HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven USD 312 School Board gave approval to hiring a contractor for a major renovation project at the high school.&nbsp;

After interviewing three potential clients, the board selected Weins and Company as the contractor and Construction Management at Risk provider for the high school auditorium project.

The plans are to renovate the auditorium seats, lighting, and sound system for the auditorium along with an overall face lift. The cost is estimated at $300,000. If all goes as planned work would begin this summer.

Also Monday, the board approved the calendar for the 2021-22 school year. As approved the year would begin August 18. The students would get three days off at Thanksgiving and then two weeks at Christmas starting December 17 and running through January 4.

Spring break would run March 14 through 18 and students would be dismissed for the summer May 18, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585345243110.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven USD 312 School Board gave approval to hiring a contractor for a major renovation project at the high school.&nbsp;After interviewing three potential clients, the board selected Weins and Company as the contractor and Construction Management at Risk provider for the high school auditorium project.The plans are to renovate the auditorium seats, lighting, and sound system for the auditorium along with an overall face lift. The cost is estimated at $300,000. If all goes as planned work would begin this summer.Also Monday, the board approved the calendar for the 2021-22 school year. As approved the year would begin August 18. The students would get three days off at Thanksgiving and then two weeks at Christmas starting December 17 and running through January 4.Spring break would run March 14 through 18 and students would be dismissed for the summer May 18, 2022.

USD 312 approves construction contract 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the first time since October, the majority of Hutchinson USD 308 students will return to regular class schedules on Feb. 15.

During his update to the Board of Education Monday, Feb. 8, 2021, Superintendent Mike Folks told members he planned to bring students back for in-person instruction on Feb. 15. This does not affect students who are signed up to be remote learners for the remainder of the year. The Board had given Folks the latitude to bring all students back during its Jan. 25 meeting.

The last time the district was on a non-remote/non-hybrid schedule for all students was Oct. 2.

The community’s lower positive test rate as well as safety initiatives taken by the district prompted the return to the classroom. The Centers for Disease Control and Kansas State Board of Education as well have called on districts to return to in-person classes.

Also during Monday’s meeting, the Board:

Received an update on district iReady scores.

Approved minutes from the Jan. 25, 2021, Board meeting.

Approved the submitted grant application.

Approved the Accounts Payable Report for January 2021.

Held executive sessions for non-elected personnel and negotiations.

The Board approved the following personnel changes in the district.

Stephanie Whittit, Substitute Teacher, District, effective January 25, 2021

Andrea Thorpe, Night Custodian, Hutchinson High School, effective February 15, 2021

Barbara Weber, Classified Substitute, District, effective January 27, 2021

Madyson Regier, Assistant Coach Softball, Hutchinson High School, effective February 1, 2021

Janice Burns, Food Service Secretary, Morgan Elementary, effective February 5, 2021

Raymond Barry, BSS Para, McCandless, effective January 8, 2021

Jazmyne Lamunyon, Custodian, Ave A/Lincoln/Early Ed, effective February 26, 2021

Adam Krol, Head Varsity Assistant Coach Softball, Hutchinson High School, effective January 26, 2021

Laurie Anderson, HR Specialist, Administration Center, effective July 1, 2021

Rita Voth, Social Worker, Morgan Elementary, effective June 1, 2021

Shawn Davis, Teacher Aide, Avenue A School, effective January 25, 2021

Jenny Siepert, from Educational Aide, to COVID Educational Aide, effective January 21, 2021

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

$1,050 from John R. and Bethene S. Rimmer Fund for Early Childhood Education &amp; Enrichment to Avenue A for Student personal basic needs

$1,451 from Hutchinson Community Foundation, Helen Adams Hamilton Endowment to Head Start for Student needs

$500 from Suzanne Koonce to Wiley Elementary for Student needs

$1,300 from Rimmer Donation to Wiley Elementary for Student needs

$108.48 from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church to Faris for Students

Staff goody bags from Eastwood Church of Christ to Faris for Staff Encouragement

Breakfast from Crosspoint Church to Faris for Staff Encouragement

Coats, hats &amp; gloves from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church to Faris for Students

School Supplies from Walmart to Faris for Students

$40 and supplies from Bill Durbin to Faris for Students

Staff luncheon from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church to Faris for Staff Encouragement

Shirts for students &amp; Staff from Crosspoint Church to Faris for Students &amp; Staff

$1,425 from John &amp; Beth Rimmer Fund to Faris for Students

Shoes from Crosspoint Church to Faris for Students

$250 from Grace Episcopal Church to Faris for Students

$460 from Hutchinson STEM Magnet School PTA to Hutchinson STEM Magnet for Outdoor classroom

$1,150 from Hutchinson Community Foundation Rimmer Fund to Hutchinson STEM Magnet for K-2 basic items for academic success

Here's How That Happened! Folk Tales for Children from Natalee Ganyon (Author) to All elementary schools for Library books

The next regular meeting of the Board will be at 6 p.m. Feb. 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the first time since October, the majority of Hutchinson USD 308 students will return to regular class schedules on Feb. 15.During his update to the Board of Education Monday, Feb. 8, 2021, Superintendent Mike Folks told members he planned to bring students back for in-person instruction on Feb. 15. This does not affect students who are signed up to be remote learners for the remainder of the year. The Board had given Folks the latitude to bring all students back during its Jan. 25 meeting.The last time the district was on a non-remote/non-hybrid schedule for all students was Oct. 2.The community’s lower positive test rate as well as safety initiatives taken by the district prompted the return to the classroom. The Centers for Disease Control and Kansas State Board of Education as well have called on districts to return to in-person classes.Also during Monday’s meeting, the Board:Received an update on district iReady scores.Approved minutes from the Jan. 25, 2021, Board meeting.Approved the submitted grant application.Approved the Accounts Payable Report for January 2021.Held executive sessions for non-elected personnel and negotiations.Personnel ReportThe Board approved the following personnel changes in the district.HiredStephanie Whittit, Substitute Teacher, District, effective January 25, 2021Andrea Thorpe, Night Custodian, Hutchinson High School, effective February 15, 2021Barbara Weber, Classified Substitute, District, effective January 27, 2021Madyson Regier, Assistant Coach Softball, Hutchinson High School, effective February 1, 2021ResignationsJanice Burns, Food Service Secretary, Morgan Elementary, effective February 5, 2021Raymond Barry, BSS Para, McCandless, effective January 8, 2021Jazmyne Lamunyon, Custodian, Ave A/Lincoln/Early Ed, effective February 26, 2021Adam Krol, Head Varsity Assistant Coach Softball, Hutchinson High School, effective January 26, 2021RetirementsLaurie Anderson, HR Specialist, Administration Center, effective July 1, 2021Rita Voth, Social Worker, Morgan Elementary, effective June 1, 2021TerminationShawn Davis, Teacher Aide, Avenue A School, effective January 25, 2021Position ChangeJenny Siepert, from Educational Aide, to COVID Educational Aide, effective January 21, 2021Gifts to SchoolsThe Board formally accepted and thanked the donors of the following gifts.$1,050 from John R. and Bethene S. Rimmer Fund for Early Childhood Education &amp; Enrichment to Avenue A for Student personal basic needs$41.86 from Kroger to Avenue A$1,451 from Hutchinson Community Foundation, Helen Adams Hamilton Endowment to Head Start for Student needs$500 from Suzanne Koonce to Wiley Elementary for Student needs$1,300 from Rimmer Donation to Wiley Elementary for Student needs$108.48 from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church to Faris for StudentsStaff goody bags from Eastwood Church of Christ to Faris for Staff EncouragementBreakfast from Crosspoint Church to Faris for Staff EncouragementCoats, hats &amp; gloves from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church to Faris for StudentsSchool Supplies from Walmart to Faris for Students$40 and supplies from Bill Durbin to Faris for StudentsStaff luncheon from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church to Faris for Staff EncouragementShirts for students &amp; Staff from Crosspoint Church to Faris for Students &amp; Staff$1,425 from John &amp; Beth Rimmer Fund to Faris for Students$200 from RCB Bank to Faris for StudentsShoes from Crosspoint Church to Faris for Students$250 from Grace Episcopal Church to Faris for Students$460 from Hutchinson STEM Magnet School PTA to Hutchinson STEM Magnet for Outdoor classroom$1,150 from Hutchinson Community Foundation Rimmer Fund to Hutchinson STEM Magnet for K-2 basic items for academic successHere's How That Happened! Folk Tales for Children from Natalee Ganyon (Author) to All elementary schools for Library booksNext meetingThe next regular meeting of the Board will be at 6 p.m. Feb. 22.

USD 308 students coming back in person February 15

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The trend as far as case count continues downward in Reno County.

The Reno County overall case count is at 272 as of Monday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 130.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 3 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 67 active cases. Forty-nine people within those clusters have died. There are 20 active clusters in the county.

Out of 7,580 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 271 cases in the community at large. 7,178 people have recovered thus far.

Six Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred fifty eight total have been hospitalized. One hundred two have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.52%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.15%. 37.51% of the population has been tested.

There are still two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. They are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612786086400.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The trend as far as case count continues downward in Reno County.The Reno County overall case count is at 272 as of Monday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 130.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 3 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 67 active cases. Forty-nine people within those clusters have died. There are 20 active clusters in the county.Out of 7,580 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 271 cases in the community at large. 7,178 people have recovered thus far.Six Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred fifty eight total have been hospitalized. One hundred two have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 27.52%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.15%. 37.51% of the population has been tested.There are still two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. They are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Case counts continue down, just 3 Correctional Facility cluster cases

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Kansas Senate bill that failed to gain any traction last year is back on its way through the state legislature. Senate Bill 13 would lift the tax lid on local taxing entities but would force them to be more transparent in how they generate funds. The bill is seen as an effort to hold local government entities more accountable financially.&nbsp;

“Technically, there’s no tax lid,” County Administrator Randy Partington said. “It’s making cities, counties, other taxing entities...any increase in taxes assessed above the revenue neutral rate they would have to go through this notification process.”

While that may sound good, for the county it will make things more difficult in other ways, especially if the budget sees a noticeable increase in financial need.

“It gets rid of the tax lid,” Partington says. “But it causes a lot of extra red tape and paperwork and process that’s going to cost cities and counties money.”&nbsp;

One good thing for taxpayers is that it will let you see how you are being taxed by each government entity and education system.

“What it does is it puts it all on one notice for all of the taxing entities that they pay for,” Partington said. “Instead of a mill levy, what they’ll see, for a $100,000 home, here’s what my taxes will be for Reno County, City of Hutchinson, Hutchinson Community College and etc.”

All government entities and education systems already post budget hearings and their numbers each year. Partington says in that aspect this will be no different.

“We’ll still publish the budget, put a public hearing notice ten days before the public hearing,” Partington said. “All taxpayers have the right currently to come and protest or comment about the budget before it’s adopted.”&nbsp;

While all government entities hold a public hearing on the budget, few if any of the public traditionally show up to speak on it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595433480053.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Kansas Senate bill that failed to gain any traction last year is back on its way through the state legislature. Senate Bill 13 would lift the tax lid on local taxing entities but would force them to be more transparent in how they generate funds. The bill is seen as an effort to hold local government entities more accountable financially.&nbsp;“Technically, there’s no tax lid,” County Administrator Randy Partington said. “It’s making cities, counties, other taxing entities...any increase in taxes assessed above the revenue neutral rate they would have to go through this notification process.”While that may sound good, for the county it will make things more difficult in other ways, especially if the budget sees a noticeable increase in financial need.“It gets rid of the tax lid,” Partington says. “But it causes a lot of extra red tape and paperwork and process that’s going to cost cities and counties money.”&nbsp;One good thing for taxpayers is that it will let you see how you are being taxed by each government entity and education system.“What it does is it puts it all on one notice for all of the taxing entities that they pay for,” Partington said. “Instead of a mill levy, what they’ll see, for a $100,000 home, here’s what my taxes will be for Reno County, City of Hutchinson, Hutchinson Community College and etc.”All government entities and education systems already post budget hearings and their numbers each year. Partington says in that aspect this will be no different.“We’ll still publish the budget, put a public hearing notice ten days before the public hearing,” Partington said. “All taxpayers have the right currently to come and protest or comment about the budget before it’s adopted.”&nbsp;While all government entities hold a public hearing on the budget, few if any of the public traditionally show up to speak on it.

Local governments keeping eye on Senate tax transparency bill

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After battling through the 2020 pandemic Siemens Gamesa registered a solid start to fiscal year 2021, supported particularly by strong performance in the offshore and service sectors that led to an increase in revenue year-on-year, according to a release from the company.

Revenue increased by 15% year-on-year in the first quarter to $2.765 billion, driven by strong sales performance by both offshore and service. Onshore sales continue to be affected by some delays in project execution as a result of restrictions on the movement of people and goods due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but this impact was lower than in the previous fiscal year, and it is expected to tail off over the coming quarters as the vaccine is rolled out.&nbsp;

“Our performance in the first quarter shows our commitment to prioritizing profitability (over volume), cash flow and sustainability, which are the levers of our strategy to put the company back on track to sustainable profitability. At the same time, our performance shows that Siemens Gamesa occupies a leading position in driving the transition towards non-polluting energies,” Andreas Nauen, Siemens Gamesa’s Chief Executive Officer said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Order intake in the quarter stood at $2.748 billion, with the onshore business unit collecting $1.950 billion in new orders in the first quarter. The number represents a volume of 2,360 MW which is an 8% drop year-over-year. The number reflects the lower contribution from China, the weakness of the Indian market, and the company's new commercial strategy to prioritize returns over volume.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607017503991.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After battling through the 2020 pandemic Siemens Gamesa registered a solid start to fiscal year 2021, supported particularly by strong performance in the offshore and service sectors that led to an increase in revenue year-on-year, according to a release from the company.Revenue increased by 15% year-on-year in the first quarter to $2.765 billion, driven by strong sales performance by both offshore and service. Onshore sales continue to be affected by some delays in project execution as a result of restrictions on the movement of people and goods due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but this impact was lower than in the previous fiscal year, and it is expected to tail off over the coming quarters as the vaccine is rolled out.&nbsp;“Our performance in the first quarter shows our commitment to prioritizing profitability (over volume), cash flow and sustainability, which are the levers of our strategy to put the company back on track to sustainable profitability. At the same time, our performance shows that Siemens Gamesa occupies a leading position in driving the transition towards non-polluting energies,” Andreas Nauen, Siemens Gamesa’s Chief Executive Officer said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Order intake in the quarter stood at $2.748 billion, with the onshore business unit collecting $1.950 billion in new orders in the first quarter. The number represents a volume of 2,360 MW which is an 8% drop year-over-year. The number reflects the lower contribution from China, the weakness of the Indian market, and the company's new commercial strategy to prioritize returns over volume.&nbsp;

Siemens Gamesa off to strong start in 2021

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Because of the bitter cold weather forecast this week, Hutchinson Public Works announced that the start of the Apple Lane project has been delayed.

The project is now expected to begin Feb. 15. The first phase of the project includes removing the existing wooden bridge just north of 17th Avenue and replacing it with a box culvert. The project is expected to take about six weeks to complete. Detours will be provided during that phase of construction.&nbsp;

Work will also include a complete rebuilding of the road between 17th and 30th avenues later. For more information on this or any other street project, contact Hutchinson Public Works at 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612819719763.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Because of the bitter cold weather forecast this week, Hutchinson Public Works announced that the start of the Apple Lane project has been delayed.The project is now expected to begin Feb. 15. The first phase of the project includes removing the existing wooden bridge just north of 17th Avenue and replacing it with a box culvert. The project is expected to take about six weeks to complete. Detours will be provided during that phase of construction.&nbsp;Work will also include a complete rebuilding of the road between 17th and 30th avenues later. For more information on this or any other street project, contact Hutchinson Public Works at 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.

Apple Lane bridge project delayed because of weather

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System says employees donated $12,306 to 12 Reno County nonprofit organizations during 2020 as part of the monthly Jeans Day promotion.

Jeans Day was established in 2011 at Hutch Regional. Employees voluntarily donate $3 weekly or $10 monthly for the privilege of wearing jeans on Fridays during the year. Funds collected each month are donated to a different nonprofit in Reno County.

Receiving Jeans Day Dollars during the past year were Hutchinson School of Tae Kwon Do, the Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation, Vieyra Foundation for the Arts, Sleep Tight Foundation, Horizons Mental Health Center, Laundry Love, Hutchinson Recreation Foundation, CASA, Hospice and Homecare of Reno County, Crime Stoppers, Open Door Pregnancy, and Meals on Wheels.

A special committee made up of Hutch Regional employees meets annually to select recipients of Jeans Day Dollars for the following year. All employees are invited to recommend nonprofit organizations for consideration.

Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said Jeans Day has contributed nearly $100,000 to area nonprofits over the last decade.

“Jeans Day is a fun event that provides Hutch Regional employees an opportunity to support a number of charitable organizations in our community,” Johnson said. “Where it’s feasible within our Healthcare System, it provides the opportunity to dress down on the last day of the work week, an option that I also enjoy.”

All entities within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System participate in Jeans Day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583428390224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System says employees donated $12,306 to 12 Reno County nonprofit organizations during 2020 as part of the monthly Jeans Day promotion.Jeans Day was established in 2011 at Hutch Regional. Employees voluntarily donate $3 weekly or $10 monthly for the privilege of wearing jeans on Fridays during the year. Funds collected each month are donated to a different nonprofit in Reno County.Receiving Jeans Day Dollars during the past year were Hutchinson School of Tae Kwon Do, the Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation, Vieyra Foundation for the Arts, Sleep Tight Foundation, Horizons Mental Health Center, Laundry Love, Hutchinson Recreation Foundation, CASA, Hospice and Homecare of Reno County, Crime Stoppers, Open Door Pregnancy, and Meals on Wheels.A special committee made up of Hutch Regional employees meets annually to select recipients of Jeans Day Dollars for the following year. All employees are invited to recommend nonprofit organizations for consideration.Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said Jeans Day has contributed nearly $100,000 to area nonprofits over the last decade.“Jeans Day is a fun event that provides Hutch Regional employees an opportunity to support a number of charitable organizations in our community,” Johnson said. “Where it’s feasible within our Healthcare System, it provides the opportunity to dress down on the last day of the work week, an option that I also enjoy.”All entities within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System participate in Jeans Day.<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.

HRHS donates through Jeans Day promotion

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Extension Service has reopened the application process for a new extension agent.

The agency thought it had the position filled when Lewis Crow was named the replacement for Darren Busick. He was to take on his new duties Jan. 10, but shortly after the first of the year, Crow told Kansas State University he was not taking the job in South Hutchinson and was going to work for the USDA.&nbsp;

The extension service says the application process will be ending soon and hopes to begin interviews soon.

Not long after Busick left, Kansas State University announced it was implementing a hiring freeze until June of 2021. At the urging of the extension service, officials were allowed to search out a new agent.

There is no timeline for when the agency will have the position filled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611667554363.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostSOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Extension Service has reopened the application process for a new extension agent.The agency thought it had the position filled when Lewis Crow was named the replacement for Darren Busick. He was to take on his new duties Jan. 10, but shortly after the first of the year, Crow told Kansas State University he was not taking the job in South Hutchinson and was going to work for the USDA.&nbsp;The extension service says the application process will be ending soon and hopes to begin interviews soon.Not long after Busick left, Kansas State University announced it was implementing a hiring freeze until June of 2021. At the urging of the extension service, officials were allowed to search out a new agent.There is no timeline for when the agency will have the position filled.<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.

Search continues for new extension agent

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Red Cross announced three
opportunities to give blood in the c9ounty this month. The three blood drives
will be held February 16 at the Clayworks at 125 N Main from 10 a.m. until 3
p.m.; February 26 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center from 9 a.m. until 3
p.m.; and finally in Pretty Prairie at the Graber Mercantile at 115 W Main.

You can make an appointment by gong to
redcrossblood.org&nbsp; or calling
1-800-733-2767 or 1-800 Red Cross. All blood types are needed to ensure a
reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two
other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17
years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed
by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may
be eligible to&nbsp;donate. 

High school students and other donors 18 years of age and
younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK
HERE</a>&nbsp;to
download the HutchPost mobile app.

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HERE</a>&nbsp;to
sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594833320537.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Red Cross announced three
opportunities to give blood in the c9ounty this month. The three blood drives
will be held February 16 at the Clayworks at 125 N Main from 10 a.m. until 3
p.m.; February 26 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center from 9 a.m. until 3
p.m.; and finally in Pretty Prairie at the Graber Mercantile at 115 W Main.You can make an appointment by gong to
redcrossblood.org&nbsp; or calling
1-800-733-2767 or 1-800 Red Cross. All blood types are needed to ensure a
reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two
other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17
years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed
by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may
be eligible to&nbsp;donate. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and
younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
<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.

Red Cross announces blood drives in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The parent company of Dillons Stores is
providing an incentive for its employees to get a COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp; Kroger says it will provide a one-time
payment of $100 to all associates who receive the
full&nbsp;manufacturer-recommended doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

In addition to the new vaccine payment, the company also
announced an additional $50 million investment to thank and reward associates
across its 35-state footprint, including a $100 store credit and 1,000 fuel
points for hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and
call center associates.&nbsp;Both rewards will be loaded to associates' loyalty
cards on Thursday, Feb. 11.

The one-time $100 vaccine payment will be offered to all
associates who receive the full&nbsp;manufacturer-recommended doses of the
COVID-19 vaccine and present appropriate proof of vaccination to their human
resources representative. Associates who cannot receive the vaccine due to
medical or religious reasons will have the option of completing an educational
health and safety course to receive the payment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584040619502.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The parent company of Dillons Stores is
providing an incentive for its employees to get a COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp; Kroger says it will provide a one-time
payment of $100 to all associates who receive the
full&nbsp;manufacturer-recommended doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.In addition to the new vaccine payment, the company also
announced an additional $50 million investment to thank and reward associates
across its 35-state footprint, including a $100 store credit and 1,000 fuel
points for hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and
call center associates.&nbsp;Both rewards will be loaded to associates' loyalty
cards on Thursday, Feb. 11.The one-time $100 vaccine payment will be offered to all
associates who receive the full&nbsp;manufacturer-recommended doses of the
COVID-19 vaccine and present appropriate proof of vaccination to their human
resources representative. Associates who cannot receive the vaccine due to
medical or religious reasons will have the option of completing an educational
health and safety course to receive the payment.
<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.

Dillons employees offered company incentive to get vaccinated


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The National Federation of Independent Business monthly jobs report shows that it is still tough to find good help right now.

"51% of small business owners reported hiring, or trying to hire, in January," said Kansas State Director Dan Murray. "Small business employers have plans to fill open positions, with a net 17% planning to create new jobs in the next three months."

Small businesses increased employment in January by 0.36 workers per firm on average over the past few months, up from 0.30 in December, a very strong 2 month performance.

"90% of those hiring or trying to hire reported few or no qualified applications," Murray said. "That was the problem heading in to the pandemic and it still persists and one of the things that plagued small business owners throughout the pandemic was the federal extension of unemployment benefits."

When people can make as much or more money working as they can not working, it's hard to get them to apply.

"In the construction sector, that's one of the fields that we've seen a significant boost during the pandemic, a lot of folks staying at home, looking at some of the projects they have at home, remodeling, construction, etc. continue to be strong," Murray said. "44% of the job openings are for skilled workers in the construction area. That's up three points from last month."

Seasonally adjusted, 33% of all owners reported job openings they could not fill in the current period, up one point from December.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600954270300.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The National Federation of Independent Business monthly jobs report shows that it is still tough to find good help right now."51% of small business owners reported hiring, or trying to hire, in January," said Kansas State Director Dan Murray. "Small business employers have plans to fill open positions, with a net 17% planning to create new jobs in the next three months."Small businesses increased employment in January by 0.36 workers per firm on average over the past few months, up from 0.30 in December, a very strong 2 month performance."90% of those hiring or trying to hire reported few or no qualified applications," Murray said. "That was the problem heading in to the pandemic and it still persists and one of the things that plagued small business owners throughout the pandemic was the federal extension of unemployment benefits."When people can make as much or more money working as they can not working, it's hard to get them to apply."In the construction sector, that's one of the fields that we've seen a significant boost during the pandemic, a lot of folks staying at home, looking at some of the projects they have at home, remodeling, construction, etc. continue to be strong," Murray said. "44% of the job openings are for skilled workers in the construction area. That's up three points from last month."Seasonally adjusted, 33% of all owners reported job openings they could not fill in the current period, up one point from December.

NFIB monthly jobs report shows some strength if businesses can find workers

I recently cleaned out my sock drawer, an overdue task that I hadn’t reached the appropriate level of boredom to tackle in a number of years. It also served as a reminder that I’m absolutely terrible at estimating just how useful a range of items will be in the future.

The top drawer of the walnut chest where my socks reside also has a habit of collecting an assortment of other items — loose change, notes on scraps of paper, cable clamps, buttons, stray ammunition — that either fell from the flat surface above or were “temporarily” stored for later.

There’s also a closet, basement, garage, shed and the center console of my truck holding valuable artifacts of various usefulness. I know I’m not alone in this affliction because the desire to stow away has a cherished history in my family. The paternal side at least.

If we had a family crest, “I’m going to use that someday,” would be the motto imprinted on it. I should note it’s entirely possible there is a crest stuffed in the bottom of a box somewhere just waiting to be rediscovered.

At the ranch, there were two very useful storage areas. The first was a set of cubbies inside that held maybe a ton of washers, nuts, bolts and other odds and ends. The lack of organization didn’t make it efficient, but if you needed a connecter, you’d find a suitable one eventually. Out back was the scrap pile of old oil pipe and steel plate that came in handy for all sorts of building and repair projects.

Upstairs was another story, however. The loft was stuffed with the “maybe someday” stuff stockpiled with leaner times in mind. Tires that had long since dry rotted, rusted rims, a crosscut saw with broken handles and other outdated tools.

I know those items were squirreled away with the best of intentions. On farms and ranches, it makes a good deal of sense to have a stockpile when the nearest hardware store is an hour roundtrip. The number of things that can go wrong is nearly limitless.

My hoarding habits are more about learned behavior than utility. Living in a 50-year-old home means I frequent the two nearby hardware stores enough to have memorized their layouts. It’s usually faster to find a given item at the store than it is to search my basement, garage or shed.

There’s a different satisfaction that comes from completing a project with that one item you saved long ago for the right occasion. It’s proof you were right. For me, though, that’s become an infrequent occurrence.

I don’t know precisely when something in storage loses its intended purpose and becomes junk, but I know it happens without warning. The rational part of me understands I should save far less stuff and significantly reduce the time I spend cleaning up clutter in the future.

After discarding a significant amount of junk from my sock drawer, including several actual pairs of socks, I still slid two aging cellphones into my dresser drawer. Everything of value on them has been transferred to my current phone, but each one would work if I really needed a replacement.

Will I ever use them again? Not likely. But they’re there if I want to use them someday.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauI recently cleaned out my sock drawer, an overdue task that I hadn’t reached the appropriate level of boredom to tackle in a number of years. It also served as a reminder that I’m absolutely terrible at estimating just how useful a range of items will be in the future.The top drawer of the walnut chest where my socks reside also has a habit of collecting an assortment of other items — loose change, notes on scraps of paper, cable clamps, buttons, stray ammunition — that either fell from the flat surface above or were “temporarily” stored for later.There’s also a closet, basement, garage, shed and the center console of my truck holding valuable artifacts of various usefulness. I know I’m not alone in this affliction because the desire to stow away has a cherished history in my family. The paternal side at least.If we had a family crest, “I’m going to use that someday,” would be the motto imprinted on it. I should note it’s entirely possible there is a crest stuffed in the bottom of a box somewhere just waiting to be rediscovered.At the ranch, there were two very useful storage areas. The first was a set of cubbies inside that held maybe a ton of washers, nuts, bolts and other odds and ends. The lack of organization didn’t make it efficient, but if you needed a connecter, you’d find a suitable one eventually. Out back was the scrap pile of old oil pipe and steel plate that came in handy for all sorts of building and repair projects.Upstairs was another story, however. The loft was stuffed with the “maybe someday” stuff stockpiled with leaner times in mind. Tires that had long since dry rotted, rusted rims, a crosscut saw with broken handles and other outdated tools.I know those items were squirreled away with the best of intentions. On farms and ranches, it makes a good deal of sense to have a stockpile when the nearest hardware store is an hour roundtrip. The number of things that can go wrong is nearly limitless.My hoarding habits are more about learned behavior than utility. Living in a 50-year-old home means I frequent the two nearby hardware stores enough to have memorized their layouts. It’s usually faster to find a given item at the store than it is to search my basement, garage or shed.There’s a different satisfaction that comes from completing a project with that one item you saved long ago for the right occasion. It’s proof you were right. For me, though, that’s become an infrequent occurrence.I don’t know precisely when something in storage loses its intended purpose and becomes junk, but I know it happens without warning. The rational part of me understands I should save far less stuff and significantly reduce the time I spend cleaning up clutter in the future.After discarding a significant amount of junk from my sock drawer, including several actual pairs of socks, I still slid two aging cellphones into my dresser drawer. Everything of value on them has been transferred to my current phone, but each one would work if I really needed a replacement.Will I ever use them again? Not likely. But they’re there if I want to use them someday."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Waiting for Someday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The tradition of sausage and sauerkraut continues at St. Peter's Church of Christ in Inman Monday, though the delivery method is different.

"If we would have had our traditional Ground Hog Dinner this year, it would have been our 79th," said Rev. Dennis Ureche. "Because of COVID and the pandemic, we've renamed it and are doing something different. We're calling it Sausage To Go."

Canton Lockers is providing the sausage this year.

"We'll be selling that this afternoon between 3:00 this afternoon and 7:00 this evening at the church," Ureche said. "Drive by and through on the Harvey Street side of the church to the fellowship hall and you can come up curbside, never have to leave your car out in this nasty weather and pick up your sausage for the year."

Proceeds will benefit the St. Peter's UCC Men's Fellowship.

"We had between 500 and 600 pounds of sausage made this year," Ureche said. "We wanted to make sure folks had something available to take with them. Since we've never done it this way before, we didn't know how much to make."

You can call 620-585-2627 to preorder, or just show up and see if there is any left. There will be signs to direct you from Center Street in Inman down to the correct side of the parking lot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612797495371.jpeg" alt="Sausage To Go Inman" />
 <figcaption>Sausage To Go Inman</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The tradition of sausage and sauerkraut continues at St. Peter's Church of Christ in Inman Monday, though the delivery method is different."If we would have had our traditional Ground Hog Dinner this year, it would have been our 79th," said Rev. Dennis Ureche. "Because of COVID and the pandemic, we've renamed it and are doing something different. We're calling it Sausage To Go."Canton Lockers is providing the sausage this year."We'll be selling that this afternoon between 3:00 this afternoon and 7:00 this evening at the church," Ureche said. "Drive by and through on the Harvey Street side of the church to the fellowship hall and you can come up curbside, never have to leave your car out in this nasty weather and pick up your sausage for the year."Proceeds will benefit the St. Peter's UCC Men's Fellowship."We had between 500 and 600 pounds of sausage made this year," Ureche said. "We wanted to make sure folks had something available to take with them. Since we've never done it this way before, we didn't know how much to make."You can call 620-585-2627 to preorder, or just show up and see if there is any left. There will be signs to direct you from Center Street in Inman down to the correct side of the parking lot.

 Traditional ground hog feed in Inman curbside event in 2021 Monday

A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 3 p.m. Monday.

Freezing drizzle will cause a glaze of ice on surfaces, including roadways.

Plan on slippery road conditions and ice accumulation  on vehicle windshields. These hazardous conditions will impact  the morning commute. Use extreme caution if travel is necessary  today.

Slow down and use caution while traveling.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612762263312.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 3 p.m. Monday.Freezing drizzle will cause a glaze of ice on surfaces, including roadways.Plan on slippery road conditions and ice accumulation on vehicle windshields. These hazardous conditions will impact the morning commute. Use extreme caution if travel is necessary today.Slow down and use caution while traveling.
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Winter Weather Advisory until 3 p.m. Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 291 as of Sunday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 128.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 4 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 66 active cases. Forty-nine people within those clusters have died. There are 20 active clusters in the county.

Out of 7,576 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 289 cases in the community at large. 7,157 people have recovered thus far.

Eleven Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred fifty seven total have been hospitalized. One hundred two have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.52%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.15%. 37.49% of the population has been tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612786086400.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 291 as of Sunday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 128.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 4 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 66 active cases. Forty-nine people within those clusters have died. There are 20 active clusters in the county.Out of 7,576 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 289 cases in the community at large. 7,157 people have recovered thus far.Eleven Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred fifty seven total have been hospitalized. One hundred two have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 27.52%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.15%. 37.49% of the population has been tested.There are still two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. They are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Case count below 300 total as of Sunday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is hosting its first Legislative Forum for the 2021 legislative session virtually on Saturday, February 20th&nbsp;from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.&nbsp; This event will be live-streamed on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HutchChamber/" target="_blank">Hutch Chamber Facebook Page</a>&nbsp;for those who want to participate.

During the forum, Reno County legislators will answer questions about topics of interest here in Kansas.&nbsp; Those wanting to submit questions for the forum can do so by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ChelseyD@hutchchamber.com" target="_blank">ChelseyD@hutchchamber.com</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/advocacy/legislativeforum" target="_blank">hutchchamber.com/advocacy/legislativeforum</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Reno County legislators invited to participate are Senator Mark Steffen, Representative Joe Seiwert, Representative Paul Waggoner, Representative Jason Probst, and Representative Michael Murphy.

The forum is presented by AT&amp;T with supporting sponsorship from Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System and organized by the Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee.&nbsp; Additional legislative forums have also been set for Saturday, March 13th&nbsp;and Saturday, April 10th.&nbsp; More details on these upcoming forums, including location, will be released soon.

For more information concerning Legislative&nbsp;Forums, contact Chelsey Dawson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:chelseyd@hutchchamber.com" target="_blank">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a>&nbsp;or (620) 662-3391.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592851747011.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is hosting its first Legislative Forum for the 2021 legislative session virtually on Saturday, February 20th&nbsp;from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.&nbsp; This event will be live-streamed on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HutchChamber/" target="_blank">Hutch Chamber Facebook Page</a>&nbsp;for those who want to participate.During the forum, Reno County legislators will answer questions about topics of interest here in Kansas.&nbsp; Those wanting to submit questions for the forum can do so by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ChelseyD@hutchchamber.com" target="_blank">ChelseyD@hutchchamber.com</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/advocacy/legislativeforum" target="_blank">hutchchamber.com/advocacy/legislativeforum</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Reno County legislators invited to participate are Senator Mark Steffen, Representative Joe Seiwert, Representative Paul Waggoner, Representative Jason Probst, and Representative Michael Murphy.The forum is presented by AT&amp;T with supporting sponsorship from Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System and organized by the Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee.&nbsp; Additional legislative forums have also been set for Saturday, March 13th&nbsp;and Saturday, April 10th.&nbsp; More details on these upcoming forums, including location, will be released soon.For more information concerning Legislative&nbsp;Forums, contact Chelsey Dawson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:chelseyd@hutchchamber.com" target="_blank">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a>&nbsp;or (620) 662-3391.

First Chamber legislative session is Feb 20

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;<a href="https://ksstorm.info/">KSStorm Info</a> Forecaster Scott Roberts is a central Kansas native.

"I'm from Pratt," Roberts said. "I've got a lot of relatives around. My grandmother lived in Hutchinson, raised my mom there. My mom graduated high school back in 1958, a Salthawk."

Roberts is an experienced radio man and storm chaser.

"Other places I've been in Kansas include Colby, Manhattan, Scott City, so I've kind of been all over the place," Roberts said. "I went to KFDI in 1998. That's where my news career really kind of took off. I was with them just about six years before I shifted over to KWCH and was working on their assignment desk as well as coordinating their chasers. Then a couple of years later I left to start my own business. At that point, I became one of the KWCH chasers and that's continued to this day."

Roberts was going to start doing some storm chasing tourism in recent years, but COVID-19 has put those plans on hold.

"It would affect me, because anybody who pays to be with me would then make it kind of a commercial trip," Roberts said. "Then we'd all be required to wear masks for the entire trip, whereas if I'm just going with the guys that I normally go with and we're just hanging out as friends and that kind of stuff, then it's each person's option as to whether they want to wear a mask for the whole time or not."

Roberts and Matthew Harding are providing regular forecasts to the Eagle Radio stations and also have taken over the <a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">weather page at Hutch Post.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612577901051.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;<a href="https://ksstorm.info/">KSStorm Info</a> Forecaster Scott Roberts is a central Kansas native."I'm from Pratt," Roberts said. "I've got a lot of relatives around. My grandmother lived in Hutchinson, raised my mom there. My mom graduated high school back in 1958, a Salthawk."Roberts is an experienced radio man and storm chaser."Other places I've been in Kansas include Colby, Manhattan, Scott City, so I've kind of been all over the place," Roberts said. "I went to KFDI in 1998. That's where my news career really kind of took off. I was with them just about six years before I shifted over to KWCH and was working on their assignment desk as well as coordinating their chasers. Then a couple of years later I left to start my own business. At that point, I became one of the KWCH chasers and that's continued to this day."Roberts was going to start doing some storm chasing tourism in recent years, but COVID-19 has put those plans on hold."It would affect me, because anybody who pays to be with me would then make it kind of a commercial trip," Roberts said. "Then we'd all be required to wear masks for the entire trip, whereas if I'm just going with the guys that I normally go with and we're just hanging out as friends and that kind of stuff, then it's each person's option as to whether they want to wear a mask for the whole time or not."Roberts and Matthew Harding are providing regular forecasts to the Eagle Radio stations and also have taken over the <a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">weather page at Hutch Post.</a>
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Forecaster Scott Roberts excited about Eagle partnership


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Educators are getting a little help from the IRS.

"People that are teachers, instructors, counselors, principals or even aides that spend at least 900 hours a year in classrooms K-12, if they're spending money for protective equipment that they need to protect themselves from COVID, face masks, hand sanitizer, gloves, just about anything, there's a long list at IRS.gov, they can deduct up to $250 for unreimbursed expenses for those items," said spokesperson Michael Devine. You don't have to itemize to do that."

Just be sure you have a receipt for whatever you claim.

"Have a receipt just in case the IRS would ask," Devine said. "That's probably not going to happen, but, in case it does, having receipts for anything on your tax return is a really good idea."

If more than one person in your family is an educator, you can both claim those expenses.

"If two educators are married, you can have up to $500 on that return," Devine said. "Not more than $250 each."

For more information about this, the COVID-related Tax Relief Act of 2020 and other tax changes, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/">IRS.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612613817430.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Educators are getting a little help from the IRS."People that are teachers, instructors, counselors, principals or even aides that spend at least 900 hours a year in classrooms K-12, if they're spending money for protective equipment that they need to protect themselves from COVID, face masks, hand sanitizer, gloves, just about anything, there's a long list at IRS.gov, they can deduct up to $250 for unreimbursed expenses for those items," said spokesperson Michael Devine. You don't have to itemize to do that."Just be sure you have a receipt for whatever you claim."Have a receipt just in case the IRS would ask," Devine said. "That's probably not going to happen, but, in case it does, having receipts for anything on your tax return is a really good idea."If more than one person in your family is an educator, you can both claim those expenses."If two educators are married, you can have up to $500 on that return," Devine said. "Not more than $250 each."For more information about this, the COVID-related Tax Relief Act of 2020 and other tax changes, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/">IRS.gov</a>.
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IRS: K-12 Educators can deduct PPE, hand sanitizer, etc.


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With the coldest temperatures of the season in the forecast this weekend and next week frozen or burst pipes can be a frustrating disruption.

"It doesn't matter whether it's copper, iron or PVC pipes, they can all crack and burst if they freeze," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "A crack as small as one eighth of an inch can spew up to 250 gallons of water a day, causing flooding, structural damage and the potential for mold."

Make sure everyone in your family knows where the water shut-off valve is and how it works.

"Make sure that your garden hoses are disconnected," Steward said. "Walk around your house and unhook any of those that may be still connected to the house. You don't want those to freeze. Especially if you have pipes toward the outside walls of your house, allow warm water to slightly drip overnight. That slow trickle of water can keep your pipes from freezing."

You may also look at opening cabinet doors to let warm air get to pipes under sinks.

"If you turn on your faucet and nothing comes out, your pipes are likely frozen," Steward said. "You can attempt to try to thaw them out. We recommend trying a hair dryer to thaw out a frozen pipe. Start with the section closest to the faucet and work your way out toward the coldest part of the pipe."

If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house, leave the water faucets turned on, and call a plumber.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612615424731.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy AAA Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy AAA Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With the coldest temperatures of the season in the forecast this weekend and next week frozen or burst pipes can be a frustrating disruption."It doesn't matter whether it's copper, iron or PVC pipes, they can all crack and burst if they freeze," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "A crack as small as one eighth of an inch can spew up to 250 gallons of water a day, causing flooding, structural damage and the potential for mold."Make sure everyone in your family knows where the water shut-off valve is and how it works."Make sure that your garden hoses are disconnected," Steward said. "Walk around your house and unhook any of those that may be still connected to the house. You don't want those to freeze. Especially if you have pipes toward the outside walls of your house, allow warm water to slightly drip overnight. That slow trickle of water can keep your pipes from freezing."You may also look at opening cabinet doors to let warm air get to pipes under sinks."If you turn on your faucet and nothing comes out, your pipes are likely frozen," Steward said. "You can attempt to try to thaw them out. We recommend trying a hair dryer to thaw out a frozen pipe. Start with the section closest to the faucet and work your way out toward the coldest part of the pipe."If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house, leave the water faucets turned on, and call a plumber.

AAA: Think ahead to prevent frozen pipes

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Saturday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Conner M. Brown, 19, Inman, was southbound on Kansas 61 two miles northeast of Hutchinson.

The driver lost control of the vehicle on icy roads. The pickup crossed the median and struck a 2006 GMC Acadia driven by&nbsp;Carey, Ryon C. Carey, 47, Lindsborg, head-on. The impact&nbsp; caused the GMC to roll onto its top in the west ditch.

EMS transported a passenger in the GMC James H. Baker, 57, Lindsborg, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained a the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Saturday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Conner M. Brown, 19, Inman, was southbound on Kansas 61 two miles northeast of Hutchinson.The driver lost control of the vehicle on icy roads. The pickup crossed the median and struck a 2006 GMC Acadia driven by&nbsp;Carey, Ryon C. Carey, 47, Lindsborg, head-on. The impact&nbsp; caused the GMC to roll onto its top in the west ditch.EMS transported a passenger in the GMC James H. Baker, 57, Lindsborg, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained a the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

One hospitalized after head-on crash on icy road

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will give consideration to hiring a new high school football coach during Monday’s meeting.

The board will take action to name Reginald Langford Jr. to head the football program. He replaces John Wellman, whose resignation was accepted during the board's January meeting.

Also on Monday, the board will take action on the class schedule for the high school. Under the proposal, the school day would be divided up into seven class periods starting next school year. The matter has already received support from the teachers as part of the latest negotiated agreement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will give consideration to hiring a new high school football coach during Monday’s meeting.The board will take action to name Reginald Langford Jr. to head the football program. He replaces John Wellman, whose resignation was accepted during the board's January meeting.Also on Monday, the board will take action on the class schedule for the high school. Under the proposal, the school day would be divided up into seven class periods starting next school year. The matter has already received support from the teachers as part of the latest negotiated agreement.Finally, the board will make two technology purchases. One will include 150 laptops for teachers at a cost of $158,850. The other is for 350 Chromebooks for students, which carries a price tag of $98,675.Monday’s Nickerson USD 309 School Board meeting 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 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.