RENO COUNTY — Deputies with the Reno County Sheriff's Office as well as Troopers with the Kansas Highway Patrol conducted a sobriety checkpoint in the 9800 block of south Yoder Road, Hutchinson, KS on September 24, 2021. 

These checkpoints are designed to identify impaired drivers and remove them from the state's roadways. Those motorists suspected of intoxication were given a set of field sobriety tests. All motorists who failed were arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI).

A total of 250 vehicles were stopped between the hours of 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM the next morning. Of the 12 individuals who were tested for suspicions of DUI, none were arrested. 

The intent is to reduce injury crashes and fatalities attributed to alcohol and drug use. Periodic checkpoints will be set up throughout the year at potentially high crash locations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — Deputies with the Reno County Sheriff's Office as well as Troopers with the Kansas Highway Patrol conducted a sobriety checkpoint in the 9800 block of south Yoder Road, Hutchinson, KS on September 24, 2021. These checkpoints are designed to identify impaired drivers and remove them from the state's roadways. Those motorists suspected of intoxication were given a set of field sobriety tests. All motorists who failed were arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI).A total of 250 vehicles were stopped between the hours of 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM the next morning. Of the 12 individuals who were tested for suspicions of DUI, none were arrested. The intent is to reduce injury crashes and fatalities attributed to alcohol and drug use. Periodic checkpoints will be set up throughout the year at potentially high crash locations.

No arrests from DUI checkpoint last Friday

TOPEKA —Preliminary census day figures released Thursday by the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) show a decrease in full-time equivalency (FTE) student enrollment at public universities and an increase in FTE enrollment at community colleges and technical colleges, including an increase of 20 students at Hutchinson Community College from 3,002 to 3,022 full-time equivalent students. 

Overall, the system has experienced a 1.1% decline in FTE enrollment as of the 20th&nbsp;day fall census.

“The preliminary fall enrollment report brings mixed results and continues a systemwide trend in declining enrollment over the past five years,” said KBOR Chair Cheryl Harrison-Lee. “We must reverse that trend to meet the workforce needs of our state. The Board’s strategic plan, annual goals and budget ask are focused on initiatives that can leverage our system’s strengths and revitalize the Kansas economy.”

Across the six state universities, there was a decrease of 1,735 FTE students (-2.4 percent). Community colleges experienced an increase of 425 FTE students (1.2 percent), while technical colleges saw an increase of 57 FTE students (1.0 percent).

While the FTE student total was down, headcount increased by 1 percent systemwide. In 2020, many colleges experienced a significant decline in high school student enrollment on census day. Several colleges reported that concurrently enrolled high school student enrollment returned closer to pre-pandemic levels on census day 2021, which helped lead to a systemwide increase in headcount. However, since high school students typically take fewer credit hours per semester, the headcount increase did not translate to a systemwide increase in FTE students.

Full-time equivalency is calculated by dividing the total number of undergraduate credit hours taken in a semester by 15 and graduate credit hours by 12.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633013706568.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Preliminary census day figures released Thursday by the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) show a decrease in full-time equivalency (FTE) student enrollment at public universities and an increase in FTE enrollment at community colleges and technical colleges, including an increase of 20 students at Hutchinson Community College from 3,002 to 3,022 full-time equivalent students. Overall, the system has experienced a 1.1% decline in FTE enrollment as of the 20th&nbsp;day fall census.“The preliminary fall enrollment report brings mixed results and continues a systemwide trend in declining enrollment over the past five years,” said KBOR Chair Cheryl Harrison-Lee. “We must reverse that trend to meet the workforce needs of our state. The Board’s strategic plan, annual goals and budget ask are focused on initiatives that can leverage our system’s strengths and revitalize the Kansas economy.”Across the six state universities, there was a decrease of 1,735 FTE students (-2.4 percent). Community colleges experienced an increase of 425 FTE students (1.2 percent), while technical colleges saw an increase of 57 FTE students (1.0 percent).While the FTE student total was down, headcount increased by 1 percent systemwide. In 2020, many colleges experienced a significant decline in high school student enrollment on census day. Several colleges reported that concurrently enrolled high school student enrollment returned closer to pre-pandemic levels on census day 2021, which helped lead to a systemwide increase in headcount. However, since high school students typically take fewer credit hours per semester, the headcount increase did not translate to a systemwide increase in FTE students.Full-time equivalency is calculated by dividing the total number of undergraduate credit hours taken in a semester by 15 and graduate credit hours by 12.

Regents: Enrollment increase at community colleges


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutch Fall Fest is coming up this weekend.

The Rod Run is one of those premier events," said Amy Conkling with Hutch Rec. "Also on Saturday, the morning is kicking off with a 5K/10K Salt City races going on right in front of Salt City Brewing Company, starting at 8 a.m. Later that day, our other premier event for the weekend is our craft brewfest going on from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. It's literally steps outside of our downtown Hutch Rec office, just in front of 17 East First and the Fox Theatre, in that area along First Street, between Main and Walnut."

"It is actually a craft beer focus," Conkling said. "That was not the case in the past. We have ten breweries from across the Sunflower State coming to downtown Hutchinson on Saturday. Tickets are on sale now. You can purchase them. Today is the last day you can get them before they increase. They are $40 now. You can purchase them online at hutchrec.com, or you can go to our downtown office at 17 East First. They bump up to $50 tomorrow and Saturday. You can even purchase them day of."

Here is the schedule of Fall Fest events...

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/6ee63cd9-8098-4f42-a256-bf9937361b22">Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run – Friday, Oct. 1 &amp; Saturday, Oct. 2</a>

Family Movie Night, presented by DCI: The Love Bug at 7:30 p.m.

Fox Theatre presents the Gulf Coast West Coast R &amp; B Ramble with Marcia Ball and Tommy Castro &amp; The Painkillers at 8 p.m. 

Salt City 5K/10K – Saturday, Oct. 2 starting at 8 a.m.

Brewfest: A Craft Beer Festival – Oct. 2 from 2-6 p.m.

Additional Activities on Saturday, Oct. 2

Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson are hosting the annual Judy’s Mile Fun Run/Walk, starting at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. This one-mile fundraiser starts and ends in front of DCI Park, 2nd &amp; Main. 

Salt City Vintage Market from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Avenue A &amp; Walnut.

Hutchinson Symphony will take to the street at 3 p.m. on the corner of 1st Avenue &amp; Main for a special Hometown Tour presentation of Classical &amp; Rock.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633013180667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutch Fall Fest is coming up this weekend.The Rod Run is one of those premier events," said Amy Conkling with Hutch Rec. "Also on Saturday, the morning is kicking off with a 5K/10K Salt City races going on right in front of Salt City Brewing Company, starting at 8 a.m. Later that day, our other premier event for the weekend is our craft brewfest going on from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. It's literally steps outside of our downtown Hutch Rec office, just in front of 17 East First and the Fox Theatre, in that area along First Street, between Main and Walnut."The Brewfest is returning, with a twist."It is actually a craft beer focus," Conkling said. "That was not the case in the past. We have ten breweries from across the Sunflower State coming to downtown Hutchinson on Saturday. Tickets are on sale now. You can purchase them. Today is the last day you can get them before they increase. They are $40 now. You can purchase them online at hutchrec.com, or you can go to our downtown office at 17 East First. They bump up to $50 tomorrow and Saturday. You can even purchase them day of."Here is the schedule of Fall Fest events...<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/6ee63cd9-8098-4f42-a256-bf9937361b22">Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run – Friday, Oct. 1 &amp; Saturday, Oct. 2</a>Additional Activities on Friday, Oct. 1Family Movie Night, presented by DCI: The Love Bug at 7:30 p.m.Fox Theatre presents the Gulf Coast West Coast R &amp; B Ramble with Marcia Ball and Tommy Castro &amp; The Painkillers at 8 p.m. Salt City 5K/10K – Saturday, Oct. 2 starting at 8 a.m.Brewfest: A Craft Beer Festival – Oct. 2 from 2-6 p.m.Additional Activities on Saturday, Oct. 2Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson are hosting the annual Judy’s Mile Fun Run/Walk, starting at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. This one-mile fundraiser starts and ends in front of DCI Park, 2nd &amp; Main. Salt City Vintage Market from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Avenue A &amp; Walnut.Hutchinson Symphony will take to the street at 3 p.m. on the corner of 1st Avenue &amp; Main for a special Hometown Tour presentation of Classical &amp; Rock.

Fall Fest with something for everyone

<a href="https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/ks/wichita/success-stories/covid-19-pandemic-delivers-unique-opportunities-kansas-manufacturer?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Story</a> courtesy of U.S. Small Business Administration Wichita office

Mike Bergmeier, President of ShieldAg Equipment in South Hutchinson, Kansas, would likely tell you that the challenges for small manufacturers in Kansas before the pandemic were many.  From supply chain issues to changing access to markets to skilled labor shortages, running a manufacturing business was no picnic.  It should come as little surprise that the pandemic greatly exacerbated those challenges while introducing new ones.  While many businesses and individuals have been able to pivot and embrace virtual meetings globally, the lack of broadband access in rural areas around the world, including in Kansas, makes virtual business meetings nearly impossible. What does a small business owner do in these unprecedented times to surmount the increasing challenges? They enlist their partners and fellow business owners to combine their creativity, innovation, resourcefulness, and determination to not only ensure their businesses survive but thrive in this new environment.

ShieldAg Equipment has been an innovator in the design and manufacturing of agricultural equipment for more than 50 years, providing fertilizer application equipment, conservation tillage tools, combine harvesting aids, seed and grain handling equipment, and other long-wear-life tools and parts used on farms around the world.  While their products can currently be found in more than 2,000 distributor and dealer locations worldwide, that hasn’t always been the case.  Like many small businesses, the thought of exporting was quite daunting for Bergmeier.  But he knew there was market potential for ShieldAg Equipment beyond the Midwest and even internationally, that would help the company grow and diversify.

Bergmeier sought information and assistance from many resources to begin his adventure in international trade and solidify exports as a key component of revenue for ShieldAg Equipment.  Often working with one partner or agency led him to another that had services to offer.  Over time, Bergmeier worked with the Small Business Administration, US Commercial Services, the Kansas Departments of Agriculture and Commerce, Kansas Global Trade Services, and others to leverage every resource available to make his company a successful exporter.

“You guys (agencies and partners) have helped me remove my fear of exporting and have helped a lot with your programs.   We just need more Kansas manufacturers to apply for these great programs,” said Bergmeier

Prior to the pandemic ShieldAg Equipment partnered with two other Kansas based small businesses, Farmada and SureFire Ag, to manufacture an innovative toolbar for fertilizer application invented by Farmada founder Daniel Rauchholz.  The idea for the toolbar called Elixr came to Rauchholz while he was in Ukraine representing another top agricultural equipment company.  As it happens the agricultural landscape in Ukraine is very similar to that in Kansas, but farmers there do not have access to innovative tools used throughout the US that improve efficiencies and margins. In 2018 Farmada was able to produce the first Elixr toolbars.

Olesksii Khvorostianyi a Ukrainian agronomist and representative with the company Iva Rove says “There is [a]very big problem in Ukraine that the innovative products cannot come very fast to (the) Ukrainian market. (The) Ukrainian market is [a] developing market in the agriculture market. Unfortunately, we have only products which [are] quite old. We want to find the good partnership here (in the USA), for example for the anhydrous ammonia application because it is more and more popular in Ukraine.”

With the pandemic a conventional trade mission was out of the question.  But it’s hard to sell innovative farm equipment site unseen, without demonstrations, and without being able to travel to Ukraine to make an in-person sales call.  With the help of US Commercial Services in Ukraine, potential customers that are farmers, agronomy experts, and equipment dealers were vetted and brought to the Sunflower State as part of a reverse trade mission in February of 2021.  In total 6 Ukrainians visited the small Kansas manufacturers and included one farmer that alone farms over one million acres and has one of the largest sunflower operations in the world.

The reverse trade mission was a resounding success and not only included orders for the innovative equipment, but also resulted in a follow up visit from another large agricultural equipment dealer in the Ukraine when travel became a bit easier as well as a trip to the Ukraine by Rauchholz to solidify the deals made.

Many state and federal agencies provided support for this unique opportunity, including some funding to help offset costs.  Bergmeier said “This was actually NOT about the money, don’t take that wrong - we were grateful for the partial offset of our spending, this was about changing the way we all think about foreign trade missions during and even after the pandemic.”

After the success of the reverse trade mission and subsequent visits to and from Ukraine in the spring of 2021, the pain of the pandemic including supply chain issues and the rising cost of steel and other manufacturing supplies has still been all too real.  The decision by the SBA to increase the amount of COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) could not have come at a better time for ShieldAg Equipment and Mike Bergmeier.

“The EIDL loan increase is essential for a lot of us in small business right now.  I have a huge backlog and even larger increasing material costs and the extra $350,000 will be a huge benefit to my company,” said Bergmeier. For Bergmeier the increasing orders from Ukraine and being poised for rapid expansion in that market is an amazing opportunity but having access to capital is essential for these manufacturers to access the supply chain and increasing material costs.

While the pandemic still endures, so does the drive of small businesses to keep going, take care of their employees, use their ingenuity, and access every available resource they can find to make it to the other side.  Companies like ShieldAg used the programs available such as the Paycheck Protection Program and EIDL to keep employees on the payroll, the lights on, and limited materials arriving at their shops.  And with the newest increase to 2 million dollars for EIDL loans, small manufacturers like ShieldAg Equipment may really begin to recover from the financial pains incurred over the last eighteen months.

When asked about bringing so many government resources together for a few small businesses in Kansas, Bergmeier said, “You know, one thing that we all have to realize is that in the end, business and government worked together as a team to make this happen.   I want it to be able to happen in the future for ALL interested Kansas and USA industries.  Post-pandemic it can be more effective to bring vetted customers to America to explore new business.”  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633009558594.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy-Small Business Administration" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy-Small Business Administration</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/ks/wichita/success-stories/covid-19-pandemic-delivers-unique-opportunities-kansas-manufacturer?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Story</a> courtesy of U.S. Small Business Administration Wichita officeMike Bergmeier, President of ShieldAg Equipment in South Hutchinson, Kansas, would likely tell you that the challenges for small manufacturers in Kansas before the pandemic were many. From supply chain issues to changing access to markets to skilled labor shortages, running a manufacturing business was no picnic. It should come as little surprise that the pandemic greatly exacerbated those challenges while introducing new ones. While many businesses and individuals have been able to pivot and embrace virtual meetings globally, the lack of broadband access in rural areas around the world, including in Kansas, makes virtual business meetings nearly impossible. What does a small business owner do in these unprecedented times to surmount the increasing challenges? They enlist their partners and fellow business owners to combine their creativity, innovation, resourcefulness, and determination to not only ensure their businesses survive but thrive in this new environment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633009537226.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Small Business Administration" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Small Business Administration</figcaption>
 </figure>ShieldAg Equipment has been an innovator in the design and manufacturing of agricultural equipment for more than 50 years, providing fertilizer application equipment, conservation tillage tools, combine harvesting aids, seed and grain handling equipment, and other long-wear-life tools and parts used on farms around the world. While their products can currently be found in more than 2,000 distributor and dealer locations worldwide, that hasn’t always been the case. Like many small businesses, the thought of exporting was quite daunting for Bergmeier. But he knew there was market potential for ShieldAg Equipment beyond the Midwest and even internationally, that would help the company grow and diversify.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633009568755.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Small Business Administration" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Small Business Administration</figcaption>
 </figure>Bergmeier sought information and assistance from many resources to begin his adventure in international trade and solidify exports as a key component of revenue for ShieldAg Equipment. Often working with one partner or agency led him to another that had services to offer. Over time, Bergmeier worked with the Small Business Administration, US Commercial Services, the Kansas Departments of Agriculture and Commerce, Kansas Global Trade Services, and others to leverage every resource available to make his company a successful exporter.“You guys (agencies and partners) have helped me remove my fear of exporting and have helped a lot with your programs. We just need more Kansas manufacturers to apply for these great programs,” said BergmeierPrior to the pandemic ShieldAg Equipment partnered with two other Kansas based small businesses, Farmada and SureFire Ag, to manufacture an innovative toolbar for fertilizer application invented by Farmada founder Daniel Rauchholz. The idea for the toolbar called Elixr came to Rauchholz while he was in Ukraine representing another top agricultural equipment company. As it happens the agricultural landscape in Ukraine is very similar to that in Kansas, but farmers there do not have access to innovative tools used throughout the US that improve efficiencies and margins. In 2018 Farmada was able to produce the first Elixr toolbars.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633009577122.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Small Business Administration" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Small Business Administration</figcaption>
 </figure>Olesksii Khvorostianyi a Ukrainian agronomist and representative with the company Iva Rove says “There is [a]very big problem in Ukraine that the innovative products cannot come very fast to (the) Ukrainian market. (The) Ukrainian market is [a] developing market in the agriculture market. Unfortunately, we have only products which [are] quite old. We want to find the good partnership here (in the USA), for example for the anhydrous ammonia application because it is more and more popular in Ukraine.”With the pandemic a conventional trade mission was out of the question. But it’s hard to sell innovative farm equipment site unseen, without demonstrations, and without being able to travel to Ukraine to make an in-person sales call. With the help of US Commercial Services in Ukraine, potential customers that are farmers, agronomy experts, and equipment dealers were vetted and brought to the Sunflower State as part of a reverse trade mission in February of 2021. In total 6 Ukrainians visited the small Kansas manufacturers and included one farmer that alone farms over one million acres and has one of the largest sunflower operations in the world.The reverse trade mission was a resounding success and not only included orders for the innovative equipment, but also resulted in a follow up visit from another large agricultural equipment dealer in the Ukraine when travel became a bit easier as well as a trip to the Ukraine by Rauchholz to solidify the deals made.Many state and federal agencies provided support for this unique opportunity, including some funding to help offset costs. Bergmeier said “This was actually NOT about the money, don’t take that wrong - we were grateful for the partial offset of our spending, this was about changing the way we all think about foreign trade missions during and even after the pandemic.”After the success of the reverse trade mission and subsequent visits to and from Ukraine in the spring of 2021, the pain of the pandemic including supply chain issues and the rising cost of steel and other manufacturing supplies has still been all too real. The decision by the SBA to increase the amount of COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) could not have come at a better time for ShieldAg Equipment and Mike Bergmeier.“The EIDL loan increase is essential for a lot of us in small business right now. I have a huge backlog and even larger increasing material costs and the extra $350,000 will be a huge benefit to my company,” said Bergmeier. For Bergmeier the increasing orders from Ukraine and being poised for rapid expansion in that market is an amazing opportunity but having access to capital is essential for these manufacturers to access the supply chain and increasing material costs.While the pandemic still endures, so does the drive of small businesses to keep going, take care of their employees, use their ingenuity, and access every available resource they can find to make it to the other side. Companies like ShieldAg used the programs available such as the Paycheck Protection Program and EIDL to keep employees on the payroll, the lights on, and limited materials arriving at their shops. And with the newest increase to 2 million dollars for EIDL loans, small manufacturers like ShieldAg Equipment may really begin to recover from the financial pains incurred over the last eighteen months.When asked about bringing so many government resources together for a few small businesses in Kansas, Bergmeier said, “You know, one thing that we all have to realize is that in the end, business and government worked together as a team to make this happen. I want it to be able to happen in the future for ALL interested Kansas and USA industries. Post-pandemic it can be more effective to bring vetted customers to America to explore new business.”

COVID-19 pandemic delivers unique opportunities for local manufacturer


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Commissioner Ron Sellers provided a proposed resolution to the Board of Reno County Commissioners Tuesday that would cut commissioners pay, if there ends up being more of them.

"It's a resolution amending the salaries for the Board of County Commissioners in 2023," Sellers said. "The gist of it is that, in the event that the electors of Reno County approve a change in the number of commission districts from three to five, with the annual salary for each of the board of county commissioners effective for the pay period commencing January 8, 2023 shall be $10,800, subject to the budget."

"The County Commission on October 5, 1998, via resolution 1998-36, established the office of County Administrator," Sellers said. "It's my feeling, very strongly, that at that point in time, the duties of the county commissioners changed. Prior to that time, there was no county administrator."

County Commission pay prior to the establishment of an administrator was $35,981. It was then changed to $18,000 a year.

"If the voters of Reno County approve the November 2 ballot issue, there will be less time spent by each commissioner," Sellers said. "I think we'll have a better commission and I've stated why before. I'd like for us to debate and consider this resolution at the next meeting."

The next meeting is October 12 at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632997855753.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Commissioner Ron Sellers provided a proposed resolution to the Board of Reno County Commissioners Tuesday that would cut commissioners pay, if there ends up being more of them."It's a resolution amending the salaries for the Board of County Commissioners in 2023," Sellers said. "The gist of it is that, in the event that the electors of Reno County approve a change in the number of commission districts from three to five, with the annual salary for each of the board of county commissioners effective for the pay period commencing January 8, 2023 shall be $10,800, subject to the budget."Sellers then provided some background."The County Commission on October 5, 1998, via resolution 1998-36, established the office of County Administrator," Sellers said. "It's my feeling, very strongly, that at that point in time, the duties of the county commissioners changed. Prior to that time, there was no county administrator."County Commission pay prior to the establishment of an administrator was $35,981. It was then changed to $18,000 a year."If the voters of Reno County approve the November 2 ballot issue, there will be less time spent by each commissioner," Sellers said. "I think we'll have a better commission and I've stated why before. I'd like for us to debate and consider this resolution at the next meeting."The next meeting is October 12 at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

Sellers proposing pay cut if county commission expands

Congress to pass bill to prevent shutdown, city waiting on money for Atrium, thousands mourn Kansas priest, plus more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congress to pass bill to prevent shutdown, city waiting on money for Atrium, thousands mourn Kansas priest, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="September 30, 2021 Morning News" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=w3f9u-10f1f6b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

September 30, 2021 Morning News


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Gas prices normally fall when the season changes. That hasn't been the case yet this year.

"Instead of taking that seasonal dip that we usually see, gas prices are still reflecting summertime levels, when demand was higher," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "The national average dropped a penny on the week to $3.18 a gallon. Kansas stayed exactly the same from where we were a week ago at $2.92."

That keeps Kansas in a relatively low-priced position.

"Reno County is at $2.91 a gallon," Steward said. "Kansas is $2.92 a gallon on average, that puts Kansas at 11th cheapest in the nation as of this week."

High crude oil prices have kept prices from dropping. Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose to over $80 a barrel during the day on Tuesday, the most since October 2018.

"As long as those prices stay high, we're not likely to see a big change in prices at the pump," Steward said. 

Investment bank Goldman Sachs said the benchmark could hit $90 per barrel by the end of the year. According to the Energy Information Administration, over half of the price at the pump is determined by the price of crude oil.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631897543449.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Gas prices normally fall when the season changes. That hasn't been the case yet this year."Instead of taking that seasonal dip that we usually see, gas prices are still reflecting summertime levels, when demand was higher," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "The national average dropped a penny on the week to $3.18 a gallon. Kansas stayed exactly the same from where we were a week ago at $2.92."That keeps Kansas in a relatively low-priced position."Reno County is at $2.91 a gallon," Steward said. "Kansas is $2.92 a gallon on average, that puts Kansas at 11th cheapest in the nation as of this week."High crude oil prices have kept prices from dropping. Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose to over $80 a barrel during the day on Tuesday, the most since October 2018."As long as those prices stay high, we're not likely to see a big change in prices at the pump," Steward said. Investment bank Goldman Sachs said the benchmark could hit $90 per barrel by the end of the year. According to the Energy Information Administration, over half of the price at the pump is determined by the price of crude oil.

Gas prices still elevated, as are crude oil prices

Release from Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhrqPQFaXFw"> 
The Capper Project will rebuild the historic House of Capper to its original grandeur and create the Capper Cooperative Park to pay tribute to Arthur Capper and his work in establishing cooperatives in the United States.</a>

“The Capper Project allows us to bring the House of Capper back to its original grandeur as a center piece for the Kansas State Fair, this combined with the development of the Capper Cooperative Park will bring recognition and honor to the great work of Arthur Capper, former Kansas Governor and US Senator” said Mary McCurry, Chairman, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. “This partnership between the Kansas Cooperative Council, the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation and the Kansas State Fair is a new day for the Kansas State Fair, for understanding the economic impact of the Fair and for paying tribute to the work of cooperatives across Kansas and the United States in the Capper Cooperative Park.”

The Capper Project will create a tribute to the great work of Arthur Capper in rebuilding the historic House of Capper to its original glory and to develop and build the Capper Cooperative Park to celebrate the Capper-Volstead Act of 1922 which allowed for the creation of cooperatives in the United States. The Capper Cooperative Park, a walk-through park, will be developed in the green space to the north of the House of Capper to tell the story of the work of cooperatives in the United States.

“The Kansas Cooperative Council is excited to partner with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation and the Kansas State Fair on this historic project. The Capper-Volstead Act, spearheaded by Arthur Capper, was instrumental in the early successes of not only Kansas cooperatives, but co-ops across the nation. The Kansas Cooperative Council board is looking forward to a space on the fairgrounds that tells the rich history of cooperatives and the continued impact they make on our communities.” Brandi Miller, President/CEO Kansas Cooperative Council.

“The House of Capper has been an integral part of the landscape on the Kansas State Fairgrounds since its inception. Attendees to the Kansas State Fair, and many off-season events, have enjoyed the space which has served as a presentation venue, Fair-time display venue or just a place to get out of the sun.” Said Bryan Schulz, General, Manager, Kansas State Fair. “We are so looking forward to having the House of Capper back in operation thanks to our many wonderful partners and rededicating the venue during our 2022 Kansas State Fair.”

The boards of all three organizations have put full support behind this project with the goal of funding and completing the project to allow for a celebration of the 100-Year Anniversary of the Capper-Volstead Act of 1922 to take place during the 2022 Kansas State Fair. The House of Capper has historical significance on the Kansas State Fairgrounds as the place where many local, state and national political figures announced and launched their campaigns. The original building was paid for entirely by Arthur Capper and built to his design. The rebuild will pay full respect to the original architectural design of the building, while incorporating all current ADA and building regulations.

The Capper Cooperative Park in its conceptual design will consist of one 2-sided stone park designation sign; five or six 2-sided stone wall/storyboards used to tell the story of Arthur Capper and cooperatives in the United States; a paved walking path through the park moving from one storyboard to the next and leading to an entrance to the House of Capper. Landscaping and lighting will be included to accent both the park and the House of Capper.

The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is playing a pivotal role in the success and execution of the renovation and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds. The Kansas State Fair board creates project priorities and works with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation and their partner organizations like the Kansas Cooperative Council to bring private funds to the table for renovations, rebuilds, improvements and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

For more information on how you can support the Capper Project and the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation please contact James Fisher at 816-262-1157 or <a href="http://James.Fisher@KansasSFF.com">James.Fisher@KansasSFF.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632930266676.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Kansas Fairgrounds FoundationHUTCHINSON,
Kan. —<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhrqPQFaXFw"> 
The Capper Project will rebuild the historic House of Capper to its original grandeur and create the Capper Cooperative Park to pay tribute to Arthur Capper and his work in establishing cooperatives in the United States.</a>“The Capper Project allows us to bring the House of Capper back to its original grandeur as a center piece for the Kansas State Fair, this combined with the development of the Capper Cooperative Park will bring recognition and honor to the great work of Arthur Capper, former Kansas Governor and US Senator” said Mary McCurry, Chairman, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. “This partnership between the Kansas Cooperative Council, the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation and the Kansas State Fair is a new day for the Kansas State Fair, for understanding the economic impact of the Fair and for paying tribute to the work of cooperatives across Kansas and the United States in the Capper Cooperative Park.”The Capper Project will create a tribute to the great work of Arthur Capper in rebuilding the historic House of Capper to its original glory and to develop and build the Capper Cooperative Park to celebrate the Capper-Volstead Act of 1922 which allowed for the creation of cooperatives in the United States. The Capper Cooperative Park, a walk-through park, will be developed in the green space to the north of the House of Capper to tell the story of the work of cooperatives in the United States.“The Kansas Cooperative Council is excited to partner with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation and the Kansas State Fair on this historic project. The Capper-Volstead Act, spearheaded by Arthur Capper, was instrumental in the early successes of not only Kansas cooperatives, but co-ops across the nation. The Kansas Cooperative Council board is looking forward to a space on the fairgrounds that tells the rich history of cooperatives and the continued impact they make on our communities.” Brandi Miller, President/CEO Kansas Cooperative Council.“The House of Capper has been an integral part of the landscape on the Kansas State Fairgrounds since its inception. Attendees to the Kansas State Fair, and many off-season events, have enjoyed the space which has served as a presentation venue, Fair-time display venue or just a place to get out of the sun.” Said Bryan Schulz, General, Manager, Kansas State Fair. “We are so looking forward to having the House of Capper back in operation thanks to our many wonderful partners and rededicating the venue during our 2022 Kansas State Fair.”The boards of all three organizations have put full support behind this project with the goal of funding and completing the project to allow for a celebration of the 100-Year Anniversary of the Capper-Volstead Act of 1922 to take place during the 2022 Kansas State Fair. The House of Capper has historical significance on the Kansas State Fairgrounds as the place where many local, state and national political figures announced and launched their campaigns. The original building was paid for entirely by Arthur Capper and built to his design. The rebuild will pay full respect to the original architectural design of the building, while incorporating all current ADA and building regulations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632930567297.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Capper Cooperative Park in its conceptual design will consist of one 2-sided stone park designation sign; five or six 2-sided stone wall/storyboards used to tell the story of Arthur Capper and cooperatives in the United States; a paved walking path through the park moving from one storyboard to the next and leading to an entrance to the House of Capper. Landscaping and lighting will be included to accent both the park and the House of Capper.The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is playing a pivotal role in the success and execution of the renovation and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds. The Kansas State Fair board creates project priorities and works with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation and their partner organizations like the Kansas Cooperative Council to bring private funds to the table for renovations, rebuilds, improvements and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds.For more information on how you can support the Capper Project and the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation please contact James Fisher at 816-262-1157 or <a href="http://James.Fisher@KansasSFF.com">James.Fisher@KansasSFF.com</a>.

Capper project is large collaboration


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson is waiting on the disbursement of funds to close the deal on the Atrium Hotel in the coming weeks.

"We do expect those temporary notes being funded here in the next seven to ten days, which will allow us to complete the purchase transaction of the property," Cantrell said. 

The purchase price will ultimately be paid by those who stay in hotel rooms in Hutchinson through the transient guest tax.

"We will front fund the purchase with cash on hand that is in that fund," Cantrell said. "Years going forward, that debt will be serviced by TGT, the transient guest tax."

The goal is to put a name brand hotel in that space after the rooms have been torn down and a developer has come in to rebuild.

"It's not uncommon for communities to take this task on, especially when they are so dependent upon tourism and transient guest tax collections," Cantrell said. "It's pretty important, obviously important to the Fair. A lot of the sports events that we hold here, it's vitally important to them. Ideally, what you end up with is a partnership of public and private, one that is healthy and that can support sustainable operations of the facility with branding that would be commensurate with what they anticipate when they come into town."

The goal would be to get multiple name brands at the table so the city can get the best offer possible, once the property is ready for development.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson is waiting on the disbursement of funds to close the deal on the Atrium Hotel in the coming weeks."We do expect those temporary notes being funded here in the next seven to ten days, which will allow us to complete the purchase transaction of the property," Cantrell said. The purchase price will ultimately be paid by those who stay in hotel rooms in Hutchinson through the transient guest tax."We will front fund the purchase with cash on hand that is in that fund," Cantrell said. "Years going forward, that debt will be serviced by TGT, the transient guest tax."The goal is to put a name brand hotel in that space after the rooms have been torn down and a developer has come in to rebuild."It's not uncommon for communities to take this task on, especially when they are so dependent upon tourism and transient guest tax collections," Cantrell said. "It's pretty important, obviously important to the Fair. A lot of the sports events that we hold here, it's vitally important to them. Ideally, what you end up with is a partnership of public and private, one that is healthy and that can support sustainable operations of the facility with branding that would be commensurate with what they anticipate when they come into town."The goal would be to get multiple name brands at the table so the city can get the best offer possible, once the property is ready for development.

City to close on Atrium purchase in coming weeks

RENO COUNTY — 
Nitrate levels have risen above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. The levels have consistently tested at 11 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. Nitrate levels in water resources have increased in many areas due to applications of inorganic fertilizer and animal manure in agricultural areas.

On August 12, 2020, Reno County received a precautionary public notice for acute nitrate violation from KDHE. A warning was then sent to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. A second notice was sent on September 3, 2020, due to additional testing. A third precautionary public notice sent on October 27, 2020, requiring bottled water to be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider.

On May 7, 2021, Reno County received a precautionary public drinking water advisory of potential Nitrate water quality from KDHE. A warning was then sent out on May 17, 2021, to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. A second notice was sent to residents on September 23, 2021, due to additional testing and a third notice will be sent out October 4, 2021, due to additional testing as well.

For additional information please contact Don Brittain, Public Works Director at 620-694-2976.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — 
Nitrate levels have risen above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. The levels have consistently tested at 11 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. Nitrate levels in water resources have increased in many areas due to applications of inorganic fertilizer and animal manure in agricultural areas.On August 12, 2020, Reno County received a precautionary public notice for acute nitrate violation from KDHE. A warning was then sent to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. A second notice was sent on September 3, 2020, due to additional testing. A third precautionary public notice sent on October 27, 2020, requiring bottled water to be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider.On May 7, 2021, Reno County received a precautionary public drinking water advisory of potential Nitrate water quality from KDHE. A warning was then sent out on May 17, 2021, to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. A second notice was sent to residents on September 23, 2021, due to additional testing and a third notice will be sent out October 4, 2021, due to additional testing as well. For additional information please contact Don Brittain, Public Works Director at 620-694-2976.&nbsp;&nbsp;

High nitrate level advisory in Yoder area

LINDSBORG — 
A new music ensemble is debuting in Lindsborg next month, the Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley! Supported by one of Bethany College's Presidential Strategic Grants and further supported by the Lindsborg Arts Council, the chamber orchestra is an auditioned, regional ensemble of professional musicians that includes not only some Bethany faculty members, but players from Wichita, Salina, and Hutchinson as well. 

Seeking to educate and engage audience members through the performance of orchestral masterworks, the ensemble will be under the musical direction of Dr. Keith Dodson, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Instrumental Studies at Bethany, and led by concertmaster Ann Samuelson, Instructor of Upper Strings. 

While there are many symphonic orchestras in the central Kansas area, this ensemble is unique in terms of its smaller size. The size allows the group to create a level of intimacy in their performance and venues that creates a different concert experience from the large halls of symphonic orchestras.&nbsp;

The Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley will perform their first concert on Sunday, October 24th, at 3:30 p.m. at the Swedish Pavilion of the Lindsborg Old Mill &amp; Swedish Heritage Museum. The concert will feature works by Richard Wagner, Frank Bridge, and Ludwig van Beethoven. The concert will be free to the public but donations are welcomed and encouraged. 

You can get reminders of upcoming events by following the group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Chamber-Orchestra-of-the-Smoky-Valley-105968948504836/">on its Facebook page.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632924357680.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Bethany CollegeLINDSBORG — 
A new music ensemble is debuting in Lindsborg next month, the Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley! Supported by one of Bethany College's Presidential Strategic Grants and further supported by the Lindsborg Arts Council, the chamber orchestra is an auditioned, regional ensemble of professional musicians that includes not only some Bethany faculty members, but players from Wichita, Salina, and Hutchinson as well. Seeking to educate and engage audience members through the performance of orchestral masterworks, the ensemble will be under the musical direction of Dr. Keith Dodson, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Instrumental Studies at Bethany, and led by concertmaster Ann Samuelson, Instructor of Upper Strings. While there are many symphonic orchestras in the central Kansas area, this ensemble is unique in terms of its smaller size. The size allows the group to create a level of intimacy in their performance and venues that creates a different concert experience from the large halls of symphonic orchestras.&nbsp;The Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley will perform their first concert on Sunday, October 24th, at 3:30 p.m. at the Swedish Pavilion of the Lindsborg Old Mill &amp; Swedish Heritage Museum. The concert will feature works by Richard Wagner, Frank Bridge, and Ludwig van Beethoven. The concert will be free to the public but donations are welcomed and encouraged. You can get reminders of upcoming events by following the group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Chamber-Orchestra-of-the-Smoky-Valley-105968948504836/">on its Facebook page.</a>

New chamber orchestra in Lindsborg announces first performance


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Board of Reno County Commissioners Chairman Ron Hirst had some cautionary comments at the meeting Tuesday.

"People probably don't like to hear this, but I have a feeling that in our rush to go below revenue neutral, we may not have realized what the effect of printing money has upon inflation that is occurring right now," Hirst said. "I think we misunderstood, or didn't take a look, or maybe we did, the amount and the rapid increase in inflation that's occurring. I hope that it is over with in six months."

Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell also notes that the amount of inflation that will last remains to be seen.

"That's a factor that we're always mindful of," Cantrell said. "It's something that we try to protect ourselves from in the budgeting process when we do our projections and our modeling. It's certainly unknown. If I knew the answer to that, I'd probably be in a different line of work in a warmer state."

Hirst is looking ahead to some potential tough decisions in future years if inflation continues at its current pace.

"Inflation could really hit us hard," Hirst said. "We'll survive 2022, but it's the next budget year that I am concerned with, should inflation continue its ugly head at 5% or 4% or 3% or whatever. I just want the public to know that we may need to know what they want for services, for sure. This isn't something we like to talk about."

County Commissioner Ron Sellers has said before that tough budget decisions having more voices as a part of them is a reason he is a proponent of expanding the Board of County Commissioners from three to five members.

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Board of Reno County Commissioners Chairman Ron Hirst had some cautionary comments at the meeting Tuesday."People probably don't like to hear this, but I have a feeling that in our rush to go below revenue neutral, we may not have realized what the effect of printing money has upon inflation that is occurring right now," Hirst said. "I think we misunderstood, or didn't take a look, or maybe we did, the amount and the rapid increase in inflation that's occurring. I hope that it is over with in six months."Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell also notes that the amount of inflation that will last remains to be seen."That's a factor that we're always mindful of," Cantrell said. "It's something that we try to protect ourselves from in the budgeting process when we do our projections and our modeling. It's certainly unknown. If I knew the answer to that, I'd probably be in a different line of work in a warmer state."Hirst is looking ahead to some potential tough decisions in future years if inflation continues at its current pace."Inflation could really hit us hard," Hirst said. "We'll survive 2022, but it's the next budget year that I am concerned with, should inflation continue its ugly head at 5% or 4% or 3% or whatever. I just want the public to know that we may need to know what they want for services, for sure. This isn't something we like to talk about."County Commissioner Ron Sellers has said before that tough budget decisions having more voices as a part of them is a reason he is a proponent of expanding the Board of County Commissioners from three to five members.

County and city watching inflation's potential impact on future budgets

TOPEKA — Twenty-six school officials from across Kansas have been selected to KASB’s BOLD class of school leaders, including superintendents from Pretty Prairie, Buhler and Pratt and a principal from Newton.

The Business Operations Leadership Development (BOLD) program focuses on the daily operations and long-range planning to run a school district. The program develops knowledge on building and facilities master planning, technology planning, finance strategies, procurement processes, school security, risk management and human resources.

Selectees will participate in six training sessions developed by KASB leadership staff, KASB business partners and experts from across the state.

Those school officials selected to participate in the 2021-22 class are:

Ashley Anderson, superintendent, Pretty Prairie USD 311

Trevor Ashcroft, curriculum director, Vermillion USD 380

Dorsey Burgess, superintendent, South Haven USD 509

Cindy Couchman, superintendent, Buhler USD 313

Lance Custer, superintendent, Minneola USD 219

Jennifer Davis, executive director, El Dorado USD 490

Terrell Davis, executive director, Wichita USD 259

Linn Exline, superintendent, Salina USD 305

Faith Flory, curriculum director, Santa Fe Trail USD 434

Jennifer Gatz, assistant superintendent, Prairie Hills USD 113

Raquel Greer, assistant superintendent, Mulvane USD 263

John Hamon, superintendent, Kinsley-Offerle USD 347

Tony Helfrich, superintendent, Pratt USD 382

Kay Hill, superintendent, Chautauqua USD 286

Steve Norbdy, principal, Garden City, USD 457

Robert Reed, superintendent, Cunningham USD 332

Eric Reid, assistant superintendent, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383

Jason Scheck, principal, Dodge City USD 443

Brian Schwanz, director of secondary personnel, De Soto USD 232

Marc Williams, principal, Spring Hill USD 230

Brad Womack, superintendent, Silver Lake USD 372

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588933801473.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Twenty-six school officials from across Kansas have been selected to KASB’s BOLD class of school leaders, including superintendents from Pretty Prairie, Buhler and Pratt and a principal from Newton.The Business Operations Leadership Development (BOLD) program focuses on the daily operations and long-range planning to run a school district. The program develops knowledge on building and facilities master planning, technology planning, finance strategies, procurement processes, school security, risk management and human resources.Selectees will participate in six training sessions developed by KASB leadership staff, KASB business partners and experts from across the state.Those school officials selected to participate in the 2021-22 class are:Ashley Anderson, superintendent, Pretty Prairie USD 311Trevor Ashcroft, curriculum director, Vermillion USD 380Dorsey Burgess, superintendent, South Haven USD 509Cindy Couchman, superintendent, Buhler USD 313Lance Custer, superintendent, Minneola USD 219Jennifer Davis, executive director, El Dorado USD 490Terrell Davis, executive director, Wichita USD 259Linn Exline, superintendent, Salina USD 305Faith Flory, curriculum director, Santa Fe Trail USD 434Jennifer Gatz, assistant superintendent, Prairie Hills USD 113Raquel Greer, assistant superintendent, Mulvane USD 263John Hamon, superintendent, Kinsley-Offerle USD 347Tony Helfrich, superintendent, Pratt USD 382Deena Hilbig, principal, Salina USD 305Kay Hill, superintendent, Chautauqua USD 286Steve Norbdy, principal, Garden City, USD 457Robert Reed, superintendent, Cunningham USD 332Eric Reid, assistant superintendent, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383Jason Scheck, principal, Dodge City USD 443Brian Schwanz, director of secondary personnel, De Soto USD 232Caleb Smith, principal, Newton USD 373Tanner Smith, principal, Lyndon USD 421John West, principal, Healy USD 468Marc Williams, principal, Spring Hill USD 230Brad Womack, superintendent, Silver Lake USD 372Jeremy Woydziak, KASB director of sales.

Local superintendents part of KASB training class


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper notes that the proactive policing his department is doing appears to be working from a statistical standpoint.

"So far this year, we have crime down an additional over 30%," Hooper said. "The first year I was here, we were able to lower crime about 28% and now we're down an additional 30-some percent and so, we've reduced crime over 50% in the three years since we implemented our intelligence-led policing strategy."

Proactive policing really is strengthened with good data collection.

"We're using a new analyst tool," Hooper said. "We're calling it a near-repeat analysis. What my analyst has discovered is that when a Part 1 crime occurs in this community, there's a 43% greater likelihood that a second Part 1 crime will occur within 1000 feet of that crime within the next seven days."

The department puts those on a map that all officers have access to.

"Especially where you have where two of those or three of those intersect, obviously, there's a very high likelihood that's going to be where another crime is going to occur in the next week," Hooper said. "We use that mapping strategy. It's put up in our shift detail room. Every vehicle has it on their screen. When officers aren't responding to calls, they are out on foot patrol or they are patrolling those high areas where those near repeat statistics show that they should be."

Sometimes there are reasons that things like property crimes happen in certain areas like inadequate lighting or poorly maintained property. In those cases, police work with other city agencies to address the civil concerns that make it easier for offenders to commit crimes.

<figure>
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper notes that the proactive policing his department is doing appears to be working from a statistical standpoint."So far this year, we have crime down an additional over 30%," Hooper said. "The first year I was here, we were able to lower crime about 28% and now we're down an additional 30-some percent and so, we've reduced crime over 50% in the three years since we implemented our intelligence-led policing strategy."Proactive policing really is strengthened with good data collection."We're using a new analyst tool," Hooper said. "We're calling it a near-repeat analysis. What my analyst has discovered is that when a Part 1 crime occurs in this community, there's a 43% greater likelihood that a second Part 1 crime will occur within 1000 feet of that crime within the next seven days."The department puts those on a map that all officers have access to."Especially where you have where two of those or three of those intersect, obviously, there's a very high likelihood that's going to be where another crime is going to occur in the next week," Hooper said. "We use that mapping strategy. It's put up in our shift detail room. Every vehicle has it on their screen. When officers aren't responding to calls, they are out on foot patrol or they are patrolling those high areas where those near repeat statistics show that they should be."Sometimes there are reasons that things like property crimes happen in certain areas like inadequate lighting or poorly maintained property. In those cases, police work with other city agencies to address the civil concerns that make it easier for offenders to commit crimes.

Hooper: Data helping in proactive policing

YODER Kan. —A Butler County man man was injured in an accident just before 11 a.m. Tuesday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a car driven by 58-year-old Mark Howard Hixson of&nbsp; Eldorado, was westbound on Kansas 96 Highway one mile east of Yoder Road. The vehicle ran off the highway to the right and struck a guardrail.

EMS transported Hixson to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<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/2020/6/1592922832300.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>YODER Kan. —A Butler County man man was injured in an accident just before 11 a.m. Tuesday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a car driven by 58-year-old Mark Howard Hixson of&nbsp; Eldorado, was westbound on Kansas 96 Highway one mile east of Yoder Road. The vehicle ran off the highway to the right and struck a guardrail.EMS transported Hixson to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.<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.

Kansas man hospitalized after car strikes guardrail

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — First District Congressman Tracey Mann introduced the Stop Vaccine Mandates Act in the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday. This legislation prohibits the Occupational Safety and Health Administration from mandating that private employers require their employees to be vaccinated.

"It's simple - those who want to receive the vaccine should have the ability to do so,” Mann said.. “If someone doesn't want to, that is a decision they have the right to make. It is not the government's place to dictate that choice."

Rep. Mann's legislation follows President Biden's recent executive order mandating all federal employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and his directive requiring all employers of businesses with 100 or more employees to mandate the vaccine.

“The Biden Administration’s proposed rule not only tramples on the rights of free Americans, but it forces private businesses to impose this crooked mandate," Mann said. "My bill prohibits OSHA from implementing such a rule and protects the rights of the American people."

Last month, Rep. Mann also sent a letter to President Biden, urging him to rescind his nursing home vaccine mandate that would result in nursing home labor shortages and residents receiving lower-quality care. Rep. Mann will continue to oppose any Federal mandate of the COVID-19 vaccine.

<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/2021/1/1611661175821.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — First District Congressman Tracey Mann introduced the Stop Vaccine Mandates Act in the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday. This legislation prohibits the Occupational Safety and Health Administration from mandating that private employers require their employees to be vaccinated."It's simple - those who want to receive the vaccine should have the ability to do so,” Mann said.. “If someone doesn't want to, that is a decision they have the right to make. It is not the government's place to dictate that choice."Rep. Mann's legislation follows President Biden's recent executive order mandating all federal employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and his directive requiring all employers of businesses with 100 or more employees to mandate the vaccine.“The Biden Administration’s proposed rule not only tramples on the rights of free Americans, but it forces private businesses to impose this crooked mandate," Mann said. "My bill prohibits OSHA from implementing such a rule and protects the rights of the American people."Last month, Rep. Mann also sent a letter to President Biden, urging him to rescind his nursing home vaccine mandate that would result in nursing home labor shortages and residents receiving lower-quality care. Rep. Mann will continue to oppose any Federal mandate of the COVID-19 vaccine.<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;

Kansas Congressman Tracey Mann introduces vaccination mandate legislation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are still plenty of tickets left for the Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting. This year's meeting is set for Nov. 4 at the Meadowlark Building on the Kansas state fairgrounds. According to the Chamber, more than 100 tickets are still up for sale.&nbsp;

This year's annual meeting will feature Denise Lee Yohn, the go-to expert on brand leadership for national media outlets, an in-demand keynote speaker and consultant, and influential writer. The event will also feature a newly-expanded sponsor expo for the social and networking portion of the evening in the Sunflower South Building on the fairgrounds.

Tickets are $70 through Oct. 15 and go up $10 after that. A table of 10 is $700 and then $800 after Oct. 15.

<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/2021/7/1625686816585.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are still plenty of tickets left for the Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting. This year's meeting is set for Nov. 4 at the Meadowlark Building on the Kansas state fairgrounds. According to the Chamber, more than 100 tickets are still up for sale.&nbsp;This year's annual meeting will feature Denise Lee Yohn, the go-to expert on brand leadership for national media outlets, an in-demand keynote speaker and consultant, and influential writer. The event will also feature a newly-expanded sponsor expo for the social and networking portion of the evening in the Sunflower South Building on the fairgrounds.Tickets are $70 through Oct. 15 and go up $10 after that. A table of 10 is $700 and then $800 after Oct. 15.<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;

Tickets still available for Chamber annual meeting

CHENEY, Kan. — A Cheney student has been named the winner of this year’s state D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) essay contest.&nbsp;

Kennedy Eastman, currently a sixth-grade student at Cheney Elementary School, was named the winner of the statewide contest, which is coordinated by the Kansas Juvenile Officers Association. The announcement was made in July during the organization’s annual banquet in Lawrence.&nbsp;

“The D.A.R.E. program teaches students valuable life skills,” Attorney General Derek Schmidt said. “Kennedy’s essay focused on the dangers of nicotine. Her personal story of how smoking has affected her family was especially impactful, and I greatly appreciate Kennedy sharing this message with others.”

The statewide D.A.R.E. program is coordinated by the Attorney General’s Office. More than 100 Kansas communities have D.A.R.E. programs serving students in their areas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577728558861.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHENEY, Kan. — A Cheney student has been named the winner of this year’s state D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) essay contest.&nbsp;Kennedy Eastman, currently a sixth-grade student at Cheney Elementary School, was named the winner of the statewide contest, which is coordinated by the Kansas Juvenile Officers Association. The announcement was made in July during the organization’s annual banquet in Lawrence.&nbsp;“The D.A.R.E. program teaches students valuable life skills,” Attorney General Derek Schmidt said. “Kennedy’s essay focused on the dangers of nicotine. Her personal story of how smoking has affected her family was especially impactful, and I greatly appreciate Kennedy sharing this message with others.”The statewide D.A.R.E. program is coordinated by the Attorney General’s Office. More than 100 Kansas communities have D.A.R.E. programs serving students in their areas.<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;

Cheney student named D.A.R.E. contest winner

Hutchinson, KS&nbsp;– After 34 years of service, Brenda Maxey, President and CEO of TECH, announces her retirement, starting a leadership transition process over the next 10 months. Maxey’s decision to retire will bring to close a remarkable career of 34 years of service to TECH.&nbsp;

“Brenda has tirelessly served the needs of our clients at TECH, as well as the entire organization, for 34 years. Her smile, energy and servant’s heart will be missed,” said Bob Capps, Chairman of the TECH Operations Board of Directors.

“It’s been an honor to serve as the President and CEO of TECH for the last 22 years. I am proud of the impact that TECH makes every single day. We have a remarkable team providing the highest quality of services to people with disabilities in Hutchinson, helping those individuals live the very best life possible. And our community – they have embraced the people we serve, allowing TECH to become a part of the fabric that weaves our community together,” says Maxey.

The TECH board of directors has been working to identify a successor for Maxey and are excited to announce that Kevin Hess, Vice President of Business and Finance for TECH, has been named as the new CEO for the organization. “Kevin’s hire three years ago was very purposeful. While he was a great candidate for the Vice President role, his skills and capabilities far exceeded the position of CFO,” says Maxey. She went on to say, “I have all the confidence in Kevin’s ability to lead the team and the organization to the next level.”

“Brenda spoke with the executive committee of the board in March 2021 about her interest in retiring and beginning a successorship for the CEO position.&nbsp; She gave us plenty of time to prepare for her departure and plan for the organization’s next steps,” says Capps. He went on to say, “Kevin brings a long and successful business career as well as having been the CFO at TECH for the past 3 years. He will be a wonderful successor for Brenda and will continue to grow TECH in the community.”

“I’ve been very strategic in the planning of this (retirement), it has never been about a specific date, but more about the right time. It was important to me that we had a very strong team in place, and I feel the time is right and I can’t wait to see what this team is capable of,” says Maxey.

Maxey started her career with TECH in 1988 as a Residential Services Coordinator for the agency after working as a Direct Support Staff in Colorado while attending college. Since then, she has had an opportunity to sit in nearly every seat of the organization, offering her a unique perspective as a leader and CEO. In 1999, Maxey became the second CEO in TECH’s history, behind her long-time mentor, the late Maurice Cummings. During her time as CEO, Maxey said she has experienced many great accomplishments as well as unexpected challenges.

During Maxey’s tenure, she has guided the organization through several significant projects including, the start of the e-Cycle program in 2009 and the TECH Art Program in 2010; the beginning of a partnership with Manske &amp; Associates which yielded the creation of the TECH Art Gallery, relocation of the TECH Administrative Offices into the Wiley Building and the brand-new construction of The Link, a 29-unit apartment complex in Downtown Hutchinson for people with developmental disabilities and aging residents; the expansion of our elder care program, including the creation of TECH retirement homes over the last 20 years. Maxey has also been very active at the State and National levels, holding officer positions with both the State and National Associations, while advocating on behalf of people with disabilities.

Maxey leaves the organization in solid financial standing with a team that she has the utmost confidence in. “I still plan to be involved in the organization, certainly as a supporter, but will continue my advocacy roles at the local, state and national levels because advocating for people with disabilities is and always will be a passion of mine,” says Maxey. “While I plan to sit back, take a breath and see what my next chapter looks like, I know that TECH will always be a part of my future.”

Maxey’s retirement date is set for July 1, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632849456071.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from TECHHutchinson, KS&nbsp;– After 34 years of service, Brenda Maxey, President and CEO of TECH, announces her retirement, starting a leadership transition process over the next 10 months. Maxey’s decision to retire will bring to close a remarkable career of 34 years of service to TECH.&nbsp;“Brenda has tirelessly served the needs of our clients at TECH, as well as the entire organization, for 34 years. Her smile, energy and servant’s heart will be missed,” said Bob Capps, Chairman of the TECH Operations Board of Directors.“It’s been an honor to serve as the President and CEO of TECH for the last 22 years. I am proud of the impact that TECH makes every single day. We have a remarkable team providing the highest quality of services to people with disabilities in Hutchinson, helping those individuals live the very best life possible. And our community – they have embraced the people we serve, allowing TECH to become a part of the fabric that weaves our community together,” says Maxey.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632849464798.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The TECH board of directors has been working to identify a successor for Maxey and are excited to announce that Kevin Hess, Vice President of Business and Finance for TECH, has been named as the new CEO for the organization. “Kevin’s hire three years ago was very purposeful. While he was a great candidate for the Vice President role, his skills and capabilities far exceeded the position of CFO,” says Maxey. She went on to say, “I have all the confidence in Kevin’s ability to lead the team and the organization to the next level.”“Brenda spoke with the executive committee of the board in March 2021 about her interest in retiring and beginning a successorship for the CEO position.&nbsp; She gave us plenty of time to prepare for her departure and plan for the organization’s next steps,” says Capps. He went on to say, “Kevin brings a long and successful business career as well as having been the CFO at TECH for the past 3 years. He will be a wonderful successor for Brenda and will continue to grow TECH in the community.”“I’ve been very strategic in the planning of this (retirement), it has never been about a specific date, but more about the right time. It was important to me that we had a very strong team in place, and I feel the time is right and I can’t wait to see what this team is capable of,” says Maxey.Maxey started her career with TECH in 1988 as a Residential Services Coordinator for the agency after working as a Direct Support Staff in Colorado while attending college. Since then, she has had an opportunity to sit in nearly every seat of the organization, offering her a unique perspective as a leader and CEO. In 1999, Maxey became the second CEO in TECH’s history, behind her long-time mentor, the late Maurice Cummings. During her time as CEO, Maxey said she has experienced many great accomplishments as well as unexpected challenges.During Maxey’s tenure, she has guided the organization through several significant projects including, the start of the e-Cycle program in 2009 and the TECH Art Program in 2010; the beginning of a partnership with Manske &amp; Associates which yielded the creation of the TECH Art Gallery, relocation of the TECH Administrative Offices into the Wiley Building and the brand-new construction of The Link, a 29-unit apartment complex in Downtown Hutchinson for people with developmental disabilities and aging residents; the expansion of our elder care program, including the creation of TECH retirement homes over the last 20 years. Maxey has also been very active at the State and National levels, holding officer positions with both the State and National Associations, while advocating on behalf of people with disabilities.Maxey leaves the organization in solid financial standing with a team that she has the utmost confidence in. “I still plan to be involved in the organization, certainly as a supporter, but will continue my advocacy roles at the local, state and national levels because advocating for people with disabilities is and always will be a passion of mine,” says Maxey. “While I plan to sit back, take a breath and see what my next chapter looks like, I know that TECH will always be a part of my future.”Maxey’s retirement date is set for July 1, 2022.

TECH's longtime CEO announces retirement, vice-president to be promoted


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners has placed a moratorium on wind development in the county and due to this policy shift, County Counselor Joe O' Sullivan sees it as best to go back through the planning commission process.

"We thought that the process would be much cleaner and more transparent, whatever decision this board of county commissioners makes, when new proposed legislation comes before it, as well as the pending recommendation for zoning regulations with respect to wind energy, and that any decision that the board makes might well be appealed. What we're doing will not prevent anybody from appealing to the district court, a decision that you ultimately make in this case, but we think whatever decision you make would be better legally supported if we follow this process."

The original wind regulation process was presented to the public as just that and not as a potential ban.

"In the publications for the hearings, it was for wind energy conversion systems regulations," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "All the input they received, the public comments were based on that. Then, when the county commission started making changes, or it became known that they were wanting to ban wind, or at least put a ban in the zoned areas, it made practical sense for people to have a understanding and have the chance to participate in public hearings to know that the new focus is to ban wind in the zoned areas."

The moratorium officially stretches into March 2022 as written, but it is the intent of the commission to take up the issue in December after the planning commission has public input between now and then.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624541123020.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners has placed a moratorium on wind development in the county and due to this policy shift, County Counselor Joe O' Sullivan sees it as best to go back through the planning commission process."We thought that the process would be much cleaner and more transparent, whatever decision this board of county commissioners makes, when new proposed legislation comes before it, as well as the pending recommendation for zoning regulations with respect to wind energy, and that any decision that the board makes might well be appealed. What we're doing will not prevent anybody from appealing to the district court, a decision that you ultimately make in this case, but we think whatever decision you make would be better legally supported if we follow this process."The original wind regulation process was presented to the public as just that and not as a potential ban."In the publications for the hearings, it was for wind energy conversion systems regulations," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "All the input they received, the public comments were based on that. Then, when the county commission started making changes, or it became known that they were wanting to ban wind, or at least put a ban in the zoned areas, it made practical sense for people to have a understanding and have the chance to participate in public hearings to know that the new focus is to ban wind in the zoned areas."The moratorium officially stretches into March 2022 as written, but it is the intent of the commission to take up the issue in December after the planning commission has public input between now and then.

County commission wind moratorium passed, potential ban will have public hearings

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council&nbsp; approved the lease of a new fire truck. Chief Steven Beer says the truck will be located in the new fire station on North Main when it's finished.

“So the new station on North Main, instead of just having a single engine company it will have a battalion chief, it will have a truck company, it will have an engine company,” Beer said. “The reason for that is that it's our busiest station.”

The other reason for relocating the new ladder truck is the closer distance from the station to the Main Street Corridor. The new truck costs $1.5 million and will be a lease to purchase over ten years. Even though the yearly payments of $164,000 will be higher under the approved lease, Beer says the city will avoid a lump sum payment of around $300,000 at the end of ten years and will own the truck outright. 

The tentative plan is to sell the truck at that time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612300078658.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council&nbsp; approved the lease of a new fire truck. Chief Steven Beer says the truck will be located in the new fire station on North Main when it's finished.“So the new station on North Main, instead of just having a single engine company it will have a battalion chief, it will have a truck company, it will have an engine company,” Beer said. “The reason for that is that it's our busiest station.”The other reason for relocating the new ladder truck is the closer distance from the station to the Main Street Corridor. The new truck costs $1.5 million and will be a lease to purchase over ten years. Even though the yearly payments of $164,000 will be higher under the approved lease, Beer says the city will avoid a lump sum payment of around $300,000 at the end of ten years and will own the truck outright. The tentative plan is to sell the truck at that time.<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 approves fire engine lease

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved the city's 2022 budget again after it was forced to hold a special meeting due to an error in the original budget.

Director of Finance, Angela Richard, 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 believed the best action is to republish the form with the Hutchinson Recreation Commission levy included and hold a new budget hearing.&nbsp;

The corrected form was published September 17, so the additional meeting was held to adopt the corrected form and have another public hearing. Once again the budget was approved by a vote of 4-1 with Sara Bagwell casting the lone no vote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592409584284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved the city's 2022 budget again after it was forced to hold a special meeting due to an error in the original budget.Director of Finance, Angela Richard, 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 believed the best action is to republish the form with the Hutchinson Recreation Commission levy included and hold a new budget hearing.&nbsp;The corrected form was published September 17, so the additional meeting was held to adopt the corrected form and have another public hearing. Once again the budget was approved by a vote of 4-1 with Sara Bagwell casting the lone no vote.<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;