
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the month for April is Courtney Bleything, 5th grade Teacher at Morgan Elementary. Bleything has worked in USD 308 for 16 years.

"I enjoy building relationships with my students," Bleything said. "I also love exposing them to math and different types of books that they can read."

The entry for Bleything at Hutch Post noted that she finds time to sit down and hand write uplifting notes on cards and mails them to her students. She's especially proud of how they have taken care of their obligations during COVID-19.

"The kids have really adapted well," Bleything said. "They've shown some perseverance and determination, for sure."

Watching her students figure out how to solve problems is one of the things that brings her satisfaction.

"I love when students can make mistakes and grow from them," Bleything said. "Watching students persevere through a problem that they didn't think they could make it through is one of the best things that can take place in the classroom. I also enjoy when students can share their ideas with others and help them see different ways or a different solution to a problem that they might have, whether that be math, reading, or even in life."

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5ec53a9feb7f1705360562d6">Bleything was nominated as one of USD 308's entries in the Kansas National Teacher of the Year competition this past spring</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1619874185003.jpeg" alt="Chris Schul from Allen Samuels CDJR, Teacher of the Month Courtney Bleything and Eagle Communications General Manager Nancy Swain" />
 <figcaption>Chris Schul from Allen Samuels CDJR, Teacher of the Month Courtney Bleything and Eagle Communications General Manager Nancy Swain</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the month for April is Courtney Bleything, 5th grade Teacher at Morgan Elementary. Bleything has worked in USD 308 for 16 years."I enjoy building relationships with my students," Bleything said. "I also love exposing them to math and different types of books that they can read."The entry for Bleything at Hutch Post noted that she finds time to sit down and hand write uplifting notes on cards and mails them to her students. She's especially proud of how they have taken care of their obligations during COVID-19."The kids have really adapted well," Bleything said. "They've shown some perseverance and determination, for sure."Watching her students figure out how to solve problems is one of the things that brings her satisfaction."I love when students can make mistakes and grow from them," Bleything said. "Watching students persevere through a problem that they didn't think they could make it through is one of the best things that can take place in the classroom. I also enjoy when students can share their ideas with others and help them see different ways or a different solution to a problem that they might have, whether that be math, reading, or even in life."<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5ec53a9feb7f1705360562d6">Bleything was nominated as one of USD 308's entries in the Kansas National Teacher of the Year competition this past spring</a>.

Teacher of the Month: Building relationships key with students


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp; AAA Kansas, part of AAA Club Alliance, launched its ‘Great American Road Trip’ campaign Saturday.

"The vast majority of people this summer are going to be traveling by road," said spokesperson Shawn Steward. "We're launching a campaign on the Great American Road Trip, providing those resources and reminders for travelers. We're getting a big influx of people asking for assistance with our tour books and maps. A lot of people may be familiar with our TripTiks. We can now do those digitally."

AAA has a special online COVID-19 Travel Restrictions map of the United States to help travelers keep track of the ever-changing landscape of rules and regulations.

"As COVID restrictions do slowly come off the books, there's a little less concern there, especially if your family is vaccinated," Steward said. "We still think it's important to pay attention to your destination, what the local restrictions are there. Stick to the mask wearing, social distancing, still as much as possible."

Because of stay-at-home orders last year and continued COVID restrictions into this year, drivers may have been putting fewer miles on their car.

"We anticipate this summer, in the state of Kansas, having to respond to more than 21,000 calls for assistance from disabled vehicles," Steward said.

For vehicles of any age, old and new, AAA advises drivers make a good “B-E-T” to stay on the road by having a vehicle’s Battery, Engine and Tires checked before embarking on a summer excursion.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp; AAA Kansas, part of AAA Club Alliance, launched its ‘Great American Road Trip’ campaign Saturday."The vast majority of people this summer are going to be traveling by road," said spokesperson Shawn Steward. "We're launching a campaign on the Great American Road Trip, providing those resources and reminders for travelers. We're getting a big influx of people asking for assistance with our tour books and maps. A lot of people may be familiar with our TripTiks. We can now do those digitally."AAA has a special online COVID-19 Travel Restrictions map of the United States to help travelers keep track of the ever-changing landscape of rules and regulations."As COVID restrictions do slowly come off the books, there's a little less concern there, especially if your family is vaccinated," Steward said. "We still think it's important to pay attention to your destination, what the local restrictions are there. Stick to the mask wearing, social distancing, still as much as possible."Because of stay-at-home orders last year and continued COVID restrictions into this year, drivers may have been putting fewer miles on their car."We anticipate this summer, in the state of Kansas, having to respond to more than 21,000 calls for assistance from disabled vehicles," Steward said.For vehicles of any age, old and new, AAA advises drivers make a good “B-E-T” to stay on the road by having a vehicle’s Battery, Engine and Tires checked before embarking on a summer excursion.

AAA launches Great American Road Trip campaign


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A relatively routine agenda is on tap for the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday.

The council will look at appointments to the Human Relations Commission and the Library Board, have an open hearing for Axel's Taxi, run by Samantha Ratley, consider initial review of a potential art donation by Lovella Kelley in memory of her husband, consider the next three years of the Historic Preservation Action Plan on the recommendation of the Landmarks Commission and consider special alcohol fund awards for FY 2022.

The City Council will also have an executive session to discuss City Manager Jeff Cantrell's job performance evaluation. 

The Hutchinson City Council will meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall. The meeting can also be viewed <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/CityOfHutchinson">on Youtube</a> and on the city's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonks/">Facebook page</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609255107994.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A relatively routine agenda is on tap for the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday.The council will look at appointments to the Human Relations Commission and the Library Board, have an open hearing for Axel's Taxi, run by Samantha Ratley, consider initial review of a potential art donation by Lovella Kelley in memory of her husband, consider the next three years of the Historic Preservation Action Plan on the recommendation of the Landmarks Commission and consider special alcohol fund awards for FY 2022.The City Council will also have an executive session to discuss City Manager Jeff Cantrell's job performance evaluation. The Hutchinson City Council will meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall. The meeting can also be viewed <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/CityOfHutchinson">on Youtube</a> and on the city's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonks/">Facebook page</a>.

Hutchinson City Council to meet Tuesday

HUTCHINSON—Three people had minor injures after an accident just before 9:30a.m. Saturday at the Prairie Skies Air Show in Hutchinson.&nbsp;

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1962 Beech 23 Fixed Wing Single Engine airplane piloted by Dallas Arthur Hewett, 63, Wichita, attempted to take off from Hutchinson Airport.&nbsp;

The aircraft had a power failure in the engine and stalled out. The pilot attempted to land and made a hard landing in the wheat field just south of the airport.

The KHP reported&nbsp;Hewett and two passengers&nbsp; Samantha Leonor&nbsp;Dagorret, 29, Wichita, and Maxton W. Susee, 9, Hutchinson, had minor injuries.&nbsp; The KHP did not report where they were treated. The accident remains under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1619882956507.jpeg" alt="Plane near Hutch Airport-Photo courtesy Conrad Wagler" />
 <figcaption>Plane near Hutch Airport-Photo courtesy Conrad Wagler</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON—Three people had minor injures after an accident just before 9:30a.m. Saturday at the Prairie Skies Air Show in Hutchinson.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1962 Beech 23 Fixed Wing Single Engine airplane piloted by Dallas Arthur Hewett, 63, Wichita, attempted to take off from Hutchinson Airport.&nbsp;The aircraft had a power failure in the engine and stalled out. The pilot attempted to land and made a hard landing in the wheat field just south of the airport.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1619899923940.png" alt="Photo courtesy Steve Dic" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Steve Dic</figcaption>
 </figure>The KHP reported&nbsp;Hewett and two passengers&nbsp; Samantha Leonor&nbsp;Dagorret, 29, Wichita, and Maxton W. Susee, 9, Hutchinson, had minor injuries.&nbsp; The KHP did not report where they were treated. The accident remains under investigation.-----------

Update: Plane makes landing in field near Hutchinson Airport

RENO COUNTY — A McPherson USD 418 bus was involved in an accident with a deer Friday morning on K-61 in Reno County.

According to the report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, around 8:10 Friday morning, the bus hit a deer on K-61 between the 56th Avenue and 82nd Avenue exits at milepost 62.8 northbound.

There was one passenger on the bus and 57-year-old Jose Luis Hernandez of McPherson was driving. No one was hurt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565878337780.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — A McPherson USD 418 bus was involved in an accident with a deer Friday morning on K-61 in Reno County.According to the report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, around 8:10 Friday morning, the bus hit a deer on K-61 between the 56th Avenue and 82nd Avenue exits at milepost 62.8 northbound.There was one passenger on the bus and 57-year-old Jose Luis Hernandez of McPherson was driving. No one was hurt.

School bus hits deer on K-61 Friday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas notes that gas prices are relatively stable right now, though they are obviously higher this year than last.

"Right now, the Kansas average is about $2.72 a gallon," Steward said. "Reno County is experiencing about the same price."

There are seasonal pressures likely to increase prices soon.

"Demand has rebounded," Steward said. "We expect that to stay very strong throughout the summer with more people taking summer vacations this year."

Steward wouldn't rule out the potential for $3 gas before the summer is out.

"Crude oil prices, at least recently, have stabilized," Steward said. "Supply is strong. Those two things sort of balance out the demand. We do have to take into account that the summer blend fuel will be coming in to the system by June 1st. That usually helps tick up the price a slight amount."

Kansas is the 14th cheapest state for gasoline right now, which is about as low on the list as it ever gets.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas notes that gas prices are relatively stable right now, though they are obviously higher this year than last."Right now, the Kansas average is about $2.72 a gallon," Steward said. "Reno County is experiencing about the same price."There are seasonal pressures likely to increase prices soon."Demand has rebounded," Steward said. "We expect that to stay very strong throughout the summer with more people taking summer vacations this year."Steward wouldn't rule out the potential for $3 gas before the summer is out."Crude oil prices, at least recently, have stabilized," Steward said. "Supply is strong. Those two things sort of balance out the demand. We do have to take into account that the summer blend fuel will be coming in to the system by June 1st. That usually helps tick up the price a slight amount."Kansas is the 14th cheapest state for gasoline right now, which is about as low on the list as it ever gets.

AAA: Gas prices relatively stable, but likely headed up


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A risk-benefit analysis that guided nationwide recommendations regarding the Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine doses starting up again suggested that it is much safer for women of childbearing age to get that vaccine than to not be vaccinated at all.

"If you have been vaccinated, you're saving over 297 COVID-19 related hospitalizations, 56 ICU admissions and 6 deaths would be prevented," said Karen Hammersmith with the Reno County Health Department. "That's why it's extremely important to get vaccinated."

Many of those most at risk have been vaccinated, but even more people need to roll up their sleeves.

"We need to protect everybody by getting more adults vaccinated," Hammersmith said. "I can look at that in a positive light. We have over 41% of the adult population that are eligible to be, vaccinated."

Will the COVID-19 vaccine be a one-time thing, or a yearly shot like the flu shot? It's too early to tell.

"We don't know yet," Hammersmith said. "The vaccine's been out, now, close to six months. They've been doing studies on that, but the medical side of things started getting vaccinated in late, late December and early January. By June they're going to decide, do we need a booster dose, that we're considered that you wouldn't have to quarantine, but then you're going to move forward from that."

Anecdotally, Hammersmith said that for those who use a two-shot series like the Moderna, if they've had the virus, typically there is an immune response to the first shot. If they haven't been exposed, then the larger response is to the second dose.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604716965620.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A risk-benefit analysis that guided nationwide recommendations regarding the Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine doses starting up again suggested that it is much safer for women of childbearing age to get that vaccine than to not be vaccinated at all."If you have been vaccinated, you're saving over 297 COVID-19 related hospitalizations, 56 ICU admissions and 6 deaths would be prevented," said Karen Hammersmith with the Reno County Health Department. "That's why it's extremely important to get vaccinated."Many of those most at risk have been vaccinated, but even more people need to roll up their sleeves."We need to protect everybody by getting more adults vaccinated," Hammersmith said. "I can look at that in a positive light. We have over 41% of the adult population that are eligible to be, vaccinated."Will the COVID-19 vaccine be a one-time thing, or a yearly shot like the flu shot? It's too early to tell."We don't know yet," Hammersmith said. "The vaccine's been out, now, close to six months. They've been doing studies on that, but the medical side of things started getting vaccinated in late, late December and early January. By June they're going to decide, do we need a booster dose, that we're considered that you wouldn't have to quarantine, but then you're going to move forward from that."Anecdotally, Hammersmith said that for those who use a two-shot series like the Moderna, if they've had the virus, typically there is an immune response to the first shot. If they haven't been exposed, then the larger response is to the second dose.

Hammersmith: Vaccination still 'extremely important'


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Regional Medical Center donated $2,450 in equipment to Hutchinson’s Historic Fox Theatre as part of the performance center’s annual safety training held on April 28.

Included in the donation were three Shelf Industrial First Aid kits, three Solar Emergency Blankets, six I Proven Non-Contact Thermometers, and an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED).

The AED, valued at $1,900, has the capability of analyzing the heart rhythm in individuals who are experiencing sudden cardiac issues and will deliver an electrical shock to restore normal heart rhythm, if needed. AEDs were intended to make this lifesaving treatment available to the general public with minimal training.

Cody Jenkins, registered nurse with the cardiovascular Cath lab at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, demonstrated the AED to an audience of 50 at the Fox Theatre which included employees, volunteers and members of the organization’s board of directors.

Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, commended Hutchinson’s Historic Fox Theatre for their ongoing efforts to provide a safe environment for the thousands of patrons and volunteers who attend shows and other events at the performance center. “Preparing for an emergency we hope never happens is an important part of any organization. Chuck Miller, Fox’s Executive Director and his staff are role models in our community for what they do and Hutchinson Regional is proud to support their efforts,” Johnson said.

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is an entity of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Other entities are Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, Health E Quip, and Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619812218850.jpeg" alt="Cody Jenkins HRMC" />
 <figcaption>Cody Jenkins HRMC</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Regional Medical Center donated $2,450 in equipment to Hutchinson’s Historic Fox Theatre as part of the performance center’s annual safety training held on April 28.Included in the donation were three Shelf Industrial First Aid kits, three Solar Emergency Blankets, six I Proven Non-Contact Thermometers, and an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED).The AED, valued at $1,900, has the capability of analyzing the heart rhythm in individuals who are experiencing sudden cardiac issues and will deliver an electrical shock to restore normal heart rhythm, if needed. AEDs were intended to make this lifesaving treatment available to the general public with minimal training.Cody Jenkins, registered nurse with the cardiovascular Cath lab at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, demonstrated the AED to an audience of 50 at the Fox Theatre which included employees, volunteers and members of the organization’s board of directors.Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, commended Hutchinson’s Historic Fox Theatre for their ongoing efforts to provide a safe environment for the thousands of patrons and volunteers who attend shows and other events at the performance center. “Preparing for an emergency we hope never happens is an important part of any organization. Chuck Miller, Fox’s Executive Director and his staff are role models in our community for what they do and Hutchinson Regional is proud to support their efforts,” Johnson said.Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is an entity of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Other entities are Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, Health E Quip, and Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.

HRMC donates equipment to Fox Theatre


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Dillons and the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at the new Dillons fuel center at 4th and Plum in Hutchinson Friday afternoon.

"This investment here is about a $1.5 million investment for us," said Steve Dreher, Dillons division president. "Over the last ten years, as we've grown as a company, we've spent well over $200 million with all of our stores. We just continue to keep growing, keep building on what we've had and the success we've had."

Those who use the store this weekend who are Dillons Card members get an additional 20 cents off per gallon of gas over and above their fuel reward points.

"It takes a village of all of us working together, not only for economic recovery, but to move forward for development," said Sheila Regehr with Dillons. "It's so exciting to be here today to welcome this new fuel center."

Also, as part of the ribbon cutting, Dillons did a check presentation of its employees pledges to the Reno County United Way. Employees in Hutchinson have pledged $85,954 to the United Way's annual campaign.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619811521513.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Dillons and the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at the new Dillons fuel center at 4th and Plum in Hutchinson Friday afternoon."This investment here is about a $1.5 million investment for us," said Steve Dreher, Dillons division president. "Over the last ten years, as we've grown as a company, we've spent well over $200 million with all of our stores. We just continue to keep growing, keep building on what we've had and the success we've had."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619811449226.jpeg" alt="Steve Dreher-Dillons" />
 <figcaption>Steve Dreher-Dillons</figcaption>
 </figure>Those who use the store this weekend who are Dillons Card members get an additional 20 cents off per gallon of gas over and above their fuel reward points."It takes a village of all of us working together, not only for economic recovery, but to move forward for development," said Sheila Regehr with Dillons. "It's so exciting to be here today to welcome this new fuel center."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619811488625.jpeg" alt="Fuel Center Check-Dillons" />
 <figcaption>Fuel Center Check-Dillons</figcaption>
 </figure>Also, as part of the ribbon cutting, Dillons did a check presentation of its employees pledges to the Reno County United Way. Employees in Hutchinson have pledged $85,954 to the United Way's annual campaign.

Dillons fuel center now open at 4th and Plum

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man sentenced to at least 48 years in prison on a first-degree murder conviction has had his next court date set on Friday.

On Friday morning, Reno County District Court Judge Trish Rose set a motion date of June 30 for the case.  All motions by both sides are to be filed by that date. There will be a status hearing on August 6 at 8:30 a.m. to set a date to hear the motions.

Charles Christopher Logsdon had his case remanded back to Reno County District Court by the Supreme Court in July of 2020, citing issues regarding ineffective counsel.

Logsdon was originally convicted of intentional first-degree murder in the 2011 shooting death of Jennifer Heckel in her home. The shooting was said to be a case of mistaken identity. 

Logsdon claims the defense failed to call 15 witnesses that could prove his innocence. The list includes cellmates, people he claims were with him the night of the murder, and a neighbor of Heckel who says she saw a white male in the victim's backyard a week before the murder.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619640794541.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man sentenced to at least 48 years in prison on a first-degree murder conviction has had his next court date set on Friday.On Friday morning, Reno County District Court Judge Trish Rose set a motion date of June 30 for the case. All motions by both sides are to be filed by that date. There will be a status hearing on August 6 at 8:30 a.m. to set a date to hear the motions.Charles Christopher Logsdon had his case remanded back to Reno County District Court by the Supreme Court in July of 2020, citing issues regarding ineffective counsel.Logsdon was originally convicted of intentional first-degree murder in the 2011 shooting death of Jennifer Heckel in her home. The shooting was said to be a case of mistaken identity. Logsdon claims the defense failed to call 15 witnesses that could prove his innocence. The list includes cellmates, people he claims were with him the night of the murder, and a neighbor of Heckel who says she saw a white male in the victim's backyard a week before the murder.&nbsp;

Next court date set in Logsdon case


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Debra Teufel with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce talked to the Board of Reno County Commissioners this week about where industrial economic development needs to go next.

"We really do need to start working on certified sites that are larger in scope," Teufel told the commission. "We only have 118 acres left in our industrial park and it's configured in a way that there isn't any one parcel that you can achieve a 100 acre site."

A current prospect says they need 120 to 160 acres and the city's still going to try, but it will be a challenge.

"Sometimes prospects think they know what they need and then later, that need changes," Teufel said. "We're going to go ahead and submit the enterprise industrial park. A lot of the work that we're going to be doing with the communities over the next year is really identifying that next phase of where industrial park land is available in our community."

Teufel explained the landlocked nature of the current park.

"If you've been out to the Enterprise Industrial Park, you know that Cargill has land on the west, we have a borrow pit that was sold off for Highway 50 development on the east and Highway 50 on the south and then all of Siemens facility on the north, so it really is landlocked for projects that are larger in scope."

Teufel told the commission they would be working with their infrastructure partners on how to address the issue in the coming year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580397097469.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Debra Teufel with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce talked to the Board of Reno County Commissioners this week about where industrial economic development needs to go next."We really do need to start working on certified sites that are larger in scope," Teufel told the commission. "We only have 118 acres left in our industrial park and it's configured in a way that there isn't any one parcel that you can achieve a 100 acre site."A current prospect says they need 120 to 160 acres and the city's still going to try, but it will be a challenge."Sometimes prospects think they know what they need and then later, that need changes," Teufel said. "We're going to go ahead and submit the enterprise industrial park. A lot of the work that we're going to be doing with the communities over the next year is really identifying that next phase of where industrial park land is available in our community."Teufel explained the landlocked nature of the current park."If you've been out to the Enterprise Industrial Park, you know that Cargill has land on the west, we have a borrow pit that was sold off for Highway 50 development on the east and Highway 50 on the south and then all of Siemens facility on the north, so it really is landlocked for projects that are larger in scope."Teufel told the commission they would be working with their infrastructure partners on how to address the issue in the coming year.

Teufel: Reno County needs bigger industrial land parcels


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County schools remain in the yellow for next week. The case count and positive test rate numbers improved somewhat over last week.

According to the county's dashboard, the 14-day positive test rate is at 11.7% as of April 26, with 62 new cases in the past 14 days.

The case count numbers are slightly up from a week ago, with 39 active cases as of Thursday. 7,874 people have had the virus, with 7,696 recoveries.

The Reno County vaccination numbers have been updated for the week, as well. As of Wednesday, 21,803 Reno County residents have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. That's 34.92% of residents.

The county has had 139 deaths attributed to the virus. One of those has occurred in the last 30 days. Three people are in the hospital.

The health department is taking walk-ins for the Moderna vaccine for those 18 and older, or you can find the other types of vaccine at <a href="https://vaccinefinder.org/search/">vaccinefinder.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612955384439.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County schools remain in the yellow for next week. The case count and positive test rate numbers improved somewhat over last week.According to the county's dashboard, the 14-day positive test rate is at 11.7% as of April 26, with 62 new cases in the past 14 days.The case count numbers are slightly up from a week ago, with 39 active cases as of Thursday. 7,874 people have had the virus, with 7,696 recoveries.The Reno County vaccination numbers have been updated for the week, as well. As of Wednesday, 21,803 Reno County residents have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. That's 34.92% of residents.The county has had 139 deaths attributed to the virus. One of those has occurred in the last 30 days. Three people are in the hospital.The health department is taking walk-ins for the Moderna vaccine for those 18 and older, or you can find the other types of vaccine at <a href="https://vaccinefinder.org/search/">vaccinefinder.org</a>.

Positive test rate number down, schools remain in yellow

MARION COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 9:30 p.m. Thursday in Marion County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Hyundai Sonata driven by Veronica A. Crabtree, 64,&nbsp; Peabody, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of U.S. 50 just east of Limestone Road.

The Hyundai struck a 2022 Freightliner truck driven by Sekhon Ranjit&nbsp;Singhjit, 35, Fresno, CA., head-on.

EMS transported Crabtree to Wesley Medical Center. Singh and a passenger in the truck were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610405866466.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MARION COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 9:30 p.m. Thursday in Marion County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Hyundai Sonata driven by Veronica A. Crabtree, 64,&nbsp; Peabody, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of U.S. 50 just east of Limestone Road.The Hyundai struck a 2022 Freightliner truck driven by Sekhon Ranjit&nbsp;Singhjit, 35, Fresno, CA., head-on.EMS transported Crabtree to Wesley Medical Center. Singh and a passenger in the truck were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

Kan. woman hospitalized after wrong-way, head-on crash

SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Public Works announced that two projects that had briefly closed county roads are now complete.&nbsp;

Andre Road between Silver Lake Road and Pretty Prairie Road had been closed earlier this week for bridge repair. 

Also, Longview Road between Victory Road and Haven Road had been closed since late last week for crossroad pipe repair. 

If you have questions about any Reno County Public Works project, call&nbsp;620-694-2976.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602175085989.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Public Works announced that two projects that had briefly closed county roads are now complete.&nbsp;Andre Road between Silver Lake Road and Pretty Prairie Road had been closed earlier this week for bridge repair. Also, Longview Road between Victory Road and Haven Road had been closed since late last week for crossroad pipe repair. Both sections are reopened to traffic.If you have questions about any Reno County Public Works project, call&nbsp;620-694-2976.

Work being finished in county, a couple of roads reopen


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Small Business Administration is making a program available starting Monday to help those who sell food and drink to recover from COVID-19 damage. It's called the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

"There is $28.6 billion that's been appropriated authorizing the SBA to award funds to restaurants, food service companies, caterers, food trucks and not only food service entities, but food and beverage entities," said Wayne Bell with the SBA's Wichita office. "We're talking about bars, salons, lounges, coffee shops, snack shops, bakeries, etc."

This program will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss.

"These are grants," Bell said. "This is not money that's going to have to be paid back. It's really intended to help the businesses to get back in total to where they were before the pandemic."

For the first 21 days that the program is open, the SBA will prioritize funding applications from businesses owned and controlled by women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.

"The maximum awards per location is $5 million, with a cap at $10 million for any entity," Bell said.

There is money set aside for smaller restaurant businesses, as well. $5 billion for applicants with 2019 gross receipts of not more than $500,000; $4 billion is set aside for applicants with 2019 gross receipts from $500,001 to $1,500,000; and $500 million for applicants with 2019 gross receipts not more than $50,000. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/restaurant-revitalization-fund">sba.gov/restaurants</a> or in Spanish at <a href="https://www.sba.gov/programas-de-financiamiento/prestamos/opciones-de-asistencia-por-covid-19/fondo-de-revitalizacion-de-restaurantes">sba.gov/restaurantes</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584386106306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Small Business Administration is making a program available starting Monday to help those who sell food and drink to recover from COVID-19 damage. It's called the Restaurant Revitalization Fund."There is $28.6 billion that's been appropriated authorizing the SBA to award funds to restaurants, food service companies, caterers, food trucks and not only food service entities, but food and beverage entities," said Wayne Bell with the SBA's Wichita office. "We're talking about bars, salons, lounges, coffee shops, snack shops, bakeries, etc."This program will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss."These are grants," Bell said. "This is not money that's going to have to be paid back. It's really intended to help the businesses to get back in total to where they were before the pandemic."For the first 21 days that the program is open, the SBA will prioritize funding applications from businesses owned and controlled by women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals."The maximum awards per location is $5 million, with a cap at $10 million for any entity," Bell said.There is money set aside for smaller restaurant businesses, as well. $5 billion for applicants with 2019 gross receipts of not more than $500,000; $4 billion is set aside for applicants with 2019 gross receipts from $500,001 to $1,500,000; and $500 million for applicants with 2019 gross receipts not more than $50,000. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/restaurant-revitalization-fund">sba.gov/restaurants</a> or in Spanish at <a href="https://www.sba.gov/programas-de-financiamiento/prestamos/opciones-de-asistencia-por-covid-19/fondo-de-revitalizacion-de-restaurantes">sba.gov/restaurantes</a>.

Restaurant Revitalization Fund to attempt to help with pandemic expenses

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Hutchinson High School’s vocal music, band and orchestra students participated in the state virtual music festivals this April with students being successful.

With COVID-19 rules in place for all KSHSAA, activities the music festival was changed to virtual. Participants had to have the performance video and music submitted online.&nbsp; The judging was then done using those uploaded files, using the same five rating scales.

A “I” rating being the top rating down to a “V” (five) as the lowest.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hutchinson Harmonics, I (with a perfect score)&nbsp;

Hutchinson Chamber Choir (subset of Expressive singers), I&nbsp;

Hutchinson Womens Chorus (expressive and Harmonics Women combined), I&nbsp;

Noah Buller&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ella Yoder&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amanda Goering&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ainsley Trunkhill

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668902902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Hutchinson High School’s vocal music, band and orchestra students participated in the state virtual music festivals this April with students being successful.With COVID-19 rules in place for all KSHSAA, activities the music festival was changed to virtual. Participants had to have the performance video and music submitted online.&nbsp; The judging was then done using those uploaded files, using the same five rating scales.A “I” rating being the top rating down to a “V” (five) as the lowest.&nbsp; &nbsp;Vocal MusicNardazia Sims, I&nbsp;Yaribeth Gallegos, II&nbsp;Raine Mathis, III&nbsp;Emma Graf, II&nbsp;Emily Baker, I&nbsp;Zoie Warden-Scott, I&nbsp;Olivia Self, I&nbsp;Xavier Jameson, I&nbsp;Renee Huffman, I&nbsp;Expressive Women, I&nbsp;Hutchinson Expressives, I&nbsp;Hutchinson Expressive Men, I&nbsp;Hutchinson Harmonics, I (with a perfect score)&nbsp;Hutchinson Salon Quartet, II&nbsp;Belle Voce, II&nbsp;Hutchinson Chamber Choir (subset of Expressive singers), I&nbsp;Hutchinson Womens Chorus (expressive and Harmonics Women combined), I&nbsp;Karley Keast, comments only&nbsp;BandBrass Trio I RatingAidan MinnerPreston ReedDaven HeltonElla Yoder, Piano Solo I RatingWill Jackson, Piano Solo I RatingAidan Minner, Tuba Solo I RatingPercussion Ensemble, I RatingNoah Buller&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ella Yoder&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amanda Goering&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ainsley TrunkhillOrchestraAllegretto Quartet, II"Fair" Quartet, IIGrieg Quartet, ILully Quartet, IIIMozart String Quartet, IIPurron Quartet, IConcert Orchestra M-Z Ensemble, IISymphonic A-L Ensemble, IIISymphonic Orchestra M-Z Ensemble, IINicole Williamson, Cello Solo, IIMadilyn Yantes, Violin Solo, IIKatelyn Wilson, Viola Solo, IIMicah Wenger, Viola Solo, IXavier Jameson, Cello Solo, IRiley Grabs, Violin Solo, IIAidyn Kilman, Cello Solo, IIMariana Inchauriga, Violin Solo, IIIMorgan Hixson, Viola Solo, ICaden Hendrix, Violin Solo, I

HHS musicians excel at festivals

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A quiet noon hour at the 14th and Main Dillons was disrupted by PETA protesters Thursday.

Three protesters arrived in a white rental van just before noon. Marley Delgado, Luis Correal and a member who wished to remain anonymous unloaded two wheelbarrows filled with coconuts.

Correal and the anonymous supporter were dressed in monkey outfits to protest Chaokoh, a brand that PETA says uses monkeys to inhumanely pick coconuts in Thailand.

PETA supporter Marley Delgado said the trio was there "urging the company to stop profiting off forced monkey labor." Delgado says a PETA Asia investigation found the coconut industry is using monkey labor to pick the coconuts and traced it back to Chaokoh. The group is asking Kroger to remove the brand from all of its stores.

The Dillons location was blindsided. The manager on duty was simply covering for a store that currently does not have a manager. The manager on duty called the local media contact, Sheila Regehr, and she began her journey to the store.

"Dillons supports cruel monkey labor," the trio chanted. "There's no excuse for animal abuse," they added.

Shoppers were surprised to see the disruption. One shopper who wishes to remain anonymous called it a waste of time. "I don't want to lose my fuel points!" the shopper said when asked for a name. He questioned why the demonstration was not at the courthouse or a distribution center.

Supporters chose the Main Street location because it faced a busy street and had a public sidewalk that entered the store.

PETA plans to visit more Kroger-owned stores until it joins the likes of 28,000 other stores that have stopped profiting off cruel, forced monkey labor.

"The coconuts that are in Chaokoh are picked by monkeys who are stolen from their families just as babies. They're kept caged and chained their whole lives. They can sometimes have their canine teeth removed so they're unable to defend themselves. And they are forced to pick coconuts all during the harvest season," Delgado said.

None of the protesters are from Hutchinson. In fact, none of them are from Kansas. Delgado is from Denver, Colorado, while Correal is from Atlanta, Georgia. The unnamed member hails from Portland, Oregon. The trio arrived in Hutchinson Wednesday and purchased the ethically-sourced coconuts that were picked humanely, then scattered in front of the Dillons entrance.

Delgado confirmed the group would pick up the coconuts after the demonstration. She said the coconuts would then be donated.

About 30 minutes into the planned one-hour demonstration, Sheila Regehr of Dillons showed up on the scene. She kindly asked the protesters to move the demonstration to a public place.

Regehr declined to comment on the situation until a proper statement could be released to the media.

Around 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Regehr released the following statement:

“Kroger has a longstanding commitment to responsible business practices, including the humane treatment of animals. We have re-engaged our suppliers, as well as other stakeholders, on this issue to re-confirm they are also protecting animal welfare.”

<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/2021/4/1619718610651.jpeg" alt="PETA supporters showed up at the 14th and Main Dillons location Thursday to protest monkey abuse. Supporters chanted against monkey abuse carried out in Thailand by a coconut milk brand." />
 <figcaption>PETA supporters showed up at the 14th and Main Dillons location Thursday to protest monkey abuse. Supporters chanted against monkey abuse carried out in Thailand by a coconut milk brand.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;By DAREN DUNNHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A quiet noon hour at the 14th and Main Dillons was disrupted by PETA protesters Thursday.Three protesters arrived in a white rental van just before noon. Marley Delgado, Luis Correal and a member who wished to remain anonymous unloaded two wheelbarrows filled with coconuts.Correal and the anonymous supporter were dressed in monkey outfits to protest Chaokoh, a brand that PETA says uses monkeys to inhumanely pick coconuts in Thailand.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619719018508.jpeg" alt="The coconut milk from Chaokoh is sold at Dillons on 14th and Main. This is the only product PETA organizers were protesting against." />
 <figcaption>The coconut milk from Chaokoh is sold at Dillons on 14th and Main. This is the only product PETA organizers were protesting against.</figcaption>
 </figure>PETA supporter Marley Delgado said the trio was there "urging the company to stop profiting off forced monkey labor." Delgado says a PETA Asia investigation found the coconut industry is using monkey labor to pick the coconuts and traced it back to Chaokoh. The group is asking Kroger to remove the brand from all of its stores.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619719964870.jpeg" alt="PETA members arrive at Dillons Thursday. The members arrived just before the noon hour in a white rental van." />
 <figcaption>PETA members arrive at Dillons Thursday. The members arrived just before the noon hour in a white rental van.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Dillons location was blindsided. The manager on duty was simply covering for a store that currently does not have a manager. The manager on duty called the local media contact, Sheila Regehr, and she began her journey to the store."Dillons supports cruel monkey labor," the trio chanted. "There's no excuse for animal abuse," they added.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHutchPost%2Fvideos%2F244645644085991%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Shoppers were surprised to see the disruption. One shopper who wishes to remain anonymous called it a waste of time. "I don't want to lose my fuel points!" the shopper said when asked for a name. He questioned why the demonstration was not at the courthouse or a distribution center.Supporters chose the Main Street location because it faced a busy street and had a public sidewalk that entered the store.PETA plans to visit more Kroger-owned stores until it joins the likes of 28,000 other stores that have stopped profiting off cruel, forced monkey labor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619720908511.jpeg" alt="PETA protesters chant different phrases against monkey labor Thursday in front of Dillons on Main Street. Organizers said monkeys used by Chaokoh are caged and chained their whole lives." />
 <figcaption>PETA protesters chant different phrases against monkey labor Thursday in front of Dillons on Main Street. Organizers said monkeys used by Chaokoh are caged and chained their whole lives.</figcaption>
 </figure>"The coconuts that are in Chaokoh are picked by monkeys who are stolen from their families just as babies. They're kept caged and chained their whole lives. They can sometimes have their canine teeth removed so they're unable to defend themselves. And they are forced to pick coconuts all during the harvest season," Delgado said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619719935320.jpeg" alt="Luis Correal holds a sign condemning the use of monkey labor. Protesters chanted, "Dillons supports cruel monkey labor," and "There's no excuse for animal abuse," while in front of the store." />
 <figcaption>Luis Correal holds a sign condemning the use of monkey labor. Protesters chanted, "Dillons supports cruel monkey labor," and "There's no excuse for animal abuse," while in front of the store.</figcaption>
 </figure>None of the protesters are from Hutchinson. In fact, none of them are from Kansas. Delgado is from Denver, Colorado, while Correal is from Atlanta, Georgia. The unnamed member hails from Portland, Oregon. The trio arrived in Hutchinson Wednesday and purchased the ethically-sourced coconuts that were picked humanely, then scattered in front of the Dillons entrance.Delgado confirmed the group would pick up the coconuts after the demonstration. She said the coconuts would then be donated.About 30 minutes into the planned one-hour demonstration, Sheila Regehr of Dillons showed up on the scene. She kindly asked the protesters to move the demonstration to a public place.Regehr declined to comment on the situation until a proper statement could be released to the media.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHutchPost%2Fvideos%2F533109204743492%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Around 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Regehr released the following statement:“Kroger has a longstanding commitment to responsible business practices, including the humane treatment of animals. We have re-engaged our suppliers, as well as other stakeholders, on this issue to re-confirm they are also protecting animal welfare.”<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;

PETA supporters dressed as monkeys protest at Dillons


BARTON COUNTY and RICE COUNTY — 
An asphalt crack repair project is expected to begin around May 10 on U.S. 56 in part of Barton and Rice counties.

The Barton County portion of the Kansas Department of Transportation project will be from the east city limits of Ellinwood to the Rice County line. The length is 4.65 miles.

The Rice County section of the work will be from the Barton County line to the west city limits of Lyons. The length is 13.73 miles.

During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be prepared to stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes.

The project is expected to be completed around May 28, depending on the weather.

Mission Construction Co. Inc., of St. Paul, Kansas, is the primary contractor for the $99,810 project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619713962922.png" alt="BartonandRiceProject" />
 <figcaption>BartonandRiceProject</figcaption>
 </figure>
BARTON COUNTY and RICE COUNTY — 
An asphalt crack repair project is expected to begin around May 10 on U.S. 56 in part of Barton and Rice counties.The Barton County portion of the Kansas Department of Transportation project will be from the east city limits of Ellinwood to the Rice County line. The length is 4.65 miles.The Rice County section of the work will be from the Barton County line to the west city limits of Lyons. The length is 13.73 miles.During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be prepared to stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes.The project is expected to be completed around May 28, depending on the weather.Mission Construction Co. Inc., of St. Paul, Kansas, is the primary contractor for the $99,810 project.

Highway 56 crack repair project to start May 10

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Official charges have been filed against a Hutchinson man now accused in an April 13 armed robbery.

Juan Dominguez was charged in Reno County District Court Thursday. 

The state says that Dominguez stole miscellaneous clothing, an Apple watch, an&nbsp;iPhone, a Visa card and $60.00 from the victim while armed with a handgun.

A juvenile who led police on a chase that night is also believed to be connected to the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565573743623.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Official charges have been filed against a Hutchinson man now accused in an April 13 armed robbery.Juan Dominguez was charged in Reno County District Court Thursday. The state says that Dominguez stole miscellaneous clothing, an Apple watch, an&nbsp;iPhone, a Visa card and $60.00 from the victim while armed with a handgun.A juvenile who led police on a chase that night is also believed to be connected to the incident.

Hutchinson man charged in April 13 robbery

HUTCHINSON – In the interests of continuing safe practices, Hutchinson Community College has made modifications for its annual commencement. These modifications involve holding two ceremonies instead of the traditional single event, social-distancing the graduate seating, limiting the number of guests able to attend and providing masks to all graduates and attendees.

“The academic achievements of our students deserve to be properly recognized and celebrated”, stated HutchCC President Dr. Carter File. “Toward this goal we are excited to return to an in person commencement with two ceremonies on Friday, April 30 at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm.”

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2wVrbPQc6M">The 4:00 pm ceremony will recognize those students graduating with an Associate of Applied Science and/or Certificates of Technical Education.</a>

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKqQT7unDbM">Those graduating with an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science and/or an Associate of General Studies degree will be honored at the 7:00 pm ceremony. </a>

Each graduate has been provided a limited number of tickets to distribute to guests.

For more information on Hutchinson Community College’s commencement and for links to the ceremonies, visit <a href="https://hutchcc.edu/graduation">www.hutchcc.edu/graduation</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604805171900.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON – In the interests of continuing safe practices, Hutchinson Community College has made modifications for its annual commencement. These modifications involve holding two ceremonies instead of the traditional single event, social-distancing the graduate seating, limiting the number of guests able to attend and providing masks to all graduates and attendees.“The academic achievements of our students deserve to be properly recognized and celebrated”, stated HutchCC President Dr. Carter File. “Toward this goal we are excited to return to an in person commencement with two ceremonies on Friday, April 30 at 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm.”<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2wVrbPQc6M">The 4:00 pm ceremony will recognize those students graduating with an Associate of Applied Science and/or Certificates of Technical Education.</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKqQT7unDbM">Those graduating with an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science and/or an Associate of General Studies degree will be honored at the 7:00 pm ceremony. </a>Each graduate has been provided a limited number of tickets to distribute to guests.For more information on Hutchinson Community College’s commencement and for links to the ceremonies, visit <a href="https://hutchcc.edu/graduation">www.hutchcc.edu/graduation</a>.

HutchCC releases Friday commencement plans


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann says the optics of Wednesday night's speech by President Joe Biden did not send the right message to the country.

"Everyone in Congress that wants to be vaccinated has been," Mann said. "Everybody sitting six feet apart, that image is not what we want to portray to America. It's time to get through this pandemic. It's time to take the masks off. It is time to move forward, return to regular orders in the Congress."

Mann sees the pandemic as the pretext for expansion of government.

"We've seen that accelerated the last four months, the last 100 days of the Biden administration," Mann said. "First off was the American Rescue Plan, which was $1.9 trillion. Only nine percent went to actual COVID health relief. The rest went to other things. Money we don't have, spending it on things we don't need. Then, a more than $2 trillion infrastructure proposal, then last night, the American Families Plan, another $2 trillion. That totals $6 trillion on top of the almost $30 trillion in debt we already have."

The plan is being touted as only having an effect on those with high incomes, over $400,000 a year.

"This is the largest tax increase proposed in a generation," Mann said. "It's very concerning, because it will affect everybody. It has to. Most of those folks employ other people. This notion that it's going to impact a few but not everybody else, is just simply not true. The corporate tax rate as proposed would be higher than communist China."

Mann believes there is a good chance that Republicans could retake the House in 2022, because he says the country doesn't want to see this expansive growth of government. That would leave a very small window for Biden's agenda to get through Congress at all.

Below is the interview with Congressman Mann in its entirety...

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611836622184.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann says the optics of Wednesday night's speech by President Joe Biden did not send the right message to the country."Everyone in Congress that wants to be vaccinated has been," Mann said. "Everybody sitting six feet apart, that image is not what we want to portray to America. It's time to get through this pandemic. It's time to take the masks off. It is time to move forward, return to regular orders in the Congress."Mann sees the pandemic as the pretext for expansion of government."We've seen that accelerated the last four months, the last 100 days of the Biden administration," Mann said. "First off was the American Rescue Plan, which was $1.9 trillion. Only nine percent went to actual COVID health relief. The rest went to other things. Money we don't have, spending it on things we don't need. Then, a more than $2 trillion infrastructure proposal, then last night, the American Families Plan, another $2 trillion. That totals $6 trillion on top of the almost $30 trillion in debt we already have."The plan is being touted as only having an effect on those with high incomes, over $400,000 a year."This is the largest tax increase proposed in a generation," Mann said. "It's very concerning, because it will affect everybody. It has to. Most of those folks employ other people. This notion that it's going to impact a few but not everybody else, is just simply not true. The corporate tax rate as proposed would be higher than communist China."Mann believes there is a good chance that Republicans could retake the House in 2022, because he says the country doesn't want to see this expansive growth of government. That would leave a very small window for Biden's agenda to get through Congress at all.Below is the interview with Congressman Mann in its entirety...<div><iframe title="April 29, 2021 Congressman Tracey Mann" 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=bmnae-10215c3-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

Mann: Expansion of government proposed in Biden speech 'will affect everybody'


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — President Joe Biden is proposing two years of free community college as part of his $1.8 trillion American Families Plan. 

"Hutchinson Community College is in favor of anything that lowers the cost of education for students," said HCC President Carter File. "Until I see the details of the plan, it's difficult to give you a fair read on it, but if it helps students complete and it helps students lower their attendance costs, I don't think that anybody can argue with that."

It's not as if federal aid isn't already a huge part of what helps the college to function.

"Because of our cost structure, we have a number of students, probably over half of our students, receive some form of federal financial aid," File said. "Many are already attending, tuition and fees paid, because of the Pell Grant. The Pell Grant will cover our tuition, fees and in many cases, books, anyway."

File knows that the devil is in the details, but an expansion of current federal programs would probably be the way that would be the most seamless with what they currently do.

"The infrastructure is already in place," File said. "We have a federal financial aid office that already assists students in getting federal aid. It would seem that if they expanded eligibility under another program, such as the Pell Grant or a loan with some kind of loan forgiveness on the back end, it makes sense that that would make it more flexible, rather than writing something from scratch."

What a final version of the plan will look like by the time it makes it to the President's desk, if it gets that far, remains to be seen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="Hutch cc dragon logo.png" />
 <figcaption>Hutch cc dragon logo.png</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — President Joe Biden is proposing two years of free community college as part of his $1.8 trillion American Families Plan. "Hutchinson Community College is in favor of anything that lowers the cost of education for students," said HCC President Carter File. "Until I see the details of the plan, it's difficult to give you a fair read on it, but if it helps students complete and it helps students lower their attendance costs, I don't think that anybody can argue with that."It's not as if federal aid isn't already a huge part of what helps the college to function."Because of our cost structure, we have a number of students, probably over half of our students, receive some form of federal financial aid," File said. "Many are already attending, tuition and fees paid, because of the Pell Grant. The Pell Grant will cover our tuition, fees and in many cases, books, anyway."File knows that the devil is in the details, but an expansion of current federal programs would probably be the way that would be the most seamless with what they currently do."The infrastructure is already in place," File said. "We have a federal financial aid office that already assists students in getting federal aid. It would seem that if they expanded eligibility under another program, such as the Pell Grant or a loan with some kind of loan forgiveness on the back end, it makes sense that that would make it more flexible, rather than writing something from scratch."What a final version of the plan will look like by the time it makes it to the President's desk, if it gets that far, remains to be seen.

HutchCC President wants to see details on Biden proposal

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.<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.

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Cosmosphere joins the Nation and the World in grieving the loss of Astronaut Michael Collins, who died earlier Wednesday. A tribute to Collins has been&nbsp; created adjacent to the Gemini X capsule, in which Collins and John Young flew in 1966 and which is a part&nbsp; of the Cosmosphere collection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2016, Collins and his daughters, Kate and Ann, visited the Cosmosphere to celebrate the 50th&nbsp; Anniversary of the Gemini X Mission. As part of his day at the Cosmosphere, Collins chose to spend an&nbsp; hour with young people making paper airplanes. He also met with a group of Scouts and with&nbsp; Cosmosphere campers back from a travel camp. At dinner that night, he and his daughters shared stories&nbsp; with the crowd of 150 gathered at the Cosmosphere.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The unique thing about Mike's stories was that they focused on bigger ideas, or on other people and on&nbsp; the importance of things like self-expression and literacy,” Mimi Meredith, Cosmosphere Senior VP of&nbsp; Communication and Chief Development Officer said. “He seldom talked about himself or his achievements.&nbsp; We will remember the qualities he shared of humility, teamwork, courage, wisdom, tenacity, humor and&nbsp; an appreciation of beauty. He didn’t think Astronauts should be called heroes, but he is a hero to us.”&nbsp;

The Collins tribute will be left up through the coming week. Cosmosphere visitors are encouraged to sign&nbsp; a guest book and to share a memory or message for the Collins family.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619645358263.jpeg" alt="Gemini 10 and Apollo 11 Astronaut Michael Collins chats with youth during a visit to the space museum in 2016. Collins was on hand to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the&nbsp; Gemini 10 space mission that he flew with John Young in 1966." />
 <figcaption>Gemini 10 and Apollo 11 Astronaut Michael Collins chats with youth during a visit to the space museum in 2016. Collins was on hand to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the&nbsp; Gemini 10 space mission that he flew with John Young in 1966.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Cosmosphere joins the Nation and the World in grieving the loss of Astronaut Michael Collins, who died earlier Wednesday. A tribute to Collins has been&nbsp; created adjacent to the Gemini X capsule, in which Collins and John Young flew in 1966 and which is a part&nbsp; of the Cosmosphere collection.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2016, Collins and his daughters, Kate and Ann, visited the Cosmosphere to celebrate the 50th&nbsp; Anniversary of the Gemini X Mission. As part of his day at the Cosmosphere, Collins chose to spend an&nbsp; hour with young people making paper airplanes. He also met with a group of Scouts and with&nbsp; Cosmosphere campers back from a travel camp. At dinner that night, he and his daughters shared stories&nbsp; with the crowd of 150 gathered at the Cosmosphere.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The unique thing about Mike's stories was that they focused on bigger ideas, or on other people and on&nbsp; the importance of things like self-expression and literacy,” Mimi Meredith, Cosmosphere Senior VP of&nbsp; Communication and Chief Development Officer said. “He seldom talked about himself or his achievements.&nbsp; We will remember the qualities he shared of humility, teamwork, courage, wisdom, tenacity, humor and&nbsp; an appreciation of beauty. He didn’t think Astronauts should be called heroes, but he is a hero to us.”&nbsp;The Collins tribute will be left up through the coming week. Cosmosphere visitors are encouraged to sign&nbsp; a guest book and to share a memory or message for the Collins family.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Cosmosphere remembers Astronaut Michael Collins

NICKERSON, Kan. — Nothing has been set in stone, but discussions have started again with the Nickerson School Board about bringing a bond issue back to voters.

The discussions are very preliminary, according to Assistant Superintendent Penny Stoss, but talk has happened. A $30 million bond issue failed in November 2019, gathering just 20% of the vote. It also divided the school board and the district as a whole.&nbsp;

Many wanted a smaller version of the bond issue, which was turned down in a split vote of the board. Those in favor of the high bond issue felt that the smaller proposal would only have them coming back again in 10 years, while opponents of the larger number felt it was just too much for the small district to handle.

Such discussion is also being watched by the city of Nickerson as officials work to extend the current $0.01 sales tax used for park and sewer improvements. That would need to come before voters in November. How a bond issue would affect the ability to get the sales tax extended is not known, but City Clerk April Beshears says they are keeping an eye on it.

Stoss could not elaborate on any discussion, but did say the board made finding someone who could lead a bond issue a priority in the search for a new superintendent. That now falls on the shoulders of Curtis Nightingale, who takes the reins of the district July 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943325915.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — Nothing has been set in stone, but discussions have started again with the Nickerson School Board about bringing a bond issue back to voters.The discussions are very preliminary, according to Assistant Superintendent Penny Stoss, but talk has happened. A $30 million bond issue failed in November 2019, gathering just 20% of the vote. It also divided the school board and the district as a whole.&nbsp;Many wanted a smaller version of the bond issue, which was turned down in a split vote of the board. Those in favor of the high bond issue felt that the smaller proposal would only have them coming back again in 10 years, while opponents of the larger number felt it was just too much for the small district to handle.Such discussion is also being watched by the city of Nickerson as officials work to extend the current $0.01 sales tax used for park and sewer improvements. That would need to come before voters in November. How a bond issue would affect the ability to get the sales tax extended is not known, but City Clerk April Beshears says they are keeping an eye on it.Stoss could not elaborate on any discussion, but did say the board made finding someone who could lead a bond issue a priority in the search for a new superintendent. That now falls on the shoulders of Curtis Nightingale, who takes the reins of the district July 1.<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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