K-State's Upham explains reasons, offers solutions&nbsp;

MANHATTAN – For Kansas gardeners, watching vegetables bloom but not set fruit can be very frustrating.&nbsp;

Yet, for various reasons, that often happens this is the time of year, says Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham.&nbsp;

“There are several possible reasons,” he said. “One condition that can affect several species is over-fertilization.”&nbsp;

Upham said that too much nitrogen in the soil causes the plant to emphasize vegetative growth, often to the detriment of fruit production. Over-fertilization can lead to a delay in flower production and a decrease in fruit set among the flowers that do produce.&nbsp;

“This is especially true of tomatoes,” Upham said. “Over-fertilized tomatoes will produce a large, apparently healthy plant with no flowers, or flowers that don’t set fruit.”&nbsp;

Tomatoes, a popular choice of many gardeners, also won’t set fruit if the night-time temperature falls below 50 degrees F, which leads to sparse pollen production, according to Upham.&nbsp;

“They also won’t set when night-time temperatures are above 75 degree and daytime temperatures are above 95 degrees with hot, dry winds,” he said. “Under such conditions, fertilization is not completed and no fruit develops. However, cherry tomatoes may be more forgiving of high temperatures than the larger slicers and will often set fruit in the heat.”&nbsp;

Upham said that many other crops – including squash, cucumbers, watermelon and muskmelon – can experience other problems.&nbsp;

“First, the early flowers on these plants are usually all male; the production of male and female flowers becomes more balanced as time passes,” he said. “You can easily tell the difference between the two because only the female flower has a tiny fruit behind the blossom.”&nbsp;

Upham said that if gardeners see both male and female flowers, have not fertilized, but still have a problem, it could be that the garden does not have enough pollinators.&nbsp;

“Look for the presence of bees visiting the plants,” Upham said. “If you don’t see any, try hand-pollinating several flowers. Use a painter’s brush to transfer pollen from the anther of the male flower to the stigma of the female flower. If you get fruit on any of those flowers you pollinated, you need more pollinators.”&nbsp;

Upham also cautioned against the over-use of insecticides, which can kill pollinators. He advises spraying near dusk when flowers have closed.&nbsp;

Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625444048167.jpeg" alt="Temperature and the amount of fertilizer used can affect tomato production. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Temperature and the amount of fertilizer used can affect tomato production. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State's Upham explains reasons, offers solutions&nbsp;</h2>MANHATTAN – For Kansas gardeners, watching vegetables bloom but not set fruit can be very frustrating.&nbsp;Yet, for various reasons, that often happens this is the time of year, says Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham.&nbsp;“There are several possible reasons,” he said. “One condition that can affect several species is over-fertilization.”&nbsp;Upham said that too much nitrogen in the soil causes the plant to emphasize vegetative growth, often to the detriment of fruit production. Over-fertilization can lead to a delay in flower production and a decrease in fruit set among the flowers that do produce.&nbsp;“This is especially true of tomatoes,” Upham said. “Over-fertilized tomatoes will produce a large, apparently healthy plant with no flowers, or flowers that don’t set fruit.”&nbsp;Tomatoes, a popular choice of many gardeners, also won’t set fruit if the night-time temperature falls below 50 degrees F, which leads to sparse pollen production, according to Upham.&nbsp;“They also won’t set when night-time temperatures are above 75 degree and daytime temperatures are above 95 degrees with hot, dry winds,” he said. “Under such conditions, fertilization is not completed and no fruit develops. However, cherry tomatoes may be more forgiving of high temperatures than the larger slicers and will often set fruit in the heat.”&nbsp;Upham said that many other crops – including squash, cucumbers, watermelon and muskmelon – can experience other problems.&nbsp;“First, the early flowers on these plants are usually all male; the production of male and female flowers becomes more balanced as time passes,” he said. “You can easily tell the difference between the two because only the female flower has a tiny fruit behind the blossom.”&nbsp;Upham said that if gardeners see both male and female flowers, have not fertilized, but still have a problem, it could be that the garden does not have enough pollinators.&nbsp;“Look for the presence of bees visiting the plants,” Upham said. “If you don’t see any, try hand-pollinating several flowers. Use a painter’s brush to transfer pollen from the anther of the male flower to the stigma of the female flower. If you get fruit on any of those flowers you pollinated, you need more pollinators.”&nbsp;Upham also cautioned against the over-use of insecticides, which can kill pollinators. He advises spraying near dusk when flowers have closed.&nbsp;Upham and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

Are your vegetables blooming…but no fruit? 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss noted as part of his Mid-America Business Conditions Index survey released this week that Kansas is doing well in some economic measures, but not in others.

"Wage growth is not as strong in Kansas," Goss said. "If you see business travel begin to increase for Kansas, that will sort itself out. For Kansas, the best news is agriculture and those linked to agriculture are doing very well in Kansas, even there, we've seen some softening in terms of farm income and commodity prices, but that looks pretty good."

Goss notes that it is still hard to parse out the difference between the muscle of good economic growth and the fat of inflation.

"The answer is somewhere in between," Goss said. "The Fed says it is transitory. A lot of folks say it's non-transitory, it's embedded inflation. I think the answer is, it's somewhere between the two. We're looking at inflation now running above four percent. That's double what the Fed is accepting."

Goss noted that Goldman Sachs believes oil prices will still go up from here.

"The Biden administration has taken the approach that, well, the higher price is not such a bad thing, it encourages us to move to alternative energy," Goss said. "They killed the Keystone XL pipeline. That was an $8 to $9 billion investment by the Canadians to ship oil from the tar sands in Canada down through the midsection of the country, also cutting back on drilling on federal land, that's part of the plan, I would argue."

Goss said with regard to one inflationary force, that Republicans will likely save President Biden from himself, in terms of cutting the size of some of his ambitious government expansion plans.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss noted as part of his Mid-America Business Conditions Index survey released this week that Kansas is doing well in some economic measures, but not in others."Wage growth is not as strong in Kansas," Goss said. "If you see business travel begin to increase for Kansas, that will sort itself out. For Kansas, the best news is agriculture and those linked to agriculture are doing very well in Kansas, even there, we've seen some softening in terms of farm income and commodity prices, but that looks pretty good."Goss notes that it is still hard to parse out the difference between the muscle of good economic growth and the fat of inflation."The answer is somewhere in between," Goss said. "The Fed says it is transitory. A lot of folks say it's non-transitory, it's embedded inflation. I think the answer is, it's somewhere between the two. We're looking at inflation now running above four percent. That's double what the Fed is accepting."Goss noted that Goldman Sachs believes oil prices will still go up from here."The Biden administration has taken the approach that, well, the higher price is not such a bad thing, it encourages us to move to alternative energy," Goss said. "They killed the Keystone XL pipeline. That was an $8 to $9 billion investment by the Canadians to ship oil from the tar sands in Canada down through the midsection of the country, also cutting back on drilling on federal land, that's part of the plan, I would argue."Goss said with regard to one inflationary force, that Republicans will likely save President Biden from himself, in terms of cutting the size of some of his ambitious government expansion plans.

Goss: Economy is growing, but faster than the Fed aims for


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel noted that Hutchinson was strengthened in the pandemic because people found what they needed closer to home.

"That return to local is so important," Teufel said. "We preach it every day, shop local, but I think people found the reason to be very deliberate with those patterns during COVID. Maybe that will be the one bright spot that we look back and say, yes, that was a turning point for our community to realize, there are wonderful businesses right here under our nose."

Teufel also said it's going to be a battle to keep our community the same size going forward.

"Population in counties like Reno County will continue to decline unless we are very deliberate about focusing on growth," Teufel said. "We've heard great examples of people that now can work from anywhere and they are choosing Reno County because of the great quality of life that we have. We promote that every day. We need people to be positive and share those positive messages about your kids coming back post college."

Teufel notes that over the last few years, the workforce in Reno County is growing, even though there are still more jobs to be had.

"We are approaching 29,000 people employed here in Reno County," Teufel said. "Four years ago, we were in the 27,000 range. Almost 2,000 more people working here today than were four years ago. That is one ingredient that's putting more pressure on the labor market. We just need more people. We have more jobs open now that we would love to fill and we need people to do that."

There are only about 117 people in Reno County right now receiving the unemployment subsidy, so there are more jobs available than people who are looking for work to fill them.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel noted that Hutchinson was strengthened in the pandemic because people found what they needed closer to home."That return to local is so important," Teufel said. "We preach it every day, shop local, but I think people found the reason to be very deliberate with those patterns during COVID. Maybe that will be the one bright spot that we look back and say, yes, that was a turning point for our community to realize, there are wonderful businesses right here under our nose."Teufel also said it's going to be a battle to keep our community the same size going forward."Population in counties like Reno County will continue to decline unless we are very deliberate about focusing on growth," Teufel said. "We've heard great examples of people that now can work from anywhere and they are choosing Reno County because of the great quality of life that we have. We promote that every day. We need people to be positive and share those positive messages about your kids coming back post college."Teufel notes that over the last few years, the workforce in Reno County is growing, even though there are still more jobs to be had."We are approaching 29,000 people employed here in Reno County," Teufel said. "Four years ago, we were in the 27,000 range. Almost 2,000 more people working here today than were four years ago. That is one ingredient that's putting more pressure on the labor market. We just need more people. We have more jobs open now that we would love to fill and we need people to do that."There are only about 117 people in Reno County right now receiving the unemployment subsidy, so there are more jobs available than people who are looking for work to fill them.

Chamber CEO: Workforce has grown, but there are still jobs


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — If you haven't traveled for awhile due to COVID concerns, Shawn Steward with AAA of Kansas wants to be sure you're prepared for how your stay in a hotel might be different.

"Some hotel chains have adopted different processes, mobile check in, for example," Steward said. "Some guests can bypass the front desk altogether and go straight to their room using their mobile phone to unlock their room door. That just eliminates a touch point an interaction point between that hotel employee and the guest."

There also may be different cleaning protocols during your stay.

"We stayed at one recently, my family, they had a cleaning seal, if you will on the door as you went into the room," Steward said. "I've seen some hotels that I've stayed at over the past year where the TV remote is wrapped in plastic, just to symbolize that, hey, this has been cleaned."

The breakfast at hotels that provide it will likely be different, as well.

"You may see different service levels of buffets versus hotel servers providing breakfasts," Steward said. "Early on in the pandemic, there were really just takeaway bags or boxed breakfasts available."

The important point is to call ahead and find out what the arrangements are where you are staying, so that you can plan around whatever circumstances may be unique to your destination.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625318255826.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy AAA of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy AAA of Kansas</figcaption>
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — If you haven't traveled for awhile due to COVID concerns, Shawn Steward with AAA of Kansas wants to be sure you're prepared for how your stay in a hotel might be different."Some hotel chains have adopted different processes, mobile check in, for example," Steward said. "Some guests can bypass the front desk altogether and go straight to their room using their mobile phone to unlock their room door. That just eliminates a touch point an interaction point between that hotel employee and the guest."There also may be different cleaning protocols during your stay."We stayed at one recently, my family, they had a cleaning seal, if you will on the door as you went into the room," Steward said. "I've seen some hotels that I've stayed at over the past year where the TV remote is wrapped in plastic, just to symbolize that, hey, this has been cleaned."The breakfast at hotels that provide it will likely be different, as well."You may see different service levels of buffets versus hotel servers providing breakfasts," Steward said. "Early on in the pandemic, there were really just takeaway bags or boxed breakfasts available."The important point is to call ahead and find out what the arrangements are where you are staying, so that you can plan around whatever circumstances may be unique to your destination.

AAA: Hotel stays may still be different this summer

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will wrestle with <a href="http://www.hutchgov.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07062021-1149">cuts to the City's budget</a> at its next budget meeting Tuesday.

According to the memorandum published with the agenda from Finance Director Angela Richard, the city has passed the increase in health insurance costs on to the Health and Dental Fund. This will cause the Health and Dental Fund to use $290,557 of reserve balances in 2022. She said in the memo, "This is not something we can continue to do."

There are $221,000 in cuts to CIP projects and $864,800 in cuts to MERF projects. More than $1.8 million has been cut from department operations across the city. Even with those cuts, in the documents provided to the governing body, the ending balance is budgeted at $4,175,009. The goal the governing body would like to get to is two months of expenses, which would be about another $1 million in cuts.

The City's budget meeting is at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will wrestle with <a href="http://www.hutchgov.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07062021-1149">cuts to the City's budget</a> at its next budget meeting Tuesday. According to the memorandum published with the agenda from Finance Director Angela Richard, the city has passed the increase in health insurance costs on to the Health and Dental Fund. This will cause the Health and Dental Fund to use $290,557 of reserve balances in 2022. She said in the memo, "This is not something we can continue to do."There are $221,000 in cuts to CIP projects and $864,800 in cuts to MERF projects. More than $1.8 million has been cut from department operations across the city. Even with those cuts, in the documents provided to the governing body, the ending balance is budgeted at $4,175,009. The goal the governing body would like to get to is two months of expenses, which would be about another $1 million in cuts.The City's budget meeting is at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

City Council to see potential budget cuts at Tuesday afternoon meeting

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 </figure>Click on the Facebook logo to view all pictures. Or follow the links below.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHutchPost%2Fposts%2F5886275388081001&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="645" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><a href="https://m.facebook.com/HutchPost/posts/5886275388081001">CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL SET 1 PICTURES</a>.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHutchPost%2Fposts%2F5886285708079969&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="645" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><a href="https://m.facebook.com/HutchPost/posts/5886285708079969">CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL SET 2 PICTURES</a>.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RXLooC-R8zU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

PHOTO GALLERY: Patriots Parade

2021 Patriots Parade

Reminder: The 2021 Patriots Parade in Hutchinson starts at 10 a.m. on Main Street between Avenue B and 12th.&nbsp;This year's theme is "Celebrating 150 Years of Patriotism" as we recognize the 150th Anniversary of the settling of Reno County!

July 3: Operation Celebration!-Marquette. Kid’s Fishing Tournament, Pedal Pull Competition, Corn Hole Tournament, Pie Eating Contest, Free Swim at the Marquette Pool, Turtle Races, evening BBQ in the park, music, and the 3rd Annual Fireworks Show at Eisenhower Park at dark.&nbsp;

July 3: 10th Annual Firecracker 5K and Festival- at Lynn Baldwin Memorial Park, 100 Northview in Galva. Registration: 6:30 a.m. Race at 7:30 a.m. A family-friendly, flat, paved course suitable for all ages. Home Run Derby at 10 a.m. Supper served 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Bouncy houses, raffles, and corn hole tournament in the evening. Fireworks display at dark.&nbsp;

July 3: Burrton-<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Burrton-4th-of-July-103642088040950"> 4th of July Party in the Park 2021</a>, full day of activities, including 3 on 3 basketball, a parade, concessions and more with fireworks at dusk.

July 4: Sterling-Fireworks at dark cap off <a href="https://www.sterlingkschamber.com/old-fashioned-fourth-of-july">Sterling Old-Fashioned 4th of July</a> all weekend long

July 4: Hutchinson-Kansas State Fairgrounds-Dusk

July 4: North Newton-Kidron Bethel Village-Arrival after 8:30 p.m., fireworks after sundown

July 4: Peabody-4th Fest-100th Annual-events all day, fireworks at dusk

July 4: McPherson-Wall Park, 500 S. Maxwell. Celebrate the Fourth of July with a concert by King Midas &amp; the Muflers starting at 7 p.m., then stick around for a great fireworks display! Sponsored by McPherson CVB and CHS.

If you know of an area 4th celebration, email <a href="http://hutchpost@eagleradio.net">hutchpost@eagleradio.net</a> with details so we can add to our list...

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624632985099.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reminder: The 2021 Patriots Parade in Hutchinson starts at 10 a.m. on Main Street between Avenue B and 12th.&nbsp;This year's theme is "Celebrating 150 Years of Patriotism" as we recognize the 150th Anniversary of the settling of Reno County!Area Public Fireworks DisplaysJuly 3: Operation Celebration!-Marquette. Kid’s Fishing Tournament, Pedal Pull Competition, Corn Hole Tournament, Pie Eating Contest, Free Swim at the Marquette Pool, Turtle Races, evening BBQ in the park, music, and the 3rd Annual Fireworks Show at Eisenhower Park at dark.&nbsp;July 3: 10th Annual Firecracker 5K and Festival- at Lynn Baldwin Memorial Park, 100 Northview in Galva. Registration: 6:30 a.m. Race at 7:30 a.m. A family-friendly, flat, paved course suitable for all ages. Home Run Derby at 10 a.m. Supper served 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Bouncy houses, raffles, and corn hole tournament in the evening. Fireworks display at dark.&nbsp;July 3: Burrton-<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Burrton-4th-of-July-103642088040950"> 4th of July Party in the Park 2021</a>, full day of activities, including 3 on 3 basketball, a parade, concessions and more with fireworks at dusk.July 4: Sterling-Fireworks at dark cap off <a href="https://www.sterlingkschamber.com/old-fashioned-fourth-of-july">Sterling Old-Fashioned 4th of July</a> all weekend longJuly 4: Hutchinson-Kansas State Fairgrounds-DuskJuly 4: North Newton-Kidron Bethel Village-Arrival after 8:30 p.m., fireworks after sundownJuly 4: Peabody-4th Fest-100th Annual-events all day, fireworks at duskJuly 4: McPherson-Wall Park, 500 S. Maxwell. Celebrate the Fourth of July with a concert by King Midas &amp; the Muflers starting at 7 p.m., then stick around for a great fireworks display! Sponsored by McPherson CVB and CHS.If you know of an area 4th celebration, email <a href="http://hutchpost@eagleradio.net">hutchpost@eagleradio.net</a> with details so we can add to our list...

Area public fireworks displays


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will be asked to enter into a Cooperative Agreement with the City of Newton Housing Authority as part of its agenda on Tuesday.

According to the background information provided to the council from Director of Planning and Development Ryan Hvitlok, the Section 8 assistance currently served by North Park Village Apartments is moving to the Commerce Gardens Phase II project. However, those currently living at North Park Village have the option to stay there and continue to receive assistance, if they so choose. The federal program to do this is called Tenant Protection Vouchers.&nbsp;

The agreement is for the City of Newton Housing Authority to administer the Tenant Protection Vouchers for the North Park Village residents who wish to stay. HUD initially reached out to the Hutchinson Housing Authority, housed within the Cowley County Housing Authority and they were unable to handle the request.

Also on the agenda for the City Council is approval of appointments to the Hutchinson Tree Board and the routine reports of the city council members and City Manager Jeff Cantrell. 

The Hutchinson City Council meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will be asked to enter into a Cooperative Agreement with the City of Newton Housing Authority as part of its agenda on Tuesday.According to the background information provided to the council from Director of Planning and Development Ryan Hvitlok, the Section 8 assistance currently served by North Park Village Apartments is moving to the Commerce Gardens Phase II project. However, those currently living at North Park Village have the option to stay there and continue to receive assistance, if they so choose. The federal program to do this is called Tenant Protection Vouchers.&nbsp;The agreement is for the City of Newton Housing Authority to administer the Tenant Protection Vouchers for the North Park Village residents who wish to stay. HUD initially reached out to the Hutchinson Housing Authority, housed within the Cowley County Housing Authority and they were unable to handle the request.Also on the agenda for the City Council is approval of appointments to the Hutchinson Tree Board and the routine reports of the city council members and City Manager Jeff Cantrell. The Hutchinson City Council meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

City Council to look at agreement on HUD vouchers Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — LeAnn Cox with Visit Hutch notes that tourism isn't all the way back to normal, but the numbers are good so far in 2021.

"2020 our occupancy was about 38%, so it was a significant hit for the community," Cox said. "Through the first five months of this year, we're already up to about 43% of hotel occupancy. We're on our way back to getting close to those pre-COVID numbers. It will take a couple of years. It's not something that will just, if we have a good summer, we're there. It will take awhile."

Events like the Kansas Shrine Bowl and the NJCAA tournament have certainly helped, but it's hard to know how quickly individual operators will get back to break-even.

"Of the reporting hotels in Hutchinson, we've been in that mid-50% range for many, many years," Cox said. "Obviously, we would love to grow that. We're working on bringing in new events to try and just do that. If we could get back into those 50s, I think most hoteliers would be way more comfortable."

There is a part of the year where Hutchinson could use some larger events.

"January and February are always months that we can fit a lot of things into the calendar," Cox said. "That's also the time of year that there's not a lot of things to bid on or that are actively looking for a place to call home. That's nationwide."

Cox acknowledges that Hutchinson still has a need for more hotel rooms overall and that the loss of the Atrium Hotel's capacity has made it more challenging to compete for larger events.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — LeAnn Cox with Visit Hutch notes that tourism isn't all the way back to normal, but the numbers are good so far in 2021."2020 our occupancy was about 38%, so it was a significant hit for the community," Cox said. "Through the first five months of this year, we're already up to about 43% of hotel occupancy. We're on our way back to getting close to those pre-COVID numbers. It will take a couple of years. It's not something that will just, if we have a good summer, we're there. It will take awhile."Events like the Kansas Shrine Bowl and the NJCAA tournament have certainly helped, but it's hard to know how quickly individual operators will get back to break-even."Of the reporting hotels in Hutchinson, we've been in that mid-50% range for many, many years," Cox said. "Obviously, we would love to grow that. We're working on bringing in new events to try and just do that. If we could get back into those 50s, I think most hoteliers would be way more comfortable."There is a part of the year where Hutchinson could use some larger events."January and February are always months that we can fit a lot of things into the calendar," Cox said. "That's also the time of year that there's not a lot of things to bid on or that are actively looking for a place to call home. That's nationwide."Cox acknowledges that Hutchinson still has a need for more hotel rooms overall and that the loss of the Atrium Hotel's capacity has made it more challenging to compete for larger events.

Cox says hotel rooms are refilling in 2021

Hutchinson police make two sex crime arrests


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is treating this differently thanks to new equipment.

"What we have recently acquired is a new system that uses large bore catheters and aspiration to actually directly remove these clots from the circulation without giving clot-dissolving medication," said Dr. Michael Hagley, interventional cardiologist.

Hagley explained that the previous approach had additional risks.

"In the past, we had the option of giving clot dissolving medications directly into the blood clot," Hagley said. "That's an approach that has a lot of risk for bleeding. It has marginal effectiveness, because some of these clots have matured and aren't prone to being dissolved easily. It wasn't always easy and sometimes it seemed like the risk-benefit considerations favored more conservative therapy. The problem, if you treat these conservatively and don't get rid of the blood clot is that some people are prone to developing a lot of swelling and sores in the legs and things of that nature long term as an aftermath. It's difficult to predict up front who will develop those problems and who won't."

The new procedure doesn't take as long, either.

"Patients typically would have to lay on their abdomen," said Aubrey Nuss, director of the Heart and Vascular Center at Hutchinson Regional. "They were uncomfortable. Sometimes it would take up to six hours, where these procedures now are probably about an hour, which is about the same time frame as a heart cath or maybe a little bit longer. For them, it is a much easier procedure with better outcomes."

Hagley said the new treatment has changed the entire paradigm for how deep vein thrombosis should be treated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583428390224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is treating this differently thanks to new equipment."What we have recently acquired is a new system that uses large bore catheters and aspiration to actually directly remove these clots from the circulation without giving clot-dissolving medication," said Dr. Michael Hagley, interventional cardiologist.Hagley explained that the previous approach had additional risks."In the past, we had the option of giving clot dissolving medications directly into the blood clot," Hagley said. "That's an approach that has a lot of risk for bleeding. It has marginal effectiveness, because some of these clots have matured and aren't prone to being dissolved easily. It wasn't always easy and sometimes it seemed like the risk-benefit considerations favored more conservative therapy. The problem, if you treat these conservatively and don't get rid of the blood clot is that some people are prone to developing a lot of swelling and sores in the legs and things of that nature long term as an aftermath. It's difficult to predict up front who will develop those problems and who won't."The new procedure doesn't take as long, either."Patients typically would have to lay on their abdomen," said Aubrey Nuss, director of the Heart and Vascular Center at Hutchinson Regional. "They were uncomfortable. Sometimes it would take up to six hours, where these procedures now are probably about an hour, which is about the same time frame as a heart cath or maybe a little bit longer. For them, it is a much easier procedure with better outcomes."Hagley said the new treatment has changed the entire paradigm for how deep vein thrombosis should be treated.

HRMC using new treatment for deep vein thrombosis


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Governor Laura Kelly announced Thursday that more Kansas families will now be eligible to take advantage of the Hero Relief Child Care Assistance Program.

"We are hopeful to see families who are struggling with paying for child care to be able to meet that need," said Denice Gilliland-Burbank with the United Way of Reno County. "With this new policy of raising the income limits to 250% of federal poverty, a family of four, if they are making less than $5485 a month, they could qualify for child care assistance."

Gilliland-Burbank does note that there is still a child care supply issue locally.

"Especially with our infants and young toddlers, supply is an issue," Gilliland-Burbank said. "There is a lack of childcare availability."

This program is available to families who need child care for employment as long as the adults in the household are employed an average of 20 hours a week. 

"The site at <a href="http://ksherorelief.com">ksherorelief.com</a> actually has quite a bit of information," Gilliland-Burbank said. "Families can apply for benefits. They can see if they qualify. There are some links that families can follow, if they are curious, to learn more."

DCF, in partnership with Child Care Aware of Kansas, is also launching the Child Care Sustainability Grant program to aid child care providers in meeting the costs of operating their business. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625168698279.jpeg" alt="Denice Gilliland Burbank United Way of Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Denice Gilliland Burbank United Way of Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Governor Laura Kelly announced Thursday that more Kansas families will now be eligible to take advantage of the Hero Relief Child Care Assistance Program."We are hopeful to see families who are struggling with paying for child care to be able to meet that need," said Denice Gilliland-Burbank with the United Way of Reno County. "With this new policy of raising the income limits to 250% of federal poverty, a family of four, if they are making less than $5485 a month, they could qualify for child care assistance."Gilliland-Burbank does note that there is still a child care supply issue locally."Especially with our infants and young toddlers, supply is an issue," Gilliland-Burbank said. "There is a lack of childcare availability."This program is available to families who need child care for employment as long as the adults in the household are employed an average of 20 hours a week. "The site at <a href="http://ksherorelief.com">ksherorelief.com</a> actually has quite a bit of information," Gilliland-Burbank said. "Families can apply for benefits. They can see if they qualify. There are some links that families can follow, if they are curious, to learn more."DCF, in partnership with Child Care Aware of Kansas, is also launching the Child Care Sustainability Grant program to aid child care providers in meeting the costs of operating their business.

United Way staffer hopeful about expansion of child care assistance program


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Shawna Logue with the Salvation Army explained how her work with Pathways of Hope helps get those in need back on their feet again.

"My role is kind of between the crisis and the thriving," Logue said. "I get them back to stable so that they are able to pay their bills and not stress and not have to go back to begging, basically."

A big key to that is helping those that can work get in position to get more training so they can make more money.

"We can look at budgeting, that kind of thing," Logue said. "I also look at certifications from, like Allied Health and the college. As far as other things, like legal matters, I don't touch that, because I'm not a lawyer, but I know who to refer them to and sometimes we like help pay for the lawyer or like expungements, if it's only a certain amount, we can help pay for those so that they can get on to a better path."

Logue said its important for those she serves to know that they need to continue to grow their income to become self-sufficient, even if it costs them something in the short run.

"There's like a $13 to $18 range per hour, when somebody's in there, that's where the cliff effect happens and they lose the benefits, but they're not really making enough to get past that point," Logue said. "A lot of times, one emergency and they are in trouble."

Logue said the expansion of her job to full-time has just helped her to serve more of the people who already needed help, she has filled up her intended caseload of 40 families already.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564176522240.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Shawna Logue with the Salvation Army explained how her work with Pathways of Hope helps get those in need back on their feet again."My role is kind of between the crisis and the thriving," Logue said. "I get them back to stable so that they are able to pay their bills and not stress and not have to go back to begging, basically."A big key to that is helping those that can work get in position to get more training so they can make more money."We can look at budgeting, that kind of thing," Logue said. "I also look at certifications from, like Allied Health and the college. As far as other things, like legal matters, I don't touch that, because I'm not a lawyer, but I know who to refer them to and sometimes we like help pay for the lawyer or like expungements, if it's only a certain amount, we can help pay for those so that they can get on to a better path."Logue said its important for those she serves to know that they need to continue to grow their income to become self-sufficient, even if it costs them something in the short run."There's like a $13 to $18 range per hour, when somebody's in there, that's where the cliff effect happens and they lose the benefits, but they're not really making enough to get past that point," Logue said. "A lot of times, one emergency and they are in trouble."Logue said the expansion of her job to full-time has just helped her to serve more of the people who already needed help, she has filled up her intended caseload of 40 families already.

Pathways of Hope program helping get those in need stability


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Behavioral Health Unit at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center (HRMC) reopens today following an extensive remodel.

Wes Hoyt, Chief Operating Officer for Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS), said the $400,000 four-month project on the hospital’s third floor included a major update to each of the rooms in the 14-bed unit along with the addition of a small conference room, public bathroom and expanded laundry facilities. The unit was temporarily closed on March 10th to allow construction crews full access to the premises. Behavior Health staff were reassigned to the hospital’s Emergency Department for the short term to maintain continuation of care for psychiatric patients until they could be referred to area facilities.

Liz Mansur, Director of Behavioral Health at HRMC, said the remodel included a complete rebuild of the unit’s nursing station to provide a more open and inviting environment while increasing safety. “Hutchinson Regional is one of a few hospitals in Kansas with a Behavioral Health Unit within the hospital, so it is not uncommon to receive patients from throughout the state and we are eager to start accepting patients again”, Mansur said. “Other changes effective with the reopening include updated decor, expanded therapy sessions from five to seven days per week and additional support staff to provide behavioral health services.”

The remodel was the result of a study conducted by Hutchinson Regional staff on how to take behavioral health to a new level of service which included discussions with the Joint Commission (JC), an international accreditation organization that certifies best practices for providing care. The JC offered suggestions for improving care which were included in the remodel.

A staff of 26 Hutchinson Regional employees will manage the Behavioral Health Unit at HRMC in cooperation with psychiatric providers from Horizons Mental Health Center.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Behavioral Health Unit at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center (HRMC) reopens today following an extensive remodel.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625152861684.jpeg" alt="Hutch Regional BHU 1" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Regional BHU 1</figcaption>
 </figure>Wes Hoyt, Chief Operating Officer for Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS), said the $400,000 four-month project on the hospital’s third floor included a major update to each of the rooms in the 14-bed unit along with the addition of a small conference room, public bathroom and expanded laundry facilities. The unit was temporarily closed on March 10th to allow construction crews full access to the premises. Behavior Health staff were reassigned to the hospital’s Emergency Department for the short term to maintain continuation of care for psychiatric patients until they could be referred to area facilities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625152889780.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Liz Mansur, Director of Behavioral Health at HRMC, said the remodel included a complete rebuild of the unit’s nursing station to provide a more open and inviting environment while increasing safety. “Hutchinson Regional is one of a few hospitals in Kansas with a Behavioral Health Unit within the hospital, so it is not uncommon to receive patients from throughout the state and we are eager to start accepting patients again”, Mansur said. “Other changes effective with the reopening include updated decor, expanded therapy sessions from five to seven days per week and additional support staff to provide behavioral health services.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625152913978.jpeg" alt="Hutch Regional BHU 3" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Regional BHU 3</figcaption>
 </figure>The remodel was the result of a study conducted by Hutchinson Regional staff on how to take behavioral health to a new level of service which included discussions with the Joint Commission (JC), an international accreditation organization that certifies best practices for providing care. The JC offered suggestions for improving care which were included in the remodel.A staff of 26 Hutchinson Regional employees will manage the Behavioral Health Unit at HRMC in cooperation with psychiatric providers from Horizons Mental Health Center.

HRMC Behavioral Health Unit reopens after $400,000 remodel


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman notes that even though, thanks to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, lunches for kids for the upcoming school year are free, districts in Kansas still need the information that would normally come from the free and reduced lunch application.

"The state department of education has come out with what they call a Home Economic Survey," said Couchman. "They call it the HES for short, that schools are to give our community and our student's families to replace the free and reduced meal application."

There are some questions on that survey that they are required to answer.

"It's so important that we have our families fill those questions out," Couchman said. "Those questions are different. Instead of giving us a range, they have to answer two very specific questions. One of them is how many students are under your household, the next question is, how much is your household income?"

Those can be tough questions to answer if you have a variable income and are not prepared for them, so Couchman is considering speaking to her administrators about strategies they can use to get more parents to fill out the new form.

"If you qualify using the Home Economic Survey, it used to be the free and reduced application, you have lower enrollment fees, you have lower technology fees, our Cares Club and Shining Stars programs, which is our after school care program and then also our in school program for pre-k, those are reduced," Couchman said. "The food backpack program that we send food home on Fridays with, that's also based upon that. Then, we also use that information to help in other areas, if the families give permission to share it. You can get like, internet access fees reduced through the emergency broadband benefit, there's childcare credit. It just keeps going on and on in how we use it. The main thing that helps us right now, that benefits the school district and in turnaround, really does benefit our families, is it's how our federal at-risk dollars are figured."

That money helps fund counselor salaries and paraprofessionals as well as class size reduction and the pre-k program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625156550797.jpeg" alt="Cindy Couchman USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Couchman USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman notes that even though, thanks to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, lunches for kids for the upcoming school year are free, districts in Kansas still need the information that would normally come from the free and reduced lunch application."The state department of education has come out with what they call a Home Economic Survey," said Couchman. "They call it the HES for short, that schools are to give our community and our student's families to replace the free and reduced meal application."There are some questions on that survey that they are required to answer."It's so important that we have our families fill those questions out," Couchman said. "Those questions are different. Instead of giving us a range, they have to answer two very specific questions. One of them is how many students are under your household, the next question is, how much is your household income?"Those can be tough questions to answer if you have a variable income and are not prepared for them, so Couchman is considering speaking to her administrators about strategies they can use to get more parents to fill out the new form."If you qualify using the Home Economic Survey, it used to be the free and reduced application, you have lower enrollment fees, you have lower technology fees, our Cares Club and Shining Stars programs, which is our after school care program and then also our in school program for pre-k, those are reduced," Couchman said. "The food backpack program that we send food home on Fridays with, that's also based upon that. Then, we also use that information to help in other areas, if the families give permission to share it. You can get like, internet access fees reduced through the emergency broadband benefit, there's childcare credit. It just keeps going on and on in how we use it. The main thing that helps us right now, that benefits the school district and in turnaround, really does benefit our families, is it's how our federal at-risk dollars are figured."That money helps fund counselor salaries and paraprofessionals as well as class size reduction and the pre-k program.

Couchman: New form for low-income parents to fill out this year


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
 More than two dozen development staff and fundraising professionals gathered at Hutchinson Community College June 15-16 for a two-day conference to share ideas, hear from other professionals and network.

Representatives from 17 community and technical colleges in Kansas met at the Richard and Jack Parker Student Union on the Hutchinson Community College campus.

“This was an opportunity for us to build relationships with our colleagues and know we all face the same challenges,” stated Cindy Keast, Director of the HutchCC Endowment Association. “Bringing all this outstanding talent to one spot was invaluable and a fantastic learning experience.”

Attendees from multiple community and technical colleges presented on topics covering alumni relationships and an independent consultant also presented to the group.

The group will continue to hold the conference annually, with the location rotating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
 More than two dozen development staff and fundraising professionals gathered at Hutchinson Community College June 15-16 for a two-day conference to share ideas, hear from other professionals and network.Representatives from 17 community and technical colleges in Kansas met at the Richard and Jack Parker Student Union on the Hutchinson Community College campus.“This was an opportunity for us to build relationships with our colleagues and know we all face the same challenges,” stated Cindy Keast, Director of the HutchCC Endowment Association. “Bringing all this outstanding talent to one spot was invaluable and a fantastic learning experience.”Attendees from multiple community and technical colleges presented on topics covering alumni relationships and an independent consultant also presented to the group.The group will continue to hold the conference annually, with the location rotating.

Development staff, fundraising professionals meet at HutchCC


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners wants any feedback they are getting from community stakeholders about spending of federal funds to come to them sooner than later.

"They originally told us they'd have something back in 60 days," Ron Sellers said Tuesday. "I thought that was way too short to have good thoughts back, but now they haven't even decided how to proceed. I think that they need to get with it and make something happen and get a report, or at least an interim report back to us by the end of August or shortly thereafter. If they can't move somewhat quickly, I don't see the relevance of that group moving at all."

Sellers comments were prompted by a question from Commissioner Daniel Friesen on how the process was going and if they could get any work product from the group soon. County Administrator Randy Partington who has been attending their meetings told the commission that they are waiting on final guidance from the U.S. Treasury Department before making their recommendations.

"They're still working on putting the process together," Partington said. "They're working with Kansas State University, some professors, on kind of overseeing, kind of convening some of these meetings with up to, I believe 60 stakeholder groups or special interest groups throughout the entire county."

The next meeting is scheduled for July 16. Ultimately, it will be up to the governing bodies that receive funds to make final decisions on how it is spent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624541123020.jpeg" alt="Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners wants any feedback they are getting from community stakeholders about spending of federal funds to come to them sooner than later."They originally told us they'd have something back in 60 days," Ron Sellers said Tuesday. "I thought that was way too short to have good thoughts back, but now they haven't even decided how to proceed. I think that they need to get with it and make something happen and get a report, or at least an interim report back to us by the end of August or shortly thereafter. If they can't move somewhat quickly, I don't see the relevance of that group moving at all."Sellers comments were prompted by a question from Commissioner Daniel Friesen on how the process was going and if they could get any work product from the group soon. County Administrator Randy Partington who has been attending their meetings told the commission that they are waiting on final guidance from the U.S. Treasury Department before making their recommendations."They're still working on putting the process together," Partington said. "They're working with Kansas State University, some professors, on kind of overseeing, kind of convening some of these meetings with up to, I believe 60 stakeholder groups or special interest groups throughout the entire county."The next meeting is scheduled for July 16. Ultimately, it will be up to the governing bodies that receive funds to make final decisions on how it is spent.

County Commission wants stakeholder group to get rolling before spending federal money

WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 60 months in prison for his role as getaway driver in an armed gas station robbery, according to the United States Attorney.

In April 2021, Jeremiah Urias, 19, of Wichita pleaded guilty to one count of robbery.

According to court documents, Urias was charged in connection with the robbery of an EZ Trip gas station in Newton, Kansas, in February of 2020. Urias waited in the vehicle while two accomplices entered the business and demanded money from the clerk at gunpoint. 

After Urias and his accomplices drove away from the scene, a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper spotted the vehicle and a high speed chase ensued. The chase ended when Urias’ vehicle was involved in an accident with another vehicle. Urias then fled on foot. The two accomplices remained in the vehicle after the accident and were arrested, and Urias was eventually captured by law enforcement.

“We want to make it clear to all persons who willingly participate in crimes that they can be subject to prosecution no matter their role,” said Acting U.S Attorney Duston Slinkard. “Although the defendant may not have personally entered the business or pointed a gun at the employee, he was still responsible for participating in the robbery, and the court held him accountable.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580826387253.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the crash and arrest on Magnolia in Salina -photo courtesy KHP" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the crash and arrest on Magnolia in Salina -photo courtesy KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 60 months in prison for his role as getaway driver in an armed gas station robbery, according to the United States Attorney.In April 2021, Jeremiah Urias, 19, of Wichita pleaded guilty to one count of robbery.According to court documents, Urias was charged in connection with the robbery of an EZ Trip gas station in Newton, Kansas, in February of 2020. Urias waited in the vehicle while two accomplices entered the business and demanded money from the clerk at gunpoint. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581099636176.png" alt="Urias photo Harvey Co. " />
 <figcaption>Urias photo Harvey Co. </figcaption>
 </figure>After Urias and his accomplices drove away from the scene, a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper spotted the vehicle and a high speed chase ensued. The chase ended when Urias’ vehicle was involved in an accident with another vehicle. Urias then fled on foot. The two accomplices remained in the vehicle after the accident and were arrested, and Urias was eventually captured by law enforcement.“We want to make it clear to all persons who willingly participate in crimes that they can be subject to prosecution no matter their role,” said Acting U.S Attorney Duston Slinkard. “Although the defendant may not have personally entered the business or pointed a gun at the employee, he was still responsible for participating in the robbery, and the court held him accountable.”

Getaway driver sentenced for Newton robbery


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Jim Robb with the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale is glad they are able to have the event, even if it is later in the year than usual.

"We took a look at the trends and vaccinations and all that," Robb said. "The best advice we got was later on would be better, be safer and we were able to work out an agreement with the State Fair to be able to move it from April to July."

Much of the event will be the same, but there will be some vendors that are not there this year.

"With the fact that it's in July and could be potentially very warm, I think we're going to luck out and get some pretty decent temperatures, but it could have been like last week," Robb said. "Anything that involved a tremendous amount of heat in preparation of food, some of those committees just opted to sit this one out because it was too dangerous for them to be working over deep fat frying kinds of things."

Around 70 Kansas Mennonite, Brethren in Christ and Amish congregations join together—utilizing an all-volunteer staff--to organize, donate items and funds to make the sale possible.

KMRS offers 24 hours of bidding on quilts, vehicles, antique tractors and handcrafted wood items, purchasing crafted items, activities for kids and a variety of foods to enjoy.

This year’s sale features six diverse auctions, children's activities, international and local crafts, and a carry-out meal served Friday and Saturday that features Verenike and German Sausage.

A 5K Run for Relief is scheduled Saturday morning at 8 a.m. at Rice Park. Entry forms are available at <a href="http://www.kansas.mccsale.org">www.kansas.mccsale.org</a>.

Auction items open for viewing at 4 p.m. Friday, July 2 along with the sale of priced items and food booths. 

The Silent Auction opens bidding at 5 p.m. in Sunflower South Building. 

The sale continues on Saturday with the sale of priced items at 8 a.m. and the Silent Auction reopens bidding at 8 a.m. while the General and Quilt auctions start at 8:45 a.m. 

Also, two additional auctions are scheduled in the Pride of Kansas Building. They include an auction for the kids at 10 a.m. and a Memorabilia Auction at 11 a.m. The weekend concludes with the Surplus Auction in Sunflower South starting about 2:30 p.m. 

A full schedule and pictures of auction items are available at <a href="http://kansas.mccsale.org">kansas.mccsale.org</a>.

The sale is the second largest annual event scheduled at the Fairgrounds.

All are welcome to attend the sale. Admission and parking are free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625070821925.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Jim Robb with the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale is glad they are able to have the event, even if it is later in the year than usual."We took a look at the trends and vaccinations and all that," Robb said. "The best advice we got was later on would be better, be safer and we were able to work out an agreement with the State Fair to be able to move it from April to July."Much of the event will be the same, but there will be some vendors that are not there this year."With the fact that it's in July and could be potentially very warm, I think we're going to luck out and get some pretty decent temperatures, but it could have been like last week," Robb said. "Anything that involved a tremendous amount of heat in preparation of food, some of those committees just opted to sit this one out because it was too dangerous for them to be working over deep fat frying kinds of things."Around 70 Kansas Mennonite, Brethren in Christ and Amish congregations join together—utilizing an all-volunteer staff--to organize, donate items and funds to make the sale possible.KMRS offers 24 hours of bidding on quilts, vehicles, antique tractors and handcrafted wood items, purchasing crafted items, activities for kids and a variety of foods to enjoy.This year’s sale features six diverse auctions, children's activities, international and local crafts, and a carry-out meal served Friday and Saturday that features Verenike and German Sausage.A 5K Run for Relief is scheduled Saturday morning at 8 a.m. at Rice Park. Entry forms are available at <a href="http://www.kansas.mccsale.org">www.kansas.mccsale.org</a>.Auction items open for viewing at 4 p.m. Friday, July 2 along with the sale of priced items and food booths. The Silent Auction opens bidding at 5 p.m. in Sunflower South Building. The sale continues on Saturday with the sale of priced items at 8 a.m. and the Silent Auction reopens bidding at 8 a.m. while the General and Quilt auctions start at 8:45 a.m. Also, two additional auctions are scheduled in the Pride of Kansas Building. They include an auction for the kids at 10 a.m. and a Memorabilia Auction at 11 a.m. The weekend concludes with the Surplus Auction in Sunflower South starting about 2:30 p.m. A full schedule and pictures of auction items are available at <a href="http://kansas.mccsale.org">kansas.mccsale.org</a>.The sale is the second largest annual event scheduled at the Fairgrounds.All are welcome to attend the sale. Admission and parking are free.

Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale moved to this weekend


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Miss Kansas pageant is coming up in July in Pratt.

"We have preliminary competitions Thursday July 8 and Friday July 9," said Stephanie Harris with the Miss Kansas organization. "The finals are on July 10. We don't have as many tickets as we normally do this year, so I encourage people to get on to misskansas.org. The link to our ticket purchasing site is right there. Also, we are going to live webcast preliminaries and finals, so if you can't make the drive to Pratt and want to watch it in the luxury of our own home, you may."

The qualifiers for the scholarship program come from all over the state.

"This is a unique year," Harris said. "These candidates have now held their titles for now two years due to the pandemic. In the fall of 2019, throughout that year and the winter of 2020, we had what we call local competitions and those are held in various communities across the state at different times of the year. The candidates go and they compete at those locals and when they win a local title, they advance on to the state competition in Pratt."

Contestants must be a high school graduate by the time of the state competition and between the ages of 17 and 25.

"The winner of the Miss Kansas competition will go on to compete for the title of Miss America," Harris said. "That will be held in December of this year in Connecticut at the Mohegan Sun."

Miss America 1997, Tara Dawn Holland was the last Miss Kansas to go on to win the Miss America title.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625063757400.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Miss Kansas Organization" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Miss Kansas Organization</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Miss Kansas pageant is coming up in July in Pratt."We have preliminary competitions Thursday July 8 and Friday July 9," said Stephanie Harris with the Miss Kansas organization. "The finals are on July 10. We don't have as many tickets as we normally do this year, so I encourage people to get on to misskansas.org. The link to our ticket purchasing site is right there. Also, we are going to live webcast preliminaries and finals, so if you can't make the drive to Pratt and want to watch it in the luxury of our own home, you may."The qualifiers for the scholarship program come from all over the state."This is a unique year," Harris said. "These candidates have now held their titles for now two years due to the pandemic. In the fall of 2019, throughout that year and the winter of 2020, we had what we call local competitions and those are held in various communities across the state at different times of the year. The candidates go and they compete at those locals and when they win a local title, they advance on to the state competition in Pratt."Contestants must be a high school graduate by the time of the state competition and between the ages of 17 and 25."The winner of the Miss Kansas competition will go on to compete for the title of Miss America," Harris said. "That will be held in December of this year in Connecticut at the Mohegan Sun."Miss America 1997, Tara Dawn Holland was the last Miss Kansas to go on to win the Miss America title.

Miss Kansas for 'unique year' coming up in Pratt


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Dillon Nature Center is hosting a special Family Adventure Camp on Saturday, July 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate 50 years of the camp. 

This come-and-go anniversary event features canoeing, fishing, archery, arts and crafts, and nature hikes. During the lunch hour families will hear tales from summers past, including the Charlie the Catfish stories. A special 50th anniversary shirt and lunch is included in the fee.

Registration is $50 per family for up to four members. Additional family members are $10 each. Register online at hutchrec.com or in person at Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th Ave. prior to event day.

Adventure Camp has five sessions each summer for youth ages 5 through 12 years old. In 2020, Dillon Nature Center expanded to offer a Preschool Adventure Camp for 3 to 5 year olds.

Dillon Nature Center is operated by Hutch Rec and is located at 3002 E. 30th Ave.

For more information on the nature center and its activities, visit <a href="http://dillonnaturecenter.com">dillonnaturecenter.com</a> and Dillon Nature Center on Facebook and Instagram.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625053005531.jpeg" alt="DillonNatureCenter Photo Courtesy Hutch Rec" />
 <figcaption>DillonNatureCenter Photo Courtesy Hutch Rec</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Dillon Nature Center is hosting a special Family Adventure Camp on Saturday, July 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate 50 years of the camp. This come-and-go anniversary event features canoeing, fishing, archery, arts and crafts, and nature hikes. During the lunch hour families will hear tales from summers past, including the Charlie the Catfish stories. A special 50th anniversary shirt and lunch is included in the fee.Registration is $50 per family for up to four members. Additional family members are $10 each. Register online at hutchrec.com or in person at Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th Ave. prior to event day.Adventure Camp has five sessions each summer for youth ages 5 through 12 years old. In 2020, Dillon Nature Center expanded to offer a Preschool Adventure Camp for 3 to 5 year olds.Dillon Nature Center is operated by Hutch Rec and is located at 3002 E. 30th Ave.For more information on the nature center and its activities, visit <a href="http://dillonnaturecenter.com">dillonnaturecenter.com</a> and Dillon Nature Center on Facebook and Instagram.

Anniversary edition of Family Adventure Camp July 10

A previous version of this story took the word of County Counselor Joe O'Sullivan as to the procedure regarding appointment of new commissioners should the commission expand to five members. That statute has changed as of 2017 and the story is being corrected to amend that fact.


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners plans to bring the idea of whether or not to expand their membership to five to a head at their next meeting July 13. One concern raised by Commissioner Daniel Friesen had to do with who fills the commission seats once they are created.

"Who will be appointing the interim commissioners is an important consideration," Friesen said. "I think, generally speaking, if you look at our recent elections and so forth, I don't know that the majority of the county would agree with the governor picking their two new commissioners, either."

According to an email from County Administrator Randy Partington, the statute regarding the addition of new commissioners has changed in 2017. Quoting from Partington's email , "K.S.A. 19-203a in the statutes states that within  five days of certification of the election approving the expansion, the Governor will, in consultation with the board of county commissioners, declare either that the election (to fill the vacancy) will occur at the next general election OR declare the date of a special election."

Friesen's concern at the time appeared to be that even if the idea of having five commissioners is a good one, the political concerns raised by having a governor that a majority of Reno County didn't vote for filling commission seats may doom any vote of the public and not accurately reflect the merits of the overall idea. 

In 2018, Governor Laura Kelly lost Reno County by more than 1000 votes to Republican nominee, Kris Kobach, but won a majority of the rest of the state. With the change in statute given to Hutch Post after the meeting, that concern may well have been alleviated. Commissioner Ron Hirst also expressed a concern of creating a divide between the urban and rural parts of the county, but he really wants more public input on the idea.

"Just naturally, some are a little adverse to change," Hirst said. "I'm not necessarily, adverse to change, especially when it's going to, in my opinion, strengthen," Hirst said. 

However, he hasn't heard from constituents other than isolated comments as to whether it is their belief that it will strengthen the commission. Commissioner Ron Sellers is for putting the idea before the voters and giving them a chance to tell the commission what they want that way.

"Our job is to provide insight into direction, maybe decide if we approve a courthouse or things of this nature, but it's not to say we buy a road grader that's already funded and so forth," Sellers said. "Our job is more of a job to give long-term direction to the administrator and let him run the county. I feel strongly, you guys know this, that five of us can do a better job of giving that person ideas than three can."

As to what a specific map of new districts would look like, that has been set aside until the final decision is made on whether or not to bring the question in the first place.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624984505097.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A previous version of this story took the word of County Counselor Joe O'Sullivan as to the procedure regarding appointment of new commissioners should the commission expand to five members. That statute has changed as of 2017 and the story is being corrected to amend that fact.
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners plans to bring the idea of whether or not to expand their membership to five to a head at their next meeting July 13. One concern raised by Commissioner Daniel Friesen had to do with who fills the commission seats once they are created."Who will be appointing the interim commissioners is an important consideration," Friesen said. "I think, generally speaking, if you look at our recent elections and so forth, I don't know that the majority of the county would agree with the governor picking their two new commissioners, either."According to an email from County Administrator Randy Partington, the statute regarding the addition of new commissioners has changed in 2017. Quoting from Partington's email , "K.S.A. 19-203a in the statutes states that within five days of certification of the election approving the expansion, the Governor will, in consultation with the board of county commissioners, declare either that the election (to fill the vacancy) will occur at the next general election OR declare the date of a special election."Friesen's concern at the time appeared to be that even if the idea of having five commissioners is a good one, the political concerns raised by having a governor that a majority of Reno County didn't vote for filling commission seats may doom any vote of the public and not accurately reflect the merits of the overall idea. In 2018, Governor Laura Kelly lost Reno County by more than 1000 votes to Republican nominee, Kris Kobach, but won a majority of the rest of the state. With the change in statute given to Hutch Post after the meeting, that concern may well have been alleviated. Commissioner Ron Hirst also expressed a concern of creating a divide between the urban and rural parts of the county, but he really wants more public input on the idea."Just naturally, some are a little adverse to change," Hirst said. "I'm not necessarily, adverse to change, especially when it's going to, in my opinion, strengthen," Hirst said. However, he hasn't heard from constituents other than isolated comments as to whether it is their belief that it will strengthen the commission. Commissioner Ron Sellers is for putting the idea before the voters and giving them a chance to tell the commission what they want that way."Our job is to provide insight into direction, maybe decide if we approve a courthouse or things of this nature, but it's not to say we buy a road grader that's already funded and so forth," Sellers said. "Our job is more of a job to give long-term direction to the administrator and let him run the county. I feel strongly, you guys know this, that five of us can do a better job of giving that person ideas than three can."As to what a specific map of new districts would look like, that has been set aside until the final decision is made on whether or not to bring the question in the first place.

Commissioners talk through expansion concerns, will vote July 13


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Gas prices for the holiday weekend will be higher than they have been in a long time for the 4th of July.

"Here in Kansas, we're looking at $2.87 on average," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's up about four cents in the past week, but still, as we usually are, we're 10th cheapest in the nation."

Prices are even a little better than that in Reno County.

"Reno County is at $2.84 a gallon," Steward said. "Three cents less than the statewide average."

Don't plan on any relief in the near future, either.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624997500436.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Gas prices for the holiday weekend will be higher than they have been in a long time for the 4th of July."Here in Kansas, we're looking at $2.87 on average," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's up about four cents in the past week, but still, as we usually are, we're 10th cheapest in the nation."Prices are even a little better than that in Reno County."Reno County is at $2.84 a gallon," Steward said. "Three cents less than the statewide average."Don't plan on any relief in the near future, either."The expectation is that gas prices are going to stay high and maybe see some additional increases throughout the summer, because of the demand out there," Steward said. "The expectation is that crude oil prices will stay high."The last time the national average was over $3 a gallon for Independence Day was in 2014.

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