HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County showed off the renovations to the Courthouse with public tours on Wednesday, Aug. 28.

Staff members hosted four tours throughout the day. The tours highlighted the Veterans Room, administration, jury rooms, and the Reno County District Attorney offices.

All five floors of the Courthouse had renovations done to some degree. The fifth floor, which is home to the District Attorney's office, had the most work done. The entire District Attorney's staff is now located on the fifth floor, while in the past, the staff had been located on multiple floors.

The Reno County Courthouse opened in 1931 at its current location, 206 W. 1st Ave.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724861256707.jpeg" alt="Reno County Courthouse Open House on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Courthouse Open House on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County showed off the renovations to the Courthouse with public tours on Wednesday, Aug. 28.Staff members hosted four tours throughout the day. The tours highlighted the Veterans Room, administration, jury rooms, and the Reno County District Attorney offices.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724861379747.jpeg" alt="Overlooking the first floor of the Reno County Courthouse at the Open House on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Overlooking the first floor of the Reno County Courthouse at the Open House on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>All five floors of the Courthouse had renovations done to some degree. The fifth floor, which is home to the District Attorney's office, had the most work done. The entire District Attorney's staff is now located on the fifth floor, while in the past, the staff had been located on multiple floors.The Reno County Courthouse opened in 1931 at its current location, 206 W. 1st Ave.

Reno County Courthouse shows off renovations

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas said estimates are that a lot more people will be traveling for the holiday weekend.

A lot of people like to cap off a nice summer with a last hurrah, if you will, last three-day weekend for a while. So AAA's projecting overall domestic travel over Labor Day weekend to be up 9% compared to last year, while the cost of travel domestically is down 2%. Some of these lower costs this year are being led by airfare, which is down 2% from last year, and rental cars, which are down 16% in price. Gas prices are also significantly lower, about 50 cents a gallon less than a year ago today.

The 4th of July period saw record numbers of people take to the skies and air travel will still be strong for Labor Day.

"Airlines have been busy all summer," Steward said. "We've seen just a large increase in addition to domestic airfares being cheaper this holiday. International flights are also 8% less expensive than last year, and we've really seen a record-breaking air travel summer. TSA's top 10 busiest travel days in the agency's history have all occurred this year since May 2024. So, that's pretty incredible, and they're expecting the peak travel day for this coming holiday to be Friday, August 30th, when they expect to screen 2.86 million people."

If you are driving to your destination, be sure that your car is ready for the trip.&nbsp;

"Pay special attention to those tires, like you mentioned, the tread, and make sure that they're properly aired up," Don't forget about your spare tire if your vehicle has one. Check your battery as well. That's another big failure point that we see this time of year. Last Labor Day weekend, in fact, AAA Emergency Roadside Service crews responded to more than 1,350 calls for assistance across Kansas. We want to make sure that you aren't spending your holiday weekend stuck on the side of the road. Get your car in and get it fully checked out."

If you need more travel information, go to <a href="http://AAA.com">AAA.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724853235652.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy AAA Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy AAA Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas said estimates are that a lot more people will be traveling for the holiday weekend.A lot of people like to cap off a nice summer with a last hurrah, if you will, last three-day weekend for a while. So AAA's projecting overall domestic travel over Labor Day weekend to be up 9% compared to last year, while the cost of travel domestically is down 2%. Some of these lower costs this year are being led by airfare, which is down 2% from last year, and rental cars, which are down 16% in price. Gas prices are also significantly lower, about 50 cents a gallon less than a year ago today.The 4th of July period saw record numbers of people take to the skies and air travel will still be strong for Labor Day."Airlines have been busy all summer," Steward said. "We've seen just a large increase in addition to domestic airfares being cheaper this holiday. International flights are also 8% less expensive than last year, and we've really seen a record-breaking air travel summer. TSA's top 10 busiest travel days in the agency's history have all occurred this year since May 2024. So, that's pretty incredible, and they're expecting the peak travel day for this coming holiday to be Friday, August 30th, when they expect to screen 2.86 million people."If you are driving to your destination, be sure that your car is ready for the trip.&nbsp;"Pay special attention to those tires, like you mentioned, the tread, and make sure that they're properly aired up," Don't forget about your spare tire if your vehicle has one. Check your battery as well. That's another big failure point that we see this time of year. Last Labor Day weekend, in fact, AAA Emergency Roadside Service crews responded to more than 1,350 calls for assistance across Kansas. We want to make sure that you aren't spending your holiday weekend stuck on the side of the road. Get your car in and get it fully checked out."If you need more travel information, go to <a href="http://AAA.com">AAA.com</a>.

Travel over holiday weekend should be strong


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The regularly scheduled Hutchinson Land Bank Board of Trustees meeting for September has been canceled due to a lack of agenda items.

The next scheduled meeting will be held on October 1, 2024 at 2 p.m. in the Executive Conference Room at City Hall.

If you have any questions, you may contact Carissa Paxton at (620) 259-4151.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583236568561.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The regularly scheduled Hutchinson Land Bank Board of Trustees meeting for September has been canceled due to a lack of agenda items.The next scheduled meeting will be held on October 1, 2024 at 2 p.m. in the Executive Conference Room at City Hall.If you have any questions, you may contact Carissa Paxton at (620) 259-4151.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Land Bank Board will not meet in September

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;

8/29/2024 7:03 PM-Katrina	Mare Hopkins-Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Drugs; Distribute of Depressant designated in 65-4105e, 4107b, 4107c, 4111b; 10 to &lt; 100 dosage units; Interference with Law Enforcement; Conceal /alter/destroy evidence Felony case; Probation Violation; Drugs; Distribute of Depressant designated in 65-4105e, 4107b, 4107c, 4111b; &lt; 3.5g&nbsp;

8/29/2024 6:56 PM-Racheal	Lee Williams=Drugs; Distribute of Depressant designated in 65-4105e, 4107b, 4107c, 4111b; &lt; 3.5g; Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Interference with Law Enforcement; Conceal /alter/destroy evidence Felony case; Probation Violation

8/29/2024 4:04 PM-Krystal	Dawn Estes-Theft; Property or Services; More than $100,000; Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance&nbsp;

8/29/2024 1:05 PM-Nicholas	Miguel Espinoza-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)&nbsp;

8/29/2024 12:43 PM-Aliza	Ranae Paypay-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv&nbsp;

8/29/2024 12:34 PM-Ismael	Hernandez Tellez-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

<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;8/29/2024 7:03 PM-Katrina	Mare Hopkins-Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Drugs; Distribute of Depressant designated in 65-4105e, 4107b, 4107c, 4111b; 10 to &lt; 100 dosage units; Interference with Law Enforcement; Conceal /alter/destroy evidence Felony case; Probation Violation; Drugs; Distribute of Depressant designated in 65-4105e, 4107b, 4107c, 4111b; &lt; 3.5g&nbsp;8/29/2024 6:56 PM-Racheal	Lee Williams=Drugs; Distribute of Depressant designated in 65-4105e, 4107b, 4107c, 4111b; &lt; 3.5g; Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Interference with Law Enforcement; Conceal /alter/destroy evidence Felony case; Probation Violation8/29/2024 4:04 PM-Krystal	Dawn Estes-Theft; Property or Services; More than $100,000; Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance&nbsp;8/29/2024 1:05 PM-Nicholas	Miguel Espinoza-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)&nbsp;8/29/2024 12:43 PM-Aliza	Ranae Paypay-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv&nbsp;8/29/2024 12:34 PM-Ismael	Hernandez Tellez-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

Daily Bookings

<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/boxscores/20240829_8m9r.xml">BOX SCORE</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 3-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team opened the 2024 season on Thursday with a 42-10 win over New Mexico Military Institute at Gowans Stadium.

Waymond Jordan Jr. rushed for 179 yards on 14 carries and two scores, while Derrick Salley Jr. caught two passes for 53 yards and two touchdowns.

The Blue Dragons offense accounted for 502 yards of total offense, the most since Sept. 2, 2023, when HutchCC posted 525 yards.

Jordan Jr. found the end-zone from 26 yards out on a third-and-one play to score the first points of the season at the 7:29 mark in the first quarter.&nbsp;

Hutchinson found the end-zone just over three minutes later when Samari Collier found Ja'Cory Thomas for a 68-yard touchdown pass to in front 14-0 with 4:12 left in the first period.

Salley Jr. pushed the lead to three scores on a one-handed grab in the end-zone with 2:16 to play in quarter one.

The Blue Dragons brought in backup quarterback Christian Johnson to the game in the second period. Johnson found Salley Jr. down the left sideline for a 41-yard connection to go in front 28-0.

Jordan Jr. (54-yard run), Johnson (eight-yard run) score the final two touchdowns of the night for the Blue Dragons.

NMMI scored its lone touchdown in the third quarter on a nine-yard passing play. The Broncos added a 26-yard field goal with 4:44 to play in the fourth quarter to score the games final play.

Hutch will travel to Council Bluffs, Iowa, on Saturday, Sept. 7 for a 1 p.m. kickoff at Titan Stadium. Iowa Western is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation.

HutchCC is now 56-35-2 all-time in season openers and have won three straight. The Blue Dragons are now 4-0 all-time against NMMI.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724988653106.jpeg" alt="Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/fball/2024-25/boxscores/20240829_8m9r.xml">BOX SCORE</a>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The No. 3-ranked Hutchinson Community College football team opened the 2024 season on Thursday with a 42-10 win over New Mexico Military Institute at Gowans Stadium.Waymond Jordan Jr. rushed for 179 yards on 14 carries and two scores, while Derrick Salley Jr. caught two passes for 53 yards and two touchdowns.The Blue Dragons offense accounted for 502 yards of total offense, the most since Sept. 2, 2023, when HutchCC posted 525 yards.Jordan Jr. found the end-zone from 26 yards out on a third-and-one play to score the first points of the season at the 7:29 mark in the first quarter.&nbsp;Hutchinson found the end-zone just over three minutes later when Samari Collier found Ja'Cory Thomas for a 68-yard touchdown pass to in front 14-0 with 4:12 left in the first period.Salley Jr. pushed the lead to three scores on a one-handed grab in the end-zone with 2:16 to play in quarter one.The Blue Dragons brought in backup quarterback Christian Johnson to the game in the second period. Johnson found Salley Jr. down the left sideline for a 41-yard connection to go in front 28-0.Jordan Jr. (54-yard run), Johnson (eight-yard run) score the final two touchdowns of the night for the Blue Dragons.NMMI scored its lone touchdown in the third quarter on a nine-yard passing play. The Broncos added a 26-yard field goal with 4:44 to play in the fourth quarter to score the games final play.Hutch will travel to Council Bluffs, Iowa, on Saturday, Sept. 7 for a 1 p.m. kickoff at Titan Stadium. Iowa Western is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation.HutchCC is now 56-35-2 all-time in season openers and have won three straight. The Blue Dragons are now 4-0 all-time against NMMI.&nbsp;

🏈 Blue Dragons cruise past Broncos in season opener

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners spent more than five and a half hours from the beginning of their meeting to the end on Wednesday, with the lion's share of that time hammering through where to cut more in the 2025 budget.

"The budget, when you began the day, was at, with property taxes $26,500,190, with a mill levy of 35.762," said Reno County Administrator Randy Partington. "With all the cuts and adjustments, I believe it was right around $200,000 in cuts to property taxes."

The budget after the cuts is $26,299,148, with a mill levy of 35.491.

"The museum had a significant cut," Partington said. "I believe the Farmers Market had a $1000 cut from the original amount, and a couple other small adjustments. You reduced the discretionary positions down to one position, from three to one. That was over $100,000 in cuts, so that's where you get your right around $200,000 in cuts. It is a reduced mill levy, but it's above the revenue neutral rate by, I think, it's 1.03 mills above the RNR."

The budget passed 4-1 with Commissioner John Whitesel voting against it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724932199732.jpeg" alt="The Board of County Commissioners deliberated the 2025 budget on Aug. 28, 2024. Screenshot from Reno County." />
 <figcaption>The Board of County Commissioners deliberated the 2025 budget on Aug. 28, 2024. Screenshot from Reno County.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners spent more than five and a half hours from the beginning of their meeting to the end on Wednesday, with the lion's share of that time hammering through where to cut more in the 2025 budget."The budget, when you began the day, was at, with property taxes $26,500,190, with a mill levy of 35.762," said Reno County Administrator Randy Partington. "With all the cuts and adjustments, I believe it was right around $200,000 in cuts to property taxes."The budget after the cuts is $26,299,148, with a mill levy of 35.491."The museum had a significant cut," Partington said. "I believe the Farmers Market had a $1000 cut from the original amount, and a couple other small adjustments. You reduced the discretionary positions down to one position, from three to one. That was over $100,000 in cuts, so that's where you get your right around $200,000 in cuts. It is a reduced mill levy, but it's above the revenue neutral rate by, I think, it's 1.03 mills above the RNR."The budget passed 4-1 with Commissioner John Whitesel voting against it.

County board passes budget after cuts

Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."

STEVE HARMON Hutch Post Contributor

Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the southwest corner of Avenue B and South Main.

In the late 1890s, a very young Hutchinson was starving for more cultural experiences. A group of city leaders banded together to build a very nice performing arts theatre.

The Shaw Theatre opened at 201 S. Main on Oct. 26, 1900, with Thompson and Shaw as manager. It was built as a stone "fireproof" theatre for $80,000. It seated 1,200 patrons. The first photo shows that venture at opening.

The second photo shows the interior, which reveals it even had box seating.

In October of 1902, The theatre's name was changed to the Home Theatre and management was taken over by William A. Loe. The third photo shows that name-change.

The 1903 flood severely damaged the curtain loft as the fourth photo shows, but it was repaired.

The flood of 1929 finished off the Home Theatre and plans started for replacing it with the Fox Theatre.

After the 1929 flood, contractor C.L. Burt started the replacement building, which stands there now. The fifth photo shows the "Burt Building" today at 201 S. Main, housing the Crystal Ballroom and owned by Fair City Folk Art L.L.C.

To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.

Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:

<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724854732689.png" alt="Home Theatre - 201-205 S. Main - c. 1902. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Home Theatre - 201-205 S. Main - c. 1902. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714573898261.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>STEVE HARMON Hutch Post ContributorToday's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the southwest corner of Avenue B and South Main.In the late 1890s, a very young Hutchinson was starving for more cultural experiences. A group of city leaders banded together to build a very nice performing arts theatre.The Shaw Theatre opened at 201 S. Main on Oct. 26, 1900, with Thompson and Shaw as manager. It was built as a stone "fireproof" theatre for $80,000. It seated 1,200 patrons. The first photo shows that venture at opening.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724854732689.png" alt="Home Theatre - 201-205 S. Main - c. 1902. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Home Theatre - 201-205 S. Main - c. 1902. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>The second photo shows the interior, which reveals it even had box seating.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724854796063.png" alt="Home Theatre interior with box seating - 1902 (built 1901-razed 1929) - S.W. Cor. B &amp; Main (by Hirst). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Home Theatre interior with box seating - 1902 (built 1901-razed 1929) - S.W. Cor. B &amp; Main (by Hirst). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In October of 1902, The theatre's name was changed to the Home Theatre and management was taken over by William A. Loe. The third photo shows that name-change.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724854824479.png" alt="Home Theatre - C.L. Burt Bldg. - 201-205 S. Main - S.W.Cor. B &amp; Main - c. 1908. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Home Theatre - C.L. Burt Bldg. - 201-205 S. Main - S.W.Cor. B &amp; Main - c. 1908. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>The 1903 flood severely damaged the curtain loft as the fourth photo shows, but it was repaired.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724854877856.png" alt="Home Theatre collapsed curtain loft - back - 201 S. Main (1903 flood). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Home Theatre collapsed curtain loft - back - 201 S. Main (1903 flood). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>The flood of 1929 finished off the Home Theatre and plans started for replacing it with the Fox Theatre.After the 1929 flood, contractor C.L. Burt started the replacement building, which stands there now. The fifth photo shows the "Burt Building" today at 201 S. Main, housing the Crystal Ballroom and owned by Fair City Folk Art L.L.C.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724855116313.png" alt="Home Theatre - Burt Bldg. - 201 S. Main - July 21, 2024. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Home Theatre - Burt Bldg. - 201 S. Main - July 21, 2024. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a>

📷 Throwback Thursday: Shaw Theatre - Vol. 85

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel wants to be clear. Hutchinson needs more housing, no matter who is putting it up.

"Housing has been a topic for several years. It was, you know, it was brought up during our ARPA discussions around what can we do to bolster housing in Hutchinson," Teufel said. "The city and the county invested mightily from ARPA dollars in housing rehabilitation, but there has still been, you know, that elephant in the room of what is it going to take to get new housing development sparked in Hutchinson, even though we all recognize that it's a need. I was really glad to see us finally get to the point with Jim Strawn and Strawn Contracting and their proposal for the development on 43rd because I think that new housing product is much needed here. We hear it from businesses when they're trying to recruit people to town that they need workforce housing. It's one of the things holding us back, you know, we're creating, literally, I looked back over the last five years, we're creating hundreds of jobs with existing industry. At the same time, if we're not getting those people that they're hiring to live here because we don't have the housing product that the market demands, then we needed a developer to step into that space. I applaud Jim Strawn for, you know, a year ago or two he applied for the MIH housing grant from the state. He's worked really hard to put his development concept together. But one of the reasons it was hard for him to get to the place that he could actually then put, you know, dig dirt is that there's a big cost to some of the infrastructure. And generally, that infrastructure gets placed on lots as special assessments. But there are some added costs for his project with a lift station and some drainage way reserve that has to be carved out that just are expensive on the front end. They don't really generate a return until this the whole development is complete. That development timeline might take five to ten years. And so, it's a lot of risk for a developer like him. I think it's a risk for any developer, and that is the crux of the issue of why it's been hard to get a private developer to the table to say yes."

Teufel also is glad the city sees the need, as well.

"I applaud, too, our new city manager Enrico Villegas, who came up with an idea for housing development out generally near Hendricks," Teufel said. "He had approached the County Commission about a possible housing incentive using some of the county's economic development reserve. And so, the county had a debate about that. And I was not at that meeting, so, you know, I'm paraphrasing. But there was a lot of discussion then around, yes, we want a tool that can help spark housing across all of Reno County. And so, I think it's an appropriate thing that the county is looking at how do we provide an incentive for any developer who wants to build in Reno County if it just, you know, as to jumpstart things. Now, I also think that at the same time, we also ought to make sure that we go back to some of the previous housing studies done here that say that there are a couple thousand or more homes that are also either vacant or blighted that need to be addressed. Because if you can take some of that product and either rehabilitate it or do infill on vacant lots, you don't also then incur more costs for, you know, specials for streets and sewer and water infrastructure because it's already there. So, I think we need to be looking at both. But I do think, you know, it's important that we get creative. And so, I applaud the city manager for coming up with that concept and presenting it. And I also just want the county to take a careful approach that they need to just be cautious that they don't also deplete the economic development reserve.

That reserve is an important tool if the new industrial park is able to land a really big fish in the near future.

"It is also there as kind of your treasure chest for when you then have a catalytic project in the future that you want to make sure you have funds in reserve for," Teufel said. "We don't want to spend all of our savings bank on one thing. So, you know, I applaud the work that's been done."

Teufel facilitated a meeting between the city, the county and Jim Strawn this week that ultimately resulted in Strawn coming to the county and asking for help for his project, which they seemed on board with doing. 

County Counselor Patrick Hoffman and Strawn still need to work out a model agreement that can be used with future developers, so the amount of county assistance is unclear at this point. The city has been tearing down more houses than it has been putting up in the period between 2010 and 2021, so additional housing is a need for the community, all things considered.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676993555557.jpeg" alt="Debra Teufel at Hutchinson City Council-Feb. 21, 2023" />
 <figcaption>Debra Teufel at Hutchinson City Council-Feb. 21, 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel wants to be clear. Hutchinson needs more housing, no matter who is putting it up."Housing has been a topic for several years. It was, you know, it was brought up during our ARPA discussions around what can we do to bolster housing in Hutchinson," Teufel said. "The city and the county invested mightily from ARPA dollars in housing rehabilitation, but there has still been, you know, that elephant in the room of what is it going to take to get new housing development sparked in Hutchinson, even though we all recognize that it's a need. I was really glad to see us finally get to the point with Jim Strawn and Strawn Contracting and their proposal for the development on 43rd because I think that new housing product is much needed here. We hear it from businesses when they're trying to recruit people to town that they need workforce housing. It's one of the things holding us back, you know, we're creating, literally, I looked back over the last five years, we're creating hundreds of jobs with existing industry. At the same time, if we're not getting those people that they're hiring to live here because we don't have the housing product that the market demands, then we needed a developer to step into that space. I applaud Jim Strawn for, you know, a year ago or two he applied for the MIH housing grant from the state. He's worked really hard to put his development concept together. But one of the reasons it was hard for him to get to the place that he could actually then put, you know, dig dirt is that there's a big cost to some of the infrastructure. And generally, that infrastructure gets placed on lots as special assessments. But there are some added costs for his project with a lift station and some drainage way reserve that has to be carved out that just are expensive on the front end. They don't really generate a return until this the whole development is complete. That development timeline might take five to ten years. And so, it's a lot of risk for a developer like him. I think it's a risk for any developer, and that is the crux of the issue of why it's been hard to get a private developer to the table to say yes."Teufel also is glad the city sees the need, as well."I applaud, too, our new city manager Enrico Villegas, who came up with an idea for housing development out generally near Hendricks," Teufel said. "He had approached the County Commission about a possible housing incentive using some of the county's economic development reserve. And so, the county had a debate about that. And I was not at that meeting, so, you know, I'm paraphrasing. But there was a lot of discussion then around, yes, we want a tool that can help spark housing across all of Reno County. And so, I think it's an appropriate thing that the county is looking at how do we provide an incentive for any developer who wants to build in Reno County if it just, you know, as to jumpstart things. Now, I also think that at the same time, we also ought to make sure that we go back to some of the previous housing studies done here that say that there are a couple thousand or more homes that are also either vacant or blighted that need to be addressed. Because if you can take some of that product and either rehabilitate it or do infill on vacant lots, you don't also then incur more costs for, you know, specials for streets and sewer and water infrastructure because it's already there. So, I think we need to be looking at both. But I do think, you know, it's important that we get creative. And so, I applaud the city manager for coming up with that concept and presenting it. And I also just want the county to take a careful approach that they need to just be cautious that they don't also deplete the economic development reserve.That reserve is an important tool if the new industrial park is able to land a really big fish in the near future."It is also there as kind of your treasure chest for when you then have a catalytic project in the future that you want to make sure you have funds in reserve for," Teufel said. "We don't want to spend all of our savings bank on one thing. So, you know, I applaud the work that's been done."Teufel facilitated a meeting between the city, the county and Jim Strawn this week that ultimately resulted in Strawn coming to the county and asking for help for his project, which they seemed on board with doing. County Counselor Patrick Hoffman and Strawn still need to work out a model agreement that can be used with future developers, so the amount of county assistance is unclear at this point. The city has been tearing down more houses than it has been putting up in the period between 2010 and 2021, so additional housing is a need for the community, all things considered.

Chamber supportive of all efforts to increase housing

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair begins next week and general manager Bryan Schulz continues to outline some of the precautionary safety measures the fair will use this year.

"This year we're also placing vehicle mitigation systems at gates 1 and 3," Kansas State Fair general manager Bryan Schulz said. "We're working with a company called 'Meridan' and they're bringing in these systems. There's two I think they're like one-ton concrete blocks, two on each side, and then they have an arm that comes down."

Schulz says these mitigation systems have the capability of stopping a high-speed vehicle if it were coming towards the fairground gates.

"So if that car is coming up Poplar about 60-80 miles an hour, we should be able to stop that vehicle within 15 feet," Schulz said. "It will engulf it and it will basically take underneath the engine and shut it down."

Schulz gave an explanation of how the systems will work if it were needed.&nbsp;

"We have got one on the west side of Gate 1 and one on the east side," Schulz said. "They will close down, they will lock, they have chains down to the bottom. The whole thing has spikes so that when they get hit they'll go up and will start digging into the asphalt and it will stop it."

Schulz says the Kansas State Fair has been working with the Department of Homeland Security to make sure every fairgoer is safe and enjoys their time in Hutchinson.

"Again, no intel, but it's all about safety," Schulz said. "We have so many people buzzing up and down this road here that we want to make sure everyone is safe."

There will also be other concrete barriers placed around the outside of the grounds.

"We're also putting some concrete barriers out in front of the Gate 1 ticket booth," Schulz said. "We're all trying to be as safety conscious as possible."

The Kansas State Fair is Sept. 6-15 in Hutchinson. For more information on the fair, <a href="https://www.kansasstatefair.com/">click here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709121385427.jpeg" alt="Bryan Schulz-Photo Courtesy IAFE" />
 <figcaption>Bryan Schulz-Photo Courtesy IAFE</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair begins next week and general manager Bryan Schulz continues to outline some of the precautionary safety measures the fair will use this year."This year we're also placing vehicle mitigation systems at gates 1 and 3," Kansas State Fair general manager Bryan Schulz said. "We're working with a company called 'Meridan' and they're bringing in these systems. There's two I think they're like one-ton concrete blocks, two on each side, and then they have an arm that comes down."Schulz says these mitigation systems have the capability of stopping a high-speed vehicle if it were coming towards the fairground gates."So if that car is coming up Poplar about 60-80 miles an hour, we should be able to stop that vehicle within 15 feet," Schulz said. "It will engulf it and it will basically take underneath the engine and shut it down."Schulz gave an explanation of how the systems will work if it were needed.&nbsp;"We have got one on the west side of Gate 1 and one on the east side," Schulz said. "They will close down, they will lock, they have chains down to the bottom. The whole thing has spikes so that when they get hit they'll go up and will start digging into the asphalt and it will stop it."Schulz says the Kansas State Fair has been working with the Department of Homeland Security to make sure every fairgoer is safe and enjoys their time in Hutchinson."Again, no intel, but it's all about safety," Schulz said. "We have so many people buzzing up and down this road here that we want to make sure everyone is safe."There will also be other concrete barriers placed around the outside of the grounds."We're also putting some concrete barriers out in front of the Gate 1 ticket booth," Schulz said. "We're all trying to be as safety conscious as possible."The Kansas State Fair is Sept. 6-15 in Hutchinson. For more information on the fair, <a href="https://www.kansasstatefair.com/">click here</a>.&nbsp;

Vehicle mitigation systems coming to Kansas State Fair

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A revision to the agreement between Interfaith Housing and Reno County regarding ARPA funds was passed by the Board of County Commissioners on a 3-2 vote on Wednesday, with Commissioners Parks, Bogner and Friesen voting for the changes and Commissioners Hirst and Whitesel voting against.

Interfaith is requesting that current remaining un-allocated funding projected at approximately $120,000 be able to be utilized on priority rehabilitation projects including those identified within the town of Hutchinson. The big piece is demolition of the old St. Elizabeth Hospital at 500 West 20th.

"For the last couple of years, we've had kind of a concept of a redevelopment plan, which is two-story walkups. Design-wise, I think it's a little out of the box for Hutch, but it may work very well in that kind of corridor. It certainly would be a visual stimulus for that area. More recently, through another byproduct of ARPA and doing a lot of work, it's opened up conversations with some of our big employers in the area, more conversation about workforce housing. We all know that there's a continued need for that. Our intent would be to redevelop it with homebuyer units, what that final master plan looks like, if we can get under an option for the additional land and the Mirror building, those are all part of the conversation. We would like to see that whole block redeveloped."

Interfaith wants to get local developers involved.

"Currently, that property is assessed at land value only," Nelson said. "You guys are getting $850 a year in property taxes. Our redevelopment plans would be $5 million plus in assessed property value."

Hirst's main objection was that this shifts funds away from projects he considers as closer to ready than St. Elizabeth's might be. Whitesel appeared to agree with that assessment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719419868249.jpeg" alt="Clint Nelson-Interfaith Housing" />
 <figcaption>Clint Nelson-Interfaith Housing</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A revision to the agreement between Interfaith Housing and Reno County regarding ARPA funds was passed by the Board of County Commissioners on a 3-2 vote on Wednesday, with Commissioners Parks, Bogner and Friesen voting for the changes and Commissioners Hirst and Whitesel voting against.Interfaith is requesting that current remaining un-allocated funding projected at approximately $120,000 be able to be utilized on priority rehabilitation projects including those identified within the town of Hutchinson. The big piece is demolition of the old St. Elizabeth Hospital at 500 West 20th."For the last couple of years, we've had kind of a concept of a redevelopment plan, which is two-story walkups. Design-wise, I think it's a little out of the box for Hutch, but it may work very well in that kind of corridor. It certainly would be a visual stimulus for that area. More recently, through another byproduct of ARPA and doing a lot of work, it's opened up conversations with some of our big employers in the area, more conversation about workforce housing. We all know that there's a continued need for that. Our intent would be to redevelop it with homebuyer units, what that final master plan looks like, if we can get under an option for the additional land and the Mirror building, those are all part of the conversation. We would like to see that whole block redeveloped."Interfaith wants to get local developers involved."Currently, that property is assessed at land value only," Nelson said. "You guys are getting $850 a year in property taxes. Our redevelopment plans would be $5 million plus in assessed property value."Hirst's main objection was that this shifts funds away from projects he considers as closer to ready than St. Elizabeth's might be. Whitesel appeared to agree with that assessment.

Interfaith to reallocate ARPA funds toward St. Elizabeth's demo

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — We are less than a month away from the Farm to Table Date Night Dinner at Dillon Nature Center on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

<a href="https://secure.rec1.com/KS/hutchinson-ks/catalog/index/5c3d922670f5d7be2e93a94e0d7d00a9?filter=c2VhcmNoPUZhcm0lMjBUbyUyMFRhYmxl&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawE8fLdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHWTWVjFdukQXq5zQDRQ5_lcZo9CtoM07cU7cRNTBoUY9ZbcMYLeiO4EYpA_aem_sz4iVxVJaGJYmrvgUETY1w">Each $65 ticket</a> includes unique, chef-prepared dishes made from locally grown foods, and two complimentary drinks of your choice. There are only a few tickets left, so buy before they are gone!

Later in the evening you can mingle to live local music and enjoy the cash bar.

All proceeds from the Farm to Table Dinner go toward expanding preschool programming at Dillon Nature Center.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722617484777.jpeg" alt="Farm to Table 2024" />
 <figcaption>Farm to Table 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch RecHUTCHINSON, Kan. — We are less than a month away from the Farm to Table Date Night Dinner at Dillon Nature Center on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.<a href="https://secure.rec1.com/KS/hutchinson-ks/catalog/index/5c3d922670f5d7be2e93a94e0d7d00a9?filter=c2VhcmNoPUZhcm0lMjBUbyUyMFRhYmxl&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawE8fLdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHWTWVjFdukQXq5zQDRQ5_lcZo9CtoM07cU7cRNTBoUY9ZbcMYLeiO4EYpA_aem_sz4iVxVJaGJYmrvgUETY1w">Each $65 ticket</a> includes unique, chef-prepared dishes made from locally grown foods, and two complimentary drinks of your choice. There are only a few tickets left, so buy before they are gone!Later in the evening you can mingle to live local music and enjoy the cash bar.All proceeds from the Farm to Table Dinner go toward expanding preschool programming at Dillon Nature Center.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Farm to Table less than a month away

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;

8/28/2024 11:30 PM-Jason	Allen Fowler-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

8/28/2024 8:05 PM-Roy	Jorde Wey Groves-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

8/28/2024 12:18 PM-Kellie	Brittney Sanchez-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; 8/28/2024 11:30 PM-Jason	Allen Fowler-Failure to Appear&nbsp;8/28/2024 8:05 PM-Roy	Jorde Wey Groves-Failure to Appear&nbsp;8/28/2024 12:18 PM-Kellie	Brittney Sanchez-Probation Violation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas, if you're driving for one last summer trip, it will be a little lighter on your wallet this year than last.

"They'll be saving money at the pumps this year compared to last," Steward said. "We're at $3.06 a gallon on average in Kansas. That is about $0.50 less than where we were a year ago. Right now, it's about $0.30 less than the national average, and that puts us with the 10th cheapest average gas prices in the country. So, if you're traveling in Kansas or in our general vicinity to the south and southeast, that's where you'll find the lowest gas prices in the country."

&nbsp;"After the holidays, depending on other factors, we could see gas prices more widespread under $3 a gallon," Steward said. "Demand typically falls in the fall and winter, as fewer people are out driving. As we've talked about many times, there are certainly other factors around the world that impact crude oil prices, and there's geopolitical issues, war situations, which we're definitely watching in the Middle East. And then, of course, we're still in hurricane season, which can impact refining operations."

To find out the latest prices, go to <a href="https://gasprices.aaa.com/">https://gasprices.aaa.com/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666967489542.jpg" alt="gas station, gas pump, refuel" />
 <figcaption>gas station, gas pump, refuel</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas, if you're driving for one last summer trip, it will be a little lighter on your wallet this year than last."They'll be saving money at the pumps this year compared to last," Steward said. "We're at $3.06 a gallon on average in Kansas. That is about $0.50 less than where we were a year ago. Right now, it's about $0.30 less than the national average, and that puts us with the 10th cheapest average gas prices in the country. So, if you're traveling in Kansas or in our general vicinity to the south and southeast, that's where you'll find the lowest gas prices in the country."Area county averages are as follows:Reno: $2.85McPherson: $3.00Harvey: $3.05Sedgwick: $3.18Kingman: $3.23Pratt: $3.14Stafford: $3.16Rice: $3.10&nbsp;"After the holidays, depending on other factors, we could see gas prices more widespread under $3 a gallon," Steward said. "Demand typically falls in the fall and winter, as fewer people are out driving. As we've talked about many times, there are certainly other factors around the world that impact crude oil prices, and there's geopolitical issues, war situations, which we're definitely watching in the Middle East. And then, of course, we're still in hurricane season, which can impact refining operations."To find out the latest prices, go to <a href="https://gasprices.aaa.com/">https://gasprices.aaa.com/</a>.

End of August gas cheaper than 2023

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The public elevator at the Law Enforcement Center needs refurbishment, and the Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a bid from Sunrise Elevator, Benton Kansas in the amount of $149,857.64 at their meeting on Wednesday.

"After discussing the options with the county administrator and the city, we have decided to recommend doing just the public elevator this year," said Maintenance Director Harlan Depew. "We will budget for the back elevator in a future year. The project would retain the existing car, but replace all of the controls, the mechanics, modernize the controls and mechanical equipment and bring the elevator up to current state code requirements."

The county specified non-proprietary equipment in the project, so that they aren't locked in to getting one particular manufacturer's parts going forward. Even though Sunrise wasn't the lowest bid, they agreed to take care of some expected additional issues if they arise.

"When they remove that hydraulic cylinder, which is buried in the ground, we know that cylinder has leaked a little bit," Depew said. "The elevator's been shut down a little while because of that. We didn't want to continue to leak fluid out of that cylinder, but if that cylinder is not in casing, then there is potential that some of the soil surrounding the cylinder would be contaminated and would have to be dug out of there and remediated, disposed of properly. TK [the low bidder's] terms and conditions basically say, if they find that, then they walk away from it and it's our responsibility from there on to remediate that situation. Sunrise will work with us. They will dig it out. They will place any contaminated soil in 55-gallon drums and then we can dispose of it. That one thing, in and of itself, I believe, justifies paying that extra $5000."

Also, Sunrise has a history of good work for the county in the past.

"Sunrise is a little smaller," Depew said. "They're maybe a little more able to pivot and work with us on different things that come up. Matt Whitley, who is the owner of that company from Benton, is the one that led the project on the partial modernization on the manual elevator here at the courthouse about five years ago. They did a great job on that one, so I'm very comfortable with him and his company."

The city and the county will go 50-50 on the cost of the work.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688152930294.jpeg" alt="HPD Law Enforcement Center Judd Weil" />
 <figcaption>HPD Law Enforcement Center Judd Weil</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The public elevator at the Law Enforcement Center needs refurbishment, and the Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a bid from Sunrise Elevator, Benton Kansas in the amount of $149,857.64 at their meeting on Wednesday."After discussing the options with the county administrator and the city, we have decided to recommend doing just the public elevator this year," said Maintenance Director Harlan Depew. "We will budget for the back elevator in a future year. The project would retain the existing car, but replace all of the controls, the mechanics, modernize the controls and mechanical equipment and bring the elevator up to current state code requirements."The county specified non-proprietary equipment in the project, so that they aren't locked in to getting one particular manufacturer's parts going forward. Even though Sunrise wasn't the lowest bid, they agreed to take care of some expected additional issues if they arise."When they remove that hydraulic cylinder, which is buried in the ground, we know that cylinder has leaked a little bit," Depew said. "The elevator's been shut down a little while because of that. We didn't want to continue to leak fluid out of that cylinder, but if that cylinder is not in casing, then there is potential that some of the soil surrounding the cylinder would be contaminated and would have to be dug out of there and remediated, disposed of properly. TK [the low bidder's] terms and conditions basically say, if they find that, then they walk away from it and it's our responsibility from there on to remediate that situation. Sunrise will work with us. They will dig it out. They will place any contaminated soil in 55-gallon drums and then we can dispose of it. That one thing, in and of itself, I believe, justifies paying that extra $5000."Also, Sunrise has a history of good work for the county in the past."Sunrise is a little smaller," Depew said. "They're maybe a little more able to pivot and work with us on different things that come up. Matt Whitley, who is the owner of that company from Benton, is the one that led the project on the partial modernization on the manual elevator here at the courthouse about five years ago. They did a great job on that one, so I'm very comfortable with him and his company."The city and the county will go 50-50 on the cost of the work.

Board approves elevator refurbishment

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel talked to Hutch Post about the vision for the Atrium Hotel property.

"We have been anxious to see more development along the K-61 corridor and a repurposing of the former Atrium site for a very long time going on five years," Teufel said. "You know when Joshua Joseph came to the podium at City Council recently, he talked about and rehashed some of that history, but the reality is you know he had an opportunity to come to the city several years ago when they issued an RFP for new hotel development. He had a concept then, but the concept was to build a new Holiday Inn out on the frontage and not really deal with the blight that exists in the existing building. That was really why that project wasn't selected by the city at the time. It was it was just too little of a plan to to take care of the blight. What we want to see is that blighted building gone."

Once the building is gone, there are lots of directions the property could go.

"I think that if Joshua would clean up the property he still, and if he would bear the cost for it, he would still have a very marketable property for a new hotel," Teufel said. "If he would just clean up the blight that he has there today, we would welcome a new hotel product there. I don't know that he's going to be in a position to do that, but that's what we would like to see is some sort of new hotel product. We've also had some inquiries in the last six months for large furniture retailers and also large sporting good retailers that see Hutchinson as a good growth opportunity. They too would like to identify real estate along the 61 corridor, so there are any number of things like that that I could see happen on along there."

Teufel sees the city's actions as appropriate.

 I think, you know, he's going to say the city's being opportunistic, but the fact is he's waited five years or longer to really take care of that property, and so the city is having to take these measures," Teufel said. "He still has the opportunity within the next, the clock's ticking, but it was within 30 days, to come up with a plan for demolition. If he would come up with that plan, he would still have title to that property and it is a valuable asset. But, you know, it's kind of in his hands at this point to make the right move, but it also has to be cleaned up in the right way because there is asbestos present there. There is black mold in the facility. It is a danger to that neighborhood."

The City Council will next take a look at the situation on Oct. 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719935624992.jpeg" alt="Black mold is present in dozens of rooms at the Atrium Hotel. Image courtesy City of Hutchinson." />
 <figcaption>Black mold is present in dozens of rooms at the Atrium Hotel. Image courtesy City of Hutchinson.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel talked to Hutch Post about the vision for the Atrium Hotel property."We have been anxious to see more development along the K-61 corridor and a repurposing of the former Atrium site for a very long time going on five years," Teufel said. "You know when Joshua Joseph came to the podium at City Council recently, he talked about and rehashed some of that history, but the reality is you know he had an opportunity to come to the city several years ago when they issued an RFP for new hotel development. He had a concept then, but the concept was to build a new Holiday Inn out on the frontage and not really deal with the blight that exists in the existing building. That was really why that project wasn't selected by the city at the time. It was it was just too little of a plan to to take care of the blight. What we want to see is that blighted building gone."Once the building is gone, there are lots of directions the property could go."I think that if Joshua would clean up the property he still, and if he would bear the cost for it, he would still have a very marketable property for a new hotel," Teufel said. "If he would just clean up the blight that he has there today, we would welcome a new hotel product there. I don't know that he's going to be in a position to do that, but that's what we would like to see is some sort of new hotel product. We've also had some inquiries in the last six months for large furniture retailers and also large sporting good retailers that see Hutchinson as a good growth opportunity. They too would like to identify real estate along the 61 corridor, so there are any number of things like that that I could see happen on along there."Teufel sees the city's actions as appropriate. I think, you know, he's going to say the city's being opportunistic, but the fact is he's waited five years or longer to really take care of that property, and so the city is having to take these measures," Teufel said. "He still has the opportunity within the next, the clock's ticking, but it was within 30 days, to come up with a plan for demolition. If he would come up with that plan, he would still have title to that property and it is a valuable asset. But, you know, it's kind of in his hands at this point to make the right move, but it also has to be cleaned up in the right way because there is asbestos present there. There is black mold in the facility. It is a danger to that neighborhood."The City Council will next take a look at the situation on Oct. 1.

Teufel: 'We want to see that blighted building gone'

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — USD 312 Superintendent Craig Idacavage isn't having to drive bus on a regular basis this year.

"The board voted last year, at the end of last year to increase bus pay," Idacavage said. "Our starting bus drivers start at $19 an hour and so we've picked up a few more drivers. We are still looking for a few more. We have a couple centralized pickups that we would certainly like to eliminate and go back to going to mailboxes and picking people up but just right now with the staffing that we have at our bus driver positions, it's just not possible."

Getting rural kids to a centralized stop can be a challenge.

"That's not possible for them to walk and so we understand that," Idacavage said. "Those parents, they're compensated for that. We do receive funding and so we do make the square with that but we do understand it can be a struggle and so as long as we can get some more drivers, we'll take care of that."

The Haven district is spread over 283 square miles.&nbsp;

"Just give us a call, (620) 465-3455," Idacavage said. "Even we've talked about doing things where drivers can park the buses at home. We'll work with you. We will get you trained. If you don't have a CDL, we do our training there in-house and so we're able to help you out with that as well."

You can apply <a href="https://havenschools.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx">online</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722731811660.jpg" alt="school bus, school, bus" />
 <figcaption>school bus, school, bus</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — USD 312 Superintendent Craig Idacavage isn't having to drive bus on a regular basis this year."The board voted last year, at the end of last year to increase bus pay," Idacavage said. "Our starting bus drivers start at $19 an hour and so we've picked up a few more drivers. We are still looking for a few more. We have a couple centralized pickups that we would certainly like to eliminate and go back to going to mailboxes and picking people up but just right now with the staffing that we have at our bus driver positions, it's just not possible."Getting rural kids to a centralized stop can be a challenge."That's not possible for them to walk and so we understand that," Idacavage said. "Those parents, they're compensated for that. We do receive funding and so we do make the square with that but we do understand it can be a struggle and so as long as we can get some more drivers, we'll take care of that."The Haven district is spread over 283 square miles.&nbsp;"Just give us a call, (620) 465-3455," Idacavage said. "Even we've talked about doing things where drivers can park the buses at home. We'll work with you. We will get you trained. If you don't have a CDL, we do our training there in-house and so we're able to help you out with that as well."You can apply <a href="https://havenschools.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx">online</a>.

Haven USD 312 needs bus drivers

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;

8/28/2024 1:34 AM-Chavez	Michael Williams-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO; Failure to Appear&nbsp;

8/28/2024 12:08 AM-Cristian	Jovanny	Ruiz Andrade-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

8/27/2024 10:43 PM-Debra	Diane Green-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

8/27/2024 9:48 PM-Karen	Rosalie McDade-Failure to Appear

8/27/2024 9:13 PM-Lukas	Alexander McDade-FTA; Municipal Court&nbsp;

8/27/2024 8:34 PM-Brooklyn	Rose Sanchez-Probation Violation&nbsp;

8/27/2024 8:16 PM-David	Allen West-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

8/27/2024 7:15 PM-Justin	Eugene Gardner-Failure to Appear; Criminal Possession of Firearm by Felon; Conviction in Previous 5 Years of specified KSA; DL Violation; No Drivers License; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance&nbsp;

8/27/2024 1:51 PM-William	Jack Allyn Shaw-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv&nbsp;

8/27/2024 12:01 PM-Ethan	McKay Helus-Agg battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon

<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;8/28/2024 1:34 AM-Chavez	Michael Williams-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO; Failure to Appear&nbsp;8/28/2024 12:08 AM-Cristian	Jovanny	Ruiz Andrade-Failure to Appear&nbsp;8/27/2024 10:43 PM-Debra	Diane Green-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body8/27/2024 9:48 PM-Karen	Rosalie McDade-Failure to Appear8/27/2024 9:13 PM-Lukas	Alexander McDade-FTA; Municipal Court&nbsp;8/27/2024 8:34 PM-Brooklyn	Rose Sanchez-Probation Violation&nbsp;8/27/2024 8:16 PM-David	Allen West-Failure to Appear&nbsp;8/27/2024 7:15 PM-Justin	Eugene Gardner-Failure to Appear; Criminal Possession of Firearm by Felon; Conviction in Previous 5 Years of specified KSA; DL Violation; No Drivers License; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance&nbsp;8/27/2024 1:51 PM-William	Jack Allyn Shaw-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv&nbsp;8/27/2024 12:01 PM-Ethan	McKay Helus-Agg battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon

NEWTON, Kan. — The Newton High School football program is under new leadership heading into 2024, as Taylor Counts takes over.&nbsp;

"You always talk about the history of Newton football," Counts said. "Back when they were really physical and tough and other schools didn't want to play them. However long that takes to get back to that, I'm here for the ride. We are going to work our tails off to get Newton back to that."

Counts is pleased with how practice has gone thus far in his first year.

"We've been preaching we want to play fast and we want to play physical," Counts said. "We've got to practice that way too if we're wanting to play that way and we definitely have so far."

The Railers have roughly 40 guys out, as far as sophomores through seniors go.

"We don't have a lot of players," Counts said. "We've got to be in some dang good shape, so we're going to practice into shape."

Counts has been pleased with his team showing up to practice at 5 a.m.

"The kids have been showing up ready to go at 4:45 every morning," Counts said.&nbsp;

Counts is a Salina native and played at Salina Central before playing collegiately at Pittsburg State University, where he was apart of the 2011 national championship team.

"I actually never played against Newton when I was in high school," Counts said. "People think I'm crazy when I say that, but I never got to play them, so that will be fun to play Salina Central in Salina this year."

Counts is really looking forward to playing at Fischer Field for the home opener on Sept. 13.

"I'm excited as heck honestly," Counts said. "I think Fischer Field is such a unique place. People still show up in the town of Newton, even though there hasn't been a lot of winning in so many years. I can't wait to see what this place looks like when we do start winning some games. We've got some excited traditions we want to get in place and start. I think we can get that to be a place where you don't want to come there and play."

The Railers offensively will be led by former Derby and Friends University quarterback Dan Dawdy. He will serve as an offensive coordinator for the first time in his coaching career.

"He's a young energetic guy that will be really good for our team," Counts said. "We've got the option of going really fast, or we can slow it down if we need to. We've got a good group of skill guys, so really looking forward to seeing it all in place."

The Railers' defense will get up in your face and defend on the corners.

"We're going to bring a 3-3 stack," Counts said. "I think it's kind of that organized chaos of defense. You'll have guys blitzing from who knows where. We're going to be physical, that's for sure. The kids have been catching onto it fast."

NEWTON RAILERS SCHEDULE Sept. 6 @ Maize South Sept. 13 ANDOVER CENTRAL Sept. 20 EISENHOWER Sept. 27 @ Goddard Oct. 4 @ Salina Central Oct. 11 ANDOVER Oct. 18 @ Hutchinson Oct. 25 ARK CITY

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693649161866.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy USD 373 Newton" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy USD 373 Newton</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostNEWTON, Kan. — The Newton High School football program is under new leadership heading into 2024, as Taylor Counts takes over.&nbsp;"You always talk about the history of Newton football," Counts said. "Back when they were really physical and tough and other schools didn't want to play them. However long that takes to get back to that, I'm here for the ride. We are going to work our tails off to get Newton back to that."Counts is pleased with how practice has gone thus far in his first year."We've been preaching we want to play fast and we want to play physical," Counts said. "We've got to practice that way too if we're wanting to play that way and we definitely have so far."The Railers have roughly 40 guys out, as far as sophomores through seniors go."We don't have a lot of players," Counts said. "We've got to be in some dang good shape, so we're going to practice into shape."Counts has been pleased with his team showing up to practice at 5 a.m."The kids have been showing up ready to go at 4:45 every morning," Counts said.&nbsp;Counts is a Salina native and played at Salina Central before playing collegiately at Pittsburg State University, where he was apart of the 2011 national championship team."I actually never played against Newton when I was in high school," Counts said. "People think I'm crazy when I say that, but I never got to play them, so that will be fun to play Salina Central in Salina this year."Counts is really looking forward to playing at Fischer Field for the home opener on Sept. 13."I'm excited as heck honestly," Counts said. "I think Fischer Field is such a unique place. People still show up in the town of Newton, even though there hasn't been a lot of winning in so many years. I can't wait to see what this place looks like when we do start winning some games. We've got some excited traditions we want to get in place and start. I think we can get that to be a place where you don't want to come there and play."The Railers offensively will be led by former Derby and Friends University quarterback Dan Dawdy. He will serve as an offensive coordinator for the first time in his coaching career."He's a young energetic guy that will be really good for our team," Counts said. "We've got the option of going really fast, or we can slow it down if we need to. We've got a good group of skill guys, so really looking forward to seeing it all in place."The Railers' defense will get up in your face and defend on the corners."We're going to bring a 3-3 stack," Counts said. "I think it's kind of that organized chaos of defense. You'll have guys blitzing from who knows where. We're going to be physical, that's for sure. The kids have been catching onto it fast."NEWTON RAILERS SCHEDULE Sept. 6 @ Maize South Sept. 13 ANDOVER CENTRAL Sept. 20 EISENHOWER Sept. 27 @ Goddard Oct. 4 @ Salina Central Oct. 11 ANDOVER Oct. 18 @ Hutchinson Oct. 25 ARK CITY

🏈 HSFB Preview: Newton

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven High School football team won three games in 2021, four games in 2022 and five games in 2023. The Wildcats look to continue that trend of winning heading into the 2024 season.

"I think the leadership we have out of these seniors is really good," co-head coach Drew Thalmann said. "That's what we had with the crew that went 8-3 in 2020, we had a really good group of seniors. This group we have this year really reminds me of those guys and that's where we've got to start. If you've got good leaders then you can go deep into the playoffs. I think we've got a good group of seniors this year that can lead us there."

Haven is one of the few schools in the state of Kansas with co-head coaches. Thalmann and Thomas Cooprider each have the co-head coach title next to their names.

"I coach the offense and Thomas coaches the defense," Thalmann said. "All of the other stuff we kind of just work together on."&nbsp;

Thalmann is hopeful the team speed will help the Wildcats on offense this year.

"We're going to be pretty fast offensively," Thalmann said. "We had a 4x1 that went to state in the spring, all four are skill position guys we have. We're going to have a lot of team speed. Any one of our skill position guys could take it to the house on any given play."

Thalmann emphasized the team speed will contribute a lot to the defensive success, as well.

Haven opens the season on Sept. 6 at Hillsboro.

"Hillsboro is always a tough first game," Thalmann said. "They're always really athletic and have had our number the last several years. I think we lost to them by three last year."

The Wildcats then host Nickerson in Week 2.

"Nickerson is a county rivalry game," Thalmann said. "It's been fun to play that game again. With us being in class 2A and them in class 3A we didn't have that game, but we've been able to schedule that within the league again."

Thalmann said Garden Plain and Kingman will be games to circle for this years schedule.

"Garden Plain and Kingman at the end of the year will tell us a lot about where we're at," Thalmann said. "Those two are really good teams that we'll see where we're at against."

HAVEN WILDCATS SCHEDULE Sept. 6 @ Hillsboro Sept. 13 NICKERSON Sept. 20 SMOKY VALLEY Sept. 27 @ Douglass Oct. 4 GARDEN PLAIN Oct. 11 @ Belle Plaine Oct. 18 @ Chaparral Oct. 25 KINGMAN

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724773306372.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Haven Wildcats Football" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Haven Wildcats Football</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHAVEN, Kan. — The Haven High School football team won three games in 2021, four games in 2022 and five games in 2023. The Wildcats look to continue that trend of winning heading into the 2024 season."I think the leadership we have out of these seniors is really good," co-head coach Drew Thalmann said. "That's what we had with the crew that went 8-3 in 2020, we had a really good group of seniors. This group we have this year really reminds me of those guys and that's where we've got to start. If you've got good leaders then you can go deep into the playoffs. I think we've got a good group of seniors this year that can lead us there."Haven is one of the few schools in the state of Kansas with co-head coaches. Thalmann and Thomas Cooprider each have the co-head coach title next to their names."I coach the offense and Thomas coaches the defense," Thalmann said. "All of the other stuff we kind of just work together on."&nbsp;Thalmann is hopeful the team speed will help the Wildcats on offense this year."We're going to be pretty fast offensively," Thalmann said. "We had a 4x1 that went to state in the spring, all four are skill position guys we have. We're going to have a lot of team speed. Any one of our skill position guys could take it to the house on any given play."Thalmann emphasized the team speed will contribute a lot to the defensive success, as well.Haven opens the season on Sept. 6 at Hillsboro."Hillsboro is always a tough first game," Thalmann said. "They're always really athletic and have had our number the last several years. I think we lost to them by three last year."The Wildcats then host Nickerson in Week 2."Nickerson is a county rivalry game," Thalmann said. "It's been fun to play that game again. With us being in class 2A and them in class 3A we didn't have that game, but we've been able to schedule that within the league again."Thalmann said Garden Plain and Kingman will be games to circle for this years schedule."Garden Plain and Kingman at the end of the year will tell us a lot about where we're at," Thalmann said. "Those two are really good teams that we'll see where we're at against."HAVEN WILDCATS SCHEDULE Sept. 6 @ Hillsboro Sept. 13 NICKERSON Sept. 20 SMOKY VALLEY Sept. 27 @ Douglass Oct. 4 GARDEN PLAIN Oct. 11 @ Belle Plaine Oct. 18 @ Chaparral Oct. 25 KINGMAN

🏈 HSFB Preview: Haven

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are a few rule changes to watch on Thursday evening when the Hutchinson Community College football team opens the season. The Blue Dragons host New Mexico Military Institute at Gowans Stadium at 6 p.m.

The first rule change to keep an eye on will be the two-minute timeout. Most people are familiar with the Two-Minute Warning at the NFL level, that occurs when the clock strikes 2:00, or any stoppage of play under the two-minute mark.

This past April, the NCAA rules panel approved the addition of the two-minute timeout at the collegiate level. The panel voted in favor of the two-minute stoppage in the second and fourth quarters.

Per the NCAA release, this rule change synchronizes all timing rules, such as 10-second runoffs and stopping the clock when a first down is gained in bounds, which coincides with the two-minute timeout.

HutchCC head coach Drew Dallas on the two-minute timeout and how that will change the game at the junior college level.

"Yeah, I mean obviously it's going to be a huge change for us," Dallas said. "It will change how us coaches call timeouts and manage end of the half and end of the game situations."

The other change you may notice is the use of tablets for players on the sidelines.

The NCAA rules panel approved the option for teams to use tables to view in-game video. The video can include the broadcast feed and camera angles from the coach's sideline and coach's end zone.

Although the NCAA is allowing teams to have up to 18 active tables for use in the coaching booth, sideline and locker room, the KJCCC has established that up to four tablets will be permitted to use.

"I think that's a great rule change for us," KJCCC supervisor of officials Craig Helser said. "It will let our coaches be able to show their players film during the game, so that's a nice rule change."

Dallas also thinks it will be a great addition to the conference this season.

"We'll have a couple in the press box and a couple down on the field for our guys," Dallas said. "Obviously that's going to play a big part in games to identify what teams are doing offensively, defensively and on special teams. I think it will give us a chance to make better in-game adjustments if we use it properly."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699677852140.jpeg" alt="Football 2.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Football 2.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are a few rule changes to watch on Thursday evening when the Hutchinson Community College football team opens the season. The Blue Dragons host New Mexico Military Institute at Gowans Stadium at 6 p.m.The first rule change to keep an eye on will be the two-minute timeout. Most people are familiar with the Two-Minute Warning at the NFL level, that occurs when the clock strikes 2:00, or any stoppage of play under the two-minute mark.This past April, the NCAA rules panel approved the addition of the two-minute timeout at the collegiate level. The panel voted in favor of the two-minute stoppage in the second and fourth quarters.Per the NCAA release, this rule change synchronizes all timing rules, such as 10-second runoffs and stopping the clock when a first down is gained in bounds, which coincides with the two-minute timeout.HutchCC head coach Drew Dallas on the two-minute timeout and how that will change the game at the junior college level."Yeah, I mean obviously it's going to be a huge change for us," Dallas said. "It will change how us coaches call timeouts and manage end of the half and end of the game situations."The other change you may notice is the use of tablets for players on the sidelines.The NCAA rules panel approved the option for teams to use tables to view in-game video. The video can include the broadcast feed and camera angles from the coach's sideline and coach's end zone.Although the NCAA is allowing teams to have up to 18 active tables for use in the coaching booth, sideline and locker room, the KJCCC has established that up to four tablets will be permitted to use."I think that's a great rule change for us," KJCCC supervisor of officials Craig Helser said. "It will let our coaches be able to show their players film during the game, so that's a nice rule change."Dallas also thinks it will be a great addition to the conference this season."We'll have a couple in the press box and a couple down on the field for our guys," Dallas said. "Obviously that's going to play a big part in games to identify what teams are doing offensively, defensively and on special teams. I think it will give us a chance to make better in-game adjustments if we use it properly."