By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A group looking at Kansas graduation requirements is still relatively early in the process.

"Their goal is to have recommendations developed by the end of next spring, basically to take proposals to the State Board of Education next summer," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards.

The group will have to weigh several things when shaping requirement recommendations.

"What should every student who graduates have and know?", Tallman asked. "What's kind of the minimum that we want every student to have, balanced with how much flexibility or how much variation should be allowed based on different students interests? I think the dilemma is, both of those are important."

It's also hard because if you tailor graduation requirements to specific non college preparatory credentials, then if the student decides they want to go on to college, it may be difficult for them to do so, or conversely, if they thought they were interested in college, then they might have to take additional time to get a skills-based credential that they could have had straight out of high school if they had made different earlier choices.

"How can we make education seem more relevant?" Tallman asked. "How can we make it seem more personalized? How do we ensure that students have the skills that employers and parents and others are saying they want, that in many cases aren't related to academics?"

Agreement about what goals are, how they are measured and who is accountable will be the policy questions that the group hopes to answer as they make their recommendations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A group looking at Kansas graduation requirements is still relatively early in the process."Their goal is to have recommendations developed by the end of next spring, basically to take proposals to the State Board of Education next summer," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards.The group will have to weigh several things when shaping requirement recommendations."What should every student who graduates have and know?", Tallman asked. "What's kind of the minimum that we want every student to have, balanced with how much flexibility or how much variation should be allowed based on different students interests? I think the dilemma is, both of those are important."It's also hard because if you tailor graduation requirements to specific non college preparatory credentials, then if the student decides they want to go on to college, it may be difficult for them to do so, or conversely, if they thought they were interested in college, then they might have to take additional time to get a skills-based credential that they could have had straight out of high school if they had made different earlier choices."How can we make education seem more relevant?" Tallman asked. "How can we make it seem more personalized? How do we ensure that students have the skills that employers and parents and others are saying they want, that in many cases aren't related to academics?"Agreement about what goals are, how they are measured and who is accountable will be the policy questions that the group hopes to answer as they make their recommendations.

Tallman: Graduation requirement group early in its work

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The Hutchinson City Council will have a busy agenda Tuesday. The council will consider an application for CDBG funds to help restore the Hoke Building located at 25 E. 1st Avenue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The new owners, Mark and Phoebe Davenport, are proposing to rehabilitate the building for creating a boutique hotel with offices and a retail area on the ground level. The couple plans to use the grant to assist with the structural repairs of the building. This includes replacing the roof, work on the exterior brickwork, replacing windows and doors and installation of a fire suppression system. The estimated project cost is around $397,000. The grant request is for $245,000.

The grant is being prepared by the South Central Kansas Economic Development District (SCKEDD) and matching funds will pay for the administration costs. No city matching funds will be used.

Also Tuesday, the council will take action on special event designations. One is for the annual Rod Run October 1st and 2nd and the other is for the Lip Sync 9 event scheduled for July 30.&nbsp;

The council will also decide on a new exterior for the water tower located on the far northwest edge of the city and consider a resolution to exceed the revenue neutral rate for next year's budget.

Tuesday’s meeting of the Hutchinson City Council begins at 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.

<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/2021/7/1626461053861.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.— The Hutchinson City Council will have a busy agenda Tuesday. The council will consider an application for CDBG funds to help restore the Hoke Building located at 25 E. 1st Avenue.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new owners, Mark and Phoebe Davenport, are proposing to rehabilitate the building for creating a boutique hotel with offices and a retail area on the ground level. The couple plans to use the grant to assist with the structural repairs of the building. This includes replacing the roof, work on the exterior brickwork, replacing windows and doors and installation of a fire suppression system. The estimated project cost is around $397,000. The grant request is for $245,000.The grant is being prepared by the South Central Kansas Economic Development District (SCKEDD) and matching funds will pay for the administration costs. No city matching funds will be used.Also Tuesday, the council will take action on special event designations. One is for the annual Rod Run October 1st and 2nd and the other is for the Lip Sync 9 event scheduled for July 30.&nbsp;The council will also decide on a new exterior for the water tower located on the far northwest edge of the city and consider a resolution to exceed the revenue neutral rate for next year's budget.Tuesday’s meeting of the Hutchinson City Council begins at 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.<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;

Hutchinson City Council to discuss major building renovation project

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council will have a light agenda when they meet on Monday. The Council will get an update on the city sales tax revenue. The city took in just over $6,600 in June which is down slightly from the previous month.

The Council’s lone action item will be to make improvements to the disc golf course around the park. John Rohling will be on hand to discuss the improvements.

The council will also hear the various reports and take public comment. Monday's meeting of the Nickerson City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the Nickerson city offices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597851283659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostNICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council will have a light agenda when they meet on Monday. The Council will get an update on the city sales tax revenue. The city took in just over $6,600 in June which is down slightly from the previous month.The Council’s lone action item will be to make improvements to the disc golf course around the park. John Rohling will be on hand to discuss the improvements.The council will also hear the various reports and take public comment. Monday's meeting of the Nickerson City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the Nickerson city offices.<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 with light agenda


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Bob Gilbert with the Prairie Independent Living Resource Center is looking for more older people that he can help get new jobs through the Older Kansans Employment Program.

"OKEP is funded by a state grant," Gilbert said. "It's a free service that we offer in Reno, Rice, Kingman, Harper and Pratt counties. It's only been in Hutchinson since 2018. The only eligibility requirements are you have to be 55 or better and a resident of Kansas."

It's awfully hard to get a job these days without at least some computer skills.

"One of the services that we help with is the application process," Gilbert said. "In a digital environment, we can help them apply. Also, once you submit an application, many times the employer wants you to fill out an assessment. Of course, that's online, too. We just did one yesterday and the person I was helping, it took about 20 minutes to get through the entire assessment and she was very frustrated. I was glad to be able to help her work through that."

Gilbert notes several strengths older workers bring to the table.

"An older worker brings dedication to a job," Gilbert said. "They've got a lot of experience. They are honest. They are punctual, detail oriented and they are good listeners."

If you'd like more information, you can email <a href="http://bgilbert@pilr.org">bgilbert@pilr.org</a>, or call him at (620) 259-5802.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626528483086.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Bob Gilbert with the Prairie Independent Living Resource Center is looking for more older people that he can help get new jobs through the Older Kansans Employment Program."OKEP is funded by a state grant," Gilbert said. "It's a free service that we offer in Reno, Rice, Kingman, Harper and Pratt counties. It's only been in Hutchinson since 2018. The only eligibility requirements are you have to be 55 or better and a resident of Kansas."It's awfully hard to get a job these days without at least some computer skills."One of the services that we help with is the application process," Gilbert said. "In a digital environment, we can help them apply. Also, once you submit an application, many times the employer wants you to fill out an assessment. Of course, that's online, too. We just did one yesterday and the person I was helping, it took about 20 minutes to get through the entire assessment and she was very frustrated. I was glad to be able to help her work through that."Gilbert notes several strengths older workers bring to the table."An older worker brings dedication to a job," Gilbert said. "They've got a lot of experience. They are honest. They are punctual, detail oriented and they are good listeners."If you'd like more information, you can email <a href="http://bgilbert@pilr.org">bgilbert@pilr.org</a>, or call him at (620) 259-5802.

Older workers can get help at Prairie Independent Living Resource Center


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss notes that there is some good news for the rural economy in what has happened recently with prices overall.

"A little bit of inflation is not bad for agriculture," Goss said. "We're seeing that, again, having some real positive impacts. We asked the bank CEOs about, for example, farmland prices. Growth over the last 12 months is 5.8%. They expect the next 12 months at 2.4%. Their outlook is for at least slower growth in the few months ahead for the agricultural sector."

Between the extended unemployment benefits and the advance on child tax credits that some have received starting this week, Goss sees that as a negative for employment and potentially for the economy as a whole.

"We're now incentivizing non work," Goss said. "Right now, you've got the federal government spending this money, overspending. You've got the federal reserve with the pedal to the metal, record low interest rates. All that's going to combine to push up inflationary pressures and what Powell calls transitory becomes permanent."

Goss also isn't confident that the budget deal that Democrats are likely to push with or without Republican support will be a growth strategy for the economy at large.

"We're talking about the government, the federal government, spending 25% of GDP," Goss said. "That's a record level. The economy just cannot support that level of spending, long term. That's going to be resulting in three outcomes, one of three outcomes, or all three. Excessive inflation, higher interest rates and or higher taxes. The government has got to pull back. You cannot continue to spend at this level and not see some real negative outcomes."

Despite recent solid job gains, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicate that the Rural Mainstreet nonfarm employment remains 1.3% below its pre-COVID-19 level across the Midwest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622642233344.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss notes that there is some good news for the rural economy in what has happened recently with prices overall."A little bit of inflation is not bad for agriculture," Goss said. "We're seeing that, again, having some real positive impacts. We asked the bank CEOs about, for example, farmland prices. Growth over the last 12 months is 5.8%. They expect the next 12 months at 2.4%. Their outlook is for at least slower growth in the few months ahead for the agricultural sector."Between the extended unemployment benefits and the advance on child tax credits that some have received starting this week, Goss sees that as a negative for employment and potentially for the economy as a whole."We're now incentivizing non work," Goss said. "Right now, you've got the federal government spending this money, overspending. You've got the federal reserve with the pedal to the metal, record low interest rates. All that's going to combine to push up inflationary pressures and what Powell calls transitory becomes permanent."Goss also isn't confident that the budget deal that Democrats are likely to push with or without Republican support will be a growth strategy for the economy at large."We're talking about the government, the federal government, spending 25% of GDP," Goss said. "That's a record level. The economy just cannot support that level of spending, long term. That's going to be resulting in three outcomes, one of three outcomes, or all three. Excessive inflation, higher interest rates and or higher taxes. The government has got to pull back. You cannot continue to spend at this level and not see some real negative outcomes."Despite recent solid job gains, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicate that the Rural Mainstreet nonfarm employment remains 1.3% below its pre-COVID-19 level across the Midwest.

Economist: Inflation good for ag right now, bad overall if it continues

HARVEY COUNTY—Two people died in an accident just before 2p.m. Saturday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Lincoln MKZ driven by Denice K. Bina, 65, Marion was southbound on Interstate 135 two miles south of Newton.

The car left the roadway, traveled into the median and came back onto the roadway. The driver overcorrected and the car traveled across the median and into the northbound lanes.&nbsp; A 2019 Freightliner semi driven by Evan Matthew Newman, 25, Udall struck the Lincoln.

Bina and a passenger Raymond C. Bina, 71, Marion, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to the&nbsp; Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center.

Newman was not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626576396845.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal Saturday crash -photo courtesy KAKE" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal Saturday crash -photo courtesy KAKE</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—Two people died in an accident just before 2p.m. Saturday in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Lincoln MKZ driven by Denice K. Bina, 65, Marion was southbound on Interstate 135 two miles south of Newton.The car left the roadway, traveled into the median and came back onto the roadway. The driver overcorrected and the car traveled across the median and into the northbound lanes.&nbsp; A 2019 Freightliner semi driven by Evan Matthew Newman, 25, Udall struck the Lincoln.Bina and a passenger Raymond C. Bina, 71, Marion, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to the&nbsp; Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center.Newman was not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas couple killed after wrong-way I-135 crash

SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Three small earthquakes happened in Reno County Friday evening and early Saturday morning.

According to the Kansas Geological Survey, there was a 2.6 magnitude quake at 9:43 p.m., a 2.5 at 10:06 p.m. and a 2.7 at 3:12 a.m. Saturday.

All three were centered near the 50/61 and K-14 junction near South Hutchinson. 

There have been no reports of damage and generally there are none for quakes below 3.0.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616156700846.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Three small earthquakes happened in Reno County Friday evening and early Saturday morning.According to the Kansas Geological Survey, there was a 2.6 magnitude quake at 9:43 p.m., a 2.5 at 10:06 p.m. and a 2.7 at 3:12 a.m. Saturday.All three were centered near the 50/61 and K-14 junction near South Hutchinson. There have been no reports of damage and generally there are none for quakes below 3.0.

Three small quakes shake South Hutch


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
On April 24th, 2021, beaver parents Nora and Clover and aunt Nugget welcomed two kits to the family. Unlike most animals it is not easy to identify the gender of a beaver.

With the help of the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory and Apple Lane Animal Hospital in Hutchinson, the zoo hosted a gender reveal party on Friday.

 The kits are both boys. The beaver kits pulled on a ‘monkey biscuit’ (their favorite food) and afterward, munched on a cake made from biscuits and bananas.

The new additions are growing quickly. At birth they weighed about 400 grams. They are now about 12 pounds and eating solid foods. As herbivores they eat a lot of leaves, tree bark, and vegetables, but their favorite foods are sweet potatoes, carrots, and leaf-eater biscuits. They are coming out to explore their habitat more often now and can sometimes be seen swimming in the late afternoon.

If you have not been to one of the Family Zoo Nights yet, you have one more chance on August 13th. This evening event will be the perfect opportunity to catch the young beavers out and about. 

For more details, please visit the Zoo on social media or at <a href="http://hutchinsonzoo.org">hutchinsonzoo.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626520403316.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
On April 24th, 2021, beaver parents Nora and Clover and aunt Nugget welcomed two kits to the family. Unlike most animals it is not easy to identify the gender of a beaver.With the help of the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory and Apple Lane Animal Hospital in Hutchinson, the zoo hosted a gender reveal party on Friday. The kits are both boys. The beaver kits pulled on a ‘monkey biscuit’ (their favorite food) and afterward, munched on a cake made from biscuits and bananas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626520431891.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The new additions are growing quickly. At birth they weighed about 400 grams. They are now about 12 pounds and eating solid foods. As herbivores they eat a lot of leaves, tree bark, and vegetables, but their favorite foods are sweet potatoes, carrots, and leaf-eater biscuits. They are coming out to explore their habitat more often now and can sometimes be seen swimming in the late afternoon.If you have not been to one of the Family Zoo Nights yet, you have one more chance on August 13th. This evening event will be the perfect opportunity to catch the young beavers out and about. For more details, please visit the Zoo on social media or at <a href="http://hutchinsonzoo.org">hutchinsonzoo.org</a>.

Twin Boys! Hutchinson Zoo hosts Gender Reveal Party for Beaver Kits

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven City Council will discuss two special use permits for a parcel of land on the north edge of the coyote when they meet on Monday. The vacant lot is at 22 Stadium. No word on what type of development could go in there.

Also Monday, the council will consider bids for tree trimming and salt purchases for the water treatment plant.&nbsp;

The council will hear department and council updates and pay the bills for the month. Monday's meeting of the Haven City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the city office at 215 S. Reno.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090767638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHAVEN, Kan. — The Haven City Council will discuss two special use permits for a parcel of land on the north edge of the coyote when they meet on Monday. The vacant lot is at 22 Stadium. No word on what type of development could go in there.Also Monday, the council will consider bids for tree trimming and salt purchases for the water treatment plant.&nbsp;The council will hear department and council updates and pay the bills for the month. Monday's meeting of the Haven City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the city office at 215 S. Reno.<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;

Haven City Council meets Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man sentenced to at least 48 years in prison on a first degree murder conviction saw two motions denied in a Reno County courtroom Friday.

Charles Christopher Logsdon has filed a civil motion citing ineffective counsel. On Friday he was back in court to present two motions. The first was to have Judge Trish Rose recuse herself from the case. That motion was denied. The second was to have the entire District Attorney's office removed from the case. Logsdon’s defense attorney stated that the case would be an emotionally charged one if it made it back to trial again. That motion was also denied.

&nbsp;Logsdon was convicted of intentional first-degree murder in the shooting death of Jennifer Heckel in 2011 in her home. The shooting was a case of mistaken identity. A co-defendant in the case, Billy Craig Jr. is serving a 15 year sentence after entering a plea to conspiracy to commit first degree murder.

In his civil case, Logsdon claims that the defense failed to call 15 witnesses that could prove his innocence. The list includes cell mates, people he claims were with him the night of the murder, and a neighbor of Heckel who says she saw a white male in the victims back yard a week before the murder.&nbsp;

Former District Attorney Keith Schroeder, who is now a district court judge, has already filed a brief on the claims made by Logsdon.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626471568901.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man sentenced to at least 48 years in prison on a first degree murder conviction saw two motions denied in a Reno County courtroom Friday.Charles Christopher Logsdon has filed a civil motion citing ineffective counsel. On Friday he was back in court to present two motions. The first was to have Judge Trish Rose recuse herself from the case. That motion was denied. The second was to have the entire District Attorney's office removed from the case. Logsdon’s defense attorney stated that the case would be an emotionally charged one if it made it back to trial again. That motion was also denied.&nbsp;Logsdon was convicted of intentional first-degree murder in the shooting death of Jennifer Heckel in 2011 in her home. The shooting was a case of mistaken identity. A co-defendant in the case, Billy Craig Jr. is serving a 15 year sentence after entering a plea to conspiracy to commit first degree murder.In his civil case, Logsdon claims that the defense failed to call 15 witnesses that could prove his innocence. The list includes cell mates, people he claims were with him the night of the murder, and a neighbor of Heckel who says she saw a white male in the victims back yard a week before the murder.&nbsp;Former District Attorney Keith Schroeder, who is now a district court judge, has already filed a brief on the claims made by Logsdon.&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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Motions denied in Logsdon civil case

RICE COUNTY—The Northern Natural gas leak has been contained and emergency responders returned to their quarters Friday, afternoon, according to Rice County Emergency Communications. Those displaced due to the incident are now allowed to return to the area

RICE COUNTY —Officials with Northern Natural gas are investigating a gas leak in Rice County.

Just after 3 p.m.&nbsp;Thursday, crews were doing&nbsp; work at an underground storage facility southeast of Lyons when something happened with a valve that caused a release of natural gas, according to&nbsp;Mike Loeffler with Northern Natural Gas.

The company evacuated everyone within a one-mile radius of the area and closed all access to roads.&nbsp; Testing determined no natural gas at the one-mile perimeter or at the city limits of Lyons, according to Loeffler.

Northern Natural hopes to begin repairs Friday morning.&nbsp; The public is not in danger, according to Loeffler.

The incident forced Midwest Energy to cut power to roughly 60 homes and buildings east of Lyons, according to a social media report from the utility.&nbsp; On Friday morning, authorities asked Midwest Energy to be prepared to cut power to another 500 meters in Rice County east of Lyons.  If required, this outage would come with no notice.&nbsp; The utility thanked residents for their understanding as they help authorities work through this situation.

RICE COUNTY—The Northern Natural gas leak has been contained and emergency responders returned to their quarters Friday, afternoon, according to Rice County Emergency Communications. Those displaced due to the incident are now allowed to return to the area----------RICE COUNTY —Officials with Northern Natural gas are investigating a gas leak in Rice County.Just after 3 p.m.&nbsp;Thursday, crews were doing&nbsp; work at an underground storage facility southeast of Lyons when something happened with a valve that caused a release of natural gas, according to&nbsp;Mike Loeffler with Northern Natural Gas.The company evacuated everyone within a one-mile radius of the area and closed all access to roads.&nbsp; Testing determined no natural gas at the one-mile perimeter or at the city limits of Lyons, according to Loeffler.Northern Natural hopes to begin repairs Friday morning.&nbsp; The public is not in danger, according to Loeffler.The incident forced Midwest Energy to cut power to roughly 60 homes and buildings east of Lyons, according to a social media report from the utility.&nbsp; On Friday morning, authorities asked Midwest Energy to be prepared to cut power to another 500 meters in Rice County east of Lyons. If required, this outage would come with no notice.&nbsp; The utility thanked residents for their understanding as they help authorities work through this situation.

Update: Rice County natural gas leak contained

STAFFORD COUNTY—A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Friday in Stafford County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford F350 driven by Eric Waters, 61, Macksville,&nbsp;was southbound on Southwest 70th Avenue&nbsp; seven miles south of the U.S.50/U.S. 281 Junction.

The driver failed to yield at a stop sign and drove into the path of an eastbound 2013 Chevy Impala driven by Jana Lynne Lamb, 56, Macksville.&nbsp;

EMS transported&nbsp;Lamb to the hospital in Pratt. Waters was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

STAFFORD COUNTY—A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Friday in Stafford County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford F350 driven by Eric Waters, 61, Macksville,&nbsp;was southbound on Southwest 70th Avenue&nbsp; seven miles south of the U.S.50/U.S. 281 Junction.The driver failed to yield at a stop sign and drove into the path of an eastbound 2013 Chevy Impala driven by Jana Lynne Lamb, 56, Macksville.&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Lamb to the hospital in Pratt. Waters was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A fire in a home near the Hutchinson Sports Arena Friday morning was quickly contained.

Fire crews were called just after 7:45 a.m. to 929 East 12th. Smoke was showing when they got there, but they were able to find the fire in the front room and knock it down quickly. No one was home. The failure of an extension cord caused the blaze. 

Fire Inspector Mike Cain states, "Extension cords are designed for temporary use and be sure to use the appropriate size cord for the application. Small “zip” cords that are relatively inexpensive are not designed for large loads.”

The residence suffered heat and smoke damage throughout, with fire damage contained to the front room. No estimate has been made on damage to the home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Fire Logo" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Fire Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A fire in a home near the Hutchinson Sports Arena Friday morning was quickly contained.Fire crews were called just after 7:45 a.m. to 929 East 12th. Smoke was showing when they got there, but they were able to find the fire in the front room and knock it down quickly. No one was home. The failure of an extension cord caused the blaze. Fire Inspector Mike Cain states, "Extension cords are designed for temporary use and be sure to use the appropriate size cord for the application. Small “zip” cords that are relatively inexpensive are not designed for large loads.”The residence suffered heat and smoke damage throughout, with fire damage contained to the front room. No estimate has been made on damage to the home.

Small fire contained to single room Friday morning

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland announced Friday that the Kansas Main Street program is bringing the nationally acclaimed&nbsp;Upstairs Downtown&nbsp;workshop to Hutchinson in August.

The two-day workshop, taking place August 16-17 in downtown Hutchinson, will provide information on redeveloping upper-floor spaces in small downtown buildings. This workshop is aimed to specifically reach small building owners and local community leaders looking to improve their downtown commercial business districts.

“The Kansas Main Street program exists to create new possibilities for commerce and quality of life in downtown districts, and&nbsp;Upstairs Downtown&nbsp;fits that mission exactly,”&nbsp;Lt. Governor/Secretary Toland said.&nbsp;“Second-floor development opens the door to so many possibilities, including new housing opportunities created by recent expansion of the Rural Housing Incentive District program. If you have an upstairs to renovate in a downtown building definitely take advantage of this meeting to learn more.”

This workshop, presented by Dan Carmody of Carmody Consulting and architect Mike Jackson, FAIA, is designed to demystify the process of reusing the upper-floor spaces of typical Main Street buildings. Carmody and Jackson will share knowledge and experience in the design changes needed to accommodate various uses, the building codes that need to be applied, the financial means necessary to make a profit, and what communities can do to make it easier to pursue these projects.

The workshop will feature panel discussions about the recently approved Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) legislation, and address code and fire mitigation issues in downtown projects. The panel will include building owners who have successfully completed upper-floor developments in Kansas.

“Housing is an important issue across Kansas, and we believe downtowns are positioned to play a role in helping to solve housing problems in Kansas communities,”&nbsp;Scott Sewell, director of the Kansas Main Street program, said.&nbsp;“Typically, our training is open only to Designated communities and Affiliate members, but the housing issue is so important that we wanted to present this opportunity to anyone who wants to learn about how to develop upper-floor space.”

Seating is limited and advance registration is required. The registration fee is $50 and will close when seating is filled.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MTYuNDMzMDQyMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2thbnNhc2RlcGFydG1lbnRvZmNvbW1lcmNlLmZvcm1zdGFjay5jb20vZm9ybXMvdXBzdGFpcnNfZG93bnRvd24ifQ.CFQr8KkqWkl_aMaVZdhMB3fZmO0kjF4z3_ynzxTfpLY/s/1303183584/br/109439320270-l" target="_blank">Click here to register for the workshop.</a>

For more information, please contact Kansas Main Street at (785) 296-7288 or email&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:scott.sewell@ks.gov" target="_blank">scott.sewell@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577789937052.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland announced Friday that the Kansas Main Street program is bringing the nationally acclaimed&nbsp;Upstairs Downtown&nbsp;workshop to Hutchinson in August.The two-day workshop, taking place August 16-17 in downtown Hutchinson, will provide information on redeveloping upper-floor spaces in small downtown buildings. This workshop is aimed to specifically reach small building owners and local community leaders looking to improve their downtown commercial business districts.“The Kansas Main Street program exists to create new possibilities for commerce and quality of life in downtown districts, and&nbsp;Upstairs Downtown&nbsp;fits that mission exactly,”&nbsp;Lt. Governor/Secretary Toland said.&nbsp;“Second-floor development opens the door to so many possibilities, including new housing opportunities created by recent expansion of the Rural Housing Incentive District program. If you have an upstairs to renovate in a downtown building definitely take advantage of this meeting to learn more.”This workshop, presented by Dan Carmody of Carmody Consulting and architect Mike Jackson, FAIA, is designed to demystify the process of reusing the upper-floor spaces of typical Main Street buildings. Carmody and Jackson will share knowledge and experience in the design changes needed to accommodate various uses, the building codes that need to be applied, the financial means necessary to make a profit, and what communities can do to make it easier to pursue these projects.The workshop will feature panel discussions about the recently approved Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) legislation, and address code and fire mitigation issues in downtown projects. The panel will include building owners who have successfully completed upper-floor developments in Kansas.“Housing is an important issue across Kansas, and we believe downtowns are positioned to play a role in helping to solve housing problems in Kansas communities,”&nbsp;Scott Sewell, director of the Kansas Main Street program, said.&nbsp;“Typically, our training is open only to Designated communities and Affiliate members, but the housing issue is so important that we wanted to present this opportunity to anyone who wants to learn about how to develop upper-floor space.”Seating is limited and advance registration is required. The registration fee is $50 and will close when seating is filled.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MTYuNDMzMDQyMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2thbnNhc2RlcGFydG1lbnRvZmNvbW1lcmNlLmZvcm1zdGFjay5jb20vZm9ybXMvdXBzdGFpcnNfZG93bnRvd24ifQ.CFQr8KkqWkl_aMaVZdhMB3fZmO0kjF4z3_ynzxTfpLY/s/1303183584/br/109439320270-l" target="_blank">Click here to register for the workshop.</a>For more information, please contact Kansas Main Street at (785) 296-7288 or email&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:scott.sewell@ks.gov" target="_blank">scott.sewell@ks.gov</a>.

Upstairs Downtown workshop coming to Hutchinson in August

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the most difficult things for a small business is when the owner is ready to turn the keys over to someone else. The city has seen several mom and pop stores close over the years. Jackson Swearer with StartUp Hutch says succession of businesses in Hutchinson has been a challenge.

“There have been several examples of businesses where maybe the generation that started it or maybe they got it from their parents, their kids are not wanting to take over that business, “ Swearer said. “We need to find somebody new to come in and do that.”&nbsp;

Swearer, whose company helps finance and give direction to new business owners, says it can be difficult to find the right fit for taking over a small business.

“I think it can be a challenge for us because finding the right person to do that whether its an employee that has what it takes to step up and be the owner, or somebody else with relevant experience or the motivation to buy the business, it can be challenging to find the right person,” Swearer said. “But the flip side of that is that businesses themselves aren’t always really set up to be easy to be sold.”

That problem can occur if a business owner doesn’t plan ahead for either selling it or passing it down to another generation. Swearer says that catches many small business owners off guard.

“People often get into a situation where they're running a business where they just kind of run it as business as usual, and then they get a year out from when they want to sell it and then that’s when they start thinking about it, '' Swearer said. “ Even a year out is a little too late...you really need to start thinking about that kind of thing three or four years before you’re going to sell it to make sure you get the books for the business, taxes and all of that set up in a way that makes it easier to sell.”

It is never easy to let your hard life's work go to someone else when your business is sold or passed down. Swearer says finding the right fit in succession of your business is always important.

“I think people have a justified sense of ownership and pride over the business that they’ve built,” Swearer said. “They want to make sure that if they are going to sell it to somebody and it's going to stay at that business they want it to be successful and to keep the good name of the business that they’ve built.”

To help kickstart Reno County succession planning conversations, StartUp Hutch is hosting a workshop on August 12th from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. This free event is for business owners who want to learn more about what to expect and how to start their own plan, and features experienced panelists such as Erica Blair, Richard Feltenberg, Brett Henry, Dave Inskeep Jr, Travis Mullens, Eric Steinle, and Dell Swearer.

For more information or to register for the succession planning event, visit <a href="http://www.startuphutch.com/">www.startuphutch.com</a> or contact Jackson Swearer at 620-665-3319.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626449502082.jpeg" alt="The downtown area of Hutchinson is filled with small locally owned businesses. Over the past several years some notable shops have closed down because they could not be passed onto family or someone wanting to take over the store.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The downtown area of Hutchinson is filled with small locally owned businesses. Over the past several years some notable shops have closed down because they could not be passed onto family or someone wanting to take over the store.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the most difficult things for a small business is when the owner is ready to turn the keys over to someone else. The city has seen several mom and pop stores close over the years. Jackson Swearer with StartUp Hutch says succession of businesses in Hutchinson has been a challenge.“There have been several examples of businesses where maybe the generation that started it or maybe they got it from their parents, their kids are not wanting to take over that business, “ Swearer said. “We need to find somebody new to come in and do that.”&nbsp;Swearer, whose company helps finance and give direction to new business owners, says it can be difficult to find the right fit for taking over a small business.“I think it can be a challenge for us because finding the right person to do that whether its an employee that has what it takes to step up and be the owner, or somebody else with relevant experience or the motivation to buy the business, it can be challenging to find the right person,” Swearer said. “But the flip side of that is that businesses themselves aren’t always really set up to be easy to be sold.”That problem can occur if a business owner doesn’t plan ahead for either selling it or passing it down to another generation. Swearer says that catches many small business owners off guard.“People often get into a situation where they're running a business where they just kind of run it as business as usual, and then they get a year out from when they want to sell it and then that’s when they start thinking about it, '' Swearer said. “ Even a year out is a little too late...you really need to start thinking about that kind of thing three or four years before you’re going to sell it to make sure you get the books for the business, taxes and all of that set up in a way that makes it easier to sell.”It is never easy to let your hard life's work go to someone else when your business is sold or passed down. Swearer says finding the right fit in succession of your business is always important.“I think people have a justified sense of ownership and pride over the business that they’ve built,” Swearer said. “They want to make sure that if they are going to sell it to somebody and it's going to stay at that business they want it to be successful and to keep the good name of the business that they’ve built.”To help kickstart Reno County succession planning conversations, StartUp Hutch is hosting a workshop on August 12th from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. This free event is for business owners who want to learn more about what to expect and how to start their own plan, and features experienced panelists such as Erica Blair, Richard Feltenberg, Brett Henry, Dave Inskeep Jr, Travis Mullens, Eric Steinle, and Dell Swearer.For more information or to register for the succession planning event, visit <a href="http://www.startuphutch.com/">www.startuphutch.com</a> or contact Jackson Swearer at 620-665-3319.<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;

Succession of your business takes advanced planning


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The remodeled Behavioral Health Unit at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center opened July 1.

"Our inpatient unit at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center offers more acute care for patients who may pose a threat to themselves or others and need 24-hour supervision and assistance with medication management and therapies," said Dr. Veronica Amey-Perrin, Medical Director for Horizons Mental Health Center. "That's to help them do more of an acute intervention before they can be safe to follow up with outpatient care."

Horizons and Hutchinson Regional staff collaborate heavily on inpatient care.

"The hospital employees include, master's level therapists, activity personnel, nurses and CNAs," said Liz Mansur, APRN, Director of the Behavioral Health Unit at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. "Horizons personnel are myself, the director and then the psychiatrists as well as all of their mid-levels, the APPs and they are there daily, as well."

Mansur noted that making sure those who need it get treatment is the reason the unit exists.

"For me personally, the biggest win is when a mental health patient realizes that mental health is exactly what it says it is," Mansur said. "It is a health concern. It does not make them odd or different. It is a health concern that needs to be addressed."

The remodel was done after feedback from the Joint Commission, an international accreditation organization that certifies best practices for improving care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625152861684.jpeg" alt="Hutch Regional BHU 1" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Regional BHU 1</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The remodeled Behavioral Health Unit at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center opened July 1."Our inpatient unit at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center offers more acute care for patients who may pose a threat to themselves or others and need 24-hour supervision and assistance with medication management and therapies," said Dr. Veronica Amey-Perrin, Medical Director for Horizons Mental Health Center. "That's to help them do more of an acute intervention before they can be safe to follow up with outpatient care."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625152889780.jpeg" alt="Hutch Regional BHU 2" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Regional BHU 2</figcaption>
 </figure>Horizons and Hutchinson Regional staff collaborate heavily on inpatient care."The hospital employees include, master's level therapists, activity personnel, nurses and CNAs," said Liz Mansur, APRN, Director of the Behavioral Health Unit at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. "Horizons personnel are myself, the director and then the psychiatrists as well as all of their mid-levels, the APPs and they are there daily, as well."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625152913978.jpeg" alt="Hutch Regional BHU 3" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Regional BHU 3</figcaption>
 </figure>Mansur noted that making sure those who need it get treatment is the reason the unit exists."For me personally, the biggest win is when a mental health patient realizes that mental health is exactly what it says it is," Mansur said. "It is a health concern. It does not make them odd or different. It is a health concern that needs to be addressed."The remodel was done after feedback from the Joint Commission, an international accreditation organization that certifies best practices for improving care.

Remodel allows for dealing with mental health concerns at HRMC

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The jobless rate in Reno County jumped by more than one half percent in June.

According to figures released by the Kansas Department of Labor the unemployment rate in the county increased from 3.5% to 4.2%. The jobless rate for the month in 2020 was 5.8%. It’s the second straight month the number of unemployed in Reno County increased. The May jobless rate was 3.2%. There were 1,281 residents out of work compared with 1,039 in May.

The unemployment rate for the state of Kansas was 3.7%, up from 3.5% the month before.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560186434781.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The jobless rate in Reno County jumped by more than one half percent in June.According to figures released by the Kansas Department of Labor the unemployment rate in the county increased from 3.5% to 4.2%. The jobless rate for the month in 2020 was 5.8%. It’s the second straight month the number of unemployed in Reno County increased. The May jobless rate was 3.2%. There were 1,281 residents out of work compared with 1,039 in May.The unemployment rate for the state of Kansas was 3.7%, up from 3.5% the month before.<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;

Jobless rate increases for second straight month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —Four members of the Hutchinson Fire Department left with Brush 71 for Avery, Idaho to help with the Tumbledown Fire.&nbsp;

Firefighters Brent Fisher, Cole Ingrham, Jacob Ice and Kyle Graves were called into action this morning. The crew is expected to arrive on Saturday morning for their first assignment. The crew is being dispatched as part of an agreement with the state of Kansas and other parties to provide mutual aid during such fire emergencies.

The fire started last week and was thought to have been caused by lightning. As of Thursday afternoon the fire has burned around 12,000 acres.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626383611246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —Four members of the Hutchinson Fire Department left with Brush 71 for Avery, Idaho to help with the Tumbledown Fire.&nbsp;Firefighters Brent Fisher, Cole Ingrham, Jacob Ice and Kyle Graves were called into action this morning. The crew is expected to arrive on Saturday morning for their first assignment. The crew is being dispatched as part of an agreement with the state of Kansas and other parties to provide mutual aid during such fire emergencies.The fire started last week and was thought to have been caused by lightning. As of Thursday afternoon the fire has burned around 12,000 acres.<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.

HFD crew on the way to Idaho

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department announced Thursday that there is a surge in COVID cases in the county.

In the past week the number of positive cases increased from 11 to 31. The department says cases are also increasing rapidly in the eastern part of Kansas as well as in long-term care facilities, partially due to the highly contagious Delta variant. The Reno County Health Department is asking county residents to be proactive by getting the vaccine. As of Thursday less than half of Reno County residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

Dr. Robert Sourk, Pulmonologist with the Hutchinson Clinic, sees a clear connection between the lack of vaccination and hospitalization, and is encouraging his patients to get the vaccine immediately.

COVID-19 vaccinations are available to anyone over the age of 12. Vaccines are free to any resident, regardless of citizen status or insurance. Visit <a href="https://vaccinefinder.org/">https://vaccinefinder.org/</a> for a list of local options and availability. For a free ride to one of the vaccine sites, call RCAT at 620-694-2913.

The Health Department is accepting walk-ins for COVID-19 vaccinations during their normal operating hours. They will also be holding two Saturday vaccination clinics on July 24 and August 14 from 8 am to noon. For more information about the vaccine or upcoming clinics, call 620-694-2900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612955384439.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department announced Thursday that there is a surge in COVID cases in the county.In the past week the number of positive cases increased from 11 to 31. The department says cases are also increasing rapidly in the eastern part of Kansas as well as in long-term care facilities, partially due to the highly contagious Delta variant. The Reno County Health Department is asking county residents to be proactive by getting the vaccine. As of Thursday less than half of Reno County residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine.Dr. Robert Sourk, Pulmonologist with the Hutchinson Clinic, sees a clear connection between the lack of vaccination and hospitalization, and is encouraging his patients to get the vaccine immediately.COVID-19 vaccinations are available to anyone over the age of 12. Vaccines are free to any resident, regardless of citizen status or insurance. Visit <a href="https://vaccinefinder.org/">https://vaccinefinder.org/</a> for a list of local options and availability. For a free ride to one of the vaccine sites, call RCAT at 620-694-2913.The Health Department is accepting walk-ins for COVID-19 vaccinations during their normal operating hours. They will also be holding two Saturday vaccination clinics on July 24 and August 14 from 8 am to noon. For more information about the vaccine or upcoming clinics, call 620-694-2900.<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;

Covid cases double in Reno Co. in one week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere will benefit from funding from Community Service Tax Credits (CSP) to improve its reach to underserved school students. The program called LaunchNext will benefit 48 underserved school districts in the state of Kansas.

“We’re really excited to be awarded to support our LaunchNext initiative,” Cosmosphere President and CEO Jim Remar said. “This really started back when the pandemic hit in March of 2020 and we had to close our doors. We started to deliver virtual tours and digital opportunities and realized there’s a real need.”

The program will fit all areas of STEM curriculum and will be for all ages of students.

“It’s broken out into the various age groups or grade programs,” Remar said. “We’ve got 12 or 13 modules based on some of the education that we do here. And we're then taking those modules and we’re creating virtual or digital opportunities either through a digital file or a live stream here at the Cosmosphere.”

The museum can do demonstrations and present other items to reinforce what is being taught in the classroom according to Remar.

“More importantly it is the opportunity to bring Cosmosphere STEM education virtually and digitally into the classroom,”Remar said. “That’s really what the tax credits will support. It will allow us to put our LaunchNext program into 48 school districts across the state.”

This year, 26 of the requested 55 projects (constituting 47% of the total funds requested) received CSP funding totaling more than $4 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591121929614.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere will benefit from funding from Community Service Tax Credits (CSP) to improve its reach to underserved school students. The program called LaunchNext will benefit 48 underserved school districts in the state of Kansas.“We’re really excited to be awarded to support our LaunchNext initiative,” Cosmosphere President and CEO Jim Remar said. “This really started back when the pandemic hit in March of 2020 and we had to close our doors. We started to deliver virtual tours and digital opportunities and realized there’s a real need.”The program will fit all areas of STEM curriculum and will be for all ages of students.“It’s broken out into the various age groups or grade programs,” Remar said. “We’ve got 12 or 13 modules based on some of the education that we do here. And we're then taking those modules and we’re creating virtual or digital opportunities either through a digital file or a live stream here at the Cosmosphere.”The museum can do demonstrations and present other items to reinforce what is being taught in the classroom according to Remar.“More importantly it is the opportunity to bring Cosmosphere STEM education virtually and digitally into the classroom,”Remar said. “That’s really what the tax credits will support. It will allow us to put our LaunchNext program into 48 school districts across the state.”This year, 26 of the requested 55 projects (constituting 47% of the total funds requested) received CSP funding totaling more than $4 million.<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.

Cosmosphere to expand virtual classes 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Couples are always having a gender reveal when they are expecting an addition to the family. The Hutchinson Zoo thinks that's a great idea for their two new additions to the animal family.

On April 24th of this year, the Hutchinson Zoo welcomed two baby beavers to mom Nora and dad Clover.&nbsp; Unlike most animals it is not easy to identify the gender of a beaver. With the help of the UC Davis&nbsp; Veterinary Genetics Laboratory the zoo has the results.&nbsp;

Now you get to join in on the fun, as the zoo is hosting a gender reveal raffle and gender reveal party. To participate in the raffle please use the following link <a href="https://bit.ly/BabyBeaverGenderRaffle">https://bit.ly/BabyBeaverGenderRaffle</a> or visit the zoo gift shop before 3 p.m. Friday.&nbsp; The gender reveal will follow at 3 p.m. and one person or family with the correct guess will win a special meet and greet with the Zoo’s beaver family.&nbsp;

The correct winner will be announced after the official gender reveal party. Participants need not be present to win.&nbsp; You’ll want to come out and see the little ones because they will be leaving for another destination in the future. The zoo will contact the raffle winner to set up a separate experience.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626378324143.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Couples are always having a gender reveal when they are expecting an addition to the family. The Hutchinson Zoo thinks that's a great idea for their two new additions to the animal family.On April 24th of this year, the Hutchinson Zoo welcomed two baby beavers to mom Nora and dad Clover.&nbsp; Unlike most animals it is not easy to identify the gender of a beaver. With the help of the UC Davis&nbsp; Veterinary Genetics Laboratory the zoo has the results.&nbsp;Now you get to join in on the fun, as the zoo is hosting a gender reveal raffle and gender reveal party. To participate in the raffle please use the following link <a href="https://bit.ly/BabyBeaverGenderRaffle">https://bit.ly/BabyBeaverGenderRaffle</a> or visit the zoo gift shop before 3 p.m. Friday.&nbsp; The gender reveal will follow at 3 p.m. and one person or family with the correct guess will win a special meet and greet with the Zoo’s beaver family.&nbsp;The correct winner will be announced after the official gender reveal party. Participants need not be present to win.&nbsp; You’ll want to come out and see the little ones because they will be leaving for another destination in the future. The zoo will contact the raffle winner to set up a separate experience.&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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Zoo gender identity party and raffle is Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man sentenced to at least 48 years in prison on a first degree murder conviction will be back in a Reno County courtroom Friday. Charles Christopher Logsdon was successful in getting his case remanded back to court citing ineffective counsel. The case was remanded by the Supreme Court in July of 2020.&nbsp;

Logsdon’s defense attorney Sam Kepfield has filed a motion to have the entire district attorney’s office removed from the case. The motion was originally written to have former DA Keith Schroeder, current District Attorney Tom Stanton and former prosecuting attorney Steven Maxwell recused from the case. The motion was modified to include the entire office. The motion will be heard in front of Judge Trish Rose.

Logsdon was convicted of intentional first-degree in the shooting death of Jennifer Heckel in 2011 in her home. The shooting was a case of mistaken identity.&nbsp;

Logsdon has filed several other motions but the one addressed at the moment is the ineffective counsel. Logsdon claims that the defense failed to call 15 witnesses that could prove his innocence. The list includes cell mates, people he claims were with him the night of the murder, and a neighbor of Heckle who says she saw a white male in the victims back yard a week before the murder.&nbsp;

Schroeder, who is now a district court judge, has already filed a brief on the claims made by Logsdon.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626362527221.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Rod ZookHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man sentenced to at least 48 years in prison on a first degree murder conviction will be back in a Reno County courtroom Friday. Charles Christopher Logsdon was successful in getting his case remanded back to court citing ineffective counsel. The case was remanded by the Supreme Court in July of 2020.&nbsp;Logsdon’s defense attorney Sam Kepfield has filed a motion to have the entire district attorney’s office removed from the case. The motion was originally written to have former DA Keith Schroeder, current District Attorney Tom Stanton and former prosecuting attorney Steven Maxwell recused from the case. The motion was modified to include the entire office. The motion will be heard in front of Judge Trish Rose.Logsdon was convicted of intentional first-degree in the shooting death of Jennifer Heckel in 2011 in her home. The shooting was a case of mistaken identity.&nbsp;Logsdon has filed several other motions but the one addressed at the moment is the ineffective counsel. Logsdon claims that the defense failed to call 15 witnesses that could prove his innocence. The list includes cell mates, people he claims were with him the night of the murder, and a neighbor of Heckle who says she saw a white male in the victims back yard a week before the murder.&nbsp;Schroeder, who is now a district court judge, has already filed a brief on the claims made by Logsdon.&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.

Logsdon back in court Friday on motion hearing

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Grand Nationals are back at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

Racing action kicks off Thursday night and runs through Saturday. Pits open at 4 p.m. each night and the grandstand opens at 5 p.m. for spectators. Hot laps begin at 6 p.m. and races kick off at 7:30 Thursday and Friday then 7 p.m. on Saturday.

Advance tickets are still on sale at O’Reilly Auto Parts Stores for $15. Tickets are $20 at the gate and children under 11 are free. Pit passes are $35. No outside drinks or food will be allowed in the grandstand.

The Hutchinson Nationals came to the fairgrounds back in 1957 when the event was moved from Oklahoma City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626362730368.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Rod ZookHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Grand Nationals are back at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.Racing action kicks off Thursday night and runs through Saturday. Pits open at 4 p.m. each night and the grandstand opens at 5 p.m. for spectators. Hot laps begin at 6 p.m. and races kick off at 7:30 Thursday and Friday then 7 p.m. on Saturday.Advance tickets are still on sale at O’Reilly Auto Parts Stores for $15. Tickets are $20 at the gate and children under 11 are free. Pit passes are $35. No outside drinks or food will be allowed in the grandstand.The Hutchinson Nationals came to the fairgrounds back in 1957 when the event was moved from Oklahoma City.<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.

Hutchinson Grand Nationals Thursday to Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council is set to approve a study that would make a full assessment of the Public Works and Parks and Facilities departments when they meet on Tuesday.

The study comes at the request of the council following a city strategic planning meeting in February. The city sent out requests for proposals but received only two. The council will seek approval of the study by Raftelis Group at a cost of $85,000. The bid was easily the highest but Human Resources Director Tom Sanders feels the city will get a better study.

The study will cover a staff analysis and organizational review of the departments including policies, management, and accountability systems. The study will be used to determine where gaps may exist in the city’s delivery of services. The study could also make recommendations as to where to streamline operations, and possibly reallocate personnel.

The group will engage the departments, and overlook existing operations and then assess their findings before making a full report to the council. 

The study is expected to run through the summer and should be ready to present to the council sometime in September.

The matter is a part of Tuesday’s council meeting starting at 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592409584284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council is set to approve a study that would make a full assessment of the Public Works and Parks and Facilities departments when they meet on Tuesday.The study comes at the request of the council following a city strategic planning meeting in February. The city sent out requests for proposals but received only two. The council will seek approval of the study by Raftelis Group at a cost of $85,000. The bid was easily the highest but Human Resources Director Tom Sanders feels the city will get a better study.The study will cover a staff analysis and organizational review of the departments including policies, management, and accountability systems. The study will be used to determine where gaps may exist in the city’s delivery of services. The study could also make recommendations as to where to streamline operations, and possibly reallocate personnel.The group will engage the departments, and overlook existing operations and then assess their findings before making a full report to the council. The study is expected to run through the summer and should be ready to present to the council sometime in September.The matter is a part of Tuesday’s council meeting starting at 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.

City Council to consider department study Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Laurie Carr with the Reno County Health Department is grateful that the Reno County Farmer's Market has taken the effort to make it so they can accept SNAP benefits.

"A person who is on Kansas Food Assistance Program, that's what we call it here in the state, somebody can go to the Farmer's Market, present their card and then go buy fresh produce from that. It's a huge win for our community, especially locally grown fresh produce."

It's important for those who are eligible for the program to understand its advantages.

"We're hoping that when someone goes to redeem their benefits, they will select healthy foods," Carr said. "That's another component of some of the work we're doing."

That work is part of a larger group of tasks that are part of a Blue Cross, Blue Shield Pathways to a Healthy Kansas grant that the county has received.

"There's an application process," Carr said. "That's one of the strategies that we have been working on is, how do you apply for food assistance?" Carr said. "There's a number of ways. Obviously, you can go to the <a href="http://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/FoodAssistanceRelatedLinks.aspx">DCF website.</a> There's also a phone number that we're getting out there, as well, to assist people with the SNAP application process."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626362941793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Laurie Carr with the Reno County Health Department is grateful that the Reno County Farmer's Market has taken the effort to make it so they can accept SNAP benefits."A person who is on Kansas Food Assistance Program, that's what we call it here in the state, somebody can go to the Farmer's Market, present their card and then go buy fresh produce from that. It's a huge win for our community, especially locally grown fresh produce."It's important for those who are eligible for the program to understand its advantages."We're hoping that when someone goes to redeem their benefits, they will select healthy foods," Carr said. "That's another component of some of the work we're doing."That work is part of a larger group of tasks that are part of a Blue Cross, Blue Shield Pathways to a Healthy Kansas grant that the county has received."There's an application process," Carr said. "That's one of the strategies that we have been working on is, how do you apply for food assistance?" Carr said. "There's a number of ways. Obviously, you can go to the <a href="http://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/FoodAssistanceRelatedLinks.aspx">DCF website.</a> There's also a phone number that we're getting out there, as well, to assist people with the SNAP application process."That phone number is 1-888-369-4777.

Local