HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Five Hutchinson Community College nursing students were each granted $1,500 scholarships from the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Auxiliary. This year’s scholarship recipients are Perla Chavez Carrillo, Karen Ibarra, Daniel Simental and Laci Sutton, all from Hutchinson, and Joel Hernandez from McPherson. Hernandez, Ibarra, Simental, and Sutton are pursuing degrees to become nurses (ADN) and Carrillo is enrolled in the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program.

The LPN curriculum is a nine-month program and those completing the course receive a certificate of completion upon graduation. The ADN program is a two-year program and the students completing the course will receive an Associate of Applied Science-Nursing upon completion.

The Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship was established in 2018 and, to date, 20 area students have benefited from the program. Eligible students must be full-time at Hutchinson Community College and pursuing degrees in nursing with a minimum GPA of 2.5 (on 4.0 system). Preference is given to Reno County applicants and financial need is considered as part of the selection process. Scholarships may be renewed for a second year, provided criteria is met during the first year of coursework.

Cindy Broxterman, president of the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Auxiliary, said the scholarship program is one of the organization’s most important beneficiaries. “Our hope is that the scholarship recipients will remain in the city to work at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center after completing their coursework,” Broxterman said. “The auxiliary is honored to give five deserving nursing students a boost each year to take the next step for a career in healthcare.”

Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said the healthcare system could not function as well as it does without the assistance of the auxiliary. “Part of our mission is to prepare for the future and assist young people who are interested in careers in healthcare,” Johnson said. “The auxiliary’s scholarship program is having a major impact in accomplishing that objective.”

In a letter to the auxiliary, Cindy Keast with the Hutchinson College Endowment Association said, “The scholarship program truly impacts a student’s ability to transform their lives and become successful.”

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633981135110.jpeg" alt="PICTURED (L to R): Daniel Simental, Joel Hernandez, Karen Ibarra and Laci Sutton." />
 <figcaption>PICTURED (L to R): Daniel Simental, Joel Hernandez, Karen Ibarra and Laci Sutton.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Five Hutchinson Community College nursing students were each granted $1,500 scholarships from the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Auxiliary. This year’s scholarship recipients are Perla Chavez Carrillo, Karen Ibarra, Daniel Simental and Laci Sutton, all from Hutchinson, and Joel Hernandez from McPherson. Hernandez, Ibarra, Simental, and Sutton are pursuing degrees to become nurses (ADN) and Carrillo is enrolled in the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program.The LPN curriculum is a nine-month program and those completing the course receive a certificate of completion upon graduation. The ADN program is a two-year program and the students completing the course will receive an Associate of Applied Science-Nursing upon completion.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633981158157.jpeg" alt="Perla Chavez Carrillo" />
 <figcaption>Perla Chavez Carrillo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship was established in 2018 and, to date, 20 area students have benefited from the program. Eligible students must be full-time at Hutchinson Community College and pursuing degrees in nursing with a minimum GPA of 2.5 (on 4.0 system). Preference is given to Reno County applicants and financial need is considered as part of the selection process. Scholarships may be renewed for a second year, provided criteria is met during the first year of coursework.Cindy Broxterman, president of the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Auxiliary, said the scholarship program is one of the organization’s most important beneficiaries. “Our hope is that the scholarship recipients will remain in the city to work at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center after completing their coursework,” Broxterman said. “The auxiliary is honored to give five deserving nursing students a boost each year to take the next step for a career in healthcare.”Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said the healthcare system could not function as well as it does without the assistance of the auxiliary. “Part of our mission is to prepare for the future and assist young people who are interested in careers in healthcare,” Johnson said. “The auxiliary’s scholarship program is having a major impact in accomplishing that objective.”In a letter to the auxiliary, Cindy Keast with the Hutchinson College Endowment Association said, “The scholarship program truly impacts a student’s ability to transform their lives and become successful.”<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;

HutchCC nursing students benefit from scholarship

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The effort to get federal matching funds to help with the problems on the Woodie Seat Freeway likely won't have a resolution until next month.

Hutchinson City Engineer Jeff Peterson told Hutch Post Monday that by statute, the federal grant program that the city has applied for to construct roundabouts in place of bridges at the end of the Woodie Seat Freeway and to get rid of the bridge at Avenue B and close the road will have its award by November 22, but that they typically tell the awardees about a week ahead of that deadline.

Brock Wells, city council candidate for the SW district in the November 2 election, spoke against the closure of B Street when the city chose to apply for the grant back in April. 

Retiring City Councilman Jon Daveline made clear at the time of application that the reason for going with roundabouts instead of bridges was in an effort to save local taxpayers money, because if the city had to go it alone, the bridge replacements would likely cost at least $7 million, but the city's portion of the federal matching funds on the proposed roundabout project would be about $160,000 a year for 20 years, or about $3.2 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585858972025.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The effort to get federal matching funds to help with the problems on the Woodie Seat Freeway likely won't have a resolution until next month.Hutchinson City Engineer Jeff Peterson told Hutch Post Monday that by statute, the federal grant program that the city has applied for to construct roundabouts in place of bridges at the end of the Woodie Seat Freeway and to get rid of the bridge at Avenue B and close the road will have its award by November 22, but that they typically tell the awardees about a week ahead of that deadline.Brock Wells, city council candidate for the SW district in the November 2 election, spoke against the closure of B Street when the city chose to apply for the grant back in April. Retiring City Councilman Jon Daveline made clear at the time of application that the reason for going with roundabouts instead of bridges was in an effort to save local taxpayers money, because if the city had to go it alone, the bridge replacements would likely cost at least $7 million, but the city's portion of the federal matching funds on the proposed roundabout project would be about $160,000 a year for 20 years, or about $3.2 million.

Woodie Seat grant decision next month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 School Board will go over a grant application that would provide funds for the district to implement a test-to-stay program in the district when they meet this evening.&nbsp;

Several smaller districts in the area already have such a program in place, but it has proven to be costly and difficult to do in larger schools.

The program allows students who have been exposed to COVID-19 to stay in school if they get tested each day. Such a program can help students stay in school even if they may have come in contact with someone who is COVID-positive.

Also this evening, the board will go into executive session to discuss the latest negotiations with the district's teachers and approve a memorandum of understanding with both Salthawk Community Services and Rise Up Reno.

This evening's meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the HMS-8 library.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 School Board will go over a grant application that would provide funds for the district to implement a test-to-stay program in the district when they meet this evening.&nbsp;Several smaller districts in the area already have such a program in place, but it has proven to be costly and difficult to do in larger schools.The program allows students who have been exposed to COVID-19 to stay in school if they get tested each day. Such a program can help students stay in school even if they may have come in contact with someone who is COVID-positive.Also this evening, the board will go into executive session to discuss the latest negotiations with the district's teachers and approve a memorandum of understanding with both Salthawk Community Services and Rise Up Reno.This evening's meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the HMS-8 library.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

USD 308 board to go over test-to-stay grant

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Buhler Police Department, Haven Police Department, South Hutchinson Police Department, and Nickerson USD 309 Police Department announced Monday the 3rd Annual Shop with a Sheriff.

This year’s event will take place on December 11th. 

If you would like to sponsor a child this Christmas, you can contact the Reno County Sheriff's FOP Lodge #18 through Facebook. The department will not call for solicitation to avoid scammers.

Sponsoring a child is $110 and will go towards a $150 shopping allowance at Walmart for each child (includes $50 per child donated from Walmart). Each sponsor will also get their name on the Shop with a Sheriff 2021 t-shirt that each child will receive.

Sponsors will need to have their money in by November 15th to give time to get the shirt order in with sponsor names.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633967675330.jpeg" alt="Shop with a Sheriff-Courtesy Reno County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Shop with a Sheriff-Courtesy Reno County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Buhler Police Department, Haven Police Department, South Hutchinson Police Department, and Nickerson USD 309 Police Department announced Monday the 3rd Annual Shop with a Sheriff.This year’s event will take place on December 11th. If you would like to sponsor a child this Christmas, you can contact the Reno County Sheriff's FOP Lodge #18 through Facebook. The department will not call for solicitation to avoid scammers.Sponsoring a child is $110 and will go towards a $150 shopping allowance at Walmart for each child (includes $50 per child donated from Walmart). Each sponsor will also get their name on the Shop with a Sheriff 2021 t-shirt that each child will receive.Sponsors will need to have their money in by November 15th to give time to get the shirt order in with sponsor names.

FOP Lodge looking for Christmastime sponsors for kids

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board meets this evening with a fairly light agenda.

The board will go over several purchases for the maintenance department including two new mowers at a cost of $22,522 and a skid loader at a cost of $69,333.

The board will also go over several resignations and hires as part of a personnel agenda items and hear the various reports from the superintendent and school staff.

Tonight's meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the school district offices at 4501 W. 4th Avenue just west of Fun Valley.

<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/2021/6/1623727313031.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board meets this evening with a fairly light agenda.The board will go over several purchases for the maintenance department including two new mowers at a cost of $22,522 and a skid loader at a cost of $69,333.The board will also go over several resignations and hires as part of a personnel agenda items and hear the various reports from the superintendent and school staff.Tonight's meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the school district offices at 4501 W. 4th Avenue just west of Fun Valley.<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;

USD 309 to meet Monday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Red Cross will host several blood drives in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

In Reno County, blood drives will be held Oct. 12 from 12:15 until 6:00 p.m. at the Center Amish Mennonite Church; Oct. 20 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. At the Pretty Prairie Middle School in Pretty Prairie; Oct. 22 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center; Oct. 23 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church and finally, Oct. 30 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.&nbsp;

Fall is typically a time when the blood supply rebounds from summer blood shortages, but a surge in COVID-19 cases across the U.S. due to the delta variant has contributed to the lowest donor turnout of the year. To shore up inventory, the Red Cross must collect 10,000 additional blood products each week this month to meet hospital and patient needs.

To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594833320537.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Red Cross will host several blood drives in the coming weeks.&nbsp;In Reno County, blood drives will be held Oct. 12 from 12:15 until 6:00 p.m. at the Center Amish Mennonite Church; Oct. 20 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. At the Pretty Prairie Middle School in Pretty Prairie; Oct. 22 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center; Oct. 23 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church and finally, Oct. 30 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.&nbsp;Fall is typically a time when the blood supply rebounds from summer blood shortages, but a surge in COVID-19 cases across the U.S. due to the delta variant has contributed to the lowest donor turnout of the year. To shore up inventory, the Red Cross must collect 10,000 additional blood products each week this month to meet hospital and patient needs.To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.<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;

Red Cross blood drives scheduled 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Vieyra Honors Foundation (VHF), in collaboration with Downtown Hutch and United Way for Reno County, are launching a new Veterans Honor Banner Project that will debut in Downtown Hutch this coming spring.&nbsp;

“The project is offering the community the opportunity to honor a family member or friend with an honor banner,” VHF Board President Marla Booher said. “This would be for someone who has served in the military or is serving.”&nbsp;

Each banner will be individualized to honor a specific veteran with his or her name, branch of service, conflict they served in, and a photograph. The banners are $200 and will be on sale soon.

“The banners will be sold from Nov. 5th through the holidays and into the springtime,“ Booher said. “The first group of banners will be put up Memorial Day through the 4th of July.”

The honor banners are becoming a popular display all around Kansas since it got its start in Emporia.

“The first city in Kansas to do it was Emporia and they’ve been helping cities in Kansas roll it out,” Booher said. “It has been a pay it forward program throughout the state and so we’d like to see it get completely rolled out to the entire state.”

The event is also being sponsored by the United Way who is working to help establish assistance for veterans in need around the area. The inaugural event for the foundation will be the Vieyra Honors Foundation Veterans Fun Run on Saturday, November 6 from 10 a.m. to noon at Rivers Banks Orchard Park in Hutchinson, KS.&nbsp;

The Vieyra Honors Foundation was formed to support veteran programs in the community and provide resources through fundraising and awareness initiatives. For more information on the Honor Banner Project or to register for the Vierya Honors Foundation Veterans Fun Run visit <a href="http://vieyrahonorsfoundation.org">vieyrahonorsfoundation.org.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633963663196.jpeg" alt="VHF.jpg" />
 <figcaption>VHF.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>BY ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Vieyra Honors Foundation (VHF), in collaboration with Downtown Hutch and United Way for Reno County, are launching a new Veterans Honor Banner Project that will debut in Downtown Hutch this coming spring.&nbsp;“The project is offering the community the opportunity to honor a family member or friend with an honor banner,” VHF Board President Marla Booher said. “This would be for someone who has served in the military or is serving.”&nbsp;Each banner will be individualized to honor a specific veteran with his or her name, branch of service, conflict they served in, and a photograph. The banners are $200 and will be on sale soon.“The banners will be sold from Nov. 5th through the holidays and into the springtime,“ Booher said. “The first group of banners will be put up Memorial Day through the 4th of July.”The honor banners are becoming a popular display all around Kansas since it got its start in Emporia.“The first city in Kansas to do it was Emporia and they’ve been helping cities in Kansas roll it out,” Booher said. “It has been a pay it forward program throughout the state and so we’d like to see it get completely rolled out to the entire state.”The event is also being sponsored by the United Way who is working to help establish assistance for veterans in need around the area. The inaugural event for the foundation will be the Vieyra Honors Foundation Veterans Fun Run on Saturday, November 6 from 10 a.m. to noon at Rivers Banks Orchard Park in Hutchinson, KS.&nbsp;The Vieyra Honors Foundation was formed to support veteran programs in the community and provide resources through fundraising and awareness initiatives. For more information on the Honor Banner Project or to register for the Vierya Honors Foundation Veterans Fun Run visit <a href="http://vieyrahonorsfoundation.org">vieyrahonorsfoundation.org.</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Honor Banners project to kick off in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers explained Monday the reasoning behind the commission sending proposed wind farm regulations back to an earlier point in the process.

"In August, it was apparent with only three votes on the commission, that wind would not pass in zoned areas of the county," Sellers said. "The commission was willing to not allow wind in the zoned area and allow in the unzoned area with regulations, per the planning commission's input. However, our legal counsel advised that we could not do this appropriately without going back to the planning commission. That's what we've asked the planning commission to do, is to hold limited public hearings yet this year and get back to us for a commission decision, hopefully yet this year."

Sellers noted what the commission means by the unzoned areas of the county.

"Most of the zoning in Reno County is either to the southeast or the northeast of Hutchinson," Sellers said. "Most all of the area to the west of Hutchinson is currently unzoned. If you look at a Reno County map, that's the majority of the Reno County area."

The proposal would put a zoning overlay solely for wind development in those unzoned areas.

"I'm pushing very hard to get this on the agenda in December, so that we can make some final decision on what wind is appropriate in Reno County," Sellers said. "In my opinion, the wind debate has gone on long enough and it's time to have Reno regulations. I think this is the opinion of all three Reno County commissioners."

A moratorium on wind development is in place until the public hearings at the planning level can be held.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621676876229.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers explained Monday the reasoning behind the commission sending proposed wind farm regulations back to an earlier point in the process."In August, it was apparent with only three votes on the commission, that wind would not pass in zoned areas of the county," Sellers said. "The commission was willing to not allow wind in the zoned area and allow in the unzoned area with regulations, per the planning commission's input. However, our legal counsel advised that we could not do this appropriately without going back to the planning commission. That's what we've asked the planning commission to do, is to hold limited public hearings yet this year and get back to us for a commission decision, hopefully yet this year."Sellers noted what the commission means by the unzoned areas of the county."Most of the zoning in Reno County is either to the southeast or the northeast of Hutchinson," Sellers said. "Most all of the area to the west of Hutchinson is currently unzoned. If you look at a Reno County map, that's the majority of the Reno County area."The proposal would put a zoning overlay solely for wind development in those unzoned areas."I'm pushing very hard to get this on the agenda in December, so that we can make some final decision on what wind is appropriate in Reno County," Sellers said. "In my opinion, the wind debate has gone on long enough and it's time to have Reno regulations. I think this is the opinion of all three Reno County commissioners."A moratorium on wind development is in place until the public hearings at the planning level can be held.

County commissioner pushing for wind regs by end of year

My grandparents received exactly one paycheck per year, usually in mid-August when they took calves to market. I was probably 5 or 6 years old the first time I got to go to the sale and sit in the grandstand as the cattle were auctioned off in lots.

I don’t remember much from the sale, other than the auctioneer’s cadence was pleasing even if it didn’t make much sense to me. It was the conversation with my grandparents as we were leaving the parking lot that’s stayed with me. It was a good year, and my grandmother said she’d picked up a nice check at the cashier’s office.

Upon hearing the word check, the most obvious question spilled forth from my mouth. “How much was it?” I asked. My grandfather stared at the road while my grandmother flatly stated, “We don’t talk about money.” End of conversation.

I accompanied my grandparents to lots of sales over the next several years, and the routine was always the same. We’d go to the auction, stop at a restaurant on the way home and, in the good years, I’d come home with a new pair of boots. True to my grandmother’s word, we never talked about money.

Years of careful observation eventually allowed me to decipher the general workings of the business side, even if I lacked access to the actual accounting of dollars and cents. By the time I was a teenager, I generally understood the success of the ranch depended on a delicate balance of controlling expenses in down years and setting something aside in the good ones.

This all has been running through my mind lately after seeing a consumer post on social media believing ranchers have it easy because their only outlays are minimal, just some mineral and vaccines. He believed grass was free.

A couple of questions popped into my mind when I saw that. One, where can one find this free grass? Two, how much does the average consumer know about the business side of agriculture? I know the answer to the first, and I suspect the answer to the second question would scare me.

One of the biggest misconceptions about the business of agriculture is that corporations are taking over and displacing family farms. There’s no doubt there are some large corporate farms, but the rise in corporations is driven primarily by family farms and ranches. These are still mom and pop operations choosing to incorporate for any number of reasons, from liability protection and enhanced management to transition and tax planning.

It’s a recognition of what’s always been true — agriculture is a business and those who grow our food are its leaders. We tend to gloss over those facts by calling farming and ranching a lifestyle. While it’s undoubtedly true, it also obscures some of the most difficult work those in agriculture do.

To grow a crop or raise livestock requires an extensive set of skills, ranging from finance and marketing to logistics and recordkeeping. Even with managing what they can control, farmers and ranchers are still at the mercy of markets and Mother Nature. Those are tough partners, thankfully our food in in the hands of business professionals.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering-Kansas Farm BureauMy grandparents received exactly one paycheck per year, usually in mid-August when they took calves to market. I was probably 5 or 6 years old the first time I got to go to the sale and sit in the grandstand as the cattle were auctioned off in lots.I don’t remember much from the sale, other than the auctioneer’s cadence was pleasing even if it didn’t make much sense to me. It was the conversation with my grandparents as we were leaving the parking lot that’s stayed with me. It was a good year, and my grandmother said she’d picked up a nice check at the cashier’s office.Upon hearing the word check, the most obvious question spilled forth from my mouth. “How much was it?” I asked. My grandfather stared at the road while my grandmother flatly stated, “We don’t talk about money.” End of conversation.I accompanied my grandparents to lots of sales over the next several years, and the routine was always the same. We’d go to the auction, stop at a restaurant on the way home and, in the good years, I’d come home with a new pair of boots. True to my grandmother’s word, we never talked about money.Years of careful observation eventually allowed me to decipher the general workings of the business side, even if I lacked access to the actual accounting of dollars and cents. By the time I was a teenager, I generally understood the success of the ranch depended on a delicate balance of controlling expenses in down years and setting something aside in the good ones.This all has been running through my mind lately after seeing a consumer post on social media believing ranchers have it easy because their only outlays are minimal, just some mineral and vaccines. He believed grass was free.A couple of questions popped into my mind when I saw that. One, where can one find this free grass? Two, how much does the average consumer know about the business side of agriculture? I know the answer to the first, and I suspect the answer to the second question would scare me.One of the biggest misconceptions about the business of agriculture is that corporations are taking over and displacing family farms. There’s no doubt there are some large corporate farms, but the rise in corporations is driven primarily by family farms and ranches. These are still mom and pop operations choosing to incorporate for any number of reasons, from liability protection and enhanced management to transition and tax planning.It’s a recognition of what’s always been true — agriculture is a business and those who grow our food are its leaders. We tend to gloss over those facts by calling farming and ranching a lifestyle. While it’s undoubtedly true, it also obscures some of the most difficult work those in agriculture do.To grow a crop or raise livestock requires an extensive set of skills, ranging from finance and marketing to logistics and recordkeeping. Even with managing what they can control, farmers and ranchers are still at the mercy of markets and Mother Nature. Those are tough partners, thankfully our food in in the hands of business professionals."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: The Business of Farming


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College art departments are teaming up to support the Reno County Food Bank through the Empty Bowls fundraiser on October 14, 2021 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Hutchinson Art Center (405 N. Washington Street).

Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College are “raising hunger awareness through art,” at the Empty Bowls fundraiser supporting the Reno County Food Bank. The event has been a collaboration between the two art departments, along with support from numerous community sponsors.

Hutchinson High School students Haily Biggs and Stelly Foster have been working with art teacher, Julia Johnson, to get the event off the ground. Biggs is a graphics student and created the flyer advertising the fundraiser, while Foster has focused on organizing fundraising and volunteer recruitment.

“I am very proud to be a part of the Empty Bowls fundraiser, and I am glad to have had a large role in the display of the project,” said Biggs about helping to advertise the event.

There is a $10 suggested donation to enter the event, which will provide guests with a handmade ceramic bowl created by HHS and HCC students, as well as food provided by Traveling Bowl and Val’s Berry Bowls. All proceeds will go directly to the Reno County Food Bank.

WHO: Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College

WHEN: 5:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 14, 2021

WHERE: Hutchinson Art Center, 405 N. Washington Street

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College art departments are teaming up to support the Reno County Food Bank through the Empty Bowls fundraiser on October 14, 2021 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Hutchinson Art Center (405 N. Washington Street).Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College are “raising hunger awareness through art,” at the Empty Bowls fundraiser supporting the Reno County Food Bank. The event has been a collaboration between the two art departments, along with support from numerous community sponsors.Hutchinson High School students Haily Biggs and Stelly Foster have been working with art teacher, Julia Johnson, to get the event off the ground. Biggs is a graphics student and created the flyer advertising the fundraiser, while Foster has focused on organizing fundraising and volunteer recruitment.“I am very proud to be a part of the Empty Bowls fundraiser, and I am glad to have had a large role in the display of the project,” said Biggs about helping to advertise the event.There is a $10 suggested donation to enter the event, which will provide guests with a handmade ceramic bowl created by HHS and HCC students, as well as food provided by Traveling Bowl and Val’s Berry Bowls. All proceeds will go directly to the Reno County Food Bank.WHO: Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community CollegeWHAT: Empty Bowls FundraiserWHEN: 5:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 14, 2021WHERE: Hutchinson Art Center, 405 N. Washington Street

Reminder: Empty Bowls Fundraiser coming up October 14


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers wants an expanded commission not to cost taxpayers any more in salary.

"Back before we went to a county administrator government, commissioners were paid $36,000 a year," Sellers said. "It was about a half-time job. They were in the courthouse every morning. They had two public meetings a week. They ran the departments."

The commission doesn't do those things any more.

"Now that we've gone to a manager, a professional manager form of government, there's much less duties of the commission. It's my suggestion tomorrow that in the event the electors of Reno County approve the change in the number of commission districts from three to five, the annual salary for each member of the Board of County Commissioners, effective for the pay period starting January 8, 2023, shall be $10,800. We're currently paying $18,000."

That would make the move from three to five commissioners, in terms of salary, revenue neutral.&nbsp; There would likely be some incidental costs related to additional desks and IT infrastructure for additional members.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624541123020.jpeg" alt="Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers wants an expanded commission not to cost taxpayers any more in salary."Back before we went to a county administrator government, commissioners were paid $36,000 a year," Sellers said. "It was about a half-time job. They were in the courthouse every morning. They had two public meetings a week. They ran the departments."The commission doesn't do those things any more."Now that we've gone to a manager, a professional manager form of government, there's much less duties of the commission. It's my suggestion tomorrow that in the event the electors of Reno County approve the change in the number of commission districts from three to five, the annual salary for each member of the Board of County Commissioners, effective for the pay period starting January 8, 2023, shall be $10,800. We're currently paying $18,000."That would make the move from three to five commissioners, in terms of salary, revenue neutral.&nbsp; There would likely be some incidental costs related to additional desks and IT infrastructure for additional members.

Sellers county commission pay reduction proposal on tap Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
October is Energy Awareness Month. Julia Westfahl with SCKEDD explains their weatherization program.

"For those approved applicants, we weatherize their homes by doing air sealing insulation," Westfahl said. "We also address furnace replacements, if it's either for efficiency or for health and safety. We also do look at their AC units. They're not always approved, but we do look at that, as well and then we address any health and safety issues like venting of hot water tanks."

They'll also help with CO detector and smoke detector installation, if needed.

"They can go to our website to download the application, or they can call in and request an application and we will mail it to them, (620) 259-6544," Westfahl said. "Once they fill out their application and submit it back in, we process it and get them moved to our waitlist to get them assessed. We send an inspector out to do an assessment to see if the house is viable for weatherization and during that audit time, they take all the information and run it through an audit program that tells us what we are able to do to a home."

The office is closed Monday for Columbus Day, but next week, starting October 18th, they'll be offering weatherization kits, thanks to Kansas Gas Service.

"They're going to be bringing us 100 weatherization kits that will be free to the public," Westfahl said. "They don't have to qualify for a program. They're going to have things like a door sweep, a weatherstrip kit, as well as plastic for the windows. Come in to our office here in Hutchinson and then pick up one of those kits for free. At that time, we would obviously talk to them about the weatherization program, as well."

If you'd prefer to email with questions, you can do so at <a href="mailto:info@sckedd.org">info@sckedd.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633953129253.jpeg" alt="Weatherization-Courtesy SCKEDD" />
 <figcaption>Weatherization-Courtesy SCKEDD</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
October is Energy Awareness Month. Julia Westfahl with SCKEDD explains their weatherization program."For those approved applicants, we weatherize their homes by doing air sealing insulation," Westfahl said. "We also address furnace replacements, if it's either for efficiency or for health and safety. We also do look at their AC units. They're not always approved, but we do look at that, as well and then we address any health and safety issues like venting of hot water tanks."They'll also help with CO detector and smoke detector installation, if needed."They can go to our website to download the application, or they can call in and request an application and we will mail it to them, (620) 259-6544," Westfahl said. "Once they fill out their application and submit it back in, we process it and get them moved to our waitlist to get them assessed. We send an inspector out to do an assessment to see if the house is viable for weatherization and during that audit time, they take all the information and run it through an audit program that tells us what we are able to do to a home."The office is closed Monday for Columbus Day, but next week, starting October 18th, they'll be offering weatherization kits, thanks to Kansas Gas Service."They're going to be bringing us 100 weatherization kits that will be free to the public," Westfahl said. "They don't have to qualify for a program. They're going to have things like a door sweep, a weatherstrip kit, as well as plastic for the windows. Come in to our office here in Hutchinson and then pick up one of those kits for free. At that time, we would obviously talk to them about the weatherization program, as well."If you'd prefer to email with questions, you can do so at <a href="mailto:info@sckedd.org">info@sckedd.org</a>.

SCKEDD has funds for weatherization, kits coming next week


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County's local group attempting to keep those with addiction issues alive is now officially a non-profit organization, calling itself Kansas Recovery Network Inc.

"When harm reduction coalitions are recognized by the federal government in the way of getting a 501(c)(3), they're eligible for grant funding," said treasurer Jacci Espinosa. "Access to naloxone changes, they're able to get naloxone in different ways. People can get tax write offs for donating to us."

The group is the first official non-profit in Kansas for harm reduction.

"We started looking into it at the beginning of the year," Espinosa said. "It's always been a goal for us to get to this point, but we really didn't start looking into doing it for sure until probably about the beginning of the year."

Espinosa has been heavily involved in the naloxone distribution events in previous months. The hope is that the new status will help them stay supplied more easily.

"So far, we've been really good at being able to stay supplied," Espinosa said. "Right now, there's a national shortage, so we will run out sometime before next spring, but right now, we're okay. Previously, we've just been relying on donations, but now, it will open up our ability to purchase directly from the manufacturers."

Also, the intent is to broaden the scope of the group to help others who are committed to harm reduction in the state be active and continue to save lives.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633743551142.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County's local group attempting to keep those with addiction issues alive is now officially a non-profit organization, calling itself Kansas Recovery Network Inc."When harm reduction coalitions are recognized by the federal government in the way of getting a 501(c)(3), they're eligible for grant funding," said treasurer Jacci Espinosa. "Access to naloxone changes, they're able to get naloxone in different ways. People can get tax write offs for donating to us."The group is the first official non-profit in Kansas for harm reduction."We started looking into it at the beginning of the year," Espinosa said. "It's always been a goal for us to get to this point, but we really didn't start looking into doing it for sure until probably about the beginning of the year."Espinosa has been heavily involved in the naloxone distribution events in previous months. The hope is that the new status will help them stay supplied more easily."So far, we've been really good at being able to stay supplied," Espinosa said. "Right now, there's a national shortage, so we will run out sometime before next spring, but right now, we're okay. Previously, we've just been relying on donations, but now, it will open up our ability to purchase directly from the manufacturers."Also, the intent is to broaden the scope of the group to help others who are committed to harm reduction in the state be active and continue to save lives.

Harm reduction group now federally recognized non-profit


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Deputy Clerk and election official Jenna Fager reminds us there is an election coming up the first Tuesday in November.

"We've got the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees," Fager said. "We've also got the City Council, your local school board will be on the ballot as well. There's a special question that's county-wide. It's for the Reno County Commission districts. It's to expand the board from three members to five members."

If you've moved or haven't yet registered to vote, you need to do so soon.

"The last day to register is coming up Tuesday, October 12," Fager said. "There's a few different ways to register. You can register, of course, in our office at the Reno County Annex in the clerk's office. You can also go to any of your city offices and register. You can go to the Hutchinson Public Library. If you don't feel comfortable going in to any of those locations, you can also <a href="https://www.ksvotes.org/">go online</a>."

You can register to vote at <a href="https://www.ksvotes.org/">ksvotes.org</a>. If you need a mail ballot, though, you'll need to ask for one via an advance ballot application.

"You can locate that on <a href="https://renogov.org/138/Elections">our website</a>," Fager said. "You can also go to <a href="https://sos.ks.gov/forms/elections/AV1.pdf">voteks.org</a>. That's a good way to request an advance ballot. You can actually request those up until October 26. As long as it's in our office by then, we'll mail you out your ballot."

This time around, the office will not be automatically mailing the forms. You have to send it in yourself.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627996244560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Deputy Clerk and election official Jenna Fager reminds us there is an election coming up the first Tuesday in November."We've got the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees," Fager said. "We've also got the City Council, your local school board will be on the ballot as well. There's a special question that's county-wide. It's for the Reno County Commission districts. It's to expand the board from three members to five members."If you've moved or haven't yet registered to vote, you need to do so soon."The last day to register is coming up Tuesday, October 12," Fager said. "There's a few different ways to register. You can register, of course, in our office at the Reno County Annex in the clerk's office. You can also go to any of your city offices and register. You can go to the Hutchinson Public Library. If you don't feel comfortable going in to any of those locations, you can also <a href="https://www.ksvotes.org/">go online</a>."You can register to vote at <a href="https://www.ksvotes.org/">ksvotes.org</a>. If you need a mail ballot, though, you'll need to ask for one via an advance ballot application."You can locate that on <a href="https://renogov.org/138/Elections">our website</a>," Fager said. "You can also go to <a href="https://sos.ks.gov/forms/elections/AV1.pdf">voteks.org</a>. That's a good way to request an advance ballot. You can actually request those up until October 26. As long as it's in our office by then, we'll mail you out your ballot."This time around, the office will not be automatically mailing the forms. You have to send it in yourself.

Fager: Deadline to register for November election is Oct 12

Tornado strikes in Oklahoma, election official says registration is due Tuesday, Wichita water pipes need work, plus more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Tornado strikes in Oklahoma, election official says registration is due Tuesday, Wichita water pipes need work, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="October 11, 2021 Morning News" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bz22c-10ffd84-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

October 11, 2021 Morning News

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;

World War II was upon us and, once again, Reno County does its part serving the country. A new way to enjoy motion pictures begins to crop up around the county and the home of the Blue Dragons and Salthawks is born.

1940: One of the great annual events still to this day in Reno County, the Pretty Prairie Rodeo becomes an annual professional event.

The home of the Blue Dragons and Salthawks becomes a reality as Gowans Stadium is built on the HutchCC Campus.

The National Guard is mobilized in Hutchinson as the war in Europe escalates.&nbsp;

The new post office is dedicated in the city.

Walter Schellenberger is elected president of the Hutchinson Red Cross. The agency would play a big part in WWII.

Leo Collingwood of Collingwood Grain is killed in an elevator accident.

More than 8,000 Reno County men registered for the draft, 36 applied for service.

The first Reno County men leave for service in WWII at Ft. Leavenworth. They are Charles Erker, Clare Conover and Nathaniel Lockett.

The local National Guard mobilizes at the Kansas state fairgrounds to go to war.

1941: The Civilian Defense council is established in Reno County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Seven boys are indicted at Hutchinson High School after they are caught selling counterfeit coins for coin-operated games.

Cow Creek floods once again as a levee gives way. Residents are told to boil water before drinking.&nbsp;

More than 125,000 attend the Prairie Pow Wow, which is a multi-day event that brings executives of large companies and dignitaries to the party.

More than 330 men board a train for Arkansas when the 35th Division is mobilized. Women and Wives of the 35th Division organization is&nbsp; established.

The 1941 Farm and Home event fills up the Convention Center with music and entertainment.

The city of Hutchinson celebrates its 70th birthday with a three-day event in April.

The first war salvage drive in the county is held by the Junior Chamber of Commerce to collect aluminum for the war effort.

The boys work committee of the YMCA recommends fees be dropped and boys be given free membership.

Another major flood hit the area in October.

Dec. 7, 1941 — Eight Reno County soldiers are killed in the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor:

Robert E. Clark: Member of anti-aircraft unit.

Camillus O’ Grady: Yeoman on an unidentified battleship.

Stephan Stucky: Water tender and brother of James.

Nine others survive the attack. They are:

Leo Applegate — Ship Fitter — USS Medusa — Survivor

H.A. Bisbee — Flight Engineer — Survivor

William Downing — Private First Class — Schofield Barracks — Survivor

Edgar Kentfield Jr. — Chief Petty Officer — Survivor

Walt McCandless — Chief Mechanics Mate Ammunitions Ship — Survivor

James Ragsdale — Chief Petty Officer — USS Worden — Survivor

Joaquin “John” Santos — Cook — USS Nevada — Survivor

Carl Zimmerman — Mechanics Mate — USS Honolulu — Survivor

Gregory Zimmerman — Sargent Schofield Barracks — Survivor

Edgar Kentfield Jr. was the last survivor of Pearl Harbor alive in Hutchinson when he died Aug. 11, 2015.

1942: Cessna begins to build a factory in Hutchinson. The facility is built in just 69 days and eventually is used to build gliders that would be used in the D-Day invasion.

A Hutchinson girl marries her sweetheart by telephone. He is stationed in California.

The governor proposes building a new training facility near Yoder. Pilots begin training in the area even before the naval air base is finished. The Hutchinson Airport is used for training, the state fairgrounds are used for housing and an office at the First National Bank is used for headquarters.

Reno County collects more than 2,600 pounds of scrap metal for the war effort.

Hutchinson and Reno County experience the first blackouts as part of the wartime air defense system.

Citizens are called on to volunteer as air raid wardens. More than 1,200 volunteer their service to the effort.

Melvan Zumwalt of Hutchison becomes the 1,000th naval recruit in the city.

Nov. 5 was the day the first naval recruits arrived at the new naval air base near Yoder.

1943: The co-ed volunteers organization of Hutchinson sells more than $429,000 worth of war bonds.

The Red Cross raises more than $53,000 for the war effort.

The Hutchinson community buys more than $2.8 million in war bonds in 1943.

On March 10, all of the city churches gather together at the Fox Theatre for a community church service to open the season of Lent.

The city commission grants a franchise agreement to McVey Brothers for a motor bus service system.

A special vote on a $2 million bond issue for a new municipal building is voted down by the public.

The navy patrol frigate USS Hutchinson is dedicated. The vessel did see combat during WWII.

Nickerson native Howard Randall downs 12 enemy planes as a tail gunner on a B-17 during WWII.

Two crewmen are killed when a naval training plane crashes near Rayl's Hill.

Five children die from infantile paralysis. Sixty more are hospitalized and facilities are closed to children under age 16. The start of school is delayed.

With the naval air base, school enrollment in the area jumps by 1,000 students in a single year.

Wendell Godwin replaces longtime superintendent of schools J.W. Gowans.

Sherman Jr. High School students are recognized for buying more than $20,000 worth of war bonds.

1944: More than $5 million in war bonds are sold.

More than 85 tons of scrap paper are collected in Reno County as part of the war effort.

The Nickerson water supply is declared unsafe. Citizens are told to boil water.

Women’s groups serve sandwiches and cookies to service men passing through on trains.

A severe housing shortage occurs in Hutchinson and surrounding cities as the naval air base expands.

The Hutchinson Red Cross makes kit bags for more than 6,000 service men. They also make more than 690,000 wound dressings for the armed forces.

PFC Earl Morris is taken prisoner during the Battle of the Bulge. It’s the last major offensive of the German army. The war is nearing its end.

1945: German POWs are housed at the fairgrounds.

World War II ends. In Reno County, 8,000 men and women serve, 325 die and another 223 are decorated for their service.

Gus Leonida personally sold more than $10 million worth of war bonds.

The Hutchinson mayor takes over the police department when the chief is relieved of duty.

The city commission begins plans for a flood control project for $3.3 million. The project is led by the army corps of engineers and the city’s share of the project is $1.2 million. The project includes more than 27 miles of levees and a 200-foot-wide drainage canal.

Annual chamber membership grows by 105 members.

In four years, Hutchinson residents purchased more than $23 million in war bonds.

Charles Carey is named president of Central Fibre Products.

Laiten Weed of Langdon is part of the band aboard the USS Yorktown in Tokyo Bay when Japan signs the surrender, ending the war in the Pacific.

The 130th artillery unit returns to Hutchinson from WWII. Only 31 of the 300 mobilized in Hutchinson are left.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson Red Cross sends out 11,000 Christmas boxes to troops still in Europe.

1946: Citizens approve a $1.3 million bond issue for school improvements.

Infantile paralysis hits the area again, sending 109 to the hospital.

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