HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Scuba diving to train for spaceflight, moon and Mars landing simulations, and training for a Martian settlement mission 650 feet below the surface of the earth are part of the Cosmosphere's&nbsp; 2022 summer camps for next summer.

Elementary students entering 3rd grade and above can explore the complexities of living in space while having fun meeting “their people” in a STEM-centered environment.

Students entering 7th-12th grades practice teamwork and problem-solving, making friends for life in mission teams while learning about the variety of professions engaged in STEM and aerospace industries.

Cosmosphere camp registration opens Tuesday with limited-time offers, including exclusive Holiday Gift Bundles with boxed surprises for gift-giving, available through Nov. 27, and a Holiday Special allowing parents to register campers for only $70 down before Dec. 31, 2021. Many of the camps sell out each year.

Building on a rigorous base of Next Generation Science Standards and work readiness skill development, Cosmosphere camp participants learn how a broad range of skills, from journalism to health care and agriculture, contribute to the excitement and success of living and working in space.

This year's camps have added Java Code to the lineup of activities that includes programming robots, designing rockets, flying drones and even learning to fly real planes.

For information and registration, go to <a href="http://cosmocamps.org">cosmocamps.org</a> or call 620-222-0201.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584388004236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Scuba diving to train for spaceflight, moon and Mars landing simulations, and training for a Martian settlement mission 650 feet below the surface of the earth are part of the Cosmosphere's&nbsp; 2022 summer camps for next summer.Elementary students entering 3rd grade and above can explore the complexities of living in space while having fun meeting “their people” in a STEM-centered environment.Students entering 7th-12th grades practice teamwork and problem-solving, making friends for life in mission teams while learning about the variety of professions engaged in STEM and aerospace industries.Cosmosphere camp registration opens Tuesday with limited-time offers, including exclusive Holiday Gift Bundles with boxed surprises for gift-giving, available through Nov. 27, and a Holiday Special allowing parents to register campers for only $70 down before Dec. 31, 2021. Many of the camps sell out each year.Building on a rigorous base of Next Generation Science Standards and work readiness skill development, Cosmosphere camp participants learn how a broad range of skills, from journalism to health care and agriculture, contribute to the excitement and success of living and working in space.This year's camps have added Java Code to the lineup of activities that includes programming robots, designing rockets, flying drones and even learning to fly real planes.For information and registration, go to <a href="http://cosmocamps.org">cosmocamps.org</a> or call 620-222-0201.&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.

Registration for Cosmosphere camps begins Tuesday

In studio with us Charles Johnston, he is running for the at-large seat on the Hutchinson city council. Both Charles and Marla Jean are running against Sarah Bagwell. She is the incumbent in that race. She will be with us tomorrow morning here on BW, but for Charles, first of all, good morning. How are you doing?

So far, so good. So as we've said, everyone has an issue that is the reason that they're running for city council. What city policy was the one that made you decide to run in the first place?

You know, I ran in 2019 because I saw that people weren't being listened to and ultimately the race I was running in, Steve Garza won, and I think that was actually a really good fit for the time and when I thought about running this year. It's because I feel like I'm the right fit for the time. And there are lots of issues that are out there. But the one that I think strikes me the most is the city does not lead with vision. We play whack-a-mole over all sorts of different issues. So the thing I think I would bring to council is not only an understanding of issues on a macro level though, um, or excuse me, on micro level though, to be, in full disclosure, there are some things I'm not quite as familiar on as I'd like to be, but also to lead the city through some of these bigger decisions, thinking about what Hutchinson's going to look like in 20, 30, 40, 50 years from now, not just next year.

Do you currently owe any obligations to any taxing entities for any years prior to this one?

Did you vote in the last city council election? That seems ironic to ask.

I certainly did, both in the primary and in the general.

All right. What can be done to reduce regulation on businesses coming to Hutchinson?

So when I think about what can be done to relieve businesses, to make our economy more friendly and to help our chamber and the city department in charge of recruiting businesses is to make sure that they don't have barriers. And the barriers that I constantly hear from both current developers and potential developers is the fact that our code system is not in good shape. It's not consistent, which to me perhaps is the largest problem because I hear that from residents too, that codes that are on the city books get reinforced or enforced over here while for someone else it doesn't. And, to me, that's a problem. So I'd be very interested in establishing some basic guidelines for how codes are approached for businesses and for individuals. The biggest gap, I think that I can point out that speaks to this today is the fact that there's a local business that has been here for 50 years, out in the Carey Park area that has been under constant threat of losing their property because it's out of shape.

The ironic thing is that we're going to spend $1.5 million on a similar developer to take care of a problem. That's been here for almost 10 years, developing to the full point in 2019, where we lost it. And of course I'm talking about the Atrium Hotel. From my perspective, I would not have supported the action that the current city council is taking, because I think that's rewarding bad behavior. If I think about the things that $1.5 million could have been spent on, I have a lot different priorities. And the thing is, I don't believe we used all of the punitive actions available to us to be able to resolve that problem, or to at least give us the opportunity as a city to not spend as much money to solve it.

To a certain point, I presume that you're referring to the Barnard's property, you're talking about the one on the other end of town. So to follow up on that, just a moment, to a certain point, the Atrium is I'm not going to say an easier decision politically, but it's one that may be more palatable to the general public because you can tax the people that are coming into town for that through bed tax rather than rather than taxing, at least for the most part, the people that live here, which if you tried to do the same sort of rehabilitation project, it would be very difficult to use bed tax, to help on the other end of town. Right or wrong, um, that, that may have made it an easier decision politically.

Sure. Although I would argue that because, the sales tax generated off of Bernard's catering business is actually more consistent, uh, at least in past when they were operating as a business, more consistent and feeds into our economy, better along with the property tax that they pay, because a lot of people don't know this, but because of my experience, with the bed tax, you can only use that for specific things. Sales tax can be used for any variety of things, property tax can be used, for any variety of things. So while yes, there's benefit to the specific areas where bed tax is used, that doesn't, I appreciate the, how should I say this, the point and the contrast that you're trying to draw, but for me, it is discongruent to reward someone for taking advantage of our market, because, let's be clear that hotel has been in trouble since the day it opened. Since the first time I was aware of it, which was probably in high school in 1999, it's gone through, I don't know, maybe six different chains, ultimately leading to this one, which we saw the developer dealing with in Salina and knew the writing on the wall when we gave it to him. So, for me, as a person who supports tourism, and knows that to the point of the president and CEO of the NJCAA, excuse me, coming to town and saying, you've got to fix this. You're going to lose our business. It just frustrates me.

What's a proper level of bonding for a city Hutchinson's size, what percentage of the city's budget should be debt service?

I answer this with the knowledge that, on the early part of the conversation, I'm not an accountant, I'm not a financial advisor, so that is not my area. However, I will say that one of the reasons our form of government exists here in town is because the council is responsible for hiring professionals to take care of these issues for us, the city manager and the director of finance are both responsible for advising us with the best decisions. Now, I'm fortunate enough to remember John Deardoff coming to the city council, this was back in, I think, 20 15, 2016 and saying, we have to have a larger general fund because if we don't, our debt rating is going to go down. And as you know, because of the consumer, excuse me, the consumer familiarity with a credit score, the better credit score you have, the better interest rates you can get. And I think that as a city, right now, we have to be focused on maintaining the best debt rating as possible so we can get the best deals.

And I would also say that historically right now, our bonding rates are so low that it almost makes more sense to borrow money and make sure that we get our value right now. I would say that I am not comfortable doing bonding for projects that we can pay for on their own. However, we do have to have some sort of balance. And for me, I am not a person who supports excessive taxes on the people. So, a way that we can relieve some of that tax obligation is to spread out some of the costs of those larger projects through bonds.

What length should the city's street maintenance program be? We're finally to a set length, at least I believe it's eight years at this point. Is that right? Wrong? Do we need to take a look? How's that work?

So I hear constantly from people I speak to about the quality of streets around town. My spouse will often comment about how he's tired of hearing about potholes. I am pleased to say that the cities finally have a tool to be able to address that. So we're making progress, but the bottom line is that there are parts of town that simply have awful streets. I think of the College Grove area in town, where we have historic brick streets that are simply decaying. And when you think about streets that are on our maintenance plan, I actually live down south of town at 1022 East Sherman, and it had been a dirt road for years and years and years was turned into a asphalt road, probably a decade and a half ago. And it's never been touched since except for repairs. So from my perspective, I would like to re-examine that street schedule, knowing that the arterial streets, you know, 11th, Severance, 17th, need to be maintained at a level that's acceptable to people who are coming to visit, but also recognize that, you know, when we have a five foot hole, that's a exaggeration, but more like a foot hole in one of our brick streets that we have to put a cone in so that people don't drive their cars into, that's a problem. I know that part of the quarter-cent sales tax that funds the Cosmosphere and Strataca also goes to street work. I do have a question about when that goes away or when it comes back up, are we going to be able to pass it for the taxpayer so that we can continue to maintain our streets? I'm concerned, because if we don't, we're going to fall behind even more than we already are.

Are you for or against taking the money from the federal government to put roundabouts in at the Woodie Seat Freeway? Let us know what you think about that issue?

I love that you're bringing this up because this is another area that I am so frustrated on. And it's one of the reasons I decided to really dip into the race this year, because it's emblematic of a problem of our city government. And that is that a few people who feel like they know best about what should happen on a city level, proceed without actually talking to the people that it's going to cause the biggest impact to. I appreciate the opportunity to spend federal dollars to offset some of our costs as a city. However, to do that in this case is going to completely isolate Southwest Bricktown. And that, to me, particularly since residents, weren't really notified that they're going to lose Avenue B, one of their thoroughfares. It's a problem. On the other hand, we also have a bridge problem where if we don't deal with it, it's going to be unsafe for the amount of truck traffic. So it's a conundrum, but from my perspective, we have to deal with our residents first, so we know what they need and want, and if we can't accomplish what they need and want exactly, can we come up with a compromise where they feel good about the decision that has to be made? Again, we have to engage residents before we make decisions like this. And that is what is not happening on a city government level right now.

Now to the infrastructure under the city's streets, the storm water utility fee is in place. And, so, should it stay while we continue the work that, we're still trying to get that big project done, but have the railroads to deal with first?

That's I think critical to important, too, for people to understand as well that sometimes our barriers are not just the city, it's the partners that we work with and the Union Pacific and BNSF are great partners, but there are certain things that from time to time, they cause us to be able to deal with. I think about the, uh, Walnut closure right now that no one's been able to use for almost three weeks. So, when we're talking about the storm water utility fee, one of the problems is that an exorbitant fee like that causes businesses to not be able to come into town, because depending on the size parking lot that they get, that's really the bottom line about what they have to pay. And when you're dealing with, for example, a business that has a small business that has maybe 50 employees, who's trying to come into this building that has this huge parking lot, they can't make a reasonable profit. And so I think we need to re-examine that storm water fee and figure out how we can make it more business friendly.

All right. Well, I'm not going to get to all my questions, but I do want to ask about this and give you a chance to talk about yourself a little bit. How will you build consensus with the other members of the council?

So, I have a proven track record of being able to do this. My background here in town is primarily as a nonprofit executive from 2013 to 2019, I ran Stage 9 and we grew the theater with the cooperation of volunteers and board members by, from a budget perspective, about 300%, um, excuse me, 150% three times. So we were able to increase that budget and the way we were able to do it is because we worked together. Ultimately, as a council member, I realized that it takes three to be able to play. So we have to get consensus between the three of us. Can you do that in a council meeting? Yes. Is there background relationships that have to be able to be built? Yes. And so I think there's relationship work to be done because from my perspective, relationships equal progress, because if you can have good relationships, it's going to make everything easier and progress better.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609255107994.jpeg" alt="City hall.jpg" />
 <figcaption>City hall.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Nick Gosnell (00:00):In studio with us Charles Johnston, he is running for the at-large seat on the Hutchinson city council. Both Charles and Marla Jean are running against Sarah Bagwell. She is the incumbent in that race. She will be with us tomorrow morning here on BW, but for Charles, first of all, good morning. How are you doing?Charles Johnston (00:17):I'm very well. Nick, how about you?Nick Gosnell (00:18):So far, so good. So as we've said, everyone has an issue that is the reason that they're running for city council. What city policy was the one that made you decide to run in the first place?Charles Johnston (00:31):You know, I ran in 2019 because I saw that people weren't being listened to and ultimately the race I was running in, Steve Garza won, and I think that was actually a really good fit for the time and when I thought about running this year. It's because I feel like I'm the right fit for the time. And there are lots of issues that are out there. But the one that I think strikes me the most is the city does not lead with vision. We play whack-a-mole over all sorts of different issues. So the thing I think I would bring to council is not only an understanding of issues on a macro level though, um, or excuse me, on micro level though, to be, in full disclosure, there are some things I'm not quite as familiar on as I'd like to be, but also to lead the city through some of these bigger decisions, thinking about what Hutchinson's going to look like in 20, 30, 40, 50 years from now, not just next year.Nick Gosnell (01:27):Do you currently owe any obligations to any taxing entities for any years prior to this one?Charles Johnston (01:31):No, I do not.Nick Gosnell (01:33):Did you vote in the last city council election? That seems ironic to ask.Charles Johnston (01:37):I certainly did, both in the primary and in the general.Nick Gosnell (01:40):All right. What can be done to reduce regulation on businesses coming to Hutchinson?Charles Johnston (01:46):So when I think about what can be done to relieve businesses, to make our economy more friendly and to help our chamber and the city department in charge of recruiting businesses is to make sure that they don't have barriers. And the barriers that I constantly hear from both current developers and potential developers is the fact that our code system is not in good shape. It's not consistent, which to me perhaps is the largest problem because I hear that from residents too, that codes that are on the city books get reinforced or enforced over here while for someone else it doesn't. And, to me, that's a problem. So I'd be very interested in establishing some basic guidelines for how codes are approached for businesses and for individuals. The biggest gap, I think that I can point out that speaks to this today is the fact that there's a local business that has been here for 50 years, out in the Carey Park area that has been under constant threat of losing their property because it's out of shape.Charles Johnston (02:56):The ironic thing is that we're going to spend $1.5 million on a similar developer to take care of a problem. That's been here for almost 10 years, developing to the full point in 2019, where we lost it. And of course I'm talking about the Atrium Hotel. From my perspective, I would not have supported the action that the current city council is taking, because I think that's rewarding bad behavior. If I think about the things that $1.5 million could have been spent on, I have a lot different priorities. And the thing is, I don't believe we used all of the punitive actions available to us to be able to resolve that problem, or to at least give us the opportunity as a city to not spend as much money to solve it.Nick Gosnell (03:40):To a certain point, I presume that you're referring to the Barnard's property, you're talking about the one on the other end of town. So to follow up on that, just a moment, to a certain point, the Atrium is I'm not going to say an easier decision politically, but it's one that may be more palatable to the general public because you can tax the people that are coming into town for that through bed tax rather than rather than taxing, at least for the most part, the people that live here, which if you tried to do the same sort of rehabilitation project, it would be very difficult to use bed tax, to help on the other end of town. Right or wrong, um, that, that may have made it an easier decision politically.Charles Johnston (04:34):Sure. Although I would argue that because, the sales tax generated off of Bernard's catering business is actually more consistent, uh, at least in past when they were operating as a business, more consistent and feeds into our economy, better along with the property tax that they pay, because a lot of people don't know this, but because of my experience, with the bed tax, you can only use that for specific things. Sales tax can be used for any variety of things, property tax can be used, for any variety of things. So while yes, there's benefit to the specific areas where bed tax is used, that doesn't, I appreciate the, how should I say this, the point and the contrast that you're trying to draw, but for me, it is discongruent to reward someone for taking advantage of our market, because, let's be clear that hotel has been in trouble since the day it opened. Since the first time I was aware of it, which was probably in high school in 1999, it's gone through, I don't know, maybe six different chains, ultimately leading to this one, which we saw the developer dealing with in Salina and knew the writing on the wall when we gave it to him. So, for me, as a person who supports tourism, and knows that to the point of the president and CEO of the NJCAA, excuse me, coming to town and saying, you've got to fix this. You're going to lose our business. It just frustrates me.Nick Gosnell (06:07):What's a proper level of bonding for a city Hutchinson's size, what percentage of the city's budget should be debt service?Charles Johnston (06:13):I answer this with the knowledge that, on the early part of the conversation, I'm not an accountant, I'm not a financial advisor, so that is not my area. However, I will say that one of the reasons our form of government exists here in town is because the council is responsible for hiring professionals to take care of these issues for us, the city manager and the director of finance are both responsible for advising us with the best decisions. Now, I'm fortunate enough to remember John Deardoff coming to the city council, this was back in, I think, 20 15, 2016 and saying, we have to have a larger general fund because if we don't, our debt rating is going to go down. And as you know, because of the consumer, excuse me, the consumer familiarity with a credit score, the better credit score you have, the better interest rates you can get. And I think that as a city, right now, we have to be focused on maintaining the best debt rating as possible so we can get the best deals.Charles Johnston (07:15):And I would also say that historically right now, our bonding rates are so low that it almost makes more sense to borrow money and make sure that we get our value right now. I would say that I am not comfortable doing bonding for projects that we can pay for on their own. However, we do have to have some sort of balance. And for me, I am not a person who supports excessive taxes on the people. So, a way that we can relieve some of that tax obligation is to spread out some of the costs of those larger projects through bonds.Nick Gosnell (07:53):What length should the city's street maintenance program be? We're finally to a set length, at least I believe it's eight years at this point. Is that right? Wrong? Do we need to take a look? How's that work?Charles Johnston (08:10):So I hear constantly from people I speak to about the quality of streets around town. My spouse will often comment about how he's tired of hearing about potholes. I am pleased to say that the cities finally have a tool to be able to address that. So we're making progress, but the bottom line is that there are parts of town that simply have awful streets. I think of the College Grove area in town, where we have historic brick streets that are simply decaying. And when you think about streets that are on our maintenance plan, I actually live down south of town at 1022 East Sherman, and it had been a dirt road for years and years and years was turned into a asphalt road, probably a decade and a half ago. And it's never been touched since except for repairs. So from my perspective, I would like to re-examine that street schedule, knowing that the arterial streets, you know, 11th, Severance, 17th, need to be maintained at a level that's acceptable to people who are coming to visit, but also recognize that, you know, when we have a five foot hole, that's a exaggeration, but more like a foot hole in one of our brick streets that we have to put a cone in so that people don't drive their cars into, that's a problem. I know that part of the quarter-cent sales tax that funds the Cosmosphere and Strataca also goes to street work. I do have a question about when that goes away or when it comes back up, are we going to be able to pass it for the taxpayer so that we can continue to maintain our streets? I'm concerned, because if we don't, we're going to fall behind even more than we already are.Nick Gosnell (09:50):Are you for or against taking the money from the federal government to put roundabouts in at the Woodie Seat Freeway? Let us know what you think about that issue?Charles Johnston (09:59):I love that you're bringing this up because this is another area that I am so frustrated on. And it's one of the reasons I decided to really dip into the race this year, because it's emblematic of a problem of our city government. And that is that a few people who feel like they know best about what should happen on a city level, proceed without actually talking to the people that it's going to cause the biggest impact to. I appreciate the opportunity to spend federal dollars to offset some of our costs as a city. However, to do that in this case is going to completely isolate Southwest Bricktown. And that, to me, particularly since residents, weren't really notified that they're going to lose Avenue B, one of their thoroughfares. It's a problem. On the other hand, we also have a bridge problem where if we don't deal with it, it's going to be unsafe for the amount of truck traffic. So it's a conundrum, but from my perspective, we have to deal with our residents first, so we know what they need and want, and if we can't accomplish what they need and want exactly, can we come up with a compromise where they feel good about the decision that has to be made? Again, we have to engage residents before we make decisions like this. And that is what is not happening on a city government level right now.Nick Gosnell (11:20):Now to the infrastructure under the city's streets, the storm water utility fee is in place. And, so, should it stay while we continue the work that, we're still trying to get that big project done, but have the railroads to deal with first?Charles Johnston (11:34):That's I think critical to important, too, for people to understand as well that sometimes our barriers are not just the city, it's the partners that we work with and the Union Pacific and BNSF are great partners, but there are certain things that from time to time, they cause us to be able to deal with. I think about the, uh, Walnut closure right now that no one's been able to use for almost three weeks. So, when we're talking about the storm water utility fee, one of the problems is that an exorbitant fee like that causes businesses to not be able to come into town, because depending on the size parking lot that they get, that's really the bottom line about what they have to pay. And when you're dealing with, for example, a business that has a small business that has maybe 50 employees, who's trying to come into this building that has this huge parking lot, they can't make a reasonable profit. And so I think we need to re-examine that storm water fee and figure out how we can make it more business friendly.Nick Gosnell (12:35):All right. Well, I'm not going to get to all my questions, but I do want to ask about this and give you a chance to talk about yourself a little bit. How will you build consensus with the other members of the council?Charles Johnston (12:45):So, I have a proven track record of being able to do this. My background here in town is primarily as a nonprofit executive from 2013 to 2019, I ran Stage 9 and we grew the theater with the cooperation of volunteers and board members by, from a budget perspective, about 300%, um, excuse me, 150% three times. So we were able to increase that budget and the way we were able to do it is because we worked together. Ultimately, as a council member, I realized that it takes three to be able to play. So we have to get consensus between the three of us. Can you do that in a council meeting? Yes. Is there background relationships that have to be able to be built? Yes. And so I think there's relationship work to be done because from my perspective, relationships equal progress, because if you can have good relationships, it's going to make everything easier and progress better.

Transcript: Hutchinson City Council candidate Charles Johnston


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County EMS announced Monday that Monika Heller has been promoted to Special Projects Chief. 

Chief Heller will be taking on current and new projects that are vital to the growth and mission to provide high quality and up-to-date pre- hospital care for the citizens of Reno County. 

One project in particular that Chief Heller will be heading is the goal for Reno County EMS to become accredited by The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), a status that is recognized as the gold standard for ambulance services. 

"We can’t begin to fully describe Chief Heller’s dedication to our agency, our staff, and our community," the agency said Monday. "Whether she is analyzing data, working on process improvement projects, coordinating uniform purchases, teaching continuing education, planning PR events, treating patients, or working on billing, she is constantly tying up the loose ends to ensure we operate efficiently."

Chief Heller celebrated her 19th employment anniversary with Reno County EMS on Sunday. She began her career as a PRN EMT. 

She graduated with her Paramedic degree from HCC in 2005 and started her full time Paramedic career in 2006 on Team 3. Chief Heller served in that capacity until 2016 when she was promoted to Division Chief of Team 3. 

In the midst of all that, she also became a Registered Nurse, and is currently completing her bachelor’s degree in EMS Administration. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635178797042.jpeg" alt="HellerRenoCountyEMS.jpg" />
 <figcaption>HellerRenoCountyEMS.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County EMS announced Monday that Monika Heller has been promoted to Special Projects Chief. Chief Heller will be taking on current and new projects that are vital to the growth and mission to provide high quality and up-to-date pre- hospital care for the citizens of Reno County. One project in particular that Chief Heller will be heading is the goal for Reno County EMS to become accredited by The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), a status that is recognized as the gold standard for ambulance services. "We can’t begin to fully describe Chief Heller’s dedication to our agency, our staff, and our community," the agency said Monday. "Whether she is analyzing data, working on process improvement projects, coordinating uniform purchases, teaching continuing education, planning PR events, treating patients, or working on billing, she is constantly tying up the loose ends to ensure we operate efficiently."Chief Heller celebrated her 19th employment anniversary with Reno County EMS on Sunday. She began her career as a PRN EMT. She graduated with her Paramedic degree from HCC in 2005 and started her full time Paramedic career in 2006 on Team 3. Chief Heller served in that capacity until 2016 when she was promoted to Division Chief of Team 3. In the midst of all that, she also became a Registered Nurse, and is currently completing her bachelor’s degree in EMS Administration.

Heller promoted at Reno County EMS

Marla Jean Booher gets to start off. She is running for the at large seat on the Hutchinson city council. Good morning, Marla Jean, how are you?

Good morning. I'm doing Well. How are you doing?

Good so far. She hasn't seen these questions in advance, which is probably going to be, I would bet you that the other six candidates are all probably listening this morning because none of them have seen it. My intent is at least as much as possible to ask initial questions that are the same, but based on your answers, we'll see what we follow up with. That said, to lead off, everybody has an issue that is the reason that they decided to run for city council, so what city policy was the reason that led you to run for this seat?

It really wasn't a policy for me. It was engagement. I think we saw a lot of interest spiking in the past couple of years and maybe a little bit of fracture between the city and the community. And I, when I moved back here in 2009, I did so because where I was at in a big city, I was not feeling as engaged where I was. So, I have spent the last 12 years getting more involved in my community. So I could just be here today, doing exactly what I'm doing, and that is trying to impact our community to engage everyone in the decision making process at this level. And making sure that all voices are heard when decisions are made at the city council level.

All right. Second question. Do you currently owe any obligations to any tax entities for any years prior to this one? Obviously folks haven't paid for this year yet. Maybe in some cases, but, but anything that's outstanding from the past?

Okay. Did you vote in the last city council election in Hutchinson?

Okay. What can be done to reduce regulation on businesses coming to Hutchinson?

Well, that is something I'm learning more about. I do think that that's gonna take a lot of collaboration and delving into, I know that some of that stuff is set higher than the city council. So, I'm not sure how much of that is gonna be able to be changed. ButI do know that there are processes in place that are currently being used. I think we're seeing thatwith Mr. Cooley and the Stevens building, where they have appeals processes and things like that. I do know there is some wiggle room, but there is, there are some things that are, they just law, so...

Sure. So, what's a proper level of bonding for a city Hutchinson's size. In other words, how much debt should a city carry on a year to year basis?

That is something that I would have to educate myself on. I don't know that answer.

Okay. So, then if that's so, if you don't know what the amount of debt service potentially should be,obviously most folks don't, I guess I'll say it that way, but it seems like at the city level, a lot of the things that are planned,that's a big part of the budget is that they say, well, we have, we're planning to bond these projects. We're planning to borrow money, even if it's at low interest rates for this purpose. So, what's your position on saving for projects as opposed to bonding projects and, and it's, there's not necessarily a wrong answer here,especially in the inflationary economy, we have the dollars today probably cheaper than the ones tomorrow.

Yes. So I think that's obviously optimal to save rather than bond. I also think that if we are planning a project like that, it, it would be something that we'd be looking out in the future to. And that it would hopefully be something that we would have feedback from the community on. And that way we would have buy in and hopefully investment from the community, which then would not require bonding or maybe as much bonding. So it would be my hope that we could minimize bonding if not alleviate it at all, by planning ahead, rather than trying to do something more impulsive.

All right. So with that said, one of the things that gets bonded the most is street maintenance. So what length should the city's street maintenance program be? In other words, how many years should it be between times that folks see a crew on their individual street?

So I, we already have a plan in place. I think it's a rolling eight years for street maintenance. That's just now going through the first iteration. I think we give that time to play out and see how that's workingand how that goes. And if that's a good set time and, and the streets last that long, then I think we stick with it. You know, that is one thing I've noticed is we don't necessarily follow through or stick with something once we've put it in place. So let's let something play out that's been decided.

All right, Marla Jean Booher is running for the at large seat here in the Hutchinson city council, more with Marla Jean coming up.

This is maybe the most specific we will get with policy just because it's been such a big issue for the city over the last while, but are you for, or against taking the money from the federal government to put roundabouts in at the Woodie Seat Freeway? That issue has been up here for a couple of years. They've been trying to get federal grants to help with taking care of the issue with the bridges there, but at least according to engineering staff with the city getting it designed as a pair of roundabouts, rather than replacing the bridges is the best way to get to the federal funding. And so that's what the application was. They put an application in for that, it's not back yet, should be back shortly after election day and before the first of the year. But then the city has to decide if they're gonna accept the money or not. So what do you think about that issue?

Well that's kind of a loaded question, Nick. So, of course I think that any way we can alleviate taxpayer responsibility on that is great. I wish that we would have, again, engaged the community in the decision making process. There seems to be a lot of feedback that I have gotten in my campaigning that there just wasn't a lot of transparency in this and a lot of involvement in how this was gonna be addressed, how it was gonna be approached, what the timeline was. You know, I think whatever is decided, moving forward, the community has got to be involved. That is a must. It is a must.

If there's been a theme for current mayor, Steve Garza, since he took over as mayor, that's been itI suppose, is that the community just needs to know more about what they're doing with their government. That again is a, it's a hard thing because at least based upon the framework that has been available to us in public meetings, and that doesn't necessarily mean that that's everything that was said to everybody, but it's what I can talk about that it is according to engineering staff, much less expensive to put in the roundabouts than it would be, to put the bridges in because you wouldn't win the federal grant just to replace bridges. At least that's the, that's the theory now, practically speaking, I don't know whether that's true or not, but that's the reason why it's an issue for the city council.

May, I speak to that last point? Go ahead. I'm sorry. That very well may be. I do, I do feel though in my own experience that even if that is the outcome had that conversation just been had up front, and honesty and openness been had, I, that there could have, there just, would've been a lot more comfort in what's happening. I, I think it's a lot easier to accept a decision when the expectation is laid out from the very beginning.

Sure. So moving on, how do we fix the infrastructure under the city's streets? A storm water utility fee is in place. We've got that large drainage project that they're still waiting on approval for from the railroads to try to figure out exactly what the route is going to be. How do you pay for those long term infrastructure projects in the city?

Listen, we have to invest in ourselves. We just do, we have to, and we have to accept that when we talk about attracting businesses, that part of that is making ourselves move in ready, you know, a business doesn't wanna come in here and clean up something that we haven't been taking care of. I know it's not a popular opinion, but it was something that we weren't taking care of for a long time. And so it's kind of like the roof on your house. If you haven't been maintaining it for 25 years and you, and you get a hole in it, it's gonna cost you a lot more to fix it. If you just had been maintaining it for that 25 years or what have you. So hopefully we get to a point where the fee becomes more and more nominal and it just becomes a maintenance situation. But until we get to that point, we are, we are back maintaining at this point. And the first iteration of that fee I believe was used to build up our what's it called around the river, the levee. So, you know, we had to do that first before we could start in on the actual infrastructure, so...

Sure. How will you build consensus with the other members of the council? When you disagree, will, will you do it behind closed doors or in the public meeting?

So, first and foremost, I think you have to build a relationship with each one individually that builds trust that builds confidence and respect. And I think those conversations that you're referring to should happen in private, but then when you get out in, in public, you are to be professional and a unified front. And you could probably respectfully disagree, but to have further conversation should probably respectfully be also done in private.

Is more government or less government generally better. And why, and that's the last question this morning.

Well, that probably depends on what we're talking about. I don't think that's a universal application. If I had a specific, I'd probably have a better answer for you, but I think to universally apply that across the board is probably irresponsible.

Marla Jean Booher, running for city council at the at large seat and she joins us here on KWBW, Hutchinson, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609255107994.jpeg" alt="City hall.jpg" />
 <figcaption>City hall.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Nick Gosnell (00:00):Marla Jean Booher gets to start off. She is running for the at large seat on the Hutchinson city council. Good morning, Marla Jean, how are you?Marla Jean Booher (00:07):Good morning. I'm doing Well. How are you doing?Nick Gosnell (00:08):Good so far. She hasn't seen these questions in advance, which is probably going to be, I would bet you that the other six candidates are all probably listening this morning because none of them have seen it. My intent is at least as much as possible to ask initial questions that are the same, but based on your answers, we'll see what we follow up with. That said, to lead off, everybody has an issue that is the reason that they decided to run for city council, so what city policy was the reason that led you to run for this seat?Marla Jean Booher (00:43):It really wasn't a policy for me. It was engagement. I think we saw a lot of interest spiking in the past couple of years and maybe a little bit of fracture between the city and the community. And I, when I moved back here in 2009, I did so because where I was at in a big city, I was not feeling as engaged where I was. So, I have spent the last 12 years getting more involved in my community. So I could just be here today, doing exactly what I'm doing, and that is trying to impact our community to engage everyone in the decision making process at this level. And making sure that all voices are heard when decisions are made at the city council level.Nick Gosnell (01:32):All right. Second question. Do you currently owe any obligations to any tax entities for any years prior to this one? Obviously folks haven't paid for this year yet. Maybe in some cases, but, but anything that's outstanding from the past?Marla Jean Booher (01:46):No, I do not.Nick Gosnell (01:47):Okay. Did you vote in the last city council election in Hutchinson?Marla Jean Booher (01:51):Yes, I did.Nick Gosnell (01:52):Okay. What can be done to reduce regulation on businesses coming to Hutchinson?Marla Jean Booher (01:59):Well, that is something I'm learning more about. I do think that that's gonna take a lot of collaboration and delving into, I know that some of that stuff is set higher than the city council. So, I'm not sure how much of that is gonna be able to be changed. ButI do know that there are processes in place that are currently being used. I think we're seeing thatwith Mr. Cooley and the Stevens building, where they have appeals processes and things like that. I do know there is some wiggle room, but there is, there are some things that are, they just law, so...Nick Gosnell (02:37):Sure. So, what's a proper level of bonding for a city Hutchinson's size. In other words, how much debt should a city carry on a year to year basis?Marla Jean Booher (02:47):That is something that I would have to educate myself on. I don't know that answer.Nick Gosnell (02:52):Okay. So, then if that's so, if you don't know what the amount of debt service potentially should be,obviously most folks don't, I guess I'll say it that way, but it seems like at the city level, a lot of the things that are planned,that's a big part of the budget is that they say, well, we have, we're planning to bond these projects. We're planning to borrow money, even if it's at low interest rates for this purpose. So, what's your position on saving for projects as opposed to bonding projects and, and it's, there's not necessarily a wrong answer here,especially in the inflationary economy, we have the dollars today probably cheaper than the ones tomorrow.Marla Jean Booher (03:40):Yes. So I think that's obviously optimal to save rather than bond. I also think that if we are planning a project like that, it, it would be something that we'd be looking out in the future to. And that it would hopefully be something that we would have feedback from the community on. And that way we would have buy in and hopefully investment from the community, which then would not require bonding or maybe as much bonding. So it would be my hope that we could minimize bonding if not alleviate it at all, by planning ahead, rather than trying to do something more impulsive.Nick Gosnell (04:16):All right. So with that said, one of the things that gets bonded the most is street maintenance. So what length should the city's street maintenance program be? In other words, how many years should it be between times that folks see a crew on their individual street?Marla Jean Booher (04:33):So I, we already have a plan in place. I think it's a rolling eight years for street maintenance. That's just now going through the first iteration. I think we give that time to play out and see how that's workingand how that goes. And if that's a good set time and, and the streets last that long, then I think we stick with it. You know, that is one thing I've noticed is we don't necessarily follow through or stick with something once we've put it in place. So let's let something play out that's been decided.Nick Gosnell (05:03):All right, Marla Jean Booher is running for the at large seat here in the Hutchinson city council, more with Marla Jean coming up.Nick Gosnell (05:09):This is maybe the most specific we will get with policy just because it's been such a big issue for the city over the last while, but are you for, or against taking the money from the federal government to put roundabouts in at the Woodie Seat Freeway? That issue has been up here for a couple of years. They've been trying to get federal grants to help with taking care of the issue with the bridges there, but at least according to engineering staff with the city getting it designed as a pair of roundabouts, rather than replacing the bridges is the best way to get to the federal funding. And so that's what the application was. They put an application in for that, it's not back yet, should be back shortly after election day and before the first of the year. But then the city has to decide if they're gonna accept the money or not. So what do you think about that issue?Marla Jean Booher (06:08):Well that's kind of a loaded question, Nick. So, of course I think that any way we can alleviate taxpayer responsibility on that is great. I wish that we would have, again, engaged the community in the decision making process. There seems to be a lot of feedback that I have gotten in my campaigning that there just wasn't a lot of transparency in this and a lot of involvement in how this was gonna be addressed, how it was gonna be approached, what the timeline was. You know, I think whatever is decided, moving forward, the community has got to be involved. That is a must. It is a must.Nick Gosnell (07:10):If there's been a theme for current mayor, Steve Garza, since he took over as mayor, that's been itI suppose, is that the community just needs to know more about what they're doing with their government. That again is a, it's a hard thing because at least based upon the framework that has been available to us in public meetings, and that doesn't necessarily mean that that's everything that was said to everybody, but it's what I can talk about that it is according to engineering staff, much less expensive to put in the roundabouts than it would be, to put the bridges in because you wouldn't win the federal grant just to replace bridges. At least that's the, that's the theory now, practically speaking, I don't know whether that's true or not, but that's the reason why it's an issue for the city council.Marla Jean Booher (08:20):May, I speak to that last point? Go ahead. I'm sorry. That very well may be. I do, I do feel though in my own experience that even if that is the outcome had that conversation just been had up front, and honesty and openness been had, I, that there could have, there just, would've been a lot more comfort in what's happening. I, I think it's a lot easier to accept a decision when the expectation is laid out from the very beginning.Nick Gosnell (08:51):Sure. So moving on, how do we fix the infrastructure under the city's streets? A storm water utility fee is in place. We've got that large drainage project that they're still waiting on approval for from the railroads to try to figure out exactly what the route is going to be. How do you pay for those long term infrastructure projects in the city?Marla Jean Booher (09:15):Listen, we have to invest in ourselves. We just do, we have to, and we have to accept that when we talk about attracting businesses, that part of that is making ourselves move in ready, you know, a business doesn't wanna come in here and clean up something that we haven't been taking care of. I know it's not a popular opinion, but it was something that we weren't taking care of for a long time. And so it's kind of like the roof on your house. If you haven't been maintaining it for 25 years and you, and you get a hole in it, it's gonna cost you a lot more to fix it. If you just had been maintaining it for that 25 years or what have you. So hopefully we get to a point where the fee becomes more and more nominal and it just becomes a maintenance situation. But until we get to that point, we are, we are back maintaining at this point. And the first iteration of that fee I believe was used to build up our what's it called around the river, the levee. So, you know, we had to do that first before we could start in on the actual infrastructure, so...Nick Gosnell (10:32):Sure. How will you build consensus with the other members of the council? When you disagree, will, will you do it behind closed doors or in the public meeting?Marla Jean Booher (10:42):So, first and foremost, I think you have to build a relationship with each one individually that builds trust that builds confidence and respect. And I think those conversations that you're referring to should happen in private, but then when you get out in, in public, you are to be professional and a unified front. And you could probably respectfully disagree, but to have further conversation should probably respectfully be also done in private.Nick Gosnell (11:22):Is more government or less government generally better. And why, and that's the last question this morning.Marla Jean Booher (11:28):Well, that probably depends on what we're talking about. I don't think that's a universal application. If I had a specific, I'd probably have a better answer for you, but I think to universally apply that across the board is probably irresponsible.Nick Gosnell (11:44):Marla Jean Booher, running for city council at the at large seat and she joins us here on KWBW, Hutchinson, Kansas.

Transcript: Hutchinson City Council candidate Marla Jean Booher

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Archer Daniels Midland hopes to continue the strong year when they release their third quarter earnings report on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The oil seed company posted two strong quarters to start 2021 and reported net earnings of $754 million in the second quarter. Earnings total $1.33 per share compared with $0.85 the previous year.&nbsp;

The company says it expects to have a strong quarter and for that momentum to last through the fiscal year.

<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/2020/1/1580159000381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Archer Daniels Midland hopes to continue the strong year when they release their third quarter earnings report on Tuesday.&nbsp;The oil seed company posted two strong quarters to start 2021 and reported net earnings of $754 million in the second quarter. Earnings total $1.33 per share compared with $0.85 the previous year.&nbsp;The company says it expects to have a strong quarter and for that momentum to last through the fiscal year.<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;

ADM to release third quarter earnings Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Monday that a portion of State Fair Road between Main and Plum will be closed Tuesday for street repairs.

Access to the alleyways behind the Main Street businesses in that area will stay open.

The road will reopen before the end of the day, weather permitting.

<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/2021/5/1621458688106.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Monday that a portion of State Fair Road between Main and Plum will be closed Tuesday for street repairs.Access to the alleyways behind the Main Street businesses in that area will stay open.The road will reopen before the end of the day, weather permitting.<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.

State Fair Road closed on Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 and the Hutchinson Community College Automotive Technology Program will host a special event to provide automotive inspections to frontline workers at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center on Thursday, October 28.

&nbsp;“The event is a Community Service benefit to our frontline staff by the USD 308 and HCC Automotive Technologies Program.&nbsp; Due to the pandemic, the hours our staff put in doesn't allow them a lot of time to take care of routine maintenance or inspection of their vehicles,” Cory Griffiths, Safety Officer for Hutchinson Regional Medical Center said.

The event will take place in two sessions, one in the morning from 8:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., and an afternoon session from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The free inspections will take place at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Annex, and be performed by students of the USD 308 and Hutchinson Community College Automotive Technology Program. During the inspections students will check windshields, mirrors, tail lights, engine oil, tires, and other important aspects of automotive upkeep. HRMC staff then will be provided an inspection sheet indicating areas of concern that they can use to schedule repairs with their automotive service provider.

“This is a unique opportunity for USD 308, Hutchinson Community College and Hutchinson Regional Medical Center to collaborate together for a fun event! Our students will be able to put the skills learned in the program to work while offering auto service checks to Hutchinson Regional Medical center frontline workers.” Travis Riebel, Director of Hutchinson Career &amp; Technical Academy said..

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1570555463894.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 and the Hutchinson Community College Automotive Technology Program will host a special event to provide automotive inspections to frontline workers at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center on Thursday, October 28.&nbsp;“The event is a Community Service benefit to our frontline staff by the USD 308 and HCC Automotive Technologies Program.&nbsp; Due to the pandemic, the hours our staff put in doesn't allow them a lot of time to take care of routine maintenance or inspection of their vehicles,” Cory Griffiths, Safety Officer for Hutchinson Regional Medical Center said.The event will take place in two sessions, one in the morning from 8:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m., and an afternoon session from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The free inspections will take place at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Annex, and be performed by students of the USD 308 and Hutchinson Community College Automotive Technology Program. During the inspections students will check windshields, mirrors, tail lights, engine oil, tires, and other important aspects of automotive upkeep. HRMC staff then will be provided an inspection sheet indicating areas of concern that they can use to schedule repairs with their automotive service provider.“This is a unique opportunity for USD 308, Hutchinson Community College and Hutchinson Regional Medical Center to collaborate together for a fun event! Our students will be able to put the skills learned in the program to work while offering auto service checks to Hutchinson Regional Medical center frontline workers.” Travis Riebel, Director of Hutchinson Career &amp; Technical Academy said..<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 and HutchCC to provide automotive check up for HRMC staff

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— It is a light agenda for the Reno County Commission when they meet Tuesday.

The commission will take action on declaring several items from public works surplus and have them auctioned off, and offer a letter of support for Disability Supports of the Great Plains to the Kansas Department of Transportation for an operating assistance grant. Both matters will be a part of the consent agenda.&nbsp;

The only other matter is a report from Jackson Swearer of StartUp Hutch, who will provide a&nbsp; report on the business start up agency. The county budgeted $82,500 to the agency for the 2022 budget year.

Tuesdays meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Public Works Conference Room.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975074208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— It is a light agenda for the Reno County Commission when they meet Tuesday.The commission will take action on declaring several items from public works surplus and have them auctioned off, and offer a letter of support for Disability Supports of the Great Plains to the Kansas Department of Transportation for an operating assistance grant. Both matters will be a part of the consent agenda.&nbsp;The only other matter is a report from Jackson Swearer of StartUp Hutch, who will provide a&nbsp; report on the business start up agency. The county budgeted $82,500 to the agency for the 2022 budget year.Tuesdays meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Public Works Conference Room.<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;

Reno Co. Commission meets Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — October is Car Care Month, which takes on a whole new meaning this year in the wake of the pandemic.

"We urge motorists to pay attention to those maintenance issues with their vehicles and make sure that they are ready for winter," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Then, we throw in the fact that a lot of motorists are keeping their vehicles longer. According to IHS Markit, the average age of vehicles on U.S. roadways topped 12 years last year for the first time ever."

Previous AAA research shows that vehicles 10 years and older are twice as likely to end up stranded on the side of the road compared to newer vehicles and on top of that, the odds of needing a tow quadruples.

"Part of that right now is chip shortages limiting supply of new vehicles," Steward said. "I think everybody can see that when they drive by a car dealership these days. There's just such a small amount of inventory in stock. People are forced, in some cases, to keep their cars longer. Other people are doing that by choice."

More than a third of Americans forget or delay recommended maintenance, ultimately paying more for repairs when the vehicle does break down. 

"Make sure that the battery, tires, engine elements and then your fluids are the four key aspects that we suggest you look at," Steward said. 

Most of all, set an appointment with a mechanic you trust. A professional and thorough vehicle inspection can help reduce the chance of a serious breakdown, which is not only an inconvenience, but more costly than preventive maintenance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635162635368.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — October is Car Care Month, which takes on a whole new meaning this year in the wake of the pandemic."We urge motorists to pay attention to those maintenance issues with their vehicles and make sure that they are ready for winter," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Then, we throw in the fact that a lot of motorists are keeping their vehicles longer. According to IHS Markit, the average age of vehicles on U.S. roadways topped 12 years last year for the first time ever."Previous AAA research shows that vehicles 10 years and older are twice as likely to end up stranded on the side of the road compared to newer vehicles and on top of that, the odds of needing a tow quadruples."Part of that right now is chip shortages limiting supply of new vehicles," Steward said. "I think everybody can see that when they drive by a car dealership these days. There's just such a small amount of inventory in stock. People are forced, in some cases, to keep their cars longer. Other people are doing that by choice."More than a third of Americans forget or delay recommended maintenance, ultimately paying more for repairs when the vehicle does break down. "Make sure that the battery, tires, engine elements and then your fluids are the four key aspects that we suggest you look at," Steward said. Most of all, set an appointment with a mechanic you trust. A professional and thorough vehicle inspection can help reduce the chance of a serious breakdown, which is not only an inconvenience, but more costly than preventive maintenance.

AAA: Car Care Month provides reminder to be ready for winter

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 12th annual Pumpkinaries from <a href="https://www.khmyfm.com/">My 93-1</a> are tonight from 5-7 at 9th and Main in Hutchinson.

This year's event will be a little different from years past.

Parents are still encouraged to bring their children in costume, but all attendees will stay in their vehicles as they receive goodie bags.

Drivers are asked to enter the alley behind the station at 825 N. Main from 9th and Washington. The drive-thru will run south, with drivers exiting on the 8th Avenue side of the station.

The 12th annual Pumpkinaries are made possible by Rise Up Reno Prevention Network, Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q, Allen Samuels, T.O. Haas Tire &amp; Auto, ChemDry of Reno County and Devore Farms.

<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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634827082096.jpeg" alt="Pumpkinaries will be a drive-thru event this year." />
 <figcaption>Pumpkinaries will be a drive-thru event this year.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 12th annual Pumpkinaries from <a href="https://www.khmyfm.com/">My 93-1</a> are tonight from 5-7 at 9th and Main in Hutchinson.This year's event will be a little different from years past.Parents are still encouraged to bring their children in costume, but all attendees will stay in their vehicles as they receive goodie bags.Drivers are asked to enter the alley behind the station at 825 N. Main from 9th and Washington. The drive-thru will run south, with drivers exiting on the 8th Avenue side of the station.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634827029665.png" alt="Please enter at 9th and Washington. Enter the north side of the alley and follow it south, then exit on the 8th Avenue side." />
 <figcaption>Please enter at 9th and Washington. Enter the north side of the alley and follow it south, then exit on the 8th Avenue side.</figcaption>
 </figure>The 12th annual Pumpkinaries are made possible by Rise Up Reno Prevention Network, Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q, Allen Samuels, T.O. Haas Tire &amp; Auto, ChemDry of Reno County and Devore Farms.<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;&nbsp;

Pumpkinaries tonight: What you need to know


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Housing Commission will meet Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers Workroom at City Hall.

On the agenda is the regular housing dashboard report for September, a Featured Neighborhood Report from Adam Stewart and reports from Ryan Hvitløk on the Hutchinson Land Bank and the CDBG Grant for Creekside. The Creekside grant is a $256,000 grant with $25,000 utilized as of last month's meeting. Landlords would have a 25 percent match to utilize the funds. There are about 75 eligible homes in the target area. Homes need to be completed by January, 2022. With the contractor bid process and ordering supplies, the time limit is crucial. Any unused money has to be returned to the state.

Hvitløk will also have updated comments for the board on the different types of COVID relief aid, including the American Rescue Plan Act, Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance Program and the Kansas Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The discussion will also continue on the sidewalk repair program. The City Council has provided $20,000 for its portion of the program and many ideas have been floated as to how to get homeowners and property owners to cost share to make that money go farther.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605747689813.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Housing Commission will meet Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers Workroom at City Hall.On the agenda is the regular housing dashboard report for September, a Featured Neighborhood Report from Adam Stewart and reports from Ryan Hvitløk on the Hutchinson Land Bank and the CDBG Grant for Creekside. The Creekside grant is a $256,000 grant with $25,000 utilized as of last month's meeting. Landlords would have a 25 percent match to utilize the funds. There are about 75 eligible homes in the target area. Homes need to be completed by January, 2022. With the contractor bid process and ordering supplies, the time limit is crucial. Any unused money has to be returned to the state.Hvitløk will also have updated comments for the board on the different types of COVID relief aid, including the American Rescue Plan Act, Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance Program and the Kansas Homeowner Assistance Fund.The discussion will also continue on the sidewalk repair program. The City Council has provided $20,000 for its portion of the program and many ideas have been floated as to how to get homeowners and property owners to cost share to make that money go farther.

Housing commission to meet Wednesday

As we celebrate the 150th birthday of Hutchinson and Reno County, we want to go through the years, decade by decade, to see how things have changed and — remarkably — how they have stayed the same. This would not be possible without the efforts of Steve Harmon, the Reno County Museum, and the Hutchinson Public Library, who have made a great effort to supply us with the information and photos that you’ll see in this 15-part series. We hope you enjoy it.

We invite you to help us with this trip down memory lane. If you have specific memories of our city or county's growth&nbsp;since the 1960s, or have photos you'd like to share, send them to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:HutchPost@eagleradio.net">HutchPost@eagleradio.net</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Many changes were a part of the 1960s, including a new home for Hutchinson High School, air passenger service in Hutchinson and the start of what is now one of the premier museums in the United States. That and more as we look back on the 1960s.

1960: Dillons Stores looks for an easier way for shoppers who need just a few things when it opens its first Kwik Shop. The partnership continues through 2018 when Kroger sold off the chain.&nbsp;

There are conflicting dates as to when this project was completed, but in 1961, the Farmers Commission grain elevator was in full operation. It is still the second-longest single-head house elevator in the world.

Sen. John F. Kennedy speaks at the Sports Arena.

Captain Kangaroo entertains a large crowd of children at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

A gas explosion rips through the community of Haven, destroying the Haven Journal and two other buildings.

Dillons expands with a new distribution center on the city's east side.

Air passenger service comes to Hutchinson as Central Airlines. Eventually, the airline becomes Frontier Airlines.

The Hutchinson Fire Department builds a new training tower in Sylvan Park.

High school students in Hutchinson have a new home as the new Hutchinson High School is built at 13th and Severance.

1961: The Hutchinson Planetarium is opened by Patty Carey in a chicken coop at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Her love of space and the vision of others is now on full display at the Cosmosphere, which is now one of the premier space museums in the world. The museum is one of just two that has a spacecraft flown in all three Cold War programs: Mercury, Gemini and Apollo.

In an effort to preserve the history of Hutchinson and Reno County, the Reno County Historical Society was formed.

Although you still have to stand in line for some state and county business, it was in 1961 that the state began to mail out license plates to residents.

A military plane crashes in Reno County. Crews were able to parachute to safety.

Hutchinson taxpayers form the Taxpayers League to promote better government.

1962: Fairfield High School opened in Abbyville. Today it is located just north of the community of Langdon.

Softball-sized hail hammers the area, causing more than $6 million in damages. The total would be $55 million in 2021.

Although it is well within the city limits today, Union Valley residents fought against annexation by the city in 1962.

Construction of a dam begins in southern Reno County in what would eventually become Cheney Reservoir.

Former President Harry S. Truman speaks at the Sports Arena.

&nbsp;1963: Many great events have come and gone from Reno County, but many still stand today, including the Abbyville Frontier Days Rodeo, which started in 1963.

The first Reno County Museum opened in 1963. The museum was located in several rooms of the home of Goldie Maupin, who was president of the historical society at that time.

Consolidation of school districts continues as county districts are redrawn again.

IRS agents raid the Eagles Club and seize slot machines.

More than 48,000 residents receive the Sabin polio vaccine in an effort to eradicate infantile paralysis.

1964: Still entertaining today, the Hutchinson Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1964.

As consolidation of school districts continues, voters in Arlington approve the closing of Arlington High School.

The police department makes the decision to stop escorting funeral processions.&nbsp;

Dog owners are unhappy with the city’s new ordinance that requires all dogs to be in a fenced yard or on a leash.

As the Cold War escalates, Kansas State University advises the public about when it would be safe to exit a fallout shelter if the U.S. were attacked.

1965: Trinity High School is built at 17th and Lorraine.

After standing proud in Hutchinson for so many years, the Bisonte Hotel catches fire during demolition, bringing a quick end to the hotel's demise.&nbsp;

Flooding hits the town of Nickerson as residents are forced to use sandbags to protect property.

The Ultra Van powered by a Corvair engine and transaxle was designed by David Peterson in the early '60s. These units were produced in limited quantities by Ultra, Inc. of Hutchinson, Kansas, until June of 1970.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hutchinson News was awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 1965.

After years of military service, the old naval base has new life as it becomes the Hutchinson Air Base Industrial Tract. Today it is still home to various industries, The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and a popular glider port.

Hutchinson Junior College is taken under the reins of the state. The college had been run as a division of the Hutchinson School District. The college and the high school still have a close working relationship today.

Unable to secure more space downtown, Sears builds the Sears Shopping Plaza at the corner of 1st and Adams.

The planetarium moves to the campus of Hutchinson Junior College, now the site of the Cosmosphere.

After four years of construction, Cheney Reservoir is finished.

1966: Local doctors were found to have blocked free chest X-rays for five years, citing opposition to government encroachment into the private practice of medicine.

A new innovation aids police in catching speeders as Hutchinson begins using radar.

In what was the driest year on record, Reno County received just a little more than 13 inches of rain for the year.

The Human Relations Commission was formed in 1966 at the urging of the NAACP.

Mildred Baughman becomes the first woman in the state of Kansas to hold the office of county commissioners. She went on to serve for 25 years.

A new thing called a "computer" kickstarts a business in Hutchinson called the Data Center Inc.

The Dillons Northgate Shopping Center is built at 30th and Plum.

1967: Unable to receive any help from Reno County tax dollars, the Reno County Museum moves to Haven.

People read her advice column for years, but in 1967, Ann Landers spoke in Hutchinson.

The year after six residents die in the Broadacres County Home, Reno County commissioners approve air conditioning for the facility.

The Daisy BB gun shooting championships are held at Gowans Stadium July 7-9.

Old brine wells erupt in South Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Haven postal carrier Homer Astle retires after carrying mail on the same route for 46 years.

A danger that still exists today, a large prairie fire consumes the northern part of Reno County.

1968: A runaway train leaves Hutchinson heading west. The train travels 78 miles before it is derailed in the small town of Kinsley.

Wheat continues to be the crop in Reno County with a record 11.4 million bushels harvested.

Reno County servicemen write home about the horrors of the Vietnam War as local casualties increase.&nbsp;

USD 312 patrons approve a $1 million bond issue to build a new high school.

A popular event still held each year in Nickerson, the first Klear Nearly Days event is held in 1968.

The Fair Housing Ordinance was passed by the city of Hutchinson, outlawing discrimination in housing.

The Hutchinson Community College debate team wins the national title.&nbsp;

Thousands of trees die from Dutch elm disease.

The reformatory supervisor resigns after months of controversy over financial irregularities and an investigation by the governor's panel.

1969: What might have been for Hutchinson, no one will ever know for sure, but the new interstate system route does not go through Hutchinson, instead taking a route to the east through Newton.

The Board of Trade diminishes use of the Wiley Building, eventually closing. When the Wiley Building was renovated, 2013 papers, maps and most everything that was a part of the board was still there.

New telephones allow Hutchinson residents to make their own long-distance phone calls.

Vietnam protesters march down Main Street and hold a rally in Sylvan Park.

In what was finally an end to consolidation in the county, the number of school districts is reduced to six. There were 88 in 1948.

Addition: We are asking for your memories of events that happened up to the current date. Here are some of the things one reader shared with us about the 1950s and 1960s — Kathy says some of her memories include:

Sitting on Random Road watching movies playing at the drive-in.

Dragging Main with the turnaround at Sandy’s Drive-In.

Having the Morgan Grade School teacher walk the entire class to Dairy Queen on the last day of school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629504018461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As we celebrate the 150th birthday of Hutchinson and Reno County, we want to go through the years, decade by decade, to see how things have changed and — remarkably — how they have stayed the same. This would not be possible without the efforts of Steve Harmon, the Reno County Museum, and the Hutchinson Public Library, who have made a great effort to supply us with the information and photos that you’ll see in this 15-part series. We hope you enjoy it.We invite you to help us with this trip down memory lane. If you have specific memories of our city or county's growth&nbsp;since the 1960s, or have photos you'd like to share, send them to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:HutchPost@eagleradio.net">HutchPost@eagleradio.net</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many changes were a part of the 1960s, including a new home for Hutchinson High School, air passenger service in Hutchinson and the start of what is now one of the premier museums in the United States. That and more as we look back on the 1960s.1960: Dillons Stores looks for an easier way for shoppers who need just a few things when it opens its first Kwik Shop. The partnership continues through 2018 when Kroger sold off the chain.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634165961952.jpeg" alt="Kwik Shop - New Prototype Store - 507 E. 30th - 1960. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Kwik Shop - New Prototype Store - 507 E. 30th - 1960. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>There are conflicting dates as to when this project was completed, but in 1961, the Farmers Commission grain elevator was in full operation. It is still the second-longest single-head house elevator in the world.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634072902572.jpeg" alt="Farmers Commission Co. - Grain Elevator B - 6th &amp; Halstead. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Farmers Commission Co. - Grain Elevator B - 6th &amp; Halstead. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>Sen. John F. Kennedy speaks at the Sports Arena.Captain Kangaroo entertains a large crowd of children at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.A gas explosion rips through the community of Haven, destroying the Haven Journal and two other buildings.Dillons expands with a new distribution center on the city's east side.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166251432.jpeg" alt="J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons - Distribution Center - Architect's Painting as it was constructed in 1960 - 2700 E. 4th (Grocery Whse. Offices, Produce &amp; Frozen Food Whse.). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons - Distribution Center - Architect's Painting as it was constructed in 1960 - 2700 E. 4th (Grocery Whse. Offices, Produce &amp; Frozen Food Whse.). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>Air passenger service comes to Hutchinson as Central Airlines. Eventually, the airline becomes Frontier Airlines.The Hutchinson Fire Department builds a new training tower in Sylvan Park.High school students in Hutchinson have a new home as the new Hutchinson High School is built at 13th and Severance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634072861636.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson High School Aerial at Opening &amp; Sports Arena - June 1960. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson High School Aerial at Opening &amp; Sports Arena - June 1960. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>1961: The Hutchinson Planetarium is opened by Patty Carey in a chicken coop at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Her love of space and the vision of others is now on full display at the Cosmosphere, which is now one of the premier space museums in the world. The museum is one of just two that has a spacecraft flown in all three Cold War programs: Mercury, Gemini and Apollo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166653512.jpeg" alt="Planetarium - Patty Carey (right) at original fairgrounds location - c. 1962. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Planetarium - Patty Carey (right) at original fairgrounds location - c. 1962. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>In an effort to preserve the history of Hutchinson and Reno County, the Reno County Historical Society was formed.Although you still have to stand in line for some state and county business, it was in 1961 that the state began to mail out license plates to residents.A military plane crashes in Reno County. Crews were able to parachute to safety.Hutchinson taxpayers form the Taxpayers League to promote better government.1962: Fairfield High School opened in Abbyville. Today it is located just north of the community of Langdon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595965876065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Softball-sized hail hammers the area, causing more than $6 million in damages. The total would be $55 million in 2021.Although it is well within the city limits today, Union Valley residents fought against annexation by the city in 1962.Construction of a dam begins in southern Reno County in what would eventually become Cheney Reservoir.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166566897.jpeg" alt="Cheney Dam flood gate. Photo courtesy of Floyd Sounders." />
 <figcaption>Cheney Dam flood gate. Photo courtesy of Floyd Sounders.</figcaption>
 </figure>Former President Harry S. Truman speaks at the Sports Arena.&nbsp;1963: Many great events have come and gone from Reno County, but many still stand today, including the Abbyville Frontier Days Rodeo, which started in 1963.The first Reno County Museum opened in 1963. The museum was located in several rooms of the home of Goldie Maupin, who was president of the historical society at that time.The first Reno County 4H fair was held.Consolidation of school districts continues as county districts are redrawn again.IRS agents raid the Eagles Club and seize slot machines.More than 48,000 residents receive the Sabin polio vaccine in an effort to eradicate infantile paralysis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166686551.jpeg" alt="Clowntown Kiddieland - 1960 - Train Ride (Thad Stevens conductor). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Clowntown Kiddieland - 1960 - Train Ride (Thad Stevens conductor). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>1964: Still entertaining today, the Hutchinson Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1964.As consolidation of school districts continues, voters in Arlington approve the closing of Arlington High School.The police department makes the decision to stop escorting funeral processions.&nbsp;Dog owners are unhappy with the city’s new ordinance that requires all dogs to be in a fenced yard or on a leash.As the Cold War escalates, Kansas State University advises the public about when it would be safe to exit a fallout shelter if the U.S. were attacked.1965: Trinity High School is built at 17th and Lorraine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073623550.jpeg" alt="Trinity High School - 1400 E. 17th - 1965 (At completion by N.F. English Const.). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Trinity High School - 1400 E. 17th - 1965 (At completion by N.F. English Const.). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>After standing proud in Hutchinson for so many years, the Bisonte Hotel catches fire during demolition, bringing a quick end to the hotel's demise.&nbsp;Flooding hits the town of Nickerson as residents are forced to use sandbags to protect property.The Ultra Van powered by a Corvair engine and transaxle was designed by David Peterson in the early '60s. These units were produced in limited quantities by Ultra, Inc. of Hutchinson, Kansas, until June of 1970.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166737095.jpeg" alt="Ultra Van at Airbase Mfg. Plant - 1965 to 1969. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Ultra Van at Airbase Mfg. Plant - 1965 to 1969. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hutchinson News was awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 1965.After years of military service, the old naval base has new life as it becomes the Hutchinson Air Base Industrial Tract. Today it is still home to various industries, The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and a popular glider port.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073042325.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Airbase Industrial Tract (H.A.B.I.T) at old Naval Air Station (aerial) - c. 1960s. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Airbase Industrial Tract (H.A.B.I.T) at old Naval Air Station (aerial) - c. 1960s. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Junior College is taken under the reins of the state. The college had been run as a division of the Hutchinson School District. The college and the high school still have a close working relationship today.Unable to secure more space downtown, Sears builds the Sears Shopping Plaza at the corner of 1st and Adams.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073499749.jpeg" alt="Sears Plaza Center (New) - 15 N. Adams - c. 1968 (with Jack &amp; Jill Grocery #1 - 5 S. Adams). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Sears Plaza Center (New) - 15 N. Adams - c. 1968 (with Jack &amp; Jill Grocery #1 - 5 S. Adams). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>The planetarium moves to the campus of Hutchinson Junior College, now the site of the Cosmosphere.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634167010072.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Jr. College - Kennedy Library &amp; Planetarium finished construction - 11th &amp; Plum - 1965 (Later Became Cosmosphere). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Jr. College - Kennedy Library &amp; Planetarium finished construction - 11th &amp; Plum - 1965 (Later Became Cosmosphere). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>After four years of construction, Cheney Reservoir is finished.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073322260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>1966: Local doctors were found to have blocked free chest X-rays for five years, citing opposition to government encroachment into the private practice of medicine.A new innovation aids police in catching speeders as Hutchinson begins using radar.In what was the driest year on record, Reno County received just a little more than 13 inches of rain for the year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634167055991.jpeg" alt="Main Street Looking South from First - 1963 (showing B &amp; G Hosiery - 28 N. Main, Anthony's - 22-24 N. Main &amp; Gordons - 18 N. Main). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Main Street Looking South from First - 1963 (showing B &amp; G Hosiery - 28 N. Main, Anthony's - 22-24 N. Main &amp; Gordons - 18 N. Main). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Human Relations Commission was formed in 1966 at the urging of the NAACP.Mildred Baughman becomes the first woman in the state of Kansas to hold the office of county commissioners. She went on to serve for 25 years.A new thing called a "computer" kickstarts a business in Hutchinson called the Data Center Inc.The Dillons Northgate Shopping Center is built at 30th and Plum.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634072991998.jpeg" alt="Dillons Northgate - 30th &amp; Plum - 1966 (old Kwik Shop move). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Dillons Northgate - 30th &amp; Plum - 1966 (old Kwik Shop move). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>1967: Unable to receive any help from Reno County tax dollars, the Reno County Museum moves to Haven.People read her advice column for years, but in 1967, Ann Landers spoke in Hutchinson.The year after six residents die in the Broadacres County Home, Reno County commissioners approve air conditioning for the facility.The Daisy BB gun shooting championships are held at Gowans Stadium July 7-9.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634741339212.jpeg" alt="Daisy National BB Gun Championships. Photo courtesy of Jerry Regier, provided by the Daisy Company, Lawrence Taylor." />
 <figcaption>Daisy National BB Gun Championships. Photo courtesy of Jerry Regier, provided by the Daisy Company, Lawrence Taylor.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634764009733.jpeg" alt="Daisy National BB Gun Championships. Photo courtesy of Jerry Regier,&nbsp;provided by the Daisy Company, Lawrence Taylor." />
 <figcaption>Daisy National BB Gun Championships. Photo courtesy of Jerry Regier,&nbsp;provided by the Daisy Company, Lawrence Taylor.</figcaption>
 </figure>Old brine wells erupt in South Hutchinson.&nbsp;Haven postal carrier Homer Astle retires after carrying mail on the same route for 46 years.A danger that still exists today, a large prairie fire consumes the northern part of Reno County.1968: A runaway train leaves Hutchinson heading west. The train travels 78 miles before it is derailed in the small town of Kinsley.Wheat continues to be the crop in Reno County with a record 11.4 million bushels harvested.Reno County servicemen write home about the horrors of the Vietnam War as local casualties increase.&nbsp;USD 312 patrons approve a $1 million bond issue to build a new high school.A popular event still held each year in Nickerson, the first Klear Nearly Days event is held in 1968.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073278060.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Fair Housing Ordinance was passed by the city of Hutchinson, outlawing discrimination in housing.The Hutchinson Community College debate team wins the national title.&nbsp;Thousands of trees die from Dutch elm disease.The reformatory supervisor resigns after months of controversy over financial irregularities and an investigation by the governor's panel.1969: What might have been for Hutchinson, no one will ever know for sure, but the new interstate system route does not go through Hutchinson, instead taking a route to the east through Newton.The Board of Trade diminishes use of the Wiley Building, eventually closing. When the Wiley Building was renovated, 2013 papers, maps and most everything that was a part of the board was still there.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634072661589.jpeg" alt="Wiley Bldg. - N.E. Cor. 1st &amp; Main." />
 <figcaption>Wiley Bldg. - N.E. Cor. 1st &amp; Main.</figcaption>
 </figure>New telephones allow Hutchinson residents to make their own long-distance phone calls.Vietnam protesters march down Main Street and hold a rally in Sylvan Park.In what was finally an end to consolidation in the county, the number of school districts is reduced to six. There were 88 in 1948.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166047032.jpeg" alt="Wesley Towers Construction - 1969. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon." />
 <figcaption>Wesley Towers Construction - 1969. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.</figcaption>
 </figure>Addition: We are asking for your memories of events that happened up to the current date. Here are some of the things one reader shared with us about the 1950s and 1960s — Kathy says some of her memories include:Sitting on Random Road watching movies playing at the drive-in.Dragging Main with the turnaround at Sandy’s Drive-In.Going to the rodeo at the Sports Arena.Going roller skating at the Rollerena.Taking swimming lessons at Carey Park.Having the Morgan Grade School teacher walk the entire class to Dairy Queen on the last day of school.And finally, shopping at Pegues and Wileys — the only places you could buy dresses in town.Thanks for sharing!The Decades are brought to you by: <a href="http://www.hutchinsonfc.com/">Hutchinson Funeral Chapel</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rothefloors/">Rothe Family Flooring</a> <a href="https://www.hutchpl.org/">Hutchinson Public Library</a>Check back next Sunday for the next part in this series.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/239f71e3-58f9-4107-b657-04ace0aba6e5">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1870s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/4523eb41-6726-4b1d-8ef5-54dedbe74d38">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1880s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/aed5c227-5456-4c86-b4e0-2da58b625d79">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1890s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/cbb05344-de8a-41cb-bc81-4f2b031d0e3e">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1900s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/3a46367b-74cf-45f8-908a-80df2eba6230">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1910s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8b97ee4d-1ff3-4093-b15d-fc874c77ddff">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1920s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/d7ef87fc-b259-4f19-b2b4-1bbc1753e021">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1930s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/52bb60af-ca6a-4d7a-b83f-07d4ed8d7dbf">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1940s</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/efeb2935-17a6-4d6b-bdb6-59ccf927155a">CLICK HERE FOR THE 1950s</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

The Decades: 1960s


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The stewardship dinner for Central Christian School is coming up next month.

"The stewardship dinner is Saturday, November 20," said Superintendent Dr. John Walker. "Doors open at 5:30 p.m. A huge shout out to Lori Willems who has really taken on the role of organizing this event and a huge shout out to Amber Osner, our Director of Admissions and Marketing in her work to prepare our marketing materials for this. We are excited to have J. J. Jasper, who is the morning air host for AFR. He's going to come and be our speaker."

"Ultimately, it's to honor and worship Christ, to have fellowship with other people and our financial goal is to raise $100,000 that one night, which seems like a high goal," Walker said. "I think it's possible, I think we can do it. We're having a complimentary dinner time. We're going to have our kids 1st grade through 12th grade doing a collective choir time. It's just going to be a great time of fellowship and worship and honoring Christ."

Seating is limited, and an RSVP is required in advance. If you are interested in attending and supporting CCS, please RSVP by calling 620-663-2174 or email <a href="mailto:info@cougarsccs.com">info@cougarsccs.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634952470159.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The stewardship dinner for Central Christian School is coming up next month."The stewardship dinner is Saturday, November 20," said Superintendent Dr. John Walker. "Doors open at 5:30 p.m. A huge shout out to Lori Willems who has really taken on the role of organizing this event and a huge shout out to Amber Osner, our Director of Admissions and Marketing in her work to prepare our marketing materials for this. We are excited to have J. J. Jasper, who is the morning air host for AFR. He's going to come and be our speaker."There are many goals for that night."Ultimately, it's to honor and worship Christ, to have fellowship with other people and our financial goal is to raise $100,000 that one night, which seems like a high goal," Walker said. "I think it's possible, I think we can do it. We're having a complimentary dinner time. We're going to have our kids 1st grade through 12th grade doing a collective choir time. It's just going to be a great time of fellowship and worship and honoring Christ."Seating is limited, and an RSVP is required in advance. If you are interested in attending and supporting CCS, please RSVP by calling 620-663-2174 or email <a href="mailto:info@cougarsccs.com">info@cougarsccs.com</a>.

CCS Stewardship Dinner coming November 20


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss expects action from the Federal Reserve soon.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss expects action from the Federal Reserve soon."I think it's going to be probably November," Goss said. "Certainly, before the end of the first quarter of 2022 we are going to see the Federal Reserve pull back. That's pull back some of their stimulus. That doesn't mean they are stopping their stimulus, they are just going to put less money out there into long-term bonds."Some long-term rates are already higher in anticipation of future action."The ten-year Treasury yield on U.S. Treasury bonds, that's almost to 1.7%," Goss said. "Historically, that's way below the historical average. Still, in these times, that's a bit higher than what we've seen in the past."That will have an upward impact on consumer interest rates throughout 2022 and with continued supply chain issues, overall prices look to continue to rise. Also, people are not yet getting back in the workforce in large numbers."Despite the fact that we continue to grow, we're not growing jobs," Goss said. "We're not getting back those jobs we lost to the pandemic. It's an odd situation. The President's been speaking about it, but I'd have to say, some of what he's said is not exactly what I would agree with."President Biden sees passing his human infrastructure plan as a key to long-term economic growth, but negotiations on the overall size of that bill are still ongoing.