MOLLY M. CARVER Bethany College

LINDSBORG, Kan. — The Bethany College Board of Directors announces the official launch of a nationwide search for the 16th president of Bethany College. This critical leadership role presents an exciting opportunity for an accomplished individual to shape the future of one of Kansas' leading liberal arts institutions.

Bethany College, founded in 1881, is deeply rooted in its commitment to the liberal arts and its affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Known for its vibrant music, arts, and athletics programs, Bethany continues to be a beacon of academic excellence, serving a diverse and engaged student body.

Located in the heart of the charming town of Lindsborg, Kansas—often referred to as "Little Sweden"—Bethany College benefits from the town's rich Swedish cultural heritage, thriving artistic community, and warm, welcoming spirit. This unique blend of history and tradition, coupled with the college's mission to inspire and equip students, makes Bethany an attractive destination for potential presidential candidates with a vision for higher education.

"We are excited to begin this search for Bethany's next president," said Dr. Rob Habiger '69, Chair of the Presidential Search Committee and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors. "Bethany College is an institution with a storied history and a bright future. We are seeking a leader who is not only committed to academic and institutional excellence but also to nurturing the values that have made Bethany a cornerstone of the Lindsborg community for more than 140 years."

The Presidential Search Committee comprises representatives from the Bethany College Board of Directors, faculty, staff, alumni, and the greater Lindsborg community. The committee will follow the principles of transparency, confidentiality, and collaboration to ensure a thorough and thoughtful process. The goal is to identify a leader who will continue to enhance the college's reputation for academic rigor, cultural enrichment, and community engagement.

Potential candidates and individuals wishing to nominate others for consideration are encouraged to visit the college's Presidential Search webpage at <a href="http://bethanylb.edu/presidential-search">bethanylb.edu/presidential-search</a> for further information on the position and the application process.

Bethany College invites all qualified candidates to apply or to share the opportunity with individuals who may be well-suited for the role. The committee plans to name the new president by April 2025.

For confidential inquiries or questions, please get in touch with Dr. Rob Habiger, Search Committee Chair, at <a href="mailto:searchcommittee@bethanylb.edu">searchcommittee@bethanylb.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700231018488.png" alt="Bethany College Logo" />
 <figcaption>Bethany College Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>MOLLY M. CARVER Bethany CollegeLINDSBORG, Kan. — The Bethany College Board of Directors announces the official launch of a nationwide search for the 16th president of Bethany College. This critical leadership role presents an exciting opportunity for an accomplished individual to shape the future of one of Kansas' leading liberal arts institutions.Bethany College, founded in 1881, is deeply rooted in its commitment to the liberal arts and its affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Known for its vibrant music, arts, and athletics programs, Bethany continues to be a beacon of academic excellence, serving a diverse and engaged student body.Located in the heart of the charming town of Lindsborg, Kansas—often referred to as "Little Sweden"—Bethany College benefits from the town's rich Swedish cultural heritage, thriving artistic community, and warm, welcoming spirit. This unique blend of history and tradition, coupled with the college's mission to inspire and equip students, makes Bethany an attractive destination for potential presidential candidates with a vision for higher education."We are excited to begin this search for Bethany's next president," said Dr. Rob Habiger '69, Chair of the Presidential Search Committee and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors. "Bethany College is an institution with a storied history and a bright future. We are seeking a leader who is not only committed to academic and institutional excellence but also to nurturing the values that have made Bethany a cornerstone of the Lindsborg community for more than 140 years."The Presidential Search Committee comprises representatives from the Bethany College Board of Directors, faculty, staff, alumni, and the greater Lindsborg community. The committee will follow the principles of transparency, confidentiality, and collaboration to ensure a thorough and thoughtful process. The goal is to identify a leader who will continue to enhance the college's reputation for academic rigor, cultural enrichment, and community engagement.Potential candidates and individuals wishing to nominate others for consideration are encouraged to visit the college's Presidential Search webpage at <a href="http://bethanylb.edu/presidential-search">bethanylb.edu/presidential-search</a> for further information on the position and the application process.Bethany College invites all qualified candidates to apply or to share the opportunity with individuals who may be well-suited for the role. The committee plans to name the new president by April 2025.For confidential inquiries or questions, please get in touch with Dr. Rob Habiger, Search Committee Chair, at <a href="mailto:searchcommittee@bethanylb.edu">searchcommittee@bethanylb.edu</a>.

National search underway for Bethany College President

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;

9/19/2024 3:14 AM-Karyee	Ann Opat-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct&nbsp;

9/19/2024 3:09 AM-Christina	Marie Curley-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct&nbsp;

9/18/2024 9:50 PM-Keeon	Patrick Roberts-Failure to Appear

9/18/2024 8:25 PM-Aaron	Rayleigh Smith-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body&nbsp;

9/18/2024 7:00 PM-John	Lee Sizemore-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)&nbsp;

9/18/2024 6:35 PM-Alejandro	Leon Foster-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

9/18/2024 5:02 PM-Audra	Lynn Sisler-Failure to Appear

9/18/2024 4:58 PM-Jonathan	Wayne Beer-Operate a MV w/o a valid license

9/18/2024 4:00 PM-Tristan	J Delaney-Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm&nbsp;

9/18/2024 3:35 PM-Matthew	Lee Rollman-Failure to Appear

9/18/2024 3:11 PM-Landon	Arthur Nusser-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

9/18/2024 10:58 AM-Samuel	Travis Hallman-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

9/18/2024 9:17 AM-Trenton	James Bland-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; $1,000 to $24,999

<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;9/19/2024 3:14 AM-Karyee	Ann Opat-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct&nbsp;9/19/2024 3:09 AM-Christina	Marie Curley-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct&nbsp;9/18/2024 9:50 PM-Keeon	Patrick Roberts-Failure to Appear9/18/2024 8:25 PM-Aaron	Rayleigh Smith-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body&nbsp;9/18/2024 7:00 PM-John	Lee Sizemore-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)&nbsp;9/18/2024 6:35 PM-Alejandro	Leon Foster-Failure to Appear&nbsp;9/18/2024 5:02 PM-Audra	Lynn Sisler-Failure to Appear9/18/2024 4:58 PM-Jonathan	Wayne Beer-Operate a MV w/o a valid license9/18/2024 4:00 PM-Tristan	J Delaney-Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm&nbsp;9/18/2024 3:35 PM-Matthew	Lee Rollman-Failure to Appear9/18/2024 3:11 PM-Landon	Arthur Nusser-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant9/18/2024 10:58 AM-Samuel	Travis Hallman-Failure to Appear&nbsp;9/18/2024 9:17 AM-Trenton	James Bland-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; $1,000 to $24,999

Daily Bookings

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The federal government urged a U.S. District Court judge on Tuesday to temporarily block a proposed merger&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-grocery-merger-ftc-9fdb26cc044ee21a7a486c03caae6a5d">between Kroger and Albertsons</a>, saying the combination would “almost certainly” benefit shareholders but not everyday shoppers.

Lawyers for the Federal Trade Commission gave their closing arguments at the end of a three-week hearing in Portland, Oregon. The FTC wants U.S. District Judge Adrienne Nelson to issue a preliminary injunction that would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-ftc-antitrust-3ba6eba066636626c4bdc6cd4f73fa29">block the deal</a>&nbsp;while its complaint goes before an in-house administrative law judge.

Kroger and Albertsons proposed what would be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9">largest supermarket merger</a>&nbsp;in U.S. history in 2022. The companies insist that the $24.6 billion deal would allow them to lower prices and more effectively compete with retail giants like Walmart and Amazon.

But the FTC says the deal would eliminate competition and lead to higher food prices for already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-consumers-price-gouging-spending-economy-999e81e2f869a0151e2ee6bbb63370af">struggling customers.</a>&nbsp;Susan Musser, the Federal Trade Commission’s chief trial counsel, argued Tuesday that Kroger and Albertsons primarily compete with each other and not places like Amazon or Costco, where consumers do other kinds of shopping.

“It’s this local competition, in these local communities, that this merger will eliminate,” Musser said.

In their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/albertsons-kroger-merger-hearing-f134271ada4f0b8e347e53a626404083">hearing testimony</a>&nbsp;this month, the CEOs of Albertsons and Kroger said the merged company would lower prices in a bid to retain customers. They also argued that the merger would boost growth, bolstering stores and union jobs.

FTC attorneys have noted that the two supermarket chains&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-washington-lawsuit-4977ceda820d84bee60b967e4bb339ec">currently compete</a>&nbsp;in 22 states, closely matching each other on price, quality, private label products and services like store pickup. Shoppers benefit from that competition and would lose those benefits if the merger is allowed to proceed, they said.

The FTC and labor union leaders also argued that workers’ wages and benefits would decline if Kroger and Albertsons no longer compete with each other. They also expressed concern that potential store closures could create so-called food and pharmacy “deserts” for consumers.

Under the deal, Kroger and Albertsons would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-grocery-9a1d40ba06f752d3c5c3d5db78fede4c">sell 579 stores</a>&nbsp;in places where their locations overlap to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-wholesale-grocer-401520f2a25ea2ae5fd06be4973b7c48">C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers</a>, a New Hampshire-based supplier to independent supermarkets that also owns the Grand Union and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b50f18e7e7dc4701823b2d4346a8bd28">Piggly Wiggly</a>&nbsp;store brands.

The FTC says C&amp;S is ill-prepared to take on those stores. Earlier in the hearing, Laura Hall, the FTC’s senior trial counsel, cited internal documents that indicated C&amp;S executives were skeptical about the quality of the stores they would get and may want the option to sell or close them.

But C&amp;S CEO Eric Winn testified that he thinks his company can be successful in the venture.

The attorneys general of Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Wyoming all joined the FTC’s lawsuit on the commission’s side. Washington and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-colorado-06a59a420139ef8f4400b128778d408d">Colorado filed</a>&nbsp;separate cases in state courts seeking to block the merger.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-washington-lawsuit-4977ceda820d84bee60b967e4bb339ec">Washington’s case opened</a>&nbsp;in Seattle on Monday.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in 35 states, including brands like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralphs-supermarkets-california-job-applicants-46a287ac76515ffbbd196202c4ee3c38">Ralphs</a>, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724718577355.png" alt="File photo from an August press conference courtesy United Food and commercial workers union local 3000" />
 <figcaption>File photo from an August press conference courtesy United Food and commercial workers union local 3000</figcaption>
 </figure>PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The federal government urged a U.S. District Court judge on Tuesday to temporarily block a proposed merger&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-grocery-merger-ftc-9fdb26cc044ee21a7a486c03caae6a5d">between Kroger and Albertsons</a>, saying the combination would “almost certainly” benefit shareholders but not everyday shoppers.Lawyers for the Federal Trade Commission gave their closing arguments at the end of a three-week hearing in Portland, Oregon. The FTC wants U.S. District Judge Adrienne Nelson to issue a preliminary injunction that would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-ftc-antitrust-3ba6eba066636626c4bdc6cd4f73fa29">block the deal</a>&nbsp;while its complaint goes before an in-house administrative law judge.Kroger and Albertsons proposed what would be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9">largest supermarket merger</a>&nbsp;in U.S. history in 2022. The companies insist that the $24.6 billion deal would allow them to lower prices and more effectively compete with retail giants like Walmart and Amazon.But the FTC says the deal would eliminate competition and lead to higher food prices for already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-consumers-price-gouging-spending-economy-999e81e2f869a0151e2ee6bbb63370af">struggling customers.</a>&nbsp;Susan Musser, the Federal Trade Commission’s chief trial counsel, argued Tuesday that Kroger and Albertsons primarily compete with each other and not places like Amazon or Costco, where consumers do other kinds of shopping.“It’s this local competition, in these local communities, that this merger will eliminate,” Musser said.In their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/albertsons-kroger-merger-hearing-f134271ada4f0b8e347e53a626404083">hearing testimony</a>&nbsp;this month, the CEOs of Albertsons and Kroger said the merged company would lower prices in a bid to retain customers. They also argued that the merger would boost growth, bolstering stores and union jobs.FTC attorneys have noted that the two supermarket chains&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-washington-lawsuit-4977ceda820d84bee60b967e4bb339ec">currently compete</a>&nbsp;in 22 states, closely matching each other on price, quality, private label products and services like store pickup. Shoppers benefit from that competition and would lose those benefits if the merger is allowed to proceed, they said.The FTC and labor union leaders also argued that workers’ wages and benefits would decline if Kroger and Albertsons no longer compete with each other. They also expressed concern that potential store closures could create so-called food and pharmacy “deserts” for consumers.Under the deal, Kroger and Albertsons would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-grocery-9a1d40ba06f752d3c5c3d5db78fede4c">sell 579 stores</a>&nbsp;in places where their locations overlap to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-wholesale-grocer-401520f2a25ea2ae5fd06be4973b7c48">C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers</a>, a New Hampshire-based supplier to independent supermarkets that also owns the Grand Union and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b50f18e7e7dc4701823b2d4346a8bd28">Piggly Wiggly</a>&nbsp;store brands.The FTC says C&amp;S is ill-prepared to take on those stores. Earlier in the hearing, Laura Hall, the FTC’s senior trial counsel, cited internal documents that indicated C&amp;S executives were skeptical about the quality of the stores they would get and may want the option to sell or close them.But C&amp;S CEO Eric Winn testified that he thinks his company can be successful in the venture.The attorneys general of Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Wyoming all joined the FTC’s lawsuit on the commission’s side. Washington and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-colorado-06a59a420139ef8f4400b128778d408d">Colorado filed</a>&nbsp;separate cases in state courts seeking to block the merger.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-washington-lawsuit-4977ceda820d84bee60b967e4bb339ec">Washington’s case opened</a>&nbsp;in Seattle on Monday.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in 35 states, including brands like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralphs-supermarkets-california-job-applicants-46a287ac76515ffbbd196202c4ee3c38">Ralphs</a>, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.

Kroger and Albertsons make final federal court argument for their merger

The Newton Police Department said on Wednesday evening that they have confirmed the possible school threat was a social media post from out of the state, and did not involve schools in Newton, Kan.&nbsp;

The department says there is no direct threat towards USD 373.

NEWTON, Kan. — Parents may have noticed some additional police presence at Newton schools this morning. 

Since early this morning, we have been investigating a possible threat of violence posted to social media over the weekend. We were alerted to the post late last night, and officers were posted at every school today as a precaution for students' safety. 

We now believe this threat may have originated in a different state. We continue to interview students, and the investigation is ongoing, but the threat is unsubstantiated at this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689180265343.jpeg" alt="Newton Police Badge" />
 <figcaption>Newton Police Badge</figcaption>
 </figure>The Newton Police Department said on Wednesday evening that they have confirmed the possible school threat was a social media post from out of the state, and did not involve schools in Newton, Kan.&nbsp;The department says there is no direct threat towards USD 373.---Newton Police DepartmentNEWTON, Kan. — Parents may have noticed some additional police presence at Newton schools this morning. Since early this morning, we have been investigating a possible threat of violence posted to social media over the weekend. We were alerted to the post late last night, and officers were posted at every school today as a precaution for students' safety. We now believe this threat may have originated in a different state. We continue to interview students, and the investigation is ongoing, but the threat is unsubstantiated at this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Newton police gives all clear for 'unsubstantiated threat'

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair announced Wednesday that this year's event attracted 328,714 attendees over ten days, highlighting its continued success in celebrating Kansas culture, agriculture, and entertainment. The number of gate scans was slightly below the 2023 total of 330,044. 

The first Saturday saw an impressive turnout of more than 51,000 visitors, the highest in six years, followed by over 56,000 on the second Saturday. This solid attendance reflects the fair’s enduring appeal, bringing in visitors from across Kansas and beyond to enjoy the diverse activities, exhibits, and food. 

"I think the vibe at the Fair was phenomenal," said General Manager Bryan Schulz. "The weather was amazing. People seemed very happy. There really wasn't any major issues on the grounds. Overall, I think everything went fantastic."

This year’s Nex-Tech Grandstand concert series also saw its highest attendance since 2015, featuring acts including Wynonna Judd, Goo Goo Dolls, Casting Crowns, Riley Green, and The Oak Ridge Boys. The Demo Derby set a new attendance record with 2,947 fans. The Riley Green concert alone brought around 8,000 to the Grandstand.

The 2024 fair offered a wide array of attractions, including the 25th anniversary of the Grand Drive Junior Livestock Show, live free stage music, midway rides, and a variety of food and commercial vendors. Guests explored Kansas' history through agricultural displays and educational exhibits. 

Looking ahead, the Kansas State Fair is excited to continue this tradition in 2025 and want to thank everyone who made this year’s event a success. The 2025 Kansas State Fair will run from September 5–14. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725972052496.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Fair Midway-Photo by Pat James" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Fair Midway-Photo by Pat James</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State FairHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair announced Wednesday that this year's event attracted 328,714 attendees over ten days, highlighting its continued success in celebrating Kansas culture, agriculture, and entertainment. The number of gate scans was slightly below the 2023 total of 330,044. The first Saturday saw an impressive turnout of more than 51,000 visitors, the highest in six years, followed by over 56,000 on the second Saturday. This solid attendance reflects the fair’s enduring appeal, bringing in visitors from across Kansas and beyond to enjoy the diverse activities, exhibits, and food. "I think the vibe at the Fair was phenomenal," said General Manager Bryan Schulz. "The weather was amazing. People seemed very happy. There really wasn't any major issues on the grounds. Overall, I think everything went fantastic."This year’s Nex-Tech Grandstand concert series also saw its highest attendance since 2015, featuring acts including Wynonna Judd, Goo Goo Dolls, Casting Crowns, Riley Green, and The Oak Ridge Boys. The Demo Derby set a new attendance record with 2,947 fans. The Riley Green concert alone brought around 8,000 to the Grandstand.The 2024 fair offered a wide array of attractions, including the 25th anniversary of the Grand Drive Junior Livestock Show, live free stage music, midway rides, and a variety of food and commercial vendors. Guests explored Kansas' history through agricultural displays and educational exhibits. Looking ahead, the Kansas State Fair is excited to continue this tradition in 2025 and want to thank everyone who made this year’s event a success. The 2025 Kansas State Fair will run from September 5–14.

State Fair attendance strong in 2024

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The four members present of the Hutchinson City Council heard once again from Joshua Joseph at their meeting on Tuesday. They remained unconvinced that his plan to turn the former rooms of the Atrium into storage and the convention center into retail would actually fly, so they made no changes to the current timeline.

"If he has a bond to tear the building down, then he can tear it down," said Mayor Greg Fast. "If he does not, then we tear it down."

Joseph argued that he could not get an insurer to authorize a $2 million bond. He thought he could get $1 million, but that didn't satisfy the council, because they don't believe he'll follow through. He also talked a lot about redevelopment, but not much about mitigation of the current hazards.

"What about those conditions?" asked City Attorney Paul Brown. "Our ordinance says the resolution shall fix a reasonable time, within which the repair or removal of such structure shall be commenced and shall require a cash bond sufficient to cover the cost of removal. That's where we're at currently. Have these things been addressed, if there's additional time given, it requires a cash bond."

The meeting where the final decision will be made is on October 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719935400666.jpeg" alt="A hazmat team with the Hutchinson Fire Department, along with City Manager Enrico Villegas and Mayor Greg Fast, inspected the Atrium Hotel property in June. Image Courtesy City of Hutchinson" />
 <figcaption>A hazmat team with the Hutchinson Fire Department, along with City Manager Enrico Villegas and Mayor Greg Fast, inspected the Atrium Hotel property in June. Image Courtesy City of Hutchinson</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The four members present of the Hutchinson City Council heard once again from Joshua Joseph at their meeting on Tuesday. They remained unconvinced that his plan to turn the former rooms of the Atrium into storage and the convention center into retail would actually fly, so they made no changes to the current timeline."If he has a bond to tear the building down, then he can tear it down," said Mayor Greg Fast. "If he does not, then we tear it down."Joseph argued that he could not get an insurer to authorize a $2 million bond. He thought he could get $1 million, but that didn't satisfy the council, because they don't believe he'll follow through. He also talked a lot about redevelopment, but not much about mitigation of the current hazards."What about those conditions?" asked City Attorney Paul Brown. "Our ordinance says the resolution shall fix a reasonable time, within which the repair or removal of such structure shall be commenced and shall require a cash bond sufficient to cover the cost of removal. That's where we're at currently. Have these things been addressed, if there's additional time given, it requires a cash bond."The meeting where the final decision will be made is on October 1.

Hutch City Council continues forward with Atrium demo timeline

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Special Education Department at Hutchinson USD 308 is looking forward to an event next month at the Hutchinson YMCA.

"We're doing a partnership with them and RCEC on October 5th," said Jessica Engelland with USD 308. "We're going to do a swim night and it'll open it up to families of students with disabilities to come and see what the Y is all about and just give them a night out."

Having relationships is hard for families with special needs kids.

"That's why we're really excited about our work with the CDDO," Engelland said. "From 2013 to last year, we only had 13 families connected with the CDDO. And since we started this parent night with the CDDO last year, we have had 18 additional families start in the last year. And so that's a great jumping off point for them to have supports and be connected."

The Reno County Community Developmental Disability Organization is the application process to getting supports post-secondary for special needs kids as they transition to adulthood.&nbsp;

"It's just about educating and supporting families," Engelland said. "Meeting them where they're at and working through that process with them."

For more information on the YMCA event, call Engelland at (620) 615-5502.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717377637145.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Special Education Department at Hutchinson USD 308 is looking forward to an event next month at the Hutchinson YMCA."We're doing a partnership with them and RCEC on October 5th," said Jessica Engelland with USD 308. "We're going to do a swim night and it'll open it up to families of students with disabilities to come and see what the Y is all about and just give them a night out."Having relationships is hard for families with special needs kids."That's why we're really excited about our work with the CDDO," Engelland said. "From 2013 to last year, we only had 13 families connected with the CDDO. And since we started this parent night with the CDDO last year, we have had 18 additional families start in the last year. And so that's a great jumping off point for them to have supports and be connected."The Reno County Community Developmental Disability Organization is the application process to getting supports post-secondary for special needs kids as they transition to adulthood.&nbsp;"It's just about educating and supporting families," Engelland said. "Meeting them where they're at and working through that process with them."For more information on the YMCA event, call Engelland at (620) 615-5502.

Special event coming up for special needs kids

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Steve Ford, the youngest son of former President Gerald Ford, is the latest to speak as part of the Dillon Lecture Series on Tuesday at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

Ford talked about several different topics at his press conference before the lecture itself, including what it was like spending two-plus years in the White House, his acting career, life as a rancher, and dealing with alcoholism.&nbsp;

The 18-year-old at the time, who had just graduated from high school and was getting ready to head to college, was now the son of the President of the United States after Richard Nixon resigned from office in August 1974.&nbsp;

"My dad was a congressman for most of my childhood," Ford said. "It wasn't until he became Vice President that things changed. All of a sudden, it got elevated to a new level in 1973. He was only Vice President for about 10 months; we didn't have secret service during that period. It wasn't until he became President in August of 1974 that we got secret service, and then it changed. Luckily, my 10 secret service guys were all in their late 20s, so they kind of remembered what it was like being an 18-year-old kid."&nbsp;

Ford said life changed, and he became a little more defensive once his dad took over as President.

"This would be something I didn't think was a good thing, but you almost had to do it," Ford said. "Because all of a sudden now you had all these people wanting something from you that you didn't know, so you had people approaching you. Thank God we were old enough that we had established friendships, so we weren't looking to go out and add a whole bunch of new friends. Overall, to be blessed in that way, to be able to live in the nation's home, the White House, that was just a real joy and a real treat. It's pretty government housing. It's temporary because we were only there for two-and-a-half years. To live in the White House, to be there; everything on the wall is historical from Jefferson, Washington, and Lincoln; you're living in a museum basically."

Although Ford didn't get to spend a lot of time in the White House while his dad was in office, he did have one favorite spot.

"The third floor of the White House is where the kids live, the second floor is where mom and dad lived, and then the first floor is where the Red Room, the Green Room, the East Room, all the diplomatic areas. I think the favorite place for me was up on the third floor; they have an area called the Solarium; it's kind of a sunroom; it was probably the most relaxed."

He then went on to talk about one of the fun memories he had with a friend in the White House.

"I probably shouldn't tell this story," Ford said while laughing. "One of the first nights we moved to the White House, remember I'm an 18-year-old kid, I called one of my best friends, his name was Kevin, and told him he had to come see this place. He comes over, we're up on the third floor, and back in 1974, stereo equipment was huge. We decided it'd be a good idea to take my stereo up to the roof of the White House. You couldn't do that today because of terrorism. We get it up there, and if I remember right, we were playing Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven.' It was like Dumb and Dumber on the roof of the White House."

Ford was asked how the son of the President of the United States ended up becoming a rancher.

"I was trying to figure out how I was going to move into the freshman dorm at Duke University with 10 secret service guys with machine guns and radios, and it didn't really have a good feel to it. I walked into dad's office, which was the Oval Office, and said I'm just not ready to go to college yet; I'd like to take a year off. He asked me, 'What are you thinking of doing?' and I told him I had always dreamed about going out west and becoming a cowboy. He was kind of shocked, but mom and dad were great parents because they allowed us kids to kind of go find our hearts. I promised I'd go back to school next year."

Ford ended up falling in love with living on a ranch and becoming a cowboy in the western United States.

"I took my 10 secret service agents, and we headed west to Utah and Montana," Ford said. "I started working on ranches, cowboying, and rodeoing and fell in love with it. That was what I studied in college: animal science, production, nutrition, and beef cattle. I thought I was going to run a ranch, and instead I spent 30-plus years working as an actor."

The acting career kind of happened by accident for Ford.

"I was going to school, and I was rodeoing at the time, and a friend of mine was producing a movie down in Mexico," Ford said. "It was a western, and he needed some people that could fall off horses to do some stunts. It was summer time, so I wasn't taking any classes, and he said he'd pay me to come down and to fall off a horse, so I ended up going to Mexico and spending the summer working. That was a little bit about my introduction into the TV and film business, so yeah, a horse got me my first acting job."

Ford appeared in 16 different movies while also appearing in 23 different TV shows.&nbsp;

Like his mother, former First Lady Betty, Steve also battled alcoholism in his younger life.

"I was in my 30s when I raised my hand and said, 'My name is Steve, and I'm an alcoholic'," Ford said. "The foundation for that was probably first laid back when I was in high school. My disease doesn't care who you are; whether you're an ex-President's son or an actor, it doesn't care. I speak in a lot of halfway houses; I go into prisons and colleges and just try to give back. You would think Betty Ford's son should know better, because my mother 10 years before me raised her hand. That was a life-changing thing for the addiction community, because she somewhat took some of the shame off of this disease."

The last thing Ford touched on in his press conference was how the United States is today, and whether or not the country will get back to its ways of the past.

"I am still optimistic," Ford said. "The pendulum does seem to swing both ways, and you get through these periods, but I'm concerned. I'm concerned people don't reach across the aisle and try to find a compromise and keep things moving in a reasonable fashion. At times I'm concerned about the honesty of our politicians today. They'll say anything to get a vote and that's both sides, Republicans or Democrats. They say things they know they can never get through Congress. They're campaigning for a vote, but not to actually fix the problem. My dad loved being a public servant, and it has to be in your blood."

The next Dillon Lecture Series presenter is Kansas State men's basketball coach Jerome Tang. He will speak Oct. 8.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726586756289.jpeg" alt="Steve Ford, the son of former President Gerald Ford, spoke at Hutchinson Community College on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, as part of the Dillon Lecture Series. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Steve Ford, the son of former President Gerald Ford, spoke at Hutchinson Community College on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, as part of the Dillon Lecture Series. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Steve Ford, the youngest son of former President Gerald Ford, is the latest to speak as part of the Dillon Lecture Series on Tuesday at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.Ford talked about several different topics at his press conference before the lecture itself, including what it was like spending two-plus years in the White House, his acting career, life as a rancher, and dealing with alcoholism.&nbsp;The 18-year-old at the time, who had just graduated from high school and was getting ready to head to college, was now the son of the President of the United States after Richard Nixon resigned from office in August 1974.&nbsp;"My dad was a congressman for most of my childhood," Ford said. "It wasn't until he became Vice President that things changed. All of a sudden, it got elevated to a new level in 1973. He was only Vice President for about 10 months; we didn't have secret service during that period. It wasn't until he became President in August of 1974 that we got secret service, and then it changed. Luckily, my 10 secret service guys were all in their late 20s, so they kind of remembered what it was like being an 18-year-old kid."&nbsp;Ford said life changed, and he became a little more defensive once his dad took over as President."This would be something I didn't think was a good thing, but you almost had to do it," Ford said. "Because all of a sudden now you had all these people wanting something from you that you didn't know, so you had people approaching you. Thank God we were old enough that we had established friendships, so we weren't looking to go out and add a whole bunch of new friends. Overall, to be blessed in that way, to be able to live in the nation's home, the White House, that was just a real joy and a real treat. It's pretty government housing. It's temporary because we were only there for two-and-a-half years. To live in the White House, to be there; everything on the wall is historical from Jefferson, Washington, and Lincoln; you're living in a museum basically."Although Ford didn't get to spend a lot of time in the White House while his dad was in office, he did have one favorite spot."The third floor of the White House is where the kids live, the second floor is where mom and dad lived, and then the first floor is where the Red Room, the Green Room, the East Room, all the diplomatic areas. I think the favorite place for me was up on the third floor; they have an area called the Solarium; it's kind of a sunroom; it was probably the most relaxed."He then went on to talk about one of the fun memories he had with a friend in the White House."I probably shouldn't tell this story," Ford said while laughing. "One of the first nights we moved to the White House, remember I'm an 18-year-old kid, I called one of my best friends, his name was Kevin, and told him he had to come see this place. He comes over, we're up on the third floor, and back in 1974, stereo equipment was huge. We decided it'd be a good idea to take my stereo up to the roof of the White House. You couldn't do that today because of terrorism. We get it up there, and if I remember right, we were playing Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven.' It was like Dumb and Dumber on the roof of the White House."Ford was asked how the son of the President of the United States ended up becoming a rancher."I was trying to figure out how I was going to move into the freshman dorm at Duke University with 10 secret service guys with machine guns and radios, and it didn't really have a good feel to it. I walked into dad's office, which was the Oval Office, and said I'm just not ready to go to college yet; I'd like to take a year off. He asked me, 'What are you thinking of doing?' and I told him I had always dreamed about going out west and becoming a cowboy. He was kind of shocked, but mom and dad were great parents because they allowed us kids to kind of go find our hearts. I promised I'd go back to school next year."Ford ended up falling in love with living on a ranch and becoming a cowboy in the western United States."I took my 10 secret service agents, and we headed west to Utah and Montana," Ford said. "I started working on ranches, cowboying, and rodeoing and fell in love with it. That was what I studied in college: animal science, production, nutrition, and beef cattle. I thought I was going to run a ranch, and instead I spent 30-plus years working as an actor."The acting career kind of happened by accident for Ford."I was going to school, and I was rodeoing at the time, and a friend of mine was producing a movie down in Mexico," Ford said. "It was a western, and he needed some people that could fall off horses to do some stunts. It was summer time, so I wasn't taking any classes, and he said he'd pay me to come down and to fall off a horse, so I ended up going to Mexico and spending the summer working. That was a little bit about my introduction into the TV and film business, so yeah, a horse got me my first acting job."Ford appeared in 16 different movies while also appearing in 23 different TV shows.&nbsp;Like his mother, former First Lady Betty, Steve also battled alcoholism in his younger life."I was in my 30s when I raised my hand and said, 'My name is Steve, and I'm an alcoholic'," Ford said. "The foundation for that was probably first laid back when I was in high school. My disease doesn't care who you are; whether you're an ex-President's son or an actor, it doesn't care. I speak in a lot of halfway houses; I go into prisons and colleges and just try to give back. You would think Betty Ford's son should know better, because my mother 10 years before me raised her hand. That was a life-changing thing for the addiction community, because she somewhat took some of the shame off of this disease."The last thing Ford touched on in his press conference was how the United States is today, and whether or not the country will get back to its ways of the past."I am still optimistic," Ford said. "The pendulum does seem to swing both ways, and you get through these periods, but I'm concerned. I'm concerned people don't reach across the aisle and try to find a compromise and keep things moving in a reasonable fashion. At times I'm concerned about the honesty of our politicians today. They'll say anything to get a vote and that's both sides, Republicans or Democrats. They say things they know they can never get through Congress. They're campaigning for a vote, but not to actually fix the problem. My dad loved being a public servant, and it has to be in your blood."The next Dillon Lecture Series presenter is Kansas State men's basketball coach Jerome Tang. He will speak Oct. 8.

Steve Ford delivers powerful message as part of Dillon Lecture Series

NEWTON, Kan. — A new survey from Choose Newton Main Street aims to measure how people experience Newton’s downtown and what they’d like to see in the future.

All Newton residents, visitors and business owners are encouraged to take the 10-minute survey at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fchoose-newton.com%2Fsurvey/1/0100019201a230b2-386bbb56-181e-4e51-9772-d53c0fb68831-000000/OYEGDdVkOJxbeBLje0TB_wGk90YxdDwGj2VY0kn0n1o=371" target="_blank">choose-newton.com/survey</a>. Respondents who provide their email address will be entered to win one of four $50 downtown gift cards.

The survey is in preparation for a visit from Kansas Main Street and Main Street America staff in October to help create the local 2025 Transformation Strategy, a&nbsp;plan to revitalize or strengthen the&nbsp;downtown district’s economy.

“The goal is to get community engagement and input for our downtown so that we can set priorities that our community truly sees as the priorities,” said Jen Lehman, the City’s convention &amp; visitors bureau coordinator. “We are hoping to get as many responses as possible.”

The results of the survey will be shared anonymously with the Newton Main Street Board, Kansas Main Street, and Main Street America to assess current needs and set goals for future development.

Newton has been a member of the Kansas Main Street program since 2022. The program offers training, technical assistance, and access to networking and grant opportunities for downtown revitalization.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676121604581.jpeg" alt="Choose Newton Logo" />
 <figcaption>Choose Newton Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — A new survey from Choose Newton Main Street aims to measure how people experience Newton’s downtown and what they’d like to see in the future.All Newton residents, visitors and business owners are encouraged to take the 10-minute survey at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fchoose-newton.com%2Fsurvey/1/0100019201a230b2-386bbb56-181e-4e51-9772-d53c0fb68831-000000/OYEGDdVkOJxbeBLje0TB_wGk90YxdDwGj2VY0kn0n1o=371" target="_blank">choose-newton.com/survey</a>. Respondents who provide their email address will be entered to win one of four $50 downtown gift cards.The survey is in preparation for a visit from Kansas Main Street and Main Street America staff in October to help create the local 2025 Transformation Strategy, a&nbsp;plan to revitalize or strengthen the&nbsp;downtown district’s economy.“The goal is to get community engagement and input for our downtown so that we can set priorities that our community truly sees as the priorities,” said Jen Lehman, the City’s convention &amp; visitors bureau coordinator. “We are hoping to get as many responses as possible.”The results of the survey will be shared anonymously with the Newton Main Street Board, Kansas Main Street, and Main Street America to assess current needs and set goals for future development.Newton has been a member of the Kansas Main Street program since 2022. The program offers training, technical assistance, and access to networking and grant opportunities for downtown revitalization.

Newton with new downtown survey

EMMIE BOESE Pretty Prairie USD 311

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Pretty Prairie USD 311 celebrated the start of construction for its new middle school gym in a unique way.

Instead of hosting a groundbreaking ceremony, K-12 students, staff and school board members each had the opportunity to sign one of the beams that was hoisted into the air and placed in the new structure on Monday, Sept. 16.

Students and staff took part in signing the 9,800-pound beam with black sharpie on Tuesday, Sept. 10, next to New Jerusalem Church.

"It is so exciting to see each stage of this process happening," Superintendent Ashley Anderson said. "The beam with all the signatures is securely in place; it is great that our students and staff are part of this moment in history!"

The new gym is a part of the district's current bond issue that was approved by the school board in May of 2023. It was approved for just under 8 million dollars.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726611067715.jpeg" alt="Beam Raising photo provided by Emmie Boese, taken by High School FFA Sponsor Jon Mead." />
 <figcaption>Beam Raising photo provided by Emmie Boese, taken by High School FFA Sponsor Jon Mead.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE Pretty Prairie USD 311PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Pretty Prairie USD 311 celebrated the start of construction for its new middle school gym in a unique way.Instead of hosting a groundbreaking ceremony, K-12 students, staff and school board members each had the opportunity to sign one of the beams that was hoisted into the air and placed in the new structure on Monday, Sept. 16.Students and staff took part in signing the 9,800-pound beam with black sharpie on Tuesday, Sept. 10, next to New Jerusalem Church."It is so exciting to see each stage of this process happening," Superintendent Ashley Anderson said. "The beam with all the signatures is securely in place; it is great that our students and staff are part of this moment in history!"The new gym is a part of the district's current bond issue that was approved by the school board in May of 2023. It was approved for just under 8 million dollars.

Beam raised for Pretty Prairie gym project

Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — On Tuesday, Oct. 15 at 5:30 p.m. at Stringer Fine Arts Center, 600 East 11th Ave the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a candidate forum for Kansas State Legislature and Reno County Commission candidates that will be appearing on the November ballot. The forum will be held only for races that are contested.

Invited to participate are Kansas Senate District 34 candidates Shanna Henry and Michael Murphy, Kansas Representative District 102 candidates Jason Probst and Kyler Sweely, and Kansas Representative District 104 candidates Lynnette Krieger-Zook and Paul Waggoner. Reno County Commission District candidates invited to participate are District 3 candidates Garth Strand and Ron Vincent and District 4 candidates Lindsey Hatfield and Richard Winger.

Debra Teufel, President and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber will act as the moderator.

Candidates will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements. During the question-and-answer period, candidates will be given a limited time to answer to keep the forum moving. No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening; however, the public is invited to submit questions in advance to the Hutch Chamber office.

Questions may be submitted to Debra Teufel at debrat@hutchchamber.com by Noon on Monday, October 7th.

There is no cost to attend. Members of the Chamber business community, as well as the general public, are encouraged to attend.

For more information concerning these events, contact Debra Teufel at <a href="mailto:debrat@hutchchamber.com">debrat@hutchchamber.com</a> or 620.662.3391.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657586869660.jpeg" alt="Reno County Candidate Forum-July 11 2022-Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Candidate Forum-July 11 2022-Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of CommerceHUTCHINSON, Kan. — On Tuesday, Oct. 15 at 5:30 p.m. at Stringer Fine Arts Center, 600 East 11th Ave the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a candidate forum for Kansas State Legislature and Reno County Commission candidates that will be appearing on the November ballot. The forum will be held only for races that are contested.Invited to participate are Kansas Senate District 34 candidates Shanna Henry and Michael Murphy, Kansas Representative District 102 candidates Jason Probst and Kyler Sweely, and Kansas Representative District 104 candidates Lynnette Krieger-Zook and Paul Waggoner. Reno County Commission District candidates invited to participate are District 3 candidates Garth Strand and Ron Vincent and District 4 candidates Lindsey Hatfield and Richard Winger.Debra Teufel, President and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber will act as the moderator.Candidates will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements. During the question-and-answer period, candidates will be given a limited time to answer to keep the forum moving. No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening; however, the public is invited to submit questions in advance to the Hutch Chamber office.Questions may be submitted to Debra Teufel at debrat@hutchchamber.com by Noon on Monday, October 7th.There is no cost to attend. Members of the Chamber business community, as well as the general public, are encouraged to attend.For more information concerning these events, contact Debra Teufel at <a href="mailto:debrat@hutchchamber.com">debrat@hutchchamber.com</a> or 620.662.3391.

Chamber to hold candidate forum next month

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;

9/18/2024 1:38 AM-Brandi	Lynn Harrington-Viol protection order; Abuse ordet; Probation Violation

9/17/2024 9:18 PM-Christopher	Tomas Sainz-Possess, Consume, Purchase Alcoholic Liquor/CMB by 18-20 YOA; 1st Conviction&nbsp;

9/17/2024 9:10 PM-Ryan	Lovell Fry-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Criminal Damage to Property; To injure or defraud; &lt; $1,000

9/17/2024 4:51 PM-Sabin	Micheal Schroeder-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

9/17/2024 3:06 PM-Matthew	James Castleberry-Direct Contempt

9/17/2024 1:39 PM-Alexsa	Ann Armstrong-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

9/17/2024 1:18 PM-Jessie	Antonio Villa-Failure to Appear

9/17/2024 10:37 AM-Kolton	Michael Ralph-Probation Violation&nbsp;

9/17/2024 9:06 AM-Lacey	Elizabeth Mollhagen-Battery; AGGRAVATED, Reckless Great Bodily Harm or Disfigurement

9/17/2024 4:07 AM-Esequiel	Jesus Galindo-DUI; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving; DL Violation; No Drivers License; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage; Probation Violation

<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;9/18/2024 1:38 AM-Brandi	Lynn Harrington-Viol protection order; Abuse ordet; Probation Violation9/17/2024 9:18 PM-Christopher	Tomas Sainz-Possess, Consume, Purchase Alcoholic Liquor/CMB by 18-20 YOA; 1st Conviction&nbsp;9/17/2024 9:10 PM-Ryan	Lovell Fry-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Criminal Damage to Property; To injure or defraud; &lt; $1,0009/17/2024 4:51 PM-Sabin	Micheal Schroeder-Failure to Appear&nbsp;9/17/2024 3:06 PM-Matthew	James Castleberry-Direct Contempt9/17/2024 1:39 PM-Alexsa	Ann Armstrong-Failure to Appear&nbsp;9/17/2024 1:18 PM-Jessie	Antonio Villa-Failure to Appear9/17/2024 10:37 AM-Kolton	Michael Ralph-Probation Violation&nbsp;9/17/2024 9:06 AM-Lacey	Elizabeth Mollhagen-Battery; AGGRAVATED, Reckless Great Bodily Harm or Disfigurement9/17/2024 4:07 AM-Esequiel	Jesus Galindo-DUI; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving; DL Violation; No Drivers License; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage; Probation Violation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council officially established a STAR Bond District at their meeting on Tuesday.

The STAR Bond District is along 11th and 17th and along Main, to encompass the Cosmosphere, the new Hilton Garden Inn area and the area surrounding the Landmark Building for the purposes of projects at the Cosmosphere, the Landmark and Memorial Hall.

STAR Bond Approval Process: The approval process for STAR Bonds involves several steps and Tuesday night's action was just step one.

"I just want to say thank you," Laura Meyer-Dick said to the council Tuesday. "This project of the Downtown Master Plan started about four years ago and the partners have been great. Debra from the Chamber could not be here tonight, but she's been instrumental, so has the community foundation and everybody else that kind of brainstormed this idea with me after Dad passed away. I'm super excited for the things it's going to do. I've had a lifelong love of the Cosmosphere and I think it's really exciting that it's going to attract more people here, and it's going to provide more STEM education to the children from states surrounding. Your city staff has been amazing, all of them."

The tax rates in those areas will not go up from what was already planned. The STAR Bonds will be paid back through the additional visitors to those areas. Meyer-Dick also gave a thumbnail sketch of the plan for the Landmark's bottom floor.

"It will have four different commercial spaces," Meyer-Dick said. "Hopefully, we will get a restaurant in the front space to showcase on Main Street, and then two retail spaces just to the west of the lobby. Then, my husband's dream is to put a speakeasy in the back, if we can make it work and find somebody to run it for us."

The next step is the full-blown feasibility study from the state to make sure that the revenue increases project to pay the bonds back.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726620108839.jpeg" alt="Laura Meyer-Dick" />
 <figcaption>Laura Meyer-Dick</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council officially established a STAR Bond District at their meeting on Tuesday.The STAR Bond District is along 11th and 17th and along Main, to encompass the Cosmosphere, the new Hilton Garden Inn area and the area surrounding the Landmark Building for the purposes of projects at the Cosmosphere, the Landmark and Memorial Hall.STAR Bond Approval Process: The approval process for STAR Bonds involves several steps and Tuesday night's action was just step one.<ol>
 <li>Approval of the STAR Bond District: The city will establish a designated area where the STAR Bonds will be used.</li><li>Approval of the STAR Bond Project Plan: Detailed plans for each project within the district will be reviewed and approved.</li><li>Issuance of Bonds: Once approved, the bonds will be issued to fund the projects.</li>
 </ol>"I just want to say thank you," Laura Meyer-Dick said to the council Tuesday. "This project of the Downtown Master Plan started about four years ago and the partners have been great. Debra from the Chamber could not be here tonight, but she's been instrumental, so has the community foundation and everybody else that kind of brainstormed this idea with me after Dad passed away. I'm super excited for the things it's going to do. I've had a lifelong love of the Cosmosphere and I think it's really exciting that it's going to attract more people here, and it's going to provide more STEM education to the children from states surrounding. Your city staff has been amazing, all of them."The tax rates in those areas will not go up from what was already planned. The STAR Bonds will be paid back through the additional visitors to those areas. Meyer-Dick also gave a thumbnail sketch of the plan for the Landmark's bottom floor."It will have four different commercial spaces," Meyer-Dick said. "Hopefully, we will get a restaurant in the front space to showcase on Main Street, and then two retail spaces just to the west of the lobby. Then, my husband's dream is to put a speakeasy in the back, if we can make it work and find somebody to run it for us."The next step is the full-blown feasibility study from the state to make sure that the revenue increases project to pay the bonds back.

City Council approves STAR Bond District

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a Tuesday afternoon message from Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson Police and HutchCC will be doing an exercise Wednesday morning, and there will be a police presence on campus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCCHUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a Tuesday afternoon message from Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson Police and HutchCC will be doing an exercise Wednesday morning, and there will be a police presence on campus.

Hutch PD on HutchCC campus Wednesday

PRATT COUNTY –Authorities are investigating a fatal fire in Pratt.

Just before 8:30 a.m. Monday, fire crews responded to a duplex fire at 601 N. Oak Street in Pratt, according to a media release. 

The Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) Investigation Division was called to assist in the investigations of the fire.

Investigators determined the fire originated and contained to the kitchen with smoke damage throughout. The structure is a duplex with the other half suffering light smoke damage. The occupants of the other side of the duplex were able to escape safely without injury.

The victim is identified as Marjorie Meis, 67, the sole occupant. A pet dog also perished in the fire. The fire is still under investigation pending autopsy results.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712266518422.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT COUNTY –Authorities are investigating a fatal fire in Pratt.Just before 8:30 a.m. Monday, fire crews responded to a duplex fire at 601 N. Oak Street in Pratt, according to a media release. The Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) Investigation Division was called to assist in the investigations of the fire.Investigators determined the fire originated and contained to the kitchen with smoke damage throughout. The structure is a duplex with the other half suffering light smoke damage. The occupants of the other side of the duplex were able to escape safely without injury.The victim is identified as Marjorie Meis, 67, the sole occupant. A pet dog also perished in the fire. The fire is still under investigation pending autopsy results.

Woman, her pet dog killed in duplex fire in Pratt

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — HFD Brush 71 left Tuesday morning before 7 a.m. for a wildland fire deployment to the Pearl Fire, northwest of Fort Collins, Colorado. 

 This fire is currently at 300 acres with 0% containment. 

Due to most wildland fire crews being deployed further West toward California, resources are in a critical need.  

Firefighter Manuel, Engine Boss Inghram and Firefighter Lesser are being deployed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726590911947.jpeg" alt="Brush 71-Courtesy Hutchinson Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Brush 71-Courtesy Hutchinson Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — HFD Brush 71 left Tuesday morning before 7 a.m. for a wildland fire deployment to the Pearl Fire, northwest of Fort Collins, Colorado. This fire is currently at 300 acres with 0% containment. Due to most wildland fire crews being deployed further West toward California, resources are in a critical need. Firefighter Manuel, Engine Boss Inghram and Firefighter Lesser are being deployed.

Brush 71 headed to Colorado

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson City Manager Enrico Villegas told Hutch Post that the sidewalk program proposal on the City Council agenda for Tuesday is quite a change.

"To boil it down, the proposed policy consideration here is that the city will just fund outright the removal and replacement of sidewalks," Villegas said. "No money has to be put forth by the by the adjoining property owner, if the sidewalk needs to be replaced or rehabbed in some form or fashion. But that's just the tip of the iceberg here. Embedded with and how we plan to utilize this program will be to overlay it with our street maintenance program."

The idea is to be efficient when tearing areas up anyway.

"Wherever our street maintenance program goes, our sidewalk improvement program will go with that," Villegas said. "As we touch the street, we'll also touch the sidewalks. We'll improve curb and gutter, and to continue to build upon this, we would also rehabilitate any of our stormwater as well, really trying to beautify the area in one shot. Potentially, too, we'll include tree pruning or anything like that.&nbsp;I'm very excited about this. This is a way to really beautify neighborhoods through the lens of infrastructure."

The Hutchinson City Council meets at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726497334126.jpeg" alt="Sidewalk photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>Sidewalk photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson City Manager Enrico Villegas told Hutch Post that the sidewalk program proposal on the City Council agenda for Tuesday is quite a change."To boil it down, the proposed policy consideration here is that the city will just fund outright the removal and replacement of sidewalks," Villegas said. "No money has to be put forth by the by the adjoining property owner, if the sidewalk needs to be replaced or rehabbed in some form or fashion. But that's just the tip of the iceberg here. Embedded with and how we plan to utilize this program will be to overlay it with our street maintenance program."The idea is to be efficient when tearing areas up anyway."Wherever our street maintenance program goes, our sidewalk improvement program will go with that," Villegas said. "As we touch the street, we'll also touch the sidewalks. We'll improve curb and gutter, and to continue to build upon this, we would also rehabilitate any of our stormwater as well, really trying to beautify the area in one shot. Potentially, too, we'll include tree pruning or anything like that.&nbsp;I'm very excited about this. This is a way to really beautify neighborhoods through the lens of infrastructure."The Hutchinson City Council meets at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

New sidewalk program on council agenda

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 4th Annual Southwest Bricktown Fiesta, presented by Midwest Superstore and IdeaTek is Saturday in Hutchinson.

"The event will start at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday at Southwest Bricktown Park on West First Avenue," said Adam Stewart with Hutch Rec. "It will start off with some DJ music from 620 In The Mix, and then we get something that we've been trying to do for the fiesta for a couple of years now, we're bringing in a troupe of folk dancers from Wichita around 5:30. After that, a little bit more from 620 In The Mix, and then we get to our two big live bands for the night before finishing up at 11:00 p.m.

Those live bands are well known in the area.

"The opening band will be the Josue Estrada Band out of Wichita, Kansas," said Adam Pina with the festival. "Phenomenal group, They're coming off a huge, huge summer. Actually, during the month of May, they were touring all across the US. They just recently played Elsewhere Festival in Wichita, which was a huge event as well. Then we're going to be closing the night off with a more traditional band with Grupo Deferencia out of Great Bend."

"One of the big things that has been a part of it from the very first year of the Fiesta was the importance of bringing out food trucks and food stands," Stewart said. "Cindy Flores, one of the neighborhood residents, has always done a great job with lining those up for us."

Find out more information on the Fiesta at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SWBricktownNeighborhood">the SW Bricktown Neighborhood Facebook page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726500460708.jpeg" alt="SW Bricktown Fiesta 2024" />
 <figcaption>SW Bricktown Fiesta 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 4th Annual Southwest Bricktown Fiesta, presented by Midwest Superstore and IdeaTek is Saturday in Hutchinson."The event will start at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday at Southwest Bricktown Park on West First Avenue," said Adam Stewart with Hutch Rec. "It will start off with some DJ music from 620 In The Mix, and then we get something that we've been trying to do for the fiesta for a couple of years now, we're bringing in a troupe of folk dancers from Wichita around 5:30. After that, a little bit more from 620 In The Mix, and then we get to our two big live bands for the night before finishing up at 11:00 p.m.Those live bands are well known in the area."The opening band will be the Josue Estrada Band out of Wichita, Kansas," said Adam Pina with the festival. "Phenomenal group, They're coming off a huge, huge summer. Actually, during the month of May, they were touring all across the US. They just recently played Elsewhere Festival in Wichita, which was a huge event as well. Then we're going to be closing the night off with a more traditional band with Grupo Deferencia out of Great Bend."There will also be great food available."One of the big things that has been a part of it from the very first year of the Fiesta was the importance of bringing out food trucks and food stands," Stewart said. "Cindy Flores, one of the neighborhood residents, has always done a great job with lining those up for us."Find out more information on the Fiesta at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SWBricktownNeighborhood">the SW Bricktown Neighborhood Facebook page</a>.

Fiesta is Saturday in Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Come to the Hutchinson Art Center on Saturday, September 21 for make-and-take art classes for kids. 

This is an opportunity for children aged 6 through 12 to create their own work of art! Students will be divided into two groups: Group A (1:00 - 2:30 p.m.) and Group B (3:00 - 4:30 p.m.), with each group covering different skills. Each group art class costs $8 per child.

September's theme is "Adventures in Map-Making"!

Students will learn how to fuse information together with creativity to make their own unique maps that portray imagined locations and characters, while practicing their line and contour drawing skills, visual storytelling skills, and Japanese art of Momigami.

Group A and B will both be creating maps that depict an epic adventure. 

Children will view a variety of maps and learn about geographical features like waterfalls, mountains, and prairies. They will use this information and their imaginations to design a map that tells of an imagined place and characters they met along the journey using pens, sharpies, and colored pencils. 

Children will practice line or contour drawing skills, imaginative story telling, and the art of Momigami (kneading paper to make it feel like cloth).

Parents and guardians are encouraged to sign up their child for either Group A or Group B depending on skill level and interest. In general, the Group A project is simpler and aimed toward children aged 6-7, while the Group B project is a bit more complex and is aimed toward children aged 8-12.

Learn more about these classes and register your child by visiting <a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/monthly-childrens-art-projects">the Art Center website</a>.

Registration is limited to 15 students/group per month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724667846239.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Hutchinson Art Center" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Hutchinson Art Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Art CenterHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Come to the Hutchinson Art Center on Saturday, September 21 for make-and-take art classes for kids. This is an opportunity for children aged 6 through 12 to create their own work of art! Students will be divided into two groups: Group A (1:00 - 2:30 p.m.) and Group B (3:00 - 4:30 p.m.), with each group covering different skills. Each group art class costs $8 per child.September's theme is "Adventures in Map-Making"!Students will learn how to fuse information together with creativity to make their own unique maps that portray imagined locations and characters, while practicing their line and contour drawing skills, visual storytelling skills, and Japanese art of Momigami.Group A and B will both be creating maps that depict an epic adventure. Children will view a variety of maps and learn about geographical features like waterfalls, mountains, and prairies. They will use this information and their imaginations to design a map that tells of an imagined place and characters they met along the journey using pens, sharpies, and colored pencils. Children will practice line or contour drawing skills, imaginative story telling, and the art of Momigami (kneading paper to make it feel like cloth).Parents and guardians are encouraged to sign up their child for either Group A or Group B depending on skill level and interest. In general, the Group A project is simpler and aimed toward children aged 6-7, while the Group B project is a bit more complex and is aimed toward children aged 8-12.Learn more about these classes and register your child by visiting <a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/monthly-childrens-art-projects">the Art Center website</a>.Registration is limited to 15 students/group per month.

Monthly kids art classes back in September

NEWTON, Kan. — As temperatures start to fall, this is a great time to plant trees. 

Fall tree coupons are now available. The coupons are good for 50% off the cost of a tree, up to $75. 

Newton residents can pick up the coupons at City Hall at the third-floor reception desk, while supplies last.

A list of recommended trees from the Kansas Forest Service is <a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/community_forestry/community_docs/SC%20Pref%20Trees-2019%20updated.pdf">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726523918076.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy City of Newton" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy City of Newton</figcaption>
 </figure>City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — As temperatures start to fall, this is a great time to plant trees. Fall tree coupons are now available. The coupons are good for 50% off the cost of a tree, up to $75. Newton residents can pick up the coupons at City Hall at the third-floor reception desk, while supplies last.A list of recommended trees from the Kansas Forest Service is <a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/community_forestry/community_docs/SC%20Pref%20Trees-2019%20updated.pdf">here</a>.

Newton encouraging tree planting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday will consider a charter ordinance designating the city's website as its official newspaper. Currently, that paper is the Hutchinson News.

"This is something that legal staff has been researching," said Hutchinson City Manager Enrico Villegas. "A lot of cities are starting to do this as just unfortunately, and this is a nationwide trend, that local journalism, there's been a downward trend in that. Not all things can be published on the official city website, if we stick with land as an example, if the city were to propose vacating undeveloped alleys, that we can publish that on the city's website. But if the city were to purchase land, that would have to go to an official newsletter or newspaper. So there are certain things that we can and can't do."

The Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday will consider a charter ordinance designating the city's website as its official newspaper. Currently, that paper is the Hutchinson News."This is something that legal staff has been researching," said Hutchinson City Manager Enrico Villegas. "A lot of cities are starting to do this as just unfortunately, and this is a nationwide trend, that local journalism, there's been a downward trend in that. Not all things can be published on the official city website, if we stick with land as an example, if the city were to propose vacating undeveloped alleys, that we can publish that on the city's website. But if the city were to purchase land, that would have to go to an official newsletter or newspaper. So there are certain things that we can and can't do."The Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Hutchinson to consider newspaper change

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Enjoy an evening in the garden at Hutchinson Community College with live music from 50 Years Late. 

Thursday, Sept. 19, you can tour the Reno County Extension Master Gardener Demonstration Garden located on the HutchCC Campus and learn about plants that grow well in our area. Extension Master Gardener volunteers will be on hand beginning at 5:30 p.m. to answer your gardening questions. Music will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the pavilion by the garden. This event is free and open to the public. 

You are welcome to pack a picnic and enjoy the music as you dine. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685973151336.png" alt="Master Gardener Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Master Gardener Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Enjoy an evening in the garden at Hutchinson Community College with live music from 50 Years Late. Thursday, Sept. 19, you can tour the Reno County Extension Master Gardener Demonstration Garden located on the HutchCC Campus and learn about plants that grow well in our area. Extension Master Gardener volunteers will be on hand beginning at 5:30 p.m. to answer your gardening questions. Music will begin at 6:00 p.m. in the pavilion by the garden. This event is free and open to the public. You are welcome to pack a picnic and enjoy the music as you dine. Please bring a lawn chair as limited seating will be available.

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