
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar asked for a longer extension of the county's emergency declaration on Tuesday than the agenda originally called for.

"What I'm actually going to request this morning is an extension for 60 days," Weishaar said. "All the way back on March 19, 2020, Reno County declared a public health emergency and that was extended several times, to end up expiring on June 31, 2021. June 31, 2021, we had nine active cases in the county. We weren't requesting resources from the state. Things were pretty calm. Now, our case count has picked up significantly and we are now requesting resources from the state."

As Weishaar has explained before, it's those resource requests that are the reason the county needs an emergency declaration in place.

"Some of those resources that we've requested recently include ventilators for the hospital, ventilator arms, testing supplies for our jail, testing supplies for our schools," Weishaar said. "Usually, the county is not allowed to request resources from the state, unless we have a local disaster declaration in place."

The state had been flexible about that previously, but Weishaar doesn't want to take any chances if resources continue to tighten.

"What's going to happen when the flu and COVID get here, what are our numbers going to do?" Weishaar said. "We don't know. I'd rather have the disaster declaration in place to clear the supply lines and clear the help from the state and federal government and leave it in place as long as we need it, but if our case count goes down and we're not requesting resources from the state, by all means, that can expire sooner."

The commission passed the proposal unanimously.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar asked for a longer extension of the county's emergency declaration on Tuesday than the agenda originally called for."What I'm actually going to request this morning is an extension for 60 days," Weishaar said. "All the way back on March 19, 2020, Reno County declared a public health emergency and that was extended several times, to end up expiring on June 31, 2021. June 31, 2021, we had nine active cases in the county. We weren't requesting resources from the state. Things were pretty calm. Now, our case count has picked up significantly and we are now requesting resources from the state."As Weishaar has explained before, it's those resource requests that are the reason the county needs an emergency declaration in place."Some of those resources that we've requested recently include ventilators for the hospital, ventilator arms, testing supplies for our jail, testing supplies for our schools," Weishaar said. "Usually, the county is not allowed to request resources from the state, unless we have a local disaster declaration in place."The state had been flexible about that previously, but Weishaar doesn't want to take any chances if resources continue to tighten."What's going to happen when the flu and COVID get here, what are our numbers going to do?" Weishaar said. "We don't know. I'd rather have the disaster declaration in place to clear the supply lines and clear the help from the state and federal government and leave it in place as long as we need it, but if our case count goes down and we're not requesting resources from the state, by all means, that can expire sooner."The commission passed the proposal unanimously.

Emergency declaration extended for 60 days

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Because of the large number of quarantines involving USD 308 students and staff, the Hutchinson School Board made changes to its COVID policies during Monday’s meeting.&nbsp;

“We’ve had about 400 quarantines so far this school year,” Superintendent Mike Folks said. “With the mask mandate and with the goal and priority of keeping kids in school and keeping everyone safe, it (quarantines) would be disruptive to our educational environment.”

Folks says those numbers and the challenges facing both students and parents with the continuous disruptions in school necessitated the change. Under the new policy, if a student is exposed at school, parents will have some say in whether their child goes to class or not.

“I’ve visited with a lot of medical people and also the Kansas State Department of Education and the Kansas Association of School Boards and felt like the board had local control to give parents an option,” Folks said. “If they want to quarantine, we’ll let them work with the Reno County Health Department.”

What that means is, if a parent wants to send their child to school, making sure they are symptom free and wearing a mask, the student can attend class. If the exposure happens outside the school, such as at home, then parents must work with the health department and quarantine the student.

Folks says that doing testing of students and staff is not a viable option because of the large school population. Folks also said that the positive test rate for the district is low.

“We’re not doing test-to-stay because we’ve got 5,000 students and staff and the large districts that have tried to do test-and-stay have really had logistical challenges,” Folks said. “What I can tell you is that we've had about 80 positives (COVID cases) for students and staff since the beginning of the year, but we’ve had 400 quarantines.” That means less than 2% of the students and staff are known to have had, or currently have, COVID.

The matter was a last-minute addition to the school board meeting on Monday night. A complete copy of the current policy is available at <a href="https://www.usd308.com/article/527528?fbclid=IwAR18fPj8oLEg6DMkbqPJr40P4US00XbzEPVagaNHu9MD73zjkm4d49ftpcU">usd308.com</a>.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Because of the large number of quarantines involving USD 308 students and staff, the Hutchinson School Board made changes to its COVID policies during Monday’s meeting.&nbsp;“We’ve had about 400 quarantines so far this school year,” Superintendent Mike Folks said. “With the mask mandate and with the goal and priority of keeping kids in school and keeping everyone safe, it (quarantines) would be disruptive to our educational environment.”Folks says those numbers and the challenges facing both students and parents with the continuous disruptions in school necessitated the change. Under the new policy, if a student is exposed at school, parents will have some say in whether their child goes to class or not.“I’ve visited with a lot of medical people and also the Kansas State Department of Education and the Kansas Association of School Boards and felt like the board had local control to give parents an option,” Folks said. “If they want to quarantine, we’ll let them work with the Reno County Health Department.”What that means is, if a parent wants to send their child to school, making sure they are symptom free and wearing a mask, the student can attend class. If the exposure happens outside the school, such as at home, then parents must work with the health department and quarantine the student.Folks says that doing testing of students and staff is not a viable option because of the large school population. Folks also said that the positive test rate for the district is low.“We’re not doing test-to-stay because we’ve got 5,000 students and staff and the large districts that have tried to do test-and-stay have really had logistical challenges,” Folks said. “What I can tell you is that we've had about 80 positives (COVID cases) for students and staff since the beginning of the year, but we’ve had 400 quarantines.” That means less than 2% of the students and staff are known to have had, or currently have, COVID.The matter was a last-minute addition to the school board meeting on Monday night. A complete copy of the current policy is available at <a href="https://www.usd308.com/article/527528?fbclid=IwAR18fPj8oLEg6DMkbqPJr40P4US00XbzEPVagaNHu9MD73zjkm4d49ftpcU">usd308.com</a>.<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 308 changes its COVID policy 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab visited Hutchinson Tuesday to speak to a Republican Party gathering.

"We want confidence in our election systems," Schwab said. "This is a part of that. They've invited us to come out. We had to switch days due to a conflict, so we're coming out today. It's my second trip to Hutchinson and Reno County this week."

Keeping ballots secure is something Schwab wanted to make a greater effort in.

"Some of the things that we're trying to do is update systems," Schwab said. "We did get a lot of federal dollars, so some of the simple things we did were drop boxes for mail ballots. There were county clerks in Kansas receiving ballots through the mail as late as March of this year for the last November election, so we really wanted to encourage folks, don't mail your ballot, drop it off in a drop box."

Schwab said it's important that elections continue to be run at the state level, because it is more efficient.

"From our standpoint, we can't afford it," Schwab said. "I think, if we don't want federal elections to be run through D.C., then they also need to be funded locally, which Kansas does. Some of my colleagues across the country are asking for money, but not the legislation. I say, let's just say no to both of them. One of the problems they have is they are increasing the amount of early day voting. What we do is we allow local control. So, we may have a county, let's say Grant County, doesn't need 20 days of staff plus rent of early voting. They only need a couple because they don't have the population. The chair of the elections committee is out of Los Angeles. She has a Los Angeles population mentality of Grant County, Kansas. That law that might work good in L.A., is not going to work in rural America."

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab visited Hutchinson Tuesday to speak to a Republican Party gathering."We want confidence in our election systems," Schwab said. "This is a part of that. They've invited us to come out. We had to switch days due to a conflict, so we're coming out today. It's my second trip to Hutchinson and Reno County this week."Keeping ballots secure is something Schwab wanted to make a greater effort in."Some of the things that we're trying to do is update systems," Schwab said. "We did get a lot of federal dollars, so some of the simple things we did were drop boxes for mail ballots. There were county clerks in Kansas receiving ballots through the mail as late as March of this year for the last November election, so we really wanted to encourage folks, don't mail your ballot, drop it off in a drop box."Schwab said it's important that elections continue to be run at the state level, because it is more efficient."From our standpoint, we can't afford it," Schwab said. "I think, if we don't want federal elections to be run through D.C., then they also need to be funded locally, which Kansas does. Some of my colleagues across the country are asking for money, but not the legislation. I say, let's just say no to both of them. One of the problems they have is they are increasing the amount of early day voting. What we do is we allow local control. So, we may have a county, let's say Grant County, doesn't need 20 days of staff plus rent of early voting. They only need a couple because they don't have the population. The chair of the elections committee is out of Los Angeles. She has a Los Angeles population mentality of Grant County, Kansas. That law that might work good in L.A., is not going to work in rural America."The full interview with Schwab is below.<div><iframe title="BONUS PODCAST: Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=sfebu-10dd90f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

Schwab: Trips across the state important to keep confidence in elections

PRATT COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Tuesday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Ford Explorer driven by Jason S. Contreras, 40, Ulysses, was west bound on U.S. 54. The SUV left the road way to the south, came back onto the roadway, exited again to the south and rolled into a field.

EMS transported Contreras to the hospital in Pratt. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592740476032.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>PRATT COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Tuesday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Ford Explorer driven by Jason S. Contreras, 40, Ulysses, was west bound on U.S. 54. The SUV left the road way to the south, came back onto the roadway, exited again to the south and rolled into a field.EMS transported Contreras to the hospital in Pratt. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized after SUV rolls into field

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Crews responded to the grandstand area at the Kansas State Fair around 10 a.m. for a fire.

Kansas Highway Patrol advised flames and smoke were visible from the south end of the Grandstands. Fire was located in a vendor space that sold T-shirts and leather goods, called European Leather. Bystanders used fire extinguishers to knock down the flames prior to fire department arrival. Firefighters overhauled the area and extinguished hot spots. Fire damage was limited to the affected booth space.

Fire crews remained on scene for several hours assisting the vendor in removing salvageable items. Investigation found the cause to be a faulty extension cord. Other vendors in the area remained closed as the cleanup continued. Fire Department personnel along with City of Hutchinson Street Department and Kansas State Fair employees worked to clean the affected area to allow vendors to reoccupy.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Health was called in to evaluate the food vendors in the grandstand. All food vendors have been allowed to reopen and vendors in the south part of the grandstand were allowed to move back into their spaces.

<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/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Crews responded to the grandstand area at the Kansas State Fair around 10 a.m. for a fire.Kansas Highway Patrol advised flames and smoke were visible from the south end of the Grandstands. Fire was located in a vendor space that sold T-shirts and leather goods, called European Leather. Bystanders used fire extinguishers to knock down the flames prior to fire department arrival. Firefighters overhauled the area and extinguished hot spots. Fire damage was limited to the affected booth space.Fire crews remained on scene for several hours assisting the vendor in removing salvageable items. Investigation found the cause to be a faulty extension cord. Other vendors in the area remained closed as the cleanup continued. Fire Department personnel along with City of Hutchinson Street Department and Kansas State Fair employees worked to clean the affected area to allow vendors to reoccupy.&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health was called in to evaluate the food vendors in the grandstand. All food vendors have been allowed to reopen and vendors in the south part of the grandstand were allowed to move back into their spaces.<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;

Fire causes minor damage to display booth at the Kansas State Fair grandstand


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners made two motions regarding wind farms on Tuesday.

"I would move to declare a moratorium on any industrial Commercial Wind Energy Conversion Systems (CWECS) in Reno County through December 27, 2021 and direct staff and the planning commission to draft and provide notice of a public hearing for a separate zoning regulation text agreement prohibiting industrial CWECS in the present zoned area for commissioners consideration," said chairman Ron Hirst.

That motion passed 3-0. A second motion about the rest of the county is as follows.

"I would move the planning commission draft and provide notice of a public hearing for the introduction of a special zoning district, limited only to industrial CWECS in the present unzoned areas of Reno County for board of commissioners consideration on December 27, 2021."

Friesen did not support the zoning overlay for the rest of the county, but that motion passed 2-1.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners made two motions regarding wind farms on Tuesday."I would move to declare a moratorium on any industrial Commercial Wind Energy Conversion Systems (CWECS) in Reno County through December 27, 2021 and direct staff and the planning commission to draft and provide notice of a public hearing for a separate zoning regulation text agreement prohibiting industrial CWECS in the present zoned area for commissioners consideration," said chairman Ron Hirst.That motion passed 3-0. A second motion about the rest of the county is as follows."I would move the planning commission draft and provide notice of a public hearing for the introduction of a special zoning district, limited only to industrial CWECS in the present unzoned areas of Reno County for board of commissioners consideration on December 27, 2021."Friesen did not support the zoning overlay for the rest of the county, but that motion passed 2-1.

County commission puts moratorium on wind for now

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Reno County will host a forum for the candidates vying for election to the Hutchinson City Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The forum is set for&nbsp; Monday, October 11 at 6:00 p.m. at the Hutchinson Community College Shears Technology Center, 1300 N. Plum.&nbsp; Participating candidates include Greg Fast and Brock Wells (Southwest District); Jill Gumble and Jon Richardson (Northwest District); and Sara Bagwell, Marla Jean Booher and Charles Johnston (At-Large District).

Logan Leuenberger, Board Chair for the Young Professionals of Reno County, will act as the moderator.&nbsp; Candidates will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements and during the question and answer period, candidates will be given a limited time to answer in order to keep the forum moving.&nbsp; No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however, questions can be submitted in advance to <a href="http://chelseyd@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a>.&nbsp;

There is no cost to attend. Members of the Chamber and Young Professionals, as well as the general public are encouraged to attend.&nbsp;

For more information, contact Chelsey Dawson at <a href="http://chelsey@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a> or (620) 662-3391.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625686816585.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Reno County will host a forum for the candidates vying for election to the Hutchinson City Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;The forum is set for&nbsp; Monday, October 11 at 6:00 p.m. at the Hutchinson Community College Shears Technology Center, 1300 N. Plum.&nbsp; Participating candidates include Greg Fast and Brock Wells (Southwest District); Jill Gumble and Jon Richardson (Northwest District); and Sara Bagwell, Marla Jean Booher and Charles Johnston (At-Large District).Logan Leuenberger, Board Chair for the Young Professionals of Reno County, will act as the moderator.&nbsp; Candidates will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements and during the question and answer period, candidates will be given a limited time to answer in order to keep the forum moving.&nbsp; No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however, questions can be submitted in advance to <a href="http://chelseyd@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a>.&nbsp;There is no cost to attend. Members of the Chamber and Young Professionals, as well as the general public are encouraged to attend.&nbsp;For more information, contact Chelsey Dawson at <a href="http://chelsey@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a> or (620) 662-3391.<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;

City candidate forum Oct. 11

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Business-minded teens high school students are invited to participate in the virtual Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge on November 23. The event is hosted by StartUp Hutch.&nbsp;

Jackson Swearer of StartUp Hutch says the challenge is a way to raise awareness about the power and potential of entrepreneurship, and increase youth confidence.

The competition will be judged by a panel of local entrepreneurs, and prizes will be awarded.

In addition to the prize money and recognition at the Reno County competition, first-place competitors will also have the opportunity to compete in the Kansas Entrepreneurship Challenge held at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This event will include the top young entrepreneurs from schools across the state.&nbsp;

For more information, and to register, visit: <a href="http://Goventuredash.com/competitions/152">Goventuredash.com/competitions/152</a>. Contact Dave Dukart at <a href="http://dave@startuphutch.com">dave@startuphutch.com</a> or Jackson Swearer at <a href="http://jackson@startuphutch.com">jackson@startuphutch.com</a> or call 620-665-3319 for more information.

This event is sponsored by StartUp Hutch, NetWork Kansas, The College of Business Administration at The Center for the Advancement of Entrepreneurship, Kansas Freemasons, and the Kansas Entrepreneurial Challenge.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631637493615.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Business-minded teens high school students are invited to participate in the virtual Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge on November 23. The event is hosted by StartUp Hutch.&nbsp;Jackson Swearer of StartUp Hutch says the challenge is a way to raise awareness about the power and potential of entrepreneurship, and increase youth confidence.The competition will be judged by a panel of local entrepreneurs, and prizes will be awarded.In addition to the prize money and recognition at the Reno County competition, first-place competitors will also have the opportunity to compete in the Kansas Entrepreneurship Challenge held at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This event will include the top young entrepreneurs from schools across the state.&nbsp;For more information, and to register, visit: <a href="http://Goventuredash.com/competitions/152">Goventuredash.com/competitions/152</a>. Contact Dave Dukart at <a href="http://dave@startuphutch.com">dave@startuphutch.com</a> or Jackson Swearer at <a href="http://jackson@startuphutch.com">jackson@startuphutch.com</a> or call 620-665-3319 for more information.This event is sponsored by StartUp Hutch, NetWork Kansas, The College of Business Administration at The Center for the Advancement of Entrepreneurship, Kansas Freemasons, and the Kansas Entrepreneurial Challenge.&nbsp;&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;

StartUp Hutch to offer youth Entrepreneurship Challenge

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education hosted its first school-based meeting of 2021 at Lincoln Elementary School on Monday (September 13, 2021).

Before the official meeting began, Board members took a tour of Lincoln Elementary, which was approved for redesign earlier this year.&nbsp;

“I think it’s an excellent opportunity for the board to connect with the staff and get to see not only what they’re working on but to get the physical environment,” Superintendent Mike Folks said. “It’s always great when we see a board member in the building. We feel like they’re connected.”

With many of the elementary schools completing or going through the state's redesign program the tours carry more significance.

“It gives an opportunity to see some of the physical changes,” Folks said.” Painting and signage and redesign things that are going on along with showing them the other things they’re doing in the classroom&nbsp; with students.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are appreciative to have the USD 308 School Board meeting at Lincoln. We feel this is a good way for our board members to see and hear about the specific goals and needs of each building throughout the year,” Darla Fisher, principal of Lincoln Elementary said.

The meetings at the district's schools were canceled last year due to the pandemic. Folks says they hope to do the complete tour of all buildings this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631637393616.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The USD 308 Board of Education hosted its first school-based meeting of 2021 at Lincoln Elementary School on Monday (September 13, 2021).Before the official meeting began, Board members took a tour of Lincoln Elementary, which was approved for redesign earlier this year.&nbsp;“I think it’s an excellent opportunity for the board to connect with the staff and get to see not only what they’re working on but to get the physical environment,” Superintendent Mike Folks said. “It’s always great when we see a board member in the building. We feel like they’re connected.”With many of the elementary schools completing or going through the state's redesign program the tours carry more significance.“It gives an opportunity to see some of the physical changes,” Folks said.” Painting and signage and redesign things that are going on along with showing them the other things they’re doing in the classroom&nbsp; with students.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The school staff appreciated the visit.“We are appreciative to have the USD 308 School Board meeting at Lincoln. We feel this is a good way for our board members to see and hear about the specific goals and needs of each building throughout the year,” Darla Fisher, principal of Lincoln Elementary said.The meetings at the district's schools were canceled last year due to the pandemic. Folks says they hope to do the complete tour of all buildings this year.<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;

School board tour Lincoln Elementary


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Health Department Data Analyst D.J. Gering sees his job as letting his department, policymakers and the community know of areas where they can focus their communication efforts so that the resources the county has are spent more efficiently.

"Reno County is getting more diverse," Gering said. "I would say right now, we could probably do more, especially when it comes to COVID vaccines with communicating to rural Reno County residents. There are a couple of census tracts in Reno County that have extremely low life expectancy rates. One is in the South Hutchinson area another one is in the south central Hutchinson area. We can look at that and try to discern reasons why those life expectancy rates are so low and do a better job at communicating or allocating resources to those areas, so that they can make health decisions that allow them to live longer lives."

It's too soon to tell how much COVID directly, or even indirect usage of medical resources for that purpose, have had an effect on life expectancy at a county level.

"We likely won't know for awhile what the COVID impact was on our life expectancy," Gering said. "Beyond the COVID deaths that we've had, we've also had an overwhelmed hospital at times, people that put off elective surgeries. All those types of things can contribute to other health conditions getting worse and lowering the life expectancy rate there, especially if you can't find a hospital bed."

Also, things like recreational drug use have been exacerbated by the stress of the pandemic, so it is hard to pin down all of those specific factors into one number yet. In addition, life expectancy rates were already on the decline between 2015 and 2017, so it remains to be seen if COVID changed that trend at all.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Health Department Data Analyst D.J. Gering sees his job as letting his department, policymakers and the community know of areas where they can focus their communication efforts so that the resources the county has are spent more efficiently."Reno County is getting more diverse," Gering said. "I would say right now, we could probably do more, especially when it comes to COVID vaccines with communicating to rural Reno County residents. There are a couple of census tracts in Reno County that have extremely low life expectancy rates. One is in the South Hutchinson area another one is in the south central Hutchinson area. We can look at that and try to discern reasons why those life expectancy rates are so low and do a better job at communicating or allocating resources to those areas, so that they can make health decisions that allow them to live longer lives."It's too soon to tell how much COVID directly, or even indirect usage of medical resources for that purpose, have had an effect on life expectancy at a county level."We likely won't know for awhile what the COVID impact was on our life expectancy," Gering said. "Beyond the COVID deaths that we've had, we've also had an overwhelmed hospital at times, people that put off elective surgeries. All those types of things can contribute to other health conditions getting worse and lowering the life expectancy rate there, especially if you can't find a hospital bed."Also, things like recreational drug use have been exacerbated by the stress of the pandemic, so it is hard to pin down all of those specific factors into one number yet. In addition, life expectancy rates were already on the decline between 2015 and 2017, so it remains to be seen if COVID changed that trend at all.

Gering: Data can help direct resources, but it takes time to compile


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt knows that Kansas can't go it alone when battling against what he perceives as federal government overreach.

"We work together closely with other states and generally we work with like-minded states, which tends to mean states with more conservative and Republican attorneys general," Schmidt said. "We have a similar view of the federal system. Sometimes, our Democrat friends have a very different view, as reflected in this vaccine mandate from the Biden administration."

It has been the policy of Schmidt's department to advocate strongly for the rights of states to govern themselves on any issues not specifically granted to Congress, rather than expanding federal regulations, like the WOTUS rule back when Barack Obama was president.

"We've already had occasion to sue the Biden administration several times," Schmidt said. "We've won a handful of those cases. We're going to keep pushing. We have to work together in order to push back on this almost dictatorial view of federal power that the Biden administration seems to have adopted."

It isn't clear yet which of his colleagues Schmidt will join when the time comes to litigate over vaccine mandates, but his office has made it clear that this is another area where they plan to vigorously defend the state's interests.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="Kansas AG Derek Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Kansas AG Derek Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt knows that Kansas can't go it alone when battling against what he perceives as federal government overreach."We work together closely with other states and generally we work with like-minded states, which tends to mean states with more conservative and Republican attorneys general," Schmidt said. "We have a similar view of the federal system. Sometimes, our Democrat friends have a very different view, as reflected in this vaccine mandate from the Biden administration."It has been the policy of Schmidt's department to advocate strongly for the rights of states to govern themselves on any issues not specifically granted to Congress, rather than expanding federal regulations, like the WOTUS rule back when Barack Obama was president."We've already had occasion to sue the Biden administration several times," Schmidt said. "We've won a handful of those cases. We're going to keep pushing. We have to work together in order to push back on this almost dictatorial view of federal power that the Biden administration seems to have adopted."It isn't clear yet which of his colleagues Schmidt will join when the time comes to litigate over vaccine mandates, but his office has made it clear that this is another area where they plan to vigorously defend the state's interests.

Schmidt: Work with other states key when litigating against federal overreach

STAFFORD COUNTY—School is closed this week in USD 350 St. John-Hudson due to increasing numbers of positive Covid cases and the shortage of staff and available substitutes, according to a social media report from the school district.

On Monday, the school board met in a special meeting&nbsp; to discuss a shutdown.

There is no remote learning this week and meals will not be served.

 School and school activities will resume on September 20th.  Covid testing for students will be available on a limited basis, according to the school district.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627498356825.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>STAFFORD COUNTY—School is closed this week in USD 350 St. John-Hudson due to increasing numbers of positive Covid cases and the shortage of staff and available substitutes, according to a social media report from the school district.On Monday, the school board met in a special meeting&nbsp; to discuss a shutdown.There is no remote learning this week and meals will not be served. School and school activities will resume on September 20th. Covid testing for students will be available on a limited basis, according to the school district.

COVID, staff shortage shut down St. John-Hudson schools


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 650 as of Monday, which is roughly the same level as it was the week before Christmas 2020.

Reno County has recorded its 150th COVID-related death. The county recorded its 50th death in late November and its 100th between Christmas and New Year's.

Of the 8,660 cases with a resolution (either recovery or death), 1.7% have died.

The 650 current active cases equal almost 7% of all the confirmed cases in Reno County throughout the pandemic.

Of the 63 patients in Hutchinson Regional as of Monday, 13 have COVID, three of those were vaccinated and none of the vaccinated have either been put on respiratory support or are in the ICU.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 650 as of Monday, which is roughly the same level as it was the week before Christmas 2020.Reno County has recorded its 150th COVID-related death. The county recorded its 50th death in late November and its 100th between Christmas and New Year's.Of the 8,660 cases with a resolution (either recovery or death), 1.7% have died.The 650 current active cases equal almost 7% of all the confirmed cases in Reno County throughout the pandemic.Of the 63 patients in Hutchinson Regional as of Monday, 13 have COVID, three of those were vaccinated and none of the vaccinated have either been put on respiratory support or are in the ICU.

Hospital updates weekly numbers, overall case count at 650, deaths at 150

Remembering Our Fallen from Kansas | Pride of Kansas Building

Wood Carving Demo | Domestic Arts Building

Construction Careers Alliance for Kansas | Ad Astra

FFA/4H Exhibit Displays | 4H Centennial Hall, Kansas Showcase

Competitive Exhibits Displays | Oz Gallery, Domestic Arts Building, Lake Talbott East, Lake Talbott West, Pride of Kansas Building

ALL DAY Marching Band Competition | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena &amp; Fairgrounds

9:00 AM Basics of Electricity and Electrical Safety Demo | Ad Astra Bldg.

9:00 AM Debate Showcase | Encampment Bldg. - Hansen Auditorium

9:00 AM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Demo | Expo II

9:30 AM Rub-A-Dub-Dub What's in the Tub? | Agriculture Ed. Exhibit Bldg.

10:00 AM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center

10:00 AM Glenda and Mike Ventriloquist and Magic Show | Education Center

10:00 AM Pencil/Watercolor Artist Demo | Domestic Arts Bldg.

10:00 AM Open Sheep Show | Sheep, Swine and Goat Bldg.

10:30 AM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Demo | Expo II

10:30 AM Knitting/Crochet Demo | Domestic Arts Bldg.

11:00 AM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center

11:00 AM Ninja Experience | Gottschalk Park

11:30 AM Demo- "Cooking with Soybeans" | Domestic Arts Bldg.

11:30 AM Rub-A-Dub-Dub What's in the Tub? | Agriculture Ed. Exhibit Bldg.

12:00 PM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center

12:00 PM Fun Crafting Demo | Domestic Arts Bldg.

12:00 PM Nickerson High School Madrigals | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

12:00 PM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Demo | Expo II

12:00 PM Salt City Cowboy Church | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott

1:00 PM Salt City Cowboy Church | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott

1:30 PM Ninja Experience | Gottschalk Park

2:00 PM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center

2:00 PM Grabbing Some Grub | Agriculture Ed. Exhibit Bldg. , FFA Agricultural Exhibit Area

2:00 PM INSTEP | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott

2:00 PM Makayla Brownlee | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

3:00 PM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Demo | Expo II

4:00 PM 4Given | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott

4:00 PM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Competition | Expo II

4:00 PM Sassanachs | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

5:00 PM INSTEP | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott

5:00 PM Sassanachs | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

6:00 PM 4Given | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott

6:30 PM Ninja Experience | Gottschalk Park

6:30 PM Rub-A-Dub-Dub What's in the Tub? | Agriculture Ed. Exhibit Bldg.

7:00 PM Jake Gill | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

7:00 PM Ryan Shaban | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott

7:30 PM Tracy Lawrence and Logan Mize | Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585171484470.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ALL DAY EVERY DAYRemembering Our Fallen from Kansas | Pride of Kansas BuildingSean Watson | FairgroundsThe Strolling Piano | FairgroundsWood Carving Demo | Domestic Arts BuildingLlama Exhibit | DairylandSudsy’s Barn | Birthing CenterButter Sculpture | Pride of KansasAgriland | Pride of KansasConstruction Careers Alliance for Kansas | Ad AstraFFA/4H Exhibit Displays | 4H Centennial Hall, Kansas ShowcaseCompetitive Exhibits Displays | Oz Gallery, Domestic Arts Building, Lake Talbott East, Lake Talbott West, Pride of Kansas BuildingTASTY TUESDAY$2.00 concessions at participatingvendors! Find new favorites, trysomething different or introduce yourfavorites to your friends.4 AFTER 4Get in for $4 after 4 P.M. ALL DAY Marching Band Competition | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena &amp; Fairgrounds9:00 AM Moo U | Birthing Center9:00 AM Basics of Electricity and Electrical Safety Demo | Ad Astra Bldg.9:00 AM Debate Showcase | Encampment Bldg. - Hansen Auditorium9:00 AM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Demo | Expo II9:00 AM Miniature Horse Show | Expo II9:30 AM Rub-A-Dub-Dub What's in the Tub? | Agriculture Ed. Exhibit Bldg.10:00 AM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center10:00 AM Glenda and Mike Ventriloquist and Magic Show | Education Center10:00 AM Milking Demo | Milking Parlor10:00 AM Moo U | Birthing Center10:00 AM Pencil/Watercolor Artist Demo | Domestic Arts Bldg.10:00 AM Open Sheep Show | Sheep, Swine and Goat Bldg.10:30 AM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Demo | Expo II10:30 AM Knitting/Crochet Demo | Domestic Arts Bldg.11:00 AM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center11:00 AM Milking Demo | Milking Parlor11:00 AM Moo U | Birthing Center11:00 AM Ninja Experience | Gottschalk Park11:30 AM Demo- "Cooking with Soybeans" | Domestic Arts Bldg.11:30 AM Rub-A-Dub-Dub What's in the Tub? | Agriculture Ed. Exhibit Bldg.12:00 PM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center12:00 PM Milking Demo | Milking Parlor12:00 PM Moo U | Birthing Center12:00 PM Fun Crafting Demo | Domestic Arts Bldg.12:00 PM Nickerson High School Madrigals | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena12:00 PM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Demo | Expo II12:00 PM Salt City Cowboy Church | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott1:00 PM Milking Demo | Milking Parlor1:00 PM Salt City Cowboy Church | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott1:30 PM Ninja Experience | Gottschalk Park2:00 PM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center2:00 PM Milking Demo | Milking Parlor2:00 PM Moo U | Birthing Center2:00 PM Grabbing Some Grub | Agriculture Ed. Exhibit Bldg. , FFA Agricultural Exhibit Area2:00 PM INSTEP | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott2:00 PM Makayla Brownlee | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena3:00 PM Moo U | Birthing Center3:00 PM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Demo | Expo II4:00 PM Moo U | Birthing Center4:00 PM $4 after 4 | Fairgrounds4:00 PM 4Given | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott4:00 PM Cowboy Mounted Shooting Competition | Expo II4:00 PM Sassanachs | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena5:00 PM Moo U | Birthing Center5:00 PM INSTEP | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott5:00 PM Sassanachs | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena6:00 PM Milking Demo | Milking Parlor6:00 PM 4Given | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott6:30 PM Ninja Experience | Gottschalk Park6:30 PM Rub-A-Dub-Dub What's in the Tub? | Agriculture Ed. Exhibit Bldg.7:00 PM Jake Gill | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena7:00 PM Ryan Shaban | Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott7:30 PM Tracy Lawrence and Logan Mize | Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand

Kansas State Fair schedule: September 14, 2021

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bluestem PACE will celebrate the grand opening of its new location in Hutchinson on Wednesday, Sept. 22, from 3 to 5 p.m. at its new offices at 1900 E. 23rd Ave. The event is open to the public.

The grand opening event will include tours of the facility, opportunities to meet Bluestem PACE staff and a ribbon cutting with the Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce. COVID-19 precautions will be taken at the event, including the recommendation of mask-wearing.

Bluestem PACE opened its primary location and day center in McPherson in 2016. The Bluestem PACE location in Hutchinson will provide similar services at the center in McPherson, including health care services, activities, meals and transportation, so participants local to Hutchinson and surrounding communities will not have to travel as far.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631562254497.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bluestem PACE will celebrate the grand opening of its new location in Hutchinson on Wednesday, Sept. 22, from 3 to 5 p.m. at its new offices at 1900 E. 23rd Ave. The event is open to the public.The grand opening event will include tours of the facility, opportunities to meet Bluestem PACE staff and a ribbon cutting with the Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce. COVID-19 precautions will be taken at the event, including the recommendation of mask-wearing.Bluestem PACE opened its primary location and day center in McPherson in 2016. The Bluestem PACE location in Hutchinson will provide similar services at the center in McPherson, including health care services, activities, meals and transportation, so participants local to Hutchinson and surrounding communities will not have to travel as far.<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;

Bluestem PACE to celebrate opening of Hutchinson location

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After declaring a state of emergency last week with another round of COVID infecting the area, Reno County commissioners will look to extend that emergency declaration during their meeting on Tuesday.

If approved, the declaration will be extended another seven days through Sept. 21. With an increased number of positive cases, a local disaster declaration will allow the county to request resources from the state. A local disaster declaration does not implement any COVID-related restrictions on the community.

Also Tuesday, the commission will go over a resolution that will help partner with the city on how COVID relief funds are spent. The city recently approved a similar resolution. Commissioners will also set a date for canvassing the votes from the Nov. 2 election. If approved, the canvass of the votes would be Tuesday, Nov. 9, at 8:30 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

The board will also go over a planning and zoning request and hear department reports

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614975074208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After declaring a state of emergency last week with another round of COVID infecting the area, Reno County commissioners will look to extend that emergency declaration during their meeting on Tuesday.If approved, the declaration will be extended another seven days through Sept. 21. With an increased number of positive cases, a local disaster declaration will allow the county to request resources from the state. A local disaster declaration does not implement any COVID-related restrictions on the community.Also Tuesday, the commission will go over a resolution that will help partner with the city on how COVID relief funds are spent. The city recently approved a similar resolution. Commissioners will also set a date for canvassing the votes from the Nov. 2 election. If approved, the canvass of the votes would be Tuesday, Nov. 9, at 8:30 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.The board will also go over a planning and zoning request and hear department reports<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;

Commission looking to extend emergency declaration


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Recreation Commission’s Board of Commissioners is seeking applications for an appointment to the commission. The appointment is from September 2021 through August 2025.

Applicants must reside in the City of Hutchinson, be at least 18 years of age, and <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/about-hutch-rec/leadership-commissioners/">complete an application</a>.

Applications must be returned to Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st, by Friday, Oct. 1 at 5 p.m.

Completed applications are public record and will be available for inspection at the HRC Administrative Office in accordance with the Kansas Open Records Act.

Hutch Rec’s Board of Commissioners meets on the third Monday of the month at 4 p.m.

Questions regarding the application process or the procedures for filling the current vacancy on the Hutchinson Recreation Commission Board should be directed to Anthony Finlay, Executive Director of the Commission, by telephone 620-663-6179, or by email at&nbsp; <a href="http://tfinlay@hutchrec.com">tfinlay@hutchrec.com</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631555837221.jpeg" alt="HutchRecLogo.JPG" />
 <figcaption>HutchRecLogo.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Recreation Commission’s Board of Commissioners is seeking applications for an appointment to the commission. The appointment is from September 2021 through August 2025.Applicants must reside in the City of Hutchinson, be at least 18 years of age, and <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/about-hutch-rec/leadership-commissioners/">complete an application</a>.Applications must be returned to Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st, by Friday, Oct. 1 at 5 p.m.Completed applications are public record and will be available for inspection at the HRC Administrative Office in accordance with the Kansas Open Records Act.Hutch Rec’s Board of Commissioners meets on the third Monday of the month at 4 p.m.Questions regarding the application process or the procedures for filling the current vacancy on the Hutchinson Recreation Commission Board should be directed to Anthony Finlay, Executive Director of the Commission, by telephone 620-663-6179, or by email at&nbsp; <a href="http://tfinlay@hutchrec.com">tfinlay@hutchrec.com</a>.

Hutch Rec Commission seeking board member

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of COVID cases among school-aged children is on the increase in Reno County, along with the overall case count. As of Monday afternoon, the active COVID case count in the county was 650 with a 17% positive test rate.

In August, Reno County reported 156 positive cases in individuals aged 5 to 18. September cases to date include 78 in the school-aged population. This makes up 22.1% of all cases in Reno County, while that age group only accounts for 17% of the total county population.

The Reno County Health Department continues to follow KDHE and CDC recommendations for quarantine and isolation; they have not changed. These guidelines include isolating after a positive diagnosis, quarantining if you are considered a close contact (if you are not vaccinated), washing your hands, wearing a mask, getting vaccinated if over the age of 12, socially distancing by more than 6 feet, and staying home and getting tested if you are experiencing any symptoms.

All individuals should currently be taking preventative measures such as vaccinating (ages 12+), maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping up with regular doctor appointments. Mitigation methods such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and hand sanitizing are also strongly recommended. If you are feeling ill, please get tested at a local provider or schedule on the free community site at <a href="http://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com</a>. To view local vaccination options, go to <a href="http://www.findyourvaccine.org/">www.findyourvaccine.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612955384439.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of COVID cases among school-aged children is on the increase in Reno County, along with the overall case count. As of Monday afternoon, the active COVID case count in the county was 650 with a 17% positive test rate.In August, Reno County reported 156 positive cases in individuals aged 5 to 18. September cases to date include 78 in the school-aged population. This makes up 22.1% of all cases in Reno County, while that age group only accounts for 17% of the total county population.The Reno County Health Department continues to follow KDHE and CDC recommendations for quarantine and isolation; they have not changed. These guidelines include isolating after a positive diagnosis, quarantining if you are considered a close contact (if you are not vaccinated), washing your hands, wearing a mask, getting vaccinated if over the age of 12, socially distancing by more than 6 feet, and staying home and getting tested if you are experiencing any symptoms.All individuals should currently be taking preventative measures such as vaccinating (ages 12+), maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping up with regular doctor appointments. Mitigation methods such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and hand sanitizing are also strongly recommended. If you are feeling ill, please get tested at a local provider or schedule on the free community site at <a href="http://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com</a>. To view local vaccination options, go to <a href="http://www.findyourvaccine.org/">www.findyourvaccine.org</a>.<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;

Student COVID numbers increasing

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Despite the challenges in dealing with the pandemic, the Kansas State Fair got off to a good start.

“Starting out on Friday we were wondering what was going to happen, but it seems to have escalated into a very good year," GM Bryan Schulz said. “Today, (Monday) with Dillons Dollar Day, we’re expecting a huge crowd.”

Officials with the carnival say that they have been busy all three days and expect the same for Monday. The monster truck show on Sunday drew about 4,500 fans and the daily attendance on Sunday was estimated at around 27,000 with a total attendance of around 75,000 so far.&nbsp; While there are some areas that are smaller than previous years, Schulz says for the most part it has been business as usual.

“I think people are still questioning (whether or not to come to the fair), but there are other people out there that are saying it's kind of business as usual,” Schulz said. “We’re still putting into place all of the protocols we set.”

The weather is forecast to be hot for most of the week, so make sure you’re prepared to deal with the heat. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported 10 medical issues on Sunday, down significantly from the 25 on Saturday. 

Also, the trolley system will stop service at dusk due to the numerous close calls with vehicles and pedestrians in the fair parking lots.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594650625292.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Despite the challenges in dealing with the pandemic, the Kansas State Fair got off to a good start.“Starting out on Friday we were wondering what was going to happen, but it seems to have escalated into a very good year," GM Bryan Schulz said. “Today, (Monday) with Dillons Dollar Day, we’re expecting a huge crowd.”Officials with the carnival say that they have been busy all three days and expect the same for Monday. The monster truck show on Sunday drew about 4,500 fans and the daily attendance on Sunday was estimated at around 27,000 with a total attendance of around 75,000 so far.&nbsp; While there are some areas that are smaller than previous years, Schulz says for the most part it has been business as usual.“I think people are still questioning (whether or not to come to the fair), but there are other people out there that are saying it's kind of business as usual,” Schulz said. “We’re still putting into place all of the protocols we set.”The weather is forecast to be hot for most of the week, so make sure you’re prepared to deal with the heat. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported 10 medical issues on Sunday, down significantly from the 25 on Saturday. Also, the trolley system will stop service at dusk due to the numerous close calls with vehicles and pedestrians in the fair parking lots.<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;

State Fair gets off to good start

HESSTON — Stanley Black &amp; Decker announced Monday that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Excel Industries for $375 million in cash. 

The 600-employee company founded in 1960 and based in Hesston, is a leading designer and manufacturer of premium commercial and residential turf-care equipment under the distinct brands of Hustler Turf Equipment and BigDog Mower Co. 

Stanley Black &amp; Decker's CEO James M. Loree commented in a press release, "This is a strategically important bolt-on acquisition as we build an outdoor products leader. Excel brings a range of premier, commercial grade and prosumer turf-care equipment, an extensive dealer network, a talented team and a loyal customer base."

Stanley Black &amp; Decker operates the world's largest tools and storage business and the world's second largest commercial electronic security company.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631547021580.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HESSTON — Stanley Black &amp; Decker announced Monday that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Excel Industries for $375 million in cash. The 600-employee company founded in 1960 and based in Hesston, is a leading designer and manufacturer of premium commercial and residential turf-care equipment under the distinct brands of Hustler Turf Equipment and BigDog Mower Co. Stanley Black &amp; Decker's CEO James M. Loree commented in a press release, "This is a strategically important bolt-on acquisition as we build an outdoor products leader. Excel brings a range of premier, commercial grade and prosumer turf-care equipment, an extensive dealer network, a talented team and a loyal customer base."Stanley Black &amp; Decker operates the world's largest tools and storage business and the world's second largest commercial electronic security company.Excel employees were told of the sale.

Excel sold to Stanley Black & Decker


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers said his office has had quite a bit of success at the State Fair so far in getting people their unclaimed property.

"I think we've done almost 500 searches for people as they walk by the booth," Rogers said. "We're in the Meadowlark Building. We've found almost $220,000 unclaimed property for people and we want to get that back to them."

Unclaimed property can take a lot of different routes to get to the State Treasurer.

"Unclaimed property is really money that has been left idle in a bank account in stocks and bonds. It could be safe deposit contents. It could even be things such as a final paycheck that didn't get sent at the right place, a refund or a rebate, some debit cards as well, if they've been registered. After a certain period of time, usually a year for checks and five years for bank accounts, it gets sent to us. We hold it in a trust until we can find the owner. We have about $400 million of Kansans money that we'd like to return to them."

The agency has returned almost $17 million just since Rogers was appointed to the post this past January.

Below is the full interview with Rogers...

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers said his office has had quite a bit of success at the State Fair so far in getting people their unclaimed property."I think we've done almost 500 searches for people as they walk by the booth," Rogers said. "We're in the Meadowlark Building. We've found almost $220,000 unclaimed property for people and we want to get that back to them."Unclaimed property can take a lot of different routes to get to the State Treasurer."Unclaimed property is really money that has been left idle in a bank account in stocks and bonds. It could be safe deposit contents. It could even be things such as a final paycheck that didn't get sent at the right place, a refund or a rebate, some debit cards as well, if they've been registered. After a certain period of time, usually a year for checks and five years for bank accounts, it gets sent to us. We hold it in a trust until we can find the owner. We have about $400 million of Kansans money that we'd like to return to them."The agency has returned almost $17 million just since Rogers was appointed to the post this past January.Below is the full interview with Rogers...<div><iframe title="BONUS PODCAST: State Treasurer Lynn Rogers" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qftq3-10db4dc-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

Rogers: Lots of money back to Kansans so far at State Fair

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Arthritis Foundation’s FREE&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;Program will be offered starting September 20, 9 am at the Delos V. Smith Senior Center.&nbsp;

Walk With Ease&nbsp;is a structured walking program that teaches participants how to safely make physical activity part of their everyday life. The program is designed to help people living with arthritis better manage their pain and is also ideal for people without arthritis who wants to make walking a daily habit.

Walk With Ease&nbsp;offers support, information, and tools to help participants develop successful exercise routines. Participants will meet on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for 10 minutes of education, warm-up/stretching, then a 5 to 30-minute walk, ending with cool-down/stretching for six-weeks led by a certified instructor.

During the program, participants will learn proper stretching and pain management techniques, as well as build stamina and walking pace. The program can even be modified to meet the needs of individual participants so that each person can develop an exercise routine that fits their unique goals.

“Research shows that walking is not only good for joints, but also helps improve the health of the heart, lungs and bones,”&nbsp;said Diane Swinney of the Reno County Health Department.&nbsp;“Walking can also help manage weight which can reduce one’s risk for arthritis in the knee, heart disease and diabetes. If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you will most likely have success with Walk With Ease.”

The information and strategies taught in the Arthritis Foundation&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;Program are based on research and tested programs in exercise science, behavior change and arthritis management. Updated and evaluated by the Thurston Arthritis Research Center and the Institute on Aging of the University of North Carolina,&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;is shown to increase balance, strength and walking pace, as well as reduce the pain and discomfort of arthritis. The program is also shown to build participant confidence to be physically active and improve overall health. The Walk with Ease program is offered through the KDHE’s Chronic Disease Risk Reduction grant.

Pre-registration for the&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;Program is necessary. For more information, contact Delos V. Smith Senior Center at 620-662-0111.

Before starting any exercise program, always check with your physician.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Arthritis Foundation’s FREE&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;Program will be offered starting September 20, 9 am at the Delos V. Smith Senior Center.&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;is a structured walking program that teaches participants how to safely make physical activity part of their everyday life. The program is designed to help people living with arthritis better manage their pain and is also ideal for people without arthritis who wants to make walking a daily habit.Walk With Ease&nbsp;offers support, information, and tools to help participants develop successful exercise routines. Participants will meet on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for 10 minutes of education, warm-up/stretching, then a 5 to 30-minute walk, ending with cool-down/stretching for six-weeks led by a certified instructor. During the program, participants will learn proper stretching and pain management techniques, as well as build stamina and walking pace. The program can even be modified to meet the needs of individual participants so that each person can develop an exercise routine that fits their unique goals.“Research shows that walking is not only good for joints, but also helps improve the health of the heart, lungs and bones,”&nbsp;said Diane Swinney of the Reno County Health Department.&nbsp;“Walking can also help manage weight which can reduce one’s risk for arthritis in the knee, heart disease and diabetes. If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you will most likely have success with Walk With Ease.”The information and strategies taught in the Arthritis Foundation&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;Program are based on research and tested programs in exercise science, behavior change and arthritis management. Updated and evaluated by the Thurston Arthritis Research Center and the Institute on Aging of the University of North Carolina,&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;is shown to increase balance, strength and walking pace, as well as reduce the pain and discomfort of arthritis. The program is also shown to build participant confidence to be physically active and improve overall health. The Walk with Ease program is offered through the KDHE’s Chronic Disease Risk Reduction grant.Pre-registration for the&nbsp;Walk With Ease&nbsp;Program is necessary. For more information, contact Delos V. Smith Senior Center at 620-662-0111. Before starting any exercise program, always check with your physician.

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