HESSTON, Kan. — Potential legislation in Topeka is forcing the Hesston USD 460 School District to delay a vote on a major facilities improvement bond issue.

Senate Bill 341 could significantly impact state aid percentage on the bond project. As written, the bill would increase the amount of funding from outside the school district by $12-$15 million and would allow the district to lessen its mill increase from 10.62 to just 3.0 mills. Importantly, the bill specifies that this change would apply to bond elections that are held after July 1, 2022.

The district was to vote April 26 on a $33.5 million project that would include adding on to the current high school and moving the middle school students to that new addition. It would also include a new auxiliary gymnasium, and new auditorium and renovation of current facilities at the high school.

With the pending legislation, the school board has decided to move the vote after July 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645022939921.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HESSTON, Kan. — Potential legislation in Topeka is forcing the Hesston USD 460 School District to delay a vote on a major facilities improvement bond issue.Senate Bill 341 could significantly impact state aid percentage on the bond project. As written, the bill would increase the amount of funding from outside the school district by $12-$15 million and would allow the district to lessen its mill increase from 10.62 to just 3.0 mills. Importantly, the bill specifies that this change would apply to bond elections that are held after July 1, 2022.The district was to vote April 26 on a $33.5 million project that would include adding on to the current high school and moving the middle school students to that new addition. It would also include a new auxiliary gymnasium, and new auditorium and renovation of current facilities at the high school.With the pending legislation, the school board has decided to move the vote after July 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Vote on bond delayed in USD 460 pending legislation in Topeka

ZENDA, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Zenda in Kingman County. The advisory was issued because of a loss in pressure due to routine system maintenance.

The small community was put on the advisory last week.

Laboratory testing samples collected from Zenda indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646254007534.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ZENDA, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Zenda in Kingman County. The advisory was issued because of a loss in pressure due to routine system maintenance.The small community was put on the advisory last week.Laboratory testing samples collected from Zenda indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Boil water advisory lifted for Zenda

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Horizons Mental Health Center to bring Leadercast to Hutchinson on Wednesday, May 4, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church.

Leadercast is the largest one-day leadership event in the world. Broadcast live from Cincinnati, Ohio, to hundreds of locations around the world, Leadercast brings together some of the most recognized and respected global leaders to answer one question: What is the one thing that makes a leader worth following?

The cost to participate is $79 before April 23 and $89 after that. You can register at <a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/Leadercast2022%20%20The%20One%20Thing-9671/register">hutchchamber.com</a>. For more information, call the Chamber at 620-662-3391.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648051375914.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Horizons Mental Health Center to bring Leadercast to Hutchinson on Wednesday, May 4, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church.Leadercast is the largest one-day leadership event in the world. Broadcast live from Cincinnati, Ohio, to hundreds of locations around the world, Leadercast brings together some of the most recognized and respected global leaders to answer one question: What is the one thing that makes a leader worth following?The cost to participate is $79 before April 23 and $89 after that. You can register at <a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/Leadercast2022%20%20The%20One%20Thing-9671/register">hutchchamber.com</a>. For more information, call the Chamber at 620-662-3391.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Leadercast event May 4 in Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Court of Appeals has upheld a lower court's decision to deny a motion to correct an illegal sentence against a Hutchinson man convicted of kidnapping in a home invasion case.

Dakota Anderson is serving just over 20 years in prison for convictions of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of aggravated robbery, two counts of aggravated burglary and felony theft of a firearm. He was convicted in the abduction of Brent Rump in May of 2015.

Anderson was one of four men accused of breaking into Rump's home the night of May 14, beating him and then stealing several items, including two vehicles.&nbsp;

Ansderson claims he was not properly sentenced on the kidnapping charge, noting that it was simple kidnapping and not aggravated kidnapping. Anderson all but conceded that he did the crime against Rump but felt he should have received less time behind bars. Anderson noted that he never inflicted bodily harm on Rump, which constitutes aggravated kidnapping.&nbsp;

But the court disagreed. The Court of Appeals upheld the conviction and sentence, noting that the state properly charged Anderson with aggravated kidnapping. The trial court properly instructed the jury on aggravated kidnapping. The jury convicted Anderson of aggravated kidnapping. The trial court did not impose an illegal sentence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648049594797.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Court of Appeals has upheld a lower court's decision to deny a motion to correct an illegal sentence against a Hutchinson man convicted of kidnapping in a home invasion case.Dakota Anderson is serving just over 20 years in prison for convictions of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of aggravated robbery, two counts of aggravated burglary and felony theft of a firearm. He was convicted in the abduction of Brent Rump in May of 2015.Anderson was one of four men accused of breaking into Rump's home the night of May 14, beating him and then stealing several items, including two vehicles.&nbsp;Ansderson claims he was not properly sentenced on the kidnapping charge, noting that it was simple kidnapping and not aggravated kidnapping. Anderson all but conceded that he did the crime against Rump but felt he should have received less time behind bars. Anderson noted that he never inflicted bodily harm on Rump, which constitutes aggravated kidnapping.&nbsp;But the court disagreed. The Court of Appeals upheld the conviction and sentence, noting that the state properly charged Anderson with aggravated kidnapping. The trial court properly instructed the jury on aggravated kidnapping. The jury convicted Anderson of aggravated kidnapping. The trial court did not impose an illegal sentence.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Court of Appeals upholds sentence in kidnapping conviction


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As part of the consent agenda at the Board of County Commissioners meeting Tuesday was a refurbishment deal for a piece of landfill equipment. Commissioner Ron Hirst explained why this was a good deal for taxpayers.

"In place of buying new equipment, when it reaches a certain hourly period, the landfill contracts with Caterpillar to do a complete rebuild, which allows another ten to fifteen thousand hours on that for half the cost of buying new," Hirst said. "That's about as efficient as you can get with regard to equipment and money, future money."

Commissioner Daniel Friesen was surprised that the amount of $432,702.12 was half of a replacement.

"That price looks new...what's a new one cost?", Friesen asked.

Hirst said a new scraper would be over $800,000. The item and the rest of the consent agenda was passed unanimously.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641506527525.jpg" alt="dollars, currency, money" />
 <figcaption>dollars, currency, money</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As part of the consent agenda at the Board of County Commissioners meeting Tuesday was a refurbishment deal for a piece of landfill equipment. Commissioner Ron Hirst explained why this was a good deal for taxpayers."In place of buying new equipment, when it reaches a certain hourly period, the landfill contracts with Caterpillar to do a complete rebuild, which allows another ten to fifteen thousand hours on that for half the cost of buying new," Hirst said. "That's about as efficient as you can get with regard to equipment and money, future money."Commissioner Daniel Friesen was surprised that the amount of $432,702.12 was half of a replacement."That price looks new...what's a new one cost?", Friesen asked.Hirst said a new scraper would be over $800,000. The item and the rest of the consent agenda was passed unanimously.

Landfill equipment refurbishment will save county significantly


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Both the Board of County Commissioners and the Hutchinson City Council agreed that the three brush trucks, new personal protective gear and bringing existing brush trucks up to current standards were worth spending money on when they met Tuesday. Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer said this is about keeping his firefighters safe.

"I almost lost two firefighters here last week and it really bothered me," Beer told the City Council Tuesday night. "It has bothered me immensely. I don't think anybody here realizes how close we had some of our calls with a truck that was burned up. I've got to do everything as your chief to make sure my men and women on the front lines battling these things on a daily basis are safe. I say a prayer every night that I don't have to be the person knocking on somebody's door at 2:00 in the morning saying we lost a firefighter and I take that to heart."

Beer also asked for replacement for lost tools, hose and equipment from the recent fires. The total request comes to $880,000. Each governing body will contribute half of the cost.

"My men and women deserve to have the best protective gear to do the jobs that they do," Beer said. "Our starting firefighters make $14.48 an hour. None of my firefighters do this to get rich. It's my job to make sure that they go home the next day and make sure they have the equipment and the tools to do their job. I appreciate the support that you have given our organization and I think this truly sends a strong message to my organization. My president is right here of Local 179 and it sends a strong message to my men and women that they know that you have their backs and you're supporting them when they are on the front lines battling these situations."

Union president and Captain Troy Mueller explained to the council how far they've come in wildland firefighting.

"When we merged with the county in 2000 and started running outside of the city into the county and started fighting wildland fires, we were still fighting wildland fires in the same gear that we go into structure fires with," Mueller said. "We didn't have anything for wildland. In a couple of years, we actually got brush coats, lighter weight coats, but we were still wearing our structural firefighting pants. We moved up from that to where we actually had wildland pants and wildland coats and boots and the first set that we got was awarded on a 50-50 grant from the Kansas Forest Service. That was a huge step forward for us in being able to fight wildland fires and not having to wear the cumbersome heavy gear that we wear to go into structure fires. The fatigue level when you're out on those, it just increases greatly when you wear that heavy gear. We have been replacing that as it needed to be replaced, but a lot of that gear, it's over 10 years old. The number of wildland fires that we go on annually have been increasing every year. We go on more and more grass fires every year. As more people move out into the urban interface, the threat increases to our citizens because they are in that area and so you have that greater threat of grassland fires in the wildland urban interface."

With warmer temperatures and less grazing going on, in addition to the invasive cedars getting into the grassland, there's just more fuel and drier fuel for the fires than there used to be.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648032836499.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Both the Board of County Commissioners and the Hutchinson City Council agreed that the three brush trucks, new personal protective gear and bringing existing brush trucks up to current standards were worth spending money on when they met Tuesday. Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer said this is about keeping his firefighters safe."I almost lost two firefighters here last week and it really bothered me," Beer told the City Council Tuesday night. "It has bothered me immensely. I don't think anybody here realizes how close we had some of our calls with a truck that was burned up. I've got to do everything as your chief to make sure my men and women on the front lines battling these things on a daily basis are safe. I say a prayer every night that I don't have to be the person knocking on somebody's door at 2:00 in the morning saying we lost a firefighter and I take that to heart."Beer also asked for replacement for lost tools, hose and equipment from the recent fires. The total request comes to $880,000. Each governing body will contribute half of the cost."My men and women deserve to have the best protective gear to do the jobs that they do," Beer said. "Our starting firefighters make $14.48 an hour. None of my firefighters do this to get rich. It's my job to make sure that they go home the next day and make sure they have the equipment and the tools to do their job. I appreciate the support that you have given our organization and I think this truly sends a strong message to my organization. My president is right here of Local 179 and it sends a strong message to my men and women that they know that you have their backs and you're supporting them when they are on the front lines battling these situations."Union president and Captain Troy Mueller explained to the council how far they've come in wildland firefighting."When we merged with the county in 2000 and started running outside of the city into the county and started fighting wildland fires, we were still fighting wildland fires in the same gear that we go into structure fires with," Mueller said. "We didn't have anything for wildland. In a couple of years, we actually got brush coats, lighter weight coats, but we were still wearing our structural firefighting pants. We moved up from that to where we actually had wildland pants and wildland coats and boots and the first set that we got was awarded on a 50-50 grant from the Kansas Forest Service. That was a huge step forward for us in being able to fight wildland fires and not having to wear the cumbersome heavy gear that we wear to go into structure fires. The fatigue level when you're out on those, it just increases greatly when you wear that heavy gear. We have been replacing that as it needed to be replaced, but a lot of that gear, it's over 10 years old. The number of wildland fires that we go on annually have been increasing every year. We go on more and more grass fires every year. As more people move out into the urban interface, the threat increases to our citizens because they are in that area and so you have that greater threat of grassland fires in the wildland urban interface."With warmer temperatures and less grazing going on, in addition to the invasive cedars getting into the grassland, there's just more fuel and drier fuel for the fires than there used to be.

Fire chief, union president explain need for new equipment

Clarification: Times on the auctions for Saturday, April 9 were initially posted incorrectly. Hutch Post regrets the error.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The annual Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale is back for another year. The 54th annual event is set for April 8 and 9 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

As always, there will be the Feeding of the Multitude Friday from 4:30 until 7:30 p.m. Saturday’s activities include the 5K run at 8 a.m. at Rice Park, the quilt auction at 8:45 and the general auction begins at 8:45 a.m., with a collectible toy auction at 11 a.m.

Some of the items include more than 200 quilts, all handmade, several antique tractors and vehicles, and the usual handcrafted furniture items and toys. Many other kids activities are also available, including the state fair's giant slide.

The silent auction features golf and vacation packages, a handcrafted and fully-furnished dollhouse and a stay at a B-n-B.

For more information, go to <a href="http://www.kansas.mccsale.org">www.kansas.mccsale.org</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansas.mccsale">Facebook</a>. All proceeds benefit the Mennonite relief effort that helps those in need around the world.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647981564208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clarification: Times on the auctions for Saturday, April 9 were initially posted incorrectly. Hutch Post regrets the error.HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The annual Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale is back for another year. The 54th annual event is set for April 8 and 9 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.As always, there will be the Feeding of the Multitude Friday from 4:30 until 7:30 p.m. Saturday’s activities include the 5K run at 8 a.m. at Rice Park, the quilt auction at 8:45 and the general auction begins at 8:45 a.m., with a collectible toy auction at 11 a.m.Some of the items include more than 200 quilts, all handmade, several antique tractors and vehicles, and the usual handcrafted furniture items and toys. Many other kids activities are also available, including the state fair's giant slide.The silent auction features golf and vacation packages, a handcrafted and fully-furnished dollhouse and a stay at a B-n-B.For more information, go to <a href="http://www.kansas.mccsale.org">www.kansas.mccsale.org</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansas.mccsale">Facebook</a>. All proceeds benefit the Mennonite relief effort that helps those in need around the world.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

54th MCC sale is April 8 and 9

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
After the fire mitigation presentation to the county commission, each commissioner had different areas of the multifaceted problem that they saw as important to giving firefighters a better chance to fight the fires that occur.

"We need to start allowing houses to be developed on larger pieces of property rather than smaller pieces of property, which is discussed in this document," said commissioner Ron Sellers. "How those are developed, I think, has some meaning to me. I think that could be researched and better developed by the planning department and planning commission than us, maybe."

The issue is that some landowners won't abide by regulations, no matter how they are written and also that areas around Pretty Prairie and Turon and Buhler all have different terrain.

"One of the things that has made us unsuccessful in the past is that we have county wide policy," said commissioner Daniel Friesen. "There may need to be some more granular application of restrictions in areas of high risk. I think it was identified here that we have different risk zones."

According to the 2009 Kansas Forest Service report cited in the mitigation agenda documents, here are the risks found back then:

1. South Hutchinson and the developed areas nearby.

4. Pretty Prairie—it is noted in the report that if the surrounding fuel loads gain intensity, then a problem could be created.

5. Turon—it is noted that if the area of hardwood timber on the south end of town accumulates a large amount of dead trees or limbs, it could be a threat in years to come.

1. East of Kent Road, South of 4th street

Data from USDA-NRCS shows that Reno County is losing a battle against woody plant encroachment, causing high fire danger in additional areas over the intervening years. 

Friesen asked Weishaar to get together with the Forest Service to try to get an updated map as they prepare to set policy. It was also suggested that the county could hire an outside person to educate the public about the risk associated with their home. Friesen was in support of that idea.

"We need an outside party to do that," Friesen said. "If you can get with stakeholders to bring that back to us, there would be interest in considering approval of a classification of high risk properties in the county."

There was also consensus to edit the county's 2017 burn resolution.

"It sounded like we had consensus on adding some teeth to some of the individuals that are not acting in good faith on fire management issues," Friesen said. 

An example given in the supporting documents was a situation on 56th and Plum where the fire department responded to a controlled burn that was out of control. The homeowner was told not to burn unless she got more people. As soon as the fire department left, the homeowner asked the neighbor to help her. The fire got away again and the fire department was called. The homeowner did not violate the resolution because the fire department does not have the authority under the 2017 resolution to tell someone not to burn, even if their controlled burn has already been out of control once that day. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647957899469.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
After the fire mitigation presentation to the county commission, each commissioner had different areas of the multifaceted problem that they saw as important to giving firefighters a better chance to fight the fires that occur."We need to start allowing houses to be developed on larger pieces of property rather than smaller pieces of property, which is discussed in this document," said commissioner Ron Sellers. "How those are developed, I think, has some meaning to me. I think that could be researched and better developed by the planning department and planning commission than us, maybe."The issue is that some landowners won't abide by regulations, no matter how they are written and also that areas around Pretty Prairie and Turon and Buhler all have different terrain."One of the things that has made us unsuccessful in the past is that we have county wide policy," said commissioner Daniel Friesen. "There may need to be some more granular application of restrictions in areas of high risk. I think it was identified here that we have different risk zones."According to the 2009 Kansas Forest Service report cited in the mitigation agenda documents, here are the risks found back then:Low hazard rated communities:1. South Hutchinson and the developed areas nearby.2. Buhler3. Haven4. Pretty Prairie—it is noted in the report that if the surrounding fuel loads gain intensity, then a problem could be created.5. Turon—it is noted that if the area of hardwood timber on the south end of town accumulates a large amount of dead trees or limbs, it could be a threat in years to come.6. Sylvia7. Abbyville8. Partridge9. Yoder10. WillowbrookModerate hazard rated communities:1. Medora2. Pony Acres community3. Caselton4. Langdon5. Plevna6. Nickerson7. ArlingtonHigh hazard rated communities:1. East of Kent Road, South of 4th street2. 4th street from Obee to Mayfield3. 30th street near Sand Dunes Drive4. Prairie Dunes area5. Woodlands community6. 30th and Inverness area7. Blue Spruce8. Rolling Hills9. Highlands Data from USDA-NRCS shows that Reno County is losing a battle against woody plant encroachment, causing high fire danger in additional areas over the intervening years. Friesen asked Weishaar to get together with the Forest Service to try to get an updated map as they prepare to set policy. It was also suggested that the county could hire an outside person to educate the public about the risk associated with their home. Friesen was in support of that idea."We need an outside party to do that," Friesen said. "If you can get with stakeholders to bring that back to us, there would be interest in considering approval of a classification of high risk properties in the county."There was also consensus to edit the county's 2017 burn resolution."It sounded like we had consensus on adding some teeth to some of the individuals that are not acting in good faith on fire management issues," Friesen said. An example given in the supporting documents was a situation on 56th and Plum where the fire department responded to a controlled burn that was out of control. The homeowner was told not to burn unless she got more people. As soon as the fire department left, the homeowner asked the neighbor to help her. The fire got away again and the fire department was called. The homeowner did not violate the resolution because the fire department does not have the authority under the 2017 resolution to tell someone not to burn, even if their controlled burn has already been out of control once that day.

Reno Co. Commission: Fire mitigation corrections will be multifaceted

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven USD 312 School District will host its annual Kindergarten Roundup on Thursday, April 28, and Friday, April 29, at Haven Grade School.

There will be two sessions each day running from 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. and in the afternoon from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.

The two hours will include screenings, activities and snacks. Reservations are needed and can be made by calling 620-465-2501 or by going online to <a href="http://www.havenschools.com">www.havenschools.com</a>.

The district asks to please let the office know if your student has any food allergies at the time of registration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591132145254.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven USD 312 School District will host its annual Kindergarten Roundup on Thursday, April 28, and Friday, April 29, at Haven Grade School.There will be two sessions each day running from 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. and in the afternoon from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.The two hours will include screenings, activities and snacks. Reservations are needed and can be made by calling 620-465-2501 or by going online to <a href="http://www.havenschools.com">www.havenschools.com</a>.The district asks to please let the office know if your student has any food allergies at the time of registration.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Haven USD 312 to hold Kindergarten Roundup next month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Two pairs of Hutchinson High School students will be traveling to Atlanta, GA for the International Career Development Conference after placing at the State competition at the beginning of March.

Hutchinson High School students, Dalton Estes, Riley Lusk, Liliana Wilson and Karcin Regier, have qualified for the next round of competition for the 2022 DECA Career Development Conference. Two other HHS teams placed at the State competition, including Maddy Yantes and Abbie Davenport who placed fourth in the Community Giving Project category, and Kortland Brunton and Kelcie Shuff who placed fifth in the Community Awareness Project category.&nbsp;

DECA is an international leadership and entrepreneurship club that prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. The Sweet Treat inside Hutchinson Career &amp; Technical Education Academy is run by DECA students as a way to practice entrepreneurship, as well as raise funds for students to compete at competitions like the Career Development Conference.

“The knowledge they gained from working on their projects is tremendous. It’s been so cool to see community members want to partner with our DECA chapter and help our students with their projects through reading papers and judging,” Clayton Evans, DECA coordinator for Hutchinson High School said.

Teammates Dalton Estes and Riley Lusk received first place in the Sales Project category, and based their project on The Sweet Treat. Estes and Lusk had to create a twenty-page paper and fifteen-minute presentation on their business plan for the coffee shop.

“It was very exciting to find out we won. Our whole DECA chapter came up to the school to watch the live Zoom announcements. When they called our names it was a sigh of relief because now we get to go to Internationals!” said Estes.

Liliana Wilson and Karcin Regier also qualified for the International Conference, winning second place in the Financial Literacy Project. Wilson and Regier based their project on the Salthawk Credit Union, a student branch of Heartland Credit Union inside Hutchinson High School. Similar to the other teams, they created a paper and presentation showing how the Salthawk Credit Union has impacted their school by improving students' financial literacy knowledge.

“We couldn’t stress enough throughout our project how important this was to us, and how important it is to express financial literacy to help people budget and save. It was pretty nerve-wracking waiting for the results, but now that we’ve placed we’re excited to get to experience the International competition,” said Regier.

The International Career Development Conference will take place on April 23-26, 2022 in Atlanta, GA.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647976558882.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Two pairs of Hutchinson High School students will be traveling to Atlanta, GA for the International Career Development Conference after placing at the State competition at the beginning of March.Hutchinson High School students, Dalton Estes, Riley Lusk, Liliana Wilson and Karcin Regier, have qualified for the next round of competition for the 2022 DECA Career Development Conference. Two other HHS teams placed at the State competition, including Maddy Yantes and Abbie Davenport who placed fourth in the Community Giving Project category, and Kortland Brunton and Kelcie Shuff who placed fifth in the Community Awareness Project category.&nbsp;DECA is an international leadership and entrepreneurship club that prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. The Sweet Treat inside Hutchinson Career &amp; Technical Education Academy is run by DECA students as a way to practice entrepreneurship, as well as raise funds for students to compete at competitions like the Career Development Conference.“The knowledge they gained from working on their projects is tremendous. It’s been so cool to see community members want to partner with our DECA chapter and help our students with their projects through reading papers and judging,” Clayton Evans, DECA coordinator for Hutchinson High School said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647976691945.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Teammates Dalton Estes and Riley Lusk received first place in the Sales Project category, and based their project on The Sweet Treat. Estes and Lusk had to create a twenty-page paper and fifteen-minute presentation on their business plan for the coffee shop.“It was very exciting to find out we won. Our whole DECA chapter came up to the school to watch the live Zoom announcements. When they called our names it was a sigh of relief because now we get to go to Internationals!” said Estes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647976706768.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Liliana Wilson and Karcin Regier also qualified for the International Conference, winning second place in the Financial Literacy Project. Wilson and Regier based their project on the Salthawk Credit Union, a student branch of Heartland Credit Union inside Hutchinson High School. Similar to the other teams, they created a paper and presentation showing how the Salthawk Credit Union has impacted their school by improving students' financial literacy knowledge.“We couldn’t stress enough throughout our project how important this was to us, and how important it is to express financial literacy to help people budget and save. It was pretty nerve-wracking waiting for the results, but now that we’ve placed we’re excited to get to experience the International competition,” said Regier.The International Career Development Conference will take place on April 23-26, 2022 in Atlanta, GA.

HHS students qualify for International DECA competition

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss believes that growth has to slow given all the economic headwinds on the horizon.

"We're looking at growth coming down," Goss said. "I don't see any way around that. Are we moving toward a recession? Not at this point. We're certainly seeing growth slow as interest rates rise, as supply chain disruptions continue to have an effect and other factors out there as well. There's too much uncertainty. Try buying an automobile right now, a new automobile right now, even a used automobile. Prices up dramatically and there's just no availability for automobiles. That's just one little signal."

Goss also is certain the federal reserve is going to increase rates, maybe fairly fast.

"I would expect that by the end of the year, interest rates on the short end will be about another one and a half percent," Goss said. "That will put the prime interest rate up to 5%. I can't imagine it being any lower than that. It could be even higher. The Fed has gotten behind the curve on this. They should have been raising rates last year. They weren't."

This would make getting a mortgage or car loan more expensive, but right now there are such supply problems in both areas that may not be enough to slow price increases.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620071466817.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss believes that growth has to slow given all the economic headwinds on the horizon."We're looking at growth coming down," Goss said. "I don't see any way around that. Are we moving toward a recession? Not at this point. We're certainly seeing growth slow as interest rates rise, as supply chain disruptions continue to have an effect and other factors out there as well. There's too much uncertainty. Try buying an automobile right now, a new automobile right now, even a used automobile. Prices up dramatically and there's just no availability for automobiles. That's just one little signal."Goss also is certain the federal reserve is going to increase rates, maybe fairly fast."I would expect that by the end of the year, interest rates on the short end will be about another one and a half percent," Goss said. "That will put the prime interest rate up to 5%. I can't imagine it being any lower than that. It could be even higher. The Fed has gotten behind the curve on this. They should have been raising rates last year. They weren't."This would make getting a mortgage or car loan more expensive, but right now there are such supply problems in both areas that may not be enough to slow price increases.

Goss: Growth has to slow, interest rates will go up significantly

McPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities and school district officials are investigating a middle school teacher that was employed at Canton-Galva for alleged child sex crimes.

On Thursday, authorities in Saline County arrested 59-year-old Barry Adam Fritz on requested charges of Aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to online jail records.

According to <a href="https://sites.google.com/a/usd419.org/cg_elem/canton-galva-elementary/faculty-staff">the USD 419 web site,</a> Fritz worked as the Canton-Galva elementary school physical education teacher.&nbsp;

On Monday, the school board suspended him with pay pending further investigation, according to school principal Jim Struber.

On November 24, a police officer was called to Salina Regional Health Center for the report of a sexual offense with a person under the age of 14, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus. It was reported that the incident, which included inappropriate sexual activity, occurred at a south Salina residence.

Between the time the incident was reported and the arrest, members of the Salina Police Department Detective Division were collecting information and evidence in the case, according to Hanus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647611683959.png" alt="Fritz-photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Fritz-photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>McPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities and school district officials are investigating a middle school teacher that was employed at Canton-Galva for alleged child sex crimes.On Thursday, authorities in Saline County arrested 59-year-old Barry Adam Fritz on requested charges of Aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to online jail records.According to <a href="https://sites.google.com/a/usd419.org/cg_elem/canton-galva-elementary/faculty-staff">the USD 419 web site,</a> Fritz worked as the Canton-Galva elementary school physical education teacher.&nbsp; On Monday, the school board suspended him with pay pending further investigation, according to school principal Jim Struber.On November 24, a police officer was called to Salina Regional Health Center for the report of a sexual offense with a person under the age of 14, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus. It was reported that the incident, which included inappropriate sexual activity, occurred at a south Salina residence.Between the time the incident was reported and the arrest, members of the Salina Police Department Detective Division were collecting information and evidence in the case, according to Hanus.

Middle school teacher suspended, accused of child sex crimes


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Commissioners approved on a 2-1 vote the decision to spend almost a million dollars to correct problems with the substrate on the courthouse dome, even if insurance doesn't cover the additional cost. Commission chair Daniel Friesen explained why he voted against the motion.

"I think we take some incentive off of resolving this when we approve it," Friesen said. "I think we also have no idea whether this bid is competitive. I think we're just taking the heat off by approving it."

Commissioner Ron Sellers moved to approve the change order because he wants to move forward with other work on the courthouse.

"The condition of the fifth floor is worse than bad," Sellers said. "That project needs to happen and it can't happen until this is done, with that being the reason, I'd make the motion that we approve the change order."

Commissioner Ron Hirst wants Harlan Depew with the county to really push Pishny Restoration Services on the timeline for this, which would be another four to six months.

"This should have been caught by either our engineer, their engineer, their architect, our architect," Hirst said. "It's something that's going to have to be done, regardless."

There is disagreement between the county's engineer and the engineer for the insurance company as to whether concrete can just be added on to what's there to get to the right thickness or if a new full thickness must be poured. A third independent engineer is coming to study the situation March 31 to determine whether and how much insurance would cover on the work. The cost of the change order is $928,440.80.

In the event that insurance denies the claim, funds from the CIP Reserve Fund will cover the change order. If the expense is paid by the county, it should qualify for a 40% reimbursement in the form of state income tax credits thru the Kansas State Historical Society.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647957899469.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Commissioners approved on a 2-1 vote the decision to spend almost a million dollars to correct problems with the substrate on the courthouse dome, even if insurance doesn't cover the additional cost. Commission chair Daniel Friesen explained why he voted against the motion."I think we take some incentive off of resolving this when we approve it," Friesen said. "I think we also have no idea whether this bid is competitive. I think we're just taking the heat off by approving it."Commissioner Ron Sellers moved to approve the change order because he wants to move forward with other work on the courthouse."The condition of the fifth floor is worse than bad," Sellers said. "That project needs to happen and it can't happen until this is done, with that being the reason, I'd make the motion that we approve the change order."Commissioner Ron Hirst wants Harlan Depew with the county to really push Pishny Restoration Services on the timeline for this, which would be another four to six months."This should have been caught by either our engineer, their engineer, their architect, our architect," Hirst said. "It's something that's going to have to be done, regardless."There is disagreement between the county's engineer and the engineer for the insurance company as to whether concrete can just be added on to what's there to get to the right thickness or if a new full thickness must be poured. A third independent engineer is coming to study the situation March 31 to determine whether and how much insurance would cover on the work. The cost of the change order is $928,440.80.In the event that insurance denies the claim, funds from the CIP Reserve Fund will cover the change order. If the expense is paid by the county, it should qualify for a 40% reimbursement in the form of state income tax credits thru the Kansas State Historical Society.

Reno County commissioners approve courthouse dome change order 2-1 Tuesday

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council came to an agreement that they will restrict access to the city’s brush dump site in the near future. City Manager Joe Turner says that out of town residents and commercial entities are using the dump site which is supposed to be limited to South Hutchinson residents. From now on, the dump site will be open during normal business hours and possibly one Saturday per month.&nbsp;

Also Monday night, the council approved the low bid from Foley Power Equipment for a new generator for one of the city’s water wells at a cost of $39,700 and approved the new contract with Hutchinson Home Plate Club for use and maintenance of the Lionette Ball Diamonds. The lease will be for three years at $5,000 per year.

The city also took time to go over their snow removal and snow ordinances for the city on Monday. No action was taken.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647961429446.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council came to an agreement that they will restrict access to the city’s brush dump site in the near future. City Manager Joe Turner says that out of town residents and commercial entities are using the dump site which is supposed to be limited to South Hutchinson residents. From now on, the dump site will be open during normal business hours and possibly one Saturday per month.&nbsp;Also Monday night, the council approved the low bid from Foley Power Equipment for a new generator for one of the city’s water wells at a cost of $39,700 and approved the new contract with Hutchinson Home Plate Club for use and maintenance of the Lionette Ball Diamonds. The lease will be for three years at $5,000 per year.The city also took time to go over their snow removal and snow ordinances for the city on Monday. No action was taken.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Hutchinson to limit use of brush drop off site


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The joint meeting between the Board of County Commissioners and the Hutchinson City Council Tuesday afternoon resulted in a lot of clearing of the air between the two and at the end of the meeting, county commissioners voted 2-1 to approve spending up to $440,000 or 50% of the cost of the fire improvements asked for by Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer at the City Council meeting on March 15.

Ron Hirst voted against the motion because of the overall cost to the county.

Beer asked to replace three brush trucks, purchase new personal protective gear and bring existing brush trucks up to current standards. Beer also asked for replacement for lost tools, hose and equipment from the recent fires. The total request comes to $880,000.

The City Council approved its half of the money in a special meeting Tuesday night.

"The ultimate goal is to run our entire wildland program off of the money we get from sending our guys out west," Beer said.

Jackson Swearer with the ARPA Task Force spoke in support of the overall idea that the fire department needs the equipment, but did note that it was not one of the ideas presented at any of the public meetings, so if there were another way to pay for it other than ARPA money, that would be preferable. 

City finance director Angela Richard couldn't come up with anywhere specific other than the ARPA money that they had $440,000 to spend.

Captain and IAFF union leader Troy Mueller thanked the council for their willingness to spend the money as soon as they knew there was a need.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646592084862.jpeg" alt="Beer Steve.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Beer Steve.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The joint meeting between the Board of County Commissioners and the Hutchinson City Council Tuesday afternoon resulted in a lot of clearing of the air between the two and at the end of the meeting, county commissioners voted 2-1 to approve spending up to $440,000 or 50% of the cost of the fire improvements asked for by Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer at the City Council meeting on March 15.Ron Hirst voted against the motion because of the overall cost to the county.Beer asked to replace three brush trucks, purchase new personal protective gear and bring existing brush trucks up to current standards. Beer also asked for replacement for lost tools, hose and equipment from the recent fires. The total request comes to $880,000.The City Council approved its half of the money in a special meeting Tuesday night."The ultimate goal is to run our entire wildland program off of the money we get from sending our guys out west," Beer said.Jackson Swearer with the ARPA Task Force spoke in support of the overall idea that the fire department needs the equipment, but did note that it was not one of the ideas presented at any of the public meetings, so if there were another way to pay for it other than ARPA money, that would be preferable. City finance director Angela Richard couldn't come up with anywhere specific other than the ARPA money that they had $440,000 to spend.Captain and IAFF union leader Troy Mueller thanked the council for their willingness to spend the money as soon as they knew there was a need.

Reno County commission agrees to pay half on fire needs, city council kicks in their half

WICHITA — The National Weather Service office in Wichita has issued a Wind Advisory until 7 p.m. Tuesday. 

North winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected in Saline, Rice, McPherson, Reno, Kingman, and Harper Counties.

Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647943741885.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA — The National Weather Service office in Wichita has issued a Wind Advisory until 7 p.m. Tuesday. North winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected in Saline, Rice, McPherson, Reno, Kingman, and Harper Counties.Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

Wind advisory until 7 p.m. Tuesday

MOUNT HOPE, Kan. — Motorists who use K-96 between Hutchinson and Wichita will see more road work this spring and summer. KDOT announced work will resume on the resurfacing project on K-96 in Sedgwick County.

The project involves a hot-mix-asphalt overlay and shoulder widening. Before the winter break, crews completed the Reno County portion of the project on K-14 and K-96. The remainder of the project is on eastbound K-96 from the Sedgwick/Reno county line east 15 miles to Maize Road. The work is expected to begin around April 4 and be completed around mid-May.

During the work, traffic will be restricted to one lane and motorists should expect to slow down for the work zone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647889195719.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MOUNT HOPE, Kan. — Motorists who use K-96 between Hutchinson and Wichita will see more road work this spring and summer. KDOT announced work will resume on the resurfacing project on K-96 in Sedgwick County.The project involves a hot-mix-asphalt overlay and shoulder widening. Before the winter break, crews completed the Reno County portion of the project on K-14 and K-96. The remainder of the project is on eastbound K-96 from the Sedgwick/Reno county line east 15 miles to Maize Road. The work is expected to begin around April 4 and be completed around mid-May.During the work, traffic will be restricted to one lane and motorists should expect to slow down for the work zone.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

K-96 work to start next month

BUHLER, Kan. — Each year, Buhler USD 313 conducts the Family Engagement Survey.

In the survey, the district asks for your feedback to measure how it is doing at involving families in the education of your children.

The district says they would appreciate it if parents of current USD 313 students would take the time to complete the 15-item survey.

The survey can be found at <a href="https://www.districttools.org/buhler2022?fbclid=IwAR3s57WMCHLy_6hd-ukBwEOUetAY1X1mgltQdJ5btWTOJc8shtDglsbK7vg">www.districttools.org/buhler2022</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647891288440.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Each year, Buhler USD 313 conducts the Family Engagement Survey.In the survey, the district asks for your feedback to measure how it is doing at involving families in the education of your children.The district says they would appreciate it if parents of current USD 313 students would take the time to complete the 15-item survey. The survey can be found at <a href="https://www.districttools.org/buhler2022?fbclid=IwAR3s57WMCHLy_6hd-ukBwEOUetAY1X1mgltQdJ5btWTOJc8shtDglsbK7vg">www.districttools.org/buhler2022</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Family Engagement Survey now available for USD 313 patrons

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— Hutchinson USD 308 will host the annual Kindergarten Countdown event next month. The event is scheduled for Thursday, April 28, from 6 to 7 p.m.

The district allows those attending kindergarten and their parents or guardians to see the school they will attend next year. Applications will also be available for students that would like to attend the Allen STEM Magnet School.

Students will be able to pre-enroll and meet the staff of each school. Parents or guardians are asked to bring a birth certificate, immunization record and physical form.

If you would like more information, contact the school the child will attend next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— Hutchinson USD 308 will host the annual Kindergarten Countdown event next month. The event is scheduled for Thursday, April 28, from 6 to 7 p.m.The district allows those attending kindergarten and their parents or guardians to see the school they will attend next year. Applications will also be available for students that would like to attend the Allen STEM Magnet School.Students will be able to pre-enroll and meet the staff of each school. Parents or guardians are asked to bring a birth certificate, immunization record and physical form.If you would like more information, contact the school the child will attend next year.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

USD 308 to host Kindergarten Countdown

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Solid Waste announced the landfill will exercise the right to turn away all customers of municipal solid waste, construction/demolition waste material and any other potentially airborne solid wastes when high-wind days and warnings are posted in advance.&nbsp;

The refusal of debris could occur when there is a sustained wind speed above 45 miles per hour, gusts above 50-55 miles per hour or before a forecasted wind of sustained 45 miles per hour or above arrives.

When the decision to close operations to the public is made, the gate will be closed at the discretion of the landfill. Customers currently weighed-in will be allowed to dump, but all others will be turned away and asked to leave the property.

Notifications of closure will be made immediately to affected customers, those haulers using the landfill on a regular basis through the media, by phone, and on social media sites within two hours of the decision/closing the gates.&nbsp;

Landfill staff will work to cover the open disposal area as well as possible to keep trash and other debris from becoming airborne.

Reopening of the landfill will be scheduled when the high winds have ended. If the landfill remains closed through the end of the business day, efforts will be made to open the landfill one half hour early the next business morning.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639685173856.jpeg" alt="Debris sits along the fence line at the Reno County Landfill following a recent wind storm. The landfill will now close when extreme wind conditions are present." />
 <figcaption>Debris sits along the fence line at the Reno County Landfill following a recent wind storm. The landfill will now close when extreme wind conditions are present.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Solid Waste announced the landfill will exercise the right to turn away all customers of municipal solid waste, construction/demolition waste material and any other potentially airborne solid wastes when high-wind days and warnings are posted in advance.&nbsp;The refusal of debris could occur when there is a sustained wind speed above 45 miles per hour, gusts above 50-55 miles per hour or before a forecasted wind of sustained 45 miles per hour or above arrives.When the decision to close operations to the public is made, the gate will be closed at the discretion of the landfill. Customers currently weighed-in will be allowed to dump, but all others will be turned away and asked to leave the property.Notifications of closure will be made immediately to affected customers, those haulers using the landfill on a regular basis through the media, by phone, and on social media sites within two hours of the decision/closing the gates.&nbsp;Landfill staff will work to cover the open disposal area as well as possible to keep trash and other debris from becoming airborne.Reopening of the landfill will be scheduled when the high winds have ended. If the landfill remains closed through the end of the business day, efforts will be made to open the landfill one half hour early the next business morning.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Landfill to close in high-wind situations

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Central Kansas Veterans Community Partnership is hosting a dinner event on Saturday to honor Vietnam vets.

"All Vietnam veterans are free," said Preston Pelkey with CKVCP. "We'd like them there at 4 p.m. to get set up. Everybody else it's a $12 fried chicken dinner buffet. It's as American as they come. We'd like a lot of people there. It's going to be a good time. It's going to be very humbling and hopefully for some people it's going to give them an understanding of what some of these people endured."

The event will include pictures from abroad, an honor guard, a video and special speaker, along with a special ceremony. Service is something to be proud of, but it does take its toll.

"There's a lot of mental issues that come with that," Pelkey said. "Unfortunately, there's a lot of scars that people never see and a lot of things you have to live with that makes it really, really tough. The neat thing about the VFW and doing things like this is we're that one place on earth that all those people can come, because we all understand. We've all put those boots on."

National Vietnam War Veterans Day is March 29, the annual event is held on the nearest Saturday. The event is from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the VFW Post 1361 at 328 North Van Buren.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647879353008.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Central Kansas Veterans Community Partnership is hosting a dinner event on Saturday to honor Vietnam vets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647879393287.jpeg" alt="VetsDinner.JPG" />
 <figcaption>VetsDinner.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>"All Vietnam veterans are free," said Preston Pelkey with CKVCP. "We'd like them there at 4 p.m. to get set up. Everybody else it's a $12 fried chicken dinner buffet. It's as American as they come. We'd like a lot of people there. It's going to be a good time. It's going to be very humbling and hopefully for some people it's going to give them an understanding of what some of these people endured."The event will include pictures from abroad, an honor guard, a video and special speaker, along with a special ceremony. Service is something to be proud of, but it does take its toll."There's a lot of mental issues that come with that," Pelkey said. "Unfortunately, there's a lot of scars that people never see and a lot of things you have to live with that makes it really, really tough. The neat thing about the VFW and doing things like this is we're that one place on earth that all those people can come, because we all understand. We've all put those boots on."National Vietnam War Veterans Day is March 29, the annual event is held on the nearest Saturday. The event is from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the VFW Post 1361 at 328 North Van Buren.

Special dinner Saturday at VFW

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested on suspicion of rape following an incident March 8.

Jacob Rodriguez is jailed on a bond of $50,000. According to the arrest report, Rodriguez forced himself upon a known acquaintance despite the victims repeated requests to stop.&nbsp;

No other details were released. Rodriguez was ordered to have no contact with the victim and will be back in court for the formal reading of charges March 28.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642278379680.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested on suspicion of rape following an incident March 8.Jacob Rodriguez is jailed on a bond of $50,000. According to the arrest report, Rodriguez forced himself upon a known acquaintance despite the victims repeated requests to stop.&nbsp;No other details were released. Rodriguez was ordered to have no contact with the victim and will be back in court for the formal reading of charges March 28.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

Man arrested on suspicion of rape 

NICKERSON, Kan. — Nickerson High School has a new athletic director. USD 309 Superintendent Curtis Nightingale announced that Alex Nuss will become the new AD.&nbsp;

Nuss will also serve as the assistant principal. Nuss has spent the past two years as the AD at Ellinwood High School and has degrees from both Kansas State and Emporia State.&nbsp;

The district also announced the hiring of Craig Gantenbein as the Nickerson Elementary School Principal. Gantenbein has more than 20-years of administrative experience and has college degrees from Kansas Wesleyan and Emporia State.

Also Melissa Beede has been named the new Assistant Principal at South Hutchinson Elementary School. Beede has more than 20 years of teaching experience and has degrees from Emporia State, Bethany College and the University of Kansas.

NICKERSON, Kan. — Nickerson High School has a new athletic director. USD 309 Superintendent Curtis Nightingale announced that Alex Nuss will become the new AD.&nbsp;Nuss will also serve as the assistant principal. Nuss has spent the past two years as the AD at Ellinwood High School and has degrees from both Kansas State and Emporia State.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647877121060.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The district also announced the hiring of Craig Gantenbein as the Nickerson Elementary School Principal. Gantenbein has more than 20-years of administrative experience and has college degrees from Kansas Wesleyan and Emporia State.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647877205426.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Also Melissa Beede has been named the new Assistant Principal at South Hutchinson Elementary School. Beede has more than 20 years of teaching experience and has degrees from Emporia State, Bethany College and the University of Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647877229738.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

USD 309 announces new hires

McPHERSON – Part of South Maxwell Street in McPherson is closed Monday, March 21, near the entrance to Turkey Creek Development. 

The City of McPherson Public Works Department is repairing a sink hole that developed during the weekend. The road will remain closed until the necessary repairs can be completed.&nbsp;

Barricades remain in place around the approximately 6x6x8-feet deep hole. Residents are asked to avoid the area, and do not move any barricades for any reason. The City will notify the public once the road is re-opened.&nbsp;

Questions or concerns can be directed to the Public Works Department at 620-245-2535 or email Director Jeff Woodward at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jeffw@mcpcity.com">jeffw@mcpcity.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647876385737.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>McPHERSON – Part of South Maxwell Street in McPherson is closed Monday, March 21, near the entrance to Turkey Creek Development. The City of McPherson Public Works Department is repairing a sink hole that developed during the weekend. The road will remain closed until the necessary repairs can be completed.&nbsp;Barricades remain in place around the approximately 6x6x8-feet deep hole. Residents are asked to avoid the area, and do not move any barricades for any reason. The City will notify the public once the road is re-opened.&nbsp;Questions or concerns can be directed to the Public Works Department at 620-245-2535 or email Director Jeff Woodward at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jeffw@mcpcity.com">jeffw@mcpcity.com</a>.&nbsp;

Sinkhole causes street closure in McPherson

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann is hosting the Ranking Member from the House Agriculture Committee Glenn 'GT' Thompson this week in the Big First. 

The visit is in preparation for the writing of the 2023 Farm Bill. It's also a concern to both members that Ukraine's production capability for agriculture will likely be hampered by the conflict going on there.

"Ukraine has around 40 million people, but they feed around 400 million people," Mann said. "When you've got almost a third of the wheat in the world between Ukraine and Russia, the big, big question becomes what does production look like for them? How does production level dip? The concern is that would destabilize a lot of countries that they feed, a lot of those countries in the Middle East, Egypt and north Africa. The ripple effect, we don't know yet."

Supporting Ukraine is key, because it's planting time over there.

"American agricultural producers are going to have to step up and produce more," Mann said. "It's something we've done for a long time, stepping up when need be and I'm excited to see it."

Congressman Thompson and Congressman Mann are both keenly aware of the need for food security, which is why they will be visiting the under construction National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan later this week.

"It's immense," Thompson said. "Without food security, you don't have national security, you certainly don't have economic security, as well."

Mann notes that it's still going to be awhile until the handoff happens to the Manhattan facility.

"It should start to be operational in the next year or so," Mann said. "Construction's got to be completed, then it has to be commissioned and then it has to be tested, then a move has to happen. For the final move to occur, we're still a ways away from that, but we're closing in on it and it's going to be very exciting for the state."

The United States currently does not have a laboratory facility with maximum biocontainment (BSL-4) space to study high-consequence zoonotic diseases affecting large livestock. The NBAF will be the first laboratory facility in the U.S. to provide BSL-4 laboratories capable of housing cattle and other large livestock. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 75 percent of new and emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic diseases which may be transmitted from animals to humans.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628092876425.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann is hosting the Ranking Member from the House Agriculture Committee Glenn 'GT' Thompson this week in the Big First. The visit is in preparation for the writing of the 2023 Farm Bill. It's also a concern to both members that Ukraine's production capability for agriculture will likely be hampered by the conflict going on there."Ukraine has around 40 million people, but they feed around 400 million people," Mann said. "When you've got almost a third of the wheat in the world between Ukraine and Russia, the big, big question becomes what does production look like for them? How does production level dip? The concern is that would destabilize a lot of countries that they feed, a lot of those countries in the Middle East, Egypt and north Africa. The ripple effect, we don't know yet."Supporting Ukraine is key, because it's planting time over there."American agricultural producers are going to have to step up and produce more," Mann said. "It's something we've done for a long time, stepping up when need be and I'm excited to see it."Congressman Thompson and Congressman Mann are both keenly aware of the need for food security, which is why they will be visiting the under construction National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan later this week."It's immense," Thompson said. "Without food security, you don't have national security, you certainly don't have economic security, as well."Mann notes that it's still going to be awhile until the handoff happens to the Manhattan facility."It should start to be operational in the next year or so," Mann said. "Construction's got to be completed, then it has to be commissioned and then it has to be tested, then a move has to happen. For the final move to occur, we're still a ways away from that, but we're closing in on it and it's going to be very exciting for the state."The United States currently does not have a laboratory facility with maximum biocontainment (BSL-4) space to study high-consequence zoonotic diseases affecting large livestock. The NBAF will be the first laboratory facility in the U.S. to provide BSL-4 laboratories capable of housing cattle and other large livestock. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 75 percent of new and emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic diseases which may be transmitted from animals to humans.