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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </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. — Prairie Star Health Center is receiving a major financial grant.&nbsp;

Senator Jerry Moran announced Monday that Prairie Star and seven others in Kansas are dividing up $19.5&nbsp; million in grants to help with the COVID-19 pandemic. Prairie Star will receive $2.3 million.

“As we work to end the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s imperative that local health care centers are equipped to continue providing primary care services, easing the burden the pandemic has placed on our hospitals,” Moran said. “These grants are an investment into the health care clinics that keep our Kansas families healthy.”

The funds were made available from the Department of Health and Human Services.

<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/2020/4/1586803833983.png" alt="Prairie star logo.png" />
 <figcaption>Prairie star logo.png</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Prairie Star Health Center is receiving a major financial grant.&nbsp;Senator Jerry Moran announced Monday that Prairie Star and seven others in Kansas are dividing up $19.5&nbsp; million in grants to help with the COVID-19 pandemic. Prairie Star will receive $2.3 million.“As we work to end the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s imperative that local health care centers are equipped to continue providing primary care services, easing the burden the pandemic has placed on our hospitals,” Moran said. “These grants are an investment into the health care clinics that keep our Kansas families healthy.”The funds were made available from the Department of Health and Human Services.<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;

Prairie Star receives COVID grant

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A special fundraiser is coming up this Thursday to benefit the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.&nbsp;

Kris Rotunda, from Jordan’s Way, will be at the Hutchinson Animal Shelter from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Jordan’s Way is an organization dedicated to helping animals at shelters and is traveling to all 50 states to visit different shelters and host web-based, upbeat, high energy fundraising events.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hutchinson Animal Shelter was selected to be a shelter that they will visit and host an online live fundraiser event.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jordan’s Way has been featured on many national tv shows and channels, to include the Hallmark Channel.&nbsp; There will be multiple competitions to generate donations during their time at the Hutchinson Shelter which will be featured on Facebook Live both through the Hutchinson Animal Shelter Facebook page, but also nationally through the Jordan’s Way platform.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616516679772.jpeg" alt="Animal Shelter.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Animal Shelter.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A special fundraiser is coming up this Thursday to benefit the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.&nbsp;Kris Rotunda, from Jordan’s Way, will be at the Hutchinson Animal Shelter from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Jordan’s Way is an organization dedicated to helping animals at shelters and is traveling to all 50 states to visit different shelters and host web-based, upbeat, high energy fundraising events.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Hutchinson Animal Shelter was selected to be a shelter that they will visit and host an online live fundraiser event.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jordan’s Way has been featured on many national tv shows and channels, to include the Hallmark Channel.&nbsp; There will be multiple competitions to generate donations during their time at the Hutchinson Shelter which will be featured on Facebook Live both through the Hutchinson Animal Shelter Facebook page, but also nationally through the Jordan’s Way platform.<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;

Jordan's Way coming to Hutchinson Animal Shelter

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 will hold its final preschool application clinic this Thursday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Buhler Grade School.

The district offers free half-day preschool for both 3 and 4-year-olds at all three elementary schools along with low cost child care.

Even if you intend for your child to attend Plum Creek or Union Valley this year you can still apply at Buhler Grade School.&nbsp;

Preschool sessions run from 7:45 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. and then in the afternoon from&nbsp;11:45 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. Lunch is served to both sessions with normal lunch and breakfast fees. For more information you can go to <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usd313.org%2Fapps%2Fnews%2Farticle%2F1380271%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2KSj3OxN_qRaPOycsWy5Z0mwPT60pQRU92U0pPuF7LHIuykOXLXbsnmjY&amp;h=AT37NPzOcyWXjR0JV5Xi6JEsL0ukLryIKPD6ZVZYWUi6EPS2piY8EfX03eVRwluSxegS-6eJr38jHdZyyEYm0LuB1mcyRPZ0CcTZ7JRZx8XM-Ir3atPff8DySPkGcSE1Mpnu&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3Oupmi70-TUw3hd4YlrXIToU2kdDExKW91Ww0XHfcBa6Rb0QHAtIi5Rdyt236Nqo3G7C5N1Sf5cTCDr8Dl625BZ-xhQdh-Lb6C6f94u-Jr1-hoEhpVsRo2mC9IEFEYtAbMGLDET3NbXCvKf3XZV3GFs7XwwziB4dlRw-Bbuz0U4wRowRhfcNoXdUMBOuj7UER1FLs">usd313.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 will hold its final preschool application clinic this Thursday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Buhler Grade School.The district offers free half-day preschool for both 3 and 4-year-olds at all three elementary schools along with low cost child care.Even if you intend for your child to attend Plum Creek or Union Valley this year you can still apply at Buhler Grade School.&nbsp;Preschool sessions run from 7:45 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. and then in the afternoon from&nbsp;11:45 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. Lunch is served to both sessions with normal lunch and breakfast fees. For more information you can go to <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usd313.org%2Fapps%2Fnews%2Farticle%2F1380271%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2KSj3OxN_qRaPOycsWy5Z0mwPT60pQRU92U0pPuF7LHIuykOXLXbsnmjY&amp;h=AT37NPzOcyWXjR0JV5Xi6JEsL0ukLryIKPD6ZVZYWUi6EPS2piY8EfX03eVRwluSxegS-6eJr38jHdZyyEYm0LuB1mcyRPZ0CcTZ7JRZx8XM-Ir3atPff8DySPkGcSE1Mpnu&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3Oupmi70-TUw3hd4YlrXIToU2kdDExKW91Ww0XHfcBa6Rb0QHAtIi5Rdyt236Nqo3G7C5N1Sf5cTCDr8Dl625BZ-xhQdh-Lb6C6f94u-Jr1-hoEhpVsRo2mC9IEFEYtAbMGLDET3NbXCvKf3XZV3GFs7XwwziB4dlRw-Bbuz0U4wRowRhfcNoXdUMBOuj7UER1FLs">usd313.org</a>.<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 313 preschool application clinic is Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners voted Tuesday 2-1 to opt out of the Governor's Executive order 20-52 and lift the county's mask mandate at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday. With that said, Commission Chair Ron Hirst made himself clear Tuesday.

"Folks, just respect one another," Hirst said. "Respect another business. Follow the proper guidelines. You don't have to try to pull your weight one way or another."

Commissioner Ron Sellers joined the meeting via Zoom from Chicago and quite frankly was surprised the issue came up this week.

"I guess we had an agreement two weeks ago that we would probably remove this on the 30th of this month," Sellers said. "It seems like to me that was an agreement that most of the citizens of Reno County heard all of us say, that we would take this up again. The citizens certainly didn't have notice today that we were even going to discuss this."

Commissioner Daniel Friesen knows he's going out on a limb.

"Number one, if this is the wrong decision, I'll be the first to admit that and take the blame for it," Friesen said. "I do think our community needs to be pushed a little bit on this and I think that's our job, to look at all of the information and say, hey, you know, this is a time we need to maybe move forward and let go of some of our fear. I'm willing to take that again and take that blame."

Dr. Scott Pauly spoke to the Board of Reno County Commissioners before they voted.

"There's no finite line on when to call something an emergency or not," Pauly said. "I would say we're in a better position as we are from a medical standpoint. I just ask the community for buy in and patience and practice with mitigating measures if not through a mandate, on their own, because that will buy us time to get more people immunized and eventually hit some form of a tipping point to protect quote unquote, the herd."

The Commission has noted in its order that individual businesses or churches or other public places can continue to require masks, if they so choose.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975074208.jpeg" alt="Reno County Commission-File Photo" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Commission-File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners voted Tuesday 2-1 to opt out of the Governor's Executive order 20-52 and lift the county's mask mandate at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday. With that said, Commission Chair Ron Hirst made himself clear Tuesday."Folks, just respect one another," Hirst said. "Respect another business. Follow the proper guidelines. You don't have to try to pull your weight one way or another."Commissioner Ron Sellers joined the meeting via Zoom from Chicago and quite frankly was surprised the issue came up this week."I guess we had an agreement two weeks ago that we would probably remove this on the 30th of this month," Sellers said. "It seems like to me that was an agreement that most of the citizens of Reno County heard all of us say, that we would take this up again. The citizens certainly didn't have notice today that we were even going to discuss this."Commissioner Daniel Friesen knows he's going out on a limb."Number one, if this is the wrong decision, I'll be the first to admit that and take the blame for it," Friesen said. "I do think our community needs to be pushed a little bit on this and I think that's our job, to look at all of the information and say, hey, you know, this is a time we need to maybe move forward and let go of some of our fear. I'm willing to take that again and take that blame."Dr. Scott Pauly spoke to the Board of Reno County Commissioners before they voted."There's no finite line on when to call something an emergency or not," Pauly said. "I would say we're in a better position as we are from a medical standpoint. I just ask the community for buy in and patience and practice with mitigating measures if not through a mandate, on their own, because that will buy us time to get more people immunized and eventually hit some form of a tipping point to protect quote unquote, the herd."The Commission has noted in its order that individual businesses or churches or other public places can continue to require masks, if they so choose.

Board of Reno County Commissioners lifts mask mandate as of Wednesday morning

WICHITA — 
A Newton woman was hurt in an accident in Wichita Monday afternoon. 

Around 3 p.m. Monday a 2015 Ford F150 driven by 60-year-old Sandra L. Magner of Wichita slowed on I-135 at milepost 3.6 Northbound because of a pedestrian in the roadway. 

Magner's truck was rear-ended by a 2014 Buick Verano driven by 25-year-old Sarah E. Martin of Newton. 

Magner was not hurt. Martin was taken to Newton Medical Center to be checked out. Both drivers were buckled up.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592922810332.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA — 
A Newton woman was hurt in an accident in Wichita Monday afternoon. Around 3 p.m. Monday a 2015 Ford F150 driven by 60-year-old Sandra L. Magner of Wichita slowed on I-135 at milepost 3.6 Northbound because of a pedestrian in the roadway. Magner's truck was rear-ended by a 2014 Buick Verano driven by 25-year-old Sarah E. Martin of Newton. Magner was not hurt. Martin was taken to Newton Medical Center to be checked out. Both drivers were buckled up.

Newton woman injured in Monday afternoon accident in Wichita

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Are you ready to work in a positive environment where you can have fun helping people? The Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery is looking for you!

Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery has a full-time opening right now for a non-commissioned salesperson. Your job will be knowing the products and helping customers find what they need! Don’t worry, training is provided! This position includes a five-day work week, including Saturdays. You will be off Sundays and paid holidays! Plus, you can earn bonus incentives!

Applications taken from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery, 11 N. Main in downtown Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616439308507.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Are you ready to work in a positive environment where you can have fun helping people? The Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery is looking for you!Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery has a full-time opening right now for a non-commissioned salesperson. Your job will be knowing the products and helping customers find what they need! Don’t worry, training is provided! This position includes a five-day work week, including Saturdays. You will be off Sundays and paid holidays! Plus, you can earn bonus incentives!Applications taken from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery, 11 N. Main in downtown Hutchinson.

State Fair alcohol bill to be debated this afternoon

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper says the department is getting closer to being fully staffed.

“Currently, as I sit right now, I’m 11 officers short, but I have seven officers in the hiring process and so it looks pretty promising,” Hooper said. “I think the majority of them will come on board, so here in the next month or two, we’ll be back into the single digits.”

One thing the new hires mean is a much younger police force with less experience.

“It’s not without its challenge because we lose some of that experience and some people that have been here a long time,” Hooper said. “This is a challenging profession where you’re asking very young men and women to make split-second life or death decisions or they have the power to take people's freedom away by taking them into custody.”

Because of the younger force, Hooper says they are putting in training before and after the recruits do their training at KLETC.

“Before they even go to the academy, we bring them onboard three weeks in advance,” Hooper said. “They have three weeks of training here, they go off to the academy for 14 weeks of training.” Hooper says they then spend another two weeks in the classroom before going out for 16 weeks with another field training officer.

Hooper says he wants to make sure that his staff and officers are able to serve the community and not just be there for law enforcement.

<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/2020/6/1591796149452.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Chief Jeff Hooper." />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Chief Jeff Hooper.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper says the department is getting closer to being fully staffed.“Currently, as I sit right now, I’m 11 officers short, but I have seven officers in the hiring process and so it looks pretty promising,” Hooper said. “I think the majority of them will come on board, so here in the next month or two, we’ll be back into the single digits.”One thing the new hires mean is a much younger police force with less experience.“It’s not without its challenge because we lose some of that experience and some people that have been here a long time,” Hooper said. “This is a challenging profession where you’re asking very young men and women to make split-second life or death decisions or they have the power to take people's freedom away by taking them into custody.”Because of the younger force, Hooper says they are putting in training before and after the recruits do their training at KLETC.“Before they even go to the academy, we bring them onboard three weeks in advance,” Hooper said. “They have three weeks of training here, they go off to the academy for 14 weeks of training.” Hooper says they then spend another two weeks in the classroom before going out for 16 weeks with another field training officer.Hooper says he wants to make sure that his staff and officers are able to serve the community and not just be there for law enforcement.<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;

HPD with seven new officers in pipeline, closer to full staff

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Monday update from the Reno County dashboard shows the case count in the county at 52. 

Out of 7,736 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,547 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. None of the cluster types have documented cases currently visible on the dashboard.

Three Reno County residents are in the hospital with COVID-19. There have been 367 hospitalizations total and 103 ICU admissions. 137 Reno County residents deaths are attributed to the pandemic.

Drive-thru testing is currently available at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson.

The site is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit <a href="https://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612955384439.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Monday update from the Reno County dashboard shows the case count in the county at 52. Out of 7,736 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,547 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. None of the cluster types have documented cases currently visible on the dashboard.Three Reno County residents are in the hospital with COVID-19. There have been 367 hospitalizations total and 103 ICU admissions. 137 Reno County residents deaths are attributed to the pandemic.Drive-thru testing is currently available at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson.The site is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit <a href="https://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com</a>.

Case count down to 52, still no cluster connected cases as of Monday

Ten killed in Colorado grocery store shooting and Hutchinson is closer to a full police force, plus more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ten killed in Colorado grocery store shooting and Hutchinson is closer to a full police force, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="March 23, 2021 Morning News" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=xaubc-fe94da-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

March 23, 2021 Morning News

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman says there is interest in the proposal to start up a virtual school starting next year. The district has applied to the state for the new school, which would be available for any student who wants to learn entirely by remote.

“We have about 20 to 22 students that are saying that they are interested or somewhat interested in continuing with virtual school next year,” Couchman said.

The school would be available for all ages of students and Couchman says they are seeing parents of students from all grade levels showing interest.

“We have about five students that are K to 5 grade levels,” Couchman said. “The rest, roughly 18 to 20, that are grade 6 to 12.”

One thing students must take into account when considering the virtual school is that they will not be a part of the current school system and therefore not eligible for any extracurricular activities.

“When you are enrolled in that school, they do not have extracurricular activities, and so you will not be participating in extracurricular activities,” Couchman said. “Most virtual schools are set up that way because of that, because . . . you have to compete in the school that you are enrolled in.”&nbsp;

Couchman says they want to have all of those interested in virtual school fill out the current survey form available on the district website by May 30.

That survey is available at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.gle%2FiHjwofwQnZ2ZoYav9%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3DOVU7jpESRI0W9qFAeUSDla1RC6xf1tas21ihFEq6Z1lvMAVJTHI7h78&amp;h=AT1pq-7siZj9C2UtJ9B4Tlp4Bs3TmEp08nMJx3NA4DIt5doMNpdgtquU3aADOhBU1Qf75jNWMbBulv7336vycox_1a7NlWPbRhzFmSCKSIyhEHuvLXHESmiI_cyYu8jHioOd&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT21x3x59FtwOLxl-M3tzG0KpVEX_-2fsVupj8SCYuuq7scYgmromdDWJKhu7t_S6aFno7xxe-QMCISmoyyNVvkTLhkQJDb2pHjwyxuJy177BdCW45_SJhItGKpTvwxQJYtXf7hJ6swpevplrbo7li81Rmu052xqOe_DucOd8VBNTeg">https://forms.gle/iHjwofwQnZ2ZoYav9</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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostBUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman says there is interest in the proposal to start up a virtual school starting next year. The district has applied to the state for the new school, which would be available for any student who wants to learn entirely by remote.“We have about 20 to 22 students that are saying that they are interested or somewhat interested in continuing with virtual school next year,” Couchman said.The school would be available for all ages of students and Couchman says they are seeing parents of students from all grade levels showing interest.“We have about five students that are K to 5 grade levels,” Couchman said. “The rest, roughly 18 to 20, that are grade 6 to 12.”One thing students must take into account when considering the virtual school is that they will not be a part of the current school system and therefore not eligible for any extracurricular activities.“When you are enrolled in that school, they do not have extracurricular activities, and so you will not be participating in extracurricular activities,” Couchman said. “Most virtual schools are set up that way because of that, because . . . you have to compete in the school that you are enrolled in.”&nbsp;Couchman says they want to have all of those interested in virtual school fill out the current survey form available on the district website by May 30.That survey is available at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.gle%2FiHjwofwQnZ2ZoYav9%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3DOVU7jpESRI0W9qFAeUSDla1RC6xf1tas21ihFEq6Z1lvMAVJTHI7h78&amp;h=AT1pq-7siZj9C2UtJ9B4Tlp4Bs3TmEp08nMJx3NA4DIt5doMNpdgtquU3aADOhBU1Qf75jNWMbBulv7336vycox_1a7NlWPbRhzFmSCKSIyhEHuvLXHESmiI_cyYu8jHioOd&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT21x3x59FtwOLxl-M3tzG0KpVEX_-2fsVupj8SCYuuq7scYgmromdDWJKhu7t_S6aFno7xxe-QMCISmoyyNVvkTLhkQJDb2pHjwyxuJy177BdCW45_SJhItGKpTvwxQJYtXf7hJ6swpevplrbo7li81Rmu052xqOe_DucOd8VBNTeg">https://forms.gle/iHjwofwQnZ2ZoYav9</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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 313 says there is interest in Ad Astra Virtual School

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — First District Congressman Tracey Mann announced his inaugural 2021 Congressional Art Competition — an opportunity for high school students in the Big First to showcase their artistic talents.

Each spring, a nationwide high school art competition is sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. More than 650,000 high school students have participated in the competition since it began in 1982.

Applications for this year's competition are open and available to all high school students in the First District. All submissions will be reviewed and the winning artwork will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol.&nbsp;

Students and teachers interested in applying or learning more can visit Rep. Mann's website at: <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uJqNuUCx1QNauTYVQn2kqfNLB8GOmc-EIMP2lIPzOXxYDCy_DCoyS0i9XkE7lH8bEYaAiHidhEfCWGT2Ajsc5yk0L2jtaY5ad1SZRFliRUQ7cGxnlJVEbvsPUEx9M_jgboNCDXijNWjHQpWttwgxl0FPfpjUJJS57IM2HcPXJUE1kmikHcDZdw==&amp;c=MdzqigkJ1ZlS-TFkCL7pIiLsZWQ3-841uODbLpPP83c_FmVlgpYiWQ==&amp;ch=Kqp2Qscv1jJPc-t8m3bl1ydvU5G2u4BndAZl3gTgEt_EzYEx4TI1DA==">https://mann.house.gov/services/art-competition</a>. The deadline to enter a submission is April 30.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611747599085.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — First District Congressman Tracey Mann announced his inaugural 2021 Congressional Art Competition — an opportunity for high school students in the Big First to showcase their artistic talents.Each spring, a nationwide high school art competition is sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. More than 650,000 high school students have participated in the competition since it began in 1982.Applications for this year's competition are open and available to all high school students in the First District. All submissions will be reviewed and the winning artwork will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol.&nbsp;Students and teachers interested in applying or learning more can visit Rep. Mann's website at: <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uJqNuUCx1QNauTYVQn2kqfNLB8GOmc-EIMP2lIPzOXxYDCy_DCoyS0i9XkE7lH8bEYaAiHidhEfCWGT2Ajsc5yk0L2jtaY5ad1SZRFliRUQ7cGxnlJVEbvsPUEx9M_jgboNCDXijNWjHQpWttwgxl0FPfpjUJJS57IM2HcPXJUE1kmikHcDZdw==&amp;c=MdzqigkJ1ZlS-TFkCL7pIiLsZWQ3-841uODbLpPP83c_FmVlgpYiWQ==&amp;ch=Kqp2Qscv1jJPc-t8m3bl1ydvU5G2u4BndAZl3gTgEt_EzYEx4TI1DA==">https://mann.house.gov/services/art-competition</a>. The deadline to enter a submission is April 30.<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;

Mann taking applications for congressional art program

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec will once again hold the Central Kansas baseball and softball leagues again this summer.&nbsp;

Leagues are available in softball for ages 8 and under, 10 and under and 14 and under. Baseball will hold leagues for 8 and under, through 14 and under.

The season will include a pre season and postseason tournament along with a 16- game regular season. CKBL and CKFPL are for competitive-level youth baseball and fastpitch teams in the region.&nbsp;

Registration is $550 for 8 and under softball and $625 for ages 10-14. Baseball registration is $550 for 8 and under; $700 for ages 9 through 12 and $725 for Ages 13 and 14.

Registration deadline is this Saturday, March 27. You can register your team in person at Hutch Rec at 17 E 1st or online at hutchrec.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616425759644.jpeg" alt="hutch rec.jpg" />
 <figcaption>hutch rec.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec will once again hold the Central Kansas baseball and softball leagues again this summer.&nbsp;Leagues are available in softball for ages 8 and under, 10 and under and 14 and under. Baseball will hold leagues for 8 and under, through 14 and under.The season will include a pre season and postseason tournament along with a 16- game regular season. CKBL and CKFPL are for competitive-level youth baseball and fastpitch teams in the region.&nbsp;Registration is $550 for 8 and under softball and $625 for ages 10-14. Baseball registration is $550 for 8 and under; $700 for ages 9 through 12 and $725 for Ages 13 and 14.Registration deadline is this Saturday, March 27. You can register your team in person at Hutch Rec at 17 E 1st or online at hutchrec.com.<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 Rec youth league baseball and softball registration deadline is Saturday

Mc PHERSON, Kan. — A McPherson County man who was one of three people convicted in a murder case will have an appeal go before the Superme Court next week.&nbsp;

Samuel Darrah has motioned to withdraw his plea Darrah filed the pro se motion stating that prosecutors failed to protect the crime scene. The trial court denied Darrah's motion, finding he should have raised the issue on direct appeal. The issue on appeal is whether the trial court erred in denying Darrah's post sentencing motion to withdraw plea.

Darrah entered no-contest pleas to one count each of attempted aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, and felony murder int he 2014 death of James Croft. He was sentenced to a hard-25 life sentence and then 100 months' imprisonment and 59 months' imprisonment on the remaining convictions. The Supreme Court affirmed his convictions and sentence in 2019.&nbsp;

Karma Farrell and Clinton Bascue were also convicted of murder and other charges in the case. The three killed Croft after drug dealings between the group went bad. Croft was stabbed and left for dead in a rural area of McPherson County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616432599996.jpeg" alt="Darrah.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Darrah.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Mc PHERSON, Kan. — A McPherson County man who was one of three people convicted in a murder case will have an appeal go before the Superme Court next week.&nbsp;Samuel Darrah has motioned to withdraw his plea Darrah filed the pro se motion stating that prosecutors failed to protect the crime scene. The trial court denied Darrah's motion, finding he should have raised the issue on direct appeal. The issue on appeal is whether the trial court erred in denying Darrah's post sentencing motion to withdraw plea.Darrah entered no-contest pleas to one count each of attempted aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, and felony murder int he 2014 death of James Croft. He was sentenced to a hard-25 life sentence and then 100 months' imprisonment and 59 months' imprisonment on the remaining convictions. The Supreme Court affirmed his convictions and sentence in 2019.&nbsp;Karma Farrell and Clinton Bascue were also convicted of murder and other charges in the case. The three killed Croft after drug dealings between the group went bad. Croft was stabbed and left for dead in a rural area of McPherson County.<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 convicted in murder case has appeal before Supreme Court

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Collins Bus hiring event is coming Friday, March 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 415 W. 6th St. in South Hutchinson.

Immediate interviews and offers on the spot. Competitive pay and excellent benefits are available on day one.

Collins Bus has openings available in assembly, welding, detailing, machine operating, and paint and body. Candidates with experience are highly desirable.

Work a 40-hour week from Monday to Thursday with opportunities for overtime.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://careers.revgroup.com/">www.careers.revgroup.com</a>&nbsp;to apply before the event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616185073483.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Collins Bus hiring event is coming Friday, March 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 415 W. 6th St. in South Hutchinson.Immediate interviews and offers on the spot. Competitive pay and excellent benefits are available on day one.Collins Bus has openings available in assembly, welding, detailing, machine operating, and paint and body. Candidates with experience are highly desirable.Work a 40-hour week from Monday to Thursday with opportunities for overtime.No appointment is necessary.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://careers.revgroup.com/">www.careers.revgroup.com</a>&nbsp;to apply before the event.Face masks are required.

City conducting online survey on resident engagement


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Sadye Patterson, the Hutchinson Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year, is preparing for this week's state competition.

"It will be again this year by Zoom," said Skip Wilson with the Boys and Girls Club. "Tuesday, they are going to have all the candidates around the state get together for a trivia contest. Then on Wednesday, they'll actually have the competition of the interview and the speech."

Patterson is looking forward to the opportunity.

"I'm really excited," Patterson said. "I'm glad I will have this opportunity to share my story of how the Boys and Girls Club has helped me and just what the Boys and Girls Club is all about."

Patterson has helped the Boys and Girls Club figure out how best to serve older kids during the pandemic.

"When we were talking about going full online, a lot of kids were worried about not having wifi at home and how they were going to get on their classes and Zooms and everything," Patterson said. "I voiced those needs to my dad and then the teen director Miss Gray and we came up with Stronger Together Power Hour just for high school."

Students were able to go to The Mine at 111 North Walnut, Suite B and work on homework or join Zoom meetings for class. The winner of the state competition will go on to the regional level and have a chance to become the National Youth of the Year if they continue to advance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616431276871.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Sadye Patterson, the Hutchinson Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year, is preparing for this week's state competition."It will be again this year by Zoom," said Skip Wilson with the Boys and Girls Club. "Tuesday, they are going to have all the candidates around the state get together for a trivia contest. Then on Wednesday, they'll actually have the competition of the interview and the speech."Patterson is looking forward to the opportunity."I'm really excited," Patterson said. "I'm glad I will have this opportunity to share my story of how the Boys and Girls Club has helped me and just what the Boys and Girls Club is all about."Patterson has helped the Boys and Girls Club figure out how best to serve older kids during the pandemic."When we were talking about going full online, a lot of kids were worried about not having wifi at home and how they were going to get on their classes and Zooms and everything," Patterson said. "I voiced those needs to my dad and then the teen director Miss Gray and we came up with Stronger Together Power Hour just for high school."Students were able to go to The Mine at 111 North Walnut, Suite B and work on homework or join Zoom meetings for class. The winner of the state competition will go on to the regional level and have a chance to become the National Youth of the Year if they continue to advance.

Patterson preparing for state Youth of the Year event


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp; After missing the 2020 awards program because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hutchinson Community Foundation’s annual spring ceremony returned Thursday evening to Chester I. Lewis Plaza.

Nine area nonprofit organizations received a total of $16,500 in Changemakers at Work Grants as part of the evening’s Third Thursday festivities. Changemakers at Work Grants are small funds available to Reno County residents and organizations working on projects that spark community spirit and pride, build social capital, and create opportunities for positive changes that strengthen the county.

“After the pandemic forced the cancellation of our 2020 awards ceremony and then limited this year’s meetings to Zoom, being able to gather for these awards and other fun activities was exhilarating, and I think we all truly felt that connection to community we’ve been craving this past year,” said Sarah Blake, Hutchinson Community Foundation program officer.

This year’s awards ranged from $1,150 to $2,500. The grants are supported by the Fund for Hutchinson, the foundation’s unrestricted fund for the ever-changing needs of Reno County.

Grants were awarded by the community foundation’s Changemakers at Work Grants Committee made up of board members and Reno County volunteers selected through an application process. This is the second year of including residents through the application process. Members of the 2021 committee are Loretta Deiker, retired educator and Reno County Food Bank volunteer; Stephfon Hunter, student and leader at Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson; Jeff Johnson, Hutch Rec community events coordinator; Peggy Ruebke, Nickerson mayor and volunteer firefighter; Dazia Simms, student and member of NAACP Youth and Hutchinson Community Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy Council; Esmeralda Tovar-Mora, board member; Nicole Waggoner, People’s Bank and Trust; Michelle Waln, board member; Kian Williams, student and Hutchinson’s Youth Council chair; and Calvin Wright, board member.

Last year’s committee members were Kelsi Depew, Seth Dewey, Michelle Inskeep, Jenna Lightsey, Kara Malloy, Arthur Pina, Jon Richardson and Jason Steele.

“Involving a new group of community volunteers in our grant-making process these past two years has been a successful experiment and has really confirmed our belief that the ‘wisdom is in the room,’” Blake said. “We’ve been able to connect with terrific folks who have hearts for Reno County and want to build on community assets and continue making positive changes so more folks feel connected. That’s what this grant cycle is all about.”

City of Plevna, Community Playground Picnic Table Shelter, $2,500: Funds will help provide a shelter for picnic tables at the town’s community center.

Graber Elementary, Growing Graber, $1,500: This project will strengthen the school’s existing outdoor classroom, providing a continued space for staff, students and families to come together to learn about nature, community pride and the power of collaboration. Funds will be used for gardening supplies, a tower garden, pond chemicals and maintenance, and food for wildlife.

Heartland Arts &amp; Culture Collective, Podcast Network, $1,150: Heartland Arts &amp; Culture Collective, in partnership with Salt City Sound, will increase community pride and engagement by creating a podcast network for arts and cultural content. The inaugural project will share news important to Hutchinson residents, include interviews with local guests and highlight upcoming community events.

Hutch in Harmony, Chester I. Lewis Plaza Art, $1,500: Funds will help with the costs of providing plaques under pieces of artwork at Chester I. Lewis Plaza. They would explain the scenes depicted and the history of Lewis’ contributions to the civil rights movement so that all who visit the plaza are able to celebrate his work for the community and the entire country.

Hutchinson Art Association, Virtual Kids Art Camp, $2,000: In response to the pandemic, the art center's virtual art camp is intended to fill the current gap in children’s art education and ease teachers’ burdens as online educators. Free art supplies will be available to children who wish to participate but for whom costs would be prohibitive.

Hutchinson Municipal Band, Making Space of the Arts in Carey Park, $2,000: In partnership with the city and with the support of Reno/Hutchinson Arts and Humanities Council and the Hutchinson Community College Music Department, the municipal band will create a simplistic, flexible performing space in Carey Park between the zoo and the Homebuilder’s Shelter for municipal band concerts and experimentation of other public outdoor performance gatherings in Carey Park.

Reno County Historical Society, People of Reno County Video Series, $1,850: This project will celebrate Hutchinson and Reno County’s 150th anniversaries by honoring our community and its citizens through engaging videos that put a new spin on collecting and sharing oral histories. Funds will help with the purchase of equipment needed for quality filming and sound recording.

Salt City Pickleball Group, Outdoor Pickleball Court Enhancement, $2,500: Funds will allow for effective lights on the outdoor courts being renovated at Rice Park so community members can gather even after dark to play pickleball, a sport growing in popularity in Reno County and across the country. 

SculptureArtWalk, Paint the Town Beautiful, $1,500: SculptureArtWalk will continue its focus on enhancing community pride by working closely with the public on a new, collaborative mural in the downtown Hutchinson area.

Hutchinson Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire philanthropy, collaboration and innovative leadership to strengthen Reno County communities. Since 1989, the foundation has granted more than $86 million to organizations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616428103250.jpeg" alt="From left, Graber Elementary School grant recipient Staci Smith-Burlie; grant committee members Loretta Dieker, Dazia Simms and Stephfon Hunter; Hutchinson Community Foundation board of directors vice chair Dashona Mahoney and chairperson Lisa French; city of Plevna grant recipient Gail Holcomb; and Graber Elementary School grant recipients Marsha Maness and Jesse Ediger attended the Changemakers at Work Grant Awards program Thursday evening at Chester I. Lewis Plaza. [Courtesy of Hutchinson Community Foundation]" />
 <figcaption>From left, Graber Elementary School grant recipient Staci Smith-Burlie; grant committee members Loretta Dieker, Dazia Simms and Stephfon Hunter; Hutchinson Community Foundation board of directors vice chair Dashona Mahoney and chairperson Lisa French; city of Plevna grant recipient Gail Holcomb; and Graber Elementary School grant recipients Marsha Maness and Jesse Ediger attended the Changemakers at Work Grant Awards program Thursday evening at Chester I. Lewis Plaza. [Courtesy of Hutchinson Community Foundation]</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp; After missing the 2020 awards program because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hutchinson Community Foundation’s annual spring ceremony returned Thursday evening to Chester I. Lewis Plaza.Nine area nonprofit organizations received a total of $16,500 in Changemakers at Work Grants as part of the evening’s Third Thursday festivities. Changemakers at Work Grants are small funds available to Reno County residents and organizations working on projects that spark community spirit and pride, build social capital, and create opportunities for positive changes that strengthen the county.“After the pandemic forced the cancellation of our 2020 awards ceremony and then limited this year’s meetings to Zoom, being able to gather for these awards and other fun activities was exhilarating, and I think we all truly felt that connection to community we’ve been craving this past year,” said Sarah Blake, Hutchinson Community Foundation program officer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616428131845.jpeg" alt="Changemakers at Work Grants Committee member Stephfon Hunter hands a grant check to Hutchinson Municipal Band representative Charles Johnston at the Changemakers at Work Grant Awards program Thursday evening at Chester I. Lewis Plaza. [Courtesy of Hutchinson Community Foundation]" />
 <figcaption>Changemakers at Work Grants Committee member Stephfon Hunter hands a grant check to Hutchinson Municipal Band representative Charles Johnston at the Changemakers at Work Grant Awards program Thursday evening at Chester I. Lewis Plaza. [Courtesy of Hutchinson Community Foundation]</figcaption>
 </figure>This year’s awards ranged from $1,150 to $2,500. The grants are supported by the Fund for Hutchinson, the foundation’s unrestricted fund for the ever-changing needs of Reno County.Grants were awarded by the community foundation’s Changemakers at Work Grants Committee made up of board members and Reno County volunteers selected through an application process. This is the second year of including residents through the application process. Members of the 2021 committee are Loretta Deiker, retired educator and Reno County Food Bank volunteer; Stephfon Hunter, student and leader at Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson; Jeff Johnson, Hutch Rec community events coordinator; Peggy Ruebke, Nickerson mayor and volunteer firefighter; Dazia Simms, student and member of NAACP Youth and Hutchinson Community Foundation’s Youth Philanthropy Council; Esmeralda Tovar-Mora, board member; Nicole Waggoner, People’s Bank and Trust; Michelle Waln, board member; Kian Williams, student and Hutchinson’s Youth Council chair; and Calvin Wright, board member.Last year’s committee members were Kelsi Depew, Seth Dewey, Michelle Inskeep, Jenna Lightsey, Kara Malloy, Arthur Pina, Jon Richardson and Jason Steele.“Involving a new group of community volunteers in our grant-making process these past two years has been a successful experiment and has really confirmed our belief that the ‘wisdom is in the room,’” Blake said. “We’ve been able to connect with terrific folks who have hearts for Reno County and want to build on community assets and continue making positive changes so more folks feel connected. That’s what this grant cycle is all about.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616428158295.jpeg" alt="Cindy Kreyer accepts a grant check on behalf of the Salt City Pickleball Group at the Changemakers at Work Grant Awards program Thursday evening at Chester I. Lewis Plaza. [Courtesy of Hutchinson Community Foundation]" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Kreyer accepts a grant check on behalf of the Salt City Pickleball Group at the Changemakers at Work Grant Awards program Thursday evening at Chester I. Lewis Plaza. [Courtesy of Hutchinson Community Foundation]</figcaption>
 </figure>The following are 2021 grant recipients:City of Plevna, Community Playground Picnic Table Shelter, $2,500: Funds will help provide a shelter for picnic tables at the town’s community center.Graber Elementary, Growing Graber, $1,500: This project will strengthen the school’s existing outdoor classroom, providing a continued space for staff, students and families to come together to learn about nature, community pride and the power of collaboration. Funds will be used for gardening supplies, a tower garden, pond chemicals and maintenance, and food for wildlife.Heartland Arts &amp; Culture Collective, Podcast Network, $1,150: Heartland Arts &amp; Culture Collective, in partnership with Salt City Sound, will increase community pride and engagement by creating a podcast network for arts and cultural content. The inaugural project will share news important to Hutchinson residents, include interviews with local guests and highlight upcoming community events.Hutch in Harmony, Chester I. Lewis Plaza Art, $1,500: Funds will help with the costs of providing plaques under pieces of artwork at Chester I. Lewis Plaza. They would explain the scenes depicted and the history of Lewis’ contributions to the civil rights movement so that all who visit the plaza are able to celebrate his work for the community and the entire country.Hutchinson Art Association, Virtual Kids Art Camp, $2,000: In response to the pandemic, the art center's virtual art camp is intended to fill the current gap in children’s art education and ease teachers’ burdens as online educators. Free art supplies will be available to children who wish to participate but for whom costs would be prohibitive.Hutchinson Municipal Band, Making Space of the Arts in Carey Park, $2,000: In partnership with the city and with the support of Reno/Hutchinson Arts and Humanities Council and the Hutchinson Community College Music Department, the municipal band will create a simplistic, flexible performing space in Carey Park between the zoo and the Homebuilder’s Shelter for municipal band concerts and experimentation of other public outdoor performance gatherings in Carey Park.Reno County Historical Society, People of Reno County Video Series, $1,850: This project will celebrate Hutchinson and Reno County’s 150th anniversaries by honoring our community and its citizens through engaging videos that put a new spin on collecting and sharing oral histories. Funds will help with the purchase of equipment needed for quality filming and sound recording.Salt City Pickleball Group, Outdoor Pickleball Court Enhancement, $2,500: Funds will allow for effective lights on the outdoor courts being renovated at Rice Park so community members can gather even after dark to play pickleball, a sport growing in popularity in Reno County and across the country. SculptureArtWalk, Paint the Town Beautiful, $1,500: SculptureArtWalk will continue its focus on enhancing community pride by working closely with the public on a new, collaborative mural in the downtown Hutchinson area.Hutchinson Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire philanthropy, collaboration and innovative leadership to strengthen Reno County communities. Since 1989, the foundation has granted more than $86 million to organizations.

Hutch CF awards more than $16K in grants

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

When I lived in the city, spring was not my favorite season.

Summer is filled with warm sunny days inspiring vacations or breaks from reality that provide much needed rest and relaxation. Fall’s brisk days and chilly nights are the perfect setting for football games, spooky fun and feasting at Thanksgiving. Winter has some big headliners with the holiday season up front and enough predictability in cold weather that people either embrace it as a wonderland or avoid it at all costs.

But spring always felt like it sneaks up on you with its beginning somewhere between the appearance of a groundhog, leprechaun and the Easter Bunny. It is often the muddy aftermath of a fading winter wonderland. It matches fall’s temperatures but not its ambiance. Then before you know it, summer is creeping in to outshine it with its unofficial launch party on Memorial Day.

Since moving back to a farm, my perspective has shifted, and spring feels completely different in this more flattering light.

Spring sneaking up doesn’t seems so bad when you realize that practically overnight a dull brown, lifeless field turns into lush green, thriving wheat. New baby calves and lambs can be seen frolicking through mud puddles and exploring the world around them. Instead of holding a welcome party for summer, we hope for rain on Memorial Day to water the crops and maybe give us a little break between planting and harvest.

It is a time of new life and growth. Hidden flower bulbs make it feel like the earth is awakening with their colorful appearance. Buds forming on trees and bushes begin to flower in a beautiful promise of the fruit they will bear. The air comes alive with the sounds of wildlife and insects returning to their natural patterns.

The freshness of spring brings an enthusiasm for hard work. Gardeners who spent the winter dreaming cannot wait to dig in and begin new projects. Farmers filled with belief work long into the night planting the seeds that will eventually make harvest possible. Warmer days instinctually make people want to it throw open the windows and clean away the staleness of the past.

Staleness of the past has accumulated over this past year. We have been stuck in our homes with little escape during the pandemic that monopolized our minds, altered our lives and sapped much of our energy.

The first day of spring this year caught me by surprise like always, but this year’s surprise felt sweeter. It made it real that it has been a year since we first went into lockdown. A year of social distancing, mask wearing and unthinkable loss for our country. A year of rapid development and deployment of a vaccine that is helping to curb our infection rates. The arrival of spring feels like the fresh start we have been desperately waiting for.

Spring has brought with it a lightness of spirit that makes it feel OK to dream again. That someday soon we will be able to ditch the masks, hug our loved ones and make real live plans.

Take advantage of this uniquely momentous spring to clear away the staleness of the past, plant seeds of hope for the future, and embrace a new life and the growth all around you.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancherWhen I lived in the city, spring was not my favorite season.Summer is filled with warm sunny days inspiring vacations or breaks from reality that provide much needed rest and relaxation. Fall’s brisk days and chilly nights are the perfect setting for football games, spooky fun and feasting at Thanksgiving. Winter has some big headliners with the holiday season up front and enough predictability in cold weather that people either embrace it as a wonderland or avoid it at all costs.But spring always felt like it sneaks up on you with its beginning somewhere between the appearance of a groundhog, leprechaun and the Easter Bunny. It is often the muddy aftermath of a fading winter wonderland. It matches fall’s temperatures but not its ambiance. Then before you know it, summer is creeping in to outshine it with its unofficial launch party on Memorial Day.Since moving back to a farm, my perspective has shifted, and spring feels completely different in this more flattering light.Spring sneaking up doesn’t seems so bad when you realize that practically overnight a dull brown, lifeless field turns into lush green, thriving wheat. New baby calves and lambs can be seen frolicking through mud puddles and exploring the world around them. Instead of holding a welcome party for summer, we hope for rain on Memorial Day to water the crops and maybe give us a little break between planting and harvest.It is a time of new life and growth. Hidden flower bulbs make it feel like the earth is awakening with their colorful appearance. Buds forming on trees and bushes begin to flower in a beautiful promise of the fruit they will bear. The air comes alive with the sounds of wildlife and insects returning to their natural patterns.The freshness of spring brings an enthusiasm for hard work. Gardeners who spent the winter dreaming cannot wait to dig in and begin new projects. Farmers filled with belief work long into the night planting the seeds that will eventually make harvest possible. Warmer days instinctually make people want to it throw open the windows and clean away the staleness of the past.Staleness of the past has accumulated over this past year. We have been stuck in our homes with little escape during the pandemic that monopolized our minds, altered our lives and sapped much of our energy.The first day of spring this year caught me by surprise like always, but this year’s surprise felt sweeter. It made it real that it has been a year since we first went into lockdown. A year of social distancing, mask wearing and unthinkable loss for our country. A year of rapid development and deployment of a vaccine that is helping to curb our infection rates. The arrival of spring feels like the fresh start we have been desperately waiting for.Spring has brought with it a lightness of spirit that makes it feel OK to dream again. That someday soon we will be able to ditch the masks, hug our loved ones and make real live plans.Take advantage of this uniquely momentous spring to clear away the staleness of the past, plant seeds of hope for the future, and embrace a new life and the growth all around you.

Insight: A Spring Like No Other


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — District 34 State Senator Dr. Mark Steffen testified Monday before the Senate Public Health and Welfare committee on Senate Bill 212. The bill's intent is not to require children to be vaccinated for COVID-19. Steffen doesn't believe in that population the reward is worth the risk.

"It protects our children from a vaccine that has a morbidity and mortality profile equal to or higher than the COVID-19 virus itself, for sure in this age group of people," Steffen said. 

As of the time of Steffen's testimony on Monday, none of the vaccines approved for adults in the United States have been approved for use in children.

"It's a vaccine that is experimental, a vaccine that is gene manipulative, a technique never used before," Steffen said. "It's long term dangers won't be known for decades."

Steffen wants to be sure that recommendations are policy, rather than mandates as much as possible.

"Don't get me wrong," Steffen said. "Used appropriately, vaccines are a great, great thing. As a physician, I've recommended them to many an individual. Recommend is the key. As a physician myself, I've never once mandated a treatment, nor has any of the other doctors who will show up later, like Dr. Eplee. He's never mandated a treatment plan. The CDC, FDA, NIH and World Health Organization recommend vaccinations for society. Why in the world would we allow Lee Norman to mandate anything?"

Secretary Norman spoke in opposition to the bill, mainly wanting to keep the regulation open-ended so they can adjust as more is learned about vaccines generally.

"I think it's important and we think it's important that vaccines remain in regulation in KAR 28-1-20, rather than listed in statutes, in order to support timely response to changes in ACIP recommendations," Norman said. "A new vaccine may be recommended by the ACIP, or it may be one, because of new findings, where it may be recommended to be removed. In either case, we want to act quickly."

ACIP is the CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Any time a new vaccine is to be added to the mandatory list, it needs to be on the list by February to be able to be in arms by August to start school.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — District 34 State Senator Dr. Mark Steffen testified Monday before the Senate Public Health and Welfare committee on Senate Bill 212. The bill's intent is not to require children to be vaccinated for COVID-19. Steffen doesn't believe in that population the reward is worth the risk."It protects our children from a vaccine that has a morbidity and mortality profile equal to or higher than the COVID-19 virus itself, for sure in this age group of people," Steffen said. As of the time of Steffen's testimony on Monday, none of the vaccines approved for adults in the United States have been approved for use in children."It's a vaccine that is experimental, a vaccine that is gene manipulative, a technique never used before," Steffen said. "It's long term dangers won't be known for decades."Steffen wants to be sure that recommendations are policy, rather than mandates as much as possible."Don't get me wrong," Steffen said. "Used appropriately, vaccines are a great, great thing. As a physician, I've recommended them to many an individual. Recommend is the key. As a physician myself, I've never once mandated a treatment, nor has any of the other doctors who will show up later, like Dr. Eplee. He's never mandated a treatment plan. The CDC, FDA, NIH and World Health Organization recommend vaccinations for society. Why in the world would we allow Lee Norman to mandate anything?"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616423873913.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Secretary Norman spoke in opposition to the bill, mainly wanting to keep the regulation open-ended so they can adjust as more is learned about vaccines generally."I think it's important and we think it's important that vaccines remain in regulation in KAR 28-1-20, rather than listed in statutes, in order to support timely response to changes in ACIP recommendations," Norman said. "A new vaccine may be recommended by the ACIP, or it may be one, because of new findings, where it may be recommended to be removed. In either case, we want to act quickly."ACIP is the CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Any time a new vaccine is to be added to the mandatory list, it needs to be on the list by February to be able to be in arms by August to start school.

Testimony on vaccination bill Monday at legislature


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Department Director Karla Nichols has several items before the Board of Reno County Commissioners on Tuesday.

Nichols will present the Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan, discuss a grant application to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and go over the department's accreditation by the Public Health Accreditation Board.

Also presenting before the commission Tuesday is Kari Mailloux, Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Hutchinson Community Foundation and Public Works Director Don Brittain. There are several public works items on the commission's consent agenda, including revisions to its broadband pole policy, buried utilities policy, county road entrance and culvert policy and oversize and overweight haul loads policy.

A pair of purchases for solid waste are on the agenda as well, including an excavator and the purchase of a new scale along with moving the current scale to the new scale house.

The Board of Reno County Commissioners meets Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse. 

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Department Director Karla Nichols has several items before the Board of Reno County Commissioners on Tuesday.Nichols will present the Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan, discuss a grant application to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and go over the department's accreditation by the Public Health Accreditation Board.Also presenting before the commission Tuesday is Kari Mailloux, Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Hutchinson Community Foundation and Public Works Director Don Brittain. There are several public works items on the commission's consent agenda, including revisions to its broadband pole policy, buried utilities policy, county road entrance and culvert policy and oversize and overweight haul loads policy.A pair of purchases for solid waste are on the agenda as well, including an excavator and the purchase of a new scale along with moving the current scale to the new scale house.The Board of Reno County Commissioners meets Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Board of County Commissioners to hear from Health Department, Public Works Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
One of the best-selling concerts of the Kansas State Fair's 2021 lineup just got even better.

Willie Jones, a Penthouse Recording artist and Warner Chappell songwriter who seamlessly blends hip-hop and country music, will open for Nelly on Saturday, Sept. 18.

Jones is paving the way for a genre-expanding sound that’s truly signature to Jones himself. Armed with more than 1 million followers across social platforms, he recently debuted his own Apple Music show called “The Cross Roads Radio.”  Jones just released his debut album “Right Now” amassing a cumulative stream count of 35M to date on Spotify, featuring the poignant patriotic single “American Dream.” The video clip of this anthem was jointly premiered on CMT and BET, a first for the networks. The rising artist has been covered by NPR All Things Considered, Forbes, Rolling Stone, E! News, PEOPLE, MTV and more. 

Jones made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry on March 5 and recently performed on the Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon, Monday, March 8, 2021. 

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
One of the best-selling concerts of the Kansas State Fair's 2021 lineup just got even better.Willie Jones, a Penthouse Recording artist and Warner Chappell songwriter who seamlessly blends hip-hop and country music, will open for Nelly on Saturday, Sept. 18.Jones is paving the way for a genre-expanding sound that’s truly signature to Jones himself. Armed with more than 1 million followers across social platforms, he recently debuted his own Apple Music show called “The Cross Roads Radio.” Jones just released his debut album “Right Now” amassing a cumulative stream count of 35M to date on Spotify, featuring the poignant patriotic single “American Dream.” The video clip of this anthem was jointly premiered on CMT and BET, a first for the networks. The rising artist has been covered by NPR All Things Considered, Forbes, Rolling Stone, E! News, PEOPLE, MTV and more. Jones made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry on March 5 and recently performed on the Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon, Monday, March 8, 2021. <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;

Willie Jones to open for Nelly at Kansas State Fair


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Department Director Karla Nichols believes that there is still a need for the public testing facility at the Cosmosphere, even with case counts as low as they have been in months.

"We would all love for COVID to go away," Nichols said. "It probably, realistically, will not go away until we get most of the community vaccinated. We still want people, if they're having symptoms or signs to make sure that you're getting tested, so we know what's going on in the community so we can adjust."

Even though the site for first vaccinations is changing to Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of the First United Methodist Church at 101 East 1st Avenue, if you got your first shot elsewhere, you need to get your second where you got your first.

"If you received your first dose at the Sports Arena, you will receive your second dose at the Sports Arena," Nichols said. "Then we're at the Sports Arena, we will not be at the church."

The Health Department's appointments are full for the first week of Phase 3 and 4 vaccinations, but they are still scheduling appointments for future weeks.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Department Director Karla Nichols believes that there is still a need for the public testing facility at the Cosmosphere, even with case counts as low as they have been in months."We would all love for COVID to go away," Nichols said. "It probably, realistically, will not go away until we get most of the community vaccinated. We still want people, if they're having symptoms or signs to make sure that you're getting tested, so we know what's going on in the community so we can adjust."Even though the site for first vaccinations is changing to Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of the First United Methodist Church at 101 East 1st Avenue, if you got your first shot elsewhere, you need to get your second where you got your first."If you received your first dose at the Sports Arena, you will receive your second dose at the Sports Arena," Nichols said. "Then we're at the Sports Arena, we will not be at the church."The Health Department's appointments are full for the first week of Phase 3 and 4 vaccinations, but they are still scheduling appointments for future weeks.

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