By ROD ZOOK <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>

HUTCHINSON — The 
Cosmosphere hopes that the approaching spring break will continue the 
strong flow of visitors to the space museum. The Cosmosphere just 
recently completed a renovation of a portion of the Hall of Space 
Museum, which opened to the public this winter.

“The story of the 
space race and the development of the technology to explore space is 
told with a better chronology and a better visitor flow,” Maria Kelson 
of the Cosmosphere said.&nbsp;

The tour still begins in the V-2 area as
 it has before but has more space and better lighting. It also has 
several new artifacts from the space race including a better view of one
 of the Cosmosphere's more popular artifacts and two small items that 
carried a big significance in the space race.

“You can walk almost 360 degrees around the flight-ready backup of Sputnik that we have so you can get just right up-close and personal with our Sputnik,” Kelson said. “Another thing I’m excited about, there are slide rules (Wernher) von Braun and (Sergei) Korolev on display.”

It was von Braun who led the American space program after WWII and 
helped with the design of the Saturn V rocket that got America to the 
moon ahead of the Russians. Korolev was the mastermind behind the Soviet
 space program and was the leader of many firsts for the program in the 
early years of the Cold War.

Shannon Wetzel is the curator for the
 many artifacts that are in the Cosmosphere’s possession and says the 
renovation of the V-2 area is exciting since it is the oldest area of 
the museum. She also wants to make sure in the modern STEM environment 
for students that the historic significance of space flight isn’t 
forgotten.

“STEM came from somewhere and you can come down here and see the 
history of it,” Wetzel said. “The story of the space race as it fits 
into the Cold War is such a crucial part of our history.”

The 
expansion also includes the new interactive area called CosmoKids and a 
more open and expanded Bell X-1 display. The Bell X-1 plane carried 
General Chuck Yeager to the first flight beyond the sound barrier.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646343885600.jpeg" alt="The expansion includes easier-to-read boards telling the history of the space race and those involved." />
 <figcaption>The expansion includes easier-to-read boards telling the history of the space race and those involved.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — The 
Cosmosphere hopes that the approaching spring break will continue the 
strong flow of visitors to the space museum. The Cosmosphere just 
recently completed a renovation of a portion of the Hall of Space 
Museum, which opened to the public this winter.“The story of the 
space race and the development of the technology to explore space is 
told with a better chronology and a better visitor flow,” Maria Kelson 
of the Cosmosphere said.&nbsp;The tour still begins in the V-2 area as
 it has before but has more space and better lighting. It also has 
several new artifacts from the space race including a better view of one
 of the Cosmosphere's more popular artifacts and two small items that 
carried a big significance in the space race.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646405128537.jpeg" alt="The renovation allows for visitors to see some of the space artifacts up-close, including the Sputnik display." />
 <figcaption>The renovation allows for visitors to see some of the space artifacts up-close, including the Sputnik display.</figcaption>
 </figure>“You can walk almost 360 degrees around the flight-ready backup of Sputnik that we have so you can get just right up-close and personal with our Sputnik,” Kelson said. “Another thing I’m excited about, there are slide rules (Wernher) von Braun and (Sergei) Korolev on display.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646405162672.jpeg" alt="The slide rules that belonged to Wernher von Braun, who led the American space race, and Sergei Korolev, who led the Soviet space program." />
 <figcaption>The slide rules that belonged to Wernher von Braun, who led the American space race, and Sergei Korolev, who led the Soviet space program.</figcaption>
 </figure>It was von Braun who led the American space program after WWII and 
helped with the design of the Saturn V rocket that got America to the 
moon ahead of the Russians. Korolev was the mastermind behind the Soviet
 space program and was the leader of many firsts for the program in the 
early years of the Cold War.Shannon Wetzel is the curator for the
 many artifacts that are in the Cosmosphere’s possession and says the 
renovation of the V-2 area is exciting since it is the oldest area of 
the museum. She also wants to make sure in the modern STEM environment 
for students that the historic significance of space flight isn’t 
forgotten.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646405192699.jpeg" alt="The V-2 display, which kicks off the tour of the space museum is more open and brighter, with easier-to-read plaques that tell the history of the German rocket." />
 <figcaption>The V-2 display, which kicks off the tour of the space museum is more open and brighter, with easier-to-read plaques that tell the history of the German rocket.</figcaption>
 </figure>“STEM came from somewhere and you can come down here and see the 
history of it,” Wetzel said. “The story of the space race as it fits 
into the Cold War is such a crucial part of our history.”The 
expansion also includes the new interactive area called CosmoKids and a 
more open and expanded Bell X-1 display. The Bell X-1 plane carried 
General Chuck Yeager to the first flight beyond the sound barrier.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646405226264.jpeg" alt="The area at the opening of the renovation features a replica of the Bell X-1 aircraft that broke the sound barrier. The area is much more open than before." />
 <figcaption>The area at the opening of the renovation features a replica of the Bell X-1 aircraft that broke the sound barrier. The area is much more open than before.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Cosmosphere renovation let visitors get up close to history

By NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>

HUTCHINSON — The 
Hutchinson Regional Academy is a paid internship program for a small 
group of Reno County high school students.

"We end up with ten 
students final, but we have a good, good response from the schools," 
said Carey Craig, Human Resources Director with Hutchinson Regional 
Healthcare System. "We go through an interview and selection process and
 it's tough getting down to those ten. There's a lot of sharp kids out 
there."

To be considered an applicant must live in Reno County, be
 at least 16 years old, have completed 10th, 11th or 12th grade by May 
31, be enrolled in a Reno County high school and have an overall and 
science GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale or 4.0 on a 5.0 scale.

"It 
actually runs Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8 in the morning to 2:30
 in the afternoon," Craig said. "It's a paid internship and it runs from
 May 31 through July 22."

This is the tenth year of this important
 initiative to help get the next generation of professionals for 
Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System.

"With the labor market, we 
have to grow our own," Craig said. "It starts in high school. It's an 
investment of time for us and we find generally, a lot of kids, when 
they think about hospitals, they think about doctors and nurses. This is
 really an opportunity to learn about the lab, learn about pharmacy and 
imaging and a lot of different opportunities. we find kids that will 
start out at the end of May with one thing in mind and come up with a 
completely different perspective at the end of the course."

Craig 
noted that there is one recent academy alum who is working as a 
phlebotomist while they are in school. The program ends with an 
opportunity for two of the students to receive scholarships in exchange 
for a commitment to work at HRMC for a year after graduation. The 
application deadline is March 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583428390224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — The 
Hutchinson Regional Academy is a paid internship program for a small 
group of Reno County high school students."We end up with ten 
students final, but we have a good, good response from the schools," 
said Carey Craig, Human Resources Director with Hutchinson Regional 
Healthcare System. "We go through an interview and selection process and
 it's tough getting down to those ten. There's a lot of sharp kids out 
there."To be considered an applicant must live in Reno County, be
 at least 16 years old, have completed 10th, 11th or 12th grade by May 
31, be enrolled in a Reno County high school and have an overall and 
science GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale or 4.0 on a 5.0 scale."It 
actually runs Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8 in the morning to 2:30
 in the afternoon," Craig said. "It's a paid internship and it runs from
 May 31 through July 22."This is the tenth year of this important
 initiative to help get the next generation of professionals for 
Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System."With the labor market, we 
have to grow our own," Craig said. "It starts in high school. It's an 
investment of time for us and we find generally, a lot of kids, when 
they think about hospitals, they think about doctors and nurses. This is
 really an opportunity to learn about the lab, learn about pharmacy and 
imaging and a lot of different opportunities. we find kids that will 
start out at the end of May with one thing in mind and come up with a 
completely different perspective at the end of the course."Craig 
noted that there is one recent academy alum who is working as a 
phlebotomist while they are in school. The program ends with an 
opportunity for two of the students to receive scholarships in exchange 
for a commitment to work at HRMC for a year after graduation. The 
application deadline is March 23.

Hutch program looks to create next generation of hospital workers

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran believes energy independence is key for the United States and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine brings that need to the forefront.

"I had a conversation with Sen. Schumer, the majority leader about this topic already today," Moran said Thursday. "The question is, can we change Biden administration policy that is opposed to fossil fuels and has taken significant steps to reduce the ability for the United States to be energy independent. Can we open up America for more exploration and drilling? What about the Keystone pipeline? Can we get greater refining capacity in the United States?"

The U.S. right now is still taking in Russian oil.

"We purchase about 700,000 barrels of oil and oil products from Russia every day," Moran said. "While we're giving aid on one hand to the Ukrainians to fight the Russians, it would also make a lot of sense to take away the resources that Russia has to engage in this battle. Oil markets are where they gain their most foreign currency."

Cutting the U.S. off immediately would result in some pain at the pump, and it isn't clear how much that might be, but it appears to Moran that the American people are willing to help.

"It would be painful for another dollar a gallon of gas," Moran said. "There is a price to be paid and we have to be willing to bear the burden. This is a time for our country to be united."

Moran is in favor of renewable fuels, as well, but those solutions won't come quickly enough to hit Russia in the wallet immediately the way an oil embargo would.

NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran believes energy independence is key for the United States and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine brings that need to the forefront."I had a conversation with Sen. Schumer, the majority leader about this topic already today," Moran said Thursday. "The question is, can we change Biden administration policy that is opposed to fossil fuels and has taken significant steps to reduce the ability for the United States to be energy independent. Can we open up America for more exploration and drilling? What about the Keystone pipeline? Can we get greater refining capacity in the United States?"The U.S. right now is still taking in Russian oil."We purchase about 700,000 barrels of oil and oil products from Russia every day," Moran said. "While we're giving aid on one hand to the Ukrainians to fight the Russians, it would also make a lot of sense to take away the resources that Russia has to engage in this battle. Oil markets are where they gain their most foreign currency."Cutting the U.S. off immediately would result in some pain at the pump, and it isn't clear how much that might be, but it appears to Moran that the American people are willing to help."It would be painful for another dollar a gallon of gas," Moran said. "There is a price to be paid and we have to be willing to bear the burden. This is a time for our country to be united."Moran is in favor of renewable fuels, as well, but those solutions won't come quickly enough to hit Russia in the wallet immediately the way an oil embargo would.

Moran: Energy independence key in light of Russia-Ukraine conflict

By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post

According to University of Kansas Law Brenneisen Distinguished Professor Raj Bhala, the choice by the European Union that was confirmed Wednesday to remove some Russian banks from SWIFT is cutting them off from the majority of trade with the world.

"Payment for normal trade transactions, by which Russia receives import revenues, those payments will not be processed by SWIFT," Bhala said. "The SWIFT banks are saying we will not deal with a designated list of major Russian banks. We'll not accept their payments. Those are the very banks that Russia has been using to make or receive payments for trade and investment transactions."

Two major Russian banks that process energy payments were not included in Wednesday's order.

"Banks will not have access to a large portion of its foreign exchange reserves," Bhala said. "Russia's got about $630 billion of hard currency in foreign exchange reserves. Those are in banks overseas. The Russian ruble is crashing."

The exchange rate as of midday Wednesday was at 105 rubles to the US Dollar.

"The denial of access to the SWIFT system is really, to me, the core sanction that is taking aim at Russia's fortress economy."

SWIFT is used by more than 11,000 financial institutions across the globe.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579783750382.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostAccording to University of Kansas Law Brenneisen Distinguished Professor Raj Bhala, the choice by the European Union that was confirmed Wednesday to remove some Russian banks from SWIFT is cutting them off from the majority of trade with the world."Payment for normal trade transactions, by which Russia receives import revenues, those payments will not be processed by SWIFT," Bhala said. "The SWIFT banks are saying we will not deal with a designated list of major Russian banks. We'll not accept their payments. Those are the very banks that Russia has been using to make or receive payments for trade and investment transactions."Two major Russian banks that process energy payments were not included in Wednesday's order."Banks will not have access to a large portion of its foreign exchange reserves," Bhala said. "Russia's got about $630 billion of hard currency in foreign exchange reserves. Those are in banks overseas. The Russian ruble is crashing."The exchange rate as of midday Wednesday was at 105 rubles to the US Dollar."The denial of access to the SWIFT system is really, to me, the core sanction that is taking aim at Russia's fortress economy."SWIFT is used by more than 11,000 financial institutions across the globe.

KU professor: SWIFT system removal is 'core sanction' against Russia

Bhala: SWIFT payment system removal is 'core sanction' against Russia

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A preliminary hearing is set for April 7th for the man arrested in connection with the abduction and shooting in Reno and Sedgwick County July 19.

Kamden Campos is facing 12 counts including six counts of attempted first degree murder one count of kidnapping, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of criminal threat.&nbsp;

The six counts of attempted murder and the single kidnapping carry sentences of up to 55 years in prison if Campos is convicted.&nbsp;

Campos was arrested after allegedly abducting a woman and her family in Wichita. They drove out to Cheney Lake. When the woman tried to escape in a vehicle Campos allegedly shot at the vehicle hitting a 2-year-old girl.&nbsp;

The woman drove into Sedgwick County where she called 911. The child was taken to Wesley Medical Center where she underwent surgery and has recovered.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646063022103.jpeg" alt="Campos-photo Hutchison Police" />
 <figcaption>Campos-photo Hutchison Police</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A preliminary hearing is set for April 7th for the man arrested in connection with the abduction and shooting in Reno and Sedgwick County July 19.Kamden Campos is facing 12 counts including six counts of attempted first degree murder one count of kidnapping, three counts of aggravated battery and two counts of criminal threat.&nbsp;The six counts of attempted murder and the single kidnapping carry sentences of up to 55 years in prison if Campos is convicted.&nbsp;Campos was arrested after allegedly abducting a woman and her family in Wichita. They drove out to Cheney Lake. When the woman tried to escape in a vehicle Campos allegedly shot at the vehicle hitting a 2-year-old girl.&nbsp;The woman drove into Sedgwick County where she called 911. The child was taken to Wesley Medical Center where she underwent surgery and has recovered.

Preliminary hearing set for abduction, shooting of Kan. toddler 

By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A new online pharmacy from the owner of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team and star of TV's Shark Tank, Mark Cuban is hoping to make prescriptions cheaper through competition. 

The <a href="https://costplusdrugs.com/">Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company</a> offers more than 100 generic drugs, which according the company, are priced at the costs of making them, plus a 15 percent markup and a $3 pharmacy fee and $5 for shipping.

Free market policy expert Phil Kerpen with American Commitment is glad to see competition, though he admits it is limited.

"The good thing is, you can shop around," Kerpen said. "Maybe there are some things that are better from your local pharmacy and your insurance and some things that are better with what Cuban's doing, but the point, which is really going to open a lot of eyes is, we've built an extremely complex and confusing system for distributing prescription drugs."

It's important to note that name brand medicines are not available and you have to pay the whole price out of pocket.

"The pharmacy benefit managers in theory represent the buyers, the pharmacies," Kerpen said. "They should be negotiating for lower prices. They often don't negotiate for lower prices from the manufacturer. Instead they say, give us a higher price and give us a large rebate. Then we can charge the senior or the consumer at the point of sale a copay or a deductible based on the very high list price and we can divert the rebates to our bottom line. In any other government program besides Medicare Part D, that would be an illegal kickback, but in Medicare Part D, they have an exemption from the federal anti-kickback statute."

True pricing for drugs is the first step in saving everyone money. 

"When you actually have a real cash price that was negotiated to be a low price rather than a high price with a high rebate that someone else pockets, a lot of times it's lower than what you're paying with insurance."

President Donald Trump tried to get rebates passed on from pharmacy benefit managers to customers at the point of sale, but that move was ultimately blocked. Current legislative leadership wants to control drug prices through charging high fees to drug makers who don't agree to negotiate prices with the government.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581346070421.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A new online pharmacy from the owner of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team and star of TV's Shark Tank, Mark Cuban is hoping to make prescriptions cheaper through competition. The <a href="https://costplusdrugs.com/">Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company</a> offers more than 100 generic drugs, which according the company, are priced at the costs of making them, plus a 15 percent markup and a $3 pharmacy fee and $5 for shipping. Free market policy expert Phil Kerpen with American Commitment is glad to see competition, though he admits it is limited."The good thing is, you can shop around," Kerpen said. "Maybe there are some things that are better from your local pharmacy and your insurance and some things that are better with what Cuban's doing, but the point, which is really going to open a lot of eyes is, we've built an extremely complex and confusing system for distributing prescription drugs."It's important to note that name brand medicines are not available and you have to pay the whole price out of pocket."The pharmacy benefit managers in theory represent the buyers, the pharmacies," Kerpen said. "They should be negotiating for lower prices. They often don't negotiate for lower prices from the manufacturer. Instead they say, give us a higher price and give us a large rebate. Then we can charge the senior or the consumer at the point of sale a copay or a deductible based on the very high list price and we can divert the rebates to our bottom line. In any other government program besides Medicare Part D, that would be an illegal kickback, but in Medicare Part D, they have an exemption from the federal anti-kickback statute."True pricing for drugs is the first step in saving everyone money. "When you actually have a real cash price that was negotiated to be a low price rather than a high price with a high rebate that someone else pockets, a lot of times it's lower than what you're paying with insurance."President Donald Trump tried to get rebates passed on from pharmacy benefit managers to customers at the point of sale, but that move was ultimately blocked. Current legislative leadership wants to control drug prices through charging high fees to drug makers who don't agree to negotiate prices with the government.

Kerpen: New pharmacy from Mark Cuban limited, but positive idea

By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post


HUTCHINSON — 
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt introduced legislation in the Kansas House this week to create a state law blocking local municipal governments from adopting rules against cooperation with federal law enforcement investigating illegal immigrants. 

This is in response to action by the Unified Government of Wyandotte County earlier this month that would have chilled any police response. Schmidt spoke to Hutch Post earlier this month about the issue after the local action and before the bill introduction.

"It doesn't entirely bar [cooperation]," Schmidt said. "They put a lot of wiggle words in there. It really does impede, restrict, it's clearly designed to tell the local police, you're not supposed to working with federal immigration authorities."

Another potential pitfall of the Wyandotte County action is creating photo identification for undocumented residents. The reason this could be a problem is because of the way some state statutes are worded.

"There are lots of things that you have to have government identification for under state law," Schmidt said. "We presuppose that if you have that government identification, it proves you're a citizen."

House Bill 2717 would attempt to address that issue by making clear that any local ID is not valid for State ID purposes. The bill has been referred to the House Federal and State Affairs committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629113022641.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON — 
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt introduced legislation in the Kansas House this week to create a state law blocking local municipal governments from adopting rules against cooperation with federal law enforcement investigating illegal immigrants. This is in response to action by the Unified Government of Wyandotte County earlier this month that would have chilled any police response. Schmidt spoke to Hutch Post earlier this month about the issue after the local action and before the bill introduction."It doesn't entirely bar [cooperation]," Schmidt said. "They put a lot of wiggle words in there. It really does impede, restrict, it's clearly designed to tell the local police, you're not supposed to working with federal immigration authorities."Another potential pitfall of the Wyandotte County action is creating photo identification for undocumented residents. The reason this could be a problem is because of the way some state statutes are worded."There are lots of things that you have to have government identification for under state law," Schmidt said. "We presuppose that if you have that government identification, it proves you're a citizen."House Bill 2717 would attempt to address that issue by making clear that any local ID is not valid for State ID purposes. The bill has been referred to the House Federal and State Affairs committee.

Schmidt introduces bill to clarify immigration, local ID response

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Gas prices are still well above $3 a gallon, with no real relief in sight.

"Kansas average today is $3.21 a gallon," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's up four cents from a week ago and up 22 cents in the last month. Reno County is even higher than the state average."

The Reno County average is $3.28 a gallon, with gas ranging from 3.09 in Arlington to 3.29 in Hutch.

"Anything over $3 gets your attention," Steward said. "We've continued to see those prices rise over the last month or two. Crude oil prices are the big concern right now. They make up 50 to 60% of the price we see at the pump. The big concern in everyone's minds in the oil market right now are the tensions between Ukraine and Russia."

Russia is a large oil producer and any economic sanctions or other supply changes that might come from a potential conflict would likely put further upward pressure on crude oil prices.

"More oil could enter the global market if the United States and Iran are able to complete a new nuclear agreement and sanctions are lifted," Steward said. "That's another potentially positive area that we can look at on the global horizon."

The national gas price average as of Monday is $3.53 a gallon.

By NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Gas prices are still well above $3 a gallon, with no real relief in sight."Kansas average today is $3.21 a gallon," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's up four cents from a week ago and up 22 cents in the last month. Reno County is even higher than the state average."The Reno County average is $3.28 a gallon, with gas ranging from 3.09 in Arlington to 3.29 in Hutch."Anything over $3 gets your attention," Steward said. "We've continued to see those prices rise over the last month or two. Crude oil prices are the big concern right now. They make up 50 to 60% of the price we see at the pump. The big concern in everyone's minds in the oil market right now are the tensions between Ukraine and Russia."Russia is a large oil producer and any economic sanctions or other supply changes that might come from a potential conflict would likely put further upward pressure on crude oil prices."More oil could enter the global market if the United States and Iran are able to complete a new nuclear agreement and sanctions are lifted," Steward said. "That's another potentially positive area that we can look at on the global horizon."The national gas price average as of Monday is $3.53 a gallon.

AAA: Crude oil market still driving gas prices, mostly upward

By ROD ZOOK Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The investigation continues into the three major wildfires that burned areas east of Hutchinson in the past week. All three fires were caused by smoldering brush piles that may not have been properly tended to.&nbsp;

The fires may change the way the county deals with that type of burning.

“There was a committee put together to look at the existing ordinance and if there’s better ways and alternatives&nbsp; to do business with that burn ordinance within Reno County,” Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer said. “That group wrapped up December's meeting with recommendations that are being put together. These recommendations will be presented to the Reno County Board of Commissioners in the near future.”

Beer says that when any type of burning is done it is the responsibility of the landowner to make sure that the smoldering brush pile is tended to until the fire is completely out. He says that there could even be legal action coming to those who are found responsible for such fires:

“It’s the responsibility of the landowner, '' Beer said. “If you’re going to light up 70 brush piles or whatever, you have to maintain them. That’s your responsibility and if they get away from you you’re going to be held liable.”

The county has been pushing to have property owners clear out trees and other debris from the areas prone to wildfires in order to protect their homes and property, but disposing of those trees also adds to the problem if not done properly.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644954584096.jpeg" alt="Photo-Courtesy Grant Wray" />
 <figcaption>Photo-Courtesy Grant Wray</figcaption>
 </figure> By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The investigation continues into the three major wildfires that burned areas east of Hutchinson in the past week. All three fires were caused by smoldering brush piles that may not have been properly tended to.&nbsp;The fires may change the way the county deals with that type of burning.“There was a committee put together to look at the existing ordinance and if there’s better ways and alternatives&nbsp; to do business with that burn ordinance within Reno County,” Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer said. “That group wrapped up December's meeting with recommendations that are being put together. These recommendations will be presented to the Reno County Board of Commissioners in the near future.”Beer says that when any type of burning is done it is the responsibility of the landowner to make sure that the smoldering brush pile is tended to until the fire is completely out. He says that there could even be legal action coming to those who are found responsible for such fires:“It’s the responsibility of the landowner, '' Beer said. “If you’re going to light up 70 brush piles or whatever, you have to maintain them. That’s your responsibility and if they get away from you you’re going to be held liable.”The county has been pushing to have property owners clear out trees and other debris from the areas prone to wildfires in order to protect their homes and property, but disposing of those trees also adds to the problem if not done properly.

Investigation continues into recent Reno County wildfires


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The State of Kansas is still challenging the federal CMS vaccine mandate, but Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt wants help from Gov. Laura Kelly since the mandate has been allowed to go on while the case continues.

"The problem with that, as we've talked about before, is that, especially in small, rural communities, where there's not a large labor pool and where many of these facilities were already in crisis staffing, they were down substantially because they couldn't find people to work there," Schmidt said. "They've lost more during the pandemic from burnout. If the federal government essentially pushes another group of nurses and workers out of those facilities because either they quit or they are terminated because they won't get the shot, the effect is to close some of those facilities or have to shrink their capacity, neither of which is good for access to care in our rural communities."

Schmidt wants the Kelly administration to apply for a waiver from the requirements for small facilities in crisis settings.

"There's nothing in the specific mandate that talks about waivers," Schmidt said. "There is general authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to, in effect, grant waivers, to provide relief from regulatory requirements, if there are certain findings, such as the requirements are going to result in damaging health care access in particular markets."

Governors in West Virginia, Virginia and Montana have asked CMS for this flexibility. Those states all have Republican governors.

"We know we disagree with the Biden administration and they disagree with us," Schmidt said. "That will have to play out in court in the big picture. Surely, we can agree that in some of these very small communities where the choice is either allow a small number of unvaccinated staff to work or your facility is going to shut down temporarily or permanently and then everybody in a nursing home is out of a place to live, everybody in the community has no access to health care, surely, in those crisis situations, we can agree that the secretary should exercise that discretion and allow more flexibility."

CMS has not appeared to budge on the mandate anywhere at this point.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643166827968.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The State of Kansas is still challenging the federal CMS vaccine mandate, but Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt wants help from Gov. Laura Kelly since the mandate has been allowed to go on while the case continues."The problem with that, as we've talked about before, is that, especially in small, rural communities, where there's not a large labor pool and where many of these facilities were already in crisis staffing, they were down substantially because they couldn't find people to work there," Schmidt said. "They've lost more during the pandemic from burnout. If the federal government essentially pushes another group of nurses and workers out of those facilities because either they quit or they are terminated because they won't get the shot, the effect is to close some of those facilities or have to shrink their capacity, neither of which is good for access to care in our rural communities."Schmidt wants the Kelly administration to apply for a waiver from the requirements for small facilities in crisis settings."There's nothing in the specific mandate that talks about waivers," Schmidt said. "There is general authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to, in effect, grant waivers, to provide relief from regulatory requirements, if there are certain findings, such as the requirements are going to result in damaging health care access in particular markets."Governors in West Virginia, Virginia and Montana have asked CMS for this flexibility. Those states all have Republican governors."We know we disagree with the Biden administration and they disagree with us," Schmidt said. "That will have to play out in court in the big picture. Surely, we can agree that in some of these very small communities where the choice is either allow a small number of unvaccinated staff to work or your facility is going to shut down temporarily or permanently and then everybody in a nursing home is out of a place to live, everybody in the community has no access to health care, surely, in those crisis situations, we can agree that the secretary should exercise that discretion and allow more flexibility."CMS has not appeared to budge on the mandate anywhere at this point.

Schmidt wants Kelly to ask CMS for vaccine mandate waiver

By NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post HUTCHINSON — The supply chain issues that have rippled across the economy have hit some of Kansas smallest residents, as well, as certain types of baby formula have been hard to come by.

"We are hearing from several families that they are not able to find certain kinds of formula on the shelf," said Heather Peterson, Reno and McPherson County WIC Coordinator. "One of the things that WIC has the capability to do then, is just to change the baby's formula. A lot of times, we make changes in their formula when babies are first born and their tummies are just a little bit more tender. Then, as they get just a little bit older, we can try them back on another formula and they do just fine on it."

There are some babies that have digestive issues that require special formula. WIC does its best to help in those situations, too.

"Fortunately, WIC has the opportunity to tailor food packages with like a hundred different formulas," Peterson said. "While not every formula is appropriate for every single baby, we do have the opportunity to maybe switch to a different formula that would be really similar to the type that the baby is on right now. Another option that we've done, is we've got the capability to, if right now, they are buying it in the powder form, which is the least expensive way, but it is available in the liquid form, we would be able to make that substitution, for this short term. If the pharmacy is able to get that special formula in a different form, then we would be able to make that switch as well, right now."

Now that WIC is not doing physical checks, it makes those adjustments easier to make.

"We can actually do the vast majority of things over the phone," Peterson said. "If they've picked up all of their benefits for formula for this month, we could retailor future months of benefits. If they still have some cans of formula on their account that they haven't been able to use, then we can actually tailor that remotely and just change it on their account and they can go to the store and get a new type of formula."

The WIC has offices in most communities and office hours vary. Call them at (785) 826-6603 in Salina, (785) 776-4779 ext. 7661 in Manhattan, (785) 762-5682 in Junction City, (620) 793-1909 in Great Bend and&nbsp;(785) 628-9440 in Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644670916778.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post HUTCHINSON — The supply chain issues that have rippled across the economy have hit some of Kansas smallest residents, as well, as certain types of baby formula have been hard to come by. "We are hearing from several families that they are not able to find certain kinds of formula on the shelf," said Heather Peterson, Reno and McPherson County WIC Coordinator. "One of the things that WIC has the capability to do then, is just to change the baby's formula. A lot of times, we make changes in their formula when babies are first born and their tummies are just a little bit more tender. Then, as they get just a little bit older, we can try them back on another formula and they do just fine on it."There are some babies that have digestive issues that require special formula. WIC does its best to help in those situations, too."Fortunately, WIC has the opportunity to tailor food packages with like a hundred different formulas," Peterson said. "While not every formula is appropriate for every single baby, we do have the opportunity to maybe switch to a different formula that would be really similar to the type that the baby is on right now. Another option that we've done, is we've got the capability to, if right now, they are buying it in the powder form, which is the least expensive way, but it is available in the liquid form, we would be able to make that substitution, for this short term. If the pharmacy is able to get that special formula in a different form, then we would be able to make that switch as well, right now."Now that WIC is not doing physical checks, it makes those adjustments easier to make."We can actually do the vast majority of things over the phone," Peterson said. "If they've picked up all of their benefits for formula for this month, we could retailor future months of benefits. If they still have some cans of formula on their account that they haven't been able to use, then we can actually tailor that remotely and just change it on their account and they can go to the store and get a new type of formula."The WIC has offices in most communities and office hours vary. Call them at (785) 826-6603 in Salina, (785) 776-4779 ext. 7661 in Manhattan, (785) 762-5682 in Junction City, (620) 793-1909 in Great Bend and&nbsp;(785) 628-9440 in Hays.

Formula shortages causing WIC to need flexibility

The former Kansas Department of Health and Environment secretary expressed his opinion on the actions of the Kansas Senate from the past couple of days on Tuesday. 

He didn't use his name, but Dr. Lee Norman appeared to call out Hutchinson's Sen. Dr. Mark Steffen.

Hutch Post reached out to Norman for an interview so he could further clarify his comments. 

He declined, only saying on the record,&nbsp;"I cannot figure out why his GOP colleagues are not reeling him in.  It's almost like they're afraid of him."

Norman was removed as Secretary by Gov. Laura Kelly's administration for commenting on issues beyond what was authorized by her office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599677747477.png" alt="Lee Norman--Photo from Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Lee Norman--Photo from Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>The former Kansas Department of Health and Environment secretary expressed his opinion on the actions of the Kansas Senate from the past couple of days on Tuesday. He didn't use his name, but Dr. Lee Norman appeared to call out Hutchinson's Sen. Dr. Mark Steffen.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">I pray that the KS House stops the Senate gerrymanderers from selling their souls to the charlatans pushing pre-vaccination Medieval veterinary medicine on them and on Kansans. Don&#39;t trust him. It isn&#39;t worth selling your souls for. Or for sacrificing your constituents. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a>&mdash; Lee A. Norman (@LeeNormanMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeeNormanMD/status/1491239791781834752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>Hutch Post reached out to Norman for an interview so he could further clarify his comments. He declined, only saying on the record,&nbsp;"I cannot figure out why his GOP colleagues are not reeling him in. It's almost like they're afraid of him."Norman was removed as Secretary by Gov. Laura Kelly's administration for commenting on issues beyond what was authorized by her office.

Former KDHE Secretary encourages Kan. House to defeat Congresssional map 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann sees China as a risk to the security of the United States.

"I just think we have to realize that China is not our friend," Mann said. "They are our adversary. You look at what they are doing around the world, you look at how they are unabashedly promoting their interests, you look at their human rights abuses, I think we've got to acknowledge that really, for the rest of this century, the debt and China are our two big adversaries."

That doesn't mean we still shouldn't sell them food and they shouldn't sell us other products, but it's a balance that bears watching and that China hasn't kept its end of the bargain.

"Really, I'm frustrated to see that the phase one China trade deal has now transitioned to phase two," Mann said. "You look back over the last two years and they were short $16 billion on their commitments to buy our ag products. There's got to be accountability there. There also has to be accountability on the intellectual property that they steal and some of the things that they are doing on the world stage."

Mann doesn't have answers for why China didn't spend what they said they would, especially since the weak dollar has made overseas exports, of grain in particular, more competitive.

"That's the question that we're asking," Mann said. "We've been raising this on the floor. We've been raising this at committee. That's exactly the question we're asking. What is the administration's plan to work to make up that difference? Every indication is that as China's economy transforms, they are moving toward commercial hog operations, confined hog feeding, which is a good thing for us, which means they are going to need more sorghum and other commodities that we grow here, but why they've not met their commitments. Those are the questions we're asking right now to try to get to the bottom of it."

Mann opposed the COMPETES Act that passed the House earlier this month due, at least in part, to those concerns about concessions to China.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611747599085.png" alt="Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann" />
 <figcaption>Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann sees China as a risk to the security of the United States."I just think we have to realize that China is not our friend," Mann said. "They are our adversary. You look at what they are doing around the world, you look at how they are unabashedly promoting their interests, you look at their human rights abuses, I think we've got to acknowledge that really, for the rest of this century, the debt and China are our two big adversaries."That doesn't mean we still shouldn't sell them food and they shouldn't sell us other products, but it's a balance that bears watching and that China hasn't kept its end of the bargain."Really, I'm frustrated to see that the phase one China trade deal has now transitioned to phase two," Mann said. "You look back over the last two years and they were short $16 billion on their commitments to buy our ag products. There's got to be accountability there. There also has to be accountability on the intellectual property that they steal and some of the things that they are doing on the world stage."Mann doesn't have answers for why China didn't spend what they said they would, especially since the weak dollar has made overseas exports, of grain in particular, more competitive."That's the question that we're asking," Mann said. "We've been raising this on the floor. We've been raising this at committee. That's exactly the question we're asking. What is the administration's plan to work to make up that difference? Every indication is that as China's economy transforms, they are moving toward commercial hog operations, confined hog feeding, which is a good thing for us, which means they are going to need more sorghum and other commodities that we grow here, but why they've not met their commitments. Those are the questions we're asking right now to try to get to the bottom of it."Mann opposed the COMPETES Act that passed the House earlier this month due, at least in part, to those concerns about concessions to China.

Kan. First District Congressman: China is not our friend

HUTCHINSON — The granddaughter of one of the great explorers was the first speaker of the 2022 Dillon Lecture Series.

But
 Céline Cousteau, whose grandfather Jacques Cousteau brought adventure 
to the television world in the '60s and '70s, has a very different 
approach and outlook to all of her travels. Cousteau spoke about 
exploration and the impact it has had on the world both good and bad. 
Cousteau says, while she did get to be a part of her grandfather’s 
adventures, she had the opportunity to go her own direction.

“Obviously
 I grew up in a family of environmentalists and explorers, so that 
influenced my life at home and just the way I see the world,” Cousteau 
said. “But my family never forced me into doing what I do now.”

Cousteau’s
 travels have taken her to some of the most remote areas of the world, 
including numerous trips to Brazil. She says people all around the world
 thrive for the same basic wants and needs.

“The basic needs you 
know are food, water, lodging and love, I don’t think we give enough 
value to that,” Cousteau said. “A sense of belonging is also something 
we’re searching for and I think in this modern world we have moved 
somewhat away from that. Not just the nuclear family, but a sense of 
tribe and a sense of community.”

Cousteau says that each place she
 visits has a special feel and look, offering her first look at a Kansas
 sunset and how spectacular it was.

“I think it’s just over the 
course of time, you see that same thing over and over again and you lose
 appreciation for it because it becomes commonplace,” Cousteau said.” I 
lived in the northeast United States for a long time and it just seemed 
to me that nature was bountiful, it was always beautiful and it was 
always out there. Then I moved to New Mexico . . . boy, what’s here? 
Then I saw the sun set, then the rocks changed colors every 10 minutes. 
So I think it’s just a question of perception.”

As far as 
exploration and the cost and impact it has had on indigenous people and 
the environment, Cousteau says that since her grandfather's incredible 
explorations, more knowledge and planning goes into any trip she takes.

“You
 have to go back to the 1950s when we were starting to take off, we 
didn’t have a lot of hindsight as to what the impact was,” Cousteau 
said. “Through the years, what was being documented is an understanding 
that our going anywhere has an impact from the act of going there to 
being there. We now have much more information on how to do that 
thoughtfully, or at all.”

During her presentation, Cousteau shared
 stories of the places and people she’s met on her vast explorations. 
She says she has hopes of fostering cross-cultural communication and 
connecting everyone’s collective experience as one human tribe.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644422672740.jpeg" alt="Céline Cousteau / Courtesy Hutch Post" />
 <figcaption>Céline Cousteau / Courtesy Hutch Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — The granddaughter of one of the great explorers was the first speaker of the 2022 Dillon Lecture Series.But
 Céline Cousteau, whose grandfather Jacques Cousteau brought adventure 
to the television world in the '60s and '70s, has a very different 
approach and outlook to all of her travels. Cousteau spoke about 
exploration and the impact it has had on the world both good and bad. 
Cousteau says, while she did get to be a part of her grandfather’s 
adventures, she had the opportunity to go her own direction.“Obviously
 I grew up in a family of environmentalists and explorers, so that 
influenced my life at home and just the way I see the world,” Cousteau 
said. “But my family never forced me into doing what I do now.”Cousteau’s
 travels have taken her to some of the most remote areas of the world, 
including numerous trips to Brazil. She says people all around the world
 thrive for the same basic wants and needs.“The basic needs you 
know are food, water, lodging and love, I don’t think we give enough 
value to that,” Cousteau said. “A sense of belonging is also something 
we’re searching for and I think in this modern world we have moved 
somewhat away from that. Not just the nuclear family, but a sense of 
tribe and a sense of community.”Cousteau says that each place she
 visits has a special feel and look, offering her first look at a Kansas
 sunset and how spectacular it was.“I think it’s just over the 
course of time, you see that same thing over and over again and you lose
 appreciation for it because it becomes commonplace,” Cousteau said.” I 
lived in the northeast United States for a long time and it just seemed 
to me that nature was bountiful, it was always beautiful and it was 
always out there. Then I moved to New Mexico . . . boy, what’s here? 
Then I saw the sun set, then the rocks changed colors every 10 minutes. 
So I think it’s just a question of perception.”As far as 
exploration and the cost and impact it has had on indigenous people and 
the environment, Cousteau says that since her grandfather's incredible 
explorations, more knowledge and planning goes into any trip she takes.“You
 have to go back to the 1950s when we were starting to take off, we 
didn’t have a lot of hindsight as to what the impact was,” Cousteau 
said. “Through the years, what was being documented is an understanding 
that our going anywhere has an impact from the act of going there to 
being there. We now have much more information on how to do that 
thoughtfully, or at all.”During her presentation, Cousteau shared
 stories of the places and people she’s met on her vast explorations. 
She says she has hopes of fostering cross-cultural communication and 
connecting everyone’s collective experience as one human tribe.&nbsp;

Cousteau still likes adventure but with a different outlook

By
NICK GOSNELL<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a>


HUTCHINSON — 
A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working.

"For
 years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials
 that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and
 larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. 
"What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new 
valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that 
those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the 
city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to 
tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then 
vote on it."

Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in 
Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can 
blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual 
dollars.

"We will go in and work with any city or county or school
 district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them
 find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind 
inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, 
citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax 
increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their 
budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."

The 
school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund,
 no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall
 budget to comply with that statute.

"That's only part of what 
schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase 
in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by
 reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the 
options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in 
the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."

The 
issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on 
certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items 
and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you 
can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be 
sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities
 in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first 
year of the program.&nbsp;

A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working.

The 
issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on 
certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items 
and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you 
can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be 
sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities
 in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first 
year of the program.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.kansasopengov.org/kog/databank#report_id=94">The results are available at KansasOpenGov.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605883070462.jpeg" alt="Dave Trabert " />
 <figcaption>Dave Trabert </figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a> 
HUTCHINSON — 
A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working."For
 years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials
 that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and
 larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. 
"What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new 
valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that 
those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the 
city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to 
tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then 
vote on it."Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in 
Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can 
blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual 
dollars."We will go in and work with any city or county or school
 district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them
 find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind 
inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, 
citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax 
increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their 
budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."The 
school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund,
 no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall
 budget to comply with that statute."That's only part of what 
schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase 
in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by
 reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the 
options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in 
the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."The 
issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on 
certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items 
and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you 
can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be 
sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities
 in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first 
year of the program.&nbsp;A limited-government advocate says the Truth in Taxation law in Kansas is working."For
 years, people had complained loudly about being told by local officials
 that they were holding the line on property tax, only to get larger and
 larger tax bills," said Dave Trabert with the Kansas Policy Institute. 
"What this legislation does is reduce mill rates. Each year, when new 
valuations come in, the mill levy is automatically reduced, so that 
those valuations deliver the same dollar amount of property tax to the 
city or county. Then, if they want to take in more money, they have to 
tell taxpayers what they want to do and hold a public hearing and then 
vote on it."Trabert pushes back against the idea that Truth in 
Taxation may lose some of its rhetorical force because governments can 
blame inflation for tax increases, since the law is about actual 
dollars."We will go in and work with any city or county or school
 district that says they have no choice," Trabert said. "We'll help them
 find the choice. Sure, there will be people who will hide behind 
inflation and say, we had no choice, but what they are saying is, look, 
citizens, you have inflation and we want to make it worse with a tax 
increase, because government always likes to have citizens adjust their 
budgets so the government officials don't have to do that."The 
school finance law mandates 20 mills per district in their general fund,
 no matter, so a lot of districts believe they have to raise the overall
 budget to comply with that statute."That's only part of what 
schools take in," Trabert said. "They could still offset that increase 
in the 20 mills by reducing what they collect in local option budget, by
 reducing what they collect in capital outlay. Again, they have the 
options. In fact, most school districts have a lot of money sitting in 
the bank from aid they got the prior years and didn't spend."The 
issue there is that general fund dollars are allowed to be spent on 
certain items and LOB can be spent on a different set of certain items 
and capital outlay can be spent on a third set of items, so even if you 
can make cuts in those other areas, it's tough for that to be 
sustainable. Nevertheless, more than half (52%) of governmental entities
 in Kansas were able to hold the line on actual dollars in the first 
year of the program.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.kansasopengov.org/kog/databank#report_id=94">The results are available at KansasOpenGov.org</a>.

Trabert: Truth in Taxation working as intended in Kansas

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss sees the economy's growth slowing as he surveys leadership in the Midwest, but the Federal Reserve has already said it's going to hit the brakes via interest rate increases in 2022.

"The economy is slowing down, but inflation is not," Goss said. "They really need to raise interest rates, which slows the economy down even more. At least, it cools inflationary pressures. This is somewhat like what we saw in the 80s and the latter part of the 70s when we had oil prices increasing inflation, but slowing the economy, so we're right there again."

It hasn't caused a recession, but it is something that bears watching, because inflation is causing its own problems.

"It cuts into everybody's wages," Goss said. "Wages have been growing this year at a pretty good pace. Unfortunately, prices have been growing at an even faster pace. What that does, it reduces the value of the dollar. It makes it very hard for individuals and families and businesses to do any sort of planning."

The one area where a weaker dollar has helped is in agriculture.

Agricultural commodity prices are better, which are very important to Kansas," Goss said. "We're talking about wheat, soybeans, corn, beef and pork, not as much, but still very good agricultural commodity prices. What the weak dollar does, and we've seen a very weakened dollar by the Federal Reserve, that makes our goods more competitively priced abroad, so the Chinese and other nations out there want to buy our products, because they've become relatively cheaper."

The Mid-America Business Conditions Index showed slowing growth in the Midwest region in January.

By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Creighton University economist Ernie Goss sees the economy's growth slowing as he surveys leadership in the Midwest, but the Federal Reserve has already said it's going to hit the brakes via interest rate increases in 2022."The economy is slowing down, but inflation is not," Goss said. "They really need to raise interest rates, which slows the economy down even more. At least, it cools inflationary pressures. This is somewhat like what we saw in the 80s and the latter part of the 70s when we had oil prices increasing inflation, but slowing the economy, so we're right there again."It hasn't caused a recession, but it is something that bears watching, because inflation is causing its own problems."It cuts into everybody's wages," Goss said. "Wages have been growing this year at a pretty good pace. Unfortunately, prices have been growing at an even faster pace. What that does, it reduces the value of the dollar. It makes it very hard for individuals and families and businesses to do any sort of planning."The one area where a weaker dollar has helped is in agriculture.Agricultural commodity prices are better, which are very important to Kansas," Goss said. "We're talking about wheat, soybeans, corn, beef and pork, not as much, but still very good agricultural commodity prices. What the weak dollar does, and we've seen a very weakened dollar by the Federal Reserve, that makes our goods more competitively priced abroad, so the Chinese and other nations out there want to buy our products, because they've become relatively cheaper."The Mid-America Business Conditions Index showed slowing growth in the Midwest region in January.

Goss: Economy slowing, inflation is not

Céline Cousteau is an environmental advocate and filmmaker

<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Via Hutch Post</a>

HUTCHINSON — The Ray and Stella Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community
 College will open its 2022 series with environmentalist and filmmaker 
Céline Cousteau on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Hutchinson 
Sports Arena.

Through the power of storytelling Cousteau uses her 
amazing voyages around the world to offer a thoughtful perspective on 
the connection of the environment, indigenous peoples, &amp; populations
 around the world and how this knowledge is vital to the future of each 
of us on the planet.

As founder of CauseCentric Productions, 
Céline Cousteau is a documentary film director, producer, and presenter,
 creating cause-focused multimedia content. Extending her family legacy 
and her expertise, Céline co-founded The Céline Cousteau Film 
Fellowship, a nonprofit program whose mission is to empower young 
aspiring filmmakers, creatives, and activists to inspire change through 
filmmaking. Having worked on more than 20 documentaries worldwide, 
Céline offers a global perspective through an insider's intimate point 
of view.

Because of her versatility and background in art, she has
 collaborated with companies like Swarovski, London based fashion 
designer Deborah Milner, and New York jewelry designer Susan Foster to 
design jewelry based on the same messages of her environmental and 
humanitarian work. This was another opportunity to extend storytelling 
into another form in order to share the message of interconnectivity 
between humans and the natural world. Thanks to her position in the 
world of ocean conservation, Céline joined the World Economic Forum 
Council on Oceans for two terms. Currently, Céline is ambassador for the
 TreadRight Foundation, sits on the board of directors of the National 
Aquarium in Baltimore, and the advisory boards of The Himalayan 
Consensus and Marine Construction Technologies. With a degree in 
psychology and a masters in Intercultural Relations, she is fluent in 
three languages.

Cousteau is the first second-generation lecturer 
in the Series history; her father, Jean-Michael Cousteau, spoke on 
November 6, 1984.

Tickets to the lecture will be available beginning at 9:45 am the day of the lecture at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

Cousteau
 will appear at a press conference for members of the media prior to the
 lecture. The press conference is scheduled at 9:45 a.m. in the Media 
Interview Room of the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

2022 is the 41st 
season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. For more 
information on the Dillon Lecture Series, or to become a patron, call 
Robin Woodworth at 620-665-3505 or visit the college website at <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644003391324.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Céline Cousteau is an environmental advocate and filmmaker</h2><a href="https://hutchpost.com">Via Hutch Post</a>HUTCHINSON — The Ray and Stella Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community
 College will open its 2022 series with environmentalist and filmmaker 
Céline Cousteau on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Hutchinson 
Sports Arena.Through the power of storytelling Cousteau uses her 
amazing voyages around the world to offer a thoughtful perspective on 
the connection of the environment, indigenous peoples, &amp; populations
 around the world and how this knowledge is vital to the future of each 
of us on the planet.As founder of CauseCentric Productions, 
Céline Cousteau is a documentary film director, producer, and presenter,
 creating cause-focused multimedia content. Extending her family legacy 
and her expertise, Céline co-founded The Céline Cousteau Film 
Fellowship, a nonprofit program whose mission is to empower young 
aspiring filmmakers, creatives, and activists to inspire change through 
filmmaking. Having worked on more than 20 documentaries worldwide, 
Céline offers a global perspective through an insider's intimate point 
of view.Because of her versatility and background in art, she has
 collaborated with companies like Swarovski, London based fashion 
designer Deborah Milner, and New York jewelry designer Susan Foster to 
design jewelry based on the same messages of her environmental and 
humanitarian work. This was another opportunity to extend storytelling 
into another form in order to share the message of interconnectivity 
between humans and the natural world. Thanks to her position in the 
world of ocean conservation, Céline joined the World Economic Forum 
Council on Oceans for two terms. Currently, Céline is ambassador for the
 TreadRight Foundation, sits on the board of directors of the National 
Aquarium in Baltimore, and the advisory boards of The Himalayan 
Consensus and Marine Construction Technologies. With a degree in 
psychology and a masters in Intercultural Relations, she is fluent in 
three languages.Cousteau is the first second-generation lecturer 
in the Series history; her father, Jean-Michael Cousteau, spoke on 
November 6, 1984.Tickets to the lecture will be available beginning at 9:45 am the day of the lecture at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.Cousteau
 will appear at a press conference for members of the media prior to the
 lecture. The press conference is scheduled at 9:45 a.m. in the Media 
Interview Room of the Hutchinson Sports Arena.2022 is the 41st 
season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. For more 
information on the Dillon Lecture Series, or to become a patron, call 
Robin Woodworth at 620-665-3505 or visit the college website at <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://ads.empowerlocal.co/adserve/;MID=181918;type=eligibleimpression;placementID=1658630;setID=524197;channelID=0;CID=0;BID=520548048;TAID=0;place=0;mt=1644007573005726;hc=f80b88b64881274e36e1ad89e73cac813a21ec2f" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
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Granddaughter of Jacques Cousteau will speak in Hutch


HUTCHINSON —&nbsp;Jeremy Hill, the director of the Center for Economic Development 
and Business Research at Wichita State University, is positive about the
 state's economy going forward.

"It kind of came up to three 
categories, how are households doing and they're doing fantastic," Hill 
said. "Businesses, how are they doing? They're complaining, having a lot
 of issues because the market has changed, but the fundamentals are 
still good, they are seeing demand grow, just really not reaching where 
they want and then on the government side, this is a very different 
environment. Home prices are up, which is going to be good for them. 
Retail sales are up and overall population was fairly decent for the 
overall state and for the region. The region declined, but in recent 
years, it's been improving again."

Finding good people is the problem, especially locally.

"We
 are tighter than the U.S. on this labor market," Hill said. "Just in 
Reno County, it's at 3%, but up in McPherson County, it's at 1%. We're 
talking about really low. Everyone's engaged. If we want to grow, we 
need to start really being aggressive right now, before the U.S. gets 
back to their full employment, bringing people in."

"The
 biggest issue for the entire state and this is not just rural, this is 
rural, urban, across the state, is wages," Hill said. "Unlike the U.S., 
we are already back to full employment and even unlike our regional 
states right around us, we went back to full employment. If you want to 
get labor and labor is the biggest issue, increase wages. I tell the 
story all the time, we keep that gap between the U.S. and Kansas and all
 their markets continue to get broader and broader. That's why we had 
outmigration just a few years ago. The opportunities for households were
 better somewhere else, so they got up and left. It didn't mean we 
didn't have jobs. We just weren't competitive."

Hill noted that 
there are some areas where Kansas has a cost of living advantage, but 
that doesn't necessarily overcome lower aggregate wages, unless moving 
from a major metropolitan area. Eighty-seven percent of cities have 
below-average costs of living across the country. The richest 13 percent
 of cities drive up that average.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643910670993.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL<a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a> 
HUTCHINSON —&nbsp;Jeremy Hill, the director of the Center for Economic Development 
and Business Research at Wichita State University, is positive about the
 state's economy going forward."It kind of came up to three 
categories, how are households doing and they're doing fantastic," Hill 
said. "Businesses, how are they doing? They're complaining, having a lot
 of issues because the market has changed, but the fundamentals are 
still good, they are seeing demand grow, just really not reaching where 
they want and then on the government side, this is a very different 
environment. Home prices are up, which is going to be good for them. 
Retail sales are up and overall population was fairly decent for the 
overall state and for the region. The region declined, but in recent 
years, it's been improving again."Finding good people is the problem, especially locally."We
 are tighter than the U.S. on this labor market," Hill said. "Just in 
Reno County, it's at 3%, but up in McPherson County, it's at 1%. We're 
talking about really low. Everyone's engaged. If we want to grow, we 
need to start really being aggressive right now, before the U.S. gets 
back to their full employment, bringing people in."How do you do that, as a business owner?"The
 biggest issue for the entire state and this is not just rural, this is 
rural, urban, across the state, is wages," Hill said. "Unlike the U.S., 
we are already back to full employment and even unlike our regional 
states right around us, we went back to full employment. If you want to 
get labor and labor is the biggest issue, increase wages. I tell the 
story all the time, we keep that gap between the U.S. and Kansas and all
 their markets continue to get broader and broader. That's why we had 
outmigration just a few years ago. The opportunities for households were
 better somewhere else, so they got up and left. It didn't mean we 
didn't have jobs. We just weren't competitive."Hill noted that 
there are some areas where Kansas has a cost of living advantage, but 
that doesn't necessarily overcome lower aggregate wages, unless moving 
from a major metropolitan area. Eighty-seven percent of cities have 
below-average costs of living across the country. The richest 13 percent
 of cities drive up that average.

Kan. economist: Good news on economy, pay needs to increase

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A bill that is making its way through the Kansas Legislature would restrict cell phone usage in vehicles in select situations.

"Senate Bill 332 is what we're referring to as a limited hands-free bill that applies to the most inexperienced drivers and vulnerable bystanders who are at risk," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Specifically, it would ban the hand held use of cell phones for drivers under the age of 18 and then for all drivers who drive through a road construction zone when workers are present or a school zone during designated hours."

The school zone provisions would be at a time when a reduced speed limit is enforced.

"Many vehicles do have the capabilities to use Bluetooth to run your cell phone calls through your audio system in your vehicle," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "If you don't have that available, there are Bluetooth headsets that you can use. All of those would be legal and allow you to still use your cell phone. We're not banning the use of cell phones, we're just trying to get people to really focus their eyes on the road, have their hands on the wheel in these especially risky areas and for the youngest, most inexperienced drivers."

Advocates for this bill have been working on it for years.

"It's sort of a compromise," Steward said. "It doesn't go as far as a full cell phone ban while driving, which some states have. We've been pragmatic. We've worked as part of a large and diverse coalition in support of this bill and we've been working on it for about two years. We feel like this is a good bill, a bill that we think will have some strong support in the legislature."

The fine for a violation is $60, which although it is less than the national average for such violations, is consistent with other Kansas fines for behavior traffic violations. The bill has passed out of committee, but there is not word yet on when it will make it to the floor of the Kansas Senate.

By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A bill that is making its way through the Kansas Legislature would restrict cell phone usage in vehicles in select situations."Senate Bill 332 is what we're referring to as a limited hands-free bill that applies to the most inexperienced drivers and vulnerable bystanders who are at risk," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Specifically, it would ban the hand held use of cell phones for drivers under the age of 18 and then for all drivers who drive through a road construction zone when workers are present or a school zone during designated hours."The school zone provisions would be at a time when a reduced speed limit is enforced."Many vehicles do have the capabilities to use Bluetooth to run your cell phone calls through your audio system in your vehicle," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "If you don't have that available, there are Bluetooth headsets that you can use. All of those would be legal and allow you to still use your cell phone. We're not banning the use of cell phones, we're just trying to get people to really focus their eyes on the road, have their hands on the wheel in these especially risky areas and for the youngest, most inexperienced drivers."Advocates for this bill have been working on it for years."It's sort of a compromise," Steward said. "It doesn't go as far as a full cell phone ban while driving, which some states have. We've been pragmatic. We've worked as part of a large and diverse coalition in support of this bill and we've been working on it for about two years. We feel like this is a good bill, a bill that we think will have some strong support in the legislature."The fine for a violation is $60, which although it is less than the national average for such violations, is consistent with other Kansas fines for behavior traffic violations. The bill has passed out of committee, but there is not word yet on when it will make it to the floor of the Kansas Senate.

Kansas bill would require some hands-free cell phone usage 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Continued strong crude oil prices are hitting Kansans at the gas pump this winter.

"Crude oil prices make up 50 to 60% of that price," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Right now, we're looking at crude oil prices at or above $85 a barrel. That's about $20 higher than what we were seeing in November. That's the reason why, over the last couple of months, we've seen a general trend upward at the pumps."

There's no real relief in sight, either, as Omicron has not stopped people from driving.

"OPEC and its allies, as of now, don't plan any kind of dramatic ramp up of oil output," Steward said. "The result will be continued tight supply of oil. As you can imagine, that should keep gas prices fairly high."

As of Saturday, the state average at $3.07 and the national average at $3.36. The world is also watching to see if Russia is aggressive toward Ukraine and how other nations react if that happens.

"Russia is a large supplier of crude oil," Steward said. "Any interruption in supply, or potential interruption in supply, can drive prices upward. Hopefully, things will be resolved peacefully and we don't have to worry about that, but it's definitely something to keep in mind right now."

By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Continued strong crude oil prices are hitting Kansans at the gas pump this winter."Crude oil prices make up 50 to 60% of that price," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Right now, we're looking at crude oil prices at or above $85 a barrel. That's about $20 higher than what we were seeing in November. That's the reason why, over the last couple of months, we've seen a general trend upward at the pumps."There's no real relief in sight, either, as Omicron has not stopped people from driving."OPEC and its allies, as of now, don't plan any kind of dramatic ramp up of oil output," Steward said. "The result will be continued tight supply of oil. As you can imagine, that should keep gas prices fairly high."As of Saturday, the state average at $3.07 and the national average at $3.36. The world is also watching to see if Russia is aggressive toward Ukraine and how other nations react if that happens."Russia is a large supplier of crude oil," Steward said. "Any interruption in supply, or potential interruption in supply, can drive prices upward. Hopefully, things will be resolved peacefully and we don't have to worry about that, but it's definitely something to keep in mind right now."OPEC+ is scheduled to meet Feb. 2.

AAA: Crude oil prices keeping gas above $3 a gallon in Kansas

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A proposal in the Kansas Legislature introduced by Democrat Jarrod Ousley of Merriam would take the cap for remote learning hours off for schools in Kansas.

"I think the concern is that with the latest round of COVID, school districts have been closing down, often, either a combination of having not enough staff or too many students and simply not operating," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards. "That means, essentially, you make the day up later. The debate, I guess, that we're going to face, is some legislators, clearly the majority that passed this just thought that remote learning is just not adequate and it shouldn't be allowed over a certain level limited threshold."

Given that it was introduced by a minority party member and the makeup of the legislature hasn't fundamentally changed, the chances of it gaining traction are slim, at best.

"Others would argue remote learning can be better than no learning, particularly if it may be an extended period of time," Tallman said. "That doesn't solve all problems, because we still come back to an issue of looking at, depending on why teaching staff may be out, whether they are in a position even to offer remote learning. It would seem to be obvious that there are times when there's quarantining and that kind of issue, so we'll see where this goes. I don't think there's going to be a lot of support among Republican leadership, at least initially."

There are provisions in current law to get exceptions for individual students on a case-by-case basis already.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="Mark Tallman -photo Kansas Association of School Boards" />
 <figcaption>Mark Tallman -photo Kansas Association of School Boards</figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A proposal in the Kansas Legislature introduced by Democrat Jarrod Ousley of Merriam would take the cap for remote learning hours off for schools in Kansas."I think the concern is that with the latest round of COVID, school districts have been closing down, often, either a combination of having not enough staff or too many students and simply not operating," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards. "That means, essentially, you make the day up later. The debate, I guess, that we're going to face, is some legislators, clearly the majority that passed this just thought that remote learning is just not adequate and it shouldn't be allowed over a certain level limited threshold."Given that it was introduced by a minority party member and the makeup of the legislature hasn't fundamentally changed, the chances of it gaining traction are slim, at best."Others would argue remote learning can be better than no learning, particularly if it may be an extended period of time," Tallman said. "That doesn't solve all problems, because we still come back to an issue of looking at, depending on why teaching staff may be out, whether they are in a position even to offer remote learning. It would seem to be obvious that there are times when there's quarantining and that kind of issue, so we'll see where this goes. I don't think there's going to be a lot of support among Republican leadership, at least initially."There are provisions in current law to get exceptions for individual students on a case-by-case basis already.

Tallman: Remote learning proposal in Kan. legislature not going far

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The tax filing season started this week, as the agency attempts a return to normal this year.

"This is just about on time," said Michael Devine with the IRS. "The last couple of years, it's been later when we started processing returns and that's been due to a number of problems, COVID, tax law changes, things that stop us from actually getting started. This is normal. It gives people time to file. Remember that your employers don't have to have your W-2s to you until the end of the month, so you've got plenty of time all the way into April. Just relax. Just because we've started processing doesn't mean you should rush."

In fact, because of a holiday in Washington D.C. that falls on April 15, you have until April 18 to file your federal return. Also, if you have children and received advance payments of the child tax credit, there's a letter you'll need for your taxes.

By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The tax filing season started this week, as the agency attempts a return to normal this year."This is just about on time," said Michael Devine with the IRS. "The last couple of years, it's been later when we started processing returns and that's been due to a number of problems, COVID, tax law changes, things that stop us from actually getting started. This is normal. It gives people time to file. Remember that your employers don't have to have your W-2s to you until the end of the month, so you've got plenty of time all the way into April. Just relax. Just because we've started processing doesn't mean you should rush."In fact, because of a holiday in Washington D.C. that falls on April 15, you have until April 18 to file your federal return. Also, if you have children and received advance payments of the child tax credit, there's a letter you'll need for your taxes."It's a letter from the IRS, it's a 6419," Devine said. "It has the total amount of the advance child tax credit payments that you received during 2021. You're going to need that number to put on your tax return so you can get the other half of the credit. For example, if you have one child under six, the total credit is worth $3600. You could have gotten $1800 in monthly payments last year. Now you get to reconcile what you received with what you are eligible for."In addition, a law designed to reduce fraud for those returns that get tax credits for kids is still in effect that will delay the processing of those returns."We're talking about the PATH Act," Devine said. "It was passed several years ago. It means that some refunds, anyone who is claiming either the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit, your refund will be held until at least February 15. There was a lot of fraud involved with those two credits. The IRS talked to Congress and the law was changed. Now, you have to get your W2s and other information by January 31. That gives the IRS two weeks to actually let the computers crunch the numbers and make sure what's reported on a return for those credits is what we're supposed to be getting."If you have any questions on tax information, the best place to find answers is online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/">irs.gov</a>.