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

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

<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.

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

Recent obituaries

NICKERSON, Kan. — In a very unorthodox fashion, the Nickerson USD 309 Board of Education filled&nbsp; two vacant seats during Monday’s meeting.

After once again rejecting a number of applicants, the board went outside the box and appointed former South Hutchinson City Councilman Luke Herren to fill the South Hutchinson seat and Jay Mitzner for the Reno Valley vacancy. Both were appointed by the board after each stood up and spoke from the audience. Neither had filled out the normal application for appointment.

The South Hutchinson and Reno Valley Seats have been vacant for more than a year now. Attempts to fill the seats had been unsuccessful as the current five member board rejected any additions time and again.&nbsp;

There were two names up for consideration for each seat. But Ken and Jane Gamber who were up for consideration for the Reno Valley seat and&nbsp; RJ Wensel and Larry Meadows for the South Hutchinson position were turned down by the board.

A couple of other items were approved, the Nickerson High School daily schedule which will comprise seven periods, and the purchase of 150 MacBooks at a cost of $158,850 for teachers and 350 Chromebooks for students at a cost of $98,675.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — In a very unorthodox fashion, the Nickerson USD 309 Board of Education filled&nbsp; two vacant seats during Monday’s meeting.After once again rejecting a number of applicants, the board went outside the box and appointed former South Hutchinson City Councilman Luke Herren to fill the South Hutchinson seat and Jay Mitzner for the Reno Valley vacancy. Both were appointed by the board after each stood up and spoke from the audience. Neither had filled out the normal application for appointment.The South Hutchinson and Reno Valley Seats have been vacant for more than a year now. Attempts to fill the seats had been unsuccessful as the current five member board rejected any additions time and again.&nbsp;There were two names up for consideration for each seat. But Ken and Jane Gamber who were up for consideration for the Reno Valley seat and&nbsp; RJ Wensel and Larry Meadows for the South Hutchinson position were turned down by the board.A couple of other items were approved, the Nickerson High School daily schedule which will comprise seven periods, and the purchase of 150 MacBooks at a cost of $158,850 for teachers and 350 Chromebooks for students at a cost of $98,675.

USD 309 fills vacant board seats

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The pandemic and the resulting shut down of businesses has had a major effect on the theatre and movie businesses.

It is no different for the Hutchinson Fox Theatre. The Fox saw a whole season of entertainment go by the wayside in 2020. But, the theatre is now working to get the 2021 season underway.

“We’re solidifying next season, we’ll be ready to release that information in a couple of months,” Director Chuck Miller said. “Everything is kind of backed up, stacked up and we just we can start knocking them down and bringing them back to Hutch.”

Miller says that all of the acts scheduled for 2020 are coming back this year and says most have been very accommodating on finding new dates.

“It’s been very easy to reschedule, everybody has been very understanding about the situation,” Miller said. “Many of the acts that we booked are willing to do two shows for social distancing if we need that, so they have been very accommodating.”

Miller says in the meantime the theatre has been doing some minor repairs and renovating the restrooms to provide more space. They are also working on the new ticketing system. The main thing the Fox wants to do is get back to entertaining.

“We have a new ticketing system that we’re working the bugs out of," Miller said. “We’re very optimistic we’ll get going again, it’s just a matter of when.”

If all goes as planned, there could be an announcement on a show in April and maybe again in May. The first official performance on the list as of now is the Dirty Dozen Brass Band set for June 19. Tickets go on sale to the public starting Friday.

<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/2021/2/1614097835841.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY ROD ZOOK
Hutch
PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The pandemic and the resulting shut down of businesses has had a major effect on the theatre and movie businesses.It is no different for the Hutchinson Fox Theatre. The Fox saw a whole season of entertainment go by the wayside in 2020. But, the theatre is now working to get the 2021 season underway.“We’re solidifying next season, we’ll be ready to release that information in a couple of months,” Director Chuck Miller said. “Everything is kind of backed up, stacked up and we just we can start knocking them down and bringing them back to Hutch.”Miller says that all of the acts scheduled for 2020 are coming back this year and says most have been very accommodating on finding new dates.“It’s been very easy to reschedule, everybody has been very understanding about the situation,” Miller said. “Many of the acts that we booked are willing to do two shows for social distancing if we need that, so they have been very accommodating.”Miller says in the meantime the theatre has been doing some minor repairs and renovating the restrooms to provide more space. They are also working on the new ticketing system. The main thing the Fox wants to do is get back to entertaining.“We have a new ticketing system that we’re working the bugs out of," Miller said. “We’re very optimistic we’ll get going again, it’s just a matter of when.”If all goes as planned, there could be an announcement on a show in April and maybe again in May. The first official performance on the list as of now is the Dirty Dozen Brass Band set for June 19. Tickets go on sale to the public starting Friday.<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;

Fox Theatre ready to get back to hosting events

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 has its new Executive Director of Human Resources. Current Nickerson USD 309 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson was approved for the position during last night's USD 308 board meeting. 

She replaces Rick Kraus, who will retire at the end of the year. Kraus came to Hutchinson in 1994. He was the Executive Director for Human Resources in the district for the past 16 years and also served as assistant superintendent.

Johnson has been the superintendent of USD 309 since 2016. Before that, she spent three years as the assistant superintendent. She also taught in the Nickerson school system from 1999 through 2004. She was then deployed to serve her country in the Army.&nbsp;

She recently became a lieutenant colonel after taking a year away from the school district to attend the National Defense University in Washington, D.C.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614094184255.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 has its new Executive Director of Human Resources. Current Nickerson USD 309 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson was approved for the position during last night's USD 308 board meeting. She replaces Rick Kraus, who will retire at the end of the year. Kraus came to Hutchinson in 1994. He was the Executive Director for Human Resources in the district for the past 16 years and also served as assistant superintendent.Johnson has been the superintendent of USD 309 since 2016. Before that, she spent three years as the assistant superintendent. She also taught in the Nickerson school system from 1999 through 2004. She was then deployed to serve her country in the Army.&nbsp;She recently became a lieutenant colonel after taking a year away from the school district to attend the National Defense University in Washington, D.C.

Johnson named Executive Director of Human Resources for USD 308

To ensure a healthier environment, the Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Feb. 22, 2021) approved the purchase of air purifiers that will better cleanse the air in district facilities for all students and staff.

The Board voted to purchase 513 I-wave air purifiers for all the district’s rooftop units, air handler units and VRF cassettes. The I-wave units use ionization to reduce pathogens, COVID-19, allergens, particles, smoke and odors when air passes over the units up to 99 percent. The I-wave units do not produce ozone.

Funding for the project is coming from federal CARES money. CARES funds are to be used to help with student learning during the pandemic, help staff and create a safer learning environment.

The Board also heard from the Elementary Art Department. March is Youth Art Month and the district’s elementary schools did a presentation on art in the classroom. The presentation will be posted on the district’s website.

Tabled the Leader in Me curriculum and staff development until a curriculum and assessment audit by Greenbush is completed this spring. Leader in Me is based on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Franklin Covey.

Approved minutes of the Feb. 8, 2021, Board meeting.

Approved the Head Start annual grant application.

Approved a submitted grant application for Graber Elementary School.

Approved the liability, property, automobile, and errors and omissions insurance renewal with Fee Insurance Group.

Approved the purchase of 75 HP desktop computers for labs at the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy.

Approved the Skyward Software as a Service contract with Skyward. The district uses Skyward for its business and student information systems.

Approved the Aruba licensing/support renewal.

Approved the Treasurer’s Report for January 2021.

Held executive sessions for personnel and negotiations.

Approved contracts for district-level administrators.

Held a study session on Coherent Governance, the strategic plan and iReady data.

The Board approved the following personnel changes.

Abigail Wilson, Substitute Teacher, District, effective February 15, 2021

Kaylie Brown, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective February 18, 2021

Tommie Westfall, Substitute Teacher, District, effective February 15, 2021

Felecia Grund, Substitute Teacher, District, effective February 22, 2021

Mason Campbell, Custodian, Hutchinson High School, effective February 23, 2021

Alexadra (Rachael) East, Substitute Teacher, District, effective February 22, 2021

Desiree Ross, Cook/Server, Lincoln Elementary, effective March 1, 2021

Tate Webster, CSS Para, Graber Elementary, effective February 23, 2021

Preston Campbell, Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School – 8, effective March 1, 2021

Mace Krol, Head Varsity Assistant Softball Coach, Hutchinson High School, effective February 15, 2021

Dawn Johnson, Executive Director of Human Resources, Administration Center, effective July 1, 2021

Ashley Garcia, Custodian Substitute, District, effective January 12,2021

Melissah Sutton, Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School – 7, effective March 6, 2021

Jodi Bachand, Music Teacher, McCandless/Faris, effective May 27, 2021

Janet Davis, Math/Algebra Teacher, Hutchinson High School, effective June 1, 2021

Brandon Adelhardt, Custodian, Hutchinson High School, effective February 5, 2021

The Board formally accepted and thanked donors of the following gifts to schools.

$775 from the Rimmer Fund at the Hutchinson Community Foundation to Morgan Elementary School for student needs.

$9,500 from the Rohlfsen Family Foundation to the district for general scholarship support.

The next regular meeting of the Board will be March 8.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To ensure a healthier environment, the Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Feb. 22, 2021) approved the purchase of air purifiers that will better cleanse the air in district facilities for all students and staff.The Board voted to purchase 513 I-wave air purifiers for all the district’s rooftop units, air handler units and VRF cassettes. The I-wave units use ionization to reduce pathogens, COVID-19, allergens, particles, smoke and odors when air passes over the units up to 99 percent. The I-wave units do not produce ozone.Funding for the project is coming from federal CARES money. CARES funds are to be used to help with student learning during the pandemic, help staff and create a safer learning environment.The Board also heard from the Elementary Art Department. March is Youth Art Month and the district’s elementary schools did a presentation on art in the classroom. The presentation will be posted on the district’s website.Also during the meeting, the Board:Tabled the Leader in Me curriculum and staff development until a curriculum and assessment audit by Greenbush is completed this spring. Leader in Me is based on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Franklin Covey.Approved minutes of the Feb. 8, 2021, Board meeting.Approved the Head Start annual grant application.Approved a submitted grant application for Graber Elementary School.Approved the liability, property, automobile, and errors and omissions insurance renewal with Fee Insurance Group.Approved the purchase of 75 HP desktop computers for labs at the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy.Approved the Skyward Software as a Service contract with Skyward. The district uses Skyward for its business and student information systems.Approved the CISCO Smartnet renewal.Approved the Aruba licensing/support renewal.Approved the Treasurer’s Report for January 2021.Held executive sessions for personnel and negotiations.Approved contracts for district-level administrators.Held a study session on Coherent Governance, the strategic plan and iReady data.Personnel ReportThe Board approved the following personnel changes.HiredAbigail Wilson, Substitute Teacher, District, effective February 15, 2021Kaylie Brown, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective February 18, 2021Tommie Westfall, Substitute Teacher, District, effective February 15, 2021Felecia Grund, Substitute Teacher, District, effective February 22, 2021Mason Campbell, Custodian, Hutchinson High School, effective February 23, 2021Alexadra (Rachael) East, Substitute Teacher, District, effective February 22, 2021Desiree Ross, Cook/Server, Lincoln Elementary, effective March 1, 2021Tate Webster, CSS Para, Graber Elementary, effective February 23, 2021Preston Campbell, Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School – 8, effective March 1, 2021Mace Krol, Head Varsity Assistant Softball Coach, Hutchinson High School, effective February 15, 2021Dawn Johnson, Executive Director of Human Resources, Administration Center, effective July 1, 2021ResignationsAshley Garcia, Custodian Substitute, District, effective January 12,2021Melissah Sutton, Custodian, Hutchinson Middle School – 7, effective March 6, 2021Jodi Bachand, Music Teacher, McCandless/Faris, effective May 27, 2021RetirementJanet Davis, Math/Algebra Teacher, Hutchinson High School, effective June 1, 2021TerminationBrandon Adelhardt, Custodian, Hutchinson High School, effective February 5, 2021Gifts to SchoolsThe Board formally accepted and thanked donors of the following gifts to schools.$775 from the Rimmer Fund at the Hutchinson Community Foundation to Morgan Elementary School for student needs.$9,500 from the Rohlfsen Family Foundation to the district for general scholarship support.Next MeetingThe next regular meeting of the Board will be March 8.

USD 308 school board approves air purifier purchase Monday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The overall case count is at 136 as of Monday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 135. The last time we were at this case count exactly was September 29 and the last time we were below this was at 134 on September 30 and October 1.

Out of 7,687 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,416 recoveries. There are 14 clusters still being monitored. The long-term care facility cluster type is down to just 21 active cases.

Five Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred sixty-five total have been hospitalized. One hundred three have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

Drive-thru testing is currently available at two Reno County Locations at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson and at Simply Good Overstocks at 401 N Main in South Hutchinson.

Both sites are open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit www.gogettested.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612523117297.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The overall case count is at 136 as of Monday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 135. The last time we were at this case count exactly was September 29 and the last time we were below this was at 134 on September 30 and October 1.Out of 7,687 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,416 recoveries. There are 14 clusters still being monitored. The long-term care facility cluster type is down to just 21 active cases.Five Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred sixty-five total have been hospitalized. One hundred three have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.Drive-thru testing is currently available at two Reno County Locations at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson and at Simply Good Overstocks at 401 N Main in South Hutchinson.Both sites are open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit www.gogettested.com.

Case count down to 136, with just 21 long-term care cases

Case counts continue down in Reno County, Iran not keeping its end of the nuclear deal and more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Case counts continue down in Reno County, Iran not keeping its end of the nuclear deal and more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="February 23, 2021 Morning News" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/4x8ng-fb96e2?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

February 23, 2021 Morning News

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After months of planning, Superior Boiler is ready to take occupancy of the former Mega Manufacturing facility located just west of the current operations.

The company reached an agreement to buy the building so it could bring its Richmond, Virginia, plant to Hutchinson. The building has been occupied by Siemens for the past 10 years as a storage facility. According to Doug Wright with Superior, the building is now empty and they plan to start making minor renovations to the building starting next week.&nbsp;

Wright says they plan to begin moving in equipment in late March or early April and hope to be up and fully running by late June or early July.

The company is looking for full-time employees already and hopes to have an initial workforce of 30 when the building opens. That number is expected to increase by between five and 10 employees by the end of the first year. Superior is working with local and regional resources, including Hutchinson Community College and the state of Kansas, and will conduct internal training for existing employees who may desire to move into new roles.

Superior announced in March of last year plans to relocate the Richmond facility.

<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&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605801363438.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After months of planning, Superior Boiler is ready to take occupancy of the former Mega Manufacturing facility located just west of the current operations.The company reached an agreement to buy the building so it could bring its Richmond, Virginia, plant to Hutchinson. The building has been occupied by Siemens for the past 10 years as a storage facility. According to Doug Wright with Superior, the building is now empty and they plan to start making minor renovations to the building starting next week.&nbsp;Wright says they plan to begin moving in equipment in late March or early April and hope to be up and fully running by late June or early July.The company is looking for full-time employees already and hopes to have an initial workforce of 30 when the building opens. That number is expected to increase by between five and 10 employees by the end of the first year. Superior is working with local and regional resources, including Hutchinson Community College and the state of Kansas, and will conduct internal training for existing employees who may desire to move into new roles.Superior announced in March of last year plans to relocate the Richmond facility.<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&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Superior expects Richmond move to be done by mid-summer

CHENEY, Kan. — Several years ago the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks established a new national online reservation system for camping at its state parks.

Last summer, the system was put to use as Cheney State Park was full nearly every weekend as residents looked for ways to get out and about during the pandemic. Earlier this year, officials at Cheney stated that 2021 could be very much the same. In looking at the reservation system, that could ring true. According to the website, all of the non-primitive camping sites are taken for Memorial Day weekend.

And looking even further out, the story is the same. As of Monday, only 22 camping sites remain for the Independence Day weekend and just one remains for Labor Day weekend.&nbsp;

Now primitive campsites are in abundance for all three holidays. The park says that most weekends will see full use of the camping hook-up sites, which provide water and electricity.&nbsp;

Cheney typically sees more than 50,000 visitors during the weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588189401552.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHENEY, Kan. — Several years ago the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks established a new national online reservation system for camping at its state parks.Last summer, the system was put to use as Cheney State Park was full nearly every weekend as residents looked for ways to get out and about during the pandemic. Earlier this year, officials at Cheney stated that 2021 could be very much the same. In looking at the reservation system, that could ring true. According to the website, all of the non-primitive camping sites are taken for Memorial Day weekend.And looking even further out, the story is the same. As of Monday, only 22 camping sites remain for the Independence Day weekend and just one remains for Labor Day weekend.&nbsp;Now primitive campsites are in abundance for all three holidays. The park says that most weekends will see full use of the camping hook-up sites, which provide water and electricity.&nbsp;Cheney typically sees more than 50,000 visitors during the weekend.<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&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Cheney State Park established camping sold out for Memorial holiday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson police released more information on the car/pedestrian accident that killed the pedestrian on Saturday. The accident happened around 12:20 p.m. in the 700 block of East Avenue A.&nbsp;

Police report that a vehicle was traveling westbound and struck a pedestrian that was walking northbound across the road outside of the crosswalk. The pedestrian, 93-year-old Carmen Raya of Hutchinson, was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center where she was pronounced dead. The driver's name has not been released at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559617385052.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson police released more information on the car/pedestrian accident that killed the pedestrian on Saturday. The accident happened around 12:20 p.m. in the 700 block of East Avenue A.&nbsp;Police report that a vehicle was traveling westbound and struck a pedestrian that was walking northbound across the road outside of the crosswalk. The pedestrian, 93-year-old Carmen Raya of Hutchinson, was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center where she was pronounced dead. The driver's name has not been released at this time.The case is still under investigation.<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&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

More information released on car/pedestrian accident

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

Our first beef calves of the season arrived a few days into February. Each day into calving season temperatures grew colder, and our lives transitioned from normal routines to the highly vigilant survival mode required to weather the arctic storm.&nbsp; My quiet moments during this bitterly cold stretch have been filled with reflections on the farming and ranching lifestyle. Calving through a storm is hard work that takes a kind of deep, character-refining strength. It takes strong logic to overcome a pull on your heartstrings that comes when you take a brand new calf away from a momma cow minutes after it is born. Farmers do this because they know that no matter how hard the cow tries to clean up her baby, she will never get it dry enough by herself in frigid temperatures. Spending a few hours under a heat lamp keeps the baby warm until she is dry enough to survive in the cold. It takes strong purpose to put the needs of the herd before your own comfort. During the run-on days of the storm, farmers miss meals, delay bathroom breaks, ditch their gloves and lose the feeling their hands while milking a cow to teach a calf to nurse. They ruin clothing, end up with soiled vehicles, and may even sacrifice their bathtubs to the needs of the newborns. It takes physical strength to chop through the layers of ice in water tanks or safely wrestle a 50-pound calf into the passenger seat of your pickup to move it to the warming shed. Farmers don’t give a second thought to the bruise forming on their leg from a baby calves’ flailing legs or the soreness in their muscles after long physical days because aches and pains seem like a small price to pay to protect the herd. &nbsp; It takes mental strength to wake at all hours of the night after a scarce 30-minute nap and reach a state of alertness to identify signs of distress during a frequent pen checks. Farmers make constant rounds day and night in the cold because they know that a cow may have a quick or a difficult labor. Being vigilant helps farmers to provide needed assistance as quickly as possible. &nbsp; It takes emotional strength not to feel weighed down with guilt when a calf is born in subzero temperatures and you just did not get there quick enough to save it. Farmers do not have the luxury of dwelling on what went wrong. They have to get back to helping their remaining animals and trying their best not to lose another one. Calving through a storm is hard, but it is the kind of hard that’s worthwhile. My most surprising reflection is that this storm has made me better. I feel a little bit like leaving the gym after a strength training session. My mind and body are exhausted, but I feel joy, peace and contentment. What looked so daunting at the beginning was overcome through perseverance and exercising logic, selflessness, compassion, wisdom and humility. You may never have the chance to help a farm or ranch survive a calving season storm, but we all have storms in our lives. Opportunity to exercise our character by putting the needs of others before our own comfort; taking the uncomfortable steps to help others who cannot help themselves; and forgiving ourselves or letting go of things beyond our control. And we all have the strength to weather these storms.

"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.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancherOur first beef calves of the season arrived a few days into February. Each day into calving season temperatures grew colder, and our lives transitioned from normal routines to the highly vigilant survival mode required to weather the arctic storm.&nbsp; My quiet moments during this bitterly cold stretch have been filled with reflections on the farming and ranching lifestyle. Calving through a storm is hard work that takes a kind of deep, character-refining strength. It takes strong logic to overcome a pull on your heartstrings that comes when you take a brand new calf away from a momma cow minutes after it is born. Farmers do this because they know that no matter how hard the cow tries to clean up her baby, she will never get it dry enough by herself in frigid temperatures. Spending a few hours under a heat lamp keeps the baby warm until she is dry enough to survive in the cold. It takes strong purpose to put the needs of the herd before your own comfort. During the run-on days of the storm, farmers miss meals, delay bathroom breaks, ditch their gloves and lose the feeling their hands while milking a cow to teach a calf to nurse. They ruin clothing, end up with soiled vehicles, and may even sacrifice their bathtubs to the needs of the newborns. It takes physical strength to chop through the layers of ice in water tanks or safely wrestle a 50-pound calf into the passenger seat of your pickup to move it to the warming shed. Farmers don’t give a second thought to the bruise forming on their leg from a baby calves’ flailing legs or the soreness in their muscles after long physical days because aches and pains seem like a small price to pay to protect the herd. &nbsp; It takes mental strength to wake at all hours of the night after a scarce 30-minute nap and reach a state of alertness to identify signs of distress during a frequent pen checks. Farmers make constant rounds day and night in the cold because they know that a cow may have a quick or a difficult labor. Being vigilant helps farmers to provide needed assistance as quickly as possible. &nbsp; It takes emotional strength not to feel weighed down with guilt when a calf is born in subzero temperatures and you just did not get there quick enough to save it. Farmers do not have the luxury of dwelling on what went wrong. They have to get back to helping their remaining animals and trying their best not to lose another one. Calving through a storm is hard, but it is the kind of hard that’s worthwhile. My most surprising reflection is that this storm has made me better. I feel a little bit like leaving the gym after a strength training session. My mind and body are exhausted, but I feel joy, peace and contentment. What looked so daunting at the beginning was overcome through perseverance and exercising logic, selflessness, compassion, wisdom and humility. You may never have the chance to help a farm or ranch survive a calving season storm, but we all have storms in our lives. Opportunity to exercise our character by putting the needs of others before our own comfort; taking the uncomfortable steps to help others who cannot help themselves; and forgiving ourselves or letting go of things beyond our control. And we all have the strength to weather these storms."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.&nbsp;Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: The Strength to Weather Storms

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works says that Apple Lane is now closed between 17th and 20th Avenues as crews replace a small bridge. The project was delayed two weeks by weather.

City Engineer Jeff Petersen says if all goes well the bridge should be finished no later than April 1. Once that’s completed work will begin on the road between 17th and 20th. Once that is finished the road work will move north in sections. The detour for motorists runs from 17th Avenue to K-61 over to 30th Avenue.

The entire project is expected to be completed by the end of the summer.

Also, after being delayed due to the cold weather, work crews are expected to get back to work on the North Main project. Crews will begin replacing the curb, gutter and sidewalks along the east side of Main between 7th and 5th. That will be followed by a complete reconstruction of the intersections on the east side.

Once all of that is completed the entire street will be milled and overlaid from 13th to 5th Avenue. Petersen says that should be completed this spring.&nbsp;

<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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601476410496.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works says that Apple Lane is now closed between 17th and 20th Avenues as crews replace a small bridge. The project was delayed two weeks by weather.City Engineer Jeff Petersen says if all goes well the bridge should be finished no later than April 1. Once that’s completed work will begin on the road between 17th and 20th. Once that is finished the road work will move north in sections. The detour for motorists runs from 17th Avenue to K-61 over to 30th Avenue.The entire project is expected to be completed by the end of the summer.Also, after being delayed due to the cold weather, work crews are expected to get back to work on the North Main project. Crews will begin replacing the curb, gutter and sidewalks along the east side of Main between 7th and 5th. That will be followed by a complete reconstruction of the intersections on the east side.Once all of that is completed the entire street will be milled and overlaid from 13th to 5th Avenue. Petersen says that should be completed this spring.&nbsp;
<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.

Apple Lane project underway, Main Street work to resume next week

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 Board of Education will once again make an attempt to fill two vacant seats during tonight’s meeting.

The South Hutchinson and Reno Valley Seats have been vacant for more than a year now. Attempts to fill the seats have been unsuccessful as the current five member board has rejected any additions time and again.&nbsp;

There are at least two names up for consideration for each seat. Ken and Jane Gamber are both up for consideration for the Reno Valley seat while RJ Wensel and Larry Meadows are up for the South Hutchinson position.&nbsp;

A couple of other items the Board will go over include action on the Nickerson High School daily schedule which will be comprised of seven periods if approved, and the purchase of 150 MacBooks at a cost of $158,850 for teachers and 350 Chromebooks for students at a cost of $98,675.

Tonight’s meeting of the Nickerson School Board begins at 7 p.m. at the Reno Valley Middle School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 Board of Education will once again make an attempt to fill two vacant seats during tonight’s meeting.The South Hutchinson and Reno Valley Seats have been vacant for more than a year now. Attempts to fill the seats have been unsuccessful as the current five member board has rejected any additions time and again.&nbsp;There are at least two names up for consideration for each seat. Ken and Jane Gamber are both up for consideration for the Reno Valley seat while RJ Wensel and Larry Meadows are up for the South Hutchinson position.&nbsp;A couple of other items the Board will go over include action on the Nickerson High School daily schedule which will be comprised of seven periods if approved, and the purchase of 150 MacBooks at a cost of $158,850 for teachers and 350 Chromebooks for students at a cost of $98,675.Tonight’s meeting of the Nickerson School Board begins at 7 p.m. at the Reno Valley Middle School.
<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.

USD 309 to consider filling vacant positions again


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas State Fair General Manager Ed Berger said Monday that the fair will go on in September and preparations continue.

"We're kind of ahead of the game," Berger said. "We had made plans, of course, for a 2020 fair and with all those plans, all we did was kind of roll them over to 2021. That's the case with the acts we've booked, a lot of those vendors who work with us, either kept their contracts, kept their deposits or are now making those deposits again."

The fair is bringing back an event from this fall in the spring to whet potential fairgoers appetites.

"The Fair Food and Tunes event last fall was very successful," Berger said. "We have another event like that Fair Food and Tunes planned for April 10th. That's a Saturday. We'll have entertainment at Lake Talbot and we'll have all those favorite foods that you like. Pronto Pups, funnel cakes, sausage, adult beverages, all of that will be available on the 10th of April."

Many popular fairgrounds events outside of the fair are changing their dates this year.

"The Mennonite Relief Auction that we always have in April, they deferred that till July," Berger said. "They're thinking that by July why, everything will have settled down to the point that that auction can take place. That's always a big event for the community, a big event for the fairgrounds. Another example is the Chamber of Commerce had their banquet scheduled in May and they've moved that back."

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/a74bd0c8-fd9a-4f2a-a87a-a15abdd1aaf0">The Chamber event is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 4</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586266027570.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas State Fair General Manager Ed Berger said Monday that the fair will go on in September and preparations continue."We're kind of ahead of the game," Berger said. "We had made plans, of course, for a 2020 fair and with all those plans, all we did was kind of roll them over to 2021. That's the case with the acts we've booked, a lot of those vendors who work with us, either kept their contracts, kept their deposits or are now making those deposits again."The fair is bringing back an event from this fall in the spring to whet potential fairgoers appetites."The Fair Food and Tunes event last fall was very successful," Berger said. "We have another event like that Fair Food and Tunes planned for April 10th. That's a Saturday. We'll have entertainment at Lake Talbot and we'll have all those favorite foods that you like. Pronto Pups, funnel cakes, sausage, adult beverages, all of that will be available on the 10th of April."Many popular fairgrounds events outside of the fair are changing their dates this year."The Mennonite Relief Auction that we always have in April, they deferred that till July," Berger said. "They're thinking that by July why, everything will have settled down to the point that that auction can take place. That's always a big event for the community, a big event for the fairgrounds. Another example is the Chamber of Commerce had their banquet scheduled in May and they've moved that back."<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/a74bd0c8-fd9a-4f2a-a87a-a15abdd1aaf0">The Chamber event is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 4</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.

Berger: Fair will go on in 2021, other events will happen later in year

TOPEKA – The Kansas Attorney General’s Office will mark National Consumer Protection Week with free document destruction events throughout the state, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Monday.

“Our office works hard year-round to protect consumers,” Schmidt said. “Next week, we will place a particular focus on helping Kansans protect themselves from identity theft and stay safe from scams.”

The office will sponsor free document destruction at eight locations throughout the state from March 1-March 6, which is National Consumer Protection Week. Securely shredding personal documents is an important step toward preventing identity theft. 

The Hutchinson event is Monday, March 1 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds, gate 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – The Kansas Attorney General’s Office will mark National Consumer Protection Week with free document destruction events throughout the state, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Monday.“Our office works hard year-round to protect consumers,” Schmidt said. “Next week, we will place a particular focus on helping Kansans protect themselves from identity theft and stay safe from scams.”The office will sponsor free document destruction at eight locations throughout the state from March 1-March 6, which is National Consumer Protection Week. Securely shredding personal documents is an important step toward preventing identity theft. The Hutchinson event is Monday, March 1 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds, gate 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
<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.

Kansas AG's office to sponsor shredding events, including Monday, March 1 in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Now that the safety issues related to the last couple of weeks appear to be behind us, the American Red Cross is once again asking for the help of blood donors to replenish supplies.

"Now that the snow is melting, we've got to be sure that blood's available for patients," said Jan Hale with the Red Cross. "We're urging people to make that appointment to come in to donate as soon as they can."

Blood drives are going on this week on Monday from noon to 6 p.m. at Crossroads Christian Church at 4310 N Monroe in Hutchinson and on Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center at 1701 East 23rd. There is also a drive in Pretty Prairie Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Graber Mercantile at 115 West Main Street.

"Last week and leading up to the storms we lost the potential to collect over 1000 donations," Hale said. "That's huge, and so it's going to take all of us working together as it has through this entire pandemic to be sure that blood is available and ready for whoever needs it whenever they need it."

If you recently have had COVID-19 and are now healthy enough to donate, they really need to hear from you.

"We absolutely are doing antibody testing," Hale said. "We are also, for those that have recovered from the virus, we are doing testing that, if those antibodies show up in their blood, it is removed so that it can be processed and be able to help patients that are currently fighting the virus."

To help ensure lifesaving patient care isn’t impacted, individuals are urged to make appointments to donate in the coming days and weeks by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608743625160.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Now that the safety issues related to the last couple of weeks appear to be behind us, the American Red Cross is once again asking for the help of blood donors to replenish supplies."Now that the snow is melting, we've got to be sure that blood's available for patients," said Jan Hale with the Red Cross. "We're urging people to make that appointment to come in to donate as soon as they can."Blood drives are going on this week on Monday from noon to 6 p.m. at Crossroads Christian Church at 4310 N Monroe in Hutchinson and on Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center at 1701 East 23rd. There is also a drive in Pretty Prairie Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Graber Mercantile at 115 West Main Street."Last week and leading up to the storms we lost the potential to collect over 1000 donations," Hale said. "That's huge, and so it's going to take all of us working together as it has through this entire pandemic to be sure that blood is available and ready for whoever needs it whenever they need it."If you recently have had COVID-19 and are now healthy enough to donate, they really need to hear from you."We absolutely are doing antibody testing," Hale said. "We are also, for those that have recovered from the virus, we are doing testing that, if those antibodies show up in their blood, it is removed so that it can be processed and be able to help patients that are currently fighting the virus."To help ensure lifesaving patient care isn’t impacted, individuals are urged to make appointments to donate in the coming days and weeks by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.
<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.

Red Cross needs blood after weather-related cancellations


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The overall case count is at 163 as of Sunday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 134. 

Out of 7,677 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,380 recoveries. There are 22 clusters still being monitored. The only cluster type with multiple cases remaining is long-term care facilities and they have just 38 active cases and eight active clusters still being monitored. This is down from 78 active cases in that cluster type just three weeks ago.

Seven Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred sixty-four total have been hospitalized. One hundred three have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

Both sites are open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit <a href="https://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612955384439.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The overall case count is at 163 as of Sunday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 134. Out of 7,677 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,380 recoveries. There are 22 clusters still being monitored. The only cluster type with multiple cases remaining is long-term care facilities and they have just 38 active cases and eight active clusters still being monitored. This is down from 78 active cases in that cluster type just three weeks ago.Seven Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred sixty-four total have been hospitalized. One hundred three have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.Drive-thru testing is currently available at two Reno County Locations at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson and at Simply Good Overstocks at 401 N Main in South Hutchinson.Both sites are open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit <a href="https://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com.</a>

Sunday dashboard: Case count at 163, long-term care at 38, deaths at 134

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Police worked a fatal accident between a car and a pedestrian Saturday afternoon in the 700 block of East Avenue A. 

According to the police bulletin the time of call was 12:24 p.m. The pedestrian was killed. No names or details on the accident have been released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559617385052.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Police worked a fatal accident between a car and a pedestrian Saturday afternoon in the 700 block of East Avenue A. According to the police bulletin the time of call was 12:24 p.m. The pedestrian was killed. No names or details on the accident have been released.

Not many details on fatal Saturday afternoon accident

BOSTON (AP) — Kroger Co. says personal data, including Social Security numbers of some of its pharmacy and clinic customers, may have been stolen in the hack of a third-party vendor’s file-transfer service.

The Cincinnati-based grocery and pharmacy chain said in a statement Friday that it believes less than 1% of its customers were affected — specifically some using its Health and Money Services — as well as some current and former employees because a number of personnel records were apparently viewed.

It says it is notifying those potentially impacted, offering free credit-monitoring.

Kroger said the breach did not affect Kroger stores’ IT systems or grocery store systems or data and there has so far been no indication of fraud involving accessed personal data.

The company, which has 2,750 grocery retail stores and 2,200 pharmacies nationwide, said Sunday in response to questions from The Associated Press that an investigation into the scope of the hack was ongoing.

A Kroger spokeswoman said via email that affected patient information could include “names, email addresses, phone numbers, home addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers” as well as information on health insurance, prescriptions and medical history.

Federal law requires organizations that handle personal healthcare information to inform the Department of Health and Human Services of any data breaches.

Kroger said it was among victims of the December hack of a file-transfer product called FTA developed by Accellion, a California-based company, and that it was notified of the incident on Jan. 23, when it discontinued use of Accellion’s services. Companies use the file-transfer product to share large amounts of data and hefty email attachments.

Accellion has more than 3,000 customers worldwide. It has said that the affected product was 20 years old and nearing the end of its life. The company said on Feb. 1 that it had patched all known FTA vulnerabilities.

Other Accellion customers affected by the hack include the University of Colorado, Washington State’s auditor, Australia’s financial regulator, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and the prominent U.S. law firm Jones Day.

BOSTON (AP) — Kroger Co. says personal data, including Social Security numbers of some of its pharmacy and clinic customers, may have been stolen in the hack of a third-party vendor’s file-transfer service.The Cincinnati-based grocery and pharmacy chain said in a statement Friday that it believes less than 1% of its customers were affected — specifically some using its Health and Money Services — as well as some current and former employees because a number of personnel records were apparently viewed.It says it is notifying those potentially impacted, offering free credit-monitoring.Kroger said the breach did not affect Kroger stores’ IT systems or grocery store systems or data and there has so far been no indication of fraud involving accessed personal data.The company, which has 2,750 grocery retail stores and 2,200 pharmacies nationwide, said Sunday in response to questions from The Associated Press that an investigation into the scope of the hack was ongoing.A Kroger spokeswoman said via email that affected patient information could include “names, email addresses, phone numbers, home addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers” as well as information on health insurance, prescriptions and medical history.Federal law requires organizations that handle personal healthcare information to inform the Department of Health and Human Services of any data breaches.Kroger said it was among victims of the December hack of a file-transfer product called FTA developed by Accellion, a California-based company, and that it was notified of the incident on Jan. 23, when it discontinued use of Accellion’s services. Companies use the file-transfer product to share large amounts of data and hefty email attachments.Accellion has more than 3,000 customers worldwide. It has said that the affected product was 20 years old and nearing the end of its life. The company said on Feb. 1 that it had patched all known FTA vulnerabilities.Other Accellion customers affected by the hack include the University of Colorado, Washington State’s auditor, Australia’s financial regulator, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and the prominent U.S. law firm Jones Day.

Third-party vendor for Kroger hacked

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Finding ways to improve the air quality in schools will be a part of Monday’s Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education meeting.

Administration is asking the Board of Education to approve a contract with Design Construction Services for $433,589. The project includes the installation of air purifiers in all USD 308 HVAC units.&nbsp;

The contractor will provide and install 513 air purifiers in all of the rooftop units, air handler units, and VRF cassettes. The I-wave units, as they are called, use ionization to reduce pathogens, COVID-19, allergens, particles, smoke and odors. The I-wave units have been installed at HutchCC, some Reno county districts, and several Kansas school districts. CARES-2 funding will be used to pay for the project.&nbsp;

Also Monday, the board will seek approval for the purchase of 75 desktop computers for the Career and Technical Education Academy at a cost of $56,349, and go over several other software and technology purchases.

The board will also go into executive session for several personnel matters at the end of the meeting. 

Monday’s meeting of the Hutchinson USD 308 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the Career and Technical Education Academy at 800 15th Circle.

<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/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Finding ways to improve the air quality in schools will be a part of Monday’s Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education meeting.Administration is asking the Board of Education to approve a contract with Design Construction Services for $433,589. The project includes the installation of air purifiers in all USD 308 HVAC units.&nbsp;The contractor will provide and install 513 air purifiers in all of the rooftop units, air handler units, and VRF cassettes. The I-wave units, as they are called, use ionization to reduce pathogens, COVID-19, allergens, particles, smoke and odors. The I-wave units have been installed at HutchCC, some Reno county districts, and several Kansas school districts. CARES-2 funding will be used to pay for the project.&nbsp;Also Monday, the board will seek approval for the purchase of 75 desktop computers for the Career and Technical Education Academy at a cost of $56,349, and go over several other software and technology purchases.The board will also go into executive session for several personnel matters at the end of the meeting. Monday’s meeting of the Hutchinson USD 308 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the Career and Technical Education Academy at 800 15th Circle.<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;

School board looking to improve air quality

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners will consider a number of equipment purchases for the Public Works department during Tuesday’s agenda session.

The board will look over more than $400,000 worth of purchases, including two new pickups, a hydraulic trailer, two tractors and a mower attachment, and a new excavator. All of the purchases are part of the consent agenda.

Also Tuesday, the board will get an update from Adam Weishaar of the Emergency Management Department, then hold a public hearing and take final action on the closing out of the CDBG-CV grant fund. The pandemic-related fund was to help small businesses in the county deal with expenses during the height of the pandemic. The grant totaled $132,000.

The board will hold more discussion regarding wind farms in the county. It is not clear if any action will be taken following that discussion.

Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613769662116.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners will consider a number of equipment purchases for the Public Works department during Tuesday’s agenda session.The board will look over more than $400,000 worth of purchases, including two new pickups, a hydraulic trailer, two tractors and a mower attachment, and a new excavator. All of the purchases are part of the consent agenda.Also Tuesday, the board will get an update from Adam Weishaar of the Emergency Management Department, then hold a public hearing and take final action on the closing out of the CDBG-CV grant fund. The pandemic-related fund was to help small businesses in the county deal with expenses during the height of the pandemic. The grant totaled $132,000.The board will hold more discussion regarding wind farms in the county. It is not clear if any action will be taken following that discussion.Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.<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.

Commission to take action on Public Works purchases

OTTAWA – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz on Thursday announced the awarding of $13.5 million for 18 projects selected for inclusion in its Transportation Alternatives (TA) program for Federal Fiscal Year 2022-23. One of those projects is the Cleveland Avenue path in Sterling. That project was awarded $302,157.

The Transportation Alternatives Program funds projects focused almost entirely on planning for and building infrastructure for safe, accessible and connected pedestrian and cycling networks. 

Funds for this program come from the Federal Highway Administration and are currently the primary source of KDOT funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School. The program also funds surface transportation projects of a historical nature and scenic and environmental projects, including Main Street beautification projects.

KDOT made selections based on criteria such as safety and network improvements, connectivity, cost estimates, project readiness, public support and other factors. Each project sponsor must commit to providing at least 20 percent of the cost of the project as a local cash match.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597694281633.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OTTAWA – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz on Thursday announced the awarding of $13.5 million for 18 projects selected for inclusion in its Transportation Alternatives (TA) program for Federal Fiscal Year 2022-23. One of those projects is the Cleveland Avenue path in Sterling. That project was awarded $302,157.The Transportation Alternatives Program funds projects focused almost entirely on planning for and building infrastructure for safe, accessible and connected pedestrian and cycling networks. Funds for this program come from the Federal Highway Administration and are currently the primary source of KDOT funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School. The program also funds surface transportation projects of a historical nature and scenic and environmental projects, including Main Street beautification projects.KDOT made selections based on criteria such as safety and network improvements, connectivity, cost estimates, project readiness, public support and other factors. Each project sponsor must commit to providing at least 20 percent of the cost of the project as a local cash match.

Sterling project among those selected for Transportation Alternatives funds

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After a two week delay the Apple Lane bridge project is finally set to begin on Monday. The project was to start February 8, but two weeks of bitterly cold weather pushed the project back to February 22.&nbsp;

Work includes removing the old wooden span north of 17th Avenue and then replacing it with a box culvert. Plans are to completely reconstruct Apple Lane later this summer.

If all goes as planned the bridge project should be completed by April 1. If you need any information on this or any other city street project, contact Hutchinson public works at 620-694-1900.

<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/2021/2/1613664565922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After a two week delay the Apple Lane bridge project is finally set to begin on Monday. The project was to start February 8, but two weeks of bitterly cold weather pushed the project back to February 22.&nbsp;Work includes removing the old wooden span north of 17th Avenue and then replacing it with a box culvert. Plans are to completely reconstruct Apple Lane later this summer.If all goes as planned the bridge project should be completed by April 1. If you need any information on this or any other city street project, contact Hutchinson public works at 620-694-1900.<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;

After two week delay, Apple Lane project begins Monday

RENO COUNTY—A Hutchinson teen was injured in an accident just after 9:30 p.m. Friday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 GMC Sierra 1500 driven by 47-year-old Ann Yoder of Hutchinson, was eastbound on Mills Avenue at the Kansas 14 Junction.

The driver failed to yield to a northbound 2000 Toyota Rav4 driven by 18-year-old Jordan Taylor West of Hutchinson.&nbsp;

EMS transported West to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Yoder was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—A Hutchinson teen was injured in an accident just after 9:30 p.m. Friday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 GMC Sierra 1500 driven by 47-year-old Ann Yoder of Hutchinson, was eastbound on Mills Avenue at the Kansas 14 Junction.The driver failed to yield to a northbound 2000 Toyota Rav4 driven by 18-year-old Jordan Taylor West of Hutchinson.&nbsp;EMS transported West to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Yoder was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Local