Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy is continuing to expand its offerings to students throughout USD 308 and 12 other schools in Central Kansas.

"Starting next year, we'll have 22 career pathways total," said Travis Riebel, Director at HCTEA. "When we look at opportunities for students, the full training programs are shared programs with Hutchinson Community College. We have six particular programs, ranging from Automotive Mechanics, Automotive Collision Repair, Machine Technology, Building Trades and Welding. We also offer medical science training, such as CNA and CMA training."

The key to deciding what direction to go is centered in an individualized plan of study.

"With that, students are able to work with their teachers," Riebel said. "At the high school, we have our seminar teachers who are career advisors. They have conversations starting early on classes they take, career assessments, as well as any career research, college research, post-secondary, whichever that might be, to develop their individual plan as they go through high school and map out their road for post-secondary success, as well."

There are several additional areas that HCTEA will be offering courses in starting in 2022-2023.

"In the computer science realm, we're looking at some beginning coding classes for high school freshmen and sophomores through the project lead the way curriculum," Riebel said. "We're also introducing an agricultural education, to really introduce students to the food and fiber industry, with classes like intro to agriculture, agriscience, animal science and food science, as well as starting an FFA chapter at the school. Other new classes include, drones, unmanned aerial systems. Leanna Gleason, our communications and video broadcasting teacher, she has been incorporating drones into video broadcasting for years, but we're going to offer a course specifically to train students on that technology. It is our responsibility to recruit tomorrow's teachers, so we have a new class called teaching as a career."

They intend to have all of these pathways also include an internship component, so that students can see what they would like and not like about working in the field where they are being trained.

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By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy is continuing to expand its offerings to students throughout USD 308 and 12 other schools in Central Kansas."Starting next year, we'll have 22 career pathways total," said Travis Riebel, Director at HCTEA. "When we look at opportunities for students, the full training programs are shared programs with Hutchinson Community College. We have six particular programs, ranging from Automotive Mechanics, Automotive Collision Repair, Machine Technology, Building Trades and Welding. We also offer medical science training, such as CNA and CMA training."The key to deciding what direction to go is centered in an individualized plan of study."With that, students are able to work with their teachers," Riebel said. "At the high school, we have our seminar teachers who are career advisors. They have conversations starting early on classes they take, career assessments, as well as any career research, college research, post-secondary, whichever that might be, to develop their individual plan as they go through high school and map out their road for post-secondary success, as well."There are several additional areas that HCTEA will be offering courses in starting in 2022-2023."In the computer science realm, we're looking at some beginning coding classes for high school freshmen and sophomores through the project lead the way curriculum," Riebel said. "We're also introducing an agricultural education, to really introduce students to the food and fiber industry, with classes like intro to agriculture, agriscience, animal science and food science, as well as starting an FFA chapter at the school. Other new classes include, drones, unmanned aerial systems. Leanna Gleason, our communications and video broadcasting teacher, she has been incorporating drones into video broadcasting for years, but we're going to offer a course specifically to train students on that technology. It is our responsibility to recruit tomorrow's teachers, so we have a new class called teaching as a career."They intend to have all of these pathways also include an internship component, so that students can see what they would like and not like about working in the field where they are being trained.

Career and Technical Education continues to grow in USD 308

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— For the Hutchinson Fire Department, the past two weeks between structure fires and wildland fires were tough on personnel and equipment.&nbsp;

Fire Chief Steve Beer says millions of dollars of property value were saved with little dollar loss by HFD and mutual aid partners. Beer says he’s been in the fire service for 35 years. He says Hutchinson has some of the best firefighters around.&nbsp;

Beer said that all of this cannot be done without all the support from the community.&nbsp;

Beer released a statement on the support they received. Here is what he had to say:

“The overwhelming support in prayers for safety, food donations, and just uplifting messages do not go unnoticed. On behalf of all our members at HFD, we thank you. In order to be successful, many others assist. Our Fleet maintenance department keeps our equipment running 24/7. Our public works department brings in heavy equipment to save days of labor intensive work. Our IT and GIS departments keep up our computers and drones out in the field that are used to fight these fires. Our brothers and sisters in blue, HPD and the Sheriff's department are always quick to jump in on what’s needed. Our Reno County Emergency Manager and Kansas Forest Service partners are always in support of our planning and operations.&nbsp; Our new Rehab Response Team of retired firefighters and spouses ensure our firefighters are fed and taken care of. And lastly our 911 dispatch center and mutual aid partners support us on all ends. We thank you.”

<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/2022/2/1644279032256.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— For the Hutchinson Fire Department, the past two weeks between structure fires and wildland fires were tough on personnel and equipment.&nbsp;Fire Chief Steve Beer says millions of dollars of property value were saved with little dollar loss by HFD and mutual aid partners. Beer says he’s been in the fire service for 35 years. He says Hutchinson has some of the best firefighters around.&nbsp;Beer said that all of this cannot be done without all the support from the community.&nbsp;Beer released a statement on the support they received. Here is what he had to say:“The overwhelming support in prayers for safety, food donations, and just uplifting messages do not go unnoticed. On behalf of all our members at HFD, we thank you. In order to be successful, many others assist. Our Fleet maintenance department keeps our equipment running 24/7. Our public works department brings in heavy equipment to save days of labor intensive work. Our IT and GIS departments keep up our computers and drones out in the field that are used to fight these fires. Our brothers and sisters in blue, HPD and the Sheriff's department are always quick to jump in on what’s needed. Our Reno County Emergency Manager and Kansas Forest Service partners are always in support of our planning and operations.&nbsp; Our new Rehab Response Team of retired firefighters and spouses ensure our firefighters are fed and taken care of. And lastly our 911 dispatch center and mutual aid partners support us on all ends. We thank you.”<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;

Hutch Fire sends message thanking agencies and public for support

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Public Works announced that the intersection of K-14 near Yaggy Field and West 50th Avenue will be closed until further notice.

According to Public Works Director Don Brittain the dirt road was being used by traffic that normally would use 56th Avenue. That road is closed to allow work on the K-14 four lane project. After a bad accident at 50th and K-14 and with the amount of traffic using the road it was decided that the intersection will be closed until further notice.&nbsp;

Local traffic will have access on W. 50th from Yaggy Rd to K-14.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645110347339.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Public Works announced that the intersection of K-14 near Yaggy Field and West 50th Avenue will be closed until further notice.According to Public Works Director Don Brittain the dirt road was being used by traffic that normally would use 56th Avenue. That road is closed to allow work on the K-14 four lane project. After a bad accident at 50th and K-14 and with the amount of traffic using the road it was decided that the intersection will be closed until further notice.&nbsp;Local traffic will have access on W. 50th from Yaggy Rd to K-14.<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.

West 50th now closed at the K-14 intersection until further notice


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Area Transportation Fixed Routes will operate snow routes today, February 17 due to snow and icy street conditions. 

Snow Route maps are available on the Reno County website: Renogov.org under the Reno County Area Transit heading. 

Paratransit will operate normal service. For further information please call 620-694-2913.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Area Transportation Fixed Routes will operate snow routes today, February 17 due to snow and icy street conditions. Snow Route maps are available on the Reno County website: Renogov.org under the Reno County Area Transit heading. Paratransit will operate normal service. For further information please call 620-694-2913.

RCAT on snow routes Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Due to the weather and the closure of Hutchinson CC campus, community walking at the Hutchinson Sports Arena will be closed today, Thursday, February 17, 2022. A decision on Hutch Rec adult volleyball&nbsp; leagues and evening fitness classes will be made later today.

Also, Hutch Rec’s Senior Center at Elmdale Park will have a delayed opening of noon today.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Due to the weather and the closure of Hutchinson CC campus, community walking at the Hutchinson Sports Arena will be closed today, Thursday, February 17, 2022. A decision on Hutch Rec adult volleyball&nbsp; leagues and evening fitness classes will be made later today.Also, Hutch Rec’s Senior Center at Elmdale Park will have a delayed opening of noon today.

Hutch Rec adjusting for weather

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Planning Commission will take action on a request from a county resident for a conditional use permit for a new business when it meets Thursday afternoon.

Jesse Keim is asking for the CUP so he can start a cabinet and wood products business at 11203 S. Obee Rd., which is located a mile southeast of Yoder at the intersection of Obee and Greenfield roads.

The commission will hear a request from Jason West to rezone 20 acres of land for agriculture use. The land would then be added to an existing 40 acres adjacent to the proposed tract. The land is located on the southwest corner of East 4th Avenue and Mayfield Road just west of Hutchinson.

The Reno County Planning Commission meeting begins at 4:30 p.m. at the Reno County Public Works facility at 600 Scott Blvd. in South Hutchinson.

<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/2020/10/1602175085989.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Planning Commission will take action on a request from a county resident for a conditional use permit for a new business when it meets Thursday afternoon.Jesse Keim is asking for the CUP so he can start a cabinet and wood products business at 11203 S. Obee Rd., which is located a mile southeast of Yoder at the intersection of Obee and Greenfield roads.The commission will hear a request from Jason West to rezone 20 acres of land for agriculture use. The land would then be added to an existing 40 acres adjacent to the proposed tract. The land is located on the southwest corner of East 4th Avenue and Mayfield Road just west of Hutchinson.The Reno County Planning Commission meeting begins at 4:30 p.m. at the Reno County Public Works facility at 600 Scott Blvd. in South Hutchinson.<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. Planning Commission meets Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Strataca Underground Salt Museum always has a wide variety of events and another is coming up next month.

The Luck of the Miner is scheduled for March 13. The race is a 5K cross-country style run 650 feet below the earth's surface in the salt mine.&nbsp;

Participants will need to wear a helmet and bring a light. The museum recommends a bike helmet. Helmets will be subject to approval by staff. Every participant will receive a T-shirt and bib. The first 300 runners to sign up are guaranteed a medal. No one under the age of 8 may run and anyone ages 8-18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Along with the 5K, the Boys and Girls Club will host a free 1-mile Leprechaun Dash underground for children. To register for the fun run, reach out to Strataca or the Boys and Girls Club.

Visit the link below to register for the 5K today!

<a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Hutchinson/MineRun5K?fbclid=IwAR0qQp8pb7JdPh9kdyWFFalspmaugOz6c6aievys1tWmiFfh6TM190UdIPI">https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Hutchinson/MineRun5K</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583430947858.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Strataca Underground Salt Museum always has a wide variety of events and another is coming up next month.The Luck of the Miner is scheduled for March 13. The race is a 5K cross-country style run 650 feet below the earth's surface in the salt mine.&nbsp;Participants will need to wear a helmet and bring a light. The museum recommends a bike helmet. Helmets will be subject to approval by staff. Every participant will receive a T-shirt and bib. The first 300 runners to sign up are guaranteed a medal. No one under the age of 8 may run and anyone ages 8-18 must be accompanied by an adult.Along with the 5K, the Boys and Girls Club will host a free 1-mile Leprechaun Dash underground for children. To register for the fun run, reach out to Strataca or the Boys and Girls Club.Visit the link below to register for the 5K today!<a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Hutchinson/MineRun5K?fbclid=IwAR0qQp8pb7JdPh9kdyWFFalspmaugOz6c6aievys1tWmiFfh6TM190UdIPI">https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Hutchinson/MineRun5K</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.

Strataca to host 5K event

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Public Works has been out preparing for the snow this morning.&nbsp;

According to Director Don Brittain, the first road crew was called out around 3 a.m. Another crew will take over around late morning or early afternoon to continue with clearing roads.

The city of Hutchinson begins treating roads once precipitation starts to fall. The city did not want to pre-treat roads since rain was in the forecast.&nbsp;

As the snow falls, they will follow the usual plowing procedures for city streets.&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/2022/2/1643906333045.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Public Works has been out preparing for the snow this morning.&nbsp;According to Director Don Brittain, the first road crew was called out around 3 a.m. Another crew will take over around late morning or early afternoon to continue with clearing roads.The city of Hutchinson begins treating roads once precipitation starts to fall. The city did not want to pre-treat roads since rain was in the forecast.&nbsp;As the snow falls, they will follow the usual plowing procedures for city streets.&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;

Road crews ready to deal with weather

WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 6 PM

* WHAT...Mixed precipitation changing to snow. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 8 inches and ice accumulations of around one tenth of an inch. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph. Locally&nbsp;&nbsp;higher snow amounts are possible just west of the turnpike&nbsp;&nbsp;corridor.

* WHERE...Portions of Central, South Central and Southeast&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas.

* WHEN...From midnight tonight to 6 PM CST Thursday.

* IMPACTS...Plan on hazardous road conditions. Blowing and&nbsp;&nbsp;drifting snow could significantly reduce visibility, especially&nbsp;&nbsp;on Thursday. The hazardous wintry conditions will have the&nbsp;&nbsp;greatest impact on the Thursday morning commute. The combination&nbsp;&nbsp;of gusty winds and the weight of snow and ice could bring down&nbsp;&nbsp;tree branches and lead to scattered power outages.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Where snow occurs, snowfall rates of one to&nbsp; two inches per hour will be possible Thursday morning. The&nbsp; timing of the heaviest precipitation rates is expected from 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;am to noon Thursday.

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640865896440.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 6 PMCST THURSDAY...* WHAT...Mixed precipitation changing to snow. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 8 inches and ice accumulations of around one tenth of an inch. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph. Locally&nbsp;&nbsp;higher snow amounts are possible just west of the turnpike&nbsp;&nbsp;corridor.* WHERE...Portions of Central, South Central and Southeast&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas.* WHEN...From midnight tonight to 6 PM CST Thursday.* IMPACTS...Plan on hazardous road conditions. Blowing and&nbsp;&nbsp;drifting snow could significantly reduce visibility, especially&nbsp;&nbsp;on Thursday. The hazardous wintry conditions will have the&nbsp;&nbsp;greatest impact on the Thursday morning commute. The combination&nbsp;&nbsp;of gusty winds and the weight of snow and ice could bring down&nbsp;&nbsp;tree branches and lead to scattered power outages.* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Where snow occurs, snowfall rates of one to&nbsp; two inches per hour will be possible Thursday morning. The&nbsp; timing of the heaviest precipitation rates is expected from 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;am to noon Thursday.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from canbe obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Winter Storm Warning in effect until 6 p.m. Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Qualifying high school seniors are encouraged to apply for scholarships administered annually at Hutchinson Community Foundation.

The deadline to apply for the Denny Hart Family Athletic Scholarship, the Lois and Avory Johnson Scholarship for Reno County students, and the Hutchinson News Future Journalist Scholarship is noon March 18.

To learn more about the scholarships, their criteria and to apply, go <a href="http://bit.ly/3LPZD7x">here</a>. For questions, contact Program Officer Sarah Blake, 620-663-5293 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@hutchcf.org" target="_blank">sarah@hutchcf.org</a>.

Hutchinson Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire philanthropy, collaboration and innovative leadership to strengthen Reno County communities. Since 1989, the foundation has granted more than $92 million.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Qualifying high school seniors are encouraged to apply for scholarships administered annually at Hutchinson Community Foundation.The deadline to apply for the Denny Hart Family Athletic Scholarship, the Lois and Avory Johnson Scholarship for Reno County students, and the Hutchinson News Future Journalist Scholarship is noon March 18.To learn more about the scholarships, their criteria and to apply, go <a href="http://bit.ly/3LPZD7x">here</a>. For questions, contact Program Officer Sarah Blake, 620-663-5293 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@hutchcf.org" target="_blank">sarah@hutchcf.org</a>.Hutchinson Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire philanthropy, collaboration and innovative leadership to strengthen Reno County communities. Since 1989, the foundation has granted more than $92 million.

Application period open for Hutchinson Community Foundation scholarships


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Mark and Phoebe Davenport asked the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday if they could help with problems they are having with the elevator at the Leon Place Apartments downtown.

"The number one problem is the controller," Phoebe Davenport said. "It's a very, very old elevator. We were speaking with a guy from the elevator company just the other day and they are trying to give us these Band-Aid fixes to hobble along, basically, but, some of the bigger components really do need to be upgraded, in order for it to not keep on breaking down. Right now, it breaks down after about 15 minutes, so we have a tech come out, he gets it running again and within 15 or 20 minutes it's back down again. When the tenants are stuck in it, we have the Fire Department come out sometimes to let people out, although we're learning how to get them out ourselves, too, with our own staff. The controller, the motor, possibly, but the controller is the bigger ticket item of the two."

The City Council wasn't initially sure how they could help, though they do have the economic opportunity fund that they could potentially use.

"We have a fund that has been used for private interests before," said City Manager Jeff Cantrell. "It would not be out of the ordinary for the city to merge efforts with private to advance a project."

Given that the item wasn't on the agenda and so the council didn't know what was going to be asked, it's not clear whether they would consider some sort of a match, or a loan with favorable terms, or what, but the Davenports just wanted them to know there was a need.

"Our intention today was just to put the idea out there and see if there's any opportunity," Davenport said. "If you need any more information, Jeff, we're most certainly happy to get that information together. Whether the city partners with us on this or not, we're looking for a solution, so we're getting that information for ourselves."

Phoebe Davenport said they knew there was likely going to be an issue with the elevator at some point, but they were hoping to be farther along in the renovation process and have more occupancy of the apartments before having to deal with these major repairs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645028014582.jpeg" alt="Leon Place" />
 <figcaption>Leon Place</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Mark and Phoebe Davenport asked the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday if they could help with problems they are having with the elevator at the Leon Place Apartments downtown."The number one problem is the controller," Phoebe Davenport said. "It's a very, very old elevator. We were speaking with a guy from the elevator company just the other day and they are trying to give us these Band-Aid fixes to hobble along, basically, but, some of the bigger components really do need to be upgraded, in order for it to not keep on breaking down. Right now, it breaks down after about 15 minutes, so we have a tech come out, he gets it running again and within 15 or 20 minutes it's back down again. When the tenants are stuck in it, we have the Fire Department come out sometimes to let people out, although we're learning how to get them out ourselves, too, with our own staff. The controller, the motor, possibly, but the controller is the bigger ticket item of the two."The City Council wasn't initially sure how they could help, though they do have the economic opportunity fund that they could potentially use."We have a fund that has been used for private interests before," said City Manager Jeff Cantrell. "It would not be out of the ordinary for the city to merge efforts with private to advance a project."Given that the item wasn't on the agenda and so the council didn't know what was going to be asked, it's not clear whether they would consider some sort of a match, or a loan with favorable terms, or what, but the Davenports just wanted them to know there was a need."Our intention today was just to put the idea out there and see if there's any opportunity," Davenport said. "If you need any more information, Jeff, we're most certainly happy to get that information together. Whether the city partners with us on this or not, we're looking for a solution, so we're getting that information for ourselves."Phoebe Davenport said they knew there was likely going to be an issue with the elevator at some point, but they were hoping to be farther along in the renovation process and have more occupancy of the apartments before having to deal with these major repairs.

Davenports come to Hutch City Council for elevator help

HAVEN, Kan. — Haven USD 312 is holding an interview with its second candidate for superintendent throughout the day.

Christie Meyer is currently serving as principal&nbsp; in the USD 265 School District in Goddard. She has also served that school district as assistant principal and as a school teacher.

She is the second of four candidates the district is interviewing to replace Clark Wedel who will retire at the end of the school year.

A public reception for Meyer will be held from 3:30 until 4:30 p.m. at the Haven High School Library.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586361672308.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — Haven USD 312 is holding an interview with its second candidate for superintendent throughout the day.Christie Meyer is currently serving as principal&nbsp; in the USD 265 School District in Goddard. She has also served that school district as assistant principal and as a school teacher.She is the second of four candidates the district is interviewing to replace Clark Wedel who will retire at the end of the school year.A public reception for Meyer will be held from 3:30 until 4:30 p.m. at the Haven High School Library.&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.

Goddard principal is second superintendent candidate for Haven USD 312

HESSTON, Kan. — Hesston USD 460 is preparing to bring a facilities improvement bond issue to its patrons. Two informational meetings are set for Feb. 17th and 24th.

Both meetings begin at 7 p.m. in the Hesston High School Auditorium. Tours of the High School and Middle School will be offered this Thursday from 5-7 p.m.&nbsp;

The $33.5 million proposal would include a new two story wing at the high school to accommodate the 5th through 8th grades along with a fine arts addition to include a new auditorium and music rooms. Once that is done, the current middle school would be vacated.

Other construction would include another auxiliary gym, renovation of the main entry and administrative offices, and renovations of the current fine arts, shop and Pit Stop class rooms.&nbsp;

If all goes as planned, the matter would come up for a special election April 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645022939921.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HESSTON, Kan. — Hesston USD 460 is preparing to bring a facilities improvement bond issue to its patrons. Two informational meetings are set for Feb. 17th and 24th.Both meetings begin at 7 p.m. in the Hesston High School Auditorium. Tours of the High School and Middle School will be offered this Thursday from 5-7 p.m.&nbsp;The $33.5 million proposal would include a new two story wing at the high school to accommodate the 5th through 8th grades along with a fine arts addition to include a new auditorium and music rooms. Once that is done, the current middle school would be vacated.Other construction would include another auxiliary gym, renovation of the main entry and administrative offices, and renovations of the current fine arts, shop and Pit Stop class rooms.&nbsp;If all goes as planned, the matter would come up for a special election April 26.<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;

Hesston USD 460 to hold informational meetings for proposed bond project


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The sale of the Obee School property near the Hutchinson Airport appears to be working its way through the process, but there is still some work to be done with the FAA, because an extension to the building was actually technically built on city property set aside for the airport years ago.

"They survey the boundary of the airport, because it changes the footprint of the airport," said the airport's Pieter Miller. "There are environmental studies, because its on a landfill and a superfund site. I don't have the breakdown of the costs in front of me, but, it's a considerable amount of time. It has to go to the federal register, because it has to be publicly offered to say, okay, the government wants to sell this portion. It's no longer obligated under the federal obligations for grant assurances and all that kind of stuff. It's a process to sell a portion of an airport."

There are portions of land adjacent to the building that will still need to be leased by the eventual buyer from the city, so as to continue to give it proper protection for the airport's runway. Buhler USD 313 and the real estate agent representing them was asking for the city, the buyer and the school district to split the costs of the FAA required survey three ways. The City Council appeared to have a consensus to allow the transaction to go forward.

"We have some indication from the FAA this time that because there are other buildings, there are other structures in the area that we're attempting to sell, the resistance is not there," said City Attorney Paul Brown.

Closing on the transaction won't happen until all of the survey work is done. The hope is to get that taken care of later this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642628385503.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The sale of the Obee School property near the Hutchinson Airport appears to be working its way through the process, but there is still some work to be done with the FAA, because an extension to the building was actually technically built on city property set aside for the airport years ago."They survey the boundary of the airport, because it changes the footprint of the airport," said the airport's Pieter Miller. "There are environmental studies, because its on a landfill and a superfund site. I don't have the breakdown of the costs in front of me, but, it's a considerable amount of time. It has to go to the federal register, because it has to be publicly offered to say, okay, the government wants to sell this portion. It's no longer obligated under the federal obligations for grant assurances and all that kind of stuff. It's a process to sell a portion of an airport."There are portions of land adjacent to the building that will still need to be leased by the eventual buyer from the city, so as to continue to give it proper protection for the airport's runway. Buhler USD 313 and the real estate agent representing them was asking for the city, the buyer and the school district to split the costs of the FAA required survey three ways. The City Council appeared to have a consensus to allow the transaction to go forward."We have some indication from the FAA this time that because there are other buildings, there are other structures in the area that we're attempting to sell, the resistance is not there," said City Attorney Paul Brown.Closing on the transaction won't happen until all of the survey work is done. The hope is to get that taken care of later this year.

Hutch City Council agrees to help with Obee school sale requirements

A Winter Storm Watch will begin Wednesday evening. 

Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow and sleet accumulations of greater than four inches where precipitation is heaviest and ice accumulations of around one tenth of an inch are possible. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph.

The watch will be in effect for portions of central, south central and southeast Kansas from Wednesday evening through Thursday afternoon.

Plan on slippery road conditions. Blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility, especially on Thursday. The hazardous conditions will impact the Thursday morning and Thursday evening commutes. The combination of gusty winds and the weight of snow and ice could bring down tree branches and lead to scattered power outages.

Where snow occurs, snowfall rates of one inch per hour can be expected. The timing of the heaviest  precipitation rates is expected from 4 a.m. to noon Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640865912608.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Winter Storm Watch will begin Wednesday evening. Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow and sleet accumulations of greater than four inches where precipitation is heaviest and ice accumulations of around one tenth of an inch are possible. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph.The watch will be in effect for portions of central, south central and southeast Kansas from Wednesday evening through Thursday afternoon.Plan on slippery road conditions. Blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility, especially on Thursday. The hazardous conditions will impact the Thursday morning and Thursday evening commutes. The combination of gusty winds and the weight of snow and ice could bring down tree branches and lead to scattered power outages.Where snow occurs, snowfall rates of one inch per hour can be expected. The timing of the heaviest precipitation rates is expected from 4 a.m. to noon Thursday.

Winter storm will impact beginning Wed. evening

ROD ZOOK Hutch Post HUTCHINSON, Kan. —Hutchinson Fire crews worked throughout the afternoon and overnight Tuesday fighting two major brush fires east of the city. The first fire was called in around 23rd and Obee Road near the airport. The fire burned all the way to 30th before it was stopped.&nbsp;

While crews were taking care of that fire, another fire erupted at 30th and Willison near where last week's fire started. The fire quickly jumped over 30th and threatened a number of homes in the area. Fire crews were able to keep the fire from getting to any of the residences. The fire was stopped after about a half a mile north of 30th. 

Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer says the fire was substantial in size.

“We had flames 60 to 70 feet tall,” beer said. “We do have some structure damage on the Linksland Fire (near Prairie Dunes) and so we are working to assess that damage.”

Both the Linksland Fire and the other fire, now designated the Willison Fire, started from smoldering brush piles.&nbsp;

There were multiple brush piles that were burned two weeks ago Thursday when there was snow on the ground,” Beer said. “Even two weeks later, these brush piles kick up embers. When the relative humidity is at 20% and 40 mile per hour winds it’s just a recipe for disaster.”

Beer says farmers need to better tend to the debris piles to prevent what happened today and last week.

“These trees are anywhere from six inches to two feet in diameter and so these are deep seated piles of ash that are burning for months,” Beer said. “These piles have to be turned every other day if you're going to put these things out. Unfortunately, some landowners choose to just light them on fire and they just inspect them and don’t turn them and we get into these types of situations.”

Fortunately, there were no injuries but there has been some damage. Beer says an assessment of the damage will come later Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644954584096.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ROD ZOOK Hutch Post HUTCHINSON, Kan. —Hutchinson Fire crews worked throughout the afternoon and overnight Tuesday fighting two major brush fires east of the city. The first fire was called in around 23rd and Obee Road near the airport. The fire burned all the way to 30th before it was stopped.&nbsp;While crews were taking care of that fire, another fire erupted at 30th and Willison near where last week's fire started. The fire quickly jumped over 30th and threatened a number of homes in the area. Fire crews were able to keep the fire from getting to any of the residences. The fire was stopped after about a half a mile north of 30th. Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer says the fire was substantial in size.“We had flames 60 to 70 feet tall,” beer said. “We do have some structure damage on the Linksland Fire (near Prairie Dunes) and so we are working to assess that damage.”Both the Linksland Fire and the other fire, now designated the Willison Fire, started from smoldering brush piles.&nbsp;There were multiple brush piles that were burned two weeks ago Thursday when there was snow on the ground,” Beer said. “Even two weeks later, these brush piles kick up embers. When the relative humidity is at 20% and 40 mile per hour winds it’s just a recipe for disaster.”Beer says farmers need to better tend to the debris piles to prevent what happened today and last week.“These trees are anywhere from six inches to two feet in diameter and so these are deep seated piles of ash that are burning for months,” Beer said. “These piles have to be turned every other day if you're going to put these things out. Unfortunately, some landowners choose to just light them on fire and they just inspect them and don’t turn them and we get into these types of situations.”Fortunately, there were no injuries but there has been some damage. Beer says an assessment of the damage will come later Wednesday.<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.

Smoldering brush piles to blame for Tuesday's fires


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
In conjunction with the Healthcare Access Taskforce, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is conducting a Community Health Assessment (CHA). The CHA guides community organizations to what are the greatest needs facing Reno County residents and areas of focus regarding the health and well-being of the community.

For the first part of the assessment, the hospital is asking Reno County residents to participate in an online three question survey to identify the community’s top priorities. The questions are related to overall concerns, health concerns, and school concerns. 

In April, the second part of the CHA survey will take place with 210 randomly selected households for a more in-depth discussion regarding the issues the community at large identified in the first part of the survey.

The anonymous survey can be accessed now through Monday, February 21 at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Farcg.is%2FbiyiX%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1Pq2sUYNkm0jwY3BDCjuaD7lH9S_67rihjKXAVW2eOSu95A629HSmqlJA&amp;h=AT1F0zVOKmHdcg-Xzlczn7jHr_eK9YQdb3kxLlj5lln27Z6q5zNO41PVWJ1gs9iHFZd55ZHFVYHST4kY2x5H3kG9Zyvi3TMDU1vTljdep8-miyIqfzSM4Lzd3dq0xwxwWQ&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-y1.g-R&amp;c[0]=AT2eIodRZUMvhwTy8peeT7KmPLJX-Sw1eF0ZZuTp8xqxR9L-xcrf1yOx7bkQ-L8w_oAXiKcvV7t6UNBSmKd2NJIKVMoqZhLln7vEi72K4xVjQkMa90X5ELJAq4h6s8tvI-Ac9a23GEukr8cxNkaHTTB4qyS_-ypCCUieUGFjq564tyTXUS-EpCWZC7etdJaBki-_AFOs_a3x1ZC6JsDn9E1odg" target="_blank">https://arcg.is/biyiX</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583428390224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
In conjunction with the Healthcare Access Taskforce, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is conducting a Community Health Assessment (CHA). The CHA guides community organizations to what are the greatest needs facing Reno County residents and areas of focus regarding the health and well-being of the community.For the first part of the assessment, the hospital is asking Reno County residents to participate in an online three question survey to identify the community’s top priorities. The questions are related to overall concerns, health concerns, and school concerns. In April, the second part of the CHA survey will take place with 210 randomly selected households for a more in-depth discussion regarding the issues the community at large identified in the first part of the survey.The anonymous survey can be accessed now through Monday, February 21 at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Farcg.is%2FbiyiX%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1Pq2sUYNkm0jwY3BDCjuaD7lH9S_67rihjKXAVW2eOSu95A629HSmqlJA&amp;h=AT1F0zVOKmHdcg-Xzlczn7jHr_eK9YQdb3kxLlj5lln27Z6q5zNO41PVWJ1gs9iHFZd55ZHFVYHST4kY2x5H3kG9Zyvi3TMDU1vTljdep8-miyIqfzSM4Lzd3dq0xwxwWQ&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-y1.g-R&amp;c[0]=AT2eIodRZUMvhwTy8peeT7KmPLJX-Sw1eF0ZZuTp8xqxR9L-xcrf1yOx7bkQ-L8w_oAXiKcvV7t6UNBSmKd2NJIKVMoqZhLln7vEi72K4xVjQkMa90X5ELJAq4h6s8tvI-Ac9a23GEukr8cxNkaHTTB4qyS_-ypCCUieUGFjq564tyTXUS-EpCWZC7etdJaBki-_AFOs_a3x1ZC6JsDn9E1odg" target="_blank">https://arcg.is/biyiX</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutchinson Regional conducting Community Health Assessment


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Susie Bernard Gress and a group that included representatives from Hutch in Harmony came to the Hutchinson City Council Tuesday morning to talk about applying to have Bernards Restaurant at 2100 South Bonebrake declared a historic landmark and getting the building taken off the list for potential demolition. 

"We have received from the state an eligibility for Bernards Restaurant and Catering to be a historical landmark for Hutchinson, Kansas and the state of Kansas," Bernard said. "We met with Rick Anderson and his architect and crew from Topeka. They came down and took the time to do a site visit and went all through the building."

City Building Inspector Izzy Rivera said his whole goal is to see official plans.

"I still have to think of safety," Rivera said. "All I need is a set of plans from an architect showing how that's going to be temporarily secured. I understand that the process will take a long time. That's all well and good. I don't have a problem with that, because at that point, the building will not be deteriorating any further or at least not collapsing on itself."

Hutch in Harmony has offered their assistance in facilitating communication between Bernard and the city, so that Rivera knows how progress is going as the project continues. 

"I can't speak for the council," said Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho. "I think what we're looking for is forward movement. A plan of action, evidence that communication is occurring between the city and the planners. I think all of that will be good."

The council plans to get an update on the issue next month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644959233048.jpeg" alt="SusieBernard.JPG" />
 <figcaption>SusieBernard.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Susie Bernard Gress and a group that included representatives from Hutch in Harmony came to the Hutchinson City Council Tuesday morning to talk about applying to have Bernards Restaurant at 2100 South Bonebrake declared a historic landmark and getting the building taken off the list for potential demolition. "We have received from the state an eligibility for Bernards Restaurant and Catering to be a historical landmark for Hutchinson, Kansas and the state of Kansas," Bernard said. "We met with Rick Anderson and his architect and crew from Topeka. They came down and took the time to do a site visit and went all through the building."City Building Inspector Izzy Rivera said his whole goal is to see official plans."I still have to think of safety," Rivera said. "All I need is a set of plans from an architect showing how that's going to be temporarily secured. I understand that the process will take a long time. That's all well and good. I don't have a problem with that, because at that point, the building will not be deteriorating any further or at least not collapsing on itself."Hutch in Harmony has offered their assistance in facilitating communication between Bernard and the city, so that Rivera knows how progress is going as the project continues. "I can't speak for the council," said Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho. "I think what we're looking for is forward movement. A plan of action, evidence that communication is occurring between the city and the planners. I think all of that will be good."The council plans to get an update on the issue next month.

Susie Bernard Gress seeking historical designation for restaurant property

RICE COUNTY— A field survey for proposed replacement of three K-4 bridges in Rice County is scheduled to begin around Feb. 23.

The survey would be for&nbsp;replacement of Calf Creek Bridge, 1.40 miles east of the Barton County line; Calf Creek Drainage Bridge; 1.88 miles east of the Barton County line; and Little Cow Creek Bridge, 13.35 miles east of the Barton County line.

The approximate length of the survey is&nbsp;4,000&nbsp;feet; the survey will be&nbsp;based on the existing alignment. This field survey is to gather information needed for detailed design of the proposed improvements and is estimated to be completed by April 23.

A member of the survey crew first will contact property owners and/or tenants for permission to enter private property if needed. Survey activities will include use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor.

Michael Selley, P.S., Survey Project Manager, Bureau of Right of Way, will be in charge of this survey for the Kansas Department of Transportation.

RICE COUNTY— A field survey for proposed replacement of three K-4 bridges in Rice County is scheduled to begin around Feb. 23.The survey would be for&nbsp;replacement of Calf Creek Bridge, 1.40 miles east of the Barton County line; Calf Creek Drainage Bridge; 1.88 miles east of the Barton County line; and Little Cow Creek Bridge, 13.35 miles east of the Barton County line.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644956849040.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The approximate length of the survey is&nbsp;4,000&nbsp;feet; the survey will be&nbsp;based on the existing alignment. This field survey is to gather information needed for detailed design of the proposed improvements and is estimated to be completed by April 23.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644956857680.png" alt="RiceMap2.png" />
 <figcaption>RiceMap2.png</figcaption>
 </figure>A member of the survey crew first will contact property owners and/or tenants for permission to enter private property if needed. Survey activities will include use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644956865344.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Selley, P.S., Survey Project Manager, Bureau of Right of Way, will be in charge of this survey for the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Field survey for three K-4 bridges in Rice County to begin soon

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson fire and surrounding departments were kept busy with two wildfire east of the city. The first was called in around 2 p.m. in an area around E. 23rd and Obee Rd. Crews fought to contain the fire to an area south of 30th&nbsp; Avenue.

A second fire was then called in around 3:45 p.m. at 30th and Willison Rd. Fire crews had to go into structure saving mode as the fire threatened several residences in the area. Crews are spending the night putting out hot spots and monitoring the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So far there are no reports of how much damage has been done and there are no reports of any injuries. _________________________________________

UPDATE: As of 9:20 p.m. Crews continue to work both fires that started along 30th Avenue. They are being named the Linksland Fire which started near Prairie Dunes and the Willison Fire which started near 30th and Willison. The two fires were among seven called in on Tuesday but these two are the largest.

The cause of the first fire near Prairie Dunes is said to have started from a smoldering brush pile burned several weeks ago. It is similar to what started the Albright fire last week.

Back burning helped keep the fire from jumping 30th Ave and into another subdivision and the Prairie Dunes Golf Course area.&nbsp; Brush piles burned recently were also to blame for the fire located near Willison and 30th Ave. That fire did jump 30th Ave, but but was stopped short of 43rd Ave.&nbsp; Residents along 30th and Willison were asked to evacuate and fire crews went on building protection procedures to save homes in the area.

Crews will be out on Wednesday to conduct damage assessments in both fires.

__________________________________________

UPDATE: As of 5:45 p.m.&nbsp; Residents along E. 30th are being allowed back into their homes as crews continue to mop up hot spots in the areas of the two fires from this afternoon. However E 30th will remain closed from Obee Rd. to Buhler Rd at least through the evening hours due to the large number of trucks and fire equipment in the area.

UPDATE: As of 4:40 p.m.: East 30th Avenue is now closed just west of Lucille near the fire station so fire trucks can use the area for staging crews. It appears fire crews are stating to get the upper hand on both of the fires that have been burning through out the afternoon.

_________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 4:30 p.m. Rural Fire District Four in Pretty Prairie has been called out for mutual aid for a brush fire in Kingman County. Meanwhile crews are starting to get the upper hand on the two fires in Reno County. Still no reports of damage or injuries.

_________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 3:50 p.m.: Fire crews are working top evacuate residents around 30th and Willison as a fire continues in that area. Excavating equipment is being used to clear out areas and crews are back burning to try and slow the fire. Crews are now in structure protection in the area of 30th and Willison.&nbsp;

________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 3:40 p.m.: Fire crews are being moved to an area around 43rd and Mayfield for a fire.

_________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 3:20 p.m.: Fire crews have been called out to 9110 E 30th for a fire. This is near 30th and Willison.

UPDATE: As of 2:50:&nbsp;&nbsp;Crews have not been able to find anything near Nickerson and are being dispatched to other locations.

UPDATE: As of 2:45 p.m.: Reno County Sheriff deputies continue&nbsp; to evacuate residents as needed north of 30th Avenue.

_________________________________________

UPDATE: As of 2:30 p.m.&nbsp; RFD #3 is responding to a&nbsp; new brush fire reported at K-96 and Nickerson Boulevard as of 2:30 p.m.

___________________________________________

UPDATE: As of 2:00 p.m. USD 313 says&nbsp; buses will not run this afternoon and parent pick up can begin immediately.


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Fire is working on a large grassfire east of Hutchinson south of 30th and Obee. There also appears to be another grass fire east of Buhler between 82nd and 95th off of Woodberry.

 Currently Deputies are blocking traffic on 30th to give fire crews room to work and try to get this under control.  Deputies are working to try and notify/evacuate residents as they can.&nbsp;

USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman, no buses will run this afternoon and parent pick up can begin immediately.

The Kansas Forest Service airplane is fueled up and will be taking off as soon as needed.

Stay with Hutch Post for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644954584096.jpeg" alt="Fire Photo-Courtesy Grant Wray" />
 <figcaption>Fire Photo-Courtesy Grant Wray</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson fire and surrounding departments were kept busy with two wildfire east of the city. The first was called in around 2 p.m. in an area around E. 23rd and Obee Rd. Crews fought to contain the fire to an area south of 30th&nbsp; Avenue. A second fire was then called in around 3:45 p.m. at 30th and Willison Rd. Fire crews had to go into structure saving mode as the fire threatened several residences in the area. Crews are spending the night putting out hot spots and monitoring the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;So far there are no reports of how much damage has been done and there are no reports of any injuries. _________________________________________UPDATE: As of 9:20 p.m. Crews continue to work both fires that started along 30th Avenue. They are being named the Linksland Fire which started near Prairie Dunes and the Willison Fire which started near 30th and Willison. The two fires were among seven called in on Tuesday but these two are the largest.The cause of the first fire near Prairie Dunes is said to have started from a smoldering brush pile burned several weeks ago. It is similar to what started the Albright fire last week.Back burning helped keep the fire from jumping 30th Ave and into another subdivision and the Prairie Dunes Golf Course area.&nbsp; Brush piles burned recently were also to blame for the fire located near Willison and 30th Ave. That fire did jump 30th Ave, but but was stopped short of 43rd Ave.&nbsp; Residents along 30th and Willison were asked to evacuate and fire crews went on building protection procedures to save homes in the area. Crews will be out on Wednesday to conduct damage assessments in both fires.__________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 5:45 p.m.&nbsp; Residents along E. 30th are being allowed back into their homes as crews continue to mop up hot spots in the areas of the two fires from this afternoon. However E 30th will remain closed from Obee Rd. to Buhler Rd at least through the evening hours due to the large number of trucks and fire equipment in the area.________________________________________UPDATE: As of 4:40 p.m.: East 30th Avenue is now closed just west of Lucille near the fire station so fire trucks can use the area for staging crews. It appears fire crews are stating to get the upper hand on both of the fires that have been burning through out the afternoon._________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 4:30 p.m. Rural Fire District Four in Pretty Prairie has been called out for mutual aid for a brush fire in Kingman County. Meanwhile crews are starting to get the upper hand on the two fires in Reno County. Still no reports of damage or injuries._________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 3:50 p.m.: Fire crews are working top evacuate residents around 30th and Willison as a fire continues in that area. Excavating equipment is being used to clear out areas and crews are back burning to try and slow the fire. Crews are now in structure protection in the area of 30th and Willison.&nbsp;________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 3:40 p.m.: Fire crews are being moved to an area around 43rd and Mayfield for a fire._________________________________________ UPDATE: As of 3:20 p.m.: Fire crews have been called out to 9110 E 30th for a fire. This is near 30th and Willison.________________________________________UPDATE: As of 2:50:&nbsp;&nbsp;Crews have not been able to find anything near Nickerson and are being dispatched to other locations.________________________________________UPDATE: As of 2:45 p.m.: Reno County Sheriff deputies continue&nbsp; to evacuate residents as needed north of 30th Avenue._________________________________________UPDATE: As of 2:30 p.m.&nbsp; RFD #3 is responding to a&nbsp; new brush fire reported at K-96 and Nickerson Boulevard as of 2:30 p.m.___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 2:00 p.m. USD 313 says&nbsp; buses will not run this afternoon and parent pick up can begin immediately.___________________________________________
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Fire is working on a large grassfire east of Hutchinson south of 30th and Obee. There also appears to be another grass fire east of Buhler between 82nd and 95th off of Woodberry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644958084925.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Currently Deputies are blocking traffic on 30th to give fire crews room to work and try to get this under control. Deputies are working to try and notify/evacuate residents as they can.&nbsp;USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman, no buses will run this afternoon and parent pick up can begin immediately.The Kansas Forest Service airplane is fueled up and will be taking off as soon as needed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644957691209.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Stay with Hutch Post for more information.

Grass fires keep firefighters busy

MCPHERSON — McPherson Police officers detained an individual outside McPherson Middle School in connection with a welfare check.

At 10:20 am, on February 15, 2022, McPherson Police officers were dispatched to check on an individual experiencing a mental health crisis outside the McPherson Middle School. For the safety of Middle School and Washington Elementary School students and staff, the schools were put on a soft lock down. 

Officers physically detained the subject outside the Middle School; and then the schools were released from the lock down, which lasted 10 to 15 minutes. Unfortunately, false information regarding a Taser or Tasers being used to subdue the subject are circulating through the rumor mill. Officers did not deploy a Taser during this incident.

At approximately 10:40 a.m. Tuesday McPherson Middle School (MMS) was placed in a soft lock down due to a situation outside of the school building (involving a juvenile who was behaving irrationally). 

This was not a McPherson Middle School related incident, but the Middle School was in a lock down to ensure school safety. 

McPherson Police Department has responded to the situation and quickly brought the incident under control. 

Parents were notified just before 11 a.m. that the lockdown had been lifted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644944177228.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON — McPherson Police officers detained an individual outside McPherson Middle School in connection with a welfare check.At 10:20 am, on February 15, 2022, McPherson Police officers were dispatched to check on an individual experiencing a mental health crisis outside the McPherson Middle School. For the safety of Middle School and Washington Elementary School students and staff, the schools were put on a soft lock down. Officers physically detained the subject outside the Middle School; and then the schools were released from the lock down, which lasted 10 to 15 minutes. Unfortunately, false information regarding a Taser or Tasers being used to subdue the subject are circulating through the rumor mill. Officers did not deploy a Taser during this incident.___________________________________________At approximately 10:40 a.m. Tuesday McPherson Middle School (MMS) was placed in a soft lock down due to a situation outside of the school building (involving a juvenile who was behaving irrationally). This was not a McPherson Middle School related incident, but the Middle School was in a lock down to ensure school safety. McPherson Police Department has responded to the situation and quickly brought the incident under control. Parents were notified just before 11 a.m. that the lockdown had been lifted.

McPherson Middle School, Washington Elementary under soft lockdown Tuesday morning

The Hutchinson City Council approved the latest agreement between it and 125 of its employees on Tuesday.

"The City revised its after hours callback proposal to have that start at 5 p.m., rather than two hours after their shift," said HR director Tom Sanders. "Also, we proposed that the holiday callback pay actually be applied on the actual holiday, rather than the day the city recognized it."

The union vote was on Feb. 8 and it received a strong majority.

"The most noteworthy modified language in the contract was in Article 20," Sanders said. "There's a new Appendix E, which lists the job classifications that are subject to a 30-minute response time. Those are all Public Works jobs and they were kind of driven by the critical need to get back in time to address whatever issues are coming up. There were six employees that are kind of on the border of living outside that 30-minute response time. We agreed with the union to grandfather those folks."

For all the SEIU covered jobs, their wage scale movement is going to be 2%, with a merit matrix pool with 4% increases. The agreement was approved by the council unanimously.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642628385503.jpeg" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council approved the latest agreement between it and 125 of its employees on Tuesday."The City revised its after hours callback proposal to have that start at 5 p.m., rather than two hours after their shift," said HR director Tom Sanders. "Also, we proposed that the holiday callback pay actually be applied on the actual holiday, rather than the day the city recognized it."The union vote was on Feb. 8 and it received a strong majority."The most noteworthy modified language in the contract was in Article 20," Sanders said. "There's a new Appendix E, which lists the job classifications that are subject to a 30-minute response time. Those are all Public Works jobs and they were kind of driven by the critical need to get back in time to address whatever issues are coming up. There were six employees that are kind of on the border of living outside that 30-minute response time. We agreed with the union to grandfather those folks."For all the SEIU covered jobs, their wage scale movement is going to be 2%, with a merit matrix pool with 4% increases. The agreement was approved by the council unanimously.

Hutchinson city council approves union agreement

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education heard updates on the progress of Leader in Me programming during their Monday meeting.

Leader in Me is designed for K-12 students and fits in with the district’s two primary focuses for the Kansas Education Systems Accreditation, which are rigor and relevance. The curriculum was created by the same organization that developed 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The program is based on the See-Do-Get Cycle. When a person changes the way things are seen, it influences what the individual does and the results the person gets.

During Monday’s meeting, Krystal Young, Director of Special Programs and Redesign, presented progress on the Leader in Me programming. During the discussion Monday, Young presented the plan going forward for schools, and answered questions from board members on how individual schools will be utilizing the program in the coming years.

Because Monday’s meeting fell on Valentine’s Day, the members of the BOE were surprised with hand-made cards from students at Graber Elementary School.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643141234123.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education heard updates on the progress of Leader in Me programming during their Monday meeting.Leader in Me is designed for K-12 students and fits in with the district’s two primary focuses for the Kansas Education Systems Accreditation, which are rigor and relevance. The curriculum was created by the same organization that developed 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The program is based on the See-Do-Get Cycle. When a person changes the way things are seen, it influences what the individual does and the results the person gets.During Monday’s meeting, Krystal Young, Director of Special Programs and Redesign, presented progress on the Leader in Me programming. During the discussion Monday, Young presented the plan going forward for schools, and answered questions from board members on how individual schools will be utilizing the program in the coming years.Because Monday’s meeting fell on Valentine’s Day, the members of the BOE were surprised with hand-made cards from students at Graber Elementary School.&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.

USD 308 Board gets update on Leader in Me program

TURON, Kan. — Nothing was better than a day at the local swimming pool when you were young. The city of Turon is hoping to collect enough donations that residents in that area can swim for free.

The City Of Turon averages $3,000 in income each summer from admittance fees to their pool. This year, the city council has decided to ask for donations to raise that amount so everyone can swim for free. This is for anyone who wants to swim, not just Turon residents. Thanks to a few citizens and vendors, $1,150 has been donated so far.

Those wanting to make a donation can bring it to the city office, put it in the drop box or mail it to 501 E. Price, Turon KS 67583.&nbsp; Be sure to designate it as a donation for the pool.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627922236870.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TURON, Kan. — Nothing was better than a day at the local swimming pool when you were young. The city of Turon is hoping to collect enough donations that residents in that area can swim for free.The City Of Turon averages $3,000 in income each summer from admittance fees to their pool. This year, the city council has decided to ask for donations to raise that amount so everyone can swim for free. This is for anyone who wants to swim, not just Turon residents. Thanks to a few citizens and vendors, $1,150 has been donated so far.Those wanting to make a donation can bring it to the city office, put it in the drop box or mail it to 501 E. Price, Turon KS 67583.&nbsp; Be sure to designate it as a donation for the pool.<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.

City of Turon to seek donations for free summer swimming

HAVEN, Kan. — Dorsey Burgess is the first of four finalists to interview for the Haven USD 312 superintendent position.

Burgess is currently serving as the superintendent of USD 509 in South Haven. Prior to that Burgess served as principal for 15 years at Circle High School in Towanda.&nbsp;

A public reception for Burgess will be held from 3:30 until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Haven High School Library.

Burgess and the other candidates will also meet with administrators and directors along with a tour of the facilities. The day will end with a formal interview with the board.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586361672308.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — Dorsey Burgess is the first of four finalists to interview for the Haven USD 312 superintendent position.Burgess is currently serving as the superintendent of USD 509 in South Haven. Prior to that Burgess served as principal for 15 years at Circle High School in Towanda.&nbsp;A public reception for Burgess will be held from 3:30 until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Haven High School Library.Burgess and the other candidates will also meet with administrators and directors along with a tour of the facilities. The day will end with a formal interview with the board.<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;