side, Republicans only have a narrow majority at 63-59 on the legislation, so potential changes could scuttle the idea entirely.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards isn't sure exactly how much effect the open borders bill that would allow Kansas students to attend in any district they chose would practically be different than current policy, depending on how school districts determine how many educational slots they have for new students."We've been managing this for decades in Kansas," Tallman said. Most districts do allow students in. If they don't, it's probably already because of capacity issues. The question is, what will this bill really accomplish?"School boards already can turn down individual open enrollment requests from students that don't live in their district."It's up to the school board to decide," Tallman said. "Theoretically, a district right now could say, we're full, based on how we define full. I don't think that's the intention of the supporters."It's a key difference between the Senate and House versions of the bill. The Senate bill is supposed to define full based on pupil teacher ratio. The House bill doesn't get that specific. That's just one area where a conference committee that will start meeting next week will have to come to an agreement that both houses can pass."This is one of the few cases where the House and Senate have both passed a similar topic, but with quite a few differences procedurally," Tallman said. "I think there will be a lot that will have to be worked through when they get to that bill."Right now, at least on the House side, Republicans only have a narrow majority at 63-59 on the legislation, so potential changes could scuttle the idea entirely.

Tallman: Still a lot to work out in K-12 'open borders' bill

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
According to a social media post this week, second graders in <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/e852ffef-a867-4679-9647-8d71a085c903?fbclid=IwAR2s8eY5CNVwj6jbjJgf_kjotiDxoqKYBUKVi0IKaj_C8cBhQ4c0SDy47kA">Mrs. Starkweather's class at Plum Creek Elementary</a> got to join an official NASA experiment by planting tomato seeds that spent a month on the International Space Station.

They will track germination and present their findings at the Cosmosphere in two weeks.&nbsp; 

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8c245cf9-e011-4461-82cc-270e0e0d6c41">As previously reported, astronaut Nick Hague will be here April 5 </a>to speak at the Dillon Lecture Series and also touch base with&nbsp;Tomatosphere™ students.

Starkweather is one of a group of teachers in the Launch Learning program with Cosmosphere.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="Buhler USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Buhler USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
According to a social media post this week, second graders in <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/e852ffef-a867-4679-9647-8d71a085c903?fbclid=IwAR2s8eY5CNVwj6jbjJgf_kjotiDxoqKYBUKVi0IKaj_C8cBhQ4c0SDy47kA">Mrs. Starkweather's class at Plum Creek Elementary</a> got to join an official NASA experiment by planting tomato seeds that spent a month on the International Space Station. They will track germination and present their findings at the Cosmosphere in two weeks.&nbsp; <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8c245cf9-e011-4461-82cc-270e0e0d6c41">As previously reported, astronaut Nick Hague will be here April 5 </a>to speak at the Dillon Lecture Series and also touch base with&nbsp;Tomatosphere™ students.Starkweather is one of a group of teachers in the Launch Learning program with Cosmosphere.

Buhler USD 313 class part of Tomatosphere™ challenge

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even though it looks like bipartisan consensus has been reached on the state house and state senate redistricting maps, the Kansas Attorney General's Office still has litigation to deal with when it comes to the state's Congressional maps. That litigation is going to start in district court in the counties where the suits have been filed, Wyandotte and Douglas.

"We're going to have to litigate it in state District Court," said Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt. "Then, there will inevitably be an appeal to the state Supreme Court by whichever side loses in the district court. That's going to stretch out the time line."

There isn't a ton of time to get these maps done, the candidate filing deadline is June 1.

"Federal law sets out the timelines and rules for mailing ballots to military voters who are overseas," Schmidt said. "You have to comply with that law so that our deployed service personnel who vote in Kansas have the ability to receive their ballots and get them back before the primary in August."

In case there is a primary on August 2 for any of the congressional seats, 45 days before that election would be June 18. That's a Saturday, so the last business day before that 45 days would be Friday, June 17.

"This really needs to be wrapped up, I hope in April," Schmidt said. "May is pushing it, but we can make that work. If we get into June, that would be trouble."

Schmidt is confident that whatever you think about the maps from a political perspective, they follow the rules as the legislature knew them when they voted on it, but it remains to be seen what state courts might do. There is already precedent that if the U.S. Supreme Court gets involved, they might allow the maps to stand for 2022 while briefing for full argument after that, but Schmidt doesn't think the case will go that far.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even though it looks like bipartisan consensus has been reached on the state house and state senate redistricting maps, the Kansas Attorney General's Office still has litigation to deal with when it comes to the state's Congressional maps. That litigation is going to start in district court in the counties where the suits have been filed, Wyandotte and Douglas."We're going to have to litigate it in state District Court," said Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt. "Then, there will inevitably be an appeal to the state Supreme Court by whichever side loses in the district court. That's going to stretch out the time line."There isn't a ton of time to get these maps done, the candidate filing deadline is June 1."Federal law sets out the timelines and rules for mailing ballots to military voters who are overseas," Schmidt said. "You have to comply with that law so that our deployed service personnel who vote in Kansas have the ability to receive their ballots and get them back before the primary in August."In case there is a primary on August 2 for any of the congressional seats, 45 days before that election would be June 18. That's a Saturday, so the last business day before that 45 days would be Friday, June 17."This really needs to be wrapped up, I hope in April," Schmidt said. "May is pushing it, but we can make that work. If we get into June, that would be trouble."Schmidt is confident that whatever you think about the maps from a political perspective, they follow the rules as the legislature knew them when they voted on it, but it remains to be seen what state courts might do. There is already precedent that if the U.S. Supreme Court gets involved, they might allow the maps to stand for 2022 while briefing for full argument after that, but Schmidt doesn't think the case will go that far.

Schmidt: Congressional map litigation on tight timeline

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even with the hotel capacity challenges Hutchinson continues to face, the NJCAA Tournament isn't going anywhere.

"Dr. Parker was here from NJCAA for the first couple of days," said LeAnn Cox with Visit Hutch. "We did talk with him and he has concerns about the community adequately supporting this championship, just because of the hotel situation. The City of Hutchinson heard that message and conveyed back to Dr. Parker, we are going to solve this problem. I felt much better after having that conversation."

The city has said it is not going to go forward with the Atrium Hotel purchase, so what are the other location options?

"We had a consultant come in back in 2018," Cox said. "They identified, location wise, in the K-61 corridor. That could be anywhere from 11th Street north up to, I guess you could go as far as between 17th and 30th, close to K-61, not too far off of that, either side. Anywhere between 11th to at least 17th to 23rd, maybe."

A fairgrounds hotel, though it is still an idea, wouldn't be enough rooms or have the convention center space that Hutchinson needs to even out hotel demand outside of the tournament and the fair.

"We have talked to the market," Cox said. "They have told us that they want to come to Hutchinson. We haven't quite abandoned that. We have maybe taken a slight detour just out of the bare necessity. Inventory of hotel rooms, we are desperate for. Coming off of last week with nine teams that were here for the championship, we had to put nine teams out of town. They had to stay and travel back and forth. That's never a good situation for the teams, for the student athletes that have earned their way to come to the championship, nor for the community of Hutchinson, because all those dollars are being spent now, out of town in Wichita and McPherson, when they go out to eat, when they have some downtime and maybe want to go to attractions. All that money we're losing. We are desperate to get hotel rooms back here in Hutchinson."

Even if someone called today and offered a deal on a new hotel and the land was easy to acquire and there were no other roadblocks, it would still most likely be two years before that new property would be open at tournament time. However, the hope is that the process can begin at some non-Atrium location later this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648133130246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even with the hotel capacity challenges Hutchinson continues to face, the NJCAA Tournament isn't going anywhere."Dr. Parker was here from NJCAA for the first couple of days," said LeAnn Cox with Visit Hutch. "We did talk with him and he has concerns about the community adequately supporting this championship, just because of the hotel situation. The City of Hutchinson heard that message and conveyed back to Dr. Parker, we are going to solve this problem. I felt much better after having that conversation."The city has said it is not going to go forward with the Atrium Hotel purchase, so what are the other location options?"We had a consultant come in back in 2018," Cox said. "They identified, location wise, in the K-61 corridor. That could be anywhere from 11th Street north up to, I guess you could go as far as between 17th and 30th, close to K-61, not too far off of that, either side. Anywhere between 11th to at least 17th to 23rd, maybe."A fairgrounds hotel, though it is still an idea, wouldn't be enough rooms or have the convention center space that Hutchinson needs to even out hotel demand outside of the tournament and the fair."We have talked to the market," Cox said. "They have told us that they want to come to Hutchinson. We haven't quite abandoned that. We have maybe taken a slight detour just out of the bare necessity. Inventory of hotel rooms, we are desperate for. Coming off of last week with nine teams that were here for the championship, we had to put nine teams out of town. They had to stay and travel back and forth. That's never a good situation for the teams, for the student athletes that have earned their way to come to the championship, nor for the community of Hutchinson, because all those dollars are being spent now, out of town in Wichita and McPherson, when they go out to eat, when they have some downtime and maybe want to go to attractions. All that money we're losing. We are desperate to get hotel rooms back here in Hutchinson."Even if someone called today and offered a deal on a new hotel and the land was easy to acquire and there were no other roadblocks, it would still most likely be two years before that new property would be open at tournament time. However, the hope is that the process can begin at some non-Atrium location later this year.

Cox: NJCAA tournament staying, despite hotel concerns


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson is no longer going to issue burn permits on the weekends starting next month.

According to a release from the Hutchinson Fire Department, beginning April 1, burn permits will only be available from the Community Risk Division between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Anyone wishing to burn must call ahead to obtain a burn permit if it will happen on the weekend.

The phone number to request a permit is (620) 694-2871. All weekend phone calls will be returned the following week.

Open burning is already banned during Red Flag Warning days. 

All outdoor burning, except that which is contained in an outdoor fireplace, grill, chiminea or fire pit no bigger than 3x2 requires a burn permit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641488830033.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson is no longer going to issue burn permits on the weekends starting next month.According to a release from the Hutchinson Fire Department, beginning April 1, burn permits will only be available from the Community Risk Division between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.Anyone wishing to burn must call ahead to obtain a burn permit if it will happen on the weekend.The phone number to request a permit is (620) 694-2871. All weekend phone calls will be returned the following week.Open burning is already banned during Red Flag Warning days. All outdoor burning, except that which is contained in an outdoor fireplace, grill, chiminea or fire pit no bigger than 3x2 requires a burn permit.

No weekend burn permit issuance in Hutch starting next month

HARVEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 373 officials are reporting an unfortunate miscommunication that startled students in Newton Wednesday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621026307289.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 373 officials are reporting an unfortunate miscommunication that startled students in Newton Wednesday afternoon.Just after 4p.m. that day, Chisholm Middle School at 900 East First Street in Newton, was running a staff training drill for an active shooter situation, according to a social media report from Newton Police. Unfortunately, a small group of students who were still in the building heard an announcement over the PA system but did not hear the word “drill” and believed it was a real active shooter. The students hid in a restroom and called 911. Law enforcement from around the county began to respond, and Newton officers arrived at the school almost immediately.Newton Police said, "this was a very scary situation for those students, but thankfully they were not in danger. Drills are an important part of preparing for emergencies to keep students and staff safe, and this was an unfortunate misunderstanding."

Local