Prepare 2022: Severe WX Preparedness Starts Now

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The United Way of Reno County leads the Reno County VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) for the community and says they are set up to help victims of the fire.

Reno County VOAD was activated Sunday morning in response to the Reno County Fires yesterday.&nbsp; United Way is the backbone organization and chair the VOAD whose mission is to meet the need for ongoing coordination in Reno County providing volunteer, financial, spiritual, physical and/or psychological support for people whose lives have been affected by a disaster in our community.&nbsp;

In coordination with the Reno County Emergency Management the United Way wants to direct individuals to call 211 for both requests for &nbsp;assistance in recovery of the fire and for those wishing to donate financially to the Reno County Fire fund.&nbsp; Those who wish to donate financially to the recovery effort can do so at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.unitedwayofrenocounty.org/" target="_blank">www.unitedwayofrenocounty.org</a>.&nbsp; or drop a donation at the office located at 924 N. Main.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594828425851.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The United Way of Reno County leads the Reno County VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) for the community and says they are set up to help victims of the fire.Reno County VOAD was activated Sunday morning in response to the Reno County Fires yesterday.&nbsp; United Way is the backbone organization and chair the VOAD whose mission is to meet the need for ongoing coordination in Reno County providing volunteer, financial, spiritual, physical and/or psychological support for people whose lives have been affected by a disaster in our community.&nbsp;In coordination with the Reno County Emergency Management the United Way wants to direct individuals to call 211 for both requests for &nbsp;assistance in recovery of the fire and for those wishing to donate financially to the Reno County Fire fund.&nbsp; Those who wish to donate financially to the recovery effort can do so at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.unitedwayofrenocounty.org/" target="_blank">www.unitedwayofrenocounty.org</a>.&nbsp; or drop a donation at the office located at 924 N. Main.&nbsp;&nbsp;

United Way activates VOAD

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ironically, the Cottonwood Complex fire comes on the fifth anniversary of the Highlands fire that swept through the northern part of Reno County. That fire brought changes to the way Hutchinson Fire operates and reacts to those fires. While things have improved, there is still more that needs to be done, according to fire chief Steve Beer.

“We need help, we need changes in ordinances, we need changes in planning, we need help,” Beer said. “With the type of fires that we have sometimes, it feels like taking a knife to a gunfight.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

As with the fires two weeks ago, Beer says the efforts of many help the fire department do its job.

“The men and women out there do a heck of a job,” Beer said. “It’s a team approach from the sheriff’s department to emergency management to our mutual aid partners.”

Beer says that he can’t thank the efforts of the Reno County Sheriff’s Department — who helped with evacuations — enough.

“The sheriff has his deputies going house-to-house ahead of us clearing the way to get these people out of the house so we can stay focused on the fire fight,” Beer said. “It’s a great testimony to what we have going on in Reno County.&nbsp;

During the fires two weeks ago, Beer stated that changes needed to be made and says those changes could be coming soon.

“I have some changes that we are recommending for the city,” Beer said. “We put a laundry list of recommendations to present to the county board.”

The matter will be discussed by the Reno County Commission during the March 22 meeting.

<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/2022/3/1646592084862.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the City of Hutchinson." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the City of Hutchinson.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ironically, the Cottonwood Complex fire comes on the fifth anniversary of the Highlands fire that swept through the northern part of Reno County. That fire brought changes to the way Hutchinson Fire operates and reacts to those fires. While things have improved, there is still more that needs to be done, according to fire chief Steve Beer.“We need help, we need changes in ordinances, we need changes in planning, we need help,” Beer said. “With the type of fires that we have sometimes, it feels like taking a knife to a gunfight.”&nbsp;&nbsp;As with the fires two weeks ago, Beer says the efforts of many help the fire department do its job.“The men and women out there do a heck of a job,” Beer said. “It’s a team approach from the sheriff’s department to emergency management to our mutual aid partners.”Beer says that he can’t thank the efforts of the Reno County Sheriff’s Department — who helped with evacuations — enough.“The sheriff has his deputies going house-to-house ahead of us clearing the way to get these people out of the house so we can stay focused on the fire fight,” Beer said. “It’s a great testimony to what we have going on in Reno County.&nbsp;During the fires two weeks ago, Beer stated that changes needed to be made and says those changes could be coming soon.“I have some changes that we are recommending for the city,” Beer said. “We put a laundry list of recommendations to present to the county board.”The matter will be discussed by the Reno County Commission during the March 22 meeting.<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.

Beer says more needs to be done to control wildfires in the county

UPDATE: As of 3:45 p.m. One of the previously-missing individuals was located safe this morning.

Unfortunately, one individual has also been found deceased. Positive identification has not been made yet and this is an ongoing investigation. Further details will be released as soon as identification is made and notification is made to the next of kin.

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HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson fire crews continue to search for one person who is still missing from the Cottonwood Complex fire. A second person who was missing has been found. Crews are searching in an area along Victory Road south of 4th Avenue as of Sunday morning

Fire Chief Steve Beer says they are conducting a grid search for the missing person. The county is part of a special task force that is equipped with GPS and other technology to do a complete and thorough search of a particular area.

“They have equipment to make sure we don’t miss one inch of the area,” Beer said. “They’ll grid it out (search area) using GPS then walk in grid lines and make sure every inch of that grid is covered.”

Beer says that type of search is very systematic.&nbsp;

The same task force was used during the Greensburg tornado to help in recovery efforts there.

<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/2022/2/1644279032256.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: As of 3:45 p.m. One of the previously-missing individuals was located safe this morning.Unfortunately, one individual has also been found deceased. Positive identification has not been made yet and this is an ongoing investigation. Further details will be released as soon as identification is made and notification is made to the next of kin.___________________________________________By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson fire crews continue to search for one person who is still missing from the Cottonwood Complex fire. A second person who was missing has been found. Crews are searching in an area along Victory Road south of 4th Avenue as of Sunday morningFire Chief Steve Beer says they are conducting a grid search for the missing person. The county is part of a special task force that is equipped with GPS and other technology to do a complete and thorough search of a particular area.“They have equipment to make sure we don’t miss one inch of the area,” Beer said. “They’ll grid it out (search area) using GPS then walk in grid lines and make sure every inch of that grid is covered.”Beer says that type of search is very systematic.&nbsp;The same task force was used during the Greensburg tornado to help in recovery efforts there.<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;

UPDATE: Search for missing person ends, body located in fire area

MCPHERSON COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 2 p.m. Sunday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Ford Explorer driven by Marilyn K.&nbsp; Sidebottom, 66, Wichita, was northbound on Interstate 135 a mile and a half south of Arrowhead Road.

The driver lost control due to road conditions. The SUV traveled the road off into the east ditch and struck the bridge pillar.

&nbsp;EMS transported Sidebottom to Newton Medical Center.&nbsp; She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643816508408.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 2 p.m. Sunday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Ford Explorer driven by Marilyn K.&nbsp; Sidebottom, 66, Wichita, was northbound on Interstate 135 a mile and a half south of Arrowhead Road.The driver lost control due to road conditions. The SUV traveled the road off into the east ditch and struck the bridge pillar.&nbsp;EMS transported Sidebottom to Newton Medical Center.&nbsp; She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after SUV struck bridge pillar

KINGMAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Kingman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Ford Expedition driven by Maurice R. Mack, 47 San Diego, CA., was westbound on U.S. 54&nbsp; one quarter mile west of Northwest 120th Avenue.

The driver lost control on the slush packed roads. The SUV entered the north ditch, rolled and came to rest on the driver's side.

EMS transported a passenger Joyce Baker, 36,San Diego to the hospital in Pratt. The driver and 6 children in the SUV were not injured. All 8 were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645116724739.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Kingman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Ford Expedition driven by Maurice R. Mack, 47 San Diego, CA., was westbound on U.S. 54&nbsp; one quarter mile west of Northwest 120th Avenue.The driver lost control on the slush packed roads. The SUV entered the north ditch, rolled and came to rest on the driver's side.EMS transported a passenger Joyce Baker, 36,San Diego to the hospital in Pratt. The driver and 6 children in the SUV were not injured. All 8 were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

One hospitalized after SUV rolls in Kingman County

UPDATE: As of 11:00 a.m. Sunday. Fire crews continue to hold hotspots and perform burnout operations on approximately 12,000 acres affected by the fire.

Four task force units remained on the scene overnight and five are operating today. Crews are also making detailed damage assessments. As of 8 a.m. Sunday, there were two missing individuals. One has been located safe. One other is still missing and a search is underway to locate that person. If you are missing a loved one, you are asked to call dispatch at 620-694-2800.

Flight restrictions remain in place from Obee Road to Burmac Road and from 30th Avenue to US-50. This is so aerial crews can continue to make water drops. The no-fly includes drones, so keep them far away from the area. Hutch Fire is also stressing that, even though Buhler Road is open, motorists need to stay out of the area. 4th and G Avenues are still closed from Willison to the county line as are the crossroads in those areas. Black Hawk helicopters were expected to begin operations Sunday morning, dropping water.

For those wishing to make donations of water and gatorade, you can drop them off at the fire command center at 3201 E. 4th Ave. Please do not bring food. Monetary donations to help the victims of the fire can be made by calling 211 or by going to <a href="http://unitedwayofrenocounty.org">unitedwayofrenocounty.org</a>. Donations can also be mailed to 924 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Both shelters at Burrton High School and the Hutchinson Salvation Army are closed and all of those needing assistance are being handled by the Red Cross on a case-by-case basis. The cause of the fire has not been determined at this time and it will be several days before the fire is brought under control.

UPDATE: As of 10 p.m. Hutch Fire says the Cottonwood Complex fire began at 12:37 p.m. south of 4th Avenue near Willison. The fire quickly jumped Buhler Road and went east. The fire has burned about 12 square miles. There have been civilian injuries and one person is still reported as missing. If you have loved ones missing, you're asked to call 911. A 211 number has been set up to help with donations for those displaced by the fire.

A large number of structures have been damaged or destroyed but the extent of the damage won't be known until morning. Crews continue to put out areas of fire within the area burned. Evergy is working to restore power to the area.

The following roads are still closed: 4th Avenue and Avenue G from Buhler Road to the county line and Victory, Rayl and Worthington roads in those areas. 

All other roads are open as of 11 p.m. but people are asked to stay out of the area due to the large number of trucks and other equipment in the area.

A temporary flight restriction is in place in the burned-out area due to aerial fire fighting efforts that will continue into tomorrow. Black Hawk helicopters are expected to assist starting tomorrow.&nbsp; That includes drones. Residents are being allowed back to their homes but any other traffic is not allowed. Cattle pens have been set up at the Gray residence at 8115 E. 4th Ave. for those who need to use them for livestock.

Hutch Fire says it does not know how serious the civilian injuries were and did say one fire truck was involved in an accident today. Crews will be working for several days to finish up the fire and a favorable forecast is calling for lighter winds and a chance of rain on Sunday. The fire department says it will hold another press conference Sunday morning.

UPDATE: As of 7:54 p.m. Some fire crews are being released as others continue to hit various hot spots. That will continue through the night and well into tomorrow. A press conference is scheduled for 9:30 this evening. We will be back following that update with a final look at today's events.&nbsp; The Reno County Task Force has been released and all units are heading back to their stations.

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UPDATE: As of 7:33 p.m. Power is out in several areas where the fire swept through east of Buhler Road. Most of the housing area east of Cottonwood Hills is without service. Power lines were down in the area of 4th and Worthington. A total of 87 Evergy customers are without service, mostly along 4th Avenue between Buhler Road and the county line.&nbsp;

UPDATE: As of 7 p.m. Crews have been called to 10307 E. 4th for a rekindle of the fire on that property. Such calls have been coming in as the wind continues to be a problem. Crews are combing the area for hot spots and hosing down areas to keep things under control.&nbsp;

UPDATE: As of 6:31. Crews have been called to an area around 615 Hidden Meadow Lane for a brush fire. This is near Willison and 4th, which is near where the fire started this afternoon.

UPDATE: As of 6:25 p.m. Crews appear to be getting a little more of an upper hand on the fire although it will be days before it is brought fully under control, according to the Hutchinson Fire Department. The area of the fire is so large that many hot spots will need to be monitored throughout the night time. Current weather temperature is 41 with humidity at 61% and winds NW at 22 with gusts still near 40 MPH.

UPDATE: As of 6:11 p.m. Doug Hanen with the Hutchinson Fire Department says the Cottonwood Hills fire could take several days to be brought under control. Hanen gave a brief update on the fire earlier. Another update from the fire department is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Crews are still fighting the fire along multiple fronts after the wind shifted. Winds are expected to finally die down around midnight but will still be above 20 MPH.&nbsp;

UPDATE: As of 5:30 p.m.&nbsp;Efforts to stop the fire continue along 4th and G avenues east of Buhler Road. There are reports of homes lost from the fire. The Kansas Department of Emergency Management has dispatched two Black Hawk helicopters to help with the aerial efforts&nbsp; to fight the fire.&nbsp;

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UPDATE: As of 5:23 p.m. The Kansas Forrest Service has provided two aerial resources to help with what is being called the Cottonwood Hills Complex fire. The Kansas Department of Transportation has requested that airspace around Reno and Harvey counties be closed due to the aerial fire fighting efforts.

UPDATE: As of 5:05 p.m. During a short press conference, details were made available about the fire. The blaze started around 12:37 p.m. at 800 Willison, which is about a mile west of Buhler Road. The fire quickly jumped into the old Cottonwood Hills golf course and raced east into Harvey County. Crews have also been called to the KWCH tower building a few minutes ago for a fire. Numerous structures have been involved in this fire and crews continue to work between G Ave. and US-50 and then west of Buhler Road.&nbsp;

UPDATE: As of 4:45 p.m. Hutchinson Fire says if you want to donate food or drinks for fire crews that you drop them off at the command center located on East 4th just west of the old Eaton building. The address is 3201 E. 4th.

___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 4:29 p.m. Residents in the Burrton area who have had to evacuate due to the fire can find shelter at Burrton High School at 115 E. Lincoln in Burrton. Residents closer to Hutchinson can find shelter at the Hutchinson Salvation Army at 700 N. Walnut.

UPDATE: As of 4:15 p.m. Crews are dealing with flare ups along 4th Avenue. Crews are working their way east of Buhler Rd. to make sure nothing become more of a problem. Power lines are reported down in the the 4th and Woodberry area along with trees blocking the road&nbsp; along Woodberry. Winds continues to gust above 45 MPH.

UPDATE: As of 3:53 p.m. Fire has been reported near Buhler Rd and Avenue G. The aerial tanker was doing water drops there. Winds are now out of the northwest at 30 and gusty. RH is up to 47% and the temperature is down to 55*.

___________________________________________BULLETIN - EAS ACTIVATION REQUESTED

Reno and Harvey counties Emergency Management

Relayed by National Weather Service Wichita KS

At the request of Reno and Harvey county Emergency Management, a large wildfire is ongoing in eastern Reno into western Harvey counties in between the towns of Buhler and Burrton. People are being asked to evacuate if you live in the following areas:

Reno County - Evacuate homes from 30th to U.S. Highway 50 from Buhler or Haven Road to Burmac Road.

 Harvey County - Immediate evacuation requested from U.S. Highway 50 to Northwest 48th from Woodbury to Sandhill Road

___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 3:00 p.m. The fire continues to burn its way into Harvey County. A front is just west of Reno County and winds are not as strong but are reported out of the northwest behind it. Here is a photo of our radar picking up the smoke.

UPDATE: AS of 2:48 p.m. Harvey County has ordered all residents living in an area from 1st to 48th Streets and from the county line east to Sand Hills Road to evacuate. Numerous structures have been involved this afternoon and crews continue to work to save others.&nbsp;

UPDATE: As of 2:25 p.m. Several structures are being threatened or are involved with this fire. Residents from Buhler Road east to the county line and from 4th Avenue North are being asked to evacuate.&nbsp;

___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 2:02 p.m. Adam Weishaar of Reno County Emergency Management says that a shelter is being set up at The Salvation Army in Hutchinson for those who are being evacuated.

UPDATE: As of 1:55 p.m.&nbsp;Evacuations are being recommended for residents along 30th Avenue between Buhler and Rayl roads. If you want to evacuate and feel you can't, you are asked to call 911. Evacuations are also being ordered for residents along Avenue G between Buhler and Rayl.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson fire crews along with crews from Rice, McPherson, Harvey and Sedgwick counties are fighting a major wildfire east of Hutchinson. 

Evacuations have been ordered for areas around the Palomino Development, residents around the old Cottonwood Hills golf course and all residents from Buhler Road to Rayl Road along 30th Avenue.

If residents cannot evacuate, they are urged to call 911 for assistance.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510766788.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: As of 11:00 a.m. Sunday. Fire crews continue to hold hotspots and perform burnout operations on approximately 12,000 acres affected by the fire.Four task force units remained on the scene overnight and five are operating today. Crews are also making detailed damage assessments. As of 8 a.m. Sunday, there were two missing individuals. One has been located safe. One other is still missing and a search is underway to locate that person. If you are missing a loved one, you are asked to call dispatch at 620-694-2800.Flight restrictions remain in place from Obee Road to Burmac Road and from 30th Avenue to US-50. This is so aerial crews can continue to make water drops. The no-fly includes drones, so keep them far away from the area. Hutch Fire is also stressing that, even though Buhler Road is open, motorists need to stay out of the area. 4th and G Avenues are still closed from Willison to the county line as are the crossroads in those areas. Black Hawk helicopters were expected to begin operations Sunday morning, dropping water.For those wishing to make donations of water and gatorade, you can drop them off at the fire command center at 3201 E. 4th Ave. Please do not bring food. Monetary donations to help the victims of the fire can be made by calling 211 or by going to <a href="http://unitedwayofrenocounty.org">unitedwayofrenocounty.org</a>. Donations can also be mailed to 924 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.Both shelters at Burrton High School and the Hutchinson Salvation Army are closed and all of those needing assistance are being handled by the Red Cross on a case-by-case basis. The cause of the fire has not been determined at this time and it will be several days before the fire is brought under control.___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 10 p.m. Hutch Fire says the Cottonwood Complex fire began at 12:37 p.m. south of 4th Avenue near Willison. The fire quickly jumped Buhler Road and went east. The fire has burned about 12 square miles. There have been civilian injuries and one person is still reported as missing. If you have loved ones missing, you're asked to call 911. A 211 number has been set up to help with donations for those displaced by the fire. A large number of structures have been damaged or destroyed but the extent of the damage won't be known until morning. Crews continue to put out areas of fire within the area burned. Evergy is working to restore power to the area.The following roads are still closed: 4th Avenue and Avenue G from Buhler Road to the county line and Victory, Rayl and Worthington roads in those areas. All other roads are open as of 11 p.m. but people are asked to stay out of the area due to the large number of trucks and other equipment in the area.A temporary flight restriction is in place in the burned-out area due to aerial fire fighting efforts that will continue into tomorrow. Black Hawk helicopters are expected to assist starting tomorrow.&nbsp; That includes drones. Residents are being allowed back to their homes but any other traffic is not allowed. Cattle pens have been set up at the Gray residence at 8115 E. 4th Ave. for those who need to use them for livestock.Hutch Fire says it does not know how serious the civilian injuries were and did say one fire truck was involved in an accident today. Crews will be working for several days to finish up the fire and a favorable forecast is calling for lighter winds and a chance of rain on Sunday. The fire department says it will hold another press conference Sunday morning.___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 7:54 p.m. Some fire crews are being released as others continue to hit various hot spots. That will continue through the night and well into tomorrow. A press conference is scheduled for 9:30 this evening. We will be back following that update with a final look at today's events.&nbsp; The Reno County Task Force has been released and all units are heading back to their stations.__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 7:33 p.m. Power is out in several areas where the fire swept through east of Buhler Road. Most of the housing area east of Cottonwood Hills is without service. Power lines were down in the area of 4th and Worthington. A total of 87 Evergy customers are without service, mostly along 4th Avenue between Buhler Road and the county line.&nbsp;__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 7 p.m. Crews have been called to 10307 E. 4th for a rekindle of the fire on that property. Such calls have been coming in as the wind continues to be a problem. Crews are combing the area for hot spots and hosing down areas to keep things under control.&nbsp;__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 6:31. Crews have been called to an area around 615 Hidden Meadow Lane for a brush fire. This is near Willison and 4th, which is near where the fire started this afternoon.__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 6:25 p.m. Crews appear to be getting a little more of an upper hand on the fire although it will be days before it is brought fully under control, according to the Hutchinson Fire Department. The area of the fire is so large that many hot spots will need to be monitored throughout the night time. Current weather temperature is 41 with humidity at 61% and winds NW at 22 with gusts still near 40 MPH.__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 6:11 p.m. Doug Hanen with the Hutchinson Fire Department says the Cottonwood Hills fire could take several days to be brought under control. Hanen gave a brief update on the fire earlier. Another update from the fire department is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Crews are still fighting the fire along multiple fronts after the wind shifted. Winds are expected to finally die down around midnight but will still be above 20 MPH.&nbsp;__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 5:30 p.m.&nbsp;Efforts to stop the fire continue along 4th and G avenues east of Buhler Road. There are reports of homes lost from the fire. The Kansas Department of Emergency Management has dispatched two Black Hawk helicopters to help with the aerial efforts&nbsp; to fight the fire.&nbsp;_________________________________________UPDATE: As of 5:23 p.m. The Kansas Forrest Service has provided two aerial resources to help with what is being called the Cottonwood Hills Complex fire. The Kansas Department of Transportation has requested that airspace around Reno and Harvey counties be closed due to the aerial fire fighting efforts.__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 5:05 p.m. During a short press conference, details were made available about the fire. The blaze started around 12:37 p.m. at 800 Willison, which is about a mile west of Buhler Road. The fire quickly jumped into the old Cottonwood Hills golf course and raced east into Harvey County. Crews have also been called to the KWCH tower building a few minutes ago for a fire. Numerous structures have been involved in this fire and crews continue to work between G Ave. and US-50 and then west of Buhler Road.&nbsp;___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 4:45 p.m. Hutchinson Fire says if you want to donate food or drinks for fire crews that you drop them off at the command center located on East 4th just west of the old Eaton building. The address is 3201 E. 4th.___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 4:29 p.m. Residents in the Burrton area who have had to evacuate due to the fire can find shelter at Burrton High School at 115 E. Lincoln in Burrton. Residents closer to Hutchinson can find shelter at the Hutchinson Salvation Army at 700 N. Walnut.__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 4:15 p.m. Crews are dealing with flare ups along 4th Avenue. Crews are working their way east of Buhler Rd. to make sure nothing become more of a problem. Power lines are reported down in the the 4th and Woodberry area along with trees blocking the road&nbsp; along Woodberry. Winds continues to gust above 45 MPH.__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 3:53 p.m. Fire has been reported near Buhler Rd and Avenue G. The aerial tanker was doing water drops there. Winds are now out of the northwest at 30 and gusty. RH is up to 47% and the temperature is down to 55*.___________________________________________BULLETIN - EAS ACTIVATION REQUESTEDFire WarningReno and Harvey counties Emergency ManagementRelayed by National Weather Service Wichita KS252 PM CST Sat Mar 5 2022At the request of Reno and Harvey county Emergency Management, a large wildfire is ongoing in eastern Reno into western Harvey counties in between the towns of Buhler and Burrton. People are being asked to evacuate if you live in the following areas:Reno County - Evacuate homes from 30th to U.S. Highway 50 from Buhler or Haven Road to Burmac Road. Harvey County - Immediate evacuation requested from U.S. Highway 50 to Northwest 48th from Woodbury to Sandhill Road___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 3:00 p.m. The fire continues to burn its way into Harvey County. A front is just west of Reno County and winds are not as strong but are reported out of the northwest behind it. Here is a photo of our radar picking up the smoke.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646514037402.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>___________________________________________UPDATE: AS of 2:48 p.m. Harvey County has ordered all residents living in an area from 1st to 48th Streets and from the county line east to Sand Hills Road to evacuate. Numerous structures have been involved this afternoon and crews continue to work to save others.&nbsp;___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 2:25 p.m. Several structures are being threatened or are involved with this fire. Residents from Buhler Road east to the county line and from 4th Avenue North are being asked to evacuate.&nbsp;___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 2:02 p.m. Adam Weishaar of Reno County Emergency Management says that a shelter is being set up at The Salvation Army in Hutchinson for those who are being evacuated.__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 1:55 p.m.&nbsp;Evacuations are being recommended for residents along 30th Avenue between Buhler and Rayl roads. If you want to evacuate and feel you can't, you are asked to call 911. Evacuations are also being ordered for residents along Avenue G between Buhler and Rayl.___________________________________________HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson fire crews along with crews from Rice, McPherson, Harvey and Sedgwick counties are fighting a major wildfire east of Hutchinson. Evacuations have been ordered for areas around the Palomino Development, residents around the old Cottonwood Hills golf course and all residents from Buhler Road to Rayl Road along 30th Avenue.If residents cannot evacuate, they are urged to call 911 for assistance.&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;

Wildfire east of Hutchinson Saturday brings extensive damage

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While the Highlands fire five years ago and some of the fires in Reno County two weeks ago were large and difficult to contain, Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer says the Cottonwood Complex fire was by far larger than anything previous. That combined with the constant wind changes on Saturday made things even more dangerous for fire crews.

“We really had three different head fires, three different fingers,” Beer said. Beer says the fire was so intense that it practically created its own weather system.

“From some of my experienced firefighters that were on the line, they said it looked like a thundercloud yesterday (Saturday) where smoke was going straight up and then basically had a top on it,” Beer said. “It was producing so much heat and wind by itself compared to what the conditions were here (in the city).”

Beer says the terrain in that area is some of the toughest in the county, which also made things difficult for fire crews. He also noted that crews try everything they can to save every structure, but unfortunately that did not happen on Saturday.

“They try so hard to save everybody's personal property,” Beer said. “Just think of your own home,&nbsp; you have all of your possessions, your family pictures, pictures of your kids or whatever . . . you can’t replace that stuff.”

Beer also noted that they ran into a number of problems with homes where steps had not been taken to keep the property more protected from wildfire.

“Some, personally, are just undefendable when you . . . don’t make a defensible space around your home if you’re going to live in the rural areas,” Beer said. “We ask people to maintain a 100 foot perimeter around their home at all times. That doesn’t mean you have to cut down every single tree, but if you have a whole grove of cedars 20 feet from your home and a fire starts, you’re going to have a problem.”&nbsp;

Beer says that is an educational thing that they have been pushing since day one, but some people choose not to and he says that is why they lost some homes.

Beer says they also found vehicles that were abandoned in the middle of the roads because residents trying to flee the blaze had their vehicles catch fire. He noted that there were at least three such incidents on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646590825512.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — While the Highlands fire five years ago and some of the fires in Reno County two weeks ago were large and difficult to contain, Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer says the Cottonwood Complex fire was by far larger than anything previous. That combined with the constant wind changes on Saturday made things even more dangerous for fire crews.“We really had three different head fires, three different fingers,” Beer said. Beer says the fire was so intense that it practically created its own weather system.“From some of my experienced firefighters that were on the line, they said it looked like a thundercloud yesterday (Saturday) where smoke was going straight up and then basically had a top on it,” Beer said. “It was producing so much heat and wind by itself compared to what the conditions were here (in the city).”Beer says the terrain in that area is some of the toughest in the county, which also made things difficult for fire crews. He also noted that crews try everything they can to save every structure, but unfortunately that did not happen on Saturday.“They try so hard to save everybody's personal property,” Beer said. “Just think of your own home,&nbsp; you have all of your possessions, your family pictures, pictures of your kids or whatever . . . you can’t replace that stuff.”Beer also noted that they ran into a number of problems with homes where steps had not been taken to keep the property more protected from wildfire.“Some, personally, are just undefendable when you . . . don’t make a defensible space around your home if you’re going to live in the rural areas,” Beer said. “We ask people to maintain a 100 foot perimeter around their home at all times. That doesn’t mean you have to cut down every single tree, but if you have a whole grove of cedars 20 feet from your home and a fire starts, you’re going to have a problem.”&nbsp;Beer says that is an educational thing that they have been pushing since day one, but some people choose not to and he says that is why they lost some homes.Beer says they also found vehicles that were abandoned in the middle of the roads because residents trying to flee the blaze had their vehicles catch fire. He noted that there were at least three such incidents on Saturday.<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.

Beer says Cottonwood Complex fire one of the toughest to fight


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
President Joe Biden called for an increase in Pell Grants in his 2022 State of the Union. Hutchinson Community College President Carter File believes an expansion may be worthwhile.

"The premiere flagship program in higher education to help students is the Pell Grant," File said. "I think that they could achieve what they're trying to achieve by increasing the Pell Grant eligibility, rather than having an entirely new program."

The maximum Federal Pell Grant award is $6,495 for the 2022–23 award year. 

"You are given a Pell Grant based upon what your EFC is, your Expected Family Contribution," File said. "If they would just expand the EFC, it would capture more community college students, because they would now fall under the Pell Grant guidelines."

File noted that the Promise Act in Kansas is a real help to students.

"One of the problems with Pell Grants is they look back on what you earned," File said. "If you want to stop working and go to college if you're in your mid-twenties to mid-thirties, you're earning enough money that you don't qualify for Pell so the first year, it would be difficult."

The Promise Act is a last dollar scholarship, so it fills in where financial aid doesn't for those with a family income of $100,000 or less.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
President Joe Biden called for an increase in Pell Grants in his 2022 State of the Union. Hutchinson Community College President Carter File believes an expansion may be worthwhile."The premiere flagship program in higher education to help students is the Pell Grant," File said. "I think that they could achieve what they're trying to achieve by increasing the Pell Grant eligibility, rather than having an entirely new program."The maximum Federal Pell Grant award is $6,495 for the 2022–23 award year. "You are given a Pell Grant based upon what your EFC is, your Expected Family Contribution," File said. "If they would just expand the EFC, it would capture more community college students, because they would now fall under the Pell Grant guidelines."File noted that the Promise Act in Kansas is a real help to students."One of the problems with Pell Grants is they look back on what you earned," File said. "If you want to stop working and go to college if you're in your mid-twenties to mid-thirties, you're earning enough money that you don't qualify for Pell so the first year, it would be difficult."The Promise Act is a last dollar scholarship, so it fills in where financial aid doesn't for those with a family income of $100,000 or less.

File: Pell Grant expansion could be good policy

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Musicians of all ages, genres and locales are invited to participate in the Kansas State Fair’s new battle of the bands event, “Rock the Fair.” The winner will receive a $2,000 cash prize and the chance to perform as an opening act for a 2022 Nex-Tech Grandstand act.

The field of contestants will be narrowed through three rounds of competition. In the first round, bands will submit videos of their performances – both a cover and an original song. Ten bands will be chosen by a panel of judges and a people’s choice online voting component from the open entries round.

The top 10 bands will battle in a semi-final round on Saturday, June 25, at the Kansas State Fairgrounds during the Fair, Food, and Tunes event. After judging and scoring in the semi-final round, the top five bands will face off on Friday, Sept. 9, during the fair at Nex-Tech Grandstand.

There is no cost to apply and interested groups are invited to submit their entries by April 1 at <a href="http://link.ss.ksf.ks.gov/ls/click?upn=IbAsoE20Oc2eSLwJ9NMhnk3z4iwkkBsjegsGzCHTDL9gXsLTTz-2Fi9aFWzYpA7qtaEzbdVZLs-2BjOVy2SbQrG4Qyo7-2BZf0afwXhIKCJ16bsqlOtM7UtuRkyhcff4Aiuc13quzFLXRZZWKrc31GTVU-2BOuyO2zB8M5qQ5y2b9QSvaxTYS-2FOmfZrTpONRIfn0hmHSHPUlxWvjbuOTOJpwSfmGNPVB1xLD00VRXCjMBM1J-2BdG17JKA4QWHLCxP0kYJPMEgoOw5MGXa8EvgyNXLVpw7T6aCUr64bSkh-2FfjFzpOA8MI-3DoS_m_bQt34-2Bek-2BcyJvedJqAHqbgenH5Rk-2FeZiZrj7lw1Zyj63safqRtbedMoM7MBZdt5giqswjuGOuyAXR6-2BpqNvX-2FiLYnJlpuwY58csoM7SnmkFGMEPe5t905DuC7gjDc8ojvg6ENEKL3DTPOdIpLHmjijc5F2RDAKQoj5bG35oO1o9N9JdqxZoAzYiLKOANgM45xnd7XFR1gmRUWc-2F-2B0prFwPVP0uWsIu20PvjpiRAZjBSbPDd9SZK5-2FxMwBoTsd6vV22qHdgSapCC54u6YaTM60O2fXFrq06fbXmxsh-2F5jXFhO4Jyxv3X9sxH59AZkgGQANiY3tn-2BWHkVVkk6zdmP9L4-2BRxCslb-2BqKKw0uWhnqMjcI5S50252cChKw3K04gX7XiFKBwOLtPA3wARXIJA6sV9avMOKBTOjXMqes0EccpWFV0gpLS7dincRbhk9eee4G0s2-2FNkST7L4ls8nuxZwIZA-3D-3D">kansasstatefair.com/p/about/rock-the-fair-battle-of-the-bands</a>.

Full rules and regulations can be found at <a href="http://link.ss.ksf.ks.gov/ls/click?upn=IbAsoE20Oc2eSLwJ9NMhnk3z4iwkkBsjegsGzCHTDL9gXsLTTz-2Fi9aFWzYpA7qtaEzbdVZLs-2BjOVy2SbQrG4Qyo7-2BZf0afwXhIKCJ16bsqlOtM7UtuRkyhcff4Aiuc13quzFLXRZZWKrc31GTVU-2BOuyO2zB8M5qQ5y2b9QSvaxTYS-2FOmfZrTpONRIfn0hmHSHPUlxWvjbuOTOJpwSfmGNPVB1xLD00VRXCjMBM1J-2BdG17JKA4QWHLCxP0kYJPMEgoOw5MGXa8EvgyNXLVpw7T6aCUr64bSkh-2FfjFzpOA8MI-3DaiIn_bQt34-2Bek-2BcyJvedJqAHqbgenH5Rk-2FeZiZrj7lw1Zyj63safqRtbedMoM7MBZdt5giqswjuGOuyAXR6-2BpqNvX-2FiLYnJlpuwY58csoM7SnmkFGMEPe5t905DuC7gjDc8ojvg6ENEKL3DTPOdIpLHmjijc5F2RDAKQoj5bG35oO1o9N9JdqxZoAzYiLKOANgM45xnd7XFR1gmRUWc-2F-2B0prFwPVP0uWsIu20PvjpiRAZjBSbPDd9SZK5-2FxMwBoTsd6vV22qHdgSapCC54u6YaTM60O2fXFrq06fbXmxsh-2F5jXFhO4Jyxv3X9sxH59AZkgGQAWuyqDolUkRAtg-2BZg38KzAsWk8M5L4GyD0LOq0T50nqPn6o5dpYVf9nGBnhx-2BKkuqiMwgFb7edDRtQFOmAHx6OHcTcFhiVh3-2BT97EbQ4yuflN-2BroQCg2xK7i9qB8QIAnkDg0SRMjIABNjsrMivL8CIQ-3D-3D">kansasstatefair.com/p/about/rock-the-fair-battle-of-the-bands</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586266027570.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Musicians of all ages, genres and locales are invited to participate in the Kansas State Fair’s new battle of the bands event, “Rock the Fair.” The winner will receive a $2,000 cash prize and the chance to perform as an opening act for a 2022 Nex-Tech Grandstand act.The field of contestants will be narrowed through three rounds of competition. In the first round, bands will submit videos of their performances – both a cover and an original song. Ten bands will be chosen by a panel of judges and a people’s choice online voting component from the open entries round.The top 10 bands will battle in a semi-final round on Saturday, June 25, at the Kansas State Fairgrounds during the Fair, Food, and Tunes event. After judging and scoring in the semi-final round, the top five bands will face off on Friday, Sept. 9, during the fair at Nex-Tech Grandstand.There is no cost to apply and interested groups are invited to submit their entries by April 1 at <a href="http://link.ss.ksf.ks.gov/ls/click?upn=IbAsoE20Oc2eSLwJ9NMhnk3z4iwkkBsjegsGzCHTDL9gXsLTTz-2Fi9aFWzYpA7qtaEzbdVZLs-2BjOVy2SbQrG4Qyo7-2BZf0afwXhIKCJ16bsqlOtM7UtuRkyhcff4Aiuc13quzFLXRZZWKrc31GTVU-2BOuyO2zB8M5qQ5y2b9QSvaxTYS-2FOmfZrTpONRIfn0hmHSHPUlxWvjbuOTOJpwSfmGNPVB1xLD00VRXCjMBM1J-2BdG17JKA4QWHLCxP0kYJPMEgoOw5MGXa8EvgyNXLVpw7T6aCUr64bSkh-2FfjFzpOA8MI-3DoS_m_bQt34-2Bek-2BcyJvedJqAHqbgenH5Rk-2FeZiZrj7lw1Zyj63safqRtbedMoM7MBZdt5giqswjuGOuyAXR6-2BpqNvX-2FiLYnJlpuwY58csoM7SnmkFGMEPe5t905DuC7gjDc8ojvg6ENEKL3DTPOdIpLHmjijc5F2RDAKQoj5bG35oO1o9N9JdqxZoAzYiLKOANgM45xnd7XFR1gmRUWc-2F-2B0prFwPVP0uWsIu20PvjpiRAZjBSbPDd9SZK5-2FxMwBoTsd6vV22qHdgSapCC54u6YaTM60O2fXFrq06fbXmxsh-2F5jXFhO4Jyxv3X9sxH59AZkgGQANiY3tn-2BWHkVVkk6zdmP9L4-2BRxCslb-2BqKKw0uWhnqMjcI5S50252cChKw3K04gX7XiFKBwOLtPA3wARXIJA6sV9avMOKBTOjXMqes0EccpWFV0gpLS7dincRbhk9eee4G0s2-2FNkST7L4ls8nuxZwIZA-3D-3D">kansasstatefair.com/p/about/rock-the-fair-battle-of-the-bands</a>.Full rules and regulations can be found at <a href="http://link.ss.ksf.ks.gov/ls/click?upn=IbAsoE20Oc2eSLwJ9NMhnk3z4iwkkBsjegsGzCHTDL9gXsLTTz-2Fi9aFWzYpA7qtaEzbdVZLs-2BjOVy2SbQrG4Qyo7-2BZf0afwXhIKCJ16bsqlOtM7UtuRkyhcff4Aiuc13quzFLXRZZWKrc31GTVU-2BOuyO2zB8M5qQ5y2b9QSvaxTYS-2FOmfZrTpONRIfn0hmHSHPUlxWvjbuOTOJpwSfmGNPVB1xLD00VRXCjMBM1J-2BdG17JKA4QWHLCxP0kYJPMEgoOw5MGXa8EvgyNXLVpw7T6aCUr64bSkh-2FfjFzpOA8MI-3DaiIn_bQt34-2Bek-2BcyJvedJqAHqbgenH5Rk-2FeZiZrj7lw1Zyj63safqRtbedMoM7MBZdt5giqswjuGOuyAXR6-2BpqNvX-2FiLYnJlpuwY58csoM7SnmkFGMEPe5t905DuC7gjDc8ojvg6ENEKL3DTPOdIpLHmjijc5F2RDAKQoj5bG35oO1o9N9JdqxZoAzYiLKOANgM45xnd7XFR1gmRUWc-2F-2B0prFwPVP0uWsIu20PvjpiRAZjBSbPDd9SZK5-2FxMwBoTsd6vV22qHdgSapCC54u6YaTM60O2fXFrq06fbXmxsh-2F5jXFhO4Jyxv3X9sxH59AZkgGQAWuyqDolUkRAtg-2BZg38KzAsWk8M5L4GyD0LOq0T50nqPn6o5dpYVf9nGBnhx-2BKkuqiMwgFb7edDRtQFOmAHx6OHcTcFhiVh3-2BT97EbQ4yuflN-2BroQCg2xK7i9qB8QIAnkDg0SRMjIABNjsrMivL8CIQ-3D-3D">kansasstatefair.com/p/about/rock-the-fair-battle-of-the-bands</a>.&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;

Battle of the Bands competition coming to Kansas State Fair

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners will consider a contract with an engineering firm to do the biennial bridge inspections for the county during Tuesday's agenda session.

The board will consider a contract with Kirkham Michael for a total of $32,882. The engineering firm will do the required KDOT inspections of 401 bridges in the county at a cost of roughly $82 per bridge. Funds for the inspections will come from the special bridge fund.&nbsp;

Also Tuesday, the board will take action on a services agreement with Ranson Financial to handle loan and grant applications with KDHE and USDA for the Yoder and HABIT sewer project, and go over several Public Works purchases for the year.

Tuesday's meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637337389800.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners will consider a contract with an engineering firm to do the biennial bridge inspections for the county during Tuesday's agenda session.The board will consider a contract with Kirkham Michael for a total of $32,882. The engineering firm will do the required KDOT inspections of 401 bridges in the county at a cost of roughly $82 per bridge. Funds for the inspections will come from the special bridge fund.&nbsp;Also Tuesday, the board will take action on a services agreement with Ranson Financial to handle loan and grant applications with KDHE and USDA for the Yoder and HABIT sewer project, and go over several Public Works purchases for the year.Tuesday's meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.<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.

Reno Co. Commission to take action on bridge inspection contract


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
All invited legislators were at the Hutchinson Chamber's legislative forum Saturday morning. A topic that appeared to have momentum from all the house members on the panel is reducing the food sales tax.

"I know you're going to see somewhere between $400 to $500 million in some sort of tax relief," said Republican Rep. Paul Waggoner. "The food sales tax, if they went all the way down to zero, would be around $400 million."

It's not clear if legislators will go that far, or if that would be the particular tax they choose to reduce.

"There's definitely forward momentum to do something," said Democratic Rep. Jason Probst. "There's a lot of discussion about which taxes and which tax reduction will do the most good for the state. There's some conversation about, instead of eliminating the food sales tax, could you do a small reduction in the overall tax rate, which I wouldn't mind either."

Probst's larger point was that the food sales tax is the most universal cut you can have, because everyone buys food. Nonetheless, Republican Rep. Michael Murphy noted that even if a rate reduction passes, that wouldn't take all the tax off of your food bill.

"If state sales goes to zero on food, there's still going to be sales tax on food," Murphy said. "Counties and cities still have sales tax on food. Keep that in mind, if we do take it to zero at the state level, don't be surprised when you look at your receipt."

The portion of state sales tax on food is 6.5%. The portion you pay above that is assessed by the city or county. 

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
All invited legislators were at the Hutchinson Chamber's legislative forum Saturday morning. A topic that appeared to have momentum from all the house members on the panel is reducing the food sales tax."I know you're going to see somewhere between $400 to $500 million in some sort of tax relief," said Republican Rep. Paul Waggoner. "The food sales tax, if they went all the way down to zero, would be around $400 million."It's not clear if legislators will go that far, or if that would be the particular tax they choose to reduce."There's definitely forward momentum to do something," said Democratic Rep. Jason Probst. "There's a lot of discussion about which taxes and which tax reduction will do the most good for the state. There's some conversation about, instead of eliminating the food sales tax, could you do a small reduction in the overall tax rate, which I wouldn't mind either."Probst's larger point was that the food sales tax is the most universal cut you can have, because everyone buys food. Nonetheless, Republican Rep. Michael Murphy noted that even if a rate reduction passes, that wouldn't take all the tax off of your food bill."If state sales goes to zero on food, there's still going to be sales tax on food," Murphy said. "Counties and cities still have sales tax on food. Keep that in mind, if we do take it to zero at the state level, don't be surprised when you look at your receipt."The portion of state sales tax on food is 6.5%. The portion you pay above that is assessed by the city or county.

Food sales tax reduction has support, down to zero not as certain

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department announced Friday that, in response to the declining COVID-19 numbers in Reno County, it will discontinue the COVID dashboard, effective Monday, March 7.&nbsp;

As of Friday, reported active cases are currently at 18 with 54.57% of residents having received at least one dose of the vaccine. County numbers can still be viewed on the KDHE dashboard at <a href="http://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas</a>. General COVID information is available on the Reno County website at <a href="http://www.renogov.org/health">www.renogov.org/health</a>.

“With the decline in COVID cases, we feel our time can be better spent on different educational initiatives,” Health Department Director Karla Nichols said. “The Community Health Assessment this April will also help us refocus our efforts where they’re needed the most.”

The health department still encourages vaccination as an important mitigation measure. All Reno County residents over the age of 5 are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination. Walk-ins are accepted for ages 12 and over, but appointments are required for ages 5-11 by calling 620-694-2900, ext. 6.

In order to increase community access, the health department has also expanded its operating hours:

Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department announced Friday that, in response to the declining COVID-19 numbers in Reno County, it will discontinue the COVID dashboard, effective Monday, March 7.&nbsp;As of Friday, reported active cases are currently at 18 with 54.57% of residents having received at least one dose of the vaccine. County numbers can still be viewed on the KDHE dashboard at <a href="http://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas</a>. General COVID information is available on the Reno County website at <a href="http://www.renogov.org/health">www.renogov.org/health</a>.“With the decline in COVID cases, we feel our time can be better spent on different educational initiatives,” Health Department Director Karla Nichols said. “The Community Health Assessment this April will also help us refocus our efforts where they’re needed the most.”The health department still encourages vaccination as an important mitigation measure. All Reno County residents over the age of 5 are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination. Walk-ins are accepted for ages 12 and over, but appointments are required for ages 5-11 by calling 620-694-2900, ext. 6.In order to increase community access, the health department has also expanded its operating hours:Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.Friday from 7:30 a.m. to noon.&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.

Reno Co. Health Department to close COVID dashboard

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Red Flag
Warning for extreme grassland fire danger, which is in effect
from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.&nbsp; 

Extreme Grassland Fire Danger is forecast.

Winds will be sustained from the southwest 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. Winds
  will shift to the west and northwest during the late afternoon
  and evening. Relative Humidity will be as low as 19 percent.&nbsp; 

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646479574928.jpeg" alt="RedFlagWarning03052022.JPG" />
 <figcaption>RedFlagWarning03052022.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Red Flag
Warning for extreme grassland fire danger, which is in effect
from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.&nbsp; Extreme Grassland Fire Danger is forecast.Winds will be sustained from the southwest 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. Winds
 will shift to the west and northwest during the late afternoon
 and evening. Relative Humidity will be as low as 19 percent.&nbsp; Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly
 and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not
 recommended. A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures
can contribute to extreme fire behavior.&nbsp;

Red Flag Warning in effect Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It wasn’t too long ago that business and industry looking to build wanted land. That then became property with utilities and rail spurs available so that they would be “shovel ready.”

Now that has been taken to another level as evidenced by the proposal to build a 50-thousand-square-foot building out at the Kansas Enterprise Industrial Park in Hutchinson. Chamber President Debra Teufel says it is a rapidly-changing trend in the competition to attract new business.

“That really was driven by data that we’ve been talking about for the past two years and what we’re seeing in the request for proposals,” Teufel said. “Those proposals typically come to us with a request for a certain size building, and over 70% of those have been looking for existing buildings.”

Teufel says more companies are looking to keep things closer to home with supply chain issues that have plagued business and industry over the past year.

“Manufacturers are really starting to take a closer look at their supply chains,” Teufel said. “A lot of that is coming . . . from overseas and they don’t have time to wait any longer. Some are starting to invest so they do have a second supply chain.”

Teufel says the building proposed in Hutchinson is a good start, but momentum needs to be watched carefully.

“There is definitely a balance there and that’s why I wouldn’t suggest a developer go out and overbuild,” Teufel said. “I think a 50,000-square-foot building is very marketable and very suitable to be absorbed by this market and also still keep up with the labor force issues.”

Teufel says potential companies simply want things to move faster and it's becoming a statewide evolution.

“We’re seeing more project activity than ever coming out of the leads from Topeka,” Teufel said. “Our Department of Commerce is out there across the country beating the drums for new projects. This has been a really eye-opening phenomenon lately where more of these RFP’s (request for proposal) say preference for an existing building or existing building required.”

Teufel says she’s confident that the proposed building will have a tenant before it is completed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645736466872.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — It wasn’t too long ago that business and industry looking to build wanted land. That then became property with utilities and rail spurs available so that they would be “shovel ready.”Now that has been taken to another level as evidenced by the proposal to build a 50-thousand-square-foot building out at the Kansas Enterprise Industrial Park in Hutchinson. Chamber President Debra Teufel says it is a rapidly-changing trend in the competition to attract new business.“That really was driven by data that we’ve been talking about for the past two years and what we’re seeing in the request for proposals,” Teufel said. “Those proposals typically come to us with a request for a certain size building, and over 70% of those have been looking for existing buildings.”Teufel says more companies are looking to keep things closer to home with supply chain issues that have plagued business and industry over the past year.“Manufacturers are really starting to take a closer look at their supply chains,” Teufel said. “A lot of that is coming . . . from overseas and they don’t have time to wait any longer. Some are starting to invest so they do have a second supply chain.”Teufel says the building proposed in Hutchinson is a good start, but momentum needs to be watched carefully.“There is definitely a balance there and that’s why I wouldn’t suggest a developer go out and overbuild,” Teufel said. “I think a 50,000-square-foot building is very marketable and very suitable to be absorbed by this market and also still keep up with the labor force issues.”Teufel says potential companies simply want things to move faster and it's becoming a statewide evolution.“We’re seeing more project activity than ever coming out of the leads from Topeka,” Teufel said. “Our Department of Commerce is out there across the country beating the drums for new projects. This has been a really eye-opening phenomenon lately where more of these RFP’s (request for proposal) say preference for an existing building or existing building required.”Teufel says she’s confident that the proposed building will have a tenant before it is completed.<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;

Teufel says trend is growing to have buildings ready for new business

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School is currently taking nominations for the Wall of Honor.

A nominee has to be a Hutchinson High School graduate and have graduated at least 10 years prior to the nomination. The nominee must have attained a high level of achievement in at least one of the following areas:

• Demonstrated that education is a life-long experience

Nominations are due April 1, 2022, and forms are available in the Hutchinson High School office, 1401 N. Severance, or online at <a href="https://hutchhighalumni.com/people/">https://hutchhighalumni.com/people/</a>. All nominations and questions may be sent to HHS c/o Marci Malashchuk or emailed to <a href="mailto:malashchuk.marci@usd308.com">malashchuk.marci@usd308.com</a>.

A selection committee composed of three students, three HHS teachers and three HHS Alumni Association members will pick three alumni to add to the wall. All nomination forms will be kept on-file and eligible for two years. Those three Wall of Honor alumni will be honored in a series of events surrounding the fall HHS homecoming football game on Oct. 7, 2022.

Each winner will receive a personal plaque and another plaque will be permanently mounted inside Hutchinson High School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School is currently taking nominations for the Wall of Honor.A nominee has to be a Hutchinson High School graduate and have graduated at least 10 years prior to the nomination. The nominee must have attained a high level of achievement in at least one of the following areas:• Personal and/or professional life• Community service• Demonstrated that education is a life-long experienceNominations are due April 1, 2022, and forms are available in the Hutchinson High School office, 1401 N. Severance, or online at <a href="https://hutchhighalumni.com/people/">https://hutchhighalumni.com/people/</a>. All nominations and questions may be sent to HHS c/o Marci Malashchuk or emailed to <a href="mailto:malashchuk.marci@usd308.com">malashchuk.marci@usd308.com</a>.A selection committee composed of three students, three HHS teachers and three HHS Alumni Association members will pick three alumni to add to the wall. All nomination forms will be kept on-file and eligible for two years. Those three Wall of Honor alumni will be honored in a series of events surrounding the fall HHS homecoming football game on Oct. 7, 2022.Each winner will receive a personal plaque and another plaque will be permanently mounted inside Hutchinson High School.<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;

HHS taking nominations for Wall of Honor

RUSH COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) Special Agents made multiple arrests connected to the January 2022 murder of 61-year-old Leslie Randa, according to a media release from the KBI.

Just before 8:30p.m. Friday, Jennifer Page Stipe, 48, and Darin Lee McBee, 58, both of 325 Marla Street in Great Bend, Kan. were arrested. 

Stipe was arrested on a requested charge of first degree murder. McBee was arrested on requested charges that include multiple felonies related to the murder. 

The arrest took place at&nbsp;Lowe’s Home Improvement parking lot at 1930 East 17th&nbsp;Ave. in Hutchinson. Authorities also located the missing 2006 GMC Envoy.&nbsp;On Jan. 21, a family member found Leslie Randa deceased in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

The Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;is expected to prosecute the case.

RUSH COUNTY– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Rush County Sheriff’s Office continue their search for a Black 2006 GMC Envoy in connection with the January 21 homicide of 61-year-old Leslie Randa of La Crosse.

 The vehicle has Kansas tag 463HAE&nbsp; and front grill guard is chrome. 

 The SUV was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the Wichita area. 

If anyone saw this SUV on January 11, or after, please contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.

A family member found Leslie Randa in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646497053839.png" alt="Stipe is being held in Ford Co." />
 <figcaption>Stipe is being held in Ford Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSH COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) Special Agents made multiple arrests connected to the January 2022 murder of 61-year-old Leslie Randa, according to a media release from the KBI.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646497116590.png" alt="McBee photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>McBee photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 8:30p.m. Friday, Jennifer Page Stipe, 48, and Darin Lee McBee, 58, both of 325 Marla Street in Great Bend, Kan. were arrested. Stipe was arrested on a requested charge of first degree murder. McBee was arrested on requested charges that include multiple felonies related to the murder. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643198011225.png" alt="Photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>The arrest took place at&nbsp;Lowe’s Home Improvement parking lot at 1930 East 17th&nbsp;Ave. in Hutchinson. Authorities also located the missing 2006 GMC Envoy.&nbsp;On Jan. 21, a family member found Leslie Randa deceased in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.The Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;is expected to prosecute the case.------------RUSH COUNTY– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Rush County Sheriff’s Office continue their search for a Black 2006 GMC Envoy in connection with the January 21 homicide of 61-year-old Leslie Randa of La Crosse. The vehicle has Kansas tag 463HAE&nbsp; and front grill guard is chrome. The SUV was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the Wichita area. If anyone saw this SUV on January 11, or after, please contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.A family member found Leslie Randa in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

KBI: 2 wanted for Kansas homicide arrested in Hutchinson

HARVEY COUNTY — The Harvey County Sheriff's Office has terminated the employment of two Detention Center deputies following an internal investigation into harassment claims, according to a media release.

On Feb. 18, sheriff's office administration opened an internal investigation following notification of allegations of harassment involving two detention deputies. They were placed on administrative leave.

The actions of the individuals were direct violations of sheriff's office employment policies. No criminal charges were involved. The incident is a personnel matter, and the sheriff's office will not release additional information about the individuals or the incident.

HARVEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged harassment involving deputies in Harvey County.

According to a social media report, the sheriff's office administration was made aware of alleged harassment claims against two Harvey County deputies. 

The sheriff's office began an internal investigation to gather more information. While the investigation is being conducted, the two deputies have been placed on administrative leave. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582804602109.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY — The Harvey County Sheriff's Office has terminated the employment of two Detention Center deputies following an internal investigation into harassment claims, according to a media release.On Feb. 18, sheriff's office administration opened an internal investigation following notification of allegations of harassment involving two detention deputies. They were placed on administrative leave.The actions of the individuals were direct violations of sheriff's office employment policies. No criminal charges were involved. The incident is a personnel matter, and the sheriff's office will not release additional information about the individuals or the incident.----------HARVEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged harassment involving deputies in Harvey County.According to a social media report, the sheriff's office administration was made aware of alleged harassment claims against two Harvey County deputies. The sheriff's office began an internal investigation to gather more information. While the investigation is being conducted, the two deputies have been placed on administrative leave.

Two Harvey Co. deputies fired for reported harassment

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department responded to the 600 Block of West 7th around 7:40 a.m. for a structure fire. Arriving crews found a single story residence with smoke showing from the windows.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Crews started working the fire but were met with heavy hoarding conditions. Crews eventually made their way inside and quickly extinguished the fire. The fire appeared to have been smoldering for a long period of&nbsp; time prior to being noticed by the reporting party.&nbsp; The home, which was unoccupied at the time, sustained heavy floor damage from the fire along with the hoarding conditions.

City inspectors were called out to address the building's condition and have since stated the home will have to be razed. No injuries were reported throughout the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.&nbsp;

<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/2022/3/1646414849782.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department responded to the 600 Block of West 7th around 7:40 a.m. for a structure fire. Arriving crews found a single story residence with smoke showing from the windows.&nbsp;&nbsp;Crews started working the fire but were met with heavy hoarding conditions. Crews eventually made their way inside and quickly extinguished the fire. The fire appeared to have been smoldering for a long period of&nbsp; time prior to being noticed by the reporting party.&nbsp; The home, which was unoccupied at the time, sustained heavy floor damage from the fire along with the hoarding conditions.City inspectors were called out to address the building's condition and have since stated the home will have to be razed. No injuries were reported throughout the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.&nbsp;<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;

HFD works structure fire Friday morning

Mc PHERSON, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court has denied a motion to withdraw a plea from a McPherson man convicted of murder in a case from 2012.

The state's highest court affirmed a decision from McPherson County District Court denying the motion from Dustin Smith to withdraw his plea on first degree murder. Smith was convicted in the May 2011 shooting death of 30-year-old Justin Milne whose body was found near Marion Reservoir. Smith was sentenced to life in prison without parole for 20 years.

Smith filed the motion in 2019 stating that he should be allowed to withdraw his plea because his attorney was ineffective in that he failed to "conduct a thorough investigation into his mental disease or defect." He claims that had counsel done so, there is a reasonable probability that Smith would have been found incompetent and would not have pled no contest.

The court ruled that Smith's motion was not filed within the one-year statutory time limit and denied the motion. The high court affirmed that decision.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646413966540.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mc PHERSON, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court has denied a motion to withdraw a plea from a McPherson man convicted of murder in a case from 2012.The state's highest court affirmed a decision from McPherson County District Court denying the motion from Dustin Smith to withdraw his plea on first degree murder. Smith was convicted in the May 2011 shooting death of 30-year-old Justin Milne whose body was found near Marion Reservoir. Smith was sentenced to life in prison without parole for 20 years.Smith filed the motion in 2019 stating that he should be allowed to withdraw his plea because his attorney was ineffective in that he failed to "conduct a thorough investigation into his mental disease or defect." He claims that had counsel done so, there is a reasonable probability that Smith would have been found incompetent and would not have pled no contest.The court ruled that Smith's motion was not filed within the one-year statutory time limit and denied the motion. The high court affirmed that decision.<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;

Supreme Court denies motion in McPherson murder conviction

SOUTH HUTCHINSON – The City of South Hutchinson had its bond rating upgraded to A-3 returning it to a “low risk” rating. The designation is important because it gives the city better interest rates when financing bond projects and other financial matters.

Moody’s Investor Service says the upgrade was due to better carry over balances which leaves the city with a three to six month operating reserve.&nbsp;

“Current and former members of the Council deserve credit for making tough decisions and implementing fiscal measures to curb the unsustainable levels of spending that were occurring,” City Manager Joseph Turner said.

South Hutchinson entered 2012 with $832,000 in the General Fund carry over balance and had $2,000,000 in expenditures. The reserve balance represented five months of coverage and the City had a rating of A2. By the end of 2017, the reserve balance had shrunk to just $161,000 on expenses of $2,143,000. Because the city had only enough revenue on hand to cover 27 days of General Fund expenses, the bond rating had been downgraded twice.

South Hutchinson will end 2021 with about $1.5 million in the General Fund carry over balance after all planned transfers are completed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646411427125.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON – The City of South Hutchinson had its bond rating upgraded to A-3 returning it to a “low risk” rating. The designation is important because it gives the city better interest rates when financing bond projects and other financial matters.Moody’s Investor Service says the upgrade was due to better carry over balances which leaves the city with a three to six month operating reserve.&nbsp;“Current and former members of the Council deserve credit for making tough decisions and implementing fiscal measures to curb the unsustainable levels of spending that were occurring,” City Manager Joseph Turner said.South Hutchinson entered 2012 with $832,000 in the General Fund carry over balance and had $2,000,000 in expenditures. The reserve balance represented five months of coverage and the City had a rating of A2. By the end of 2017, the reserve balance had shrunk to just $161,000 on expenses of $2,143,000. Because the city had only enough revenue on hand to cover 27 days of General Fund expenses, the bond rating had been downgraded twice.South Hutchinson will end 2021 with about $1.5 million in the General Fund carry over balance after all planned transfers are completed.<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 gets bond rating upgrade

PRATT, Kan. —Pratt Community College hosted 17 area high schools for their annual Academic Olympics event. The competition included several area high schools.

In division one, Pratt took first place followed by Trinity Catholic and Conway Springs. In division two Pretty Prairie and Cunningham tied for first place, Argonia was second and Kinsley was third.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646409838597.jpeg" alt="The Academic Olympic team from Trinity Catholic poses after their competition at Pratt Community College. The team finished in second place in Division 1" />
 <figcaption>The Academic Olympic team from Trinity Catholic poses after their competition at Pratt Community College. The team finished in second place in Division 1</figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT, Kan. —Pratt Community College hosted 17 area high schools for their annual Academic Olympics event. The competition included several area high schools.In division one, Pratt took first place followed by Trinity Catholic and Conway Springs. In division two Pretty Prairie and Cunningham tied for first place, Argonia was second and Kinsley was third.Students took written tests and submitted entries in a variety of categories, judged by PCC faculty and staff. The PCC automotive program offered a parts identification exercise, hosted by instructors and current students. Performing arts students took to the stage to deliver rehearsed pieces for judging in the Performing Arts department.&nbsp;The contest also included numerous works of art and photography for judging. Other area schools participating included Buhler, Kingman, Fairfield, and Stafford.<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.

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