HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is certainly nothing new. The area around Hutchinson High School and HutchCC gets very congested during the afternoon dismissal at the high school. The district sent a notice out to students and parents reminding them of ways to make the trip to pick up their student easier.

The school has fielded numerous complaints of students not paying attention to traffic, traffic itself backing up and taking 15 minutes to get through the line. The district says some of the solutions for getting in and out of the area quicker include:

Parking in the Sports Arena lot and have your child walk to you. Another option is to find out where your child's 5th hour is and pick them up on that side of campus. Whether it be on the north side by T-Building or out on Severance to the east of campus, this will greatly reduce the traffic in front of the school.

If you choose to use the crescent drive to have curbside pickup, then you are accepting the chance that you might not make it in and out in 30 seconds. If you choose this route, park on the red fire lane curb to wait for your child, do not park in the middle to wait between cars parked on the curb and cars parked in the parking stalls. This causes cars to be unable to move through the drive to the exit, therefore causing traffic to back up out onto 13th as well as into Severance.

The same goes for 13th Avenue. If you are waiting for your child, park in a legal parking area. Do not stop in the middle of the street to wait for your child. This, again, causes traffic to back up on 13th and Severance.

Lastly, talk to your child about hanging around after school. If you are there to pick them up at 3:24 but they stand at the front of the building hanging out and goofing off with friends for 20 minutes, this only keeps your vehicle in the pick-up line longer than necessary.

The school says it does not want to close down the crescent drive during pick-up, but if this continues, then it’s going to be the next step. Since it is a fire lane, closing the lane may be necessary.

<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/2021/9/1632427903527.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is certainly nothing new. The area around Hutchinson High School and HutchCC gets very congested during the afternoon dismissal at the high school. The district sent a notice out to students and parents reminding them of ways to make the trip to pick up their student easier.The school has fielded numerous complaints of students not paying attention to traffic, traffic itself backing up and taking 15 minutes to get through the line. The district says some of the solutions for getting in and out of the area quicker include:Parking in the Sports Arena lot and have your child walk to you. Another option is to find out where your child's 5th hour is and pick them up on that side of campus. Whether it be on the north side by T-Building or out on Severance to the east of campus, this will greatly reduce the traffic in front of the school.If you choose to use the crescent drive to have curbside pickup, then you are accepting the chance that you might not make it in and out in 30 seconds. If you choose this route, park on the red fire lane curb to wait for your child, do not park in the middle to wait between cars parked on the curb and cars parked in the parking stalls. This causes cars to be unable to move through the drive to the exit, therefore causing traffic to back up out onto 13th as well as into Severance.The same goes for 13th Avenue. If you are waiting for your child, park in a legal parking area. Do not stop in the middle of the street to wait for your child. This, again, causes traffic to back up on 13th and Severance.Lastly, talk to your child about hanging around after school. If you are there to pick them up at 3:24 but they stand at the front of the building hanging out and goofing off with friends for 20 minutes, this only keeps your vehicle in the pick-up line longer than necessary.The school says it does not want to close down the crescent drive during pick-up, but if this continues, then it’s going to be the next step. Since it is a fire lane, closing the lane may be necessary.<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;

Traffic around high school continues to be problematic

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A paperwork error is the reason the Hutchinson City Council is having a special meeting on Tuesday.

According to a memo in the Tuesday agenda from Director of Finance, Angela Richard, she noticed shortly after the city's budget hearing September 7 that the Recreation Commission's mill levy was not part of the state provided publication form she used. 

The State Office of Accounts and Reports told Richard that the rec commission levy did not need to be on the publication for the revenue neutral rate hearing, but staff believes the best action is to republish the form with the Hutchinson Recreation Commission levy included and hold a new budget hearing. The corrected form was published September 17, so the additional meeting is to adopt the corrected form and have another public hearing.

Also on the agenda for Tuesday is the lease of a fire truck to replace Aerial Truck #4. The intent was to perform that transaction next year, but Fire Chief Steven Beer learned from the supplier that there is a 15-month lead time to receive such a truck. The department is getting a lease prepay discount that will actually save them money. Commerce Bank has offered the lowest interest rate at 1.715% with payments of $164,257.13 per year. The payments will begin in 2022.

The special meeting of the Hutchinson City Council will be Tuesday at 9 a.m. at City Hall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632422948399.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A paperwork error is the reason the Hutchinson City Council is having a special meeting on Tuesday.According to a memo in the Tuesday agenda from Director of Finance, Angela Richard, she noticed shortly after the city's budget hearing September 7 that the Recreation Commission's mill levy was not part of the state provided publication form she used. The State Office of Accounts and Reports told Richard that the rec commission levy did not need to be on the publication for the revenue neutral rate hearing, but staff believes the best action is to republish the form with the Hutchinson Recreation Commission levy included and hold a new budget hearing. The corrected form was published September 17, so the additional meeting is to adopt the corrected form and have another public hearing.Also on the agenda for Tuesday is the lease of a fire truck to replace Aerial Truck #4. The intent was to perform that transaction next year, but Fire Chief Steven Beer learned from the supplier that there is a 15-month lead time to receive such a truck. The department is getting a lease prepay discount that will actually save them money. Commerce Bank has offered the lowest interest rate at 1.715% with payments of $164,257.13 per year. The payments will begin in 2022.The special meeting of the Hutchinson City Council will be Tuesday at 9 a.m. at City Hall.

City Council will hold another budget hearing Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Community Foundation recently awarded $13,000 to two nonprofit organizations in the latest round of its 2021 Fund for Hutchinson grant cycle.

Established in 1990, the Fund for Hutchinson serves as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County. Grants represent an innovative approach or collaboration, a new efficiency, a critical need that requires funding or an opportunity that needs a bit of local support to leverage resources for the community.

Proposals for the grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.

The following organizations received grants in September.

Cancer Council of Reno County, $5,000:&nbsp;The longtime director of the cancer council is preparing to retire. Funding provided through this grant will help cover salaries during a six- to eight-week transition period when the outgoing and incoming directors will overlap, supporting the council board’s goal of a smooth and effective transition for staff and continued high-quality and caring service for clients.

Hutchinson’s Historic Fox Theatre, $8,000:&nbsp;Funding will help the Fox address necessary facility upgrades to the heating, cooling and fire sprinkler systems and begin the first steps in planning for the future of the upper levels of the theater.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578349219885.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Community Foundation recently awarded $13,000 to two nonprofit organizations in the latest round of its 2021 Fund for Hutchinson grant cycle.Established in 1990, the Fund for Hutchinson serves as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County. Grants represent an innovative approach or collaboration, a new efficiency, a critical need that requires funding or an opportunity that needs a bit of local support to leverage resources for the community.Proposals for the grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.The following organizations received grants in September.Cancer Council of Reno County, $5,000:&nbsp;The longtime director of the cancer council is preparing to retire. Funding provided through this grant will help cover salaries during a six- to eight-week transition period when the outgoing and incoming directors will overlap, supporting the council board’s goal of a smooth and effective transition for staff and continued high-quality and caring service for clients.Hutchinson’s Historic Fox Theatre, $8,000:&nbsp;Funding will help the Fox address necessary facility upgrades to the heating, cooling and fire sprinkler systems and begin the first steps in planning for the future of the upper levels of the theater.Hutchinson Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire philanthropy, collaboration and innovative leadership to strengthen Reno County communities. Since 1989, the foundation has granted more than $92 million to organizations.

Community foundation awards more than $13K in grants

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The meeting with a mediator to help negotiate a contract between USD 308's staff and its school board is scheduled for next month.

According to an email from Dr. Dawn Johnson with USD 308, that mediation meeting is set for October 27, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. The meeting will be at the USD 308 Admin Center located at 1520 N Plum.

USD 308 should have a much better idea of its budget constraints for the year at this point, as the official enrollment date was Monday and the district has a slight decrease in student population from last school year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The meeting with a mediator to help negotiate a contract between USD 308's staff and its school board is scheduled for next month.According to an email from Dr. Dawn Johnson with USD 308, that mediation meeting is set for October 27, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. The meeting will be at the USD 308 Admin Center located at 1520 N Plum.USD 308 should have a much better idea of its budget constraints for the year at this point, as the official enrollment date was Monday and the district has a slight decrease in student population from last school year.

Meeting with mediator on USD 308 contract set for October 27


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas notes that gas prices have continued to stay pretty much where they have been in recent weeks.

"Here in Kansas and nationally, we're up about a cent from where we were a week ago," Steward said Wednesday. "The average in Kansas is $2.92 a gallon, compared to $3.19 at the national level. Reno County is at $2.93 a gallon, slightly higher than the state wide average."

Kansas is 10th cheapest in the nation this week.

"Hurricane Nicholas sort of complicated and slowed the recovery from Hurricane Ida," Steward said. "The seasonal dropoff in demand has helped mitigate price increases on the week."

The fundamentals may be there for price declines in the medium term.

"Supplies are strong right now and are definitely keeping up with demand," Steward said. "We'll just have to take a look once those refineries here domestically are all back up online. As always, we'll be looking at geopolitical issues in other parts of the world that will impact oil prices."

Traditionally, prices also drop during the period when refineries switch from summer to winter blend gasoline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631897543449.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas notes that gas prices have continued to stay pretty much where they have been in recent weeks."Here in Kansas and nationally, we're up about a cent from where we were a week ago," Steward said Wednesday. "The average in Kansas is $2.92 a gallon, compared to $3.19 at the national level. Reno County is at $2.93 a gallon, slightly higher than the state wide average."Kansas is 10th cheapest in the nation this week."Hurricane Nicholas sort of complicated and slowed the recovery from Hurricane Ida," Steward said. "The seasonal dropoff in demand has helped mitigate price increases on the week."The fundamentals may be there for price declines in the medium term."Supplies are strong right now and are definitely keeping up with demand," Steward said. "We'll just have to take a look once those refineries here domestically are all back up online. As always, we'll be looking at geopolitical issues in other parts of the world that will impact oil prices."Traditionally, prices also drop during the period when refineries switch from summer to winter blend gasoline.

AAA: Gas prices stable again this week


YODER, Kan. — The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center on Wednesday renamed the KLETC East Dormitory in honor of retired KLETC Director Ed Pavey.

"Buildings don't get named every day," said current KLETC Director Darin Beck. "Certainly, they don't get named every day at KLETC, just because we don't build buildings that often. It's kind of a rare thing and we've only done that a handful of times, so to have a building named after you at KLETC is a substantial thing."

The ceremony, like so many things in the past couple of years, was delayed due to COVID-19.

"Pavey Hall was actually named nearly a year ago now, over a year," Beck said. "We've been sitting and waiting for when we could get together again as a group of people and come together to celebrate what a great thing it is the Regents have done by naming this building in Ed's honor."

Pavey didn't know the naming was being proposed until after it happened.

"I'm very, very humbled to be here and honored to receive this award," Pavey said. "The recognition of having a building named after you was not in my wildest dreams that would actually happen. My family and I sure appreciate and we will cherish that naming for generations to come."

Speakers at the event included KLETC Executive Director Darin Beck, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, Kansas Representative John Carmichael, and Interim Vice Provost for KU Lifelong &amp; Professional Education Emily Zentner.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632397743646.jpeg" alt="Ed Pavey-Courtesy Wichita Metro Crime Commission" />
 <figcaption>Ed Pavey-Courtesy Wichita Metro Crime Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
YODER, Kan. — The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center on Wednesday renamed the KLETC East Dormitory in honor of retired KLETC Director Ed Pavey."Buildings don't get named every day," said current KLETC Director Darin Beck. "Certainly, they don't get named every day at KLETC, just because we don't build buildings that often. It's kind of a rare thing and we've only done that a handful of times, so to have a building named after you at KLETC is a substantial thing."The ceremony, like so many things in the past couple of years, was delayed due to COVID-19."Pavey Hall was actually named nearly a year ago now, over a year," Beck said. "We've been sitting and waiting for when we could get together again as a group of people and come together to celebrate what a great thing it is the Regents have done by naming this building in Ed's honor."Pavey didn't know the naming was being proposed until after it happened."I'm very, very humbled to be here and honored to receive this award," Pavey said. "The recognition of having a building named after you was not in my wildest dreams that would actually happen. My family and I sure appreciate and we will cherish that naming for generations to come."Speakers at the event included KLETC Executive Director Darin Beck, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, Kansas Representative John Carmichael, and Interim Vice Provost for KU Lifelong &amp; Professional Education Emily Zentner.

KLETC holds event for naming of dorm in honor of Ed Pavey, retired director

Dale Younker, Soil Health Specialist, Natural Resources Conservation Service

One of the biggest concerns I hear about cover crops in dryland cropping systems is that they use moisture that is needed for the next cash crop. I will concede that cover crops use moisture, just like any living, growing green plant. But do they use any more moisture than what is typically lost during the fallow period anyway.

Research from USDA-ARS Great Plains Research Centers and Kansas State University Research and Extension show that only about 25% of the moisture received during a fallow period is captured and stored in the soil. This varies depending on the type and amount of tillage done, weather conditions, soil type and so on. The rest is lost through runoff, evaporation, transpiration from weeds and deep percolation below the root zone. Based on those losses, a field that receives 20 inches of moisture during the fallow period will only gain about 5 inches of soil moisture for the next cash crop and 15 inches is just lost. The question then becomes, can we grow a cover crop on the moisture we are losing anyway to help decrease evaporation, improve infiltration rates, increase water holding capacity and provide other soil health benefits? I believe that we can If the cover crop mix is properly designed, and planted and terminated timely

Millets are a good base for summer cover crop mixes planted into wheat stubble. These low water use, shallow rooted species grow and mature quickly once they are established. Because of the small seed size, they need be planted no more than about an inch deep. With the small seed size a few pounds go a long way in the mix, so they are very economical to use. Adding a pound or two deep rooted species like radishes or sunflower will help break compaction layers that most cropped fields have. A legume, like sunn hemp, could also be added if allowed to grow long enough to fix nitrogen. I prefer to plant these mixes as soon after harvest as soon as possible if there is enough soil moisture to get the seeds to geminate and come up. If not, the planting can be delayed up to mid-August. Most of these mixes are designed to die after a hard freeze but if conditions become dry, or if a large flush of volunteer wheat comes up, the cover crop should be terminated earlier to limit its moisture use.

I like planting cover crops in the fall, behind grain sorghum and corn if they can be planted prior to November 1st. Winter cereal grains like wheat, triticale, rye and barley provide a good base for these mixes. Adding a pound or two of turnips and radishes will help break up compaction layers. A legume, like winter peas, or a vetch, could be added to help fix some nitrogen. After November 1st I would delay the planting until early spring and use oats as the base of the mix. If growing conditions are favorable, and the field is going to wheat the next fall, I would delay termination of these mixes to about the early heading stage. If another fall crop is going to be planted that spring, or If conditions become dry, you may want to terminate earlier.

Consider the economics when incorporating cover crops into you cropping system and figure your all your costs and returns. It takes money to establish a cover crop, but that cost may be offset with less spray and/or tillage passes during the fallow period. Other economic gains can be made by potentially grazing the cover crop and increased weed suppression.

We have several producers in western Kansas successfully incorporating cover crops in their fallow cropping systems. As a rule, their cash crop yields haven’t decreased and some years they have seen dramatic increases. The key to their success is paying attention to detail, using the right cover crop mix, and planting and terminating in a timely manner based on the weather and field conditions.

For more information about this or other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@ks.usda.gov or any local NRCS office.

NRCS is an equal opportunity employer and provider

Dale Younker, Soil Health Specialist, Natural Resources Conservation ServiceOne of the biggest concerns I hear about cover crops in dryland cropping systems is that they use moisture that is needed for the next cash crop. I will concede that cover crops use moisture, just like any living, growing green plant. But do they use any more moisture than what is typically lost during the fallow period anyway.Research from USDA-ARS Great Plains Research Centers and Kansas State University Research and Extension show that only about 25% of the moisture received during a fallow period is captured and stored in the soil. This varies depending on the type and amount of tillage done, weather conditions, soil type and so on. The rest is lost through runoff, evaporation, transpiration from weeds and deep percolation below the root zone. Based on those losses, a field that receives 20 inches of moisture during the fallow period will only gain about 5 inches of soil moisture for the next cash crop and 15 inches is just lost. The question then becomes, can we grow a cover crop on the moisture we are losing anyway to help decrease evaporation, improve infiltration rates, increase water holding capacity and provide other soil health benefits? I believe that we can If the cover crop mix is properly designed, and planted and terminated timelyMillets are a good base for summer cover crop mixes planted into wheat stubble. These low water use, shallow rooted species grow and mature quickly once they are established. Because of the small seed size, they need be planted no more than about an inch deep. With the small seed size a few pounds go a long way in the mix, so they are very economical to use. Adding a pound or two deep rooted species like radishes or sunflower will help break compaction layers that most cropped fields have. A legume, like sunn hemp, could also be added if allowed to grow long enough to fix nitrogen. I prefer to plant these mixes as soon after harvest as soon as possible if there is enough soil moisture to get the seeds to geminate and come up. If not, the planting can be delayed up to mid-August. Most of these mixes are designed to die after a hard freeze but if conditions become dry, or if a large flush of volunteer wheat comes up, the cover crop should be terminated earlier to limit its moisture use.I like planting cover crops in the fall, behind grain sorghum and corn if they can be planted prior to November 1st. Winter cereal grains like wheat, triticale, rye and barley provide a good base for these mixes. Adding a pound or two of turnips and radishes will help break up compaction layers. A legume, like winter peas, or a vetch, could be added to help fix some nitrogen. After November 1st I would delay the planting until early spring and use oats as the base of the mix. If growing conditions are favorable, and the field is going to wheat the next fall, I would delay termination of these mixes to about the early heading stage. If another fall crop is going to be planted that spring, or If conditions become dry, you may want to terminate earlier.Consider the economics when incorporating cover crops into you cropping system and figure your all your costs and returns. It takes money to establish a cover crop, but that cost may be offset with less spray and/or tillage passes during the fallow period. Other economic gains can be made by potentially grazing the cover crop and increased weed suppression.We have several producers in western Kansas successfully incorporating cover crops in their fallow cropping systems. As a rule, their cash crop yields haven’t decreased and some years they have seen dramatic increases. The key to their success is paying attention to detail, using the right cover crop mix, and planting and terminating in a timely manner based on the weather and field conditions.For more information about this or other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@ks.usda.gov or any local NRCS office.NRCS is an equal opportunity employer and provider

Cover Crops in Dryland Cropping Systems

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two Hutchinson High School students have been named National Merit Semifinalist for 2022. Thaddaeus Blakley and Micah Wenger are up for the prestigious award.

Both students entered the 2022 competition by taking the 2020 preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. As a semifinalist, Blakley and Wenger represent two of 16,000 semifinalists, which account for less than 1 percent of each state’s high school seniors.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual competition that recognizes academic excellence in high school students. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which dates back to 1955.

“I was extremely relieved to hear that I was a semifinalist,” Blakley said. “I had prepared for months and worked extraordinarily hard to get a good score. I would tell other students taking the test to not leave anything up to chance. Enjoy preparing for the test.”

“I took the test sophomore and junior year because it only counts once you’re a senior,” Wenger said. “It’s kind of nice to have the recognition that I did well.”

To become finalists, Blakley and Wenger will need to meet additional standards that take into account test scores, volunteer service, honors and awards, and leadership positions. If these requirements are met, the two seniors are in the running to receive one of three types of scholarships offered by the National Merit Scholarship Program. The recipients of these scholarships will be announced in the spring of 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632342262660.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two Hutchinson High School students have been named National Merit Semifinalist for 2022. Thaddaeus Blakley and Micah Wenger are up for the prestigious award.Both students entered the 2022 competition by taking the 2020 preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. As a semifinalist, Blakley and Wenger represent two of 16,000 semifinalists, which account for less than 1 percent of each state’s high school seniors.The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual competition that recognizes academic excellence in high school students. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which dates back to 1955.“I was extremely relieved to hear that I was a semifinalist,” Blakley said. “I had prepared for months and worked extraordinarily hard to get a good score. I would tell other students taking the test to not leave anything up to chance. Enjoy preparing for the test.”“I took the test sophomore and junior year because it only counts once you’re a senior,” Wenger said. “It’s kind of nice to have the recognition that I did well.”To become finalists, Blakley and Wenger will need to meet additional standards that take into account test scores, volunteer service, honors and awards, and leadership positions. If these requirements are met, the two seniors are in the running to receive one of three types of scholarships offered by the National Merit Scholarship Program. The recipients of these scholarships will be announced in the spring of 2022.<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;

Two HHS students named National Merit semifinalists

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Formal charges have been brought against a Hutchinson man who led authorities on a high speed chase Sept. 14th.

Clancy Nelson is charged with two counts of kidnapping, distribution of meth, distribution and possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of meth, felony flee and elude, flee and elude with reckless driving and possession of drug paraphernalia. He’s still held on a bond of $221,000.

Nelson fled from law enforcement as they tried to make a vehicle stop in the city. The chase went south on Avenue A to U.S. 50 and then east at speeds of up to 90 miles per hour. Deputies were able to force Nelson off the road near Burrton.&nbsp;

One of two passengers in the vehicle, Heather Smith, was also arrested for drug distribution and other warrants. The second passenger, Spencer Mullen, was released from the scene.

According to the SO the two passengers wanted out of the vehicle during the chase but Nelson refused thus the kidnapping charges.&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/2019/8/1565313643582.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Formal charges have been brought against a Hutchinson man who led authorities on a high speed chase Sept. 14th.Clancy Nelson is charged with two counts of kidnapping, distribution of meth, distribution and possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of meth, felony flee and elude, flee and elude with reckless driving and possession of drug paraphernalia. He’s still held on a bond of $221,000.Nelson fled from law enforcement as they tried to make a vehicle stop in the city. The chase went south on Avenue A to U.S. 50 and then east at speeds of up to 90 miles per hour. Deputies were able to force Nelson off the road near Burrton.&nbsp;One of two passengers in the vehicle, Heather Smith, was also arrested for drug distribution and other warrants. The second passenger, Spencer Mullen, was released from the scene.According to the SO the two passengers wanted out of the vehicle during the chase but Nelson refused thus the kidnapping charges.&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.

Nelson formally charged in high speed chase

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested after he allegedly threatened two people with a gun while their children were present.

Police say 59-year-old Tommie Jones was taken into custody just before 5 p.m. Tuesday on two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of aggravated child endangerment, felony interference with law enforcement and unlawful discharge of a firearm.&nbsp;

Preliminary reports say the two people were threatened by Jones in the 1700 block of E 4th Avenue after the two men got into an argument over the storage of some of Jones’ property in the building. During the argument, Jones produced a handgun and shot it in the direction of the couple.&nbsp;

Jones fled the scene but was found at his home in the 1200 block of East Avenue C. He was observed leaving the residence and was stopped by Hutchinson Police and taken into custody. He is currently free on bond. There were no injuries.

<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/2021/3/1617144110933.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested after he allegedly threatened two people with a gun while their children were present.Police say 59-year-old Tommie Jones was taken into custody just before 5 p.m. Tuesday on two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of aggravated child endangerment, felony interference with law enforcement and unlawful discharge of a firearm.&nbsp;Preliminary reports say the two people were threatened by Jones in the 1700 block of E 4th Avenue after the two men got into an argument over the storage of some of Jones’ property in the building. During the argument, Jones produced a handgun and shot it in the direction of the couple.&nbsp;Jones fled the scene but was found at his home in the 1200 block of East Avenue C. He was observed leaving the residence and was stopped by Hutchinson Police and taken into custody. He is currently free on bond. There were no injuries.<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;

Man arrested after altercation with Hutchinson couple


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt still doesn't have the language of the rule proposed by President Joe Biden earlier this month that would give employers with over 100 employees the choice to vaccinate or frequently test their employees for COVID-19.

"Those rules have not been published yet and so we continue to wait," Schmidt said. "We have to see them before we have a chance to evaluate their legality, which I think is suspect on its face and then decide how we're going to challenge them."

Schmidt notes that the legal ground is different for some of the other potential mandates from the administration.

"There's the so-called CMS mandate, the mandate for nursing home workers and for public health workers," Schmidt said. "We're in the process with some other states of really taking a hard look at those to see if there's a legal basis to challenge them. They're a little legally different from the general employer mandate. The analysis is a bit different. The bottom line, I was talking with some folks the other day who operate nursing facilities, long-term care facilities in Kansas and they said they are losing employees."

According to a survey from the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living, 86 percent of nursing homes and 77 percent of assisted living providers said their workforce situation has gotten worse over the last three months.

"At the end of the day, we have a number of facilities that barely are hanging on as it is," Schmidt said. "They have trouble getting employees. The last thing we need is a federal mandate that puts long-term care facilities out of business in this state."

Only one percent of nursing homes nationally describe themselves as fully staffed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623147851264.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt still doesn't have the language of the rule proposed by President Joe Biden earlier this month that would give employers with over 100 employees the choice to vaccinate or frequently test their employees for COVID-19."Those rules have not been published yet and so we continue to wait," Schmidt said. "We have to see them before we have a chance to evaluate their legality, which I think is suspect on its face and then decide how we're going to challenge them."Schmidt notes that the legal ground is different for some of the other potential mandates from the administration."There's the so-called CMS mandate, the mandate for nursing home workers and for public health workers," Schmidt said. "We're in the process with some other states of really taking a hard look at those to see if there's a legal basis to challenge them. They're a little legally different from the general employer mandate. The analysis is a bit different. The bottom line, I was talking with some folks the other day who operate nursing facilities, long-term care facilities in Kansas and they said they are losing employees."According to a survey from the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living, 86 percent of nursing homes and 77 percent of assisted living providers said their workforce situation has gotten worse over the last three months."At the end of the day, we have a number of facilities that barely are hanging on as it is," Schmidt said. "They have trouble getting employees. The last thing we need is a federal mandate that puts long-term care facilities out of business in this state."Only one percent of nursing homes nationally describe themselves as fully staffed.

Schmidt: Still waiting on vaccine rule specifics

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council tabled any action on how to distribute FEMA funds that were handed out as part of the recovery from the 2019 flood. According to City Clerk April Beshears, the council wanted more time to study where the funds should go.

One portion of those funds will go back into the sewer fund totaling just under $22,000. The city suffered a lift station failure during the flood and that money will reimburse the city for those repair costs.&nbsp;

The other reimbursement totals just under $63,000. Beshears says the money was to help pay for costs of repairs which centered mostly around the city streets and the cost of equipment to make those repairs. Since the city has already paid for those repairs the money has been put in the general fund to be used as the council sees fit. Those decisions could come at their October meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597851283659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council tabled any action on how to distribute FEMA funds that were handed out as part of the recovery from the 2019 flood. According to City Clerk April Beshears, the council wanted more time to study where the funds should go.One portion of those funds will go back into the sewer fund totaling just under $22,000. The city suffered a lift station failure during the flood and that money will reimburse the city for those repair costs.&nbsp;The other reimbursement totals just under $63,000. Beshears says the money was to help pay for costs of repairs which centered mostly around the city streets and the cost of equipment to make those repairs. Since the city has already paid for those repairs the money has been put in the general fund to be used as the council sees fit. Those decisions could come at their October meeting.<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;

Nickerson City Council tables action on FEMA funds


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As part of the South Hutchinson City Council meeting Monday, the city agreed to sign the appropriate paperwork to use a KDOT grant for part of the cost of the Scott Boulevard bridge.

"We're cautiously optimistic that we can use the $150,000 grant funding that was previously awarded on the bridge replacement project," said City Administrator Joseph Turner. "That will further reduce the cost, so we're pretty excited about that."

Reno County has previously stated that they believe the new bridge can be built for $350,000.

"I don't think that there's going to be anything that is going to trip us up on using the funds," Turner said. "I don't want to guarantee that those funds are going to be applied until we get further down the road."

The hope is that with this application, the cost can be in the $200,000 range to city taxpayers and Turner doesn't see that slowing the actual work, either.

"I'm not sure exactly what the timeline is for the sequencing on this, because of the weather coming up and there's the engineering aspect," Turner said. "It's going to be happening pretty quick here, because we're expecting the bridge to be completed in the spring."

The county and city have agreed to allow Reno County Public Works to provide whatever non-monetary assistance they can on the project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625670541260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As part of the South Hutchinson City Council meeting Monday, the city agreed to sign the appropriate paperwork to use a KDOT grant for part of the cost of the Scott Boulevard bridge."We're cautiously optimistic that we can use the $150,000 grant funding that was previously awarded on the bridge replacement project," said City Administrator Joseph Turner. "That will further reduce the cost, so we're pretty excited about that."Reno County has previously stated that they believe the new bridge can be built for $350,000."I don't think that there's going to be anything that is going to trip us up on using the funds," Turner said. "I don't want to guarantee that those funds are going to be applied until we get further down the road."The hope is that with this application, the cost can be in the $200,000 range to city taxpayers and Turner doesn't see that slowing the actual work, either."I'm not sure exactly what the timeline is for the sequencing on this, because of the weather coming up and there's the engineering aspect," Turner said. "It's going to be happening pretty quick here, because we're expecting the bridge to be completed in the spring."The county and city have agreed to allow Reno County Public Works to provide whatever non-monetary assistance they can on the project.

South Hutch will try to apply KDOT grant to bridge project

RENO COUNTY — 
One person was taken from the scene of an accident between a motorcycle and another vehicle Tuesday night east of Hutchinson.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, around 7:05 p.m. Tuesday, deputies were called to the intersection of East 4th and North Mayfield Road. 

Twenty-five-year-old Jeremiah Hayden was riding northbound on his motorcycle on Mayfield when he failed to yield at the stop sign at 4th and struck the driver's side of a vehicle driven by 62-year-old Sherry Bosley. Hayden was thrown from the motorcycle and Bosley's vehicle was pushed partially off the roadway to the north. Bosley tried to get back on the road and overcorrected and began sliding sideways to the south entered the ditch and came to rest against a metal fence on the south side of 4th. Bosley was trapped because the driver's door was jammed.

Hayden was taken to Hutchinson Regional to be checked out. Bosley refused treatment at the scene. Hayden did not have a helmet on. Bosley was buckled up. Airbags did not deploy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — 
One person was taken from the scene of an accident between a motorcycle and another vehicle Tuesday night east of Hutchinson.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, around 7:05 p.m. Tuesday, deputies were called to the intersection of East 4th and North Mayfield Road. Twenty-five-year-old Jeremiah Hayden was riding northbound on his motorcycle on Mayfield when he failed to yield at the stop sign at 4th and struck the driver's side of a vehicle driven by 62-year-old Sherry Bosley. Hayden was thrown from the motorcycle and Bosley's vehicle was pushed partially off the roadway to the north. Bosley tried to get back on the road and overcorrected and began sliding sideways to the south entered the ditch and came to rest against a metal fence on the south side of 4th. Bosley was trapped because the driver's door was jammed.Hayden was taken to Hutchinson Regional to be checked out. Bosley refused treatment at the scene. Hayden did not have a helmet on. Bosley was buckled up. Airbags did not deploy.

One person hurt in Tuesday evening accident


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education had its first September board meeting at Lincoln Elementary earlier this month and the idea is to get the board and the public into the district's buildings.

"We really want USD 308 to be unified and supported all together," said Marissa Meis with USD 308. "What better way to do that than to actually get into our buildings and allow the community to see the amazing things that our schools are doing. This allows our principals and our administrators to really take the reins on and give tours. Lincoln was so cool, because they have a community garden. Board members were able to take home some vegetables from that garden and you wouldn't be able to get that if we were only holding our meetings at the administration center."

Meis said there really haven't been any technical issues with streaming the meetings when they go on the road.

"There's always some staging effects that we have to do to make sure that everything looks good and make sure that everybody's still able to see and hear, but our technology department is so amazing," Meis said. "We're able to make sure that the setup is good at each school and we're excited to do it."

Despite some struggles earlier this school year, the district is continuing to put its meetings on Facebook.

"We are still streaming through Facebook," Meis said. "That is the most known way that we are streaming. We didn't want to shift it and people not be able to find it. We decided Facebook was still the best way to go, but because of that previous meeting that we did have some technical issues with, we have some new backup strategies to make sure that our meetings are backed up in a separate place, so if, for whatever reason our stream goes down or something like that, we are able to recover it."

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/54611398-82e7-4a86-9a25-bab5e1e8ee7c">The recording of the August 9 school board meeting was originally taken off the social media site without the district's knowledge.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education had its first September board meeting at Lincoln Elementary earlier this month and the idea is to get the board and the public into the district's buildings."We really want USD 308 to be unified and supported all together," said Marissa Meis with USD 308. "What better way to do that than to actually get into our buildings and allow the community to see the amazing things that our schools are doing. This allows our principals and our administrators to really take the reins on and give tours. Lincoln was so cool, because they have a community garden. Board members were able to take home some vegetables from that garden and you wouldn't be able to get that if we were only holding our meetings at the administration center."Meis said there really haven't been any technical issues with streaming the meetings when they go on the road."There's always some staging effects that we have to do to make sure that everything looks good and make sure that everybody's still able to see and hear, but our technology department is so amazing," Meis said. "We're able to make sure that the setup is good at each school and we're excited to do it."Despite some struggles earlier this school year, the district is continuing to put its meetings on Facebook."We are still streaming through Facebook," Meis said. "That is the most known way that we are streaming. We didn't want to shift it and people not be able to find it. We decided Facebook was still the best way to go, but because of that previous meeting that we did have some technical issues with, we have some new backup strategies to make sure that our meetings are backed up in a separate place, so if, for whatever reason our stream goes down or something like that, we are able to recover it."<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/54611398-82e7-4a86-9a25-bab5e1e8ee7c">The recording of the August 9 school board meeting was originally taken off the social media site without the district's knowledge.</a>

Getting USD 308 board and public into buildings seen as positive

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Another Scooter's Coffee is coming to Hutchinson. This one will be at 1701 E. 30th at the southeast corner of 30th and Waldron.

The owners of the first Scooter's at 30th and Plum, Jessica and Justin Gillette, will be the owners of this franchise as well.

Preliminary dirt work has started and the final building permits should be issued this week, according to City Planner Ryan Hvitlok.

Hvitlok says plans are to open the new Scooter's in November.

Editor's Note: A previous version of this story incorrectly identified the southwest corner of 30th and Waldron.

<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/2019/10/1570794664824.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Another Scooter's Coffee is coming to Hutchinson. This one will be at 1701 E. 30th at the southeast corner of 30th and Waldron.The owners of the first Scooter's at 30th and Plum, Jessica and Justin Gillette, will be the owners of this franchise as well.Preliminary dirt work has started and the final building permits should be issued this week, according to City Planner Ryan Hvitlok.Hvitlok says plans are to open the new Scooter's in November.Editor's Note: A previous version of this story incorrectly identified the southwest corner of 30th and Waldron.<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.

New Scooter's to open at 30th and Waldron

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven City Council gave approval to enter into an agreement with the USD 312 School District to purchase land for a new housing development.&nbsp;

The option to purchase agreement already approved by USD 312 calls for the city to pay $300 for the option to purchase real estate behind the school district office for $50,000.&nbsp;

The agreement was overlooked during a past meeting and did have two changes. One is the request for the city to pay the entire cost of the title insurance and the second is to pay $300 rather than $100 for the option to purchase. The agenda item passed unanimously. The city hopes to establish Wildcat Landing on a parcel of land north of the USD 312 administrative offices.

Also Monday night, the council approved a request from the Chamber for a fireworks permit for a display to be held during the Haven Fall Festival, and approved a new five-year contract with Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk and Loyd to provide budget and audit work for the city.&nbsp;

The council also addressed concerns expressed by one council member over grass clippings being blown into the street. The council may consider an ordinance copied from one established by the city of Iola. The matter will be discussed at the next council meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090767638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven City Council gave approval to enter into an agreement with the USD 312 School District to purchase land for a new housing development.&nbsp;The option to purchase agreement already approved by USD 312 calls for the city to pay $300 for the option to purchase real estate behind the school district office for $50,000.&nbsp;The agreement was overlooked during a past meeting and did have two changes. One is the request for the city to pay the entire cost of the title insurance and the second is to pay $300 rather than $100 for the option to purchase. The agenda item passed unanimously. The city hopes to establish Wildcat Landing on a parcel of land north of the USD 312 administrative offices.Also Monday night, the council approved a request from the Chamber for a fireworks permit for a display to be held during the Haven Fall Festival, and approved a new five-year contract with Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk and Loyd to provide budget and audit work for the city.&nbsp;The council also addressed concerns expressed by one council member over grass clippings being blown into the street. The council may consider an ordinance copied from one established by the city of Iola. The matter will be discussed at the next council meeting.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Haven City Council approves agreement for land purchase


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council passed its resolution Tuesday saying that they will listen to recommendations from community groups before spending federal COVID relief funds.

"We are trying to finish these meetings," said Aubrey Abbott Patterson with the Hutchinson Community Foundation. "We'd said September 30th. It looks like we are going to get more meetings in the first two weeks of October. Then, our consultants at K-State will take the data and return it to us in the form of a report and what they see in trends and patterns and suggestions from our community, I'd say in November."

There are a couple of ways to provide your input.

"I do know, another option would be for anybody in our city to <a href="https://rallyreno.org/meeting-schedule/">go to rallyreno.org, look up the meetings and find one that says it's public, that it's open to anybody and just show up</a>," Patterson said. "If you want to convene a group of your own, by all means, just submit a meeting and we will send a trained facilitator there to host the 90-minute meeting."

The search for public input is consistent with federal requirements for the money. The resolution passed unanimously.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630684125903.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council passed its resolution Tuesday saying that they will listen to recommendations from community groups before spending federal COVID relief funds."We are trying to finish these meetings," said Aubrey Abbott Patterson with the Hutchinson Community Foundation. "We'd said September 30th. It looks like we are going to get more meetings in the first two weeks of October. Then, our consultants at K-State will take the data and return it to us in the form of a report and what they see in trends and patterns and suggestions from our community, I'd say in November."There are a couple of ways to provide your input."I do know, another option would be for anybody in our city to <a href="https://rallyreno.org/meeting-schedule/">go to rallyreno.org, look up the meetings and find one that says it's public, that it's open to anybody and just show up</a>," Patterson said. "If you want to convene a group of your own, by all means, just submit a meeting and we will send a trained facilitator there to host the 90-minute meeting."The search for public input is consistent with federal requirements for the money. The resolution passed unanimously.

Meetings still ongoing for federal COVID funds input

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Dillon Lecture Series kicked off again Tuesday after more than 18 months away due to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The speaker was Colonel Mark Tillman who was a pilot for Air Force One.&nbsp; Tillman was chosen as the nation’s 12th Presidential Pilot and served as commander of Air Force One for eight years under President George W. Bush. Tillman talked about how he became the most important pilot in the free world.

“After I graduated (from college) my plan was to just be an engineer,” said Tillman.”They sent me to an intelligence unit technology division where I was designing rocket engines.”&nbsp;

After some time Tillman decided he wanted to do more.

“You can only design so many rocket engines,” Tillman said. “I applied to pilot training and the rest is history.” 

Tillman spent most of his time flying C-130 cargo planes all over the world before getting his chance to head the group flying Air Force One.&nbsp;Tillman was the pilot on Air Force One when the September 11 terrorist attacks happened. He spoke about the challenges of keeping the president safe and having to react moment to moment.

“We took off at 9:55 (from Sarasota, Florida) . We were getting word about what was going on with Flight 93 over the Ohio Valley that they (passengers) are trying to take control of the aircraft,” Tillman said. “So that’s kind of giving hope for us. But within minutes of heading to Washington D.C. everything changes again, the plane is gone.”

Despite being in the cockpit, Tillman says he was very aware of the conversations going on in the other parts of the plane.

“Everybody was right below the cockpit in the president’s quarters,” Tillman said. “At one point I came down to interject what (then Chief of Staff) Andy Card needed. Then after that it became easier, Andy Card would come to the cockpit. We’d sit down and discuss all of the various options.”

Eventually the conversations between President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney were piped into the cockpit for Tillman and the crew to hear.&nbsp;

It wasn’t the only tricky mission Tillman had flying President Bush around. Tillman also talked about the time President Bush decided he was having Thanksgiving dinner with the troops in Iraq.

“In 2003 the President said he’s going into Baghdad whether we like it or not. He advised us that he's going to go have Thanksgiving dinner with the troops,” Tillman said. “I get called over to the White House and given my marching orders to come up with a plan of attack.”

Tillman says the president did not want the military to get involved to limit the risk against the service men and women. At the time of takeoff from Texas, fewer than 10 people knew the president was going to Iraq.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tillman says while he was the head of Air Force One flight wing he always took into account all of the staff and personnel that it took to fly, maintain and staff the plane that carried the president. His last mission was to fly the now civilian former President Bush back to Texas. He resigned from the Air Force One crew after that.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632240580217.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Dillon Lecture Series kicked off again Tuesday after more than 18 months away due to the pandemic.&nbsp;The speaker was Colonel Mark Tillman who was a pilot for Air Force One.&nbsp; Tillman was chosen as the nation’s 12th Presidential Pilot and served as commander of Air Force One for eight years under President George W. Bush. Tillman talked about how he became the most important pilot in the free world.“After I graduated (from college) my plan was to just be an engineer,” said Tillman.”They sent me to an intelligence unit technology division where I was designing rocket engines.”&nbsp;After some time Tillman decided he wanted to do more.“You can only design so many rocket engines,” Tillman said. “I applied to pilot training and the rest is history.” Tillman spent most of his time flying C-130 cargo planes all over the world before getting his chance to head the group flying Air Force One.&nbsp;Tillman was the pilot on Air Force One when the September 11 terrorist attacks happened. He spoke about the challenges of keeping the president safe and having to react moment to moment.“We took off at 9:55 (from Sarasota, Florida) . We were getting word about what was going on with Flight 93 over the Ohio Valley that they (passengers) are trying to take control of the aircraft,” Tillman said. “So that’s kind of giving hope for us. But within minutes of heading to Washington D.C. everything changes again, the plane is gone.”Despite being in the cockpit, Tillman says he was very aware of the conversations going on in the other parts of the plane.“Everybody was right below the cockpit in the president’s quarters,” Tillman said. “At one point I came down to interject what (then Chief of Staff) Andy Card needed. Then after that it became easier, Andy Card would come to the cockpit. We’d sit down and discuss all of the various options.”Eventually the conversations between President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney were piped into the cockpit for Tillman and the crew to hear.&nbsp;It wasn’t the only tricky mission Tillman had flying President Bush around. Tillman also talked about the time President Bush decided he was having Thanksgiving dinner with the troops in Iraq.“In 2003 the President said he’s going into Baghdad whether we like it or not. He advised us that he's going to go have Thanksgiving dinner with the troops,” Tillman said. “I get called over to the White House and given my marching orders to come up with a plan of attack.”Tillman says the president did not want the military to get involved to limit the risk against the service men and women. At the time of takeoff from Texas, fewer than 10 people knew the president was going to Iraq.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tillman says while he was the head of Air Force One flight wing he always took into account all of the staff and personnel that it took to fly, maintain and staff the plane that carried the president. His last mission was to fly the now civilian former President Bush back to Texas. He resigned from the Air Force One crew after that.<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;

Tillman speaks of being the pilot of Air Force One during Dillon Lecture


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
USD 308's enrollment numbers taken on Monday are not quite what were estimated, according to USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks.

"We're not going to be up in enrollment," Folks said. "We're just going to be slightly down overall prek-12. Last year, we had 4,068 and the numbers came in at 4,035. That's a 33-student drop."

Folks hasn't had much time to drill down into the numbers, but he notes that the virtual school has done well.

"Our virtual school in its first year has 137," Folks said. "Hutchinson High School is down 101 from last year, but of the 137 enrolled in the virtual school, 86 of those are Hutch High or high school age students."

Folks did say there will be some budget impact from lower enrollment, but it's less than was feared earlier on.

"The good news in all of this, the trend had been between a two and a three percent decline in enrollment every year, somewhere between 90 and 120 students. This year, the decline is much less."

The next meeting of the Hutchinson Unified Superintendent Advisory Council is September 29.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579618707683.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
USD 308's enrollment numbers taken on Monday are not quite what were estimated, according to USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks."We're not going to be up in enrollment," Folks said. "We're just going to be slightly down overall prek-12. Last year, we had 4,068 and the numbers came in at 4,035. That's a 33-student drop."Folks hasn't had much time to drill down into the numbers, but he notes that the virtual school has done well."Our virtual school in its first year has 137," Folks said. "Hutchinson High School is down 101 from last year, but of the 137 enrolled in the virtual school, 86 of those are Hutch High or high school age students."Folks did say there will be some budget impact from lower enrollment, but it's less than was feared earlier on."The good news in all of this, the trend had been between a two and a three percent decline in enrollment every year, somewhere between 90 and 120 students. This year, the decline is much less."The next meeting of the Hutchinson Unified Superintendent Advisory Council is September 29.

USD 308 with slight enrollment decline

RENO COUNTY —&nbsp;The Reno County Sheriff's Office reported on Facebook Monday that they have had some stolen vehicles lately in the far western part of the county. Valuables, including keys, have been left behind.

"We know things happen and keys can be forgotten or in some cases, folks feel like since they are so rurally located, they won’t be a victim of a vehicle theft," the Sheriff's Office said. "Unfortunately, thieves are counting on this and will take advantage of the circumstances."

The Sheriff's office is asking all residents to take your keys out of your vehicles, including your farm trucks &amp; equipment. 

If you see anything suspicious, please call 911. 

If you have any information about the recent thefts give the Sheriff's Office a call at 620-694-2735 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, where you can remain anonymous.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —&nbsp;The Reno County Sheriff's Office reported on Facebook Monday that they have had some stolen vehicles lately in the far western part of the county. Valuables, including keys, have been left behind. "We know things happen and keys can be forgotten or in some cases, folks feel like since they are so rurally located, they won’t be a victim of a vehicle theft," the Sheriff's Office said. "Unfortunately, thieves are counting on this and will take advantage of the circumstances."The Sheriff's office is asking all residents to take your keys out of your vehicles, including your farm trucks &amp; equipment. If you see anything suspicious, please call 911. If you have any information about the recent thefts give the Sheriff's Office a call at 620-694-2735 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, where you can remain anonymous.

Sheriff's office posts about rural vehicle thefts

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has received the American Heart Association’s Silver Plus Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Quality Achievement Award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.

Get With The Guidelines-Stroke was developed to assist healthcare professionals to provide the most up-to-date, research-based guidelines for treating stroke patients.

Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said the award is especially significant this year in that it was achieved at the same time that the hospital dealt with a worldwide pandemic.

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center also received the Association’s Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet quality measures developed to reduce the time between the patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with the clot-buster tissue plasminogen activator, or tPA, the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ischemic stroke.

Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the U.S.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632166875268.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has received the American Heart Association’s Silver Plus Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Quality Achievement Award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.Get With The Guidelines-Stroke was developed to assist healthcare professionals to provide the most up-to-date, research-based guidelines for treating stroke patients.Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said the award is especially significant this year in that it was achieved at the same time that the hospital dealt with a worldwide pandemic.Hutchinson Regional Medical Center also received the Association’s Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet quality measures developed to reduce the time between the patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with the clot-buster tissue plasminogen activator, or tPA, the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ischemic stroke.Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HRMC recognized for treatment of strokes

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced that, starting Tuesday, a portion of West 17th Avenue will be closed between James and Graber streets for repair work.

During this time, the street will be closed to all through traffic and detours will be set up around the construction work.&nbsp;

Weather permitting, the street will be closed until Tuesday, Sept. 28. If you have any questions about this or any other city street project, contact Public Works at 620-694-1900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621458704710.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced that, starting Tuesday, a portion of West 17th Avenue will be closed between James and Graber streets for repair work.During this time, the street will be closed to all through traffic and detours will be set up around the construction work.&nbsp;Weather permitting, the street will be closed until Tuesday, Sept. 28. If you have any questions about this or any other city street project, contact Public Works at 620-694-1900.<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.

West 17th closed from Graber to James starting Tuesday


WICHITA — 
The Kapaun Family and the Diocese of Wichita are planning the transport of Father Emil Kapaun’s remains to Wichita in just a few days.

Following a send-off Mass at the Cathedral in Honolulu, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii on a flight that will land at Eisenhower airport in Wichita on Saturday, September 25, 2021. 

A procession will depart from the airport and Father Kapaun will arrive home at St. John Nepomucene in Pilsen on September 26 for a private homecoming and observance.&nbsp;

From Pilsen, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported back to Wichita, to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. A public Vigil service for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun will be held at Hartman Arena on September 28th&nbsp;at 7:00 p.m. On Wednesday, September 29th&nbsp;a Mass will be held at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Following the Mass of Christian Burial at Hartman Arena, Father Kapaun's remains will process from Veterans Memorial Park (339 Veterans Memorial Pkwy) by way of horse-drawn caisson from&nbsp;1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception where he will finally be laid to rest.

WICHITA — 
The Kapaun Family and the Diocese of Wichita are planning the transport of Father Emil Kapaun’s remains to Wichita in just a few days.Following a send-off Mass at the Cathedral in Honolulu, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii on a flight that will land at Eisenhower airport in Wichita on Saturday, September 25, 2021. A procession will depart from the airport and Father Kapaun will arrive home at St. John Nepomucene in Pilsen on September 26 for a private homecoming and observance.&nbsp;From Pilsen, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported back to Wichita, to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. A public Vigil service for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun will be held at Hartman Arena on September 28th&nbsp;at 7:00 p.m. On Wednesday, September 29th&nbsp;a Mass will be held at Hartman Arena at 10:30 a.m. Following the Mass of Christian Burial at Hartman Arena, Father Kapaun's remains will process from Veterans Memorial Park (339 Veterans Memorial Pkwy) by way of horse-drawn caisson from&nbsp;1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception where he will finally be laid to rest.

Remains of Fr. Emil Kapaun to return to Kansas later this month


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Sheriff's Office is joining a North American railroad safety effort aimed at reducing preventable deaths and injuries near tracks and trains.

On September 21, Sheriff's Deputies will be joining forces with law enforcement agencies in the U.S. for “Operation Clear Track", the single largest rail safety initiative in the U.S. The goal of Operation Clear Track and Rail Safety Week is to raise awareness of the importance of making safe choices near railroad tracks and trains. 

Coordinated by Amtrak Police and Operation Lifesaver Inc (OLI), Operation Clear Track aims to reduce the approximately 2,000 serious injuries and deaths each year in the U.S. around railroad tracks and trains. The event is held during the annual observance of Rail Safety Week, which this year is September 20-26 in North America.

“Operation Clear Track is an important annual initiative to help save lives and keep our communities safe,” said Amtrak Chief of Police D. Samuel Dotson. In the U.S., every 3 hours a vehicle or person is struck by a train,” said Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Executive Director Rachel Maleh. “Together we can help stop track tragedies.”

During “Operation Clear Track,” law enforcement representatives report to high-incident railroad grade crossings in Reno County. Once onsite, law enforcement officials share safety tips and enforce crossing and trespassing laws as well as write citations and warnings to violators.

For more information about Rail Safety Week, Operation Clear Track, and other rail-safety initiatives and tips, please visit <a href="http://www.oli.org/?fbclid=IwAR2IpgSgyHHWLMDmGkNAeo7zK288QaZKEWOrkGr9NPWzjRi2HrNG7YoKT4E" target="_blank">www.oli.org.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Sheriff's Office is joining a North American railroad safety effort aimed at reducing preventable deaths and injuries near tracks and trains.On September 21, Sheriff's Deputies will be joining forces with law enforcement agencies in the U.S. for “Operation Clear Track", the single largest rail safety initiative in the U.S. The goal of Operation Clear Track and Rail Safety Week is to raise awareness of the importance of making safe choices near railroad tracks and trains. Coordinated by Amtrak Police and Operation Lifesaver Inc (OLI), Operation Clear Track aims to reduce the approximately 2,000 serious injuries and deaths each year in the U.S. around railroad tracks and trains. The event is held during the annual observance of Rail Safety Week, which this year is September 20-26 in North America.“Operation Clear Track is an important annual initiative to help save lives and keep our communities safe,” said Amtrak Chief of Police D. Samuel Dotson. In the U.S., every 3 hours a vehicle or person is struck by a train,” said Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Executive Director Rachel Maleh. “Together we can help stop track tragedies.”During “Operation Clear Track,” law enforcement representatives report to high-incident railroad grade crossings in Reno County. Once onsite, law enforcement officials share safety tips and enforce crossing and trespassing laws as well as write citations and warnings to violators.For more information about Rail Safety Week, Operation Clear Track, and other rail-safety initiatives and tips, please visit <a href="http://www.oli.org/?fbclid=IwAR2IpgSgyHHWLMDmGkNAeo7zK288QaZKEWOrkGr9NPWzjRi2HrNG7YoKT4E" target="_blank">www.oli.org.</a>

Local