UPDATE: As OF 11 a.m.&nbsp;The Hutchinson Fire Department will be conducting controlled burns along 30th and Buhler Rd this morning into the afternoon. For this effort the Sheriffs Office will be closing 30th Ave. from Willison Rd to Buhler Rd. Buhler Rd will be closed between 30th and 4th Ave.&nbsp;&nbsp;

_________________________________________

BUHLER, Kan. — As of 0800 Wednesday, the fire east of Hutchinson, now named the Albright fire, is 90% contained.

The fire started in Buhler's fire district and spread quickly into Hutchinson's Fire District #2. Fire ran approximately 2 miles from 30th to 4th between Willison and Buhler Road. Numerous homes were saved by firefighters, and limited damage is expected from the assessment.&nbsp;

Crews had a good night on the fire, containing numerous hot spots and working in areas of concern. All roads have been opened for the morning commute. This includes Willison, Buhler, and East 4th. Please note that some roads may close again later this morning due to burn out operations.

Now that it is light, assessment can continue on damage and lost property as well as property saved. That information will be collected along with the number of acres burned.

The burn out operations could begin as soon as mid-morning, as a wind shift is expected to move from the northwest to the southwest in the coming days. There is still some concern about fire spreading to adjacent areas.

Fire Marshal Mike Cain's initial assessment indicates that the property owner where the fire started burned over 75 brush piles last Thursday when there was still snow on the ground. Embers from those brush piles started adjacent vegetation on fire.

Hutchinson Fire wanted to thank Hutchinson Public Works Department, Reno County Sheriff's Office, Reno County Emergency Management, Kansas Forest Service, Evergy, 911 Dispatch Center, Rice County, Sedgwick County, Reno County Task Force, South Hutchinson, Halstead, Burrton, Inman, McPherson and Newton Fire Departments for their assistance.

___________________________________________

A major wildfire broke out east of Hutchinson Tuesday afternoon. According to Reno County Dispatch, the fire was called out around 1:30 p.m. near 30th and Willison. The fire quickly raced south threatening many homes around the 4th and Willison area.&nbsp;

According to Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer, the fire threatened several properties, but no homes were destroyed. Beer said mutual aid, including resources in place with the help of the Kansas Forestry Service, were prepared to deal with the dry windy conditions that were in place. The Kansas Forest Service used an aerial plane to help fight the fire.

Crews spent the night patrolling the area from 30th to 4th and from Willison to Buhler Road putting out numerous hot spots.&nbsp;

No word yet on how much damage was done, nor were there any reports of injuries. Buhler schools that had students living in the fire area held them at schools until parents or guardians could pick them up. Many of the usual bus routes were closed due to the fire.

Volunteers provided bulldozers to help cut fire lines and a semi tanker full of water was put in place to refill fire trucks.&nbsp;

UPDATE: As of 7:30 p.m. Many of the outside agencies are being released as the fire is being brought under control. Crews are still working to put out a number of hot spots and other crews are patrolling the entire area from 30th to 4th avenues and from Buhler to Willison roads. Residents are being allowed to return to their homes. 4th Avenue from Kent to Buhler Road is closed as is Willison from 30th to 4th avenues.

UPDATE: As of 6:20 p.m. Crews continue to work to put out hot spots. The Reno County Sheriff's Department says 4th Avenue from Willison to Buhler Road is closed with barricades and deputies. Willison Road is closed with barricades from 4th to 30th. The Hidden Meadows subdivision is still closed at this time but all other residents can return to their home. If you do not live in the area DO NOT go around the barricades. Buhler Road is now open to all traffic.

__________________________________________

UPDATE: As of 6:00 p.m. Fire Chief Steven Beer said about an hour ago that the fire is about 60% contained. Crews continue to move from one area to another fighting fires with most in the 4th and Willison area.

UPDATE: As of 5:20 p.m. The Kansas Forest Service released an aerial tanker from the airport to help with the fire. Crews appear to be getting an upper hand on the fire, but are still dealing with a large number of trees in the area of 4th and Willison. A rehab station has been set up for firefighters at 4th and Willison.

UPDATE: As of 4:30 p.m. Crews are still working hard around the 4th and Willison area to protect a large number of structures in the area. Below is a map of the area of concern.&nbsp;

UPDATE: As of 4:00 p.m. Fire crews are battling the usual obstructions with this fire including the sandy soil and the large number of red cedar trees in the area. Current conditions: Temp 62, winds north at 15-20 and relative humidity is at 16%.

UPDATE: As of 3:50 p.m.&nbsp;A semi full of water is being sent to an area that fire crews are working hard to save several homes and structures north of 4th and Willison. Still no word of damage or injuries.

UPDATE: As of 3:35 p.m. Fire crews are working to protect a number of homes and buildings between 4th and 17th and Buhler Road and Willison. Crews are being warned not to get stuck in the sandy conditions as they work to save the structures.

UPDATE : As of 3:20&nbsp;We are getting word that there are evacuations going on in connection with this fire. We do not have any word on injuries or damage at this time. Sedgwick Co. has also responded along with other surrounding agencies.

BUHLER, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire crews are working a brush fire near Buhler. The fire was called in around 1:30 p.m. and is located between 4th to 30th and from Buhler Road to Willison. Because of this, many rural roads in the area are closed at this time.&nbsp;

Buhler USD 313 says any students that would normally be dropped off by buses in those areas will need to be picked up from their school.&nbsp;

If you are unsure about your child's status, contact your school.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644370559136.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: As OF 11 a.m.&nbsp;The Hutchinson Fire Department will be conducting controlled burns along 30th and Buhler Rd this morning into the afternoon. For this effort the Sheriffs Office will be closing 30th Ave. from Willison Rd to Buhler Rd. Buhler Rd will be closed between 30th and 4th Ave.&nbsp;&nbsp;_________________________________________BUHLER, Kan. — As of 0800 Wednesday, the fire east of Hutchinson, now named the Albright fire, is 90% contained.The fire started in Buhler's fire district and spread quickly into Hutchinson's Fire District #2. Fire ran approximately 2 miles from 30th to 4th between Willison and Buhler Road. Numerous homes were saved by firefighters, and limited damage is expected from the assessment.&nbsp;Crews had a good night on the fire, containing numerous hot spots and working in areas of concern. All roads have been opened for the morning commute. This includes Willison, Buhler, and East 4th. Please note that some roads may close again later this morning due to burn out operations.Now that it is light, assessment can continue on damage and lost property as well as property saved. That information will be collected along with the number of acres burned.The burn out operations could begin as soon as mid-morning, as a wind shift is expected to move from the northwest to the southwest in the coming days. There is still some concern about fire spreading to adjacent areas.Fire Marshal Mike Cain's initial assessment indicates that the property owner where the fire started burned over 75 brush piles last Thursday when there was still snow on the ground. Embers from those brush piles started adjacent vegetation on fire.Hutchinson Fire wanted to thank Hutchinson Public Works Department, Reno County Sheriff's Office, Reno County Emergency Management, Kansas Forest Service, Evergy, 911 Dispatch Center, Rice County, Sedgwick County, Reno County Task Force, South Hutchinson, Halstead, Burrton, Inman, McPherson and Newton Fire Departments for their assistance.___________________________________________A major wildfire broke out east of Hutchinson Tuesday afternoon. According to Reno County Dispatch, the fire was called out around 1:30 p.m. near 30th and Willison. The fire quickly raced south threatening many homes around the 4th and Willison area.&nbsp;According to Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer, the fire threatened several properties, but no homes were destroyed. Beer said mutual aid, including resources in place with the help of the Kansas Forestry Service, were prepared to deal with the dry windy conditions that were in place. The Kansas Forest Service used an aerial plane to help fight the fire.Crews spent the night patrolling the area from 30th to 4th and from Willison to Buhler Road putting out numerous hot spots.&nbsp;No word yet on how much damage was done, nor were there any reports of injuries. Buhler schools that had students living in the fire area held them at schools until parents or guardians could pick them up. Many of the usual bus routes were closed due to the fire.Volunteers provided bulldozers to help cut fire lines and a semi tanker full of water was put in place to refill fire trucks.&nbsp;___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 7:30 p.m. Many of the outside agencies are being released as the fire is being brought under control. Crews are still working to put out a number of hot spots and other crews are patrolling the entire area from 30th to 4th avenues and from Buhler to Willison roads. Residents are being allowed to return to their homes. 4th Avenue from Kent to Buhler Road is closed as is Willison from 30th to 4th avenues._________________________________________UPDATE: As of 6:20 p.m. Crews continue to work to put out hot spots. The Reno County Sheriff's Department says 4th Avenue from Willison to Buhler Road is closed with barricades and deputies. Willison Road is closed with barricades from 4th to 30th. The Hidden Meadows subdivision is still closed at this time but all other residents can return to their home. If you do not live in the area DO NOT go around the barricades. Buhler Road is now open to all traffic.__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 6:00 p.m. Fire Chief Steven Beer said about an hour ago that the fire is about 60% contained. Crews continue to move from one area to another fighting fires with most in the 4th and Willison area.___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 5:20 p.m. The Kansas Forest Service released an aerial tanker from the airport to help with the fire. Crews appear to be getting an upper hand on the fire, but are still dealing with a large number of trees in the area of 4th and Willison. A rehab station has been set up for firefighters at 4th and Willison.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644362622016.jpeg" alt="PHOTO: Kansas Forest Service" />
 <figcaption>PHOTO: Kansas Forest Service</figcaption>
 </figure>___________________________________________UPDATE: As of 4:30 p.m. Crews are still working hard around the 4th and Willison area to protect a large number of structures in the area. Below is a map of the area of concern.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644359319864.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>__________________________________________UPDATE: As of 4:00 p.m. Fire crews are battling the usual obstructions with this fire including the sandy soil and the large number of red cedar trees in the area. Current conditions: Temp 62, winds north at 15-20 and relative humidity is at 16%._________________________________________UPDATE: As of 3:50 p.m.&nbsp;A semi full of water is being sent to an area that fire crews are working hard to save several homes and structures north of 4th and Willison. Still no word of damage or injuries.________________________________________UPDATE: As of 3:35 p.m. Fire crews are working to protect a number of homes and buildings between 4th and 17th and Buhler Road and Willison. Crews are being warned not to get stuck in the sandy conditions as they work to save the structures._________________________________________UPDATE : As of 3:20&nbsp;We are getting word that there are evacuations going on in connection with this fire. We do not have any word on injuries or damage at this time. Sedgwick Co. has also responded along with other surrounding agencies.__________________________________________BUHLER, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire crews are working a brush fire near Buhler. The fire was called in around 1:30 p.m. and is located between 4th to 30th and from Buhler Road to Willison. Because of this, many rural roads in the area are closed at this time.&nbsp;Buhler USD 313 says any students that would normally be dropped off by buses in those areas will need to be picked up from their school.&nbsp;If you are unsure about your child's status, contact your school.&nbsp;

Burnout work to continue today to mitigate Albright fire

HAVEN, Kan. — Haven USD 312 will recognize 12 former employees as a part of the District's Distinguished Service Program later this month.&nbsp;

The event, which started back in 2018, will be held Tuesday, Feb. 15, between the varsity basketball games.

The list of 12 who will be honored includes Susan Hill, who has been with the district for 59 years, and Don Etchison, who has been with USD 312 for 48 years.&nbsp;

The recognition is given to former employees who have worked for more than 25 years within the district and is open to all teachers and staff.

<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/2020/6/1591132145254.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — Haven USD 312 will recognize 12 former employees as a part of the District's Distinguished Service Program later this month.&nbsp;The event, which started back in 2018, will be held Tuesday, Feb. 15, between the varsity basketball games.The list of 12 who will be honored includes Susan Hill, who has been with the district for 59 years, and Don Etchison, who has been with USD 312 for 48 years.&nbsp;The rest of the honorees include:Linda Gingerich, 25 years;Randy Mathias, 26 years;Glen Schulthees, 27 years;Karen Boston, 27 years;&nbsp;Vicki Haines, 33 years;Brian Boston, 34 years;June Juhnke, 34 years;Renetta Baxter, 35 years;Annette Mathisa, 36 years; andRobbie Hays, 37 years.The recognition is given to former employees who have worked for more than 25 years within the district and is open to all teachers and staff.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Haven USD 312 to recognize employees for service

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Fellow conservative Republicans are rallying behind a Kansas physician-legislator being investigated by the state medical board. They did so Tuesday by advancing state Sen. Mark Steffen's measures to protect doctors pursuing alternative treatments for COVID-19 and to weaken state childhood vaccination requirements. 

Steffen is a member of the Senate's health committee and persuaded it to approve a requirement for pharmacists to fill prescriptions of ivermectin to treat COVID-19. 

He also persuaded the committee to add a proposal to make it easy for parents to claim religious exemptions from childhood immunization requirements. The bill goes next to the full Senate. Steffen told a Senate committee he's under investigation for statements about COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616693710665.png" alt="&nbsp;Sen. Mark Steffen, a Reno County Republican,&nbsp; photo by Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Sen. Mark Steffen, a Reno County Republican,&nbsp; photo by Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Fellow conservative Republicans are rallying behind a Kansas physician-legislator being investigated by the state medical board. They did so Tuesday by advancing state Sen. Mark Steffen's measures to protect doctors pursuing alternative treatments for COVID-19 and to weaken state childhood vaccination requirements. Steffen is a member of the Senate's health committee and persuaded it to approve a requirement for pharmacists to fill prescriptions of ivermectin to treat COVID-19. He also persuaded the committee to add a proposal to make it easy for parents to claim religious exemptions from childhood immunization requirements. The bill goes next to the full Senate. Steffen told a Senate committee he's under investigation for statements about COVID-19.

Anti-vax, pro-ivermectin measures advance in Kansas Senate

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The granddaughter of one of the great explorers was the first speaker of the 2022 Dillon Lecture Series.

But Céline Cousteau, whose grandfather Jacques Cousteau brought adventure to the television world in the '60s and '70s, has a very different approach and outlook to all of her travels. Cousteau spoke about exploration and the impact it has had on the world both good and bad. Cousteau says, while she did get to be a part of her grandfather’s adventures, she had the opportunity to go her own direction.

“Obviously I grew up in a family of environmentalists and explorers, so that influenced my life at home and just the way I see the world,” Cousteau said. “But my family never forced me into doing what I do now.”

Cousteau’s travels have taken her to some of the most remote areas of the world, including numerous trips to Brazil. She says people all around the world thrive for the same basic wants and needs.

“The basic needs you know are food, water, lodging and love, I don’t think we give enough value to that,” Cousteau said. “A sense of belonging is also something we’re searching for and I think in this modern world we have moved somewhat away from that. Not just the nuclear family, but a sense of tribe and a sense of community.”

Cousteau says that each place she visits has a special feel and look, offering her first look at a Kansas sunset and how spectacular it was.

“I think it’s just over the course of time, you see that same thing over and over again and you lose appreciation for it because it becomes commonplace,” Cousteau said.” I lived in the northeast United States for a long time and it just seemed to me that nature was bountiful, it was always beautiful and it was always out there. Then I moved to New Mexico . . . boy, what’s here? Then I saw the sun set, then the rocks changed colors every 10 minutes. So I think it’s just a question of perception.”

As far as exploration and the cost and impact it has had on indigenous people and the environment, Cousteau says that since her grandfather's incredible explorations, more knowledge and planning goes into any trip she takes.

“You have to go back to the 1950s when we were starting to take off, we didn’t have a lot of hindsight as to what the impact was,” Cousteau said. “Through the years, what was being documented is an understanding that our going anywhere has an impact from the act of going there to being there. We now have much more information on how to do that thoughtfully, or at all.”

During her presentation, Cousteau shared stories of the places and people she’s met on her vast explorations. She says she has hopes of fostering cross-cultural communication and connecting everyone’s collective experience as one human tribe.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644353972062.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The granddaughter of one of the great explorers was the first speaker of the 2022 Dillon Lecture Series.But Céline Cousteau, whose grandfather Jacques Cousteau brought adventure to the television world in the '60s and '70s, has a very different approach and outlook to all of her travels. Cousteau spoke about exploration and the impact it has had on the world both good and bad. Cousteau says, while she did get to be a part of her grandfather’s adventures, she had the opportunity to go her own direction.“Obviously I grew up in a family of environmentalists and explorers, so that influenced my life at home and just the way I see the world,” Cousteau said. “But my family never forced me into doing what I do now.”Cousteau’s travels have taken her to some of the most remote areas of the world, including numerous trips to Brazil. She says people all around the world thrive for the same basic wants and needs.“The basic needs you know are food, water, lodging and love, I don’t think we give enough value to that,” Cousteau said. “A sense of belonging is also something we’re searching for and I think in this modern world we have moved somewhat away from that. Not just the nuclear family, but a sense of tribe and a sense of community.”Cousteau says that each place she visits has a special feel and look, offering her first look at a Kansas sunset and how spectacular it was.“I think it’s just over the course of time, you see that same thing over and over again and you lose appreciation for it because it becomes commonplace,” Cousteau said.” I lived in the northeast United States for a long time and it just seemed to me that nature was bountiful, it was always beautiful and it was always out there. Then I moved to New Mexico . . . boy, what’s here? Then I saw the sun set, then the rocks changed colors every 10 minutes. So I think it’s just a question of perception.”As far as exploration and the cost and impact it has had on indigenous people and the environment, Cousteau says that since her grandfather's incredible explorations, more knowledge and planning goes into any trip she takes.“You have to go back to the 1950s when we were starting to take off, we didn’t have a lot of hindsight as to what the impact was,” Cousteau said. “Through the years, what was being documented is an understanding that our going anywhere has an impact from the act of going there to being there. We now have much more information on how to do that thoughtfully, or at all.”During her presentation, Cousteau shared stories of the places and people she’s met on her vast explorations. She says she has hopes of fostering cross-cultural communication and connecting everyone’s collective experience as one human tribe.&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.

Cousteau still likes adventure but with a different outlook

NEWTON, Kan. —Two people were injured in a hit-and-run accident Tuesday morning in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a westbound vehicle ran a stop sign on northeast 60th at K-15 two where it struck a southbound car driven by 25-year-old Carlos Javier Damian, of Peabody, then left the scene.

EMS transported Damian and a passenger 26-year-old Joselin Alfaro Espinoza, also of Peabody, to Newton Medical Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All occupants in Damian’s vehicle were properly restrained, according to the KHP. The accident happened about 9:30 a.m. two miles north of Newton

<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/2019/8/1565699709134.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. —Two people were injured in a hit-and-run accident Tuesday morning in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a westbound vehicle ran a stop sign on northeast 60th at K-15 two where it struck a southbound car driven by 25-year-old Carlos Javier Damian, of Peabody, then left the scene.EMS transported Damian and a passenger 26-year-old Joselin Alfaro Espinoza, also of Peabody, to Newton Medical Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;All occupants in Damian’s vehicle were properly restrained, according to the KHP. The accident happened about 9:30 a.m. two miles north of Newton<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.

2 hospitalized after Harvey County hit -and -run crash


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson's SW Bricktown Neighborhood will follow up last year's Fiesta with a Cinco de Mayo celebration at Memorial Hall, including a car show, Mexican lucha libre-style pro wrestling, and a dance. 

"We are working on bringing in a beer garden and food trucks as well," the neighborhood said.

The tentative time posted on social media is noon to 11:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall on Saturday, May 7.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644347294229.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson's SW Bricktown Neighborhood will follow up last year's Fiesta with a Cinco de Mayo celebration at Memorial Hall, including a car show, Mexican lucha libre-style pro wrestling, and a dance. "We are working on bringing in a beer garden and food trucks as well," the neighborhood said.The tentative time posted on social media is noon to 11:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall on Saturday, May 7.

SW Bricktown working on plans for Cinco De Mayo


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Commissioners are planning to do further work on how to spend the latest round of COVID relief dollars later this month.

"It looks like there's consensus amongst the commission to have a extended study session in two weeks related to ARPA recommendations," said Chairman Daniel Friesen. "If it's okay with you guys, I think we might just work through lunch and bring lunch in. Is that acceptable? We'll plan on having a study session after our regularly scheduled meeting."

The ARPA Task Force told the county commission last month it would like to see the bulk of the money spent solving child care issues in the county. However, the study on those needs will not be back until October. Commissioner Ron Hirst is already doing some research on the topic.

"Randy Partington gave me some really good information on Finney County and how they are handling the early learning network and the county childcare that I thought was very informative," Hirst said. "I've sent an email to them to look into that and discuss a little bit, because their coordination between the junior college and the city and the county to me is pretty impressive. To go along with that, our county counselor, Patrick gave me information on Lincoln County to contact them about theirs, so I'll be doing that."

Hutchinson City Administrator Jeff Cantrell suggested to his governing body that they go 50-50 on projects and the task force recommendations. 

The County Commission has not said what their division of those resources should be. That will likely be one of the topics of the upcoming study session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630684125903.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Commissioners are planning to do further work on how to spend the latest round of COVID relief dollars later this month."It looks like there's consensus amongst the commission to have a extended study session in two weeks related to ARPA recommendations," said Chairman Daniel Friesen. "If it's okay with you guys, I think we might just work through lunch and bring lunch in. Is that acceptable? We'll plan on having a study session after our regularly scheduled meeting."The ARPA Task Force told the county commission last month it would like to see the bulk of the money spent solving child care issues in the county. However, the study on those needs will not be back until October. Commissioner Ron Hirst is already doing some research on the topic."Randy Partington gave me some really good information on Finney County and how they are handling the early learning network and the county childcare that I thought was very informative," Hirst said. "I've sent an email to them to look into that and discuss a little bit, because their coordination between the junior college and the city and the county to me is pretty impressive. To go along with that, our county counselor, Patrick gave me information on Lincoln County to contact them about theirs, so I'll be doing that."Hutchinson City Administrator Jeff Cantrell suggested to his governing body that they go 50-50 on projects and the task force recommendations. The County Commission has not said what their division of those resources should be. That will likely be one of the topics of the upcoming study session.

Commissioners to hold ARPA study session Feb. 22

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with &nbsp;Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9zvym-119e5dd-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with &nbsp;Kansas housing Emergency Rental Assistance program executive director Ryan Vincent.

🎤Forward Ever: Ryan Vincent, Kansas Housing Corp.


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Superintendent Curtis Nightingale is optimistic that a bond issue proposal will be coming from his board.

"We had a fairly spirited conversation at our board meeting last night, actually," Nightingale said. "I think we're getting closer. We certainly haven't nailed anything to the wall yet. In talking with patrons and talking with parents and stuff, I think there are a lot of ideas out there. I think there are a lot of wants. There are definitely a lot of needs and we're trying to weigh those and make it something affordable."

Once they finalize the scope of what they want to see voted on, then it's time to educate the public.

"You've got some who will say, here's how you sell it, a cup of coffee a day kind of thing," Nightingale said. "I'm not sure that's going to mean a lot to people that are on a fixed income and those types of things. They're not going to Starbucks and buying a cup of coffee every day. That's not real for them. At the end of the day for them, they are either making a monthly payment or they are making a yearly proerty tax payment. What's that mean to them? We have to be careful of that. We also have to show that we have done our due diligence and we have taken care of what we have."

There's a school of thought that says ask for everything at once so you only have to get one yes vote, but that's not Nightingale's preferred approach.

"We have to have a plan, I think, in terms of playing the long game," Nightingale said. "Looking at the immediate needs, maybe you go with a shorter term, lower priced bond to basically prove to your constituency that you're going to do what you say and that you say what you mean."

Nightingale added that once you've proven to taxpayers that you'll use their money efficiently and wisely, then there is still the opportunity to go back when that bond is paid for and talk about some of the wants then.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618591958347.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Superintendent Curtis Nightingale is optimistic that a bond issue proposal will be coming from his board."We had a fairly spirited conversation at our board meeting last night, actually," Nightingale said. "I think we're getting closer. We certainly haven't nailed anything to the wall yet. In talking with patrons and talking with parents and stuff, I think there are a lot of ideas out there. I think there are a lot of wants. There are definitely a lot of needs and we're trying to weigh those and make it something affordable."Once they finalize the scope of what they want to see voted on, then it's time to educate the public."You've got some who will say, here's how you sell it, a cup of coffee a day kind of thing," Nightingale said. "I'm not sure that's going to mean a lot to people that are on a fixed income and those types of things. They're not going to Starbucks and buying a cup of coffee every day. That's not real for them. At the end of the day for them, they are either making a monthly payment or they are making a yearly proerty tax payment. What's that mean to them? We have to be careful of that. We also have to show that we have done our due diligence and we have taken care of what we have."There's a school of thought that says ask for everything at once so you only have to get one yes vote, but that's not Nightingale's preferred approach."We have to have a plan, I think, in terms of playing the long game," Nightingale said. "Looking at the immediate needs, maybe you go with a shorter term, lower priced bond to basically prove to your constituency that you're going to do what you say and that you say what you mean."Nightingale added that once you've proven to taxpayers that you'll use their money efficiently and wisely, then there is still the opportunity to go back when that bond is paid for and talk about some of the wants then.

Nightingale: Closer on bond plans, but need to think of all constituents


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners wants to see a policy put in place to give a framework for appointments to volunteer boards in the county like the Reno County Council on Aging, the Reno County Public Transportation Commission, the Community Corrections Advisory Board and the Juvenile Corrections Advisory Board, along with the Reno County Health Department Advisory Board and the Planning Commission.

The goal is for County Administrator Randy Partington to get with the department heads and communications staff to put together a plan so that potential applicants know about the openings farther ahead of time and so that those who want to apply again go through the same process for renewal as they did for initial appointment to allow those who may not have served before but have a desire to help, to have a fair opportunity.

County Administrator Randy Partington told commissioners he would bring them back something to look at in two weeks.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners wants to see a policy put in place to give a framework for appointments to volunteer boards in the county like the Reno County Council on Aging, the Reno County Public Transportation Commission, the Community Corrections Advisory Board and the Juvenile Corrections Advisory Board, along with the Reno County Health Department Advisory Board and the Planning Commission.The goal is for County Administrator Randy Partington to get with the department heads and communications staff to put together a plan so that potential applicants know about the openings farther ahead of time and so that those who want to apply again go through the same process for renewal as they did for initial appointment to allow those who may not have served before but have a desire to help, to have a fair opportunity.County Administrator Randy Partington told commissioners he would bring them back something to look at in two weeks.

Commission wants policy on volunteer boards

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec announced on Monday that Ted Nelson, Director of Aquatics and Wellness Divisions, is set to retire on March 1.

Nelson started with Hutch Rec in 1990 as a seasonal pool manager and swim lessons teacher at the Rice Park Pool and later Carey Park Pool. He worked in the summers with Hutch Rec and was a special education teacher during the school year.

In 2000, Nelson managed the Salt City Splash Aquatic Center in its inaugural year. In 2001, he was hired full-time as Hutch Rec’s Superintendent of Aquatics. In addition to operating Salt City Splash and later the Buhler Pool, Nelson has assisted in other roles at Hutch Rec throughout his tenure, including: teen activities and programming, adaptive recreation, wellness/fitness programming, and several community events and races.

A public come-and-go reception for Nelson will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 22 from 4-6 p.m. at the Taylors’ Shady Lane Cabin on the grounds of Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th Ave.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec announced on Monday that Ted Nelson, Director of Aquatics and Wellness Divisions, is set to retire on March 1.Nelson started with Hutch Rec in 1990 as a seasonal pool manager and swim lessons teacher at the Rice Park Pool and later Carey Park Pool. He worked in the summers with Hutch Rec and was a special education teacher during the school year.In 2000, Nelson managed the Salt City Splash Aquatic Center in its inaugural year. In 2001, he was hired full-time as Hutch Rec’s Superintendent of Aquatics. In addition to operating Salt City Splash and later the Buhler Pool, Nelson has assisted in other roles at Hutch Rec throughout his tenure, including: teen activities and programming, adaptive recreation, wellness/fitness programming, and several community events and races.A public come-and-go reception for Nelson will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 22 from 4-6 p.m. at the Taylors’ Shady Lane Cabin on the grounds of Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th Ave.<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.

Nelson to retire March 1


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The 2022 Hutch Chamber Awards Night tickets are on sale now. 

Join the Chamber on March 3rd for this new annual event honoring Chamber members. The event is at the Crystal Ballroom at The Burt, 3 W. Avenue B. The reception begins at 5:30 p.m., with dinner and the program at 6:15 p.m.

<a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/2022Hutch%20Chamber%20Awards%20Night-9672/register?fbclid=IwAR2mwi8UbvGrHXLMdbb1t33pTNfQ_MFlMXYj6Y38g9qKwfyu3Gm6Slg0MHk">Tickets are $50 per person</a>.

Awards to be presented include the Rising Star Award. This award recognizes a young individual under the age of 35 who has distinguished themselves as a leader and role model in our community.

Also to be presented is the&nbsp;Minority/Woman-Owned Business Award.&nbsp;

Sponsored by Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, this award recognizes a minority or woman-owned, small business that has attained outstanding business achievement and made significant contributions to the local community.&nbsp;

Additional awards that will be given away include the 2021 Small Business of the Year, the Legacy Award, Ambassador of the Year Award, as well as a special Double Dare promotion presented by StartUp Hutch, which is to honor all businesses that have doubled their employees since 2019.&nbsp;

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The 2022 Hutch Chamber Awards Night tickets are on sale now. Join the Chamber on March 3rd for this new annual event honoring Chamber members. The event is at the Crystal Ballroom at The Burt, 3 W. Avenue B. The reception begins at 5:30 p.m., with dinner and the program at 6:15 p.m.<a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/2022Hutch%20Chamber%20Awards%20Night-9672/register?fbclid=IwAR2mwi8UbvGrHXLMdbb1t33pTNfQ_MFlMXYj6Y38g9qKwfyu3Gm6Slg0MHk">Tickets are $50 per person</a>.Awards to be presented include the Rising Star Award. This award recognizes a young individual under the age of 35 who has distinguished themselves as a leader and role model in our community.Also to be presented is the&nbsp;Minority/Woman-Owned Business Award.&nbsp;Sponsored by Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, this award recognizes a minority or woman-owned, small business that has attained outstanding business achievement and made significant contributions to the local community.&nbsp;Additional awards that will be given away include the 2021 Small Business of the Year, the Legacy Award, Ambassador of the Year Award, as well as a special Double Dare promotion presented by StartUp Hutch, which is to honor all businesses that have doubled their employees since 2019.&nbsp;

Chamber Awards Night tickets are on sale


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working.

"For years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. "What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then vote on it."

Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual dollars.

"We will go in and work with any city or county or school district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."

The school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund, no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall budget to comply with that statute.

"That's only part of what schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."

The issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first year of the program.&nbsp;

A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working.

The issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first year of the program.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.kansasopengov.org/kog/databank#report_id=94">The results are available at KansasOpenGov.org</a>.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working."For years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. "What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then vote on it."Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual dollars."We will go in and work with any city or county or school district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."The school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund, no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall budget to comply with that statute."That's only part of what schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."The issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first year of the program.&nbsp;A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working."For years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. "What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then vote on it."Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual dollars."We will go in and work with any city or county or school district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."The school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund, no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall budget to comply with that statute."That's only part of what schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."The issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first year of the program.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.kansasopengov.org/kog/databank#report_id=94">The results are available at KansasOpenGov.org</a>.

Trabert: Truth in Taxation working as intended

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tyson Foods released its first quarter numbers on Monday. The meat and poultry giant reported total sales of $12.9 billion compared with $10.4 billion in 2021. Net income for the quarter was $1.1 billion compared with $472 million in 2021.

In the prepared foods division, sales totaled $2.3 billion. Sales volume decreased due to the divestiture of Tyson's pet treats business in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021 as well as lower production primarily associated with a challenging labor and supply environment.&nbsp;

Average sales price in prepared foods increased primarily due to the effects of revenue management in an inflationary-cost environment. Operating income decreased due to the impacts of inflationary market conditions, including $215 million of increased raw materials and other input costs, increased supply chain costs and a challenging labor environment, partially offset by favorable pricing, according to a release from Tyson.

Tyson operates two prepared foods processing plants in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson employing about 475 workers.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tyson Foods released its first quarter numbers on Monday. The meat and poultry giant reported total sales of $12.9 billion compared with $10.4 billion in 2021. Net income for the quarter was $1.1 billion compared with $472 million in 2021.In the prepared foods division, sales totaled $2.3 billion. Sales volume decreased due to the divestiture of Tyson's pet treats business in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2021 as well as lower production primarily associated with a challenging labor and supply environment.&nbsp;Average sales price in prepared foods increased primarily due to the effects of revenue management in an inflationary-cost environment. Operating income decreased due to the impacts of inflationary market conditions, including $215 million of increased raw materials and other input costs, increased supply chain costs and a challenging labor environment, partially offset by favorable pricing, according to a release from Tyson.Tyson operates two prepared foods processing plants in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson employing about 475 workers.<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.

Tyson releases 1Q earnings

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School thespians had great results at the State Thespian Festival held recently.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Salthawks had multiple students compete in the Thespys Individual Events section.

Students who received an Excellent Rating were:

Students who received Superior Ratings and qualified to compete at Internationals were:

Daniel Miller and Caroline Miller in Musical Theatre Duet Acting

In addition, Thaddaeus and Mariana were asked to perform in the Thespy showcase on Friday night as two of the Top 10 performers who received the 10 highest scores in acting performances in the State of Kansas.

Hutch High also had two students audition for colleges at the conference. Noah Buller auditioned for acting and received 14 callbacks from colleges attending the conference, while Kori Calkins auditioned for Technical Theatre and received 23 callbacks from colleges attending the conference.

In addition, instructor Toby Henline was named the Region V Kansas Theatre Teacher of the Year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School thespians had great results at the State Thespian Festival held recently.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Salthawks had multiple students compete in the Thespys Individual Events section.Students who received an Excellent Rating were:Noah Buller in MonologuesIsabella Allen in Makeup DesignBreanna Miller in Sound DesignStudents who received Superior Ratings and qualified to compete at Internationals were:Thaddaeus Blakley in MonologuesMariana Inchauriga in MonologuesMagnolia Foster in Theatre MarketingKori Calkins in Scenic DesignDaniel Miller and Caroline Miller in Musical Theatre Duet ActingIn addition, Thaddaeus and Mariana were asked to perform in the Thespy showcase on Friday night as two of the Top 10 performers who received the 10 highest scores in acting performances in the State of Kansas.Hutch High also had two students audition for colleges at the conference. Noah Buller auditioned for acting and received 14 callbacks from colleges attending the conference, while Kori Calkins auditioned for Technical Theatre and received 23 callbacks from colleges attending the conference.In addition, instructor Toby Henline was named the Region V Kansas Theatre Teacher of the Year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

HHS thespians do well at state

LANGDON, Kan. — Fairfield USD 310 will host a COVID vaccination clinic on Friday, Feb. 18.

The clinic will run from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Fairfield school cafeteria. Vaccinations and booster shots will be available in both the Pfizer and Moderna doses. The vaccinations are free of charge and the clinic is open to anyone wanting a vaccination.

The shots are available for children ages five and up.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LANGDON, Kan. — Fairfield USD 310 will host a COVID vaccination clinic on Friday, Feb. 18.The clinic will run from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Fairfield school cafeteria. Vaccinations and booster shots will be available in both the Pfizer and Moderna doses. The vaccinations are free of charge and the clinic is open to anyone wanting a vaccination.The shots are available for children ages five and up.&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.

USD 310 to hold vaccination clinic


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System on Monday announced the hire of Penny Stoss as the Director of the HRHS Learning Academy, which is projected to launch in 2023.

In her new role, Stoss will be working closing with State agencies to develop the highest quality childcare academy available. She will report to Chief Executive Officer Ken Johnson and her temporary office is located inside of Administration. An Advisory Council of childcare experts will advise Stoss as she formulates plans to open the HRHS Learning Academy.

Stoss’ 30-plus-year background in education includes her most recent role as Assistant Superintendent and Curriculum Director of USD 309 Nickerson/South Hutchinson. She also served USD 418 McPherson as Director of Early Childhood and Building Principal, where she supervised a staff of 60.

Penny’s own education includes a Master’s in Educational Administration from Wichita State University, a Master’s in Education &amp; Curriculum from Friends University, and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from McPherson College. When asked about her goals for the new unit, Stoss stated “Our goal will be to provide high quality childcare in an effort to remove a layer of stress from the lives of hard-working parents. The availability of childcare is an important factor in the retention and recruitment of good employees and Hutchinson Regional aspires to be in the forefront of providing those services. It is our goal to provide childcare services to the several hundred employees who are juggling their jobs with raising a family.”

In her off time, Stoss enjoys reading, gardening, spending time with her two grown children, her husband Steve and her dog.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System on Monday announced the hire of Penny Stoss as the Director of the HRHS Learning Academy, which is projected to launch in 2023.In her new role, Stoss will be working closing with State agencies to develop the highest quality childcare academy available. She will report to Chief Executive Officer Ken Johnson and her temporary office is located inside of Administration. An Advisory Council of childcare experts will advise Stoss as she formulates plans to open the HRHS Learning Academy.Stoss’ 30-plus-year background in education includes her most recent role as Assistant Superintendent and Curriculum Director of USD 309 Nickerson/South Hutchinson. She also served USD 418 McPherson as Director of Early Childhood and Building Principal, where she supervised a staff of 60.Penny’s own education includes a Master’s in Educational Administration from Wichita State University, a Master’s in Education &amp; Curriculum from Friends University, and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from McPherson College. When asked about her goals for the new unit, Stoss stated “Our goal will be to provide high quality childcare in an effort to remove a layer of stress from the lives of hard-working parents. The availability of childcare is an important factor in the retention and recruitment of good employees and Hutchinson Regional aspires to be in the forefront of providing those services. It is our goal to provide childcare services to the several hundred employees who are juggling their jobs with raising a family.”In her off time, Stoss enjoys reading, gardening, spending time with her two grown children, her husband Steve and her dog.

Stoss to lead HRHS Learning Academy

SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The South Hutchinson Police Department has taken 15 cases of Criminal Damage to Property (spray paint) within the south east portion of the city Monday.  

If you have any information or possible video footage in regards to these cases, please call the office at (620) 560-6251. 

Please call 911 if you have found damage and need to make a report.

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 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The South Hutchinson Police Department has taken 15 cases of Criminal Damage to Property (spray paint) within the south east portion of the city Monday. If you have any information or possible video footage in regards to these cases, please call the office at (620) 560-6251. Please call 911 if you have found damage and need to make a report.

Vandalism in South Hutch found Monday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson has an opening on the Planning Commission. 

The purpose of the Planning Commission is to carry out the goals of the City's Comprehensive Plan and oversee the administration of the Zoning Regulations and Subdivision Regulations. 

The Hutchinson Planning Commission also serves as the Board of Zoning Appeals. For more information and to apply, please go to <a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/262/Planning-Commission?fbclid=IwAR2wtK-vx0g3C1dBX0MxuHSBMb9wSyO5ZPoDqeD-qLdHPxRQQ_JWYkVIN-8" target="_blank">https://www.hutchgov.com/262/Planning-Commission</a>

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson has an opening on the Planning Commission. The purpose of the Planning Commission is to carry out the goals of the City's Comprehensive Plan and oversee the administration of the Zoning Regulations and Subdivision Regulations. The Hutchinson Planning Commission also serves as the Board of Zoning Appeals. For more information and to apply, please go to <a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/262/Planning-Commission?fbclid=IwAR2wtK-vx0g3C1dBX0MxuHSBMb9wSyO5ZPoDqeD-qLdHPxRQQ_JWYkVIN-8" target="_blank">https://www.hutchgov.com/262/Planning-Commission</a>

City needs Planning Commission member


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Chamber CEO Debra Teufel joined several economic development professionals from across Kansas in urging the legislature to pass the APEX bill to give another development competitiveness tool to the state.

“The APEX bill could help Kansas land the largest private sector investment in our state’s history. We need this tool for Kansas to be competitive. We cannot miss out on this historic opportunity. I urge you to pass the APEX bill now, to send a message to young Kansans and the industry that Kansas is open for business for the future.” 

Teufel doesn't know what the project is, but speaking generally, such processes are very secretive because you don't want a brand to make you think you should or shouldn't make an investment.

"You really have to look at it as, is this a good economic basis for our state," Teufel said. "You have to use the data and not let the company name drive the project. I think that's what they are doing right now, is saying, this project that is looking at Kansas is, I think, approximately a $4 billion investment. Kansas has, reportedly, had about 11 projects like this over the last few years that we have not been able to compete for, because of just some of the particulars about some of the incentive programs in our state."

This project is likely in northeast Kansas, but details are not being released at this point.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Chamber CEO Debra Teufel joined several economic development professionals from across Kansas in urging the legislature to pass the APEX bill to give another development competitiveness tool to the state.“The APEX bill could help Kansas land the largest private sector investment in our state’s history. We need this tool for Kansas to be competitive. We cannot miss out on this historic opportunity. I urge you to pass the APEX bill now, to send a message to young Kansans and the industry that Kansas is open for business for the future.” Teufel doesn't know what the project is, but speaking generally, such processes are very secretive because you don't want a brand to make you think you should or shouldn't make an investment."You really have to look at it as, is this a good economic basis for our state," Teufel said. "You have to use the data and not let the company name drive the project. I think that's what they are doing right now, is saying, this project that is looking at Kansas is, I think, approximately a $4 billion investment. Kansas has, reportedly, had about 11 projects like this over the last few years that we have not been able to compete for, because of just some of the particulars about some of the incentive programs in our state."This project is likely in northeast Kansas, but details are not being released at this point.

Teufel offers support for APEX eco-devo bill


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Midwest Superstore, HutchCC and the Cancer Council of Reno County are pleased to see the return of Pink Out Night this Saturday at the Sports Arena.

"We're excited to have it again," said Steve Kappenman with HutchCC. "Last year, we weren't able to do it with COVID. This just kind of amps it up even more. This is our 10th annual Pink Out. The Blue Dragons will take on the Colby Trojans. We're selling shirts and all proceeds go to Cancer Council of Reno County. We've been selling shirts for the last two weeks or so at our home games. We're already up to $3000. We've kind of put a dent in that $10,000."

Midwest Superstore is providing the shirts. If you want to help more after buying a shirt, the college is also doing pledge cards.

"Josh Gooch came up with that, the AD at the college," Kappenman said. "Folks can come to the game and if they want to give $1 per three, then every three we make, the girls and the guys, you're going to have to own up to that, hopefully. We're on the honor system and you'll come in and pay for that. If you're feeling like $5, we'll take whatever you want. We're hoping we just light it up and hit 20 or 30 threes that night."

For the Cancer Council, this is a huge month with their annual fundraiser, but the whole goal is to pay for those incidental expenses for Reno County people with cancer.

"The little things that you don't think about, the travel, the mileage, the gas, the wear and tear on your vehicle," said Ashley Thompson, Director of Patient Care for Cancer Council of Reno County. "A lot of times, just out of pocket expenses that patients aren't used to having to pay for. We definitely pick up the little things."

The Cancer Council is currently serving 230 Reno County residents actively that are going through treatment.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644253689160.jpeg" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Midwest Superstore, HutchCC and the Cancer Council of Reno County are pleased to see the return of Pink Out Night this Saturday at the Sports Arena."We're excited to have it again," said Steve Kappenman with HutchCC. "Last year, we weren't able to do it with COVID. This just kind of amps it up even more. This is our 10th annual Pink Out. The Blue Dragons will take on the Colby Trojans. We're selling shirts and all proceeds go to Cancer Council of Reno County. We've been selling shirts for the last two weeks or so at our home games. We're already up to $3000. We've kind of put a dent in that $10,000."Midwest Superstore is providing the shirts. If you want to help more after buying a shirt, the college is also doing pledge cards."Josh Gooch came up with that, the AD at the college," Kappenman said. "Folks can come to the game and if they want to give $1 per three, then every three we make, the girls and the guys, you're going to have to own up to that, hopefully. We're on the honor system and you'll come in and pay for that. If you're feeling like $5, we'll take whatever you want. We're hoping we just light it up and hit 20 or 30 threes that night."For the Cancer Council, this is a huge month with their annual fundraiser, but the whole goal is to pay for those incidental expenses for Reno County people with cancer."The little things that you don't think about, the travel, the mileage, the gas, the wear and tear on your vehicle," said Ashley Thompson, Director of Patient Care for Cancer Council of Reno County. "A lot of times, just out of pocket expenses that patients aren't used to having to pay for. We definitely pick up the little things."The Cancer Council is currently serving 230 Reno County residents actively that are going through treatment.

Pink Out night coming up Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While the future still looks bright for Siemens Gamesa and its wind energy platform, supply chain issues and other COVID related factors ate into the company's bottom line for the first quarter. Revenue fell by more than 20% year-over-year at $2.05 billion although order backlog continues to be strong at $38.4 Billion.

The onshore market obtained new orders for 1,791 MW, worth $1.4 billion. The market has been affected by the hiatus in the US and Spanish markets, together with the company's commercial strategy focused on controlling risk and prioritizing profitability over volume. Still, due to the increased costs and impacts to order backlog for onshore turbines, the manufacturer posted a loss of $327 million in the first quarter.&nbsp;

“We remain immersed in a very complex market environment, with disruptions and low visibility in the supply chain. In this context, we continue taking measures to protect our profitability and adapt to these dynamics, which will persist in the coming months,” Andreas Nauen, Siemens Gamesa’s Chief Executive Officer said. “However, we cannot forget the privilege of working in a sector with enormous potential and the promise of improving the future of the planet. Our backlog is a testament to our employees’ hard work and dedication.”&nbsp;

The supply chain issues forced the company to go to rolling furloughs or shut down production all together at many of its facilities including Hutchinson. It’s a problem the company says will last much longer than expected and could go well into the rest of the 2022 fiscal year.

The company also announced a major shake up in it’s leadership as current company CEO Andreas Nauen will be replaced by Jochen Eickholt starting March 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607017503991.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While the future still looks bright for Siemens Gamesa and its wind energy platform, supply chain issues and other COVID related factors ate into the company's bottom line for the first quarter. Revenue fell by more than 20% year-over-year at $2.05 billion although order backlog continues to be strong at $38.4 Billion.The onshore market obtained new orders for 1,791 MW, worth $1.4 billion. The market has been affected by the hiatus in the US and Spanish markets, together with the company's commercial strategy focused on controlling risk and prioritizing profitability over volume. Still, due to the increased costs and impacts to order backlog for onshore turbines, the manufacturer posted a loss of $327 million in the first quarter.&nbsp;“We remain immersed in a very complex market environment, with disruptions and low visibility in the supply chain. In this context, we continue taking measures to protect our profitability and adapt to these dynamics, which will persist in the coming months,” Andreas Nauen, Siemens Gamesa’s Chief Executive Officer said. “However, we cannot forget the privilege of working in a sector with enormous potential and the promise of improving the future of the planet. Our backlog is a testament to our employees’ hard work and dedication.”&nbsp;The supply chain issues forced the company to go to rolling furloughs or shut down production all together at many of its facilities including Hutchinson. It’s a problem the company says will last much longer than expected and could go well into the rest of the 2022 fiscal year.The company also announced a major shake up in it’s leadership as current company CEO Andreas Nauen will be replaced by Jochen Eickholt starting March 1.<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.

Siemens Gamesa posts first quarter losses

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced today that Christina Nuttmann has been named Human Resources Manager for Superior Holding. In her new role, Nuttmann will have personnel management oversight for all Superior Holding businesses. Her responsibilities encompass personnel development, benefits administration and employee recruiting.

Nuttmann has succeeded in increasing roles of responsibility since joining Superior Boiler in 2019. Most recently, as Marketing Coordinator, she helped lead the marketing campaign the company initiated in early 2021.

“I am extremely excited to see Chris be promoted to this important role within our company,” Superior Boiler President and CEO Doug Wright said. “She has been an outstanding employee during her time with us and has taken on increasingly demanding roles and responsibilities throughout her career. I’m confident her abilities will help take our human resources area where it needs to go. We’re particularly excited about Chris’ strategic thinking on how we can improve employee recruitment and retention in support of Superior Boiler across all product lines and departments.”

<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/2022/2/1644251229842.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced today that Christina Nuttmann has been named Human Resources Manager for Superior Holding. In her new role, Nuttmann will have personnel management oversight for all Superior Holding businesses. Her responsibilities encompass personnel development, benefits administration and employee recruiting.Nuttmann has succeeded in increasing roles of responsibility since joining Superior Boiler in 2019. Most recently, as Marketing Coordinator, she helped lead the marketing campaign the company initiated in early 2021.“I am extremely excited to see Chris be promoted to this important role within our company,” Superior Boiler President and CEO Doug Wright said. “She has been an outstanding employee during her time with us and has taken on increasingly demanding roles and responsibilities throughout her career. I’m confident her abilities will help take our human resources area where it needs to go. We’re particularly excited about Chris’ strategic thinking on how we can improve employee recruitment and retention in support of Superior Boiler across all product lines and departments.”<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;

Nuttmann named Human Resources manager for Superior Boiler

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Once again, the Hutchinson High School Expressives and Harmonics singing groups will offer singing valentines next week.&nbsp;

You can order a singing valentine for $20 per song. It also includes a complimentary rose for your loved one. For more information or to book a spot, contact Roger Wilson at 785-406-0370 or email&nbsp;<a href="http://wilson.roger@usd308.com.">wilson.roger@usd308.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644250870317.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Once again, the Hutchinson High School Expressives and Harmonics singing groups will offer singing valentines next week.&nbsp;You can order a singing valentine for $20 per song. It also includes a complimentary rose for your loved one. For more information or to book a spot, contact Roger Wilson at 785-406-0370 or email&nbsp;<a href="http://wilson.roger@usd308.com.">wilson.roger@usd308.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HHS offering singing Valentines again this year

I can’t remember if I was helping check momma cows during calving season or chopping ice during a spell of cold weather when I was inspired to do something I shouldn’t. I do know it was about this time of year when my grandfather’s storytelling found a set of eager ears and launched a journey that would be completed a few weeks later, just about the time spring break rolled around.

I was in high school, and I can still envision the scene in my grandfather’s pickup truck as he told me about the time he tried to make wine when he was about my age. From my hazy recollection, the gist of the story was he poured some yeast into a bottle of grape juice and then stuffed a cork in the neck and stowed the brew away inside his closet.

Eventually, he forgot about the science experiment fermenting somewhere amongst his blue jeans and boots. The days turned into weeks before there was a sudden reckoning as the cork’s grip on the glass was overcome by a buildup of carbon dioxide and shot out, followed by the rest of the bottle’s contents.

“I got in a decent amount of trouble for ruining my clothes,” my grandfather told me. “But my closet sure smelled good for a long time.”

Even while I was laughing at the punchline, my mind was forming a plan to conduct my own experiment. I even had the benefit of knowing a cork shouldn’t be used. I also took satisfaction in the apparent loophole my grandfather helped me see. While I was too young to buy alcohol, there was no such prohibition on sourcing all of the necessary ingredients.

It didn’t take long to recruit a friend to help complete this small act of rebellion. We soon abandoned our initial plan to create our own vintage with freshly crushed grapes in favor of a couple bottles of juice off a shelf, a sack of sugar and some yeast. These supplies were artfully split between two different shopping carts so as to avoid raising any suspicions of their intended use.

We retreated to the cover of my friend’s kitchen to begin mixing the elixir, an act we were old enough to know was wrong, but we were young enough to do it anyway. We spooned in sugar and added bread yeast before stretching balloons over the lips of each bottle. Then we waited.

Periodically checking the concoction over the next few weeks provided a great view of chemistry in action. The yeast consumed the sugar producing enough carbon dioxide to fill the balloon, which was evidence our plan was working. When the rubber orbs started to deflate a few weeks later, it was finally time to test our winemaking skills.

We were naïve enough to hope we’d brewed something amazing. We would have settled for something that was merely drinkable. Our sights were set way too high. While the liquid gave off an almost pleasant aroma as we strained it through coffee filters, the initial sip was overpowering. So much so that I had a much more intimate understanding of what Roger Miller was singing about in “Chug-a-Lug”.

We didn’t make it much beyond the initial tasting before abandoning the idea of drinking our wine. I’m sure it could have been repurposed to strip varnish or a ground clearing herbicide, though. The only buzz I received from the wine was the bit of wisdom that my grandfather was lucky to have forgotten that bottle in his closet.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauI can’t remember if I was helping check momma cows during calving season or chopping ice during a spell of cold weather when I was inspired to do something I shouldn’t. I do know it was about this time of year when my grandfather’s storytelling found a set of eager ears and launched a journey that would be completed a few weeks later, just about the time spring break rolled around.I was in high school, and I can still envision the scene in my grandfather’s pickup truck as he told me about the time he tried to make wine when he was about my age. From my hazy recollection, the gist of the story was he poured some yeast into a bottle of grape juice and then stuffed a cork in the neck and stowed the brew away inside his closet.Eventually, he forgot about the science experiment fermenting somewhere amongst his blue jeans and boots. The days turned into weeks before there was a sudden reckoning as the cork’s grip on the glass was overcome by a buildup of carbon dioxide and shot out, followed by the rest of the bottle’s contents.“I got in a decent amount of trouble for ruining my clothes,” my grandfather told me. “But my closet sure smelled good for a long time.”Even while I was laughing at the punchline, my mind was forming a plan to conduct my own experiment. I even had the benefit of knowing a cork shouldn’t be used. I also took satisfaction in the apparent loophole my grandfather helped me see. While I was too young to buy alcohol, there was no such prohibition on sourcing all of the necessary ingredients.It didn’t take long to recruit a friend to help complete this small act of rebellion. We soon abandoned our initial plan to create our own vintage with freshly crushed grapes in favor of a couple bottles of juice off a shelf, a sack of sugar and some yeast. These supplies were artfully split between two different shopping carts so as to avoid raising any suspicions of their intended use.We retreated to the cover of my friend’s kitchen to begin mixing the elixir, an act we were old enough to know was wrong, but we were young enough to do it anyway. We spooned in sugar and added bread yeast before stretching balloons over the lips of each bottle. Then we waited.Periodically checking the concoction over the next few weeks provided a great view of chemistry in action. The yeast consumed the sugar producing enough carbon dioxide to fill the balloon, which was evidence our plan was working. When the rubber orbs started to deflate a few weeks later, it was finally time to test our winemaking skills.We were naïve enough to hope we’d brewed something amazing. We would have settled for something that was merely drinkable. Our sights were set way too high. While the liquid gave off an almost pleasant aroma as we strained it through coffee filters, the initial sip was overpowering. So much so that I had a much more intimate understanding of what Roger Miller was singing about in “Chug-a-Lug”.We didn’t make it much beyond the initial tasting before abandoning the idea of drinking our wine. I’m sure it could have been repurposed to strip varnish or a ground clearing herbicide, though. The only buzz I received from the wine was the bit of wisdom that my grandfather was lucky to have forgotten that bottle in his closet."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2022 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

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