HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will take action on a resolution authorizing needed repairs and renovation to the courthouse during Tuesday's agenda session.&nbsp;

The county was in the process of making renovations to the windows of the courthouse when several earthquakes caused damage to the building.&nbsp;

The interior and exterior repairs to the courthouse are estimated to cost more than $1.1 million, including engineer services. The estimated cost of weatherization and the window replacement projects total more than $2.3 million. Insurance will pay for most of the damage to the courthouse, but that still leaves a sizable amount left to the county.

The county may choose to bond the project and keep cash reserves in place due to the uncertainty of the pandemic-driven economy.

The county hopes to open bids for the projects Sept. 24 and have contracts ready to sign in October.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will take action on a resolution authorizing needed repairs and renovation to the courthouse during Tuesday's agenda session.&nbsp;The county was in the process of making renovations to the windows of the courthouse when several earthquakes caused damage to the building.&nbsp;The interior and exterior repairs to the courthouse are estimated to cost more than $1.1 million, including engineer services. The estimated cost of weatherization and the window replacement projects total more than $2.3 million. Insurance will pay for most of the damage to the courthouse, but that still leaves a sizable amount left to the county.The county may choose to bond the project and keep cash reserves in place due to the uncertainty of the pandemic-driven economy.The county hopes to open bids for the projects Sept. 24 and have contracts ready to sign in October.

Commission to look over resolution for courthouse repairs

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After inching up slightly in July, the unemployment rate fell in Reno County in the month of August as jobs came back following the pandemic shutdown.&nbsp;

The county jobless rate fell from 7% in July to 6.6%. The city’s unemployment rate fell from 7.9% to 7.4%. There were 1,961 residents without work, 185 fewer than July.

According to Tucky Allen with KansasWorks, most of those jobs are in the service sector and companies are having a hard time finding skilled workers again as companies ramp up to pre-pandemic levels.

The state's unemployment rate was also down from 7.2% to 6.9%.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After inching up slightly in July, the unemployment rate fell in Reno County in the month of August as jobs came back following the pandemic shutdown.&nbsp;The county jobless rate fell from 7% in July to 6.6%. The city’s unemployment rate fell from 7.9% to 7.4%. There were 1,961 residents without work, 185 fewer than July.According to Tucky Allen with KansasWorks, most of those jobs are in the service sector and companies are having a hard time finding skilled workers again as companies ramp up to pre-pandemic levels.The state's unemployment rate was also down from 7.2% to 6.9%.

Unemployment numbers rebound

Though COVID-19 has an effect on the nation and world, we know that what's happening here has much more impact. That's why COVID-19: My Story was born.

We'll hear from real people who have had the virus and delve further into their personal experiences.&nbsp; We'll also spend time with experts from here trying to keep you safe.

Episode 3 is with Cathy Kilpatrick

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/681d8c7c-9987-4ddb-a013-375e3c2d5f97">Now, I was there for 11 days and of those 11 days, seven of them, I was in ICU and that was not fun. </a>

Episode 2 is with Hutchinson resident Susan Puls.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/93792258-bf02-427c-823e-968358d705dd">I'm usually very healthy. And the next thing I know, I'm on the floor and the EMT's helped him get me to the testing center. So, it is unlike...everybody thinks it's the flu or a bad cold, or a sinus infection. In my lifetime, I've never experienced anything like this...(Click for full transcript)</a>

Episode 1 is with Dr. Rex Degner from Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/914b38af-8fc5-4ac1-b32d-064c31c08e52">I found out mostly through news sources, commercial news sources, before it started coming out in the professional literature. The COVID virus was first recognized back in late 2019 and gets its name COVID for Coronavirus 2019. So that's when it was first truly discovered as a new entity...(Click for full transcript)</a>

Join us here on HutchPost.com for Covid-19: My Story, with new stories every Saturday. Supported by Reno County Health Care Collaborative.

Are you a COVID-19 patient and want to tell your story on this podcast? Email your contact info and a few sentences about your experience to&nbsp;HutchPost@eagleradio.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599141808019.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Though COVID-19 has an effect on the nation and world, we know that what's happening here has much more impact. That's why COVID-19: My Story was born.We'll hear from real people who have had the virus and delve further into their personal experiences.&nbsp; We'll also spend time with experts from here trying to keep you safe.Episode 3 is with Cathy Kilpatrick<div><iframe title="COVID-19: My Story Episode 3-Cathy Kilpatrick" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/gz5hc-ec1f49?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>Cathy Kilpatrick: <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/681d8c7c-9987-4ddb-a013-375e3c2d5f97">Now, I was there for 11 days and of those 11 days, seven of them, I was in ICU and that was not fun. </a>Episode 2 is with Hutchinson resident Susan Puls.<div><iframe title="COVID-19: My Story Episode 2-Susan Puls" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/g2mas-eb2b24?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>Susan Puls:<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/93792258-bf02-427c-823e-968358d705dd">I'm usually very healthy. And the next thing I know, I'm on the floor and the EMT's helped him get me to the testing center. So, it is unlike...everybody thinks it's the flu or a bad cold, or a sinus infection. In my lifetime, I've never experienced anything like this...(Click for full transcript)</a>Episode 1 is with Dr. Rex Degner from Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System.<div><iframe title="COVID-19: My Story Episode 1-Dr. Rex Degner" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/g5vzv-ea334e?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>Dr. Rex Degner:<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/914b38af-8fc5-4ac1-b32d-064c31c08e52">I found out mostly through news sources, commercial news sources, before it started coming out in the professional literature. The COVID virus was first recognized back in late 2019 and gets its name COVID for Coronavirus 2019. So that's when it was first truly discovered as a new entity...(Click for full transcript)</a>Join us here on HutchPost.com for Covid-19: My Story, with new stories every Saturday. Supported by Reno County Health Care Collaborative.Are you a COVID-19 patient and want to tell your story on this podcast? Email your contact info and a few sentences about your experience to&nbsp;HutchPost@eagleradio.net.

Covid-19: My Story - Weekly Podcast


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County has passed 13 percent of the population having been tested for COVID-19. 

That number is as of late Friday afternoon, prior to the third week of a four week thrust to get asymptomatic people in the county to be tested.

As of Friday afternoon, the county's COVID-19 dashboard has 117 active cases recorded, with just 47 cases at Hutchinson Correctional Facility.

Testing for those without symptoms will be conducted at the Hutchinson Clinic 2107 Building driveway from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday. 

To qualify for testing, you need to be a resident of Reno County, not be a direct contact of someone that has COVID-19, have not tested positive in the last 90 days to COVID-19 and have not been tested in the last 30 days. The county budgeted for 250 tests a week for four weeks in September.

925 people have contracted COVID-19 in Reno County since the beginning of the pandemic, with 805 recovered. Three have died.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County has passed 13 percent of the population having been tested for COVID-19. That number is as of late Friday afternoon, prior to the third week of a four week thrust to get asymptomatic people in the county to be tested.As of Friday afternoon, the county's COVID-19 dashboard has 117 active cases recorded, with just 47 cases at Hutchinson Correctional Facility.Testing for those without symptoms will be conducted at the Hutchinson Clinic 2107 Building driveway from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday. To qualify for testing, you need to be a resident of Reno County, not be a direct contact of someone that has COVID-19, have not tested positive in the last 90 days to COVID-19 and have not been tested in the last 30 days. The county budgeted for 250 tests a week for four weeks in September.925 people have contracted COVID-19 in Reno County since the beginning of the pandemic, with 805 recovered. Three have died.

13 percent of county tested for COVID-19 as of Friday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Arrests were made Friday afternoon in an aggravated robbery case from Tuesday night.

According to Lt. Dustin Loepp with the Hutchinson Police Department, officers were called to the Dillon's parking lot at 1319 North Main at 9:43 p.m. Tuesday. Two victims, 43-year-old Andrew West and 18-year-old Michaelangelo Carter Rogers told police they were approached by a man and woman in the parking lot. West said he was struck on his head with a metal baton and his wallet with contents were forcefully taken.  Rogers was threatened with the baton and his wallet and contents were taken as well but he was not injured.  West received medical treatment at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and was released. 

At 3:35 p.m. Friday, detectives with the Hutchinson Police Department executed a search warrant at 1312 Plaza Way.  Additional property connected to the robbery was seized. 25-year-old Dammion R. Williams and 21-year-old Darianne R. Frischenmeyer were both arrested for two counts of aggravated robbery, one count of aggravated battery and criminal use of a weapon. Bond is set in the case at $81,500.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Arrests were made Friday afternoon in an aggravated robbery case from Tuesday night.According to Lt. Dustin Loepp with the Hutchinson Police Department, officers were called to the Dillon's parking lot at 1319 North Main at 9:43 p.m. Tuesday. Two victims, 43-year-old Andrew West and 18-year-old Michaelangelo Carter Rogers told police they were approached by a man and woman in the parking lot. West said he was struck on his head with a metal baton and his wallet with contents were forcefully taken. Rogers was threatened with the baton and his wallet and contents were taken as well but he was not injured. West received medical treatment at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and was released. At 3:35 p.m. Friday, detectives with the Hutchinson Police Department executed a search warrant at 1312 Plaza Way. Additional property connected to the robbery was seized. 25-year-old Dammion R. Williams and 21-year-old Darianne R. Frischenmeyer were both arrested for two counts of aggravated robbery, one count of aggravated battery and criminal use of a weapon. Bond is set in the case at $81,500.The investigation is ongoing.

Two Hutchinson residents arrested Friday for Tuesday robbery

The criteria that schools in Reno County are using are improving from week to week, but still fall in the yellow zone for next week.

The fourteen-day positive test rate is down to 6% and the 14-day new case count not including the prison is down to 59.

A yellow designation means that on-site learning will continue and activity restrictions will remain in effect. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599043662066.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The criteria that schools in Reno County are using are improving from week to week, but still fall in the yellow zone for next week.The fourteen-day positive test rate is down to 6% and the 14-day new case count not including the prison is down to 59.A yellow designation means that on-site learning will continue and activity restrictions will remain in effect.

Schools will remain in yellow zone for week of September 21-25

NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed six new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:

· A male in his 20s. His source of exposure is unknown.

· A male in his 40s. His source of exposure is unknown.

· A female in her 10s. Her source of exposure is unknown.

· A male in his 60s. He was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county.

· A female in her 30s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county.

· A female in her 10s. She had known out-of-state travel.

All of the above individuals are in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all close contacts.

Harvey County has had 331 COVID-19 cases to date, including 325 confirmed and six probable cases. There are 15 known active cases in Harvey County. No individuals are hospitalized at this time.

<figure>
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 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed six new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:· A male in his 20s. His source of exposure is unknown.· A male in his 40s. His source of exposure is unknown.· A female in her 10s. Her source of exposure is unknown.· A male in his 60s. He was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county.· A female in her 30s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county.· A female in her 10s. She had known out-of-state travel.All of the above individuals are in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all close contacts.Harvey County has had 331 COVID-19 cases to date, including 325 confirmed and six probable cases. There are 15 known active cases in Harvey County. No individuals are hospitalized at this time.

COVID cases inch up in Harvey County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Community colleges have always had the advantage of adapting to the business or industrial climate they’re located in. And a grant from Tyson Foods will allow Hutchinson Community College to do just that.&nbsp;

The college announced Friday that it has been selected as the recipient of a $15,000 grant from Tyson. The grant will allow HutchCC to offer its Mechanical Maintenance apprenticeship program to existing Hutchinson and South Hutchinson Tyson employees giving them promotional opportunities with the potential for higher pay.

”Tyson’s support of our apprenticeship program is greatly appreciated,” Dr. Carter File, President of Hutchinson Community College said.&nbsp; “With Tyson’s support, we look forward to working with their employees to equip them with the skills necessary to succeed in the workplace”.

Additionally, this investment from Tyson Foods will enable HutchCC to potentially include community members in this program who are not currently employed by Tyson but who have an interest in enhancing their skills and working for Tyson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581541933395.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Community colleges have always had the advantage of adapting to the business or industrial climate they’re located in. And a grant from Tyson Foods will allow Hutchinson Community College to do just that.&nbsp;The college announced Friday that it has been selected as the recipient of a $15,000 grant from Tyson. The grant will allow HutchCC to offer its Mechanical Maintenance apprenticeship program to existing Hutchinson and South Hutchinson Tyson employees giving them promotional opportunities with the potential for higher pay.”Tyson’s support of our apprenticeship program is greatly appreciated,” Dr. Carter File, President of Hutchinson Community College said.&nbsp; “With Tyson’s support, we look forward to working with their employees to equip them with the skills necessary to succeed in the workplace”.Additionally, this investment from Tyson Foods will enable HutchCC to potentially include community members in this program who are not currently employed by Tyson but who have an interest in enhancing their skills and working for Tyson.

HutchCC receives grant from Tyson Foods


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Fall Homecoming at Hutchinson High School is still on, but there are some changes.

"We've had to drop a couple of our long-term traditions," said spokesperson Ray Hemman. "We will have the powderpuff game at 1 p.m. Sunday. It's junior versus senior girls at Gowans. We won't have the parade this year through downtown. The Health Department recommended against it."

Also, the kids won't be finding out who they are voting on for royalty as they normally would.

"Our assemblies to introduce the Homecoming finalists will be done virtually this year," Hemman said. "We've had to change up things a little bit."

Replacing the parade will be a competition for hall decorations. HHS students will decorate hallways of the school Sunday afternoon from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Each class will decorate a hall to represent the theme of Homecoming week. Winners will be announced at the Homecoming game.

Theme for the fall is vintage video games. The Homecoming football game is Friday the 25th against Newton.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Fall Homecoming at Hutchinson High School is still on, but there are some changes."We've had to drop a couple of our long-term traditions," said spokesperson Ray Hemman. "We will have the powderpuff game at 1 p.m. Sunday. It's junior versus senior girls at Gowans. We won't have the parade this year through downtown. The Health Department recommended against it."Also, the kids won't be finding out who they are voting on for royalty as they normally would."Our assemblies to introduce the Homecoming finalists will be done virtually this year," Hemman said. "We've had to change up things a little bit."Replacing the parade will be a competition for hall decorations. HHS students will decorate hallways of the school Sunday afternoon from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Each class will decorate a hall to represent the theme of Homecoming week. Winners will be announced at the Homecoming game.Theme for the fall is vintage video games. The Homecoming football game is Friday the 25th against Newton.

Hutch High Homecoming different this year

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

Recent obituaries

The Reno County Planning Commission listened through around four and a half hours of public comment on Thursday at a meeting on the Kansas State Fairgrounds regarding proposed wind farm regulations.

The parts of the proposed wind farm regulations where they are still trying to get the language worked out include language concerning airstrips and the general setback requirements.

There was some hope by the board that they would get to a final resolution on language on Thursday, but they were given enough information by the public that they had not had before that they did not feel they could make that decision without studying what was given to them.

The public comment portion of the meeting on the regulations was closed toward the end of the Thursday event, but the board did come to a consensus to continue the meeting to Oct. 13 at 4:30 p.m. at the Public Works office in South Hutchinson for further discussion. 

There will not be public comment on that date as the public comment portion was closed Thursday night. The meeting will be made publicly available on YouTube that day, as there is limited seating at the Public Works office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579705802237.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Reno County Planning Commission listened through around four and a half hours of public comment on Thursday at a meeting on the Kansas State Fairgrounds regarding proposed wind farm regulations.The parts of the proposed wind farm regulations where they are still trying to get the language worked out include language concerning airstrips and the general setback requirements.There was some hope by the board that they would get to a final resolution on language on Thursday, but they were given enough information by the public that they had not had before that they did not feel they could make that decision without studying what was given to them.The public comment portion of the meeting on the regulations was closed toward the end of the Thursday event, but the board did come to a consensus to continue the meeting to Oct. 13 at 4:30 p.m. at the Public Works office in South Hutchinson for further discussion. There will not be public comment on that date as the public comment portion was closed Thursday night. The meeting will be made publicly available on YouTube that day, as there is limited seating at the Public Works office.

Planning Commission continues wind farm regulations meeting to Oct. 13

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Apollo-era legends will be part of the experience viewers can expect from Onward and Upward, the Cosmosphere’s first virtual telethon and auction, which will launch Sunday, Oct. 4, at 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The events, which will be accessible through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kscosmosphere">Cosmosphere’s Facebook page</a>, will begin with a fundraising telethon that will include virtual tours of artifacts such as the Apollo 13 Command Module Odyssey and the Liberty Bell 7, along with guest appearances by individuals involved in space exploration from the Apollo and shuttle era to today. Those making an appearance include astronauts Fred Haise and Jim Lovell from Apollo 13, Apollo 11 astronaut Michael Collins, and Mission Control Flight Directors Gene Kranz and Gerry Griffin.

“While the goal is to raise operating funds for the Cosmosphere, it is also to inspire,” Mimi Meredith, Cosmosphere Sr. VP of Development and Chief Development Officer, said. “There’s nothing like the story of human spaceflight to remind us what incredible things we can do when we work together. That’s what the Cosmosphere, and the telethon, are all about — reminding us that seemingly insurmountable challenges can be overcome with tenacity and teamwork.”&nbsp;

The Onward and Upward Virtual Auction will kick off immediately following the telethon. It will offer hundreds of items ranging from travel experiences and artwork, to collectibles and autographed space memorabilia. The auction will be live until 5 p.m. on Oct. 18. Proceeds from both events will help the nonprofit museum overcome challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583784421934.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Apollo-era legends will be part of the experience viewers can expect from Onward and Upward, the Cosmosphere’s first virtual telethon and auction, which will launch Sunday, Oct. 4, at 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;The events, which will be accessible through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kscosmosphere">Cosmosphere’s Facebook page</a>, will begin with a fundraising telethon that will include virtual tours of artifacts such as the Apollo 13 Command Module Odyssey and the Liberty Bell 7, along with guest appearances by individuals involved in space exploration from the Apollo and shuttle era to today. Those making an appearance include astronauts Fred Haise and Jim Lovell from Apollo 13, Apollo 11 astronaut Michael Collins, and Mission Control Flight Directors Gene Kranz and Gerry Griffin.“While the goal is to raise operating funds for the Cosmosphere, it is also to inspire,” Mimi Meredith, Cosmosphere Sr. VP of Development and Chief Development Officer, said. “There’s nothing like the story of human spaceflight to remind us what incredible things we can do when we work together. That’s what the Cosmosphere, and the telethon, are all about — reminding us that seemingly insurmountable challenges can be overcome with tenacity and teamwork.”&nbsp;The Onward and Upward Virtual Auction will kick off immediately following the telethon. It will offer hundreds of items ranging from travel experiences and artwork, to collectibles and autographed space memorabilia. The auction will be live until 5 p.m. on Oct. 18. Proceeds from both events will help the nonprofit museum overcome challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Cosmosphere to host virtual telethon and auction

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 and Salthawk Community Support is looking for volunteers to be mentors at both HMS-8 and Hutchinson High School.

Salthawk Community Support provides mentors who spend 15-30 minutes once a week with a student, visiting as a friend, playing games or working on social skills.&nbsp;

Tutors also help with after school tutoring and math tutors are especially needed. Salthawk Community Support will provide the training, background checks and ongoing support.&nbsp;

If you would like to be a part of Salthawk Community Support you can call Trinity United Methodist Church or call Nikkee Byard, Salthawk Community Support Director, with USD 308 at&nbsp; (620) 615-4356, or by email at <a href="http://byard@nikkee@usd308.com">byard.nikkee@usd308.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600358125863.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 and Salthawk Community Support is looking for volunteers to be mentors at both HMS-8 and Hutchinson High School.Salthawk Community Support provides mentors who spend 15-30 minutes once a week with a student, visiting as a friend, playing games or working on social skills.&nbsp;Tutors also help with after school tutoring and math tutors are especially needed. Salthawk Community Support will provide the training, background checks and ongoing support.&nbsp;If you would like to be a part of Salthawk Community Support you can call Trinity United Methodist Church or call Nikkee Byard, Salthawk Community Support Director, with USD 308 at&nbsp; (620) 615-4356, or by email at <a href="http://byard@nikkee@usd308.com">byard.nikkee@usd308.com.</a>

Salthawk Community Support looking for mentors

HUTCHINSON, Kan — A Hutchinson Correctional Facility employee is facing numerous counts of attempting to smuggle contraband into the prison.&nbsp;

Twenty-two-year-old Zachary Wood of Newton faces eight different counts in an effort to smuggle K-2 into the facility. He’s being held on a bond of $100,000. Wood faces three counts of conspiracy, three counts of using a communication device to distribute drugs, one count of drug distribution and one count of trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

According to the complaint, Wood is accused of using three different women to bring the synthetic marijuana into the facility over a period of two months.

One of those three, 48-year-old Esther Davis, was taken into custody on Tuesday on a charge of trafficking contraband. She is currently free on bond.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan — A Hutchinson Correctional Facility employee is facing numerous counts of attempting to smuggle contraband into the prison.&nbsp;Twenty-two-year-old Zachary Wood of Newton faces eight different counts in an effort to smuggle K-2 into the facility. He’s being held on a bond of $100,000. Wood faces three counts of conspiracy, three counts of using a communication device to distribute drugs, one count of drug distribution and one count of trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.According to the complaint, Wood is accused of using three different women to bring the synthetic marijuana into the facility over a period of two months.One of those three, 48-year-old Esther Davis, was taken into custody on Tuesday on a charge of trafficking contraband. She is currently free on bond.

HCF employee arrested on drug trafficking

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The City is starting a Hutchinson Youth Commission.

Hutchinson High School student Kian Williams spoke to the City Council Tuesday about the program.

"We have a proposed charter," Williams said. "It would be nine students approved by, I believe, the City Manager through an application process. We can make sure we have some dedicated people working to identify these issues."

Applications for the commission went out on March 13, just in time for school to go remote for the remainder of the year.

"This isn't an isolated issue in the city of Hutch," Williams said. "This is just something that the nation as a whole and probably across the world, where youth are not listened to and are not taken seriously when they want to discuss issues facing our community. If they complain about any issues, they are told to shut up and sit down and wait their turn, because they don't have the life experience. That's not necessarily true."

Glenna Burden, social studies teacher at Hutch High, was approached last February by Datjeda Moore, city human relations director, and Steve Garza, councilman, to start a youth commission. 

"There are plenty of youth in our community that have wonderful ideas and that have solutions to issues that are affecting them. That's something that we need to take a look at and that's something that we need to prioritize. That's exactly what this council would do. This youth council would make sure that these youth have a safe platform to air their concerns, to complain about issues facing them, as well as start discussing solutions."

The youth commission is open to students who attend a senior high school in the county and live in the city of Hutchinson boundaries.

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 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The City is starting a Hutchinson Youth Commission.Hutchinson High School student Kian Williams spoke to the City Council Tuesday about the program."We have a proposed charter," Williams said. "It would be nine students approved by, I believe, the City Manager through an application process. We can make sure we have some dedicated people working to identify these issues."Applications for the commission went out on March 13, just in time for school to go remote for the remainder of the year."This isn't an isolated issue in the city of Hutch," Williams said. "This is just something that the nation as a whole and probably across the world, where youth are not listened to and are not taken seriously when they want to discuss issues facing our community. If they complain about any issues, they are told to shut up and sit down and wait their turn, because they don't have the life experience. That's not necessarily true."Glenna Burden, social studies teacher at Hutch High, was approached last February by Datjeda Moore, city human relations director, and Steve Garza, councilman, to start a youth commission. "There are plenty of youth in our community that have wonderful ideas and that have solutions to issues that are affecting them. That's something that we need to take a look at and that's something that we need to prioritize. That's exactly what this council would do. This youth council would make sure that these youth have a safe platform to air their concerns, to complain about issues facing them, as well as start discussing solutions."The youth commission is open to students who attend a senior high school in the county and live in the city of Hutchinson boundaries.

City starting youth commission


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Libertarian U.S. Senate candidate Jason Buckley believes government should be smaller, to what some people might call an extreme level.

"I definitely want to lower your taxes," Buckley said. "I would like to see the federal income tax completely abolished. That will leave more money in everyone's pocket.

Buckley didn't have an answer for how government would pay for itself in that case. He said where to cut, including defense and bringing the troops home. He didn't give an alternative tax system.

He believes both the Republicans and Democrats want too much government.

"The two main parties, they only want big government," Buckley said. "They want to spend your money in different ways. They both want big government. I want to shrink down the size of government. It's getting out of control with the level of debt they have, the deficit they have."

Buckley is optimistic that if he were to win, even if the other 99 Senators were from the two main parties, that he would find ways to help.

"Hopefully, my message will spread," Buckley said. "Then, eventually, there will be other like minded individuals in Congress. But, there are plenty of things that, Republicans and Democrats, that I can speak to both and potentially get enough to start the conversation."

For more information on Buckley's campaign, go to his campaign <a href="https://www.jasonbuckley2020.com/">website</a>.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Libertarian U.S. Senate candidate Jason Buckley believes government should be smaller, to what some people might call an extreme level."I definitely want to lower your taxes," Buckley said. "I would like to see the federal income tax completely abolished. That will leave more money in everyone's pocket.Buckley didn't have an answer for how government would pay for itself in that case. He said where to cut, including defense and bringing the troops home. He didn't give an alternative tax system.He believes both the Republicans and Democrats want too much government."The two main parties, they only want big government," Buckley said. "They want to spend your money in different ways. They both want big government. I want to shrink down the size of government. It's getting out of control with the level of debt they have, the deficit they have."Buckley is optimistic that if he were to win, even if the other 99 Senators were from the two main parties, that he would find ways to help."Hopefully, my message will spread," Buckley said. "Then, eventually, there will be other like minded individuals in Congress. But, there are plenty of things that, Republicans and Democrats, that I can speak to both and potentially get enough to start the conversation."For more information on Buckley's campaign, go to his campaign <a href="https://www.jasonbuckley2020.com/">website</a>.

Libertarian U.S. Senate candidate calls for abolishment of federal income tax


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Talking Tombstones continues its residency at Eastside Cemetery at 500 South Cleveland in Hutchinson this weekend.

"This is something that started out as a fundraiser for the Hutchinson Theatre Guild," said Lynsey Becher with Stage 9. "People loved it so much, we keep bringing it back year after year."

The cast of characters this year includes some fairly well-known Hutchinson names.

"This year, we're doing Chester I. Lewis, Adela Hale, Delos V. Smith, Bernice Delano, Minnie Rayl, Mary Collingwood, Clinton Carter Hutchinson and Olga Johnson," Becher said. "We have a really exciting bunch this year."

The event will be presented slightly differently, as well.

"Normally, what happens is people will take a walking tour through the cemetery and go from actor to actor," Becher said. "Of course, this year with COVID, we felt like we couldn't keep people safe that way, so we have built an outdoor theater by the big mausoleum in Eastside Cemetery and people will bring their own chairs. We will have some chairs available for people who don't have chairs themselves. Then, they'll sit among the tombstones and the actors will come up on stage."

There will be three showings Saturday night at 5:30 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. Patrons can buy tickets at <a href="https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?e=71a025c999735a77734f4bf93cc66448&amp;t=tix&amp;vqitq=f9150320-40f5-40e2-ab61-478fe6f88b67&amp;vqitp=d6b99cd9-979d-4e58-89ce-c296609e9e31&amp;vqitts=1600349974&amp;vqitc=vendini&amp;vqite=itl&amp;vqitrt=Safetynet&amp;vqith=cf494d57ad7755839261b9479166af97">stage9hutch.com</a> or at the door the night of the event. Student and senior tickets are $12. Adult tickets are $15.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Talking Tombstones continues its residency at Eastside Cemetery at 500 South Cleveland in Hutchinson this weekend."This is something that started out as a fundraiser for the Hutchinson Theatre Guild," said Lynsey Becher with Stage 9. "People loved it so much, we keep bringing it back year after year."The cast of characters this year includes some fairly well-known Hutchinson names."This year, we're doing Chester I. Lewis, Adela Hale, Delos V. Smith, Bernice Delano, Minnie Rayl, Mary Collingwood, Clinton Carter Hutchinson and Olga Johnson," Becher said. "We have a really exciting bunch this year."The event will be presented slightly differently, as well."Normally, what happens is people will take a walking tour through the cemetery and go from actor to actor," Becher said. "Of course, this year with COVID, we felt like we couldn't keep people safe that way, so we have built an outdoor theater by the big mausoleum in Eastside Cemetery and people will bring their own chairs. We will have some chairs available for people who don't have chairs themselves. Then, they'll sit among the tombstones and the actors will come up on stage."There will be three showings Saturday night at 5:30 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. Patrons can buy tickets at <a href="https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?e=71a025c999735a77734f4bf93cc66448&amp;t=tix&amp;vqitq=f9150320-40f5-40e2-ab61-478fe6f88b67&amp;vqitp=d6b99cd9-979d-4e58-89ce-c296609e9e31&amp;vqitts=1600349974&amp;vqitc=vendini&amp;vqite=itl&amp;vqitrt=Safetynet&amp;vqith=cf494d57ad7755839261b9479166af97">stage9hutch.com</a> or at the door the night of the event. Student and senior tickets are $12. Adult tickets are $15.

Talking Tombstones Saturday at Eastside Cemetery


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The case count number in Reno County has bounced back up as of Wednesday afternoon due to another spate of cases in the Hutchinson Correctional Facility. 

According to the county dashboard, the HCF case count went from one earlier this week back to 38 on Wednesday. There are now 98 overall cases in the county. 888 people have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic, 787 have recovered. Three have died.

The community positive test rate is at 7.03%, with the overall positive test rate bouncing back up to 11.11% thanks to the new prison cases. 12.72% of the population has been tested. That equates to 7,995 tests administered thus far.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The case count number in Reno County has bounced back up as of Wednesday afternoon due to another spate of cases in the Hutchinson Correctional Facility. According to the county dashboard, the HCF case count went from one earlier this week back to 38 on Wednesday. There are now 98 overall cases in the county. 888 people have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic, 787 have recovered. Three have died.The community positive test rate is at 7.03%, with the overall positive test rate bouncing back up to 11.11% thanks to the new prison cases. 12.72% of the population has been tested. That equates to 7,995 tests administered thus far.

HCF case increase drives overall case count number bounce

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson teen is one of 10 that received a Kansas State Fair Grand Drive Scholarship during the competition held last weekend at the fairgrounds. Becca Paine was awarded one of the scholarships as part of the Grand Drive livestock show. 

The event was the second of three weekends of competition for youth to show their livestock in absence of the fair this year.

The program, which started in 2019, offers 10 $1,000 scholarships to any past or present exhibitor of the Kansas State Fair Grand Drive that is enrolled in secondary education and who graduated high school in 2020 or before. 

Applicants were required to submit their high school &amp; post-secondary grade reports. The applicant also had to write an essay describing their experience in showing livestock at the KSF Grand Drive and provide two letters of recommendation.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson teen is one of 10 that received a Kansas State Fair Grand Drive Scholarship during the competition held last weekend at the fairgrounds. Becca Paine was awarded one of the scholarships as part of the Grand Drive livestock show. The event was the second of three weekends of competition for youth to show their livestock in absence of the fair this year.The program, which started in 2019, offers 10 $1,000 scholarships to any past or present exhibitor of the Kansas State Fair Grand Drive that is enrolled in secondary education and who graduated high school in 2020 or before. Applicants were required to submit their high school &amp; post-secondary grade reports. The applicant also had to write an essay describing their experience in showing livestock at the KSF Grand Drive and provide two letters of recommendation.

Paine wins Grand Drive scholarship

NICKERSON,	Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board approved a new collective bargaining agreement with its teachers during Monday’s agenda session.

Under the new contract base pay for teachers will increase $500 to $38,550. That increase and other changes to pay and benefits totals around $190,000.

The board also approved a Memorandum of Understanding which was put into the new agreement that deals with any changes in the school year due to the pandemic.

Under the agreement a committee consisting of representatives from each school building, a principal, and the superintendent will work to identify necessary changes to the Professional Agreement if the school year is altered in any way.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON,	Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board approved a new collective bargaining agreement with its teachers during Monday’s agenda session.Under the new contract base pay for teachers will increase $500 to $38,550. That increase and other changes to pay and benefits totals around $190,000.The board also approved a Memorandum of Understanding which was put into the new agreement that deals with any changes in the school year due to the pandemic.Under the agreement a committee consisting of representatives from each school building, a principal, and the superintendent will work to identify necessary changes to the Professional Agreement if the school year is altered in any way.

USD 309 Board approves new teachers contract

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners gave approval to purchase 13 rooftop HVAC units for the Community Corrections building during their regular agenda session. The Board approved the bid from Sturgeon Plumbing at a cost of $80,741. Funds for the purchase will come from rent payments made to the county from the state run agency.

The board also took time to discuss a new fiber optic system for the landfill and public works. Technical problems caused by weather and other factors have limited the usefulness of the current system. Technology Director Mike Mathews says they could install their own system which would allow them to upgrade it as needed. It also prevents them from being at the mercy of a service provider.

Mathews says owning the system would also make it easier to repair or replace as needed. No action was taken by the board.

The board also received an update from County Administrator Randy Partington regarding equipment needs for Reno County Rural Fire District (RFD) 4 in Arlington. A recent test on equipment showed that the two aging trucks in their fleet need replaced.&nbsp;

The RFD will be back before the board in the next week or two asking to use some capital reserve funds to purchase one new and one used pumper truck.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners gave approval to purchase 13 rooftop HVAC units for the Community Corrections building during their regular agenda session. The Board approved the bid from Sturgeon Plumbing at a cost of $80,741. Funds for the purchase will come from rent payments made to the county from the state run agency.The board also took time to discuss a new fiber optic system for the landfill and public works. Technical problems caused by weather and other factors have limited the usefulness of the current system. Technology Director Mike Mathews says they could install their own system which would allow them to upgrade it as needed. It also prevents them from being at the mercy of a service provider.Mathews says owning the system would also make it easier to repair or replace as needed. No action was taken by the board.The board also received an update from County Administrator Randy Partington regarding equipment needs for Reno County Rural Fire District (RFD) 4 in Arlington. A recent test on equipment showed that the two aging trucks in their fleet need replaced.&nbsp;The RFD will be back before the board in the next week or two asking to use some capital reserve funds to purchase one new and one used pumper truck.

Co. Commission approved HVAC purchase


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Community Foundation awarded $49,192 to seven nonprofit organizations in its most recent round of Fund for Hutchinson grants.

Established in 1990, the Fund for Hutchinson serves as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County. More than $3.7 million have been awarded to more than 170 area organizations and agencies from the fund.

Proposals for the grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.

The following organizations received grants:

BrightHouse – $9,016: This grant will fund six weeks of salary and benefits for the incoming executive director, allowing an overlap training period with retiring the executive director, with the goal of a smooth, effective transition for staff, board and clients.

Hutchinson Symphony – $4,850: Funds will support production and marketing costs for “Playworks at the Clayworks,” an in-person and livestreamed event featuring four new Hutchinson Symphony ensembles playing a variety of pieces in order to provide Hutchinson and Reno County a unique, quality musical experience.

Interfaith Housing and Community Services Inc. – $13,576: Funds will contribute to the purchase and installation of a new sign, reflecting the agency’s recent name change and making the building easier to find for clients, community partners and donors, and will also cover replacement of a section of windows on the building.

Plainview Mennonite Church-JAM Program – $8,500: Funds will be used to help with projects that will improve the efficiency and operations of the former Partridge Grade School building, which the church recently purchased to expand capacity to serve youth and their families in southwest Reno County.

Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters Serving Reno County – $6,250: Funding will support administrative and marketing costs for the Bigs in Blue project, which focuses on recruiting, training and matching Hutchinson and South Hutchinson police and Reno County Sheriff’s officers as mentors, building not only trust among youth, their families and the mentoring officers but also strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Kansas Food Bank Warehouse Inc. – $5,000: Grant will support the Food 4 Kids Backpack Program, which distributes backpacks free-of-charge on Fridays during the school year, providing students with food for the weekend and allowing students to return to school on Monday feeling less anxious, healthier and more prepared to learn. Nine elementary schools in Hutchinson and seven additional schools throughout Reno County participate in this program.

Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community – $2,000: Grant will fund the purchase of iPads, allowing access to TeleMed, which has become a necessity if patients, staff and other community members are to remain safe during COVID-19. Telemedicine removes the need for residents to leave the retirement community and risk exposure to illness, and it also eliminates wait time, transportation costs, staff time lost because of travel with clients, and the potential necessity for quarantine time because of exposures.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Community Foundation awarded $49,192 to seven nonprofit organizations in its most recent round of Fund for Hutchinson grants.Established in 1990, the Fund for Hutchinson serves as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County. More than $3.7 million have been awarded to more than 170 area organizations and agencies from the fund.Proposals for the grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.The following organizations received grants:BrightHouse – $9,016: This grant will fund six weeks of salary and benefits for the incoming executive director, allowing an overlap training period with retiring the executive director, with the goal of a smooth, effective transition for staff, board and clients.Hutchinson Symphony – $4,850: Funds will support production and marketing costs for “Playworks at the Clayworks,” an in-person and livestreamed event featuring four new Hutchinson Symphony ensembles playing a variety of pieces in order to provide Hutchinson and Reno County a unique, quality musical experience.Interfaith Housing and Community Services Inc. – $13,576: Funds will contribute to the purchase and installation of a new sign, reflecting the agency’s recent name change and making the building easier to find for clients, community partners and donors, and will also cover replacement of a section of windows on the building.Plainview Mennonite Church-JAM Program – $8,500: Funds will be used to help with projects that will improve the efficiency and operations of the former Partridge Grade School building, which the church recently purchased to expand capacity to serve youth and their families in southwest Reno County.Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters Serving Reno County – $6,250: Funding will support administrative and marketing costs for the Bigs in Blue project, which focuses on recruiting, training and matching Hutchinson and South Hutchinson police and Reno County Sheriff’s officers as mentors, building not only trust among youth, their families and the mentoring officers but also strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.Kansas Food Bank Warehouse Inc. – $5,000: Grant will support the Food 4 Kids Backpack Program, which distributes backpacks free-of-charge on Fridays during the school year, providing students with food for the weekend and allowing students to return to school on Monday feeling less anxious, healthier and more prepared to learn. Nine elementary schools in Hutchinson and seven additional schools throughout Reno County participate in this program.Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community – $2,000: Grant will fund the purchase of iPads, allowing access to TeleMed, which has become a necessity if patients, staff and other community members are to remain safe during COVID-19. Telemedicine removes the need for residents to leave the retirement community and risk exposure to illness, and it also eliminates wait time, transportation costs, staff time lost because of travel with clients, and the potential necessity for quarantine time because of exposures.

Foundation awards more than $49,000 in grants


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson City Council appeared to coalesce around the idea of a park patrol as a solution to vandalism and other issues surrounding parks throughout the city on Tuesday.

"We're so spread out," said Police Chief Jeff Hooper. "We have 24 square miles in the city, so it's a spread out city anyway and then you throw something like Orchard Park out there and so its hard to get the extra patrol there. Carey Park, we're in there a lot. Any time we take somebody to the jail, the officers drive that route and drive through there. There's a lot more police presence there."

One concern of the council was being sure that city resources are not disproportionately used for one area of the city over another. That's part of the reason Director of Parks and Facilities Justin Combs presented the idea.

"They are part-time employees," Combs said. "We're not into it for a ton of money at that point. There are some salaries there, but again, there are no benefits or anything like that, so that might be an easy first step. If that doesn't work, then maybe we look at something a little bit more harsh."

"We already have a system in place," Hooper said. "We already have a unit. We have the PSA program already. We have a vehicle for them already. We would just have to add a couple extra personnel. Most of the people that are involved in that program are college students at HCC or Sterling that are in there. Basically, it's a training and mentoring program. We've hired three of them out of that program for officers. We would have to hire specific PSAs for this task that worked part time but worked every night."

Hooper believes it would cost around $25,000 a year to get this done if it were done year-round. He has that money in his budget for the next couple of years and he said, if the council approved the idea, it could get started within a month or a little more depending on how quickly they could hire the part-time help.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson City Council appeared to coalesce around the idea of a park patrol as a solution to vandalism and other issues surrounding parks throughout the city on Tuesday."We're so spread out," said Police Chief Jeff Hooper. "We have 24 square miles in the city, so it's a spread out city anyway and then you throw something like Orchard Park out there and so its hard to get the extra patrol there. Carey Park, we're in there a lot. Any time we take somebody to the jail, the officers drive that route and drive through there. There's a lot more police presence there."One concern of the council was being sure that city resources are not disproportionately used for one area of the city over another. That's part of the reason Director of Parks and Facilities Justin Combs presented the idea."They are part-time employees," Combs said. "We're not into it for a ton of money at that point. There are some salaries there, but again, there are no benefits or anything like that, so that might be an easy first step. If that doesn't work, then maybe we look at something a little bit more harsh."Chief Hooper is on board with the idea."We already have a system in place," Hooper said. "We already have a unit. We have the PSA program already. We have a vehicle for them already. We would just have to add a couple extra personnel. Most of the people that are involved in that program are college students at HCC or Sterling that are in there. Basically, it's a training and mentoring program. We've hired three of them out of that program for officers. We would have to hire specific PSAs for this task that worked part time but worked every night."Hooper believes it would cost around $25,000 a year to get this done if it were done year-round. He has that money in his budget for the next couple of years and he said, if the council approved the idea, it could get started within a month or a little more depending on how quickly they could hire the part-time help.

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