HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank reported to the Board of County Commissioners on Wednesday about the real estate activity in the county.

"People create value by their actions in the real estate market and we are simply reporting on and interpreting those actions," Plank said. "After analyzing over 1,200 residential sales for validation last year, we're on a similar pace for in terms of number of sales this year. We're trending to have over 1,200 sales again, just residential."

Validated sales are the ones used in the county's valuation process at the end of the year. 

"Sales are validated according to the definition of fair market value found in statute, specifically 79-503(a).&nbsp; The average validated sales price for residential property countywide increased by a little over 6% in each of the last five years and throughout the first eight months so far in 2024, we have seen the average sales price of validated residential sales remain steady compared to last year."

Just because prices are steady doesn't necessarily mean valuations will be.

"The current real estate market continues to drive up residential values here in Reno County because inventory is still low, it's still near historical lows and demand remains high," Plank said. "Throughout the first half of 2024, sales prices have leveled off like we just said and remain steady in comparison with our 2023 sales. We do not expect to see a drop in the local housing market, especially considering the projected interest rate cuts. There are always exceptions, but for the most part, residential property in Reno County is still selling in less than two weeks and selling at or above its listing price. While the market has leveled off, preliminary trend studies for the 2024 valuation coming up here next January indicate that we are looking at another increase in property valuations."

This has more to do with the hot market in the last few years than anything.

"Here in Reno County, we utilize the last three years of sales when setting up our modeling. Using three years of sales in our modeling has the effect of keeping valuations from overreacting to fastupward changes in the market or when the market levels offer slows down, then it is equally slow in reacting to that trend as well. For this upcoming valuation cycle, we'll be dropping off our 2021 sales and modeling in our 2024 sales."

Plank said his staff has been able to resolve most of the appeals in his office.

"Staff was able to provide hard sales data, show trends, demonstrate general knowledge of the local housing market, and explain our statutory duty to value property at a figure derived from local market activity," Plank said. "Once people understand what our office does in terms of reporting on the market and to a certain extent, at least how we do it, it often answers most of these types of questions, even if they aren't necessarily happy with the answer or the results."

Reno County has once again been certified as being in substantial compliance with PVD, which is the highest rating a county can get for valuing accurately according to statute.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709395037420.jpeg" alt="Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank. Photo by Sandra Milburn." />
 <figcaption>Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank. Photo by Sandra Milburn.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank reported to the Board of County Commissioners on Wednesday about the real estate activity in the county."People create value by their actions in the real estate market and we are simply reporting on and interpreting those actions," Plank said. "After analyzing over 1,200 residential sales for validation last year, we're on a similar pace for in terms of number of sales this year. We're trending to have over 1,200 sales again, just residential."Validated sales are the ones used in the county's valuation process at the end of the year. "Sales are validated according to the definition of fair market value found in statute, specifically 79-503(a).&nbsp; The average validated sales price for residential property countywide increased by a little over 6% in each of the last five years and throughout the first eight months so far in 2024, we have seen the average sales price of validated residential sales remain steady compared to last year."Just because prices are steady doesn't necessarily mean valuations will be."The current real estate market continues to drive up residential values here in Reno County because inventory is still low, it's still near historical lows and demand remains high," Plank said. "Throughout the first half of 2024, sales prices have leveled off like we just said and remain steady in comparison with our 2023 sales. We do not expect to see a drop in the local housing market, especially considering the projected interest rate cuts. There are always exceptions, but for the most part, residential property in Reno County is still selling in less than two weeks and selling at or above its listing price. While the market has leveled off, preliminary trend studies for the 2024 valuation coming up here next January indicate that we are looking at another increase in property valuations."This has more to do with the hot market in the last few years than anything."Here in Reno County, we utilize the last three years of sales when setting up our modeling. Using three years of sales in our modeling has the effect of keeping valuations from overreacting to fastupward changes in the market or when the market levels offer slows down, then it is equally slow in reacting to that trend as well. For this upcoming valuation cycle, we'll be dropping off our 2021 sales and modeling in our 2024 sales."Plank said his staff has been able to resolve most of the appeals in his office."Staff was able to provide hard sales data, show trends, demonstrate general knowledge of the local housing market, and explain our statutory duty to value property at a figure derived from local market activity," Plank said. "Once people understand what our office does in terms of reporting on the market and to a certain extent, at least how we do it, it often answers most of these types of questions, even if they aren't necessarily happy with the answer or the results."Reno County has once again been certified as being in substantial compliance with PVD, which is the highest rating a county can get for valuing accurately according to statute.&nbsp;

Appraiser says valuations likely to go up in 2025

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Per Aspera, a play written by Heidi Unruh, takes the stage at the Flag Theatre in Hutchinson this weekend. The play is about the impact of the space program on the families of the astronauts.

"The idea for this play started about 15 years ago,"&nbsp; Unruh said. "I was reading a picture book autobiography of Buzz Aldrin to my son, my young son. And that got me interested in the life stories of astronauts, and the more reading I did, so many amazing stories come to light."

The stories of the difficulties the astronauts faced will take you through many emotions.

"Some are shocking, some are tragic, others inspirational and heroic," Unruh said. "I guarantee you will be surprised by some of the history. Everything in the play is based on historical fact. It's told in an imaginative way, but all the main characters and the incidents described in the play are absolutely real, except for the time travel. That part I made up."

According to director Craig Williams, taking on a brand new play provides opportunities and challenges. Unruh is glad they were willing to go on the journey with her.

"I'm so, so grateful to Family Community Theater and Craig and the rest of the crew for taking this play on," Unruh said. "They took on a chance. They were going into the unknown with me. The opportunity to work, like Craig said, with a cast that brings to life the play in some ways I could not have dreamed of when I wrote the script. There've been a few changes, but I think all for the better."&nbsp; 

Showtimes for Per Aspera are Sept. 26-28 at 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 29 at 3 p.m. All performances are at the Flag Theater located at 310 N. Main St. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.familycommunitytheatre.org/tickets">familycommunitytheatre.org</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727186165049.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Per Aspera, a play written by Heidi Unruh, takes the stage at the Flag Theatre in Hutchinson this weekend. The play is about the impact of the space program on the families of the astronauts."The idea for this play started about 15 years ago,"&nbsp; Unruh said. "I was reading a picture book autobiography of Buzz Aldrin to my son, my young son. And that got me interested in the life stories of astronauts, and the more reading I did, so many amazing stories come to light."The stories of the difficulties the astronauts faced will take you through many emotions."Some are shocking, some are tragic, others inspirational and heroic," Unruh said. "I guarantee you will be surprised by some of the history. Everything in the play is based on historical fact. It's told in an imaginative way, but all the main characters and the incidents described in the play are absolutely real, except for the time travel. That part I made up."According to director Craig Williams, taking on a brand new play provides opportunities and challenges. Unruh is glad they were willing to go on the journey with her."I'm so, so grateful to Family Community Theater and Craig and the rest of the crew for taking this play on," Unruh said. "They took on a chance. They were going into the unknown with me. The opportunity to work, like Craig said, with a cast that brings to life the play in some ways I could not have dreamed of when I wrote the script. There've been a few changes, but I think all for the better."&nbsp; Showtimes for Per Aspera are Sept. 26-28 at 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 29 at 3 p.m. All performances are at the Flag Theater located at 310 N. Main St. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.familycommunitytheatre.org/tickets">familycommunitytheatre.org</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Local playwright sees vision come to FCT stage

HARVEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 6 p.m. Tuesday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Ford Ranger driven by Jaden Malachi Taylor, 20, El Dorado, was eastbound on Kansas 196 and rear-ended a 2015 Chevy Cruze driven by Tonya Marie&nbsp;Buche, 63, Sedgwick, who was slowing down to turn on South Spencer Road.&nbsp; After impact the car left the road and came to rest in the south ditch.

EMS transported&nbsp;Buche to a Wesley Medical Center. Taylor was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717498648709.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 6 p.m. Tuesday in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Ford Ranger driven by Jaden Malachi Taylor, 20, El Dorado, was eastbound on Kansas 196 and rear-ended a 2015 Chevy Cruze driven by Tonya Marie&nbsp;Buche, 63, Sedgwick, who was slowing down to turn on South Spencer Road.&nbsp; After impact the car left the road and came to rest in the south ditch.EMS transported&nbsp;Buche to a Wesley Medical Center. Taylor was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after Harvey Co. rear-end crash

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Sunshine Meadows in Buhler is still looking for clients to fill its new&nbsp;Selah Memory Care unit that opened last week.

"We're looking for people to serve that still are able to get around," said Nathan Spencer with Sunshine Meadows. "They don't need a wheelchair. They can move around independently and then also, they can do their own activities of daily living as far as like getting dressed and feeding themselves and stuff like that. That's kind of a level of care that this will be, but obviously still having a diagnosis of Dementia or Alzheimer's and have that cognitive decline and need the special services."

There are still eight openings in the twelve bed unit, according to Spencer.

"Studies have shown that the more interaction that you have, the more you know," Spencer said. "That one-on-one activity and keeping the mind active, it's something that can delay the downward spiral."

This would enter that person into the continuum of care there as well, so that they could be moved when the need arises.

"Once they would get to a place where they wouldn't qualify for the criteria back there, really that being the mobility and the ADL's, then we would look at transitioning them over to our nursing in general or even in our memory care that we have inside of our skilled nursing building," Spencer said.

If you have further questions about the new Selah Memory Care unit, contact Sunshine Meadows at (620) 543-2251.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727192725895.jpeg" alt="Sunshine Meadows in Buhler opened their new Selah Memory Care Unit last week. Image Courtesy Sunshine Meadows." />
 <figcaption>Sunshine Meadows in Buhler opened their new Selah Memory Care Unit last week. Image Courtesy Sunshine Meadows.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Sunshine Meadows in Buhler is still looking for clients to fill its new&nbsp;Selah Memory Care unit that opened last week."We're looking for people to serve that still are able to get around," said Nathan Spencer with Sunshine Meadows. "They don't need a wheelchair. They can move around independently and then also, they can do their own activities of daily living as far as like getting dressed and feeding themselves and stuff like that. That's kind of a level of care that this will be, but obviously still having a diagnosis of Dementia or Alzheimer's and have that cognitive decline and need the special services."There are still eight openings in the twelve bed unit, according to Spencer."Studies have shown that the more interaction that you have, the more you know," Spencer said. "That one-on-one activity and keeping the mind active, it's something that can delay the downward spiral."This would enter that person into the continuum of care there as well, so that they could be moved when the need arises."Once they would get to a place where they wouldn't qualify for the criteria back there, really that being the mobility and the ADL's, then we would look at transitioning them over to our nursing in general or even in our memory care that we have inside of our skilled nursing building," Spencer said.If you have further questions about the new Selah Memory Care unit, contact Sunshine Meadows at (620) 543-2251.

Sunshine Meadows looking to fill new unit

WICHITA, Kan. — The 2024 Ride Like MADD Poker Run presented by Bretz Injury Law is coming up next month. 

The run will take place in Wichita on Saturday, Oct. 5 with registration starting at 9:30 a.m. at Jay Hatfield Honda Powerhouse, 11212 E Kellogg Drive. 

This poker run helps raise funds and awareness for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in the effort to stop drunk and drugged driving.

Entry is $25 a hand or $50 for 3 hands with proceeds benefitting MADD of Kansas. Payouts are as follows: 25% for the best hand, 15% for the second best hand, and 10% for the worst hand. Stops include Cycle Gear, Pinkies, Savage Cycles, Freedom Road Cycles, and Twister City Harley-Davidson. A free lunch will be served after the run courtesy of Twister City and the PrairieThunder HOG Chapter. There will be a $5 raffle and plenty of door prizes. Donations are accepted and all vehicles are welcome.

This year, we ride in memory of Ashley Austin, who lost her life to an impaired driver on December 19th, 2023. Ashley will be forever remembered as a beloved agriculture education teacher at Canton-Galva High School. Growing up on a farm fostered her passion for agriculture, leading her to start the first FFA program for USD 419. Her dedication to her students will have long-lasting effects on the present and future generations. Ashley is greatly loved and deeply missed by her family, friends, students, and her dog Rowan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727255866498.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — The 2024 Ride Like MADD Poker Run presented by Bretz Injury Law is coming up next month. The run will take place in Wichita on Saturday, Oct. 5 with registration starting at 9:30 a.m. at Jay Hatfield Honda Powerhouse, 11212 E Kellogg Drive. This poker run helps raise funds and awareness for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in the effort to stop drunk and drugged driving.Entry is $25 a hand or $50 for 3 hands with proceeds benefitting MADD of Kansas. Payouts are as follows: 25% for the best hand, 15% for the second best hand, and 10% for the worst hand. Stops include Cycle Gear, Pinkies, Savage Cycles, Freedom Road Cycles, and Twister City Harley-Davidson. A free lunch will be served after the run courtesy of Twister City and the PrairieThunder HOG Chapter. There will be a $5 raffle and plenty of door prizes. Donations are accepted and all vehicles are welcome.This year, we ride in memory of Ashley Austin, who lost her life to an impaired driver on December 19th, 2023. Ashley will be forever remembered as a beloved agriculture education teacher at Canton-Galva High School. Growing up on a farm fostered her passion for agriculture, leading her to start the first FFA program for USD 419. Her dedication to her students will have long-lasting effects on the present and future generations. Ashley is greatly loved and deeply missed by her family, friends, students, and her dog Rowan.

Poker Run to benefit MADD next month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School senior Mya Cook has been recognized as a Commended Student by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. She is considering furthering her education at either the University of Kansas or Kansas State University after graduation in the spring. Mya particularly enjoyed her drafting classes at HHS and is contemplating a major in architectural engineering or physical science.

Mya Cook expressed her gratitude for the support she received from her teachers at HHS, particularly highlighting the invaluable guidance of Mrs. Malashchuk, her seminar teacher and gifted advisor. Mya appreciated how Mrs. Malaschuk fostered an encouraging learning environment that allowed her to flourish academically. She also fondly recalled her experiences with Mr. McCandless, an International Baccalaureate teacher and Scholars Bowl sponsor, noting, “He always pushed me to try and do my best!” Mya credits this strong support system for helping her navigate her high school journey and pursue her ambitious educational goals.

Mya was actively involved in a range of extracurricular activities at HHS, including track, Scholars Bowl, band, and cross country, while also pursuing International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. She believes that her participation in these IB classes has played a significant role in her academic success. Mya stated, "Taking IB courses has been a huge contributor to my success. For me, the one-on-one interaction with the teachers was invaluable and provided me with great benefits." This personalized attention helped her not only grasp complex subjects more effectively but also motivated her to strive for excellence in all her endeavors.

Mya achieved a top 3% or above score on the PSAT and an ACT score of 34. The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) Selection Index score is calculated using a student’s section scores.  The Commended Scholars receive Letters of Commendation. 

Hutchinson High School’s most recent National Merit Scholar was Morgan Hixson, class of 2023, now studying at the University of Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727255470181.jpeg" alt="Mya Cook" />
 <figcaption>Mya Cook</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School senior Mya Cook has been recognized as a Commended Student by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. She is considering furthering her education at either the University of Kansas or Kansas State University after graduation in the spring. Mya particularly enjoyed her drafting classes at HHS and is contemplating a major in architectural engineering or physical science.Mya Cook expressed her gratitude for the support she received from her teachers at HHS, particularly highlighting the invaluable guidance of Mrs. Malashchuk, her seminar teacher and gifted advisor. Mya appreciated how Mrs. Malaschuk fostered an encouraging learning environment that allowed her to flourish academically. She also fondly recalled her experiences with Mr. McCandless, an International Baccalaureate teacher and Scholars Bowl sponsor, noting, “He always pushed me to try and do my best!” Mya credits this strong support system for helping her navigate her high school journey and pursue her ambitious educational goals.Mya was actively involved in a range of extracurricular activities at HHS, including track, Scholars Bowl, band, and cross country, while also pursuing International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. She believes that her participation in these IB classes has played a significant role in her academic success. Mya stated, "Taking IB courses has been a huge contributor to my success. For me, the one-on-one interaction with the teachers was invaluable and provided me with great benefits." This personalized attention helped her not only grasp complex subjects more effectively but also motivated her to strive for excellence in all her endeavors.Mya achieved a top 3% or above score on the PSAT and an ACT score of 34. The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) Selection Index score is calculated using a student’s section scores. The Commended Scholars receive Letters of Commendation. Hutchinson High School’s most recent National Merit Scholar was Morgan Hixson, class of 2023, now studying at the University of Nebraska.

Hutch High Senior, Mya Cook, receives National Merit Scholar Commendation

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

9/25/2024 1:32 AM-Cherie	Christine Baker-Probation Violation; Failure to Appear

9/24/2024 5:18 PM-Gavin	Mitchell Tobias Simmons-Poss of depressant; DUI; 1st conv; drugs or combination of drugs; Insurance; Fail to maintain liability insurance&nbsp;

9/24/2024 12:47 PM-Anacelia	Chantel Blanton-Probation Violation&nbsp;

9/24/2024 11:38 AM-Ruben	Lee Cox-Sexual Exploitation of a Child; Promote performance of child &lt;18&nbsp;

9/24/2024 10:30 AM-Laquisha	Denise McPherson-Direct Contempt&nbsp;

9/24/2024 10:26 AM-Miguel	Jose Retiz-Direct Contempt

9/24/2024 9:41 AM-David	Lee Smith-Probation Violation

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;9/25/2024 1:32 AM-Cherie	Christine Baker-Probation Violation; Failure to Appear9/24/2024 5:18 PM-Gavin	Mitchell Tobias Simmons-Poss of depressant; DUI; 1st conv; drugs or combination of drugs; Insurance; Fail to maintain liability insurance&nbsp;9/24/2024 12:47 PM-Anacelia	Chantel Blanton-Probation Violation&nbsp;9/24/2024 11:38 AM-Ruben	Lee Cox-Sexual Exploitation of a Child; Promote performance of child &lt;18&nbsp;9/24/2024 10:30 AM-Laquisha	Denise McPherson-Direct Contempt&nbsp;9/24/2024 10:26 AM-Miguel	Jose Retiz-Direct Contempt9/24/2024 9:41 AM-David	Lee Smith-Probation Violation

Daily Bookings

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of Education of USD 308 will convened for a regular meeting on Monday, September 23, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at the USD 308 Administration Center, located at 1520 N. Plum, Hutchinson.

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call to establish a quorum. Key agenda items included public participation, updates from the Superintendent and curriculum reports, and decisions on the Childcare Expansion Project and various inter-agency agreements.

During the Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Johnson spoke to the ongoing bond discussion. She presented 2024-2025 bond requests and spoke to the bond cap valuation process. The current year bond cap is $590,000,000. Earlier this year, the Board voted in favor of pursuing a bond up to $110,000,000. &nbsp;The USD 308 contribution to the bond cap would be $73,000,000. There are expected bonds that have yet to be officially submitted to the KSDE.

The Board approved minutes from the Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing, Budget Hearing, and Board Meeting, all dated September 9th.

Board Action items included the Childcare Expansion Project. This item formalizes a partnership between USD 308 and the United Way for the distribution of $103,000 from the Innovative &amp; Expansion Gap Funding Grant. The grant specifies project details that involve launching a new and/or expanded facility by September 30, 2025. These were received by the United Way through the State of Kansas for the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”), for the purpose of supporting childcare facilities to expand capacity and/or start-up new for purposes of adding additional childcare capacity for the Community.

The remaining Board action items were interagency agreements with Dillon Nature Center and Early Childhood Special Education Programs and RCEC. The DNC MOU outlines educational programming or field trips conducted in partnership with DNC and USD308 staff and facilities. Both items were approved unanimously by the Board.

The Superintendent’s Consent agenda contained four items: Treasurer’s Report, Inter-Agency Agreement&nbsp; - TLC, RCEC and McPherson County for Special Education Coop, Grant Requests, and Gifts to Schools.

The Board discussed personnel matters in an executive session, and approved the personnel report before adjourning.

The full agenda and board meeting times can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://u345601.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.AWagEuh61Tby9DP97u1iB-2Fs9pfN0ZmbqFuFMprUWcLavgJrFC0M8UatKxdeV7lcJVvxI_Wbs4kq8axC4zR23kwhgy1bAJA6O5ovpmStBKgIPhTAWbBuXyoPjD6UyRo2v5cT-2FKmgVcP-2B0xsTtu-2Bn83wi3A9LwZEih68glrYUMyFD0VFTIncove59jLy86cM2qMU7fDRteOt-2B26ZpJWKjF2YlqD7WVH0-2BJhtgpq-2FVNS7CmBfsotVGaOOr2z6KVN4lJmbpr8UcMwmqFuCZ7IY7CFD0kc6j7r5VYoGn31ZXvWID-2FXIpem9-2FhdPB8TjEvksu2tGipqzZcEt2juMnQfMonp5XVtcDHRwpq-2FSBp-2BZgFM-2FFXc8-2FI-3D" target="_blank">www.usd308.com/boe</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655147159618.jpeg" alt="USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn" />
 <figcaption>USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of Education of USD 308 will convened for a regular meeting on Monday, September 23, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at the USD 308 Administration Center, located at 1520 N. Plum, Hutchinson.The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call to establish a quorum. Key agenda items included public participation, updates from the Superintendent and curriculum reports, and decisions on the Childcare Expansion Project and various inter-agency agreements.During the Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Johnson spoke to the ongoing bond discussion. She presented 2024-2025 bond requests and spoke to the bond cap valuation process. The current year bond cap is $590,000,000. Earlier this year, the Board voted in favor of pursuing a bond up to $110,000,000. &nbsp;The USD 308 contribution to the bond cap would be $73,000,000. There are expected bonds that have yet to be officially submitted to the KSDE.The Board approved minutes from the Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing, Budget Hearing, and Board Meeting, all dated September 9th.Board Action items included the Childcare Expansion Project. This item formalizes a partnership between USD 308 and the United Way for the distribution of $103,000 from the Innovative &amp; Expansion Gap Funding Grant. The grant specifies project details that involve launching a new and/or expanded facility by September 30, 2025. These were received by the United Way through the State of Kansas for the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”), for the purpose of supporting childcare facilities to expand capacity and/or start-up new for purposes of adding additional childcare capacity for the Community.The remaining Board action items were interagency agreements with Dillon Nature Center and Early Childhood Special Education Programs and RCEC. The DNC MOU outlines educational programming or field trips conducted in partnership with DNC and USD308 staff and facilities. Both items were approved unanimously by the Board.The Superintendent’s Consent agenda contained four items: Treasurer’s Report, Inter-Agency Agreement&nbsp; - TLC, RCEC and McPherson County for Special Education Coop, Grant Requests, and Gifts to Schools.The Board discussed personnel matters in an executive session, and approved the personnel report before adjourning.The full agenda and board meeting times can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://u345601.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.AWagEuh61Tby9DP97u1iB-2Fs9pfN0ZmbqFuFMprUWcLavgJrFC0M8UatKxdeV7lcJVvxI_Wbs4kq8axC4zR23kwhgy1bAJA6O5ovpmStBKgIPhTAWbBuXyoPjD6UyRo2v5cT-2FKmgVcP-2B0xsTtu-2Bn83wi3A9LwZEih68glrYUMyFD0VFTIncove59jLy86cM2qMU7fDRteOt-2B26ZpJWKjF2YlqD7WVH0-2BJhtgpq-2FVNS7CmBfsotVGaOOr2z6KVN4lJmbpr8UcMwmqFuCZ7IY7CFD0kc6j7r5VYoGn31ZXvWID-2FXIpem9-2FhdPB8TjEvksu2tGipqzZcEt2juMnQfMonp5XVtcDHRwpq-2FSBp-2BZgFM-2FFXc8-2FI-3D" target="_blank">www.usd308.com/boe</a>

USD 308 board approves grant proposal

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a Tuesday social media post, Interfaith Housing is making a limited number of bricks available from the demolition of the old St. Elizabeth Hospital.

Bricks will be available in designated barrels outside the construction fence for the public to pick up at the former St. Elizabeth's demolition site Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 9 a.m. until the barrels are empty. 

If you are interested, go to the west side of the demolition site on N. Jackson St. between W. 20th and W 21st.

Please be respectful and take one or two for memorabilia. The remaining bricks from the demolition will be recycled and repurposed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703084884947.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a Tuesday social media post, Interfaith Housing is making a limited number of bricks available from the demolition of the old St. Elizabeth Hospital.Bricks will be available in designated barrels outside the construction fence for the public to pick up at the former St. Elizabeth's demolition site Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 9 a.m. until the barrels are empty. If you are interested, go to the west side of the demolition site on N. Jackson St. between W. 20th and W 21st.Please be respectful and take one or two for memorabilia. The remaining bricks from the demolition will be recycled and repurposed.

Bricks from St. Elizabeth demolition available

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tara Urban, a Special Education teacher at Allen STEM Magnet School, is the September Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month.

"I teach K-2 Communication and Social Skills," Urban said. "I work with students who typically have an autism diagnosis, are developmentally delayed, or are non-verbal. For the most part, they are non-verbal. Some have a little bit of oral language. Those that do have some oral language, we're working on those skills."

Urban said she uses a lot of strategies to find out what the kids are thinking.

"I try to teach a variety of methods and find adaptations for them to use," Urban said. "Some of my students, we use gestures or what we call a PECS system, which is just a picture communication board. We also have students who use AAC devices, which are augmented communication, so they have words or pictures on like an IPad, and they can tap it and it speaks for them."

Artificial intelligence tools may actually be able to help these kids communicate, once it develops further.

"I think that there's a possibility of it helping," Urban said. "In the future, being able to do an assignment, instead of, some might struggle with fine motor, so they are not able to write, so they can do speech-to-text, then."

Urban said a lot of her students are included in the regular class for much of the day and that is a good thing, because the general education students make an effort to include her students whenever they can, both in class and at recess.

Students in Urban's class received a pizza and ice cream party, thanks to Pizza Hut and Braums on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727132471314.jpeg" alt="Tara Urban is the Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month." />
 <figcaption>Tara Urban is the Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tara Urban, a Special Education teacher at Allen STEM Magnet School, is the September Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month. "I teach K-2 Communication and Social Skills," Urban said. "I work with students who typically have an autism diagnosis, are developmentally delayed, or are non-verbal. For the most part, they are non-verbal. Some have a little bit of oral language. Those that do have some oral language, we're working on those skills."Urban said she uses a lot of strategies to find out what the kids are thinking."I try to teach a variety of methods and find adaptations for them to use," Urban said. "Some of my students, we use gestures or what we call a PECS system, which is just a picture communication board. We also have students who use AAC devices, which are augmented communication, so they have words or pictures on like an IPad, and they can tap it and it speaks for them."Artificial intelligence tools may actually be able to help these kids communicate, once it develops further."I think that there's a possibility of it helping," Urban said. "In the future, being able to do an assignment, instead of, some might struggle with fine motor, so they are not able to write, so they can do speech-to-text, then."Urban said a lot of her students are included in the regular class for much of the day and that is a good thing, because the general education students make an effort to include her students whenever they can, both in class and at recess.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727132707695.jpeg" alt="Photo by Ashley Weve." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Ashley Weve.</figcaption>
 </figure>Students in Urban's class received a pizza and ice cream party, thanks to Pizza Hut and Braums on Monday.

Special ed teacher is Teacher of the Month for September

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Grace Health Day is coming up on Saturday at Grace Bible Church at 1221 East 33rd in Hutchinson. The dental portion of the day actually started several years ago, according to Dr. Grant Ringler. 

"Back in 2015 through 2019 we did, it was called Dentistry from the Heart, but due to COVID and such we stopped doing that and they actually went out of business," Ringler said. "They were a 501(c)3, but we've started a new 501(c)3 and it's called Grace Dental Day Inc. and we started up last year with our Grace Dental Day in conjunction with Grace Health Day that goes on at Grace Bible Church. We do our dental thing over at my office and then Grace Health Day is going on just right across the pasture north and east from my office is Grace Bible Church and Grace Health Day is going on at that time."

All the screenings on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. are free.&nbsp;

"We've done this in many countries around the world," said Pastor Josue Pineda with Grace Bible Church. "We were like, well, there's also need here in Kansas and especially in Reno County and in Hutchinson so we decided to start it last year. We noticed there's a lot of health professionals in different areas within our community and some alliances we've done like with Wichita Optometry and stuff like that and they're willing to give their Saturday off and come and serve the community offering besides the dentistry that Dr. Ringler mentioned, chiropractic, optometry, physical therapy, counseling, sexual health services, even haircuts."

There will be transportation for those that live on the south side of town up to the event from George Pyle Park at 118 South Poplar.

"It's at George Pyle Park, in front of the city offices," Pineda said. "We're so thankful that Central Christian School provided the bus for us for them to transport whoever is able to come every hour 8, 9, 10, 11 till till we're done to provide transportation from downtown into our building."

The goal is to serve as many people as they can. They served around 300 people in 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727101831738.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Grace Health Day is coming up on Saturday at Grace Bible Church at 1221 East 33rd in Hutchinson. The dental portion of the day actually started several years ago, according to Dr. Grant Ringler. "Back in 2015 through 2019 we did, it was called Dentistry from the Heart, but due to COVID and such we stopped doing that and they actually went out of business," Ringler said. "They were a 501(c)3, but we've started a new 501(c)3 and it's called Grace Dental Day Inc. and we started up last year with our Grace Dental Day in conjunction with Grace Health Day that goes on at Grace Bible Church. We do our dental thing over at my office and then Grace Health Day is going on just right across the pasture north and east from my office is Grace Bible Church and Grace Health Day is going on at that time."All the screenings on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. are free.&nbsp;"We've done this in many countries around the world," said Pastor Josue Pineda with Grace Bible Church. "We were like, well, there's also need here in Kansas and especially in Reno County and in Hutchinson so we decided to start it last year. We noticed there's a lot of health professionals in different areas within our community and some alliances we've done like with Wichita Optometry and stuff like that and they're willing to give their Saturday off and come and serve the community offering besides the dentistry that Dr. Ringler mentioned, chiropractic, optometry, physical therapy, counseling, sexual health services, even haircuts."There will be transportation for those that live on the south side of town up to the event from George Pyle Park at 118 South Poplar."It's at George Pyle Park, in front of the city offices," Pineda said. "We're so thankful that Central Christian School provided the bus for us for them to transport whoever is able to come every hour 8, 9, 10, 11 till till we're done to provide transportation from downtown into our building."The goal is to serve as many people as they can. They served around 300 people in 2023.

Grace Health Day is Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It's time once again to get your flu shot for this season.

"Prevention is much better than actually getting a virus," said Karen Hammersmith with the Reno County Health Department. "That's why we offer that flu shot every single year. They study what is circulating in the southern hemisphere, and then we try to work on getting the flu virus that's going to match that, and then we get that out to all the people."

The flu vaccine is going to be different this year, with three major strains down from four in previous years.

"You can get a flu shot absolutely anywhere nowadays," Hammersmith said. "Any of the pharmacies carry it, Medicine Shoppe, Walgreens, Walmart, Hutch Clinic, Prairie Star, the Reno County Health Department, we all carry flu shots. It's very, very effective and we want to get it to absolutely anybody. We offer it through those that don't have insurance and to those that do as well, but we do have some that if you are uninsured, we can get you that vaccine at a very low cost where other people can't do that when they're for profit, but we want everyone to get a flu vaccine."

If you don't have insurance and plan to get your vaccine from the health department, call ahead.

"It is very helpful because we could run out of the vaccines that we have on hand," We get a very limited number of those that are free to clients. Yes, if they could call and make an appointment, that would be the best thing."

Call (620) 694-2900 to make an appointment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696974409148.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — It's time once again to get your flu shot for this season."Prevention is much better than actually getting a virus," said Karen Hammersmith with the Reno County Health Department. "That's why we offer that flu shot every single year. They study what is circulating in the southern hemisphere, and then we try to work on getting the flu virus that's going to match that, and then we get that out to all the people."The flu vaccine is going to be different this year, with three major strains down from four in previous years."You can get a flu shot absolutely anywhere nowadays," Hammersmith said. "Any of the pharmacies carry it, Medicine Shoppe, Walgreens, Walmart, Hutch Clinic, Prairie Star, the Reno County Health Department, we all carry flu shots. It's very, very effective and we want to get it to absolutely anybody. We offer it through those that don't have insurance and to those that do as well, but we do have some that if you are uninsured, we can get you that vaccine at a very low cost where other people can't do that when they're for profit, but we want everyone to get a flu vaccine."If you don't have insurance and plan to get your vaccine from the health department, call ahead."It is very helpful because we could run out of the vaccines that we have on hand," We get a very limited number of those that are free to clients. Yes, if they could call and make an appointment, that would be the best thing."Call (620) 694-2900 to make an appointment.

Hammersmith: Time for flu shots

PRATT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8 p.m. Monday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Honda Accord driven by&nbsp;Brandon L.&nbsp;Stegman, 39, Richardson, Texas, was eastbound on U.S. 54 just west of Kansas 61 at a high rate of speed. 

The driver swerved to miss another vehicle and lost control of the car. The vehicle struck a curb, overturned and came to rest against semi legally parked and unoccupied in the Southwest Truck Parts lot.

EMS transported Stegman to a Wichita hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699222603695.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8 p.m. Monday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Honda Accord driven by&nbsp;Brandon L.&nbsp;Stegman, 39, Richardson, Texas, was eastbound on U.S. 54 just west of Kansas 61 at a high rate of speed. The driver swerved to miss another vehicle and lost control of the car. The vehicle struck a curb, overturned and came to rest against semi legally parked and unoccupied in the Southwest Truck Parts lot.EMS transported Stegman to a Wichita hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after Pratt County rollover accident

KINGMAN, Kan. — Law enforcement are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a standoff at a home in Kingman.

Just after 2 p.m. on Monday, police received a call reporting a stabbing in the 300 block of East D Avenue in Kingman, according to Police Chief David Lux.

Officers of the Kingman Police Department and Kingman County Sheriff’s Office pursued a suspect who fled to a residence in the 400 block of East B Avenue. Officers attempted to negotiate the suspect's surrender while additional resources were contacted. 

Resources and staff from the Kingman County Sheriff, Kansas Highway Patrol, Pratt County Sheriff, Edwards County Sheriff, and Kiowa County Sheriff were utilized in the incident and the suspect identified as 49-year-old Samuel Mitchell of Kingman eventually surrendered at the scene. &nbsp;

Mitchell was processed into the Kingman County jail on numerous requested felony charges, according to Lux.

Two additional suspects were arrested on requested charges of obstructing the apprehension of Mitchell. The stabbing victim was treated for his injuries.&nbsp;

KINGMAN, Kan. — Arrests were made after police say a suspect barricaded himself inside a home following a stabbing Monday in Kingman.

Kingman Police Chief David Lux told reporters that a suspect in that crime and two others inside were taken into custody early Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

Those names are not yet on the Kingman County booking log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727187448217.png" alt="SWAT on the scene of the standoff at home in Kingman-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>SWAT on the scene of the standoff at home in Kingman-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN, Kan. — Law enforcement are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a standoff at a home in Kingman.Just after 2 p.m. on Monday, police received a call reporting a stabbing in the 300 block of East D Avenue in Kingman, according to Police Chief David Lux.Officers of the Kingman Police Department and Kingman County Sheriff’s Office pursued a suspect who fled to a residence in the 400 block of East B Avenue. Officers attempted to negotiate the suspect's surrender while additional resources were contacted. Resources and staff from the Kingman County Sheriff, Kansas Highway Patrol, Pratt County Sheriff, Edwards County Sheriff, and Kiowa County Sheriff were utilized in the incident and the suspect identified as 49-year-old Samuel Mitchell of Kingman eventually surrendered at the scene. &nbsp;Mitchell was processed into the Kingman County jail on numerous requested felony charges, according to Lux.Two additional suspects were arrested on requested charges of obstructing the apprehension of Mitchell. The stabbing victim was treated for his injuries.&nbsp;----------------KINGMAN, Kan. — Arrests were made after police say a suspect barricaded himself inside a home following a stabbing Monday in Kingman.Kingman Police Chief David Lux told reporters that a suspect in that crime and two others inside were taken into custody early Tuesday morning.&nbsp;Those names are not yet on the Kingman County booking log.

3 arrested including stabbing suspect after standoff in Kingman

Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau

LINDSBORG, Kan. — Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau is a recipient of a Kansas Toursim marketing grant that will allow the CVB to place podcast ads with the largest podcast provider in America,&nbsp;<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudIfYnBVUopSppS5Ik9Lc6bNYBWXciG84_yMffqTFNhN2Nq6uC-uFb7n5kxkAcXrulT6k5syZh3zW-QPB-FBM0Bke4gyr4-LRg==&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">﻿</a><a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudIfYnBVUopSppS5Ik9Lc6bNYBWXciG84_yMffqTFNhN2Nq6uC-uFb7n5kxkAcXrulT6k5syZh3zW-QPB-FBM0Bke4gyr4-LRg==&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">I Heart Radio</a>.

<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudtuD10JYtefQK8a9ioPpIrnuzGehRL0LBrY3QppPykLJmmyIFBF7WzJrCibdjGXfJO2CHznz895E3WZux8EzPaLXXbdSVzf6A==&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">Kansas Tourism</a>, a division of the&nbsp;<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiuXqt-jBNUubK6Drsgi3kgshFzAojnbk07-6GEtQ2JmY74W7OQhy7-mIOUmq9qND-enS21Ni-o62bgYrBPwslG95aFMEmqsM-Uau4EocUeS3f&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Commerce</a>, has awarded $102,566.78 in funding for sixteen tourism-related marketing projects that will enhance and expand the advertising efforts of Kansas communities and attractions. Each of these projects are designed to attract new visitors to Kansas through new and innovative advertising and marketing campaigns. “Supporting tourist attractions and unique local events across the state just makes good business sense,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Kansas benefits greatly from the $13.2B in total economic impact that the travel and tourism industry generates annually, and the Department of Commerce will continue providing marketing assistance that helps increase that impact.”

<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudIfYnBVUopSeNcsoZM8y7QA3FBwoaXlBLEoHb82oq0jR_lWhmVVrlBWtBIZhrJQ4LksQoWYvlc89ta1HqnysjWWb4HhiyQ0cE7bp67YJ8AFMIKT0FZb9Ibgn35yj_s8JtNQDpYnOtHeNemL2CTyQluB5jXviWs0ArbnarUpuLQhZ2AVPw46LdfT-okJZlzdTw==&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">The Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau is one of sixteen grant recipients</a>&nbsp;that will invest more than $350,000 toward the approved marketing projects.

“As we award these marketing grants, we're not just investing in tourism attractions; we're fueling the vibrant stories and experiences that make our state unique,” said Kansas Tourism Director, Bridgette Jobe. “This is an exciting opportunity to help these attractions reach new audiences and showcase the diverse experiences that we have to offer. It's a win for our communities, our visitors, and the entire state’s economy.”

Grant applications were reviewed by a committee of Kansas Tourism representatives. Funding through this partnership is intended to increase travel to tourism destination sites while enhancing the state’s image. This grant leverages Kansas Tourism’s resources and extends the marketing reach of local communities.

For more information about Kansas Tourism grants, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudIfYnBVUopSgLD4jN2_B3_ciWpGM7Ebi_RqYWxbP9GFWqizluQHS42g86iZM83JQYJCLBzLILRIsGVIyt7p74Eiw2W915CgFp1miDAeG-y_SXLZqXwS_kCMcVZTNXZbWjujrQS7ildtcbWurRcfepX6nHZLp1HLL4UCh03FxiXC&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">https://www.travelks.com/travelindustry/programs-and-resources/grants/</a>&nbsp;or contact Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager, Kody Hardman at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kody.hardman@ks.gov." target="_blank">kody.hardman@ks.gov</a>.

Funding for Kansas Tourism grants, including the Tourism Marketing Grant, is provided by the Economic Development Initiatives Fund (EDIF) that is derived from state lottery proceeds.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727104298223.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Lindsborg CVB" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Lindsborg CVB</figcaption>
 </figure>Lindsborg Convention and Visitors BureauLINDSBORG, Kan. — Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau is a recipient of a Kansas Toursim marketing grant that will allow the CVB to place podcast ads with the largest podcast provider in America,&nbsp;<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudIfYnBVUopSppS5Ik9Lc6bNYBWXciG84_yMffqTFNhN2Nq6uC-uFb7n5kxkAcXrulT6k5syZh3zW-QPB-FBM0Bke4gyr4-LRg==&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">﻿</a><a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudIfYnBVUopSppS5Ik9Lc6bNYBWXciG84_yMffqTFNhN2Nq6uC-uFb7n5kxkAcXrulT6k5syZh3zW-QPB-FBM0Bke4gyr4-LRg==&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">I Heart Radio</a>.<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudtuD10JYtefQK8a9ioPpIrnuzGehRL0LBrY3QppPykLJmmyIFBF7WzJrCibdjGXfJO2CHznz895E3WZux8EzPaLXXbdSVzf6A==&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">Kansas Tourism</a>, a division of the&nbsp;<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiuXqt-jBNUubK6Drsgi3kgshFzAojnbk07-6GEtQ2JmY74W7OQhy7-mIOUmq9qND-enS21Ni-o62bgYrBPwslG95aFMEmqsM-Uau4EocUeS3f&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Commerce</a>, has awarded $102,566.78 in funding for sixteen tourism-related marketing projects that will enhance and expand the advertising efforts of Kansas communities and attractions. Each of these projects are designed to attract new visitors to Kansas through new and innovative advertising and marketing campaigns. “Supporting tourist attractions and unique local events across the state just makes good business sense,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Kansas benefits greatly from the $13.2B in total economic impact that the travel and tourism industry generates annually, and the Department of Commerce will continue providing marketing assistance that helps increase that impact.”<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudIfYnBVUopSeNcsoZM8y7QA3FBwoaXlBLEoHb82oq0jR_lWhmVVrlBWtBIZhrJQ4LksQoWYvlc89ta1HqnysjWWb4HhiyQ0cE7bp67YJ8AFMIKT0FZb9Ibgn35yj_s8JtNQDpYnOtHeNemL2CTyQluB5jXviWs0ArbnarUpuLQhZ2AVPw46LdfT-okJZlzdTw==&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">The Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau is one of sixteen grant recipients</a>&nbsp;that will invest more than $350,000 toward the approved marketing projects.“As we award these marketing grants, we're not just investing in tourism attractions; we're fueling the vibrant stories and experiences that make our state unique,” said Kansas Tourism Director, Bridgette Jobe. “This is an exciting opportunity to help these attractions reach new audiences and showcase the diverse experiences that we have to offer. It's a win for our communities, our visitors, and the entire state’s economy.”Grant applications were reviewed by a committee of Kansas Tourism representatives. Funding through this partnership is intended to increase travel to tourism destination sites while enhancing the state’s image. This grant leverages Kansas Tourism’s resources and extends the marketing reach of local communities.For more information about Kansas Tourism grants, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ywbzuldab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001KqIz_HCXq3Q2hE1DoXAn4iWMMITCRfsmPpoM3pm8xcbvlTQ20CXiudIfYnBVUopSgLD4jN2_B3_ciWpGM7Ebi_RqYWxbP9GFWqizluQHS42g86iZM83JQYJCLBzLILRIsGVIyt7p74Eiw2W915CgFp1miDAeG-y_SXLZqXwS_kCMcVZTNXZbWjujrQS7ildtcbWurRcfepX6nHZLp1HLL4UCh03FxiXC&amp;c=TNLn_AxxmwBMSu4g6wfRCOygFaOuajGNiO3YRAQOnwICn8TnLoBCpw==&amp;ch=FVCApIS5T8NLcMVFiLXnlKRfltAW1nunhsrhLE9zN3RPJhf69JWQUw==" target="_blank">https://www.travelks.com/travelindustry/programs-and-resources/grants/</a>&nbsp;or contact Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager, Kody Hardman at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kody.hardman@ks.gov." target="_blank">kody.hardman@ks.gov</a>.Funding for Kansas Tourism grants, including the Tourism Marketing Grant, is provided by the Economic Development Initiatives Fund (EDIF) that is derived from state lottery proceeds.&nbsp;

Lindsborg CVB gets tourism grant

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Abby Stockebrand, a dedicated member of the Reno County Child Care Task Force, has been named to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Systems Improvement Team, according to a Monday social media post. 

This team serves as an advisory body to the KDHE Child Care Licensing Program.

Stockebrand will now contribute her expertise to this important work, which focuses on:

Reviewing protocols within the Child Care Licensing Program to assess effectiveness and identify opportunities for greater efficiency.

Guiding public outreach efforts that clarify the purpose of child care regulations and enhance transparency in the inspection process.

Developing educational materials to inform parents, caregivers, and the public, while also supporting child care providers in creating healthy, safe, and nurturing environments for young children.

"I am truly honored to represent the Reno County Child Care Task Force on the Systems Improvement Team. This is a wonderful opportunity to bring the collective knowledge and perspectives of our local providers and stakeholders to the state level. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to help enhance child care services across Kansas and to ensure that our youngest citizens have safe, nurturing environments in which to grow,” said Stockebrand.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727169516748.jpeg" alt="Abby Stockebrand" />
 <figcaption>Abby Stockebrand</figcaption>
 </figure>Reno County Child Care Task ForceHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Abby Stockebrand, a dedicated member of the Reno County Child Care Task Force, has been named to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Systems Improvement Team, according to a Monday social media post. This team serves as an advisory body to the KDHE Child Care Licensing Program.Stockebrand will now contribute her expertise to this important work, which focuses on:Reviewing protocols within the Child Care Licensing Program to assess effectiveness and identify opportunities for greater efficiency.Guiding public outreach efforts that clarify the purpose of child care regulations and enhance transparency in the inspection process.Developing educational materials to inform parents, caregivers, and the public, while also supporting child care providers in creating healthy, safe, and nurturing environments for young children."I am truly honored to represent the Reno County Child Care Task Force on the Systems Improvement Team. This is a wonderful opportunity to bring the collective knowledge and perspectives of our local providers and stakeholders to the state level. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to help enhance child care services across Kansas and to ensure that our youngest citizens have safe, nurturing environments in which to grow,” said Stockebrand.

Stockebrand named to statewide post

STAFFORD COUNTY, Kan. — Resurfacing will start soon on U.S. 281 in Barton and Stafford counties.

This is a continuation of a Kansas Department of Transportation resurfacing project, and it involves a mill and overlay on U.S. 281 from the K-19 junction in Stafford County to Southeast 30th&nbsp;Road in Barton County. The length is about 11 miles.

The work is expected to begin around Oct. 7 and be completed around Oct. 31.

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

Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor for the project.

For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.gov/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727130578079.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>STAFFORD COUNTY, Kan. — Resurfacing will start soon on U.S. 281 in Barton and Stafford counties.This is a continuation of a Kansas Department of Transportation resurfacing project, and it involves a mill and overlay on U.S. 281 from the K-19 junction in Stafford County to Southeast 30th&nbsp;Road in Barton County. The length is about 11 miles.The work is expected to begin around Oct. 7 and be completed around Oct. 31.During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car, and motorists should be prepared to stop and expect delays of up to 15 minutes.Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor for the project.For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.gov/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.gov</a>.

U.S. 281 resurfacing to start next month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Go to the Midway at the Kansas State Fairgrounds on Saturday for the September Midway Movie Night, featuring the movie, JUMANJI - WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE!

Food &amp; Beverages available at Charlie's Wine &amp; Beer Garden

Sponsored by: Bell Credit Union, Dillon Credit Union, HGE Credit Union, Hutchinson Postal &amp; Community Credit Union and Morton Credit Union&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727112175604.jpeg" alt="Midway Movie Night September 2024" />
 <figcaption>Midway Movie Night September 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State FairHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Go to the Midway at the Kansas State Fairgrounds on Saturday for the September Midway Movie Night, featuring the movie, JUMANJI - WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE!FREE ADMISSIONFood &amp; Beverages available at Charlie's Wine &amp; Beer GardenDJ 620 In The Mix will start at 8 p.m.Movie Starts at 7 p.m.Sponsored by: Bell Credit Union, Dillon Credit Union, HGE Credit Union, Hutchinson Postal &amp; Community Credit Union and Morton Credit Union&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jumanji at Fairgrounds Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Polo Bar and Grill is closing. In a message on social media Monday, ownership announced the closure.

"With much love and appreciation we'd like to formally announce the closing of the Polo," Jason Spencer said. "We have made many great memories and friends throughout the years but feel as if it is time to move on to bigger and better things. We have the best clientele in town and have truly enjoyed our time here over the years and wish everyone of our customers nothing but the best!"

"I encourage all of you to go check out the new Steakhouse just 8 min north on Monroe upstairs at the Crazy Horse golf course. Marcos Meathaus will be featuring some of the best views in all of Hutch with live music, 30 plus tvs, a truly remarkable kitchen and of course the best tasting food and service available. Open to the public and ready for business  starting Monday, Sept 30th at 2 p.m., with dinner being served from 4 to 9 p.m. Monday thru Saturday. Sundays open at 9 a.m. for breakfast with a Bloody Mary bar, unlimited mimosas and of course amazing food with dinner starting at 2! It's been a blast and look forward to seeing all of you in the near future! Here's to new beginnings!"&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727168917179.jpeg" alt="Polo Bar and Grill" />
 <figcaption>Polo Bar and Grill</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Polo Bar and Grill is closing. In a message on social media Monday, ownership announced the closure."With much love and appreciation we'd like to formally announce the closing of the Polo," Jason Spencer said. "We have made many great memories and friends throughout the years but feel as if it is time to move on to bigger and better things. We have the best clientele in town and have truly enjoyed our time here over the years and wish everyone of our customers nothing but the best!"They did offer patrons an alternative."I encourage all of you to go check out the new Steakhouse just 8 min north on Monroe upstairs at the Crazy Horse golf course. Marcos Meathaus will be featuring some of the best views in all of Hutch with live music, 30 plus tvs, a truly remarkable kitchen and of course the best tasting food and service available. Open to the public and ready for business starting Monday, Sept 30th at 2 p.m., with dinner being served from 4 to 9 p.m. Monday thru Saturday. Sundays open at 9 a.m. for breakfast with a Bloody Mary bar, unlimited mimosas and of course amazing food with dinner starting at 2! It's been a blast and look forward to seeing all of you in the near future! Here's to new beginnings!"&nbsp;&nbsp;

Polo Bar and Grill closing

Corn harvest is ramping up across Kansas and while every field will be different, reports from across the state range from better than expected to a great crop. Prices, however, are just ugly. As the calendar marches toward October, soybean harvest and wheat planting will make already crowded schedules even busier.

In Finney County, Kyle Deaver had started shelling dryland corn. Irrigated fields are still ripening but soybeans are getting close to being harvest ready. Rain showers were a welcome benefit last week that will help with wheat planting.

Deaver believes the corn crop in his area will have a solid, average year, but it’s “a lower price than I’d like to see,” he says. Corn prices have been trending down since topping $8 a bushel in 2022, and they’ve fallen about 60 cents a bushel since the beginning of the year. It’s now hovering just above $4 as harvest rolls though Kansas.

On the eastern side of the state, Ottawa Coop’s Waverly location manager Mike Beying said a rain would still help soybeans in the field and he’d welcome a slowdown in corn harvest to free up some more storage.

“Space is tight,” he says. “When the corn is coming, it’s coming fast.”

Beying says his location has received corn from four counties so far, and some of those loads were around 250 bushels per acre, significantly above the usual target of 130 to 140 bushels per acre for the area.

“We’ll be above that average in a lot of places,” Beying says. “It just depends on where the rain happened to fall.”

The rain didn’t fall on the fields of Marion County farmer Nick Peters. He reported there was no measurable rain in his area from July 3 to Aug. 13. For the second straight year, a lack of moisture meant the corn died early and Peters finished up harvest earlier than usual.

“If there had been any type of moisture then it could have really made a difference,” he says. “It was better than last year. It wasn’t our best crop, but it was better than we thought it was going to be. Considering all the factors, we’re happy.”

Peters says he’s staying busy with spraying and waiting for soybeans to dry down for harvest. He’s hopeful for some moisture to help with wheat drilling and to give a boost to his double crop beans.

“Prices are a little rough right now,” Peters says. “Overall, we definitely could be worse off. We’ll survive and advance.”

The eternal optimism of farmers never ceases to amaze me. A better than expected harvest after six weeks of no rain isn’t easy to deal with. And the excitement from a bumper crop is still dampened by low prices. It’s a testament to the faith growers have in the weather, markets and their own ability to look beyond today’s results and believe tomorrow’s will be better. Whether corn harvest is just starting or already wrapped up, one thing’s for certain. There’s always next year.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687183475033.png" alt="Greg Doering" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering</figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauCorn harvest is ramping up across Kansas and while every field will be different, reports from across the state range from better than expected to a great crop. Prices, however, are just ugly. As the calendar marches toward October, soybean harvest and wheat planting will make already crowded schedules even busier.In Finney County, Kyle Deaver had started shelling dryland corn. Irrigated fields are still ripening but soybeans are getting close to being harvest ready. Rain showers were a welcome benefit last week that will help with wheat planting.Deaver believes the corn crop in his area will have a solid, average year, but it’s “a lower price than I’d like to see,” he says. Corn prices have been trending down since topping $8 a bushel in 2022, and they’ve fallen about 60 cents a bushel since the beginning of the year. It’s now hovering just above $4 as harvest rolls though Kansas.On the eastern side of the state, Ottawa Coop’s Waverly location manager Mike Beying said a rain would still help soybeans in the field and he’d welcome a slowdown in corn harvest to free up some more storage.“Space is tight,” he says. “When the corn is coming, it’s coming fast.”Beying says his location has received corn from four counties so far, and some of those loads were around 250 bushels per acre, significantly above the usual target of 130 to 140 bushels per acre for the area.“We’ll be above that average in a lot of places,” Beying says. “It just depends on where the rain happened to fall.”The rain didn’t fall on the fields of Marion County farmer Nick Peters. He reported there was no measurable rain in his area from July 3 to Aug. 13. For the second straight year, a lack of moisture meant the corn died early and Peters finished up harvest earlier than usual.“If there had been any type of moisture then it could have really made a difference,” he says. “It was better than last year. It wasn’t our best crop, but it was better than we thought it was going to be. Considering all the factors, we’re happy.”Peters says he’s staying busy with spraying and waiting for soybeans to dry down for harvest. He’s hopeful for some moisture to help with wheat drilling and to give a boost to his double crop beans.“Prices are a little rough right now,” Peters says. “Overall, we definitely could be worse off. We’ll survive and advance.”The eternal optimism of farmers never ceases to amaze me. A better than expected harvest after six weeks of no rain isn’t easy to deal with. And the excitement from a bumper crop is still dampened by low prices. It’s a testament to the faith growers have in the weather, markets and their own ability to look beyond today’s results and believe tomorrow’s will be better. Whether corn harvest is just starting or already wrapped up, one thing’s for certain. There’s always next year."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2024 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Faith and harvest

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

9/24/2024 2:33 AM-Gabriela Geurian-DUI; BAC .08 or more shown by Competent Evidence; 1st Offense&nbsp;

9/23/2024 4:15 PM-Elisha	LeAnn Kinast-Direct Contempt

9/23/2024 1:23 PM-Ethan	Patrick Jacobs-Failure to Appear; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision&nbsp;

9/23/2024 8:29 AM-Jasmine	Odessa Bryant-DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+; Possess, Consume, Purchase Alcoholic Liquor/CMB by 18-20 YOA; 1st Conviction; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;9/24/2024 2:33 AM-Gabriela Geurian-DUI; BAC .08 or more shown by Competent Evidence; 1st Offense&nbsp;9/23/2024 4:15 PM-Elisha	LeAnn Kinast-Direct Contempt9/23/2024 1:23 PM-Ethan	Patrick Jacobs-Failure to Appear; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision&nbsp;9/23/2024 8:29 AM-Jasmine	Odessa Bryant-DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+; Possess, Consume, Purchase Alcoholic Liquor/CMB by 18-20 YOA; 1st Conviction; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

MCPHERSON, Kan. — Beginning Tuesday, September 24th, the intersection at Main Street (BUS. HWY 81) and Euclid Street in McPherson is scheduled to be closed.

The closure is necessary for the continuation of the Elm Street Drainage Project (Euclid Extension) with work being performed by Vogts-Parga Construction, LLC. 

The closure will last an undetermined amount of time with no official marked detour. The previously closed intersection of Euclid and Ash Streets will be open prior to the closure at Main. Questions or concerns can be directed to the City of McPherson Public Works Department at 620-245-2545 Monday through Friday during regular business hours.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727130978085.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of McPhersonMCPHERSON, Kan. — Beginning Tuesday, September 24th, the intersection at Main Street (BUS. HWY 81) and Euclid Street in McPherson is scheduled to be closed.The closure is necessary for the continuation of the Elm Street Drainage Project (Euclid Extension) with work being performed by Vogts-Parga Construction, LLC. The closure will last an undetermined amount of time with no official marked detour. The previously closed intersection of Euclid and Ash Streets will be open prior to the closure at Main. Questions or concerns can be directed to the City of McPherson Public Works Department at 620-245-2545 Monday through Friday during regular business hours.&nbsp;

Euclid and Main in McPherson closed starting Tuesday

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 held two ribbon cuttings for its new child care facilities on Monday morning.&nbsp;

The first was held at Buhler Beginnings Daycare, located inside of Buhler Grade School, while the second was held at the Crusader Corner Daycare at 509 East 56th in Hutchinson.

"I wanted to look at daycare back in 2015-16 and it's finally coming to fruition with some grants," Buhler USD 313 superintendent Cindy Couchman said. "This was not done in isolation, this is a huge partnership with a lot of people."

Couchman praised the people behind the scenes that made the daycare facilities possible.

"We have our board of education members here that have been so supportive of the expansion. We have Simpson (Construction) and Landmark (Architects) here that have been amazing partners to work with through all three of our projects, both the Ad Astra (Academy) and our two daycares."

The process to get things off the ground was a pretty simple one.

"We found out about the Child Care Accelerator grant last March and we wanted to join, so we put a proposal in," Kyle McClure, the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment PK-5th Grade said. "We found out Reno County had a whole group working on a grant together, so as Cindy mentioned, it's bigger than just us. We're super excited to be a part of&nbsp; the solution for child care in Reno County. Reno County is actually on the forefront of the solution. We hope to partner even further with some other organizations to find some efficiencies, fiscally and in HR wise."

The two daycares will provide several families with child care moving forward.

"We'll have about 85 slots," McClure said. "The county in total is adding about 300 across all of those projects, so about 30 here and about 55 over at Crusader Corner. It is really an innovative thing that Reno County is doing in child care. I had my own children and it was just a stresser trying to find daycare."

Cherish Kelley will coordinate and oversee the two daycares. Both locations are nearly completely staffed and are seeing some children as part of a soft opening.

"We're very close to being fully staffed," Kelley said. "We have about 12 all together in all of the rooms between the two locations."

Couchman says the school district will continue to add more kids as the weeks go on.

"I think it was very advisable," Couchman said. "When you're not ready for that much, that was a lot to figure out procedures and policies."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727110447750.jpeg" alt="Buhler USD 313 held a ribbon cutting for its new child care facility on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. The school district held two ribbon cuttings, one at the location inside Buhler Grade School and another at the new location at the Crusader Corner Daycare in Hutchinson. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Buhler USD 313 held a ribbon cutting for its new child care facility on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. The school district held two ribbon cuttings, one at the location inside Buhler Grade School and another at the new location at the Crusader Corner Daycare in Hutchinson. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostBUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 held two ribbon cuttings for its new child care facilities on Monday morning.&nbsp;The first was held at Buhler Beginnings Daycare, located inside of Buhler Grade School, while the second was held at the Crusader Corner Daycare at 509 East 56th in Hutchinson."I wanted to look at daycare back in 2015-16 and it's finally coming to fruition with some grants," Buhler USD 313 superintendent Cindy Couchman said. "This was not done in isolation, this is a huge partnership with a lot of people."Couchman praised the people behind the scenes that made the daycare facilities possible."We have our board of education members here that have been so supportive of the expansion. We have Simpson (Construction) and Landmark (Architects) here that have been amazing partners to work with through all three of our projects, both the Ad Astra (Academy) and our two daycares."The process to get things off the ground was a pretty simple one."We found out about the Child Care Accelerator grant last March and we wanted to join, so we put a proposal in," Kyle McClure, the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment PK-5th Grade said. "We found out Reno County had a whole group working on a grant together, so as Cindy mentioned, it's bigger than just us. We're super excited to be a part of&nbsp; the solution for child care in Reno County. Reno County is actually on the forefront of the solution. We hope to partner even further with some other organizations to find some efficiencies, fiscally and in HR wise."The two daycares will provide several families with child care moving forward."We'll have about 85 slots," McClure said. "The county in total is adding about 300 across all of those projects, so about 30 here and about 55 over at Crusader Corner. It is really an innovative thing that Reno County is doing in child care. I had my own children and it was just a stresser trying to find daycare."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727110490317.jpeg" alt="Buhler USD 313 held a ribbon cutting for its new child care facility on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. The school district held two ribbon cuttings, one at the location inside Buhler Grade School and another at the new location at the Crusader Corner Daycare in Hutchinson. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Buhler USD 313 held a ribbon cutting for its new child care facility on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. The school district held two ribbon cuttings, one at the location inside Buhler Grade School and another at the new location at the Crusader Corner Daycare in Hutchinson. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cherish Kelley will coordinate and oversee the two daycares. Both locations are nearly completely staffed and are seeing some children as part of a soft opening."We're very close to being fully staffed," Kelley said. "We have about 12 all together in all of the rooms between the two locations."Couchman says the school district will continue to add more kids as the weeks go on."I think it was very advisable," Couchman said. "When you're not ready for that much, that was a lot to figure out procedures and policies."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727110472013.jpeg" alt="Buhler USD 313 held a ribbon cutting for its new child care facility on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. The school district held two ribbon cuttings, one at the location inside Buhler Grade School and another at the new location at the Crusader Corner Daycare in Hutchinson. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Buhler USD 313 held a ribbon cutting for its new child care facility on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. The school district held two ribbon cuttings, one at the location inside Buhler Grade School and another at the new location at the Crusader Corner Daycare in Hutchinson. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>