
WICHITA — Though no official advisories are issued for Thursday, the National Weather Service office in Wichita did note that heat index values are likely to reach or top 100 degrees in much of the state.

Please check on small children and pets and be sure plenty of water is available if doing outdoor activities Thursday afternoon. 

Thursday will be the hottest feeling day so far in 2021, but it should be short-lived, with conditions improving on Friday.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623322187000.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
WICHITA — Though no official advisories are issued for Thursday, the National Weather Service office in Wichita did note that heat index values are likely to reach or top 100 degrees in much of the state.Please check on small children and pets and be sure plenty of water is available if doing outdoor activities Thursday afternoon. Thursday will be the hottest feeling day so far in 2021, but it should be short-lived, with conditions improving on Friday.

Heat and humidity combine for dangerous Thursday conditions

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — She started it as a planetarium with a rattlesnake and a moon rock on display in its early days. Now the Cosmosphere is one of the premier space and science museums in the world. Patty Carey would have turned 100 years old on Wednesday.&nbsp;

In 1962, fueled by her lifelong interest in science, Patty Brooks Carey established Kansas’ first planetarium located in a poultry building on the grounds of the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson. It was a humble beginning that has blossomed into an internationally recognized, Smithsonian-affiliated institution known as the Cosmosphere.&nbsp;

In a release, the Cosmosphere stated that we owe it all to the vision, determination and grace of one incredible woman. Although Patty died in 2003, her dream continues thanks to others who are as passionate as she was about science education and sharing the wonder of space.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623273450033.jpeg" alt="Patty Carey poses at the door of the planetarium that was originally at the Kansas State Fair." />
 <figcaption>Patty Carey poses at the door of the planetarium that was originally at the Kansas State Fair.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — She started it as a planetarium with a rattlesnake and a moon rock on display in its early days. Now the Cosmosphere is one of the premier space and science museums in the world. Patty Carey would have turned 100 years old on Wednesday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583784421934.jpeg" alt="Today, Patty Carey's love and vision has evolved into the Cosmosphere that is now one of the great museums telling the history of space flight." />
 <figcaption>Today, Patty Carey's love and vision has evolved into the Cosmosphere that is now one of the great museums telling the history of space flight.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1962, fueled by her lifelong interest in science, Patty Brooks Carey established Kansas’ first planetarium located in a poultry building on the grounds of the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson. It was a humble beginning that has blossomed into an internationally recognized, Smithsonian-affiliated institution known as the Cosmosphere.&nbsp;In a release, the Cosmosphere stated that we owe it all to the vision, determination and grace of one incredible woman. Although Patty died in 2003, her dream continues thanks to others who are as passionate as she was about science education and sharing the wonder of space.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Patty Carey would have been 100 Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As Amtrak continues to push for what it sees as the biggest opportunity to expand service in its 50 years of existence, a meeting was held Tuesday with local officials, Sen. Jerry Moran and Amtrak leadership about extending the Heartland Flyer route from Oklahoma City to Newton. Under the proposal, Amtrak would expand service from Oklahoma City to Fort Worth, Texas, three times per day while offering the one train per day to Newton.

“What’s been inspiring to us at Amtrak is the support and interest that exists across the country to expand our service, particularly service such as the Heartland Flyer,” Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn said. “We face a series of challenges today. There’s a global climate crisis, increased congestion on our roads and driving time and time in the air. Our country needs a transportation system that offers frequent, reliable and a sustainable alternative to driving and flying.”

One of those attending the meeting was Sen. Jerry Moran, who has been a longtime proponent of Amtrak. He says the route is important not only for cities like Wichita, but for the Southwest Chief, which serves Kansas.

“The investment extending the Heartland Flyer would be invaluable to Kansans,” Moran said. “Also invaluable to the Southwest Chief with its stop in Newton and what a difference that will make in the ridership of that long-distance route.”

One local leader who has been pushing hard for Amtrak expansion is current Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy, who echoed Moran's comments.

“Some pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, the Southwest Chief for the entire line served approximately 340,000 customers,” McElroy said. “That’s about 2% more than in 2018.”

McElroy says Amtrak's claims of increasing passenger service by as much as 200,000 passengers per year would be a big lift to Newton and the Chief. He says the city would be happy to accommodate them.

“This additional 100,000 . . . 200,000 riders is a very significant number,” McElroy said. “We have the ability to service those folks as they interchange in Newton. We would definitely need to add some community amenities, but we are poised and prepared for that kind of ridership.”

Like most expansion plans, Amtrak would ask cities and states that the expansion would serve to help with funding needs to start and keep trains running, according to Amtrak President Stephen Gardner.

“Obviously those are conversations we’ll need to have with the states moving forward,” Gardner said. “Right now, what we’re declaring is that this is part of our vision and with the federal partnership for the capital investments necessary . . . we would spend time talking to states about increasing, as needed, some support to cover the operating expenses.”&nbsp;

Gardner says the expansion and the benefits to the communities that gain Amtrak service would far outweigh the costs.

“We anticipate major economic benefits from this service,” Gardner said. “Both the capital investments necessary to make the service happen, and then the ongoing value of the service itself. We’re confident that the states will find this to be a good investment.” While Kansas and cities along the Southwest Chief have helped fund efforts to keep the Southwest Chief on its current route over the past five years, they do not directly subsidize the route. Texas and Oklahoma do provide financial assistance to the Flyer in its current form.

No timeline for the expansion was given, but all eyes are certainly on federal funding as to whether the Heartland Flyer would expand. Cities would likely have to come up with funds to accommodate passengers such as stations, or waiting areas, along with service at some stations. The cities between Newton and Oklahoma City have not had rail passenger service since 1979.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622746554124.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — As Amtrak continues to push for what it sees as the biggest opportunity to expand service in its 50 years of existence, a meeting was held Tuesday with local officials, Sen. Jerry Moran and Amtrak leadership about extending the Heartland Flyer route from Oklahoma City to Newton. Under the proposal, Amtrak would expand service from Oklahoma City to Fort Worth, Texas, three times per day while offering the one train per day to Newton.“What’s been inspiring to us at Amtrak is the support and interest that exists across the country to expand our service, particularly service such as the Heartland Flyer,” Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn said. “We face a series of challenges today. There’s a global climate crisis, increased congestion on our roads and driving time and time in the air. Our country needs a transportation system that offers frequent, reliable and a sustainable alternative to driving and flying.”One of those attending the meeting was Sen. Jerry Moran, who has been a longtime proponent of Amtrak. He says the route is important not only for cities like Wichita, but for the Southwest Chief, which serves Kansas.“The investment extending the Heartland Flyer would be invaluable to Kansans,” Moran said. “Also invaluable to the Southwest Chief with its stop in Newton and what a difference that will make in the ridership of that long-distance route.”One local leader who has been pushing hard for Amtrak expansion is current Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy, who echoed Moran's comments.“Some pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, the Southwest Chief for the entire line served approximately 340,000 customers,” McElroy said. “That’s about 2% more than in 2018.”McElroy says Amtrak's claims of increasing passenger service by as much as 200,000 passengers per year would be a big lift to Newton and the Chief. He says the city would be happy to accommodate them.“This additional 100,000 . . . 200,000 riders is a very significant number,” McElroy said. “We have the ability to service those folks as they interchange in Newton. We would definitely need to add some community amenities, but we are poised and prepared for that kind of ridership.”Like most expansion plans, Amtrak would ask cities and states that the expansion would serve to help with funding needs to start and keep trains running, according to Amtrak President Stephen Gardner.“Obviously those are conversations we’ll need to have with the states moving forward,” Gardner said. “Right now, what we’re declaring is that this is part of our vision and with the federal partnership for the capital investments necessary . . . we would spend time talking to states about increasing, as needed, some support to cover the operating expenses.”&nbsp;Gardner says the expansion and the benefits to the communities that gain Amtrak service would far outweigh the costs.“We anticipate major economic benefits from this service,” Gardner said. “Both the capital investments necessary to make the service happen, and then the ongoing value of the service itself. We’re confident that the states will find this to be a good investment.” While Kansas and cities along the Southwest Chief have helped fund efforts to keep the Southwest Chief on its current route over the past five years, they do not directly subsidize the route. Texas and Oklahoma do provide financial assistance to the Flyer in its current form.No timeline for the expansion was given, but all eyes are certainly on federal funding as to whether the Heartland Flyer would expand. Cities would likely have to come up with funds to accommodate passengers such as stations, or waiting areas, along with service at some stations. The cities between Newton and Oklahoma City have not had rail passenger service since 1979.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Heartland Flyer expansion getting strong consideration


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
As spring turns to summer, gas prices are rising.

"Here in Kansas, we rose five cents over the past week," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "We're now at an average of $2.86 a gallon. The good news is, we're 20 cents less than the national average and we're 10th cheapest in the United States."

Reno County is in relatively low price position within Kansas.

"Reno County is about six cents less than the statewide average at $2.80 a gallon," Steward said. "We've seen a recent drop in demand after the Memorial Day weekend."

Supplies are also getting more robust with refinery utilization at a high level. It's also looking like crude oil prices may drop soon.

"OPEC and its allies, including Russia, announced last week that they plan to gradually increase crude production in July," Steward said. "This could lead to a decrease in crude oil prices."

Crude oil accounts for more than 50% of the price at the pump.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602791408211.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
As spring turns to summer, gas prices are rising."Here in Kansas, we rose five cents over the past week," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "We're now at an average of $2.86 a gallon. The good news is, we're 20 cents less than the national average and we're 10th cheapest in the United States."Reno County is in relatively low price position within Kansas."Reno County is about six cents less than the statewide average at $2.80 a gallon," Steward said. "We've seen a recent drop in demand after the Memorial Day weekend."Supplies are also getting more robust with refinery utilization at a high level. It's also looking like crude oil prices may drop soon."OPEC and its allies, including Russia, announced last week that they plan to gradually increase crude production in July," Steward said. "This could lead to a decrease in crude oil prices."Crude oil accounts for more than 50% of the price at the pump.
<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK
HERE</a>&nbsp;to
download the Hutch Post mobile app. 
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sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Gas prices going up, but there may be some reduction later in the summer

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair announced Wednesday that&nbsp; Peoples Bank and Trust has signed a new multi-year agreement for the naming rights to the arena. The bank replaces Bretz and Young Injury Lawyers as official sponsors of the arena.

“The Peoples Bank and Trust Arena will be a new and exciting venue at the 2021 Kansas State Fair and for many Fairs to come,” General Manager Ed Berger said.&nbsp; “We welcome this new partnership and the staff is currently scheduling outstanding entertainment, new special events, and attractions for this September.”

The Arena located at the west end of the fairgrounds seats approximately 1900 and hosts many events, attractions, including the pedal pull championships, Kansas Auctioneers Association Bid Calling Event, and High School Marching Bands. The fair also announced tha Ron Diamond, the Comic Hypnotist, will return as a treasured and beloved entertainer too.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Peoples Bank and Trust is excited to partner with the Kansas State Fair by securing the Peoples Bank and Trust Arena,” Peoples Bank and Trust President and CEO Tom Pruitt said. “We look forward to a great relationship with the Kansas State Fair."&nbsp;

To kick off the first weekend of the 2021 Kansas State Fair, Peoples Bank and Trust Arena will host the Opening Ceremony on Friday, September 10th at 11 a.m.&nbsp; On the following day, the first Saturday, the 35th Infantry Division Kansas Army National Guard Band will perform.&nbsp;

The band will be one of several attractions scheduled at the arena in remembrance and honor of the 20th anniversary of September 11th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586266027570.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair announced Wednesday that&nbsp; Peoples Bank and Trust has signed a new multi-year agreement for the naming rights to the arena. The bank replaces Bretz and Young Injury Lawyers as official sponsors of the arena.“The Peoples Bank and Trust Arena will be a new and exciting venue at the 2021 Kansas State Fair and for many Fairs to come,” General Manager Ed Berger said.&nbsp; “We welcome this new partnership and the staff is currently scheduling outstanding entertainment, new special events, and attractions for this September.”The Arena located at the west end of the fairgrounds seats approximately 1900 and hosts many events, attractions, including the pedal pull championships, Kansas Auctioneers Association Bid Calling Event, and High School Marching Bands. The fair also announced tha Ron Diamond, the Comic Hypnotist, will return as a treasured and beloved entertainer too.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Peoples Bank and Trust is excited to partner with the Kansas State Fair by securing the Peoples Bank and Trust Arena,” Peoples Bank and Trust President and CEO Tom Pruitt said. “We look forward to a great relationship with the Kansas State Fair."&nbsp;To kick off the first weekend of the 2021 Kansas State Fair, Peoples Bank and Trust Arena will host the Opening Ceremony on Friday, September 10th at 11 a.m.&nbsp; On the following day, the first Saturday, the 35th Infantry Division Kansas Army National Guard Band will perform.&nbsp;The band will be one of several attractions scheduled at the arena in remembrance and honor of the 20th anniversary of September 11th.

Peoples Bank and Trust new Arena naming rights sponsor at Kansas State Fair

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Negotiations continue between Hutchinson USD 308 and the local teachers union on a new contract for next year. Executive Director of Human Resources Rick Kraus says things are progressing nicely.

“I’m certainly pleased with the progress both sides have made,” Kraus said. “There’s been great engagement by both teams. We’re working really hard on some language items.”&nbsp;

Kraus says that both sides also talked about compensation during the meeting.

“We had an initial proposal from the association on salary,” Kraus said. “We will take that to the board on Monday in executive session to visit with them on their thoughts about that proposal and hopefully have a counter proposal when we meet again.”

Most of the compensation matters are related to movement on the wage scale although the HNEA is asking for a $750 increase in base pay as well as a stipend of $750 for all of the faculty’s work during the pandemic.&nbsp;

The two sides meet again June 28. Kraus will not be a part of negotiations from here on out as he is set to retire June 15. Kraus says he has been in communication with his replacement Dr. Dawn Johnson on many matters regarding negotiations and other personnel issues as she prepares to take over July 1.

<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/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Negotiations continue between Hutchinson USD 308 and the local teachers union on a new contract for next year. Executive Director of Human Resources Rick Kraus says things are progressing nicely.“I’m certainly pleased with the progress both sides have made,” Kraus said. “There’s been great engagement by both teams. We’re working really hard on some language items.”&nbsp;Kraus says that both sides also talked about compensation during the meeting.“We had an initial proposal from the association on salary,” Kraus said. “We will take that to the board on Monday in executive session to visit with them on their thoughts about that proposal and hopefully have a counter proposal when we meet again.”Most of the compensation matters are related to movement on the wage scale although the HNEA is asking for a $750 increase in base pay as well as a stipend of $750 for all of the faculty’s work during the pandemic.&nbsp;The two sides meet again June 28. Kraus will not be a part of negotiations from here on out as he is set to retire June 15. Kraus says he has been in communication with his replacement Dr. Dawn Johnson on many matters regarding negotiations and other personnel issues as she prepares to take over July 1.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 308 and HNEA continue negotiations

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees will look over several policies during Thursday’s monthly meeting.

The first is the second reading to changes of the academic honesty policy. The changes ease some of the penalties for academic dishonesty giving&nbsp; a student an opportunity to correct any wrongdoing.&nbsp;

The board will also go over policy for acceptable use of the college's technology including computers and cell phones. The board will also have the second reading of the alcohol and drug policy and prevention program.

Also on Thursday, the board will seek approval of one time payments to all faculty staff and administrators. The payment would run from $250 to $1000 depending on how long the employee worked during the school year. President Dr. Carter File says that some workers took furlough during the pandemic and the school itself took a very conservative stance on salaries with so many unknowns on how the school year would progress. The one time payment is a way to make up some of that gap.

Thursday's meeting of the HutchCC Board of Trustees begins at&nbsp; 7 p.m. at the Shears Technology Center on the HutchCC campus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees will look over several policies during Thursday’s monthly meeting.The first is the second reading to changes of the academic honesty policy. The changes ease some of the penalties for academic dishonesty giving&nbsp; a student an opportunity to correct any wrongdoing.&nbsp;The board will also go over policy for acceptable use of the college's technology including computers and cell phones. The board will also have the second reading of the alcohol and drug policy and prevention program.Also on Thursday, the board will seek approval of one time payments to all faculty staff and administrators. The payment would run from $250 to $1000 depending on how long the employee worked during the school year. President Dr. Carter File says that some workers took furlough during the pandemic and the school itself took a very conservative stance on salaries with so many unknowns on how the school year would progress. The one time payment is a way to make up some of that gap.Thursday's meeting of the HutchCC Board of Trustees begins at&nbsp; 7 p.m. at the Shears Technology Center on the HutchCC campus.<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;

Hutch CC BOT meets Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Denice Gilliland-Burbank with the United Way highlighted the work of the K-Ready Coalition in looking into the childcare needs in Hutchinson and Reno County.

"The K-Ready Coalition has been part of the community for about eight years now," Gilliland-Burbank said. "It was started by the United Way. They brought leaders in the industry together and said, what do we need to do to get kids ready for kindergarten? What started as developing a checklist that all the districts could agree on that said, this is what we need for kindergarteners when they start school to be successful has really turned into us looking at the childcare system locally and looking at ways that we can develop local resources."

Child care capacity and affordability is in the City's Comprehensive Plan. City Council member Jade Piros de Carvalho noted that her family had to take extreme measures to get childcare for her daughter when she was an infant. Fortunately, there was a new center opening at the time of her pregnancy in 2017 at Our Redeemer Early Learning Center.

"I knew that there were only nine coveted spots," Piros de Carvalho said. "Without grandparents at the helm, or really, that village around me, I had to get one of those spots. We took some pretty extreme measures. They had a first come, first served enrollment. My husband stood outside at 3 a.m. in January, so we could be first in line and we were very lucky to secure a spot."

The disruptions caused by COVID made clear that much of the workforce could have childcare needs that are latent and typically covered by K-12, but also that those prior to that are dealing with it, too.

"It's the long-term benefits to society of having really high-quality early childhood care are extensive," Piros de Carvalho said. "You do save on the other side of the equation, right? You save on the criminal justice side. You save on the civil services side. It really is in the best economic interest of everyone, regardless of whether or not they have children, to care about these issues."

Below is the full interview with Piros de Carvalho and Gilliland-Burbank...

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623250989360.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Denice Gilliland-Burbank with the United Way highlighted the work of the K-Ready Coalition in looking into the childcare needs in Hutchinson and Reno County."The K-Ready Coalition has been part of the community for about eight years now," Gilliland-Burbank said. "It was started by the United Way. They brought leaders in the industry together and said, what do we need to do to get kids ready for kindergarten? What started as developing a checklist that all the districts could agree on that said, this is what we need for kindergarteners when they start school to be successful has really turned into us looking at the childcare system locally and looking at ways that we can develop local resources."Child care capacity and affordability is in the City's Comprehensive Plan. City Council member Jade Piros de Carvalho noted that her family had to take extreme measures to get childcare for her daughter when she was an infant. Fortunately, there was a new center opening at the time of her pregnancy in 2017 at Our Redeemer Early Learning Center."I knew that there were only nine coveted spots," Piros de Carvalho said. "Without grandparents at the helm, or really, that village around me, I had to get one of those spots. We took some pretty extreme measures. They had a first come, first served enrollment. My husband stood outside at 3 a.m. in January, so we could be first in line and we were very lucky to secure a spot."The disruptions caused by COVID made clear that much of the workforce could have childcare needs that are latent and typically covered by K-12, but also that those prior to that are dealing with it, too."It's the long-term benefits to society of having really high-quality early childhood care are extensive," Piros de Carvalho said. "You do save on the other side of the equation, right? You save on the criminal justice side. You save on the civil services side. It really is in the best economic interest of everyone, regardless of whether or not they have children, to care about these issues."Below is the full interview with Piros de Carvalho and Gilliland-Burbank...<div><iframe title="Childcare-United Way" 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=82kif-105d0df-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

Childcare still a community need in Reno County

FORT SCOTT, KS – The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Communication Arts and Journalism teacher, Samantha Neill, of Buhler High School in Buhler, Kansas. Samantha Neill will arrive in Fort Scott on June 20thfor a week of collaboration with LMC staff.

The LMC Fellowship is awarded on the basis of merit to educators who have distinguished themselves in teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning or who have the potential for this distinction. The Center selects exemplary teachers from across America and around the world, drawn from a variety of disciplines, to collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

Samantha Neill has taught English Language Arts and journalism at Buhler High School in Buhler USD 313 for the past 18 years. Although she is a long-time ELA teacher, she recently took a leap of faith and began teaching journalism and photography. She is working to create opportunities that empower students to use skills they have learned in real-life situations and create connections with influential adults and businesses in their communities. More than anything, Samantha believes teachers must reach the whole child, both socially and emotionally, rather than just teaching content. This belief inspired her to start the BHS Clothing Closet and BHS Food Bank to help meet clothing, food, and toiletry needs of students at her school. 

In 2018, Samantha was named Kansas Teacher of the Year. The Kansas Teacher of the Year Award recognizes and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms across the state of Kansas. Since then, she has led district-wide professional development about trauma-informed schools and classrooms. She also served as a member of the Kansas Continuous Learning Task Force, which created guidance for 300 local school districts as the state of Kansas transitioned to remote learning due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Outside of school, she is a wife and a mom to three boys, an avid baseball mom, a member of the Buhler Community Foundation, and a novice photographer. She is a foster-to-adopt mom who advocates for foster care and adoption within her community.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “For over a decade, our Fellows have been the cream of the crop, and Sam Neil fits that category. As someone who really understands Project Based Learning, Sam’s work stands out. She has been dynamic in the Teacher of the Year program.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources and ongoing support to enhance their classrooms and help students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows emerge prepared to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, as they apply and evaluate the stories of role models who have changed the world throughout history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623246886724.jpeg" alt="Samantha Neill-Photo courtesy Buhler USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Samantha Neill-Photo courtesy Buhler USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Lowell Milken CenterFORT SCOTT, KS – The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Communication Arts and Journalism teacher, Samantha Neill, of Buhler High School in Buhler, Kansas. Samantha Neill will arrive in Fort Scott on June 20thfor a week of collaboration with LMC staff.The LMC Fellowship is awarded on the basis of merit to educators who have distinguished themselves in teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning or who have the potential for this distinction. The Center selects exemplary teachers from across America and around the world, drawn from a variety of disciplines, to collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.Samantha Neill has taught English Language Arts and journalism at Buhler High School in Buhler USD 313 for the past 18 years. Although she is a long-time ELA teacher, she recently took a leap of faith and began teaching journalism and photography. She is working to create opportunities that empower students to use skills they have learned in real-life situations and create connections with influential adults and businesses in their communities. More than anything, Samantha believes teachers must reach the whole child, both socially and emotionally, rather than just teaching content. This belief inspired her to start the BHS Clothing Closet and BHS Food Bank to help meet clothing, food, and toiletry needs of students at her school. In 2018, Samantha was named Kansas Teacher of the Year. The Kansas Teacher of the Year Award recognizes and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms across the state of Kansas. Since then, she has led district-wide professional development about trauma-informed schools and classrooms. She also served as a member of the Kansas Continuous Learning Task Force, which created guidance for 300 local school districts as the state of Kansas transitioned to remote learning due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Outside of school, she is a wife and a mom to three boys, an avid baseball mom, a member of the Buhler Community Foundation, and a novice photographer. She is a foster-to-adopt mom who advocates for foster care and adoption within her community.LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “For over a decade, our Fellows have been the cream of the crop, and Sam Neil fits that category. As someone who really understands Project Based Learning, Sam’s work stands out. She has been dynamic in the Teacher of the Year program.”While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources and ongoing support to enhance their classrooms and help students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows emerge prepared to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, as they apply and evaluate the stories of role models who have changed the world throughout history.

USD 313's Samantha Neill Named 2021 Milken Center Fellow

MCPHERSON, Kan. — The proposed McPherson USD 418 bond issue went down to defeat on Tuesday. Preliminary numbers show voters were against the bond by more than a two to one margin. The canvass of the votes is scheduled for next week. The proposed bond was $112.8 million. 

In McPherson, there were two questions, one on the construction itself and a second on redirecting a portion of sales tax dollars to pay for a portion of that bond so that not all of it has to come from property taxes. Neither question came close to passage.

The bond included provisions for upgrades to all levels of McPherson schools, adding a middle school on to the current high school, moving 5th and 6th graders and the administrative offices to the current middle school and constructing new facilities for the McPherson football and track teams.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623148919904.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — The proposed McPherson USD 418 bond issue went down to defeat on Tuesday. Preliminary numbers show voters were against the bond by more than a two to one margin. The canvass of the votes is scheduled for next week. The proposed bond was $112.8 million. In McPherson, there were two questions, one on the construction itself and a second on redirecting a portion of sales tax dollars to pay for a portion of that bond so that not all of it has to come from property taxes. Neither question came close to passage.The bond included provisions for upgrades to all levels of McPherson schools, adding a middle school on to the current high school, moving 5th and 6th graders and the administrative offices to the current middle school and constructing new facilities for the McPherson football and track teams.

UPDATE: USD 418 voters reject bond issue Tuesday

HARVEY COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Tuesday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Mack Truck driven by Kenneth R. Graves, 24, Newton, was northbound on Interstate 135 four miles south of Newton. 

The driver lost control when he truck had a sudden tire failure on the left side axel #1. 

The truck swerved to the left, overturned in the inside lane, slid across the inside shoulder and came to rest in the median.

EMS transported Graves to a Wichita hospital. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623188916693.png" alt="Tuesday afternoon truck crash in Harvey County photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday afternoon truck crash in Harvey County photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Tuesday in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Mack Truck driven by Kenneth R. Graves, 24, Newton, was northbound on Interstate 135 four miles south of Newton. The driver lost control when he truck had a sudden tire failure on the left side axel #1. The truck swerved to the left, overturned in the inside lane, slid across the inside shoulder and came to rest in the median.EMS transported Graves to a Wichita hospital. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Newton man hospitalized after truck blows tire, overturns

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas’ senior senator and leaders from Wichita and Newton met with Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn and Amtrak President Stephen Gardner along with officials from Texas and Oklahoma Tuesday afternoon regarding the future of expanding rail passenger service.

Leading the meeting was Sen. Jerry Moran and Kansas Sen. Carolyn McGinn. Also involved was Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy.&nbsp;

The discussion centered around extending the Heartland Flyer from Oklahoma City to Newton. Such connections would make it easier for Wichita and Newton residents to travel south by train. Currently, the route is served by buses. While the route expansion has been bantered about for years, this is as far as talks have progressed.

The expansion would connect Amtrak routes run by the SW Chief and Texas Eagle, which also connects to service out to Arizona and California.

The expansion is part of an effort to expand Amtrak to more than 160 cities across the nation.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas’ senior senator and leaders from Wichita and Newton met with Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn and Amtrak President Stephen Gardner along with officials from Texas and Oklahoma Tuesday afternoon regarding the future of expanding rail passenger service.Leading the meeting was Sen. Jerry Moran and Kansas Sen. Carolyn McGinn. Also involved was Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy.&nbsp;The discussion centered around extending the Heartland Flyer from Oklahoma City to Newton. Such connections would make it easier for Wichita and Newton residents to travel south by train. Currently, the route is served by buses. While the route expansion has been bantered about for years, this is as far as talks have progressed.The expansion would connect Amtrak routes run by the SW Chief and Texas Eagle, which also connects to service out to Arizona and California.The expansion is part of an effort to expand Amtrak to more than 160 cities across the nation.<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;

Amtrak meets with local officials regarding Heartland Flyer expansion

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The assessed valuation for Reno County increased by 4.5% from last year. The total assessed valuation for the county was $641,278,910.

County Clerk Donna Patton says sharp increases in the valuation of utilities was most of the driving force behind the increase. A new pipeline was constructed through the county last year and added $11 million into the equation.&nbsp;

The city of Hutchinson had an assessed value for the year at $318,456,540. With the new law forcing government entities to stay revenue neutral, the mill levy for the county would be 39.967 mills. Currently, the county mill levy is 41.599. The city faces the same scenario with the current mill levy at 44.462. To stay revenue neutral, the mill levy would have to fall to 43.588 mills. With the new law, anything above revenue neutral will force government entities to disclose the increase and provide public notice to all patrons, publish the notice and hold a public hearing.

With constant increases in benefits and other things beyond city and county government control, how they deal with this first budget under the new law remains to be seen. The county is already in the middle of its budget process along with the city, which holds its next budget meeting June 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575718318204.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The assessed valuation for Reno County increased by 4.5% from last year. The total assessed valuation for the county was $641,278,910.County Clerk Donna Patton says sharp increases in the valuation of utilities was most of the driving force behind the increase. A new pipeline was constructed through the county last year and added $11 million into the equation.&nbsp;The city of Hutchinson had an assessed value for the year at $318,456,540. With the new law forcing government entities to stay revenue neutral, the mill levy for the county would be 39.967 mills. Currently, the county mill levy is 41.599. The city faces the same scenario with the current mill levy at 44.462. To stay revenue neutral, the mill levy would have to fall to 43.588 mills. With the new law, anything above revenue neutral will force government entities to disclose the increase and provide public notice to all patrons, publish the notice and hold a public hearing.With constant increases in benefits and other things beyond city and county government control, how they deal with this first budget under the new law remains to be seen. The county is already in the middle of its budget process along with the city, which holds its next budget meeting June 17.<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;

Assessed valuations for the county up 4.5%

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One person was treated for smoke inhalation after a fire at a residence in Hutchinson Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

Hutchinson Fire Crews responded to 716 W. 12th Ave. around 11:11 a.m. and found smoke coming from the rear of a single-story residence with the fire confined to the living room area of the home. The Hutchinson Police Department assisted the resident out of the structure as fire crews arrived. That person was treated, but refused transport to the hospital.

Fire damage was contained to the living room area with smoke damage throughout the home. The cause of the fire was smoking near an oxygen device. Residents are being assisted by the American Red Cross.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One person was treated for smoke inhalation after a fire at a residence in Hutchinson Tuesday morning.&nbsp;Hutchinson Fire Crews responded to 716 W. 12th Ave. around 11:11 a.m. and found smoke coming from the rear of a single-story residence with the fire confined to the living room area of the home. The Hutchinson Police Department assisted the resident out of the structure as fire crews arrived. That person was treated, but refused transport to the hospital.Fire damage was contained to the living room area with smoke damage throughout the home. The cause of the fire was smoking near an oxygen device. Residents are being assisted by the American Red Cross.<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;

HFD battles residential fire

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Several entities are teaming up to bring a new event to the downtown area this fall.

The Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run, Downtown Hutch and Hutch Rec will host the inaugural Hutchinson Fall Fest Oct. 1 and 2.

The weekend kicks off on Friday, Oct. 1, with the 14th annual Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run &amp; Classic Car Show. Activities start Friday and go through Saturday, Oct. 2, and feature a Show &amp; Shine of hot rods; a Main Street Cruise; burnout competition; vendor demonstrations; and much more. New in 2021 is the Salt City Vintage Market, which will be set up on Saturday at Avenue A &amp; Walnut.

Individuals interested in registering a vehicle or motorcycle to participate in the Rod Run may do so by visiting <a href="http://downtownhutchrodrun.com">downtownhutchrodrun.com</a>. Event organizers are also now accepting vendor applications for both the Rod Run and Salt City Vintage Market. Friday night’s entertainment also includes a free, family-friendly movie on the lawn of DCI Park, as well as a concert event inside Hutchinson’s historic Fox Theatre.

On Saturday, Hutch Rec presents the Salt City 5K/10K races. Runners and walkers will race through Downtown Hutchinson, starting and ending in DCI Park. Registration will open later this summer and can be done online at <a href="http://hutchrec.com">hutchrec.com</a> and in-person at Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st.

Also on Saturday is the Hutch Rec Foundation’s Brewfest: A Craft Beer Festival, from 2-6 p.m. in front of Hutch Rec Downtown on First Avenue. Participants will enjoy craft beer samples from a variety of Kansas brewers. Food trucks and entertainment will also be available throughout the afternoon. Tickets for Brewfest will be available later this summer for purchase at Hutch Rec, both online and in-person.

Hutch Fall Fest will conclude with Rod Run festivities and entertainment on Saturday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601384276591.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Several entities are teaming up to bring a new event to the downtown area this fall.The Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run, Downtown Hutch and Hutch Rec will host the inaugural Hutchinson Fall Fest Oct. 1 and 2.The weekend kicks off on Friday, Oct. 1, with the 14th annual Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run &amp; Classic Car Show. Activities start Friday and go through Saturday, Oct. 2, and feature a Show &amp; Shine of hot rods; a Main Street Cruise; burnout competition; vendor demonstrations; and much more. New in 2021 is the Salt City Vintage Market, which will be set up on Saturday at Avenue A &amp; Walnut.Individuals interested in registering a vehicle or motorcycle to participate in the Rod Run may do so by visiting <a href="http://downtownhutchrodrun.com">downtownhutchrodrun.com</a>. Event organizers are also now accepting vendor applications for both the Rod Run and Salt City Vintage Market. Friday night’s entertainment also includes a free, family-friendly movie on the lawn of DCI Park, as well as a concert event inside Hutchinson’s historic Fox Theatre.On Saturday, Hutch Rec presents the Salt City 5K/10K races. Runners and walkers will race through Downtown Hutchinson, starting and ending in DCI Park. Registration will open later this summer and can be done online at <a href="http://hutchrec.com">hutchrec.com</a> and in-person at Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st.Also on Saturday is the Hutch Rec Foundation’s Brewfest: A Craft Beer Festival, from 2-6 p.m. in front of Hutch Rec Downtown on First Avenue. Participants will enjoy craft beer samples from a variety of Kansas brewers. Food trucks and entertainment will also be available throughout the afternoon. Tickets for Brewfest will be available later this summer for purchase at Hutch Rec, both online and in-person.Hutch Fall Fest will conclude with Rod Run festivities and entertainment on Saturday night.<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;

Fall Fest set for Oct. 1-2

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 will further expand the summer meal program starting Wednesday.&nbsp;

The service will now offer drive-up or walk-up service at Hutchinson High School from 12 p.m. until 12:30 p.m. This service will provide a 5-day meal package. This is for those who will not be using the other meal sites.&nbsp;

Dine-in or grab-and-go meals are currently available at HMS-7 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., at the fairgrounds splash park from 11:15 a.m. until 12:15 p.m., and the Hutchinson Public Library from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

The service is open to all children ages 1-18.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587053247011.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 will further expand the summer meal program starting Wednesday.&nbsp;The service will now offer drive-up or walk-up service at Hutchinson High School from 12 p.m. until 12:30 p.m. This service will provide a 5-day meal package. This is for those who will not be using the other meal sites.&nbsp;Dine-in or grab-and-go meals are currently available at HMS-7 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., at the fairgrounds splash park from 11:15 a.m. until 12:15 p.m., and the Hutchinson Public Library from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.The service is open to all children ages 1-18.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Five-day summer meal bundles available starting Wednesday at HHS

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/9bc64371-ceba-417b-aa0e-66b7738293e9">CLICK HERE FOR THE UPDATED VERSION OF THIS STORY</a>


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department quickly contained a Tuesday morning fire in the city.&nbsp;

According to a tweet from the department, one person was treated for smoke inhalation following the fire in the 700 blk of West 12th Ave.

Hutch Post will provide more information on the fire as it becomes available.

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 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/9bc64371-ceba-417b-aa0e-66b7738293e9">CLICK HERE FOR THE UPDATED VERSION OF THIS STORY</a>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department quickly contained a Tuesday morning fire in the city.&nbsp;According to a tweet from the department, one person was treated for smoke inhalation following the fire in the 700 blk of West 12th Ave.Hutch Post will provide more information on the fire as it becomes available.

One person treated after Tuesday fire

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/481c9cbf-4808-4acd-8b3c-1665f04c3adf">Yield signs have officially been installed at Van Buren Street and Heather Parkway on Heather Parkway going east and west, with Van Buren as the through street going north and south</a>.

Resident Chris Mullins, whose accident with his kids in the car prompted him to come to the City Council and ask about the intersection, sent Hutch Post a photo Tuesday. 

Mullins had originally asked about a stop sign, but the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices does not warrant a stop sign at that level of traffic.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/481c9cbf-4808-4acd-8b3c-1665f04c3adf">Yield signs have officially been installed at Van Buren Street and Heather Parkway on Heather Parkway going east and west, with Van Buren as the through street going north and south</a>.Resident Chris Mullins, whose accident with his kids in the car prompted him to come to the City Council and ask about the intersection, sent Hutch Post a photo Tuesday. Mullins had originally asked about a stop sign, but the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices does not warrant a stop sign at that level of traffic.

Yield signs up after citizen asks for action

HAVEN Kan. — The Haven City Council went over budget requests from three departments during Monday's regular agenda session.

The Council got requests from the library board totaling $46,647, which is equal to last year's amount; The police department for $273,400, which is an increase of $5,250 and the park board for $76,935 which is a decrease of $12,485. The municipal court budget was also presented totaling $42,657, a decrease of around $3,000.

Also Monday, the council gave approval to a revision requiring the city’s Recreation Director to live within the city limits. The change reflects that the candidate must only live within the USD 312 boundaries. With that change, the council approved hiring Stephanie Pace as the new Rec Director.&nbsp;

Haven will have a farmers market during the summer months. The council gave approval on a request form the Haven Chamber of Commerce to host a semi-monthly market at Engweiler Park at 5th and Salina Streets. No other details were provided.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090767638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN Kan. — The Haven City Council went over budget requests from three departments during Monday's regular agenda session.The Council got requests from the library board totaling $46,647, which is equal to last year's amount; The police department for $273,400, which is an increase of $5,250 and the park board for $76,935 which is a decrease of $12,485. The municipal court budget was also presented totaling $42,657, a decrease of around $3,000.Also Monday, the council gave approval to a revision requiring the city’s Recreation Director to live within the city limits. The change reflects that the candidate must only live within the USD 312 boundaries. With that change, the council approved hiring Stephanie Pace as the new Rec Director.&nbsp;Haven will have a farmers market during the summer months. The council gave approval on a request form the Haven Chamber of Commerce to host a semi-monthly market at Engweiler Park at 5th and Salina Streets. No other details were provided.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven City Council looks over budget requests


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar recommended Tuesday that the county hire a fire service professional to oversee the county's rural fire chiefs and take some of those issues off of his desk. The intent is to find a formula to split up the cost between the fire districts. 

Weishaar and County Administrator Randy Partington have been given the task of figuring out what compensation for such a professional would look like. In addition, the county commission has asked for staff to bring them a progress report in six months on how the fire districts are working. 

The fire districts are already working on a strategic plan, this may be in an effort to hold off potential consolidation into one fire district, though there are some advantages to consolidation from an administrative perspective because it allows for automatic mutual aid to happen.

Until the job description and the compensation are completed and made public, it's hard to know whether someone local who already is familiar with the fire districts may have interest in the job or if it will need to be an outside hire. If there is an outside hire, it would take more time to get them up to speed on the issues.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar recommended Tuesday that the county hire a fire service professional to oversee the county's rural fire chiefs and take some of those issues off of his desk. The intent is to find a formula to split up the cost between the fire districts. Weishaar and County Administrator Randy Partington have been given the task of figuring out what compensation for such a professional would look like. In addition, the county commission has asked for staff to bring them a progress report in six months on how the fire districts are working. The fire districts are already working on a strategic plan, this may be in an effort to hold off potential consolidation into one fire district, though there are some advantages to consolidation from an administrative perspective because it allows for automatic mutual aid to happen.Until the job description and the compensation are completed and made public, it's hard to know whether someone local who already is familiar with the fire districts may have interest in the job or if it will need to be an outside hire. If there is an outside hire, it would take more time to get them up to speed on the issues.

County will look to hire fire professional, job description still to come

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hoisington man is jailed on numerous potential drug charges following a traffic stop Sunday afternoon in Hutchinson.

Police arrested 21-year-old Zachary Bitter on requested charges of possession of meth, marijuana, and mushrooms all with intent to sell. He was also arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. Bitter was arrested in the 1100 block of S. Severance around 4:20 p.m. and booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility on a bond of $150,000.

A second person involved, 26-year-old Ashley Robertson of Hutchinson was taken into custody on potential charges of possession of meth and drug paraphernalia. Her bond is set at $5,750.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623163904085.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hoisington man is jailed on numerous potential drug charges following a traffic stop Sunday afternoon in Hutchinson.Police arrested 21-year-old Zachary Bitter on requested charges of possession of meth, marijuana, and mushrooms all with intent to sell. He was also arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. Bitter was arrested in the 1100 block of S. Severance around 4:20 p.m. and booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility on a bond of $150,000.A second person involved, 26-year-old Ashley Robertson of Hutchinson was taken into custody on potential charges of possession of meth and drug paraphernalia. Her bond is set at $5,750.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Man held on $150,000 bond after drug arrest

HAVEN, Kan. — A Chapman woman escaped serious injury after her car was hit by a semi on K-96 Monday afternoon.

The Reno County Sheriff’s Department reports that Judith Sholes was stopped alongside K-96 at Victory Road with the car door open feeding her dog,when the westbound semi driven by Cody Powers of Haven struck the door. Sholes was shaken up but not seriously injured. She was taken by EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

Powers was cited for improper passing. The accident happened around 3:20 p.m. one mile east of Haven.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564766073002.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — A Chapman woman escaped serious injury after her car was hit by a semi on K-96 Monday afternoon.The Reno County Sheriff’s Department reports that Judith Sholes was stopped alongside K-96 at Victory Road with the car door open feeding her dog,when the westbound semi driven by Cody Powers of Haven struck the door. Sholes was shaken up but not seriously injured. She was taken by EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.Powers was cited for improper passing. The accident happened around 3:20 p.m. one mile east of Haven.<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;

Car hit by semi near Haven Monday afternoon

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— Like many school districts, Hutchinson USD 308 is seeing declining enrollment. The numbers were presented to the public and board members during a special USD 308 board meeting on Monday.&nbsp; 

Rob Schwarz with RSP in Kansas City talked about everything from enrollment, to housing, to where most of the current and future students live. The study is being done to see where the district may go in the future. No action came during Monday’s meeting. No final decisions are expected until near the end of the calendar year.&nbsp;

Along with the declining enrollment, the district is also seeing little housing development and expansion. Schwarz said that both small populations and smaller families are leading to fewer students in the district. During the 2020-21 school year there were 335 seniors leaving school while just 268 students were joining kindergarten. The study once again addressed boundaries and how they could steer students in the future. North of the BNSF railroad tracks, building inventory is exceeding the number of students in the north half of the city. South of the railroad tracks also shows that the inventory there is now exceeding student numbers despite the closure of one elementary school in that area during the last boundary readjustment. Schwarz told the board he does not see anything that could change those trends in the near future. 

If the district loses 100 students it is roughly a $700,000 hit to the district's revenue. The district's reserves have been stabilized by COVID funds. Those funds will continue for about two more years before reserves would have to be used to keep revenue where it needs to be.

The study also presented findings for the district's building capacity and functionality. The study showed that only one elementary school was above 70% functional while the others were below that 70% mark. That means the buildings are not being utilized to their full capacity. Some facilities could be used for different core classes such as special needs or other programs. The study included tours of the buildings to see how they were being used during the typical school day. The study shows that the district has more than enough capacity for students now and in the future in all three school levels.&nbsp;

The district wants to address grade configuration, ideal school size, neighborhood schools, boundary realignment and building utilization. There are also early childhood needs they want to address. Schwarz says some of the things that could be done include adjusting space usage in small steps and as needed to show how buildings could be used to their capacity. The study also makes clear that the lack of good and affordable housing stock is hindering the ability of the district to draw more families and thus students into the district.&nbsp;

Some of the ideas bounced around included potentially consolidating the middle schools, finding a way to move the 6th grade out of the elementary schools, and what the district could do with the administrative offices. Schwarz said nothing is off the table when it comes to ways to improve the district.

The next steps include finding what the best elementary and middle school grade configuration is, what is the ideal size of middle school to ensure best student performance, and what is the ideal available capacity. The issue of the sixth grade students being at the elementary level is one of the issues that could be addressed. Some feel that the sixth grade should be with the middle school students. Making that choice could require expanding the middle school facilities. Schwarz says RSP will be back with more suggestions and noted that ideas that will be bounced around will likely get patrons attention and some may not be popular.&nbsp;

Superintendent Mike Folks said that he wants patrons and parents to get involved in HUSAC ( Hutchinson Unified Superintendents Advisory Council) and get involved in the future of the school district. Folks wanted to stress that these are very preliminary ideas and nothing is set in stone.&nbsp;

The board says they will have to make decisions that are tough and need patrons to learn as much as they can and provide their imput. The board also said the district needs to leverage the resources they have and make the district a place students want to come to. Schwarz said we know that we can’t do things the way these have been done and changes need to be made.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="USD 308 Blue-Gold Logo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>USD 308 Blue-Gold Logo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.— Like many school districts, Hutchinson USD 308 is seeing declining enrollment. The numbers were presented to the public and board members during a special USD 308 board meeting on Monday.&nbsp; Rob Schwarz with RSP in Kansas City talked about everything from enrollment, to housing, to where most of the current and future students live. The study is being done to see where the district may go in the future. No action came during Monday’s meeting. No final decisions are expected until near the end of the calendar year.&nbsp;Along with the declining enrollment, the district is also seeing little housing development and expansion. Schwarz said that both small populations and smaller families are leading to fewer students in the district. During the 2020-21 school year there were 335 seniors leaving school while just 268 students were joining kindergarten. The study once again addressed boundaries and how they could steer students in the future. North of the BNSF railroad tracks, building inventory is exceeding the number of students in the north half of the city. South of the railroad tracks also shows that the inventory there is now exceeding student numbers despite the closure of one elementary school in that area during the last boundary readjustment. Schwarz told the board he does not see anything that could change those trends in the near future. If the district loses 100 students it is roughly a $700,000 hit to the district's revenue. The district's reserves have been stabilized by COVID funds. Those funds will continue for about two more years before reserves would have to be used to keep revenue where it needs to be.The study also presented findings for the district's building capacity and functionality. The study showed that only one elementary school was above 70% functional while the others were below that 70% mark. That means the buildings are not being utilized to their full capacity. Some facilities could be used for different core classes such as special needs or other programs. The study included tours of the buildings to see how they were being used during the typical school day. The study shows that the district has more than enough capacity for students now and in the future in all three school levels.&nbsp;The district wants to address grade configuration, ideal school size, neighborhood schools, boundary realignment and building utilization. There are also early childhood needs they want to address. Schwarz says some of the things that could be done include adjusting space usage in small steps and as needed to show how buildings could be used to their capacity. The study also makes clear that the lack of good and affordable housing stock is hindering the ability of the district to draw more families and thus students into the district.&nbsp;Some of the ideas bounced around included potentially consolidating the middle schools, finding a way to move the 6th grade out of the elementary schools, and what the district could do with the administrative offices. Schwarz said nothing is off the table when it comes to ways to improve the district.The next steps include finding what the best elementary and middle school grade configuration is, what is the ideal size of middle school to ensure best student performance, and what is the ideal available capacity. The issue of the sixth grade students being at the elementary level is one of the issues that could be addressed. Some feel that the sixth grade should be with the middle school students. Making that choice could require expanding the middle school facilities. Schwarz says RSP will be back with more suggestions and noted that ideas that will be bounced around will likely get patrons attention and some may not be popular.&nbsp;Superintendent Mike Folks said that he wants patrons and parents to get involved in HUSAC ( Hutchinson Unified Superintendents Advisory Council) and get involved in the future of the school district. Folks wanted to stress that these are very preliminary ideas and nothing is set in stone.&nbsp;The board says they will have to make decisions that are tough and need patrons to learn as much as they can and provide their imput. The board also said the district needs to leverage the resources they have and make the district a place students want to come to. Schwarz said we know that we can’t do things the way these have been done and changes need to be made.<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;

RSP paints the picture of the district to the USD 308 Board

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department is offering a “sweet” incentive to get your COVID vaccination.&nbsp;Walk-in for your COVID-19 vaccine at the Health Department and receive a coupon for a free vanilla waffle cone from Spangles,&nbsp;1107 East 30th&nbsp;or 120 E. 4th&nbsp;Ave., with any purchase, or&nbsp;a small cone from Bogey’s, 1718 N. Plum.&nbsp;The coupons are available while supplies last.

“We are excited to partner with Spangles and Bogey’s to offer an extra treat for those still needing vaccinations,” says Reno County Health Department Director Karla Nichols. “Even though numbers are trending downwards, we need to remain vigilant in order to keep everyone safe this summer.” The vaccine has proved extremely effective in preventing hospitalizations and serious illness. No previously vaccinated individuals have been hospitalized in Reno County.&nbsp;

The Reno County Health Department, 209 West 2nd Ave., is administering the Pfizer vaccine to ages 12 and over, and the Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines to ages 18 and over. 

They are accepting walk-ins during normal business hours and are also offering expanded hours this week. The Health Department will stay open until 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 10, and be open Saturday, June 12, from 8 a.m. to noon.&nbsp;Their normal hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to noon and 1 to 6 p.m., and Wednesday 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 6 p.m.

The COVID-19 vaccine is FREE for any Reno County Resident, age 12 and over, regardless of citizen status or insurance. No appointment is needed. For more information about the vaccine, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19" target="_blank">www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;call 620-694-2900 Ext. 6.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623147851264.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department is offering a “sweet” incentive to get your COVID vaccination.&nbsp;Walk-in for your COVID-19 vaccine at the Health Department and receive a coupon for a free vanilla waffle cone from Spangles,&nbsp;1107 East 30th&nbsp;or 120 E. 4th&nbsp;Ave., with any purchase, or&nbsp;a small cone from Bogey’s, 1718 N. Plum.&nbsp;The coupons are available while supplies last.“We are excited to partner with Spangles and Bogey’s to offer an extra treat for those still needing vaccinations,” says Reno County Health Department Director Karla Nichols. “Even though numbers are trending downwards, we need to remain vigilant in order to keep everyone safe this summer.” The vaccine has proved extremely effective in preventing hospitalizations and serious illness. No previously vaccinated individuals have been hospitalized in Reno County.&nbsp;The Reno County Health Department, 209 West 2nd Ave., is administering the Pfizer vaccine to ages 12 and over, and the Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines to ages 18 and over. They are accepting walk-ins during normal business hours and are also offering expanded hours this week. The Health Department will stay open until 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 10, and be open Saturday, June 12, from 8 a.m. to noon.&nbsp;Their normal hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to noon and 1 to 6 p.m., and Wednesday 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 6 p.m. The COVID-19 vaccine is FREE for any Reno County Resident, age 12 and over, regardless of citizen status or insurance. No appointment is needed. For more information about the vaccine, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19" target="_blank">www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;call 620-694-2900 Ext. 6.

Free Ice Cream for Vaccinating; Evening/Weekend Hours at the Health Department

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — An official with a Co-Op in southern Kansas says he would not be surprised if a sample or two of wheat comes in by the end of the week — despite the numbers from the Kansas Ag Statistics Service that show most of the crop is still behind schedule.&nbsp;

The OK Co-Op in Kiowa is usually one of the first elevators to take in wheat each year. If all goes as planned, cutting could be getting underway in southern parts of Kansas in the next two weeks.

The latest report shows 65% of the wheat is in good to excellent shape, 25% fair and just 10% poor to very poor. Some fields have been damaged by hail, but most are still standing despite some unfavorable weather.&nbsp;

In south-central Kansas, 80% of the wheat has turned color with the state average at 49%. That’s well behind the five-year average of 59%. Two percent of the wheat has matured in the state.&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621357930540.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — An official with a Co-Op in southern Kansas says he would not be surprised if a sample or two of wheat comes in by the end of the week — despite the numbers from the Kansas Ag Statistics Service that show most of the crop is still behind schedule.&nbsp;The OK Co-Op in Kiowa is usually one of the first elevators to take in wheat each year. If all goes as planned, cutting could be getting underway in southern parts of Kansas in the next two weeks.The latest report shows 65% of the wheat is in good to excellent shape, 25% fair and just 10% poor to very poor. Some fields have been damaged by hail, but most are still standing despite some unfavorable weather.&nbsp;In south-central Kansas, 80% of the wheat has turned color with the state average at 49%. That’s well behind the five-year average of 59%. Two percent of the wheat has matured in the state.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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