BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler School District is still short on bus drivers and are looking for solutions to the problem. A full report on transportation was given to the school board during their regular meeting.

Like most rural districts, Buhler has been short of bus drivers since the start of the year. Efforts to get more drivers have been unsuccessful, so other ideas are being entertained.

Some of the possible solutions include using a hub type system where a certain school is the hub for picking up and dropping off students. Another possibility is to widen the stagger of the start times for various schools allowing bus drivers to run longer routes or even two routes.

No decisions have been made and the hope is still to find more bus drivers to cover routes and activities. No action was taken during Monday’s meeting.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636545715782.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler School District is still short on bus drivers and are looking for solutions to the problem. A full report on transportation was given to the school board during their regular meeting.Like most rural districts, Buhler has been short of bus drivers since the start of the year. Efforts to get more drivers have been unsuccessful, so other ideas are being entertained.Some of the possible solutions include using a hub type system where a certain school is the hub for picking up and dropping off students. Another possibility is to widen the stagger of the start times for various schools allowing bus drivers to run longer routes or even two routes.No decisions have been made and the hope is still to find more bus drivers to cover routes and activities. No action was taken during Monday’s meeting.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Buhler USD 313 still looking for solutions to transportation issues

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven School Board went over their list of capital outlay projects during Monday’s meeting.&nbsp;

The district has a list of projects for the 2021-22 school year including an electrical upgrade for the stadium and softball fields and an update to the roof at the high school shop area.

The district is also looking to replace some buses and make upgrades to the art room at Haven Grade School and another facility at the high school.&nbsp;

Other items not out for bid yet include new LED lighting, new bleachers at the middle school, a new storage shed by the stadium and a remodel of the science room at the high school. Some of these projects will be paid for with ESSER COVID relief funds and some will be a part of the capital outlay budget.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586361672308.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven School Board went over their list of capital outlay projects during Monday’s meeting.&nbsp;The district has a list of projects for the 2021-22 school year including an electrical upgrade for the stadium and softball fields and an update to the roof at the high school shop area.The district is also looking to replace some buses and make upgrades to the art room at Haven Grade School and another facility at the high school.&nbsp;Other items not out for bid yet include new LED lighting, new bleachers at the middle school, a new storage shed by the stadium and a remodel of the science room at the high school. Some of these projects will be paid for with ESSER COVID relief funds and some will be a part of the capital outlay budget.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven board goes over capital projects


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Salvation Army is just a little over halfway to its kettle goal of $70,000 this year as of Tuesday.

"It's closer to being on pace, but we still need a lot of help," said Maj. Paul James. "Saturday really put us past that halfway mark. Toy Depot, Sleep Shoppe and Smith's Market have really been a help for this season."

"If people have a couple hours, we have two hour increments, they can go on to registertoring.com, select what store and what two-hour time frame that they can sign up," James said. "Those are always available. Some days we are able to cover all of our spots. Other days, people don't show up."

If you want to donate, there are many ways to do so, even if you don't have cash for the kettle.

"On our kettle stands, sometimes, people have said, oh, if you only had a credit card machine, right?" James said. "There's still a way to do that. On our signs we have a QR code where you can turn your camera on your phone, highlight the QR code. It will pop up a website where you can enter your credit card and what amount you would like to donate. There's Paypal, Venmo, really no reason not to be able to donate in many different ways."

James even noted that some folks have been getting cash back and putting $20 bills in the kettle.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Salvation Army is just a little over halfway to its kettle goal of $70,000 this year as of Tuesday."It's closer to being on pace, but we still need a lot of help," said Maj. Paul James. "Saturday really put us past that halfway mark. Toy Depot, Sleep Shoppe and Smith's Market have really been a help for this season."They can still use bell ringers, too."If people have a couple hours, we have two hour increments, they can go on to registertoring.com, select what store and what two-hour time frame that they can sign up," James said. "Those are always available. Some days we are able to cover all of our spots. Other days, people don't show up."If you want to donate, there are many ways to do so, even if you don't have cash for the kettle."On our kettle stands, sometimes, people have said, oh, if you only had a credit card machine, right?" James said. "There's still a way to do that. On our signs we have a QR code where you can turn your camera on your phone, highlight the QR code. It will pop up a website where you can enter your credit card and what amount you would like to donate. There's Paypal, Venmo, really no reason not to be able to donate in many different ways."James even noted that some folks have been getting cash back and putting $20 bills in the kettle.

Salvation Army gives update

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere announced the addition of five new members to its Governing Board and three new members to its Foundation Board.

Joining Cosmosphere’s Governing Board of Directors are: Wes Kimmel, attorney at Foulston Siefken LLP, Jay Johnson, Prairie Dunes Country Club general manager and chief operating officer, Sheila Meggers, director of finance at USD 308 Hutchinson Public Schools, Erica Shook, Ad Astra Virtual Academy director for USD 313 and Teresa Schrock-Wagner, president and owner, Woodwork Manufacturing &amp; Supply, Inc.

New on the Cosmosphere Foundation Board of Directors are: Jordan Fee, risk advisor at Fee Insurance Group; Charlie Garcia, special projects chief engineer at Agile Space Industries, Molly Martens, senior certification engineer at SpaceX and David Neal, partner and senior wealth advisor at Frontier Wealth Management.

“The Cosmosphere boards are a phenomenal group of people who are passionate about our mission to inspire innovation through science education and honor the history of space exploration,” Jim Remar, Cosmosphere president and chief executive officer said. “With attendance the highest it’s been in the past seven years and our new virtual education initiative launching this year, these boards provide the foundation for ensuring the Cosmosphere can deliver on the promise of our mission in more impactful and relevant ways for even broader audiences.”

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere announced the addition of five new members to its Governing Board and three new members to its Foundation Board.Joining Cosmosphere’s Governing Board of Directors are: Wes Kimmel, attorney at Foulston Siefken LLP, Jay Johnson, Prairie Dunes Country Club general manager and chief operating officer, Sheila Meggers, director of finance at USD 308 Hutchinson Public Schools, Erica Shook, Ad Astra Virtual Academy director for USD 313 and Teresa Schrock-Wagner, president and owner, Woodwork Manufacturing &amp; Supply, Inc.New on the Cosmosphere Foundation Board of Directors are: Jordan Fee, risk advisor at Fee Insurance Group; Charlie Garcia, special projects chief engineer at Agile Space Industries, Molly Martens, senior certification engineer at SpaceX and David Neal, partner and senior wealth advisor at Frontier Wealth Management.“The Cosmosphere boards are a phenomenal group of people who are passionate about our mission to inspire innovation through science education and honor the history of space exploration,” Jim Remar, Cosmosphere president and chief executive officer said. “With attendance the highest it’s been in the past seven years and our new virtual education initiative launching this year, these boards provide the foundation for ensuring the Cosmosphere can deliver on the promise of our mission in more impactful and relevant ways for even broader audiences.”<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cosmosphere announces new board members

HUTCHINSON, Kan. – The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees wrapped up its calendar year last week primarily with several items of routine business.

The Board approved two new positions related to Enrollment Management, Advising and Career Development. The Director of Enrollment Management and Advising Services will provide leadership and develop strategies for the college’s ongoing enrollment and retention initiatives. There is no gain of positions as these positions are created from the consolidation of existing, vacant positions.

Also Thursday, the board approved a number of bids for various purchases and projects. The first is for a truck driving simulator from L3Harris at a cost of $98,400. The simulator is being paid for with a grant.

The board also approved a bid from Lampton Welding for equipment at a cost of $100,203; new communication equipment from Weis Fire and Safety for the fire science department for $25,170; and an upgraded lighting and sound system for the Stringer Fine Arts Center. The bid for the lighting from Kent AV totals $108,475 and the bid for the sound system comes from Peach Production Services for $107,390.

The next meeting of the board will be Thursday, January 13. The meeting will be at 7:00 p.m. in the Shears Technology Center Justice Theater.&nbsp; The public is invited to attend.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. – The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees wrapped up its calendar year last week primarily with several items of routine business.The Board approved two new positions related to Enrollment Management, Advising and Career Development. The Director of Enrollment Management and Advising Services will provide leadership and develop strategies for the college’s ongoing enrollment and retention initiatives. There is no gain of positions as these positions are created from the consolidation of existing, vacant positions.Also Thursday, the board approved a number of bids for various purchases and projects. The first is for a truck driving simulator from L3Harris at a cost of $98,400. The simulator is being paid for with a grant.The board also approved a bid from Lampton Welding for equipment at a cost of $100,203; new communication equipment from Weis Fire and Safety for the fire science department for $25,170; and an upgraded lighting and sound system for the Stringer Fine Arts Center. The bid for the lighting from Kent AV totals $108,475 and the bid for the sound system comes from Peach Production Services for $107,390.The next meeting of the board will be Thursday, January 13. The meeting will be at 7:00 p.m. in the Shears Technology Center Justice Theater.&nbsp; The public is invited to attend.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC BOT approves bids and new career positions

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven USD 312 School Board will hold a special meeting Tuesday evening.

The board will be meeting with the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) to discuss the district's search for a new superintendent.

The board approved the resignation of current Superintendent Clark Wedel during Monday night's meeting. Wedel has been the USD 312 Superintendent since 2015.

The board will also go over some training with the KASB during the meeting which begins at 6 p.m. at the School District offices at 414 W. Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven USD 312 School Board will hold a special meeting Tuesday evening.The board will be meeting with the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) to discuss the district's search for a new superintendent.The board approved the resignation of current Superintendent Clark Wedel during Monday night's meeting. Wedel has been the USD 312 Superintendent since 2015.The board will also go over some training with the KASB during the meeting which begins at 6 p.m. at the School District offices at 414 W. Main.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven USD 312 to hold special meeting Tuesday evening


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education passed a separation agreement with Assistant Superintendent Rhonda Trimble as part of its meeting Monday night. 

Since the discussions of that agreement were part of a non-elected personnel exception to the open meetings law, much of the meeting was in executive session and the details of the agreement were not disclosed.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education passed a separation agreement with Assistant Superintendent Rhonda Trimble as part of its meeting Monday night. Since the discussions of that agreement were part of a non-elected personnel exception to the open meetings law, much of the meeting was in executive session and the details of the agreement were not disclosed.

Trimble moving on from USD 308

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/ Reno County Chamber of Commerce will host their Community Benefit Organization Breakfast on Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. in the Encampment Building on the Kansas State Fairgrounds.&nbsp;

Guests will hear an update from the Hutchinson Community Foundation regarding the Community Philanthropy Innovators Network (CPIN) task force. This month's breakfast will also be dedicated to the 100+ Community Benefit Organization members who will be invited to attend at no charge as a thank you for all their work to make the community a better place.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/ Reno County Chamber of Commerce will host their Community Benefit Organization Breakfast on Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. in the Encampment Building on the Kansas State Fairgrounds.&nbsp;Guests will hear an update from the Hutchinson Community Foundation regarding the Community Philanthropy Innovators Network (CPIN) task force. This month's breakfast will also be dedicated to the 100+ Community Benefit Organization members who will be invited to attend at no charge as a thank you for all their work to make the community a better place.&nbsp;&nbsp;The cost to attend is $15 for members.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chamber Community Benefit Organization Breakfast is Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Long time Hutch Rec Director of Marketing and Development Amy Conkling has been promoted within the organization. 

Effective Jan. 1, 2022, Conkling will move into the newly formed role of Assistant Executive Director for the agency. In this role, Conkling will be a part of the executive leadership team. She will be responsible for the agency’s strategic communication and development efforts, as well as administrative duties with staff, programs, and facilities.

&nbsp;Conkling began her career with Hutch Rec in March 2007 as the agency’s director of marketing and special events. In 2015, she moved into the role of director of marketing and development. She received her Certified Parks and Recreation Professional certification (CPRP) through the National Recreation and Parks Association in August 2019.

Hutch Rec also announced the hiring of Preston Snider and Loribeth Reynolds. Snider started his role as Controller on November 29. Snider comes to Hutch Rec after a 14-year career as an auditor for Lindburg Vogel Pierce Faris, chartered in Hutchinson. At Hutch Rec, Snider will be responsible for accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, general ledger and monthly financial reports, among other duties.&nbsp;

Reynolds started her role as Marketing Manager on November 29. Reynolds comes to Hutch Rec after working at Queen Bee Marketing as their marketing operations manager. At Hutch Rec, Reynolds will be responsible for the agency’s promotions, publicity, and marketing for all programs, events, and initiatives, as well as implementing the overall look and brand in the community. Both Snider and Reynolds will be a part of the leadership team, with their offices&nbsp; at Hutch Rec Downtown.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639432355042.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Long time Hutch Rec Director of Marketing and Development Amy Conkling has been promoted within the organization. Effective Jan. 1, 2022, Conkling will move into the newly formed role of Assistant Executive Director for the agency. In this role, Conkling will be a part of the executive leadership team. She will be responsible for the agency’s strategic communication and development efforts, as well as administrative duties with staff, programs, and facilities.&nbsp;Conkling began her career with Hutch Rec in March 2007 as the agency’s director of marketing and special events. In 2015, she moved into the role of director of marketing and development. She received her Certified Parks and Recreation Professional certification (CPRP) through the National Recreation and Parks Association in August 2019.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639432397881.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch Rec also announced the hiring of Preston Snider and Loribeth Reynolds. Snider started his role as Controller on November 29. Snider comes to Hutch Rec after a 14-year career as an auditor for Lindburg Vogel Pierce Faris, chartered in Hutchinson. At Hutch Rec, Snider will be responsible for accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, general ledger and monthly financial reports, among other duties.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639432422448.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reynolds started her role as Marketing Manager on November 29. Reynolds comes to Hutch Rec after working at Queen Bee Marketing as their marketing operations manager. At Hutch Rec, Reynolds will be responsible for the agency’s promotions, publicity, and marketing for all programs, events, and initiatives, as well as implementing the overall look and brand in the community. Both Snider and Reynolds will be a part of the leadership team, with their offices&nbsp; at Hutch Rec Downtown.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Conkling promoted to new position at Hutch Rec

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Speed limits have been lowered on K-14/ 96 in a small part of South Hutchinson and south of the US50 interchange.

According to Tim Potter with KDOT the change comes after former South Hutchinson Police Chief Scott Jones originally requested that KDOT lower the speed limit at the interchange to 40 mph because of accidents there. That request was followed up by then former Chief Dean Harcrow. A KDOT traffic study following that request recommended lowering the speed limit. There has also been discussion about installing traffic signals at the interchange but for now the intersection is still controlled by stop signs.

Last week, KDOT installed the new speed limit signs north and south of the interchange lowering the speed limit from 45 mph to 40 mph and extending the 40 mph speed limit zone further south, including in some places where there had been a 55 mph speed limit. The changes are from Forest Avenue north of the interchange, to Heartland Drive south of US50. 

South Hutch Police say that the changes may catch the motorist off guard at first but Chief Darrin Pickering says that for now they will be educating motorists and not citing them.

The speed limit was also reduced from 65 to 55 from Heartland Drive south to Morgan Avenue near Kutter's Furniture. The speed limit goes to&nbsp; 65 mph at Morgan to near Cruppers Corner where it increases to 70 mph.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Speed limits have been lowered on K-14/ 96 in a small part of South Hutchinson and south of the US50 interchange.According to Tim Potter with KDOT the change comes after former South Hutchinson Police Chief Scott Jones originally requested that KDOT lower the speed limit at the interchange to 40 mph because of accidents there. That request was followed up by then former Chief Dean Harcrow. A KDOT traffic study following that request recommended lowering the speed limit. There has also been discussion about installing traffic signals at the interchange but for now the intersection is still controlled by stop signs.Last week, KDOT installed the new speed limit signs north and south of the interchange lowering the speed limit from 45 mph to 40 mph and extending the 40 mph speed limit zone further south, including in some places where there had been a 55 mph speed limit. The changes are from Forest Avenue north of the interchange, to Heartland Drive south of US50. South Hutch Police say that the changes may catch the motorist off guard at first but Chief Darrin Pickering says that for now they will be educating motorists and not citing them.The speed limit was also reduced from 65 to 55 from Heartland Drive south to Morgan Avenue near Kutter's Furniture. The speed limit goes to&nbsp; 65 mph at Morgan to near Cruppers Corner where it increases to 70 mph.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speed limits lowered around K14/ US50 interchange in South Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The process to fill the County Counselor's position will continue forward at Tuesday's Board of County Commissioners meeting.&nbsp;

County Administrator Randy Partington plans to ask for a non-elected personnel executive session related to getting the commission's feedback on the finalists that were interviewed on Friday.

Given the lengthy agenda planned, it is likely that session won't happen until after noon on Tuesday if it's added to the end of the meeting, even though the meeting will start at its normal time of 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

Reno County Counselor Joe O'Sullivan plans to retire at the end of the year.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The process to fill the County Counselor's position will continue forward at Tuesday's Board of County Commissioners meeting.&nbsp;County Administrator Randy Partington plans to ask for a non-elected personnel executive session related to getting the commission's feedback on the finalists that were interviewed on Friday.Given the lengthy agenda planned, it is likely that session won't happen until after noon on Tuesday if it's added to the end of the meeting, even though the meeting will start at its normal time of 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.Reno County Counselor Joe O'Sullivan plans to retire at the end of the year.

County Counselor process to continue Tuesday

KINGMAN, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Kingman. The Boil Water Advisory for Kingman County Rural Water District No. 1 remains in effect.

The advisory was put in effect due to a water main break which caused a loss of pressure in the system supporting the residents south of E. 8th Street and east of Main Street.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Kingman indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>KINGMAN, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Kingman. The Boil Water Advisory for Kingman County Rural Water District No. 1 remains in effect.The advisory was put in effect due to a water main break which caused a loss of pressure in the system supporting the residents south of E. 8th Street and east of Main Street.Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Kingman indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boil water advisory rescinded for city of Kingman


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County Health Department has begun administering COVID-19 booster doses to ages 16 and 17, effective Monday, December 13. This comes after the CDC and FDA cleared the younger age group last week.

Booster doses are recommended for all individuals aged 16 and older who have completed a 2-dose primary series of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least six months prior, or a Johnson and Johnson vaccine at least two months prior. At this time, only the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for adolescents aged 16 and 17. Boosters increase the antibody response, helping to protect from serious illness, even as the virus mutates.

Active COVID-19 cases in Reno County are currently at 629 and the positive test rate is back up over 20%. There has not yet been a confirmed case of the Omicron variant in Kansas. Preventative measures include getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, sanitizing hands frequently, socially distancing, staying home if feeling ill, and getting tested if exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms.

Reno County Emergency Management assisted Hutchinson Regional Medical Center in acquiring ten additional ventilator units from the state on Friday. There has been an increased need due to the severity of symptoms patients are experiencing.

The Reno County Health Department is administering vaccines during their normal operating hours. Walk-ins are accepted for those age 12 and over, but appointments are recommended. Appointments are required for children aged 5-11. Call 620-694-2900 and select option 6 for scheduling. The vaccine is free to any Reno County resident, regardless of citizen status or insurance. Flu shots can also be administered at the same time as a COVID vaccine.

The Health Department is open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 7:30am to noon, and 1 to 6pm, and Wednesday from 9am to noon and 1 to 6pm. To view vaccine availability at other sites, visit www.vaccines.gov. For a ride to one of the vaccine sites, call RCAT at 620-694-2913. To view the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard, visit www.renogov.org and click on the dashboard link in the spotlight section.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County Health Department has begun administering COVID-19 booster doses to ages 16 and 17, effective Monday, December 13. This comes after the CDC and FDA cleared the younger age group last week.Booster doses are recommended for all individuals aged 16 and older who have completed a 2-dose primary series of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least six months prior, or a Johnson and Johnson vaccine at least two months prior. At this time, only the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for adolescents aged 16 and 17. Boosters increase the antibody response, helping to protect from serious illness, even as the virus mutates.Active COVID-19 cases in Reno County are currently at 629 and the positive test rate is back up over 20%. There has not yet been a confirmed case of the Omicron variant in Kansas. Preventative measures include getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, sanitizing hands frequently, socially distancing, staying home if feeling ill, and getting tested if exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms.Reno County Emergency Management assisted Hutchinson Regional Medical Center in acquiring ten additional ventilator units from the state on Friday. There has been an increased need due to the severity of symptoms patients are experiencing.The Reno County Health Department is administering vaccines during their normal operating hours. Walk-ins are accepted for those age 12 and over, but appointments are recommended. Appointments are required for children aged 5-11. Call 620-694-2900 and select option 6 for scheduling. The vaccine is free to any Reno County resident, regardless of citizen status or insurance. Flu shots can also be administered at the same time as a COVID vaccine.The Health Department is open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 7:30am to noon, and 1 to 6pm, and Wednesday from 9am to noon and 1 to 6pm. To view vaccine availability at other sites, visit www.vaccines.gov. For a ride to one of the vaccine sites, call RCAT at 620-694-2913. To view the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard, visit www.renogov.org and click on the dashboard link in the spotlight section.

Health Department Administering COVID-19 Boosters to Ages 16 and 17 + Additional Ventilators Acquired

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 Ad Astra Academy will hold another Stuff the Sleigh event on Tuesday, Dec, 14 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

The event is for the Reno County Food Bank and the Buhler Food Bank. Donors are asked to drop off non-perishable food items to Midway Motors at 1200 E 30th Avenue. Cash donations will also be accepted.&nbsp;

The event is sponsored by the students and staff of the Ad Astra Virtual Academy.

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

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639411398325.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 Ad Astra Academy will hold another Stuff the Sleigh event on Tuesday, Dec, 14 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.The event is for the Reno County Food Bank and the Buhler Food Bank. Donors are asked to drop off non-perishable food items to Midway Motors at 1200 E 30th Avenue. Cash donations will also be accepted.&nbsp;The event is sponsored by the students and staff of the Ad Astra Virtual Academy.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

Stuff the Sleigh set for Tuesday

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven USD 312 school board will hold their regular agenda session this evening.

The board will go over several personnel matters including the resignation of Superintendent Clark Wedel and softball coach Amanda Eash. The board will also look over their list of capital improvements for the year and approve work agreements and contracts with staff.

Also this evening, the board will hear the district's transportation reports and consider a trip request from the Haven High School band.

Tonight's Haven USD 312 Board meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the Haven High School library.

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 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven USD 312 school board will hold their regular agenda session this evening.The board will go over several personnel matters including the resignation of Superintendent Clark Wedel and softball coach Amanda Eash. The board will also look over their list of capital improvements for the year and approve work agreements and contracts with staff.Also this evening, the board will hear the district's transportation reports and consider a trip request from the Haven High School band.Tonight's Haven USD 312 Board meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the Haven High School library.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

Haven School Board meeting is this evening

NICKERSON, Kan. — A long list of personnel matters are a part of tonight's Nickerson USD 309 School Board meeting.

The board will take action on the retirements of two classified staff and one instructor, Gary Sturgeon who is the language arts teacher at NHS. 

The board will also consider the resignations of NHS Volleyball coach Ashley Franklin and football coach Reggie Langford.

Also this evening, the board will consider an early release day for students at the high school on December 17th to accommodate the debate regional going on at the high school. All of these items are a part of tonight’s consent agenda.

Finally, the board will go over the classified handbook and hear the usual board reports. Tonight’s meeting of the Nickerson USD 309 School Board begins at 7 p.m. at Reno Valley Middle School at 1616 Wilshire Dr.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623727313031.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — A long list of personnel matters are a part of tonight's Nickerson USD 309 School Board meeting.The board will take action on the retirements of two classified staff and one instructor, Gary Sturgeon who is the language arts teacher at NHS. The board will also consider the resignations of NHS Volleyball coach Ashley Franklin and football coach Reggie Langford.Also this evening, the board will consider an early release day for students at the high school on December 17th to accommodate the debate regional going on at the high school. All of these items are a part of tonight’s consent agenda.Finally, the board will go over the classified handbook and hear the usual board reports. Tonight’s meeting of the Nickerson USD 309 School Board begins at 7 p.m. at Reno Valley Middle School at 1616 Wilshire Dr.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

USD 309 board meets Monday evening

Despite all the available metrics available for us to make sense of our world, measuring it is still largely defined by the parameters set forth by humans.

Everyone knows Mount Everest is the tallest mountain at just over 29,000 feet above mean sea level. Calculating the distance from base to peak gives the edge to Hawaii’s Mauna Kea at 33,484 feet, with just less than 14,000 of those above sea level. If you move the starting point to Earth’s center and look for the highest point closest to the stars, you’ll land on the top of Ecuador’s Mount Chimborazo because of its proximity to the equator where the Earth’s rotation makes the crust thicker.

Measuring the physical attributes around us is tricky enough given the ability to produce vastly different outcomes based on where an observer chooses to begin. Still the measurements of physical attributes are objective. When it comes to measuring the lives of others, we have to resort to subjective opinions.

On occasion, however, a person’s accomplishments are so impartially good and decent that society’s instincts and emotions combine into tautological proof. They are mountains in their own right.

Bob Dole was a mountain of a man, and his contribution to Kansas and America are immense and immeasurable. After more than a week of reflection and mourning the loss of such a man, it’s quite possible if any metric did exist to quantify the admiration and devotion he inspired, Dole would set records.

There are so many inflection points from which to choose to begin measuring. His birth in Russell; the Dust Bowl years of his youth; war wounds suffered on an Italian mountain. You can’t pick just one, they’re all part of the fabric that made up who Dole became.

If pressed, however, I’d consider the barrage of enemy fire to be the most consequential for Kansas and the nation. Dole was studying to become a doctor when he enlisted and went off to war. The bullets that tore into his body didn’t just take his right arm, it likely robbed central Kansas of one of its finest physicians.

Dole’s arduous three-year recovery also likely factored into his willingness to accept incremental progress, knowing that small changes add up over the course of time. This also meant largely avoiding the legislative spotlight, for as one of his many obituaries mentions, Dole’s record has “no signature bill.” Instead, he was content to leave fingerprints on decades of budget, tax and foreign policy discussions.

Though I knew some of the broad strokes about most of the events mentioned above prior to his death earlier this month, I never knew just how much support he garnered outside of Kansas. I was a freshman in high school when his political career ended just short of the presidency. I knew him better as a pharmaceutical pitchman than a legislative powerbroker, though it was the latter that eventually made the biggest impression on me.

I met Dole exactly once, during his “farewell” tour in 2014. He wasn’t running for anything, and he didn’t have anything to offer other than some conversation and his wit. Yet is presence alone was enough to draw a crowd on a sunny weekday afternoon in May. Some came just to say hello. For some, it was a chance to say goodbye. Still others just wanted to be in the presence of greatness again.

Every one of us was better for the experience, even if we couldn’t quantify that at the time.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauDespite all the available metrics available for us to make sense of our world, measuring it is still largely defined by the parameters set forth by humans.Everyone knows Mount Everest is the tallest mountain at just over 29,000 feet above mean sea level. Calculating the distance from base to peak gives the edge to Hawaii’s Mauna Kea at 33,484 feet, with just less than 14,000 of those above sea level. If you move the starting point to Earth’s center and look for the highest point closest to the stars, you’ll land on the top of Ecuador’s Mount Chimborazo because of its proximity to the equator where the Earth’s rotation makes the crust thicker.Measuring the physical attributes around us is tricky enough given the ability to produce vastly different outcomes based on where an observer chooses to begin. Still the measurements of physical attributes are objective. When it comes to measuring the lives of others, we have to resort to subjective opinions.On occasion, however, a person’s accomplishments are so impartially good and decent that society’s instincts and emotions combine into tautological proof. They are mountains in their own right.Bob Dole was a mountain of a man, and his contribution to Kansas and America are immense and immeasurable. After more than a week of reflection and mourning the loss of such a man, it’s quite possible if any metric did exist to quantify the admiration and devotion he inspired, Dole would set records.There are so many inflection points from which to choose to begin measuring. His birth in Russell; the Dust Bowl years of his youth; war wounds suffered on an Italian mountain. You can’t pick just one, they’re all part of the fabric that made up who Dole became.If pressed, however, I’d consider the barrage of enemy fire to be the most consequential for Kansas and the nation. Dole was studying to become a doctor when he enlisted and went off to war. The bullets that tore into his body didn’t just take his right arm, it likely robbed central Kansas of one of its finest physicians.Dole’s arduous three-year recovery also likely factored into his willingness to accept incremental progress, knowing that small changes add up over the course of time. This also meant largely avoiding the legislative spotlight, for as one of his many obituaries mentions, Dole’s record has “no signature bill.” Instead, he was content to leave fingerprints on decades of budget, tax and foreign policy discussions.Though I knew some of the broad strokes about most of the events mentioned above prior to his death earlier this month, I never knew just how much support he garnered outside of Kansas. I was a freshman in high school when his political career ended just short of the presidency. I knew him better as a pharmaceutical pitchman than a legislative powerbroker, though it was the latter that eventually made the biggest impression on me.I met Dole exactly once, during his “farewell” tour in 2014. He wasn’t running for anything, and he didn’t have anything to offer other than some conversation and his wit. Yet is presence alone was enough to draw a crowd on a sunny weekday afternoon in May. Some came just to say hello. For some, it was a chance to say goodbye. Still others just wanted to be in the presence of greatness again.Every one of us was better for the experience, even if we couldn’t quantify that at the time."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Taking Measure


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 2021 was a better year for tourism than 2020, but there's still work to do.

"2020 was a rough year across the board for everybody," said LeeAnn Cox with Visit Hutch. "2021, we did rebound a little bit. We certainly hoped that we would. Some of our partners here in the Hutchinson and Reno County area did a tremendous job in continuing to find ways to host events. We saw that. The hotels felt that impact, which they desperately needed. Coming off of the year prior with COVID, the hotel industry was probably the worst hit of all. I think we should all count ourselves lucky that we didn't lose any hotels."

There is still a lack of hotel rooms in Hutchinson.

"It hampers our ability to go to national shows, garner leads on events that we want to bid on," Cox said. "We can't come back and put a package together that's attractive to those rights holders. We just don't have the quantity of hotel rooms that are needed."

It's important to note that any hotel project the Atrium's size would likely stretch over more than a year, even without the additional hoops required by having a government entity in ownership. Nevertheless, it's even farther out than that construction timeline for events that are currently being booked.

"We are typically three years out when you go through the bid process," Cox said. "Those rights holders want to have host locations identified multiple years out. If we're going to a show in 2022 say, in the spring, we'll be bidding on events for 2024, 2025, you know, something like that."

The issue is that until they have at least mockups and drawings of what a new Atrium would look like and an idea of a construction timeline, it's hard to bid on those events. However, once they have those pieces, their intent is to bid on events even before the hotel is built.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639410253232.jpeg" alt="LeeAnnAgain.jpeg" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 2021 was a better year for tourism than 2020, but there's still work to do."2020 was a rough year across the board for everybody," said LeeAnn Cox with Visit Hutch. "2021, we did rebound a little bit. We certainly hoped that we would. Some of our partners here in the Hutchinson and Reno County area did a tremendous job in continuing to find ways to host events. We saw that. The hotels felt that impact, which they desperately needed. Coming off of the year prior with COVID, the hotel industry was probably the worst hit of all. I think we should all count ourselves lucky that we didn't lose any hotels."There is still a lack of hotel rooms in Hutchinson."It hampers our ability to go to national shows, garner leads on events that we want to bid on," Cox said. "We can't come back and put a package together that's attractive to those rights holders. We just don't have the quantity of hotel rooms that are needed."It's important to note that any hotel project the Atrium's size would likely stretch over more than a year, even without the additional hoops required by having a government entity in ownership. Nevertheless, it's even farther out than that construction timeline for events that are currently being booked."We are typically three years out when you go through the bid process," Cox said. "Those rights holders want to have host locations identified multiple years out. If we're going to a show in 2022 say, in the spring, we'll be bidding on events for 2024, 2025, you know, something like that."The issue is that until they have at least mockups and drawings of what a new Atrium would look like and an idea of a construction timeline, it's hard to bid on those events. However, once they have those pieces, their intent is to bid on events even before the hotel is built.

2021 had some bounce back, Visit Hutch looking forward to Atrium project

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A local Hutchinson business is creating a virtual storefront to sell furniture and mattresses using many forms of payment including cryptocurrency.

"It is a brand-new e-commerce business for us," said owner Kevin Rule with <a href="http://cryptofurniturestore.com">cryptofurniturestore.com</a>. "We've been looking for the appropriate site for this. With Eagle Media, we worked on branding and promotion then launched cryptofurniturestore.com."

If you're looking for furniture, mattresses and accessories for your home but don't want to lose value on exchanging crypto back to traditional currency, this will add a lot of value for you.

"We currently accept six different cryptocurrencies," Rule said.

They're starting with this internet-based venture in an effort to put their Midwestern values on a worldwide storefront.

"What we've done is try to really simplify the process. We price our items in U.S. dollars, how much you can buy this barstool or how much you can buy this home accent for in U.S. dollars," Rule said. "Then you convert your crypto assets at checkout to complete your sale. We also have free financing available. We have other options such as Google Pay and Facebook Pay. We're just bringing Midwest, hometown values to the consumer and showing them different ways that they can use the money they currently have, without being told they have to put it back into a checking or savings account."

You can also pay with a credit card, if that's what you prefer. There is nationwide free shipping on all items, and the turnaround time is still very good.

"We're going to drop ship many items directly from our factories. Our technology updates what’s in stock and ready to go today. We update the site often so inventory availability is pretty much real-time. We continue to add new items on a daily basis"

Cryptofurniturestore.com is the third storefront that Rule is running in the midst of the pandemic as he purchased Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery in downtown Hutchinson, Kansas almost 4 years ago and then opened Furniture and Mattress Clearance Center in January 2021 prior to Crypto Furniture Store. Rule's goal is to make it so that crypto can become a way to purchase from all of these brands. All stores offer a wide variety of quality furniture for every room in your home.

"We can take our Brand out of the clogged online runway," Rule said. "We can put ourselves over here with some creativity. It doesn't cost any more for the consumer. Our products are equal to or lower priced than everything else on the market, we're just allowing this additional opportunity for the consumer to pay for their products. We really try to be the least stressful part of furnishing your home.”

If you'd like more information, email Kevin at <a href="mailto:sales@cryptofurniturestore.com">sales@cryptofurniturestore.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639395988385.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A local Hutchinson business is creating a virtual storefront to sell furniture and mattresses using many forms of payment including cryptocurrency."It is a brand-new e-commerce business for us," said owner Kevin Rule with <a href="http://cryptofurniturestore.com">cryptofurniturestore.com</a>. "We've been looking for the appropriate site for this. With Eagle Media, we worked on branding and promotion then launched cryptofurniturestore.com."If you're looking for furniture, mattresses and accessories for your home but don't want to lose value on exchanging crypto back to traditional currency, this will add a lot of value for you."We currently accept six different cryptocurrencies," Rule said.They're starting with this internet-based venture in an effort to put their Midwestern values on a worldwide storefront."What we've done is try to really simplify the process. We price our items in U.S. dollars, how much you can buy this barstool or how much you can buy this home accent for in U.S. dollars," Rule said. "Then you convert your crypto assets at checkout to complete your sale. We also have free financing available. We have other options such as Google Pay and Facebook Pay. We're just bringing Midwest, hometown values to the consumer and showing them different ways that they can use the money they currently have, without being told they have to put it back into a checking or savings account."You can also pay with a credit card, if that's what you prefer. There is nationwide free shipping on all items, and the turnaround time is still very good."We're going to drop ship many items directly from our factories. Our technology updates what’s in stock and ready to go today. We update the site often so inventory availability is pretty much real-time. We continue to add new items on a daily basis"Cryptofurniturestore.com is the third storefront that Rule is running in the midst of the pandemic as he purchased Sleep Shoppe and Furniture Gallery in downtown Hutchinson, Kansas almost 4 years ago and then opened Furniture and Mattress Clearance Center in January 2021 prior to Crypto Furniture Store. Rule's goal is to make it so that crypto can become a way to purchase from all of these brands. All stores offer a wide variety of quality furniture for every room in your home."We can take our Brand out of the clogged online runway," Rule said. "We can put ourselves over here with some creativity. It doesn't cost any more for the consumer. Our products are equal to or lower priced than everything else on the market, we're just allowing this additional opportunity for the consumer to pay for their products. We really try to be the least stressful part of furnishing your home.”If you'd like more information, email Kevin at <a href="mailto:sales@cryptofurniturestore.com">sales@cryptofurniturestore.com</a>.

Hutchinson furniture store now selling using cryptocurrency


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With the announcement that Keith Urban's tour stop in Wichita coincides with the second Saturday night of the Kansas State Fair, that creates some issues for scheduling a grandstand show that night.

"We just got back from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions convention," said Bryan Schulz. "There was four staff, myself and three of our board members went down there. We had an opportunity to meet with our entertainment buyers and started looking at things. Obviously, we were already in the row of finding some things. With this announcement, we have been able to shift from what we thought we might do on that Saturday night to different entertainment. We'll just make it work."

The State Fair's grandstand show budget isn't that large, when you're spreading it over the whole event.

"We have about $650,000 to $675,000, when you start taking that over ten days, that kind of dwindles down." Schulz said. "The Blake Sheltons, the Miranda Lamberts, KISS, ZZ Top, those might be a little tough to get in at the Kansas State Fair right now."

The key is figuring out who will be big and booking them early, which is an art in itself.

"Going after those ones that are starting to peak and getting them in at the dollar amounts that we can afford," Schulz said. "I remember, when I was at a previous fair, our agency said, hey Bryan, we've got this opportunity for Zac Brown Band. I said, okay. That's when Chicken Fried was just coming out. I said, okay, what do you think we can get them for? Well, about $27,000 is what I think we'll pay for them. Let's try it. By the time it got to be fair time, they were asking $200,000 to $250,000. It's when you can get in on that ground level and be able to lock it in, that's fantastic."

Schulz further explained that if an act will have a show in the region before the one at the Fair, sometimes announcements of acts have to be delayed, in an effort not to negatively impact the other close in show's date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626269696039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With the announcement that Keith Urban's tour stop in Wichita coincides with the second Saturday night of the Kansas State Fair, that creates some issues for scheduling a grandstand show that night."We just got back from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions convention," said Bryan Schulz. "There was four staff, myself and three of our board members went down there. We had an opportunity to meet with our entertainment buyers and started looking at things. Obviously, we were already in the row of finding some things. With this announcement, we have been able to shift from what we thought we might do on that Saturday night to different entertainment. We'll just make it work."The State Fair's grandstand show budget isn't that large, when you're spreading it over the whole event."We have about $650,000 to $675,000, when you start taking that over ten days, that kind of dwindles down." Schulz said. "The Blake Sheltons, the Miranda Lamberts, KISS, ZZ Top, those might be a little tough to get in at the Kansas State Fair right now."The key is figuring out who will be big and booking them early, which is an art in itself."Going after those ones that are starting to peak and getting them in at the dollar amounts that we can afford," Schulz said. "I remember, when I was at a previous fair, our agency said, hey Bryan, we've got this opportunity for Zac Brown Band. I said, okay. That's when Chicken Fried was just coming out. I said, okay, what do you think we can get them for? Well, about $27,000 is what I think we'll pay for them. Let's try it. By the time it got to be fair time, they were asking $200,000 to $250,000. It's when you can get in on that ground level and be able to lock it in, that's fantastic."Schulz further explained that if an act will have a show in the region before the one at the Fair, sometimes announcements of acts have to be delayed, in an effort not to negatively impact the other close in show's date.

Missing fair, competing acts will complicate Grandstand booking in 2022

After devastating tornadoes ripped through four states Friday and Saturday, the American Red Cross is beginning its work to support large relief efforts to help those most affected, as well as supplying blood products to area hospitals in need.

“Right now, the need is great,” said Steve Cunanan, regional executive of the Kentucky Red Cross. “I’ve seen firsthand that there has been so much devastation. People lost loved ones, their homes, everything is just gone for them. We’re moving as quickly as we can to get much needed disaster relief and blood products to area hospitals in these communities that are unrecognizable now.”

With more volunteers and supplies moving into the affected areas in the coming days, the Red Cross is working around the clock with partners to make sure everyone has a safe place to stay, emotional support and comfort in the face of one of the most devastating tornado outbreaks in years. Saturday night, there were at least eight emergency shelters open in Kentucky, where about 190 people sought safe refuge. Shelters are also open in Tennessee.

Red Cross volunteers are also helping to assess the damage in affected communities as areas become accessible to help determine how many families were affected and what types of help they may need in the coming days and weeks.

In response to hospital requests, the Red Cross has provided approximately 200 additional blood products for patients in the impacted areas and stands ready to provide more blood products as needed. 

Prior to the tornado outbreak, the nation was already facing historically low blood supply challenges and more donors are needed to ensure a readily available blood supply. Red Cross blood drives in affected communities may be canceled or experience lower donor turnout in the coming days, further straining blood inventory levels.

Those in areas unaffected by this tornado outbreak are urged to make an appointment today to give blood in the days and weeks ahead to help ensure blood products are available for patients wherever the need arises.

Through its national inventory, the Red Cross can distribute blood whenever and wherever it is needed. Blood can take up to three days to be tested, processed and made available for patients, so it’s the blood already on the shelves that helps save lives in an emergency.

YOU CAN HELP people affected by disasters like tornadoes and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. To make a financial donation or schedule an appointment to give blood or platelets, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. You can also use the Red Cross Blood Donor app or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 gift today. Every single contribution matters. Your donation is a commitment to helping people in need and enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. 

For those interested in helping people specifically affected by the recent tornadoes, we ask that they write “Southern and Midwest Tornadoes” in the memo line of a check and mail it with a completed donation form to the address on the form or their local Red Cross chapter.

There are local blood drives in the area on Monday at CrossPoint Church at 1410 East 30th from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and on Friday at St. Peter's United Church of Christ in Inman from Noon to 6 p.m. and at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633973078239.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from American Red CrossAfter devastating tornadoes ripped through four states Friday and Saturday, the American Red Cross is beginning its work to support large relief efforts to help those most affected, as well as supplying blood products to area hospitals in need.“Right now, the need is great,” said Steve Cunanan, regional executive of the Kentucky Red Cross. “I’ve seen firsthand that there has been so much devastation. People lost loved ones, their homes, everything is just gone for them. We’re moving as quickly as we can to get much needed disaster relief and blood products to area hospitals in these communities that are unrecognizable now.”With more volunteers and supplies moving into the affected areas in the coming days, the Red Cross is working around the clock with partners to make sure everyone has a safe place to stay, emotional support and comfort in the face of one of the most devastating tornado outbreaks in years. Saturday night, there were at least eight emergency shelters open in Kentucky, where about 190 people sought safe refuge. Shelters are also open in Tennessee.Red Cross volunteers are also helping to assess the damage in affected communities as areas become accessible to help determine how many families were affected and what types of help they may need in the coming days and weeks.In response to hospital requests, the Red Cross has provided approximately 200 additional blood products for patients in the impacted areas and stands ready to provide more blood products as needed. Prior to the tornado outbreak, the nation was already facing historically low blood supply challenges and more donors are needed to ensure a readily available blood supply. Red Cross blood drives in affected communities may be canceled or experience lower donor turnout in the coming days, further straining blood inventory levels.Those in areas unaffected by this tornado outbreak are urged to make an appointment today to give blood in the days and weeks ahead to help ensure blood products are available for patients wherever the need arises.Through its national inventory, the Red Cross can distribute blood whenever and wherever it is needed. Blood can take up to three days to be tested, processed and made available for patients, so it’s the blood already on the shelves that helps save lives in an emergency.YOU CAN HELP people affected by disasters like tornadoes and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. To make a financial donation or schedule an appointment to give blood or platelets, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. You can also use the Red Cross Blood Donor app or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 gift today. Every single contribution matters. Your donation is a commitment to helping people in need and enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. For those interested in helping people specifically affected by the recent tornadoes, we ask that they write “Southern and Midwest Tornadoes” in the memo line of a check and mail it with a completed donation form to the address on the form or their local Red Cross chapter.There are local blood drives in the area on Monday at CrossPoint Church at 1410 East 30th from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and on Friday at St. Peter's United Church of Christ in Inman from Noon to 6 p.m. and at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Red Cross helping tornado victims; local blood drives this week


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Dr. Rex Degner, Chief Medical Officer at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System believes getting a COVID-19 booster is a good idea for those who have already been vaccinated.

"I do believe that boosters are a very reasonable thing," Degner said. "I received my booster in October, as have the rest of my family. I think that they are very safe. I think that they do help the overall situation, both personally and as a community."

Degner strongly encourages boosters if it has been more than six months since your second COVID-19 shot, if you had a two-shot series, or more than two months if you received the one shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

"Omicron, the jury is still out on that," Degner said. "It appears initially, right now, that it may be a little bit more infectious, more people may get it than the other variants but it appears to be less virulent and they may not be getting as sick. That's the good news."

Viruses attempt to become more diverse in an effort to stay alive, and Degner expects that with COVID-19, as well. 

"I believe that we're switching from a pandemic, which was the initial big push of all of the COVID, to COVID now being what we call endemic," Degner said. "It's in the community. It's in the world. It's in the state and it probably is never going to completely go away, so the idea will be to mitigate it as much as possible, so as people get vaccinated, as people get natural immunity, it will help knock down the spread, so it won't be as severe."

Degner expects there may be booster recommendations in future years, just like people are encouraged to get their flu shot.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604662016880.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Dr. Rex Degner, Chief Medical Officer at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System believes getting a COVID-19 booster is a good idea for those who have already been vaccinated."I do believe that boosters are a very reasonable thing," Degner said. "I received my booster in October, as have the rest of my family. I think that they are very safe. I think that they do help the overall situation, both personally and as a community."Degner strongly encourages boosters if it has been more than six months since your second COVID-19 shot, if you had a two-shot series, or more than two months if you received the one shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine."Omicron, the jury is still out on that," Degner said. "It appears initially, right now, that it may be a little bit more infectious, more people may get it than the other variants but it appears to be less virulent and they may not be getting as sick. That's the good news."Viruses attempt to become more diverse in an effort to stay alive, and Degner expects that with COVID-19, as well. "I believe that we're switching from a pandemic, which was the initial big push of all of the COVID, to COVID now being what we call endemic," Degner said. "It's in the community. It's in the world. It's in the state and it probably is never going to completely go away, so the idea will be to mitigate it as much as possible, so as people get vaccinated, as people get natural immunity, it will help knock down the spread, so it won't be as severe."Degner expects there may be booster recommendations in future years, just like people are encouraged to get their flu shot.
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Hutchinson doctor recommends boosters for the COVID-19 vaccinated

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board will meet in regular session Monday evening.

The board will go over the usual consent agenda, which includes personnel matters and other business matters.&nbsp;

The board will also take action on a list of capital outlay projects and go into executive session for negotiations and a real estate matter.&nbsp;

The board will also get an update on the district's transportation and take action on bids for emergency lighting for one of the district's facilities.

Monday's Buhler school board meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the district offices in Buhler.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board will meet in regular session Monday evening.The board will go over the usual consent agenda, which includes personnel matters and other business matters.&nbsp;The board will also take action on a list of capital outlay projects and go into executive session for negotiations and a real estate matter.&nbsp;The board will also get an update on the district's transportation and take action on bids for emergency lighting for one of the district's facilities.Monday's Buhler school board meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the district offices in Buhler.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 313 School Board to meet Monday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer said they've promoted their new Fire Marshal.

"Mike Cain, which was under Tony, I promoted him last week to the new Fire Marshal position," Beer said. "Mike's position, inspector, fire investigator, I did hire a person for that position already, so that position is filled. That gentleman starts here, right after the first of the year."

The Fire Marshal in a city Hutchinson's size has a lot of duties.

"He probably wears seven different hats for this community," Beer said. "Each and every day they come and work and get thrown into seven different directions. A lot of their stuff is site plans, they are all reviewed. We're working with all kinds of data that they have to do reports. They do all the state reports for anything with arson. They work with the police department detectives on cases. They are just thrown into a vast array and on top of that, all the 2800 fire inspections that have to be done throughout the city. They get thrown in and then in the middle of the night, they get called in at 2 a.m., 3 a.m. to investigate a fire, or any time of the day."

Current Fire Marshal Tony Arpin is retiring at the end of 2021.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Chief Steve Beer said they've promoted their new Fire Marshal."Mike Cain, which was under Tony, I promoted him last week to the new Fire Marshal position," Beer said. "Mike's position, inspector, fire investigator, I did hire a person for that position already, so that position is filled. That gentleman starts here, right after the first of the year."The Fire Marshal in a city Hutchinson's size has a lot of duties."He probably wears seven different hats for this community," Beer said. "Each and every day they come and work and get thrown into seven different directions. A lot of their stuff is site plans, they are all reviewed. We're working with all kinds of data that they have to do reports. They do all the state reports for anything with arson. They work with the police department detectives on cases. They are just thrown into a vast array and on top of that, all the 2800 fire inspections that have to be done throughout the city. They get thrown in and then in the middle of the night, they get called in at 2 a.m., 3 a.m. to investigate a fire, or any time of the day."Current Fire Marshal Tony Arpin is retiring at the end of 2021.
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Cain promoted at HFD


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday will have several potentially newsworthy issues on the agenda.

The updates to the comprehensive plan and the amendments to the zoning regulations regarding wind farms are on the agenda, as is the protested planning case regarding the quarry for Mid-States Materials where action by the commission, if they choose to allow the case to go forward, may be legally challenged.

Also on the agenda are the recommendations for the 2021 Wage Study for the county and the health department's responses to the questions raised by Reno County Commissioner Daniel Friesen regarding the county's response to COVID-19.

A number of those items have had at least some serious pushback from one commissioner or another over the course of 2021. There is also the chance that a recommendation on the county counselor's position could be added to the agenda, as those interviews took place Friday.

The Board of Reno County Commissioners meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the Reno County Annex.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Board of Reno County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday will have several potentially newsworthy issues on the agenda.The updates to the comprehensive plan and the amendments to the zoning regulations regarding wind farms are on the agenda, as is the protested planning case regarding the quarry for Mid-States Materials where action by the commission, if they choose to allow the case to go forward, may be legally challenged.Also on the agenda are the recommendations for the 2021 Wage Study for the county and the health department's responses to the questions raised by Reno County Commissioner Daniel Friesen regarding the county's response to COVID-19.A number of those items have had at least some serious pushback from one commissioner or another over the course of 2021. There is also the chance that a recommendation on the county counselor's position could be added to the agenda, as those interviews took place Friday.The Board of Reno County Commissioners meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the Reno County Annex.

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