BUHLER, Kan.— The Buhler USD 313 School Board gave approval to file an application with the Kansas Association of School Boards to bring virtual school to the district.

Approval would add Buhler to the list of school districts offering virtual schools in the county. Nickerson USD 309 and Haven USD 312 also offer at home schooling, as does Hutchinson USD 308. The district has recognized that some students excel in virtual learning, a byproduct of the pandemic which forced school districts to go to remote classes.

Under the program students in K-12 will be eligible for the program. Students will be required to meet good academic standing with the district and must maintain a passing grade is at least 60% of the course work. The student must also respond to all digital communication from the school and attend required meetings with their teachers either virtually or in person.

Students from outside the district may be accepted into the virtual school pending administrative approval. The district anticipates that only one instructor will be needed for every 40 students in the program.&nbsp;

If all goes as planned, the district will present its application to the KASB soon and hope to have an answer before the school year ends in May.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan.— The Buhler USD 313 School Board gave approval to file an application with the Kansas Association of School Boards to bring virtual school to the district.Approval would add Buhler to the list of school districts offering virtual schools in the county. Nickerson USD 309 and Haven USD 312 also offer at home schooling, as does Hutchinson USD 308. The district has recognized that some students excel in virtual learning, a byproduct of the pandemic which forced school districts to go to remote classes.Under the program students in K-12 will be eligible for the program. Students will be required to meet good academic standing with the district and must maintain a passing grade is at least 60% of the course work. The student must also respond to all digital communication from the school and attend required meetings with their teachers either virtually or in person.Students from outside the district may be accepted into the virtual school pending administrative approval. The district anticipates that only one instructor will be needed for every 40 students in the program.&nbsp;If all goes as planned, the district will present its application to the KASB soon and hope to have an answer before the school year ends in May.<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;

Buhler USD 313 to apply for virtual learning program

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the exception of a few movies back in October, the big screen at Hutchinson’s Historic Theatre has been dark since March of 2020.&nbsp;

They hope to change that this weekend when they present DreamWorks newest animated feature The Croods: A New Age to kick off the return of the Fox Film Series. The Fox is also excited to announce the addition of classic cartoon animated shorts to be presented prior to each Fox Film Series movie. The cartoons will feature a variety of characters such as Betty Boop, Popeye, Felix the Cat, Little Audrey, Casper, and more.

The Croods: A New Age will be presented Friday, March 12th – Sunday, March 14th. Fox Film Series show times are 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is just $5 per person and only available at the door. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time and Fox volunteers will be serving up piping hot popcorn and ice-cold beverages at our concession stand.

Film Series punch card passes are also available for just $45. Each pass includes 10 punches for admission to any Fox Film Series movie and also comes with a Popcorn Punch Card good for five free small popcorns from the Fox Concession Stand. Film Series passes aren’t movie specific and don’t expire. Passes can be purchased online at <a href="http://hutchinsonfox.com/">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a>, or at the theatre’s Box Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614097835841.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the exception of a few movies back in October, the big screen at Hutchinson’s Historic Theatre has been dark since March of 2020.&nbsp;They hope to change that this weekend when they present DreamWorks newest animated feature The Croods: A New Age to kick off the return of the Fox Film Series. The Fox is also excited to announce the addition of classic cartoon animated shorts to be presented prior to each Fox Film Series movie. The cartoons will feature a variety of characters such as Betty Boop, Popeye, Felix the Cat, Little Audrey, Casper, and more.The Croods: A New Age will be presented Friday, March 12th – Sunday, March 14th. Fox Film Series show times are 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is just $5 per person and only available at the door. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time and Fox volunteers will be serving up piping hot popcorn and ice-cold beverages at our concession stand.Film Series punch card passes are also available for just $45. Each pass includes 10 punches for admission to any Fox Film Series movie and also comes with a Popcorn Punch Card good for five free small popcorns from the Fox Concession Stand. Film Series passes aren’t movie specific and don’t expire. Passes can be purchased online at <a href="http://hutchinsonfox.com/">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a>, or at the theatre’s Box Office.<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;

Fox to kick off movies again this Friday

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Kansas Association of School Boards and the Nickerson School District are wanting patrons input on what they want in their new superintendent.

An online survey is now available to seek that information on the desired characteristics needed to fill that position. The survey will take about five minutes to complete and can be accessed at <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/309">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/309</a>.&nbsp;

The survey will close March 21. The District appointed the KASB to help in finding a replacement for outgoing Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson. The School Board said Monday they would like to be able to make an offer to their candidate of choice by mid-April.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943325915.jpeg" alt="USD 309 Logo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>USD 309 Logo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Kansas Association of School Boards and the Nickerson School District are wanting patrons input on what they want in their new superintendent.An online survey is now available to seek that information on the desired characteristics needed to fill that position. The survey will take about five minutes to complete and can be accessed at <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/309">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/309</a>.&nbsp;The survey will close March 21. The District appointed the KASB to help in finding a replacement for outgoing Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson. The School Board said Monday they would like to be able to make an offer to their candidate of choice by mid-April.
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USD 309 offers survey as part of superintendent search


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper explained that whether or not to continue a chase of a suspect in a vehicle is a decision that is dependent on circumstances.

"What the law says when we are pursuing a suspect is that, if the reason for pursuit, so the reason that we're trying to stop them, if the danger of the pursuit outweighs that reason, then we should terminate that pursuit, is typically the guidance."

Therefore, someone guilty of a person felony would likely be chased further and with more allowed risk than someone who has only committed a traffic offense and has no outstanding warrants.

"This has been an emphasis in our department over about the last six months," Hooper said. "We have really reviewed our pursuit policy and the application of that policy. There's been a couple pursuits here of late that have concerned me. We're young. We're very young. I have officers that have never been in a pursuit before. Every one of those pursuits, we review it from the sergeant level, the lieutenant level, my operations commander and all the way up to me, review every aspect of that pursuit to determine whether it was in policy, whether its a training issue and we try to improve on that and then we review it with those supervisors who have the overall command of that pursuit."

It's important that anyone who commits an offense knows that they may be held accountable.

"I have not implemented a no pursuit policy, because then you encourage everybody to run from you," Hooper said. "It's all about that balance. You weigh the dangers of the pursuit versus the safety of the community and the need for immediate apprehension."

The information given to the officers about the suspect will likely not be known to the general public, which is why it is hard to know exactly what decision officers may make in a given situation.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591796149452.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper explained that whether or not to continue a chase of a suspect in a vehicle is a decision that is dependent on circumstances."What the law says when we are pursuing a suspect is that, if the reason for pursuit, so the reason that we're trying to stop them, if the danger of the pursuit outweighs that reason, then we should terminate that pursuit, is typically the guidance."Therefore, someone guilty of a person felony would likely be chased further and with more allowed risk than someone who has only committed a traffic offense and has no outstanding warrants."This has been an emphasis in our department over about the last six months," Hooper said. "We have really reviewed our pursuit policy and the application of that policy. There's been a couple pursuits here of late that have concerned me. We're young. We're very young. I have officers that have never been in a pursuit before. Every one of those pursuits, we review it from the sergeant level, the lieutenant level, my operations commander and all the way up to me, review every aspect of that pursuit to determine whether it was in policy, whether its a training issue and we try to improve on that and then we review it with those supervisors who have the overall command of that pursuit."It's important that anyone who commits an offense knows that they may be held accountable."I have not implemented a no pursuit policy, because then you encourage everybody to run from you," Hooper said. "It's all about that balance. You weigh the dangers of the pursuit versus the safety of the community and the need for immediate apprehension."The information given to the officers about the suspect will likely not be known to the general public, which is why it is hard to know exactly what decision officers may make in a given situation.
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Hooper: Police pursuit decisions made on case-by-case basis


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer explained how his department determined where to do their mitigation burning earlier this year to protect certain areas from wildfires.

"Everybody remembers the big fires of 2017 around Hutch," Beer said. "Along with that, there has been numerous other large fires around Hutch. What we did after the 2017 fire, we looked at some of the lessons that were learned. My division chief of operations and myself sat down with our GIS department and we looked at 20 years of history of big fires, wildland fires around Hutch. What we found when we started plotting these out, is that there was a lot of commonalities amongst these fires. They jumped the roads in the same spot, based on the wind speeds and different things, the wind directions and so, we came up with a plan to try to mitigate areas in key areas, based on history."

"Use Plum Street as an example north of town," Beer said. "The road is basically 30 feet, but when we burn each side of the ditches off, we gain about 80 feet of anchoring points to burn off of or work off of. You take today, the relative humidity is going to be down to 15%. A lot of people don't really understand that. They just think fire is fire and it happens any time. When the humidity drops that low, basically you can spit on the ground and it can start a fire. It doesn't take anything and these fires jump these roads so fast and then they move on to the next road and they keep going. If we have places where we can stop and control these and anchor off of, we've got a fighting chance in these 40 to 50 mile an hour wind conditions."

A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581421107529.jpeg" alt="2020 Mitigation Burning File Photo" />
 <figcaption>2020 Mitigation Burning File Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer explained how his department determined where to do their mitigation burning earlier this year to protect certain areas from wildfires."Everybody remembers the big fires of 2017 around Hutch," Beer said. "Along with that, there has been numerous other large fires around Hutch. What we did after the 2017 fire, we looked at some of the lessons that were learned. My division chief of operations and myself sat down with our GIS department and we looked at 20 years of history of big fires, wildland fires around Hutch. What we found when we started plotting these out, is that there was a lot of commonalities amongst these fires. They jumped the roads in the same spot, based on the wind speeds and different things, the wind directions and so, we came up with a plan to try to mitigate areas in key areas, based on history."Beer gave one example."Use Plum Street as an example north of town," Beer said. "The road is basically 30 feet, but when we burn each side of the ditches off, we gain about 80 feet of anchoring points to burn off of or work off of. You take today, the relative humidity is going to be down to 15%. A lot of people don't really understand that. They just think fire is fire and it happens any time. When the humidity drops that low, basically you can spit on the ground and it can start a fire. It doesn't take anything and these fires jump these roads so fast and then they move on to the next road and they keep going. If we have places where we can stop and control these and anchor off of, we've got a fighting chance in these 40 to 50 mile an hour wind conditions."A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Beer: Previous mitigation burns key when red flag conditions exist


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners is not going to vote on wind farm regulations until commissioner Daniel Friesen is ready.

"One of our commissioners possibly isn't ready to vote on the three major things that we're still debating, distance from a non-participating property, sound and flicker," said commissioner Ron Sellers. "If that individual isn't ready to vote on this, I'd suggest that we put this off and not take this issue up again until he's ready."

Friesen is still searching for a compromise from those who want the economic development and those who don't want the turbines changing their rural quality of life.

"I think the different interests involved, specifically, those that are most affected, the property owners, both participating and non-participating, should have some discussions with the economic development interests of this community, the Hutch Chamber, and there's been a significant amount of economic development interest in this matter. I think that's something we missed previously, is that some of this could perhaps be solved, or at least discussed better outside of this particular forum."

Friesen also noted that there is legislation that has been introduced at the state level that could make the discussion moot.

"There's Senate Bill 279 that's in front of the Kansas Senate right now," Friesen said. "It appears to, by way of statute, override a lot of the things we're talking about here. I think it might be appropriate to get a staff report sent out as to what the differences are in Senate Bill 279 as compared to what we're looking at here."

The board voted 2-1 to set the issue aside until their April 13 meeting. Friesen and Sellers voted for that, Ron Hirst wanted to talk about it sooner, so he voted no.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975074208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners is not going to vote on wind farm regulations until commissioner Daniel Friesen is ready."One of our commissioners possibly isn't ready to vote on the three major things that we're still debating, distance from a non-participating property, sound and flicker," said commissioner Ron Sellers. "If that individual isn't ready to vote on this, I'd suggest that we put this off and not take this issue up again until he's ready."Friesen is still searching for a compromise from those who want the economic development and those who don't want the turbines changing their rural quality of life."I think the different interests involved, specifically, those that are most affected, the property owners, both participating and non-participating, should have some discussions with the economic development interests of this community, the Hutch Chamber, and there's been a significant amount of economic development interest in this matter. I think that's something we missed previously, is that some of this could perhaps be solved, or at least discussed better outside of this particular forum."Friesen also noted that there is legislation that has been introduced at the state level that could make the discussion moot."There's Senate Bill 279 that's in front of the Kansas Senate right now," Friesen said. "It appears to, by way of statute, override a lot of the things we're talking about here. I think it might be appropriate to get a staff report sent out as to what the differences are in Senate Bill 279 as compared to what we're looking at here."The board voted 2-1 to set the issue aside until their April 13 meeting. Friesen and Sellers voted for that, Ron Hirst wanted to talk about it sooner, so he voted no.
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Wind farm regs pushed off again

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Parents in Hutchinson USD 308 are being asked to fill out an enrollment survey for next year. This survey will gather pre-enrollment numbers for the district's new virtual school as well as traditional schools in USD 308.

For the 2021-2022 school year, students have two options for learning, either in person or through the district's new virtual school.

Hutchinson Virtual School (HVS) is a part of USD 308. HVS is open to K-12 students who reside in the state of Kansas. Local USD 308 teachers will provide support and instruction through daily online contact with students. In-person instruction sessions can be scheduled as needed. Adults wishing to complete their diploma are also encouraged to enroll. HVS will be open for enrollment soon and will follow the USD 308 calendar.

The survey will ask a variety of questions for each child.  There will be families who move between now and August, so this is just a preliminary indication of numbers and not the actual enrollment process. March 12th is the deadline to complete the survey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Parents in Hutchinson USD 308 are being asked to fill out an enrollment survey for next year. This survey will gather pre-enrollment numbers for the district's new virtual school as well as traditional schools in USD 308.For the 2021-2022 school year, students have two options for learning, either in person or through the district's new virtual school.Hutchinson Virtual School (HVS) is a part of USD 308. HVS is open to K-12 students who reside in the state of Kansas. Local USD 308 teachers will provide support and instruction through daily online contact with students. In-person instruction sessions can be scheduled as needed. Adults wishing to complete their diploma are also encouraged to enroll. HVS will be open for enrollment soon and will follow the USD 308 calendar.The survey will ask a variety of questions for each child. There will be families who move between now and August, so this is just a preliminary indication of numbers and not the actual enrollment process. March 12th is the deadline to complete the survey.

USD 308 asking parents to fill out enrollment survey for next year

A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m Wednesday.

Extreme grassland fire danger is forecast. Winds from the southwest will be sustained from 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and relative humidity as low as 15 percent.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615373421136.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m Wednesday.Extreme grassland fire danger is forecast. Winds from the southwest will be sustained from 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and relative humidity as low as 15 percent.Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Red Flag Warning in effect Wednesday

Red Flag Warning in effect and the mask mandate will be looked at later this month, plus more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Red Flag Warning in effect and the mask mandate will be looked at later this month, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="March 10, 2021 Morning News" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/cvmjb-fd3327?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

March 10, 2021 Morning News

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A hearing is set before the Kansas Court of Appeals on Wednesday in a civil case filed by a Hutchinson man serving more than 20 years in prison for a home invasion case six years ago.

Twenty-six-year-old Fredrick Lemons was convicted of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery and criminal threat. Lemons was one of four men who broke into a home on north Waldron Street in May of 2015, beat the victim and tied him up. From there, the men stole two vehicles along with a number of items.

Lemons filed a civil case in August of 2019 citing ineffective counsel and other matters. The case went before the district court in February of 2020 where the case was denied.&nbsp;

Only briefs will be presented on Wednesday. No oral arguments will be delivered.

Lemons was convicted along with three other defendants in the case. Only Lemons is involved in the civil action.

<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/2021/3/1615320864932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A hearing is set before the Kansas Court of Appeals on Wednesday in a civil case filed by a Hutchinson man serving more than 20 years in prison for a home invasion case six years ago.Twenty-six-year-old Fredrick Lemons was convicted of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery and criminal threat. Lemons was one of four men who broke into a home on north Waldron Street in May of 2015, beat the victim and tied him up. From there, the men stole two vehicles along with a number of items.Lemons filed a civil case in August of 2019 citing ineffective counsel and other matters. The case went before the district court in February of 2020 where the case was denied.&nbsp;Only briefs will be presented on Wednesday. No oral arguments will be delivered.Lemons was convicted along with three other defendants in the case. Only Lemons is involved in the civil action.<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;

Civil case in aggravated burglary conviction goes before Court of Appeals Wednesday

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 will continue with its preschool application clinics this week. Parents who will have preschool students at Union Valley Elementary can attend the clinic on Thursday, March 11. The clinic will run from 5 to 7 p.m.

USD 313 offers half day preschool for children ages 3 and 4 free of charge and low cost child care in the same building. The sessions run from 7:45 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. and then in the afternoon from 11:45 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. Lunch is served to both sessions with normal lunch and breakfast fees.

A third clinic will be held March 25 at Buhler Grade School in Buhler from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information go to <a href="http://usd313.org">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 continue with its preschool application clinics this week. Parents who will have preschool students at Union Valley Elementary can attend the clinic on Thursday, March 11. The clinic will run from 5 to 7 p.m.USD 313 offers half day preschool for children ages 3 and 4 free of charge and low cost child care in the same building. The sessions run from 7:45 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. and then in the afternoon from 11:45 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. Lunch is served to both sessions with normal lunch and breakfast fees.A third clinic will be held March 25 at Buhler Grade School in Buhler from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information go to <a href="http://usd313.org">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;

Buhler USD 313 continues with preschool clinics

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The HutchCC Board of Trustees will go over student tuition fees during Thursday's regular meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If approved, fees would increase by $2 across the board. Kansas residents would see their fees increase to $95 per credit hour and up to $126 per credit hour for out-of-state students.

International student fees would also increase to $135 per credit hour. All other student fees would remain at $23.

Also Thursday, the board will seek approval to establish a new teaching position. This one would be a Construction Trades Trainer. The new position would involve teaching building and construction trades such as plumbing, HVAC, carpentry and other building trades. It would include working with Greenbush and the Kansas Department of Corrections to bring these classes to inmates at HCF.

The board will also take action on a new position of Ag Instructor. The new instructor would teach assigned courses within the Agricultural program. Courses may include, Ag Economics, Ag Marketing, Animal Nutrition, Feeds and Feeding, Ag Math, Farm Management and Microcomputers in Ag.&nbsp;

The board will also go into executive session for negotiations. Thursday’s meeting of the HutchCC Board of Trustees begins at 7 p.m. at the Shears Technology Center on the HutchCC Campus.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the 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/2020/2/1581541933395.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The HutchCC Board of Trustees will go over student tuition fees during Thursday's regular meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;If approved, fees would increase by $2 across the board. Kansas residents would see their fees increase to $95 per credit hour and up to $126 per credit hour for out-of-state students.International student fees would also increase to $135 per credit hour. All other student fees would remain at $23.Also Thursday, the board will seek approval to establish a new teaching position. This one would be a Construction Trades Trainer. The new position would involve teaching building and construction trades such as plumbing, HVAC, carpentry and other building trades. It would include working with Greenbush and the Kansas Department of Corrections to bring these classes to inmates at HCF.The board will also take action on a new position of Ag Instructor. The new instructor would teach assigned courses within the Agricultural program. Courses may include, Ag Economics, Ag Marketing, Animal Nutrition, Feeds and Feeding, Ag Math, Farm Management and Microcomputers in Ag.&nbsp;The board will also go into executive session for negotiations. Thursday’s meeting of the HutchCC Board of Trustees begins at 7 p.m. at the Shears Technology Center on the HutchCC Campus.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the 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;

HutchCC BOT to go over tuition fees on Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Debra Teufel with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce notes that a significant sector of the Reno County economy was rocked by COVID-19 this past year.

"The hotel and hospitality industry and our restaurants were hit so hard," Teufel said. "Over 120 events that would normally have brought economic prosperity to Hutchinson were cancelled, including the State Fair."

The breadth of the economic impact is a staggering number.

"We've had a lot of talks with the hotels about what they are feeling," Teufel said. "If I could put a number to it, I think our hotel industry alone lost somewhere between $3.5 to $5 million over the last year here. We're not out of the woods yet."

There is a minor piece of hope for lodging growth in Hutchinson going in downtown.

"It's been wonderful to see Mark and Phoebe Davenport, who have invested in now, three buildings in our downtown," Teufel said. "Last year, they purchased the Plaza Towers and Leon Hotel. You probably saw, just last week, they closed on the purchase of the Hoke Building and their intent with the Hoke Building is to add about 18 boutique hotel rooms to our inventory."

The Chamber would love to see more hotel rooms added in other areas in the future, as they see that as an area where the community can still grow, as even the teams that come to town for the NJCAA tournament aren't able to be fully accommodated in the city right now.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Debra Teufel with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce notes that a significant sector of the Reno County economy was rocked by COVID-19 this past year."The hotel and hospitality industry and our restaurants were hit so hard," Teufel said. "Over 120 events that would normally have brought economic prosperity to Hutchinson were cancelled, including the State Fair."The breadth of the economic impact is a staggering number."We've had a lot of talks with the hotels about what they are feeling," Teufel said. "If I could put a number to it, I think our hotel industry alone lost somewhere between $3.5 to $5 million over the last year here. We're not out of the woods yet."There is a minor piece of hope for lodging growth in Hutchinson going in downtown."It's been wonderful to see Mark and Phoebe Davenport, who have invested in now, three buildings in our downtown," Teufel said. "Last year, they purchased the Plaza Towers and Leon Hotel. You probably saw, just last week, they closed on the purchase of the Hoke Building and their intent with the Hoke Building is to add about 18 boutique hotel rooms to our inventory."The Chamber would love to see more hotel rooms added in other areas in the future, as they see that as an area where the community can still grow, as even the teams that come to town for the NJCAA tournament aren't able to be fully accommodated in the city right now.
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Teufel: Hospitality industry in Hutchinson lost millions in COVID cancellations

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. —The Board of Reno County Commissioners will be looking later this month at whether or not a mask mandate is still needed in the county. 

"I think some of the policies probably were a little overreactive," said County Commissioner Daniel Friesen. "At what point do we acknowledge that and start to kind of move to reopening, to a point where we look at the evidence and say this is working and this is not."

The Reno County Medical Collaborative advised the commission that they should keep the mandate a little longer to allow for further vaccinations.

"It would be our recommendation to not opt out of the Governor's mask mandate at this time," said Karen Hammersmith with the Reno County Health Department. "We feel that this is premature. Our numbers are coming down. We have gotten the high priority people as far as those 65 and older vaccinated. Also, we have the first portion of teachers vaccinated, but they don't even have their second vaccines in. We just sent all kids back to school, which we would like to keep them in school."

Friesen, at the least, wants to see more evidence. He believes that masks should be worn, but that the county commission shouldn't necessarily mandate them.

"That's where I'm seeing the difference here, between forcing somebody and having the burden of proof that it seems like we're having trouble developing and one notch less, which is, hey, this is highly recommended. Let's keep doing it until we're out of this."

He wanted to give the medical community a chance to provide their proof before voting to take anything away, so the item has been scheduled to be revisited on March 30.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —The Board of Reno County Commissioners will be looking later this month at whether or not a mask mandate is still needed in the county. "I think some of the policies probably were a little overreactive," said County Commissioner Daniel Friesen. "At what point do we acknowledge that and start to kind of move to reopening, to a point where we look at the evidence and say this is working and this is not."The Reno County Medical Collaborative advised the commission that they should keep the mandate a little longer to allow for further vaccinations."It would be our recommendation to not opt out of the Governor's mask mandate at this time," said Karen Hammersmith with the Reno County Health Department. "We feel that this is premature. Our numbers are coming down. We have gotten the high priority people as far as those 65 and older vaccinated. Also, we have the first portion of teachers vaccinated, but they don't even have their second vaccines in. We just sent all kids back to school, which we would like to keep them in school."Friesen, at the least, wants to see more evidence. He believes that masks should be worn, but that the county commission shouldn't necessarily mandate them."That's where I'm seeing the difference here, between forcing somebody and having the burden of proof that it seems like we're having trouble developing and one notch less, which is, hey, this is highly recommended. Let's keep doing it until we're out of this."He wanted to give the medical community a chance to provide their proof before voting to take anything away, so the item has been scheduled to be revisited on March 30.
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Mask mandate to be revisited March 30

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board is putting their search for a new superintendent into motion.

The Board heard a presentation from the Kansas Association of School Boards who will lead the search to fill the vacant position. The Board has set a timeline of just four weeks to find a replacement for Dr. Dawn Johnson who is now the Executive Director of Human Resources for Hutchinson USD 308.&nbsp;

The KASB will assemble a subcommittee made up of teachers, staff and community leaders along with students to find out what they want in a new superintendent. If all goes as planned, they hope to have an offer to their candidate of choice by mid-April.

Also Monday night, the Board approved the school calendar for the year and held a lengthy discussion on what to do about the softball field. The district uses both Fun Valley and the Nickerson city diamond for games. The city diamond is in need of repairs and Fun Valley is off-site.&nbsp;

The district has been entertaining the idea of building a new softball field adjacent to the current baseball field at the high school. No action was taken.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board is putting their search for a new superintendent into motion.The Board heard a presentation from the Kansas Association of School Boards who will lead the search to fill the vacant position. The Board has set a timeline of just four weeks to find a replacement for Dr. Dawn Johnson who is now the Executive Director of Human Resources for Hutchinson USD 308.&nbsp;The KASB will assemble a subcommittee made up of teachers, staff and community leaders along with students to find out what they want in a new superintendent. If all goes as planned, they hope to have an offer to their candidate of choice by mid-April.Also Monday night, the Board approved the school calendar for the year and held a lengthy discussion on what to do about the softball field. The district uses both Fun Valley and the Nickerson city diamond for games. The city diamond is in need of repairs and Fun Valley is off-site.&nbsp;The district has been entertaining the idea of building a new softball field adjacent to the current baseball field at the high school. No action was taken.<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 309 ready to begin search for new superintendent

Reno County, Kansas – March 9, 2021 –&nbsp;The Reno County Health Department is ready to start vaccinating those in phase 2c, as well as anyone remaining from previous phases. Phase 2c includes high-contact critical workers.

Kansas defines high-contact critical workers as grocery store and food service employees, K-12 staff and childcare workers, food processing and meat processing plants, aviation manufacturing plants, transportation workers, firefighters, police officers, first responders and corrections officers. Many K-12 staff, first responders and meat processing plant employees have already been vaccinated, as well as those living in congregate settings from Phase 2b. Workers in retail, warehouse, sales, agriculture, postal service, or department of motor vehicles may also be considered high-contact critical workers if they regularly need to be in high-risk settings to perform their duties.

The Health Department is currently scheduling for the March 15 vaccination clinic that runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. If you identify yourself as a high-contact critical worker, go online to&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.renogov.org/rchd/covid19-registration/" target="_blank">https://forms.renogov.org/rchd/covid19-registration/</a>. Choose the&nbsp;I am a high-contact critical worker&nbsp;category, and in the employer drop down box, choose&nbsp;Unlisted/Other, high-contact critical worker, and complete the information as requested to schedule your appointment. You will receive an email appointment confirmation after submitting successfully. If computer access is not available, please call the health department at&nbsp;620-694-2900 and select option 6&nbsp;for assistance with scheduling an appointment.

As a reminder, if you have received the treatment of monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma for Covid-19 in the last 90 days (this does not include antibiotics or steroids), have received any other vaccine in the previous 14 days, have previously had severe allergic response to an ingredient in the vaccine, or reaction to a vaccine in the past (anaphylaxis), please do not schedule a vaccine at this time.

For more information about the vaccines, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19" target="_blank">www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613693226012.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reno County, Kansas – March 9, 2021 –&nbsp;The Reno County Health Department is ready to start vaccinating those in phase 2c, as well as anyone remaining from previous phases. Phase 2c includes high-contact critical workers.Kansas defines high-contact critical workers as grocery store and food service employees, K-12 staff and childcare workers, food processing and meat processing plants, aviation manufacturing plants, transportation workers, firefighters, police officers, first responders and corrections officers. Many K-12 staff, first responders and meat processing plant employees have already been vaccinated, as well as those living in congregate settings from Phase 2b. Workers in retail, warehouse, sales, agriculture, postal service, or department of motor vehicles may also be considered high-contact critical workers if they regularly need to be in high-risk settings to perform their duties.The Health Department is currently scheduling for the March 15 vaccination clinic that runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. If you identify yourself as a high-contact critical worker, go online to&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.renogov.org/rchd/covid19-registration/" target="_blank">https://forms.renogov.org/rchd/covid19-registration/</a>. Choose the&nbsp;I am a high-contact critical worker&nbsp;category, and in the employer drop down box, choose&nbsp;Unlisted/Other, high-contact critical worker, and complete the information as requested to schedule your appointment. You will receive an email appointment confirmation after submitting successfully. If computer access is not available, please call the health department at&nbsp;620-694-2900 and select option 6&nbsp;for assistance with scheduling an appointment.As a reminder, if you have received the treatment of monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma for Covid-19 in the last 90 days (this does not include antibiotics or steroids), have received any other vaccine in the previous 14 days, have previously had severe allergic response to an ingredient in the vaccine, or reaction to a vaccine in the past (anaphylaxis), please do not schedule a vaccine at this time.For more information about the vaccines, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19" target="_blank">www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19</a>.

County now taking appointments for high-contact critical workers

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department has taken several calls already this week about people burning. Once again, here are the rules about burning inside the city limits of Hutchinson. Please read and follow them, this may prevent you from having problems for yourself, your neighbors, and us as well.

Are you allowed to burn trash and branches or have camp fires in Hutchinson?

You are not allowed to burn trash within the city limits of Hutchinson. You may however burn non dimensional lumber such as downed branches and tree trimmings. You are also allowed to have recreational and ceremonial fires as long as they adhere to the following burn regulations.

Open Burning and Recreational Fires Laws 

Section 307 of the International Fire Code

• Must call for a burn permit to be issued for open burning, bonfires, or for the purpose of silvicultural or range or wildlife management. (burning downed branches, leaves, grass clippings, to burn off a spot for a garden etc.)

• No permit needed for recreational fires. (campfire, cooking hot dogs or marshmallows, religious ceremonies)

• An open burn pile must be at least 50 ft. away from structures.

• Recreational fires must be at least 25 ft. away from structures.

• The size of a recreational fire is defined as being no bigger than 3 ft. or less in diameter and 2 ft. or less in height.

• Portable outdoor fireplaces must be at least 15 ft. away from structures.

• Must have a means to extinguish the fire readily accessible. Extinguisher, garden hose, dirt, sand, and shovels to spread the dirt and sand.

• Must always be attended and never left to burn on its own in case it needs to be extinguished quickly.

• No burning, open or recreational, when atmospheric conditions or local conditions, known commonly as “red flag” days would make it hazardous to burn.

• It is also illegal to burn anything in a burn barrel, such as a 55 gallon drum, in the City of Hutchinson.

For further information please call the Community Risk Reduction Division at 620-694-2874 or ask in the comments and we will reply as soon as possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department has taken several calls already this week about people burning. Once again, here are the rules about burning inside the city limits of Hutchinson. Please read and follow them, this may prevent you from having problems for yourself, your neighbors, and us as well.Are you allowed to burn trash and branches or have camp fires in Hutchinson?You are not allowed to burn trash within the city limits of Hutchinson. You may however burn non dimensional lumber such as downed branches and tree trimmings. You are also allowed to have recreational and ceremonial fires as long as they adhere to the following burn regulations.Open Burning and Recreational Fires Laws Section 307 of the International Fire Code• Must call for a burn permit to be issued for open burning, bonfires, or for the purpose of silvicultural or range or wildlife management. (burning downed branches, leaves, grass clippings, to burn off a spot for a garden etc.)• No permit needed for recreational fires. (campfire, cooking hot dogs or marshmallows, religious ceremonies)• An open burn pile must be at least 50 ft. away from structures.• Recreational fires must be at least 25 ft. away from structures.• The size of a recreational fire is defined as being no bigger than 3 ft. or less in diameter and 2 ft. or less in height.• Portable outdoor fireplaces must be at least 15 ft. away from structures.• Must have a means to extinguish the fire readily accessible. Extinguisher, garden hose, dirt, sand, and shovels to spread the dirt and sand.• Must always be attended and never left to burn on its own in case it needs to be extinguished quickly.• No burning, open or recreational, when atmospheric conditions or local conditions, known commonly as “red flag” days would make it hazardous to burn.• It is also illegal to burn anything in a burn barrel, such as a 55 gallon drum, in the City of Hutchinson.For further information please call the Community Risk Reduction Division at 620-694-2874 or ask in the comments and we will reply as soon as possible.<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;

HFD reminds residents of rules for burning in the city limits

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Wind Advisory from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday.

South winds 25 to 30 mph are expected with wind gusts up to 40  mph.

Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may  result.

High profile vehicles should use extra  caution on east and west roads. Blowing dust is also a  possibility during the afternoon.

Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615288674454.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Wind Advisory from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday.South winds 25 to 30 mph are expected with wind gusts up to 40 mph.Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.High profile vehicles should use extra caution on east and west roads. Blowing dust is also a possibility during the afternoon.Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

Wind advisory in effect Tuesday afternoon


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 86 as of Monday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 138. The last time we were at or below this case level was mid-September.

Out of 7,720 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,496 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. 

No Reno County residents are in the hospital with COVID-19 as of Monday, nor are there any cases as part of documented long-term care facility clusters. The last day with a documented hospital admission was February 23.

The Positive Test Rate rolling average is at 7.0%, which leaves schools in the yellow for gating criteria for this week.

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>.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 86 as of Monday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 138. The last time we were at or below this case level was mid-September.Out of 7,720 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,496 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. No Reno County residents are in the hospital with COVID-19 as of Monday, nor are there any cases as part of documented long-term care facility clusters. The last day with a documented hospital admission was February 23.The Positive Test Rate rolling average is at 7.0%, which leaves schools in the yellow for gating criteria for this week.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>.

Dashboard does not show any long-term care facility cases as of Monday, only 86 overall

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Ulster Project will not be held in Hutchinson again this year. The mission project which has been in the city since 2000 was also canceled last year due to the pandemic. 

Keith Niell, the President of the Hutchinson Ulster Project, says that the situation in Northern Ireland has not eased yet due to the pandemic and bringing the teens here to Hutchinson simply takes too much planning to make it happen this year.

Neill says that the group of students that would have made up the class of 2020 is still young enough that most if not all will still be able to participate in the Ulster Project in 2022 if they choose. Niell also says that they might expand the program to accommodate those who wish to participate when the program kicks off again next year.

The Project came to Hutchinson as a result of researching a Saint Patrick’s Day program in 1999 and an eventual agreement between a group from Trinity United Methodist Church and Holy Cross Catholic Church. The program brings teens of both Catholic and Protestant faith from Northern Ireland to live with teens from Hutchinson for one month during the summer. Together they learn to build relationships and understanding about their very different lives and learn more about their secular differences.

The Ulster Project was started in 1975 by Rev. Kerry Waterstone, a priest in Northern Ireland, in order to provide a safe place in North America for Northern Irish teenagers to discuss the climate of  “The Troubles” that was facing them at home. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615237725925.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Ulster Project will not be held in Hutchinson again this year. The mission project which has been in the city since 2000 was also canceled last year due to the pandemic. Keith Niell, the President of the Hutchinson Ulster Project, says that the situation in Northern Ireland has not eased yet due to the pandemic and bringing the teens here to Hutchinson simply takes too much planning to make it happen this year.Neill says that the group of students that would have made up the class of 2020 is still young enough that most if not all will still be able to participate in the Ulster Project in 2022 if they choose. Niell also says that they might expand the program to accommodate those who wish to participate when the program kicks off again next year.The Project came to Hutchinson as a result of researching a Saint Patrick’s Day program in 1999 and an eventual agreement between a group from Trinity United Methodist Church and Holy Cross Catholic Church. The program brings teens of both Catholic and Protestant faith from Northern Ireland to live with teens from Hutchinson for one month during the summer. Together they learn to build relationships and understanding about their very different lives and learn more about their secular differences.The Ulster Project was started in 1975 by Rev. Kerry Waterstone, a priest in Northern Ireland, in order to provide a safe place in North America for Northern Irish teenagers to discuss the climate of “The Troubles” that was facing them at home.

Ulster Project canceled again for 2021

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The Pretty Prairie USD 311 school district has a new superintendent. The Board of Education announced the selection of Ashley Anderson as the new superintendent. Anderson will begin her new duties with USD 311 on July 1. She replaces Randy Hendrickson who announced his resignation at the end of the 2020- 2021 school year.&nbsp;

Anderson is currently the Curriculum Director in the Savannah Missouri School District near St. Joseph. She is originally from a small town in Chase County near Emporia. She received her Masters and Specialist degrees from Fort HaysState University.&nbsp;

Board President, Sid Graber, says that Anderson emerged from a very thorough search process as the right candidate to lead the School District. “The Board is certain in our choice of Ashley Anderson and confident that under her leadership USD 311 will continue to provide a high-quality education and opportunities for personal growth to Pretty Prairie's youth,” Graber said in a release from the district. Graber noted that community input, including the involvement of stakeholders was a key factor in the success of the superintendent search process.&nbsp;

The committees included teachers and administrators, parents, and community members.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615234842980.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The Pretty Prairie USD 311 school district has a new superintendent. The Board of Education announced the selection of Ashley Anderson as the new superintendent. Anderson will begin her new duties with USD 311 on July 1. She replaces Randy Hendrickson who announced his resignation at the end of the 2020- 2021 school year.&nbsp;Anderson is currently the Curriculum Director in the Savannah Missouri School District near St. Joseph. She is originally from a small town in Chase County near Emporia. She received her Masters and Specialist degrees from Fort HaysState University.&nbsp;Board President, Sid Graber, says that Anderson emerged from a very thorough search process as the right candidate to lead the School District. “The Board is certain in our choice of Ashley Anderson and confident that under her leadership USD 311 will continue to provide a high-quality education and opportunities for personal growth to Pretty Prairie's youth,” Graber said in a release from the district. Graber noted that community input, including the involvement of stakeholders was a key factor in the success of the superintendent search process.&nbsp;The committees included teachers and administrators, parents, and community members.&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;

Anderson named superintendent in Pretty Prairie USD 311


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Stage 9's production of The Sound of Music is coming up later this month. 

The story is based on the real life of the Von Trapp Family singers, one of the world’s best-known concert groups in the era immediately preceding World War II. 

The story begins with Maria, an Austrian maiden who must choose between secular and religious life when her convent sends her to act as governess to the seven children of a stern widowed naval captain. She falls in love with the Von Trapp’s and brings a new love of life and music into the home as Nazi storm clouds gather over the country. 

Buy tickets now at <a href="https://www.stage9hutch.com/">stage9hutch.com</a> or <a href="https://stage9.booktix.com/">stage9.booktix.com</a>! This show will be live streamed on BookTixLive! Once you buy a ticket, you will automatically be sent a link in your confirmation email! Tickets are $25 for an unlimited amount of people in one household! Performances are March 19th-21st &amp; 26th-28th!

Friday and Saturday shows will premiere at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. each weekend.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Stage 9's production of The Sound of Music is coming up later this month. The story is based on the real life of the Von Trapp Family singers, one of the world’s best-known concert groups in the era immediately preceding World War II. The story begins with Maria, an Austrian maiden who must choose between secular and religious life when her convent sends her to act as governess to the seven children of a stern widowed naval captain. She falls in love with the Von Trapp’s and brings a new love of life and music into the home as Nazi storm clouds gather over the country. Buy tickets now at <a href="https://www.stage9hutch.com/">stage9hutch.com</a> or <a href="https://stage9.booktix.com/">stage9.booktix.com</a>! This show will be live streamed on BookTixLive! Once you buy a ticket, you will automatically be sent a link in your confirmation email! Tickets are $25 for an unlimited amount of people in one household! Performances are March 19th-21st &amp; 26th-28th! Friday and Saturday shows will premiere at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. each weekend.

Tickets on sale for Stage 9's Sound of Music production


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Once the Kansas House returns from the turnaround break this week, discussions will begin on an education bill that has rolled together most of the major issues for K-12 into one piece of business.

"The bill now includes the budget or the funding for the Department of Education, which is all the aid to local school districts, so it's the funding," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards. "It also extends the state mill levy, which is part of the way schools are funded. That has to be done every two years. Then, it contains two new provisions dealing with private school aid, which has been a big topic this session. Finally, there's provisions dealing with remote learning. Of course, the whole issue of how schools have dealt with the pandemic has been a big topic."

The question that still needs to be resolved is whether putting so much legislation together gains overall votes or loses them.

"It's always an issue in legislative strategy, do you put a lot of things together in hope that parts of it are popular enough to get enough votes to maybe get some things not as popular, or, if you put too much in one, does it just sink the whole thing?," asked Tallman.

There is still the floor amendment process to go through in the House, plus any adjustments the Kansas Senate might choose to make.

"When you throw in the hurdle of getting what the Governor would agree to, what she would sign and the fact that there could be a majority of legislators that say, we've got to pass a budget," Tallman said. "The deadline may be, will a majority of legislators kind of want these other pieces to pass a budget, even though there might not be two-thirds support to do that. We could be a long way from resolving this."

The specifics on when the education budget bill might be on the floor have not been released as of Monday.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Once the Kansas House returns from the turnaround break this week, discussions will begin on an education bill that has rolled together most of the major issues for K-12 into one piece of business."The bill now includes the budget or the funding for the Department of Education, which is all the aid to local school districts, so it's the funding," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards. "It also extends the state mill levy, which is part of the way schools are funded. That has to be done every two years. Then, it contains two new provisions dealing with private school aid, which has been a big topic this session. Finally, there's provisions dealing with remote learning. Of course, the whole issue of how schools have dealt with the pandemic has been a big topic."The question that still needs to be resolved is whether putting so much legislation together gains overall votes or loses them."It's always an issue in legislative strategy, do you put a lot of things together in hope that parts of it are popular enough to get enough votes to maybe get some things not as popular, or, if you put too much in one, does it just sink the whole thing?," asked Tallman.There is still the floor amendment process to go through in the House, plus any adjustments the Kansas Senate might choose to make."When you throw in the hurdle of getting what the Governor would agree to, what she would sign and the fact that there could be a majority of legislators that say, we've got to pass a budget," Tallman said. "The deadline may be, will a majority of legislators kind of want these other pieces to pass a budget, even though there might not be two-thirds support to do that. We could be a long way from resolving this."The specifics on when the education budget bill might be on the floor have not been released as of Monday.

Tallman: Many education issues all rolled into one Kansas House bill

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council will meet this evening in a special session. The meeting will involve an executive session to discuss non-elected personnel.&nbsp;

The meeting comes five days after the Council held a special meeting and hired former Hillsboro City Administrator Larry Paine as the interim City Administrator. Paine recently retired from Hillsboro and was replaced by former South Hutchinson City Administrator Matt Stiles who abruptly resigned from the South Hutchinson position in 2018.

The Council is looking to bring a City Administrator back on board and is working on what direction to take in filling the spot. Tonight's meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the South Hutchinson city offices.

<figure>
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 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council will meet this evening in a special session. The meeting will involve an executive session to discuss non-elected personnel.&nbsp;The meeting comes five days after the Council held a special meeting and hired former Hillsboro City Administrator Larry Paine as the interim City Administrator. Paine recently retired from Hillsboro and was replaced by former South Hutchinson City Administrator Matt Stiles who abruptly resigned from the South Hutchinson position in 2018.The Council is looking to bring a City Administrator back on board and is working on what direction to take in filling the spot. Tonight's meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the South Hutchinson city offices.