HUTCHINSON, KS – Dillons is trying to help its customers save on fuel while having fun this spring. Now through March 22, 2022, customers can earn 4x fuel points on most gift cards purchased when they download the digital coupon available in store, on the Dillons app, or at <a href="https://www.dillons.com/">www.dillons.com</a>. With the promotional event, a $25 gift card accumulates 100 fuel points for instant savings at the pump.

Dillons’ customers enjoy savings of 3¢ off per gallon every day when they scan their Plus Card at the pump, or save 10 cents off per gallon, up to $1 off per gallon, when they participate in Dillons’ fuel rewards program. 

 With this program, 1 fuel point is earned for every $1 spent on qualifying purchases and normally double points on participating gift cards, which is now four times through the 22nd. 

Customers can then receive discounts automatically, when scanning their Plus Card at the pump. For full details about Dillons Fuel rewards, please visit <a href="http://dillons.com/fuel">dillons.com/fuel</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619811521513.jpeg" alt="Fuel Center Ribbon-Dillons" />
 <figcaption>Fuel Center Ribbon-Dillons</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, KS – Dillons is trying to help its customers save on fuel while having fun this spring. Now through March 22, 2022, customers can earn 4x fuel points on most gift cards purchased when they download the digital coupon available in store, on the Dillons app, or at <a href="https://www.dillons.com/">www.dillons.com</a>. With the promotional event, a $25 gift card accumulates 100 fuel points for instant savings at the pump.Dillons’ customers enjoy savings of 3¢ off per gallon every day when they scan their Plus Card at the pump, or save 10 cents off per gallon, up to $1 off per gallon, when they participate in Dillons’ fuel rewards program. With this program, 1 fuel point is earned for every $1 spent on qualifying purchases and normally double points on participating gift cards, which is now four times through the 22nd. Customers can then receive discounts automatically, when scanning their Plus Card at the pump. For full details about Dillons Fuel rewards, please visit <a href="http://dillons.com/fuel">dillons.com/fuel</a>.

Gift cards give extra Dillons fuel points through March 22

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Progress is continuing in the process of hiring a Reno County fire administrator.

"The fire administrator position closed early in February," said Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar. "We actually completed interviews on it the past two Fridays. We should be hiring that position very soon."

Weishaar was clear this isn't about replacing the fire district chiefs. It's about helping them.

"Inside of Reno County, we have eight rural fire districts," Weishaar said. "Currently, they kind of run individually. The goal of this person is to be a fire professional and try to get each one of these eight districts on the same sheet of music. Essentially, running some of the same standard operating procedures, ordering the same equipment, the same personal protective gear, etc."

This has been in the works since the study of the rural fire districts came back last year. There are a lot of local candidates to choose from.

"We had nine total applicants for the position," Weishaar said. "Of those, I believe about half of them were local. The only interviews we conducted were of local candidates."

It's going to be vital that the hire is very willing to work together with the district chiefs and their volunteers.

"This person has to have the right personality, where they are working with these fire chiefs as a peer," Weishaar said. "That way, they can start building those teams and they can encourage training, just making sure everyone's pulling in the same direction."

A specific start date for the hire will not be announced until the choice is approved by the county commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585131092050.png" alt="Reno County Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Progress is continuing in the process of hiring a Reno County fire administrator."The fire administrator position closed early in February," said Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar. "We actually completed interviews on it the past two Fridays. We should be hiring that position very soon."Weishaar was clear this isn't about replacing the fire district chiefs. It's about helping them."Inside of Reno County, we have eight rural fire districts," Weishaar said. "Currently, they kind of run individually. The goal of this person is to be a fire professional and try to get each one of these eight districts on the same sheet of music. Essentially, running some of the same standard operating procedures, ordering the same equipment, the same personal protective gear, etc."This has been in the works since the study of the rural fire districts came back last year. There are a lot of local candidates to choose from."We had nine total applicants for the position," Weishaar said. "Of those, I believe about half of them were local. The only interviews we conducted were of local candidates."It's going to be vital that the hire is very willing to work together with the district chiefs and their volunteers."This person has to have the right personality, where they are working with these fire chiefs as a peer," Weishaar said. "That way, they can start building those teams and they can encourage training, just making sure everyone's pulling in the same direction."A specific start date for the hire will not be announced until the choice is approved by the county commission.

Weishaar: Fire administrator interviews have been conducted

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp; &nbsp;The U.S. Department of Labor is continuing to help those in south central Kansas to recover from the loss of jobs after the grounding of the Boeing 737 in 2020. The department announced the award of $855,377 in National Dislocated Worker Grant funding to the Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas Inc. to continue to provide workforce training services to dislocated aviation industry workers in Butler, Cowley, Harper, Kingman, Sedgwick and Sumner counties.

Supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, Dislocated Worker Grants provide assistance to a state or local board to fund direct services and assistance in areas experiencing a major economic dislocation event, such as layoffs from companies in the same industry that result in workforce needs exceeding available resources. 

Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, this supplemental award is being made available to support retraining and skills development for affected workers. In May 2020, the department announced the award of Dislocated Worker Grant funds of $1,921,4222 to provide reemployment services in response to layoffs at Spirit AeroSystems and 25 other aviation industry companies that produce component parts for the Boeing 737. The supplemental award announced today brings the total project funds awarded to $2,776,799. More than 4,000 aviation industry layoffs have occurred since the first award was announced.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615920467817.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp; &nbsp;The U.S. Department of Labor is continuing to help those in south central Kansas to recover from the loss of jobs after the grounding of the Boeing 737 in 2020. The department announced the award of $855,377 in National Dislocated Worker Grant funding to the Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas Inc. to continue to provide workforce training services to dislocated aviation industry workers in Butler, Cowley, Harper, Kingman, Sedgwick and Sumner counties.Supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, Dislocated Worker Grants provide assistance to a state or local board to fund direct services and assistance in areas experiencing a major economic dislocation event, such as layoffs from companies in the same industry that result in workforce needs exceeding available resources. Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, this supplemental award is being made available to support retraining and skills development for affected workers. In May 2020, the department announced the award of Dislocated Worker Grant funds of $1,921,4222 to provide reemployment services in response to layoffs at Spirit AeroSystems and 25 other aviation industry companies that produce component parts for the Boeing 737. The supplemental award announced today brings the total project funds awarded to $2,776,799. More than 4,000 aviation industry layoffs have occurred since the first award was announced.

Federal government providing additional job training funding for aviation workers

NICKERSON, Kan.— When the City of Nickerson decided not to repair its&nbsp; weather warning system they began to push city residents to subscribe to the county’s Everbridge warning system.&nbsp;

The county system uses personal devices to issue weather warnings. City Clerk April Beshears says that they sent out a test message throughout the system during the simulated tornado drill last week. The test went to 256 subscribers. Beshears says the city also took in new subscribers following the test.&nbsp;

The Everbridge system is available to all county residents and applications for the system can be done online at <a href="http://renogov.org">renogov.org</a>.

<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/2020/8/1597851283659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan.— When the City of Nickerson decided not to repair its&nbsp; weather warning system they began to push city residents to subscribe to the county’s Everbridge warning system.&nbsp;The county system uses personal devices to issue weather warnings. City Clerk April Beshears says that they sent out a test message throughout the system during the simulated tornado drill last week. The test went to 256 subscribers. Beshears says the city also took in new subscribers following the test.&nbsp;The Everbridge system is available to all county residents and applications for the system can be done online at <a href="http://renogov.org">renogov.org</a>.<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.

Nickerson residents using the Everbridge alert system

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced that more than $6 million in funds from the Kansas High Risk Rural Roads (HRRR) Program will go to 10 rural counties to improve the safety and efficiency of roads and local roadways, including here in Reno County.

The Reno County project is to upgrade signing on all major and minor collectors west of K-14. $561,000 is coming from the federally funded state/local partnership initiative designed to improve safety on rural roads.

This year’s 10 HRRR projects were selected from more than 40 applications seeking $21 million in federal funds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643373407439.png" alt="kdot logo.png" />
 <figcaption>kdot logo.png</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced that more than $6 million in funds from the Kansas High Risk Rural Roads (HRRR) Program will go to 10 rural counties to improve the safety and efficiency of roads and local roadways, including here in Reno County.The Reno County project is to upgrade signing on all major and minor collectors west of K-14. $561,000 is coming from the federally funded state/local partnership initiative designed to improve safety on rural roads.This year’s 10 HRRR projects were selected from more than 40 applications seeking $21 million in federal funds.

Reno County wins grant for signage for rural roads

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The tradition of the American Legion Scholarship Pancake Breakfast is back on Thursday.

"It's six bucks at the door," said Mac McGaughey with the American Legion. "We're just really, really delighted to be able to get back into it and supply the people here a good pancake breakfast and raise funds for our kids here."

Lyle Rishel Post 68 provides five $750 scholarships to Kansas students who attend HutchCC from the event's proceeds.

"The kitchen will be wall to wall people," McGaughey said. "We'll have guys in the back mixing and tending to the pancake batter and there's like four or five guys on the two big grills flipping pancakes and then there's a whole team of people serving out on the floor."

The HutchCC Endowment Association is in charge of the scholarship distribution.

"We're just tickled to death that we can do it the good old fashioned way this year and have the dine in, since we had restrictions two years in a row that stopped us from doing that."

The breakfast is from 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 730 West 4th in Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618495325882.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The tradition of the American Legion Scholarship Pancake Breakfast is back on Thursday."It's six bucks at the door," said Mac McGaughey with the American Legion. "We're just really, really delighted to be able to get back into it and supply the people here a good pancake breakfast and raise funds for our kids here."Lyle Rishel Post 68 provides five $750 scholarships to Kansas students who attend HutchCC from the event's proceeds."The kitchen will be wall to wall people," McGaughey said. "We'll have guys in the back mixing and tending to the pancake batter and there's like four or five guys on the two big grills flipping pancakes and then there's a whole team of people serving out on the floor."The HutchCC Endowment Association is in charge of the scholarship distribution."We're just tickled to death that we can do it the good old fashioned way this year and have the dine in, since we had restrictions two years in a row that stopped us from doing that."The breakfast is from 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 730 West 4th in Hutchinson.

Legion scholarship pancake breakfast Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer will go before the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday asking them to spend COVID relief funds to help purchase equipment he feels is necessary to mitigate the wildfire problem in the county.

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

Beer says he has talked with City Finance Director Angela Richard and ARPA funds can be used for this type of purchase. Beer says in light of the current climate situation he will also request that the bids go out as soon as possible so it is ready for next year's wildfire season.&nbsp;

The matter goes before the city council during their Tuesday meeting at 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.

<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/2022/3/1646592084862.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer will go before the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday asking them to spend COVID relief funds to help purchase equipment he feels is necessary to mitigate the wildfire problem in the county.Beer wants to replace three brush trucks, purchase new personal protective gear and bring existing brush trucks up to current standards. Beer also wants to replace lost tools, hose and equipment from the recent fires. The total request comes to $880,000.Beer says he has talked with City Finance Director Angela Richard and ARPA funds can be used for this type of purchase. Beer says in light of the current climate situation he will also request that the bids go out as soon as possible so it is ready for next year's wildfire season.&nbsp;The matter goes before the city council during their Tuesday meeting at 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.<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;

Beer wants to use ARPA funds to upgrade wildfire equipment

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Country star Parker McCollum is coming to the Nex-Tech Grandstand at the Kansas State Fair on September 10, 2022, with up-and-coming country artist Priscilla Block opening.

McCollum is known for combining his artistic, authentic songwriting ability with a true performer’s presence on stage. He is Academy of Country Music’s 2022 New Male Artist of the Year. Some of his top hits include: (No. 1 Billboard Hit) Pretty Heart, To Be Loved By You, and Hell of a Year. 

"We’re thrilled to bring Parker McCollum to the Kansas State Fair. His songwriting abilities and soulful voice resonates so well with country audiences, and we hope to fill the stands with this concert,” said Bryan Schulz, Kansas State Fair General Manager.

Opening for McCollum, Block is a 2022 Music Row Country Breakout Artist of the Year and was a 2022 Academy of Country Music’s New Female Artist of the Year nominee. Her streaming has topped 250 million and rising. Some of Block’s songs include her first certified gold single, Just About Over You, Wish You Were the Whiskey, and her newest release, My Bar.

Tickets go on sale at 8 a.m. Friday, March 18 at <a href="http://KansasStateFair.com">KansasStateFair.com</a>. Anyone signed up for Kansas State Fair emails can get access to tickets with a presale code, starting 8 a.m. on Thursday, March 17. Sign up for emails at <a href="https://www.kansasstatefair.com/p/general-information/email-updates">https://www.kansasstatefair.com/p/general-information/email-updates.</a>

Tickets are $70/$60/$30. The show will be Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022 at 7:30 p.m.

New in 2022: each grandstand ticket will also include a gate admission scan. Ticket will be valid on date of event only. Some exclusions apply. Visit KansasStateFair.com to learn more.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit kansasstatefair.com or call (620) 669-3618. 

2022 Kansas State Fair Nex-Tech Grandstand Acts (so far!):

Friday, Sept. 9 – Rock the Fair: Battle of the Bands finals

Saturday, Sept. 10 – Parker McCollum with Priscilla Block

The Nex-Tech Grandstand is sponsored by Nex-Tech Wireless and Nex-Tech.

The 2022 Kansas State Fair will be September 9-18 in Hutchinson, Kansas. Proudly the largest gathering of Kansans each year, the Fair celebrates all the things beloved about the state: agriculture, education, entertainment, and more. For more information, and to learn about 2022 Fair offerings, visit <a href="http://KansasStateFair.com">KansasStateFair.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647089433498.jpeg" alt="ParkerMcCollum-Courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>ParkerMcCollum-Courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Country star Parker McCollum is coming to the Nex-Tech Grandstand at the Kansas State Fair on September 10, 2022, with up-and-coming country artist Priscilla Block opening.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647089112085.jpeg" alt="ParkerMcCollum-Courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>ParkerMcCollum-Courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>McCollum is known for combining his artistic, authentic songwriting ability with a true performer’s presence on stage. He is Academy of Country Music’s 2022 New Male Artist of the Year. Some of his top hits include: (No. 1 Billboard Hit) Pretty Heart, To Be Loved By You, and Hell of a Year. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647089420386.jpeg" alt="ParkerMcCollum-Courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>ParkerMcCollum-Courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>"We’re thrilled to bring Parker McCollum to the Kansas State Fair. His songwriting abilities and soulful voice resonates so well with country audiences, and we hope to fill the stands with this concert,” said Bryan Schulz, Kansas State Fair General Manager.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647089581297.jpeg" alt="Priscilla Block-Courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>Priscilla Block-Courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>Opening for McCollum, Block is a 2022 Music Row Country Breakout Artist of the Year and was a 2022 Academy of Country Music’s New Female Artist of the Year nominee. Her streaming has topped 250 million and rising. Some of Block’s songs include her first certified gold single, Just About Over You, Wish You Were the Whiskey, and her newest release, My Bar.Tickets go on sale at 8 a.m. Friday, March 18 at <a href="http://KansasStateFair.com">KansasStateFair.com</a>. Anyone signed up for Kansas State Fair emails can get access to tickets with a presale code, starting 8 a.m. on Thursday, March 17. Sign up for emails at <a href="https://www.kansasstatefair.com/p/general-information/email-updates">https://www.kansasstatefair.com/p/general-information/email-updates.</a>Tickets are $70/$60/$30. The show will be Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022 at 7:30 p.m.New in 2022: each grandstand ticket will also include a gate admission scan. Ticket will be valid on date of event only. Some exclusions apply. Visit KansasStateFair.com to learn more.To purchase tickets or for more information, visit kansasstatefair.com or call (620) 669-3618. 2022 Kansas State Fair Nex-Tech Grandstand Acts (so far!):Friday, Sept. 9 – Rock the Fair: Battle of the Bands finalsSaturday, Sept. 10 – Parker McCollum with Priscilla BlockThe Nex-Tech Grandstand is sponsored by Nex-Tech Wireless and Nex-Tech.The 2022 Kansas State Fair will be September 9-18 in Hutchinson, Kansas. Proudly the largest gathering of Kansans each year, the Fair celebrates all the things beloved about the state: agriculture, education, entertainment, and more. For more information, and to learn about 2022 Fair offerings, visit <a href="http://KansasStateFair.com">KansasStateFair.com</a>.

Chart Topper Parker McCollum Headlines Kansas State Fair Sept. 10


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Another Hutchinson neighborhood will get its official proclamation on Tuesday. 

The proclamation for the Midtown Neighborhood, which is between 11th and 17th and between Main and Monroe, is on Tuesday's City Council agenda. The proclamation was decided on this past August in a neighborhood meeting. 

The Midtown Neighborhood is part of the Hutchinson Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative, a collaborative approach to improve the marketability of area neighborhoods, making them an attractive place residents and newcomers choose to live for an enhanced quality of life.

The Hutchinson City Council meeting is at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Another Hutchinson neighborhood will get its official proclamation on Tuesday. The proclamation for the Midtown Neighborhood, which is between 11th and 17th and between Main and Monroe, is on Tuesday's City Council agenda. The proclamation was decided on this past August in a neighborhood meeting. The Midtown Neighborhood is part of the Hutchinson Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative, a collaborative approach to improve the marketability of area neighborhoods, making them an attractive place residents and newcomers choose to live for an enhanced quality of life.The Hutchinson City Council meeting is at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

Midtown Neighborhood to get official proclamation Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Here's the schedule of games at the Sports Arena for the first day of the NJCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Monday.

4:30 p.m. Trinidad State vs. Northwest Florida State

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647256499184.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Here's the schedule of games at the Sports Arena for the first day of the NJCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Monday.10 a.m. Pearl River vs. Moberly AreaNoon Roane State vs. Shelton State2 p.m. Lee vs. Snow4:30 p.m. Trinidad State vs. Northwest Florida State6:30 p.m. Southern Idaho vs. Harcum8:30 p.m. Hutchinson vs. Connors State

NJCAA Tournament game schedule for Monday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
There are those who argue that between funding for KPERS and the incentives promised to a mystery company in the APEX bill in the Kansas Legislature, that tax relief, even reducing the food sales tax, may not be affordable. Democrat Rep. Jason Probst disagrees.

"In my view, it can still absolutely happen," Probst said. "We have a good, healthy budget. We'll see, in April, additional revenue numbers come in, I think all indications are that those will be strong. We're sitting at close to $3 billion in excess revenue. The APEX issue hasn't been decided. From what I can gather, they are down there courting Oklahoma, trying to get a sweeter deal out of them."

It's not as if legislators can't make the decision on how to reprioritize if they want to, that's their function.

"If they have the will to do something, they can find a way," Probst said. "We've cut taxes before on the upper income brackets and corporations. We've done that without too much concern for the future of the budget. I think we can do that on the other end of the spectrum and provide some relief for food sales tax."

Everyone eats, which makes taxing food or not one of the biggest ways to have an effect on all pocketbooks.

"Food sales tax is something that hits every single person in the state," Probst said. "It's very broad based. I think it's been something we've talked about for a long time, but we haven't done it. I think, when we have this sort of flexibility in our budget, we owe it to people to do it. I think there's a conversation about where to do that, but we've tried the income tax thing on the upper brackets before. That didn't yield the results that we thought it would."

The concern, as always, is politics. Republicans may not want to give Gov. Laura Kelly the issue to potentially run on in the fall, even though Republican Derek Schmidt, here expected challenger, also supports the idea.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600960659626.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
There are those who argue that between funding for KPERS and the incentives promised to a mystery company in the APEX bill in the Kansas Legislature, that tax relief, even reducing the food sales tax, may not be affordable. Democrat Rep. Jason Probst disagrees."In my view, it can still absolutely happen," Probst said. "We have a good, healthy budget. We'll see, in April, additional revenue numbers come in, I think all indications are that those will be strong. We're sitting at close to $3 billion in excess revenue. The APEX issue hasn't been decided. From what I can gather, they are down there courting Oklahoma, trying to get a sweeter deal out of them."It's not as if legislators can't make the decision on how to reprioritize if they want to, that's their function."If they have the will to do something, they can find a way," Probst said. "We've cut taxes before on the upper income brackets and corporations. We've done that without too much concern for the future of the budget. I think we can do that on the other end of the spectrum and provide some relief for food sales tax."Everyone eats, which makes taxing food or not one of the biggest ways to have an effect on all pocketbooks."Food sales tax is something that hits every single person in the state," Probst said. "It's very broad based. I think it's been something we've talked about for a long time, but we haven't done it. I think, when we have this sort of flexibility in our budget, we owe it to people to do it. I think there's a conversation about where to do that, but we've tried the income tax thing on the upper brackets before. That didn't yield the results that we thought it would."The concern, as always, is politics. Republicans may not want to give Gov. Laura Kelly the issue to potentially run on in the fall, even though Republican Derek Schmidt, here expected challenger, also supports the idea.

Probst: We can still cut food sales tax

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Feeling fatigued following spring forward on Sunday? Don't let it cause an accident.

The darker morning commute that we'll see starting Sunday and into Monday means you should be aware, especially around schools," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "In the darker drives, you may not see a school kid walking and that could cause a dangerous situation."

The change also puts the sun in a different place in the sky in the afternoon, as well.

"You may be having bright sun in your eyes on your way home from work," Steward said. "It's an awareness thing. Prioritize sleep. Try to get a little bit of extra sleep over the next few days. Travel at times of the day when you are normally awake if possible. Look at things that you take that may cause drowsiness or other impairment."

Slow down and stay alert and if it is darker than usual, be sure to use your headlights and if your vehicle has daytime running lights, be sure those are activated, as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647095319622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Feeling fatigued following spring forward on Sunday? Don't let it cause an accident.The darker morning commute that we'll see starting Sunday and into Monday means you should be aware, especially around schools," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "In the darker drives, you may not see a school kid walking and that could cause a dangerous situation."The change also puts the sun in a different place in the sky in the afternoon, as well."You may be having bright sun in your eyes on your way home from work," Steward said. "It's an awareness thing. Prioritize sleep. Try to get a little bit of extra sleep over the next few days. Travel at times of the day when you are normally awake if possible. Look at things that you take that may cause drowsiness or other impairment."Slow down and stay alert and if it is darker than usual, be sure to use your headlights and if your vehicle has daytime running lights, be sure those are activated, as well.

Watch out for drowsy drivers after spring forward

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As is customary in March, the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce breakfast will have a basketball feel to it.&nbsp;

The March breakfast is sponsored by the NJCAA and will be held at Stringer Fine Arts Center, 600 E. 11th, starting at 8 a.m. Members will have the chance to hear from Spencer Haywood, 2015 inductee to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The youngest member of the 1968 gold-medal winning United States Olympic team, and its leading scorer, Haywood's journey in basketball was brilliant, though hardly conventional.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Join the Chamber to learn more about his story and help celebrate 75 years of the NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship. The cost for members is $15 — advance registration is required for all attendees, including Flash Pass holders.

<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/2021/10/1635351049170.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As is customary in March, the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce breakfast will have a basketball feel to it.&nbsp;The March breakfast is sponsored by the NJCAA and will be held at Stringer Fine Arts Center, 600 E. 11th, starting at 8 a.m. Members will have the chance to hear from Spencer Haywood, 2015 inductee to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The youngest member of the 1968 gold-medal winning United States Olympic team, and its leading scorer, Haywood's journey in basketball was brilliant, though hardly conventional.&nbsp;&nbsp;Join the Chamber to learn more about his story and help celebrate 75 years of the NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship. The cost for members is $15 — advance registration is required for all attendees, including Flash Pass holders.<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.

Hutchinson Chamber breakfast is Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — An inmate at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility has died. 

The Kansas Department of Corrections says Charles A. Beck Jr. died Friday after being transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased by hospital staff. The cause of death is pending an autopsy, but is not believed to be COVID-19 related.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of KDOC, the death is under investigation by KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI).

Beck, who was 48 years old, was serving a hard 25 sentence plus 165 months for convictions in Sedgwick and Russell counties on first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, violation of a protective order, battery on a correctional officer/employee, and drug possession.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581036438717.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — An inmate at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility has died. The Kansas Department of Corrections says Charles A. Beck Jr. died Friday after being transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased by hospital staff. The cause of death is pending an autopsy, but is not believed to be COVID-19 related.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of KDOC, the death is under investigation by KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI).Beck, who was 48 years old, was serving a hard 25 sentence plus 165 months for convictions in Sedgwick and Russell counties on first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, violation of a protective order, battery on a correctional officer/employee, and drug possession.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HCF inmate dies

NEWTON, Kan. — An improvement project for Hesston Road is scheduled to begin March 14. The road was previously U.S. 81 in the days before interstates were built and is the most heavily traveled road maintained by Harvey County.

The $4.1 million project includes road resurfacing from the Newton city limit to the Harvey County line at Northwest 108th Street. It also includes the addition of paved 4-foot shoulders.

Hesston Road is anticipated to be closed in increments during the resurfacing project. The road will be closed in sections to traffic in both directions. Drivers are encouraged to plan for alternate routes during the project.

The project will begin Monday on the southeastern portion of the road at the Newton city limits. As the project progresses in the coming months, work will later move to the northwestern section of the road between the county line and the city of Hesston, and will conclude with work inside the Hesston city limits.

Homeowners and businesses will still have access to their properties throughout the project.

If all goes as planned, the reload work should be completed in late August. The Harvey County road and bridge budget includes $2,005,000 earmarked for the Hesston Road improvement project. The county will pay the remaining balance through American Rescue Plan Act funds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647015605177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — An improvement project for Hesston Road is scheduled to begin March 14. The road was previously U.S. 81 in the days before interstates were built and is the most heavily traveled road maintained by Harvey County.The $4.1 million project includes road resurfacing from the Newton city limit to the Harvey County line at Northwest 108th Street. It also includes the addition of paved 4-foot shoulders.Hesston Road is anticipated to be closed in increments during the resurfacing project. The road will be closed in sections to traffic in both directions. Drivers are encouraged to plan for alternate routes during the project.The project will begin Monday on the southeastern portion of the road at the Newton city limits. As the project progresses in the coming months, work will later move to the northwestern section of the road between the county line and the city of Hesston, and will conclude with work inside the Hesston city limits.Homeowners and businesses will still have access to their properties throughout the project.If all goes as planned, the reload work should be completed in late August. The Harvey County road and bridge budget includes $2,005,000 earmarked for the Hesston Road improvement project. The county will pay the remaining balance through American Rescue Plan Act funds.<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.

Hesston Road project to begin Monday

RICE COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Friday in Rice County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Tahoe driven by Baldomero&nbsp;Arenivas-Armendariz, 34, Lyons, westbound on U.S. 56 just east of 20th Road.

The SUV crossed over into the eastbound lanes, left the roadway into the north ditch and struck the embankment.

EMS transported Arenivas-Armendariz to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610405866466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RICE COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Friday in Rice County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Tahoe driven by Baldomero&nbsp;Arenivas-Armendariz, 34, Lyons, westbound on U.S. 56 just east of 20th Road.The SUV crossed over into the eastbound lanes, left the roadway into the north ditch and struck the embankment.EMS transported Arenivas-Armendariz to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after SUV struck embankment 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — First District Congressman Tracey Mann introduced the Use Stocks, Stop Russia Act of 2022.&nbsp;

The bill directs the president to prohibit Russian petroleum products from being imported into the United States, resumes construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline, and encourages the use of domestically-produced energy, including renewable energy, to meet the current demand for energy in the United States.

"It's high time America utilizes the energy supply in our own backyard," Rep. Mann said. "President Biden's policies have put us in a position where we can't afford to hit Russia where it hurts — their oil and gas exports to the U.S. — because he’s made us so dependent on other nations’ energy supplies. It's time for President Biden to put America's best interests first."

Mann believes it is important for the U.S. to be energy-independent and end its reliance on Russian oil.

Mann also voted for the Suspending Energy Import from Russia Act, which would ban importing Russian products into the United States and require the president to impose sanctions on those that have directly or indirectly engaged in serious human rights violations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634812906441.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON, D.C. — First District Congressman Tracey Mann introduced the Use Stocks, Stop Russia Act of 2022.&nbsp;The bill directs the president to prohibit Russian petroleum products from being imported into the United States, resumes construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline, and encourages the use of domestically-produced energy, including renewable energy, to meet the current demand for energy in the United States."It's high time America utilizes the energy supply in our own backyard," Rep. Mann said. "President Biden's policies have put us in a position where we can't afford to hit Russia where it hurts — their oil and gas exports to the U.S. — because he’s made us so dependent on other nations’ energy supplies. It's time for President Biden to put America's best interests first."Mann believes it is important for the U.S. to be energy-independent and end its reliance on Russian oil.Mann also voted for the Suspending Energy Import from Russia Act, which would ban importing Russian products into the United States and require the president to impose sanctions on those that have directly or indirectly engaged in serious human rights violations.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mann introduces legislation to support domestic energy

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two USD 308 elementary schools have received Challenge Awards in recognition of making progress on student achievement despite challenges in their school population.

Faris Elementary School and Lincoln Elementary School have been named Challenge Award winners for 2022 by The Confidence in Education Task Force. The Challenge Awards are based on state assessments in schools with high percentages of students from disadvantaged backgrounds. More than 1,700 awards have been presented to schools across Kansas since 2002.

&nbsp;"Lincoln is excited to be receiving one of the Challenge Awards. This award means so much to us because it indicates how resilient we are as a community,” Darla Fisher, principal of Lincoln Elementary School, said. “During the pandemic, our students, staff and families have supported one another through the ever-changing learning environments. Even when are we faced with challenges and hardships, we persevere so that our students will continue to learn," Fisher said.

Faris and Lincoln are among the top 100 Kansas schools for 2022 that meet certain criteria on the Kansas math and reading state assessments and also have above the state average of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch.

"Faris Elementary is honored to be receiving one of this year's Challenge Awards from KSDE's Confidence in Education Task Force. This award is not about any one person or any one group,” James Moffett, principal at Faris Elementary School, said. “This award highlights our students' hard work, our staff's commitment and the support of the Hutchinson community. Together each of these groups show up day after day to do what's best for kids. As a principal, it's amazing to see these groups recognized for all they do," Moffett said.

The awards showcase the positive academic achievements of the students at both Faris and Lincoln elementary schools. They also serve as motivation as schools enter this year’s state testing season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two USD 308 elementary schools have received Challenge Awards in recognition of making progress on student achievement despite challenges in their school population.Faris Elementary School and Lincoln Elementary School have been named Challenge Award winners for 2022 by The Confidence in Education Task Force. The Challenge Awards are based on state assessments in schools with high percentages of students from disadvantaged backgrounds. More than 1,700 awards have been presented to schools across Kansas since 2002.&nbsp;"Lincoln is excited to be receiving one of the Challenge Awards. This award means so much to us because it indicates how resilient we are as a community,” Darla Fisher, principal of Lincoln Elementary School, said. “During the pandemic, our students, staff and families have supported one another through the ever-changing learning environments. Even when are we faced with challenges and hardships, we persevere so that our students will continue to learn," Fisher said.Faris and Lincoln are among the top 100 Kansas schools for 2022 that meet certain criteria on the Kansas math and reading state assessments and also have above the state average of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch."Faris Elementary is honored to be receiving one of this year's Challenge Awards from KSDE's Confidence in Education Task Force. This award is not about any one person or any one group,” James Moffett, principal at Faris Elementary School, said. “This award highlights our students' hard work, our staff's commitment and the support of the Hutchinson community. Together each of these groups show up day after day to do what's best for kids. As a principal, it's amazing to see these groups recognized for all they do," Moffett said.The awards showcase the positive academic achievements of the students at both Faris and Lincoln elementary schools. They also serve as motivation as schools enter this year’s state testing season.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Faris and Lincoln schools win Challenge Awards


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County is below the average gas price for the state of Kansas, as it is at $3.81, with the state average at $3.82 and Shawn Steward with AAA says Kansas is actually better than the rest of the country.

"We have seen in the last couple of days a little bit of slowing in terms of that rise in average price," Steward said. "Yesterday was only a cent less than today and the previous day, we only saw a two cent rise. It seems to have slowed down here the second half of this week. If there is a little bit of silver lining, Kansas today has the cheapest average gas price in the United States." 

Part of the reason for that is some of the variable costs of gasoline have to do with travel distance, and Kansas has its own refining capacity in McPherson, El Dorado and Coffeyville.

"That's one of the good things about living in the center of the country," Steward said. "We're also not terribly far from the Gulf Coast where the largest amount of refining in our country takes place. Having nearby refineries certainly helps."

AAA surveyed consumers about what price would make them change their driving habits, as well.

"Over half, 59%, said they would make changes to their driving habits or lifestyle if the cost of gas rose to $4 per gallon," Steward said. "Right now, there are 41 states, plus D.C., now over $4. In that survey, respondents also said that if gas were to reach $5, which it has in the western part of the country in some places, three quarters said that they would need to adjust their lifestyles to offset that spike at the pump. In that research, of people who said they would make changes, 80% said they would drive less."

Younger folks under 35 would consider carpooling, while those older than 35 are more likely to combine trips and errands.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631897543449.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County is below the average gas price for the state of Kansas, as it is at $3.81, with the state average at $3.82 and Shawn Steward with AAA says Kansas is actually better than the rest of the country."We have seen in the last couple of days a little bit of slowing in terms of that rise in average price," Steward said. "Yesterday was only a cent less than today and the previous day, we only saw a two cent rise. It seems to have slowed down here the second half of this week. If there is a little bit of silver lining, Kansas today has the cheapest average gas price in the United States." Part of the reason for that is some of the variable costs of gasoline have to do with travel distance, and Kansas has its own refining capacity in McPherson, El Dorado and Coffeyville."That's one of the good things about living in the center of the country," Steward said. "We're also not terribly far from the Gulf Coast where the largest amount of refining in our country takes place. Having nearby refineries certainly helps."AAA surveyed consumers about what price would make them change their driving habits, as well."Over half, 59%, said they would make changes to their driving habits or lifestyle if the cost of gas rose to $4 per gallon," Steward said. "Right now, there are 41 states, plus D.C., now over $4. In that survey, respondents also said that if gas were to reach $5, which it has in the western part of the country in some places, three quarters said that they would need to adjust their lifestyles to offset that spike at the pump. In that research, of people who said they would make changes, 80% said they would drive less."Younger folks under 35 would consider carpooling, while those older than 35 are more likely to combine trips and errands.

AAA: Prices not yet $4 a gallon locally, but that may be tipping point

Whether you’re on the road or camping, will you be ready for sudden flash flooding?

Make sure to enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone. If flooding occurs while you’re outdoors, immediately get to higher ground, and NEVER enter floodwaters in a vehicle or on foot...find out more on what to do at&nbsp;<a href="https://ksstorm.info/prepare-2022-flooded-out/">https://ksstorm.info/prepare-2022-flooded-out/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647000136335.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Whether you’re on the road or camping, will you be ready for sudden flash flooding?<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647000211583.jpeg" alt="Photo by Daria Rem from Pexels" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Daria Rem from Pexels</figcaption>
 </figure>Make sure to enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone. If flooding occurs while you’re outdoors, immediately get to higher ground, and NEVER enter floodwaters in a vehicle or on foot...find out more on what to do at&nbsp;<a href="https://ksstorm.info/prepare-2022-flooded-out/">https://ksstorm.info/prepare-2022-flooded-out/</a>

Prepare 2022: Flooded Out

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While there is certainly an unimaginable emotional toll on the victims of Saturday's fire, it is also taking a physical and emotional toll on fire crews.&nbsp;

Most were out for several days with limited breaks during Saturday's fire and were just as busy two weeks earlier with the Albright and Linksland events. Fire Chief Steve Beer says his department is tired.

“I can tell, they’re beat, they’re tired, they’re exhausted. Right now I’m more worried about the mental aspect of my employees,” Beer said. “We’re a young department. Almost 55% of my department is under five years experience. And again it's something these men and women do . . . the average public citizen has no idea what they just went through.”

Beer says the city has special programs in place to help first responders and firefighters deal with such events.

“The City of Hutchinson does have a program that is called Impact, where they have a core group of Wichita therapists that come in and they have one-on-one sessions with employees,” Beer said. “Recovering a body, stuff like that, it’s just not normal.” Beer says many changes have been made to make sure the well-being of law enforcement, first responders and firefighters are met.

“Years ago in the fire service . . . you did it and you just moved on. And we just had ways of dealing with different things,” Beer said. “That way is no longer acceptable. We value and we have to make sure we take care of our number one asset, our employees.”

The fire department also wanted to again thank all of the outside resources that have been made available through VOAD and the United Way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646592084862.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — While there is certainly an unimaginable emotional toll on the victims of Saturday's fire, it is also taking a physical and emotional toll on fire crews.&nbsp;Most were out for several days with limited breaks during Saturday's fire and were just as busy two weeks earlier with the Albright and Linksland events. Fire Chief Steve Beer says his department is tired.“I can tell, they’re beat, they’re tired, they’re exhausted. Right now I’m more worried about the mental aspect of my employees,” Beer said. “We’re a young department. Almost 55% of my department is under five years experience. And again it's something these men and women do . . . the average public citizen has no idea what they just went through.”Beer says the city has special programs in place to help first responders and firefighters deal with such events.“The City of Hutchinson does have a program that is called Impact, where they have a core group of Wichita therapists that come in and they have one-on-one sessions with employees,” Beer said. “Recovering a body, stuff like that, it’s just not normal.” Beer says many changes have been made to make sure the well-being of law enforcement, first responders and firefighters are met.“Years ago in the fire service . . . you did it and you just moved on. And we just had ways of dealing with different things,” Beer said. “That way is no longer acceptable. We value and we have to make sure we take care of our number one asset, our employees.”The fire department also wanted to again thank all of the outside resources that have been made available through VOAD and the United Way.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beer says his department is tired

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire continues to put out what remains of the Cottonwood Complex fire that swept through the area on Saturday. Fire Chief Steve Beer presented two maps of the areas affected by the fire. 

Of the 35 homes that were destroyed, nearly all of them were in an area from Victory Road to Clydesdale and from 4th north to 17th Avenue. As of now, the fire is close to being contained.

”Crews continue to make good progress,” Beer said. “They are actually working over 26 miles of perimeter around this fire.”

Despite the cooler conditions and some snow, there are still pockets of fire to be found.

“We continue to have flare ups due to the heavy timber. Crews even reported finding burning tires and some different things,” Beer said. “We anticipate that to continue for the next few days or even into next week.”

Beer noted that homes with at least a 100-foot perimeter around them that had limited tree growth survived the fire while those that were more crowded with red cedars and trees did not. Beer says the devastation in the burned-out areas is beyond what you would see with other weather disasters.

“We talk about floods, we talk about tornadoes,” Beer said. “When a fire comes through the area, when people lose everything, they lose everything. We have people out there right now sifting through the ashes trying to find a piece of jewelry, trying to find a ring, trying to find something that they can tie back to their home.”&nbsp;

Beer says the recovery from the fire will be a very long time coming and help is still needed, especially monetary donations. You can help by dialing 211, or by sending donations to the United Way at 924 N. Main in Hutchinson. You can donate online at <a href="https://www.unitedwayofrenocounty.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&amp;id=11">unitedwayofrenocounty.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646943736111.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire continues to put out what remains of the Cottonwood Complex fire that swept through the area on Saturday. Fire Chief Steve Beer presented two maps of the areas affected by the fire. Of the 35 homes that were destroyed, nearly all of them were in an area from Victory Road to Clydesdale and from 4th north to 17th Avenue. As of now, the fire is close to being contained.”Crews continue to make good progress,” Beer said. “They are actually working over 26 miles of perimeter around this fire.”Despite the cooler conditions and some snow, there are still pockets of fire to be found.“We continue to have flare ups due to the heavy timber. Crews even reported finding burning tires and some different things,” Beer said. “We anticipate that to continue for the next few days or even into next week.”Beer noted that homes with at least a 100-foot perimeter around them that had limited tree growth survived the fire while those that were more crowded with red cedars and trees did not. Beer says the devastation in the burned-out areas is beyond what you would see with other weather disasters.“We talk about floods, we talk about tornadoes,” Beer said. “When a fire comes through the area, when people lose everything, they lose everything. We have people out there right now sifting through the ashes trying to find a piece of jewelry, trying to find a ring, trying to find something that they can tie back to their home.”&nbsp;Beer says the recovery from the fire will be a very long time coming and help is still needed, especially monetary donations. You can help by dialing 211, or by sending donations to the United Way at 924 N. Main in Hutchinson. You can donate online at <a href="https://www.unitedwayofrenocounty.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&amp;id=11">unitedwayofrenocounty.org</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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fire caused complete devastation in very small area


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will consider a contract for reconstruction of West 11th Avenue from the Harsha Canal to Main Street as part of Tuesday's meeting.

The work is set to be done by Vogts/Parga LLC of Newton at a cost of $2,664,126. The engineer's estimate was $3.2 million. The work will involve a nearly one-mile stretch of West 11th. 

This includes a full reconstruction of 11th between Monroe and the Harsha Canal. This means new roadway, curb and gutter and sidewalks. Between Monroe and Main will be a partial reconstruction with sidewalk removal and replacement along with curb and gutter and a mill and overlay of the street.

Tuesday's Hutchinson City Council meeting begins at 9 a.m. at City Hall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646997718741.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will consider a contract for reconstruction of West 11th Avenue from the Harsha Canal to Main Street as part of Tuesday's meeting.The work is set to be done by Vogts/Parga LLC of Newton at a cost of $2,664,126. The engineer's estimate was $3.2 million. The work will involve a nearly one-mile stretch of West 11th. This includes a full reconstruction of 11th between Monroe and the Harsha Canal. This means new roadway, curb and gutter and sidewalks. Between Monroe and Main will be a partial reconstruction with sidewalk removal and replacement along with curb and gutter and a mill and overlay of the street.Tuesday's Hutchinson City Council meeting begins at 9 a.m. at City Hall.

West 11th Avenue project part of Hutch City Council agenda Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan.– The free document destruction event scheduled for Hutchinson on Thursday, March 10 has been postponed for today.

Because of winter weather conditions, the event, planned by the Attorney General's Office as part of National Consumer Protection Week, has been postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date.

Document destruction events planned for other locations in the state the remainder of the week are still scheduled to occur. More information on those events is available at <a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614007886340.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.– The free document destruction event scheduled for Hutchinson on Thursday, March 10 has been postponed for today.Because of winter weather conditions, the event, planned by the Attorney General's Office as part of National Consumer Protection Week, has been postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date.Document destruction events planned for other locations in the state the remainder of the week are still scheduled to occur. More information on those events is available at <a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>.

Document shredding drop off event postponed

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire continues to put out what remains of the Cottonwood Complex fire that swept through the area on Saturday. Fire Chief Steve beer presented two maps of the areas affected by the fire. Of the 35 homes that were destroyed nearly all of them were in an area from Victory Road to Clydesdale and from 4th north to 17th Avenue.&nbsp;

Here are two maps that show where the buildings were damaged or destroyed and the outline of the fire. The second map is a satellite image of the fire and how it spread through the area.

Crews battled along three different fronts during the fire due to wind change which can be seen on the satellite image. The perimeter of the fire stretches about 26.3-miles.&nbsp;

Local photographer Nick Hemphill was able to capture a view of the fire damage from the air.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire continues to put out what remains of the Cottonwood Complex fire that swept through the area on Saturday. Fire Chief Steve beer presented two maps of the areas affected by the fire. Of the 35 homes that were destroyed nearly all of them were in an area from Victory Road to Clydesdale and from 4th north to 17th Avenue.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646933005836.jpeg" alt="This map shows where most of the homes were damaged or destroyed. The one mile square&nbsp; that is mostly red in color is just east of the Cottonwood Hills golf complex. Nearly all of the homes destroyed in the fire came from that area." />
 <figcaption>This map shows where most of the homes were damaged or destroyed. The one mile square&nbsp; that is mostly red in color is just east of the Cottonwood Hills golf complex. Nearly all of the homes destroyed in the fire came from that area.</figcaption>
 </figure>Here are two maps that show where the buildings were damaged or destroyed and the outline of the fire. The second map is a satellite image of the fire and how it spread through the area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646932833567.jpeg" alt="The is the thermal satellite image of the fire. On the lower left is where the fire started which is shaded in green. The yellow and orange areas are around the Cottonwood Hills area where the fire gained intensity.&nbsp; You can also see where the wind shifts that day spread the fire in three different directions." />
 <figcaption>The is the thermal satellite image of the fire. On the lower left is where the fire started which is shaded in green. The yellow and orange areas are around the Cottonwood Hills area where the fire gained intensity.&nbsp; You can also see where the wind shifts that day spread the fire in three different directions.</figcaption>
 </figure>Crews battled along three different fronts during the fire due to wind change which can be seen on the satellite image. The perimeter of the fire stretches about 26.3-miles.&nbsp;Local photographer Nick Hemphill was able to capture a view of the fire damage from the air.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HETYzppMDVw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><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;