HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 458 as of Thursday morning. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 27 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 7,294 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 437 cases in the community at large. 6,725 people have recovered thus far.

Fifteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-nine total have been hospitalized. Ninety-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.31%. 35.92% 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/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 458 as of Thursday morning. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 27 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 7,294 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 437 cases in the community at large. 6,725 people have recovered thus far.Fifteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-nine total have been hospitalized. Ninety-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.31%. 35.92% 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 at 458, with 437 in community as of Thursday afternoon, deaths still at 111

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department announced Thursday that the 2021 Master Police Officers (MPO)&nbsp; have been selected by Chief Jeff Hooper. The two new MPOs are Cory Schmidt and Enrique Rodriguez.&nbsp;

The MPO position is a yearly position where the officer must meet stringent qualifications in order to get or maintain the position of MPO. The position is not a promotion and is not a supervisor position, it is a position where the department can develop those officers who show they are the best of the best and prepare them to be the leaders of tomorrow. MPOs will be provided additional training and given more responsibilities to hone their skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MPOs can be recognized by their special badge and gold-in-color collar brass.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611268120467.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department announced Thursday that the 2021 Master Police Officers (MPO)&nbsp; have been selected by Chief Jeff Hooper. The two new MPOs are Cory Schmidt and Enrique Rodriguez.&nbsp;The MPO position is a yearly position where the officer must meet stringent qualifications in order to get or maintain the position of MPO. The position is not a promotion and is not a supervisor position, it is a position where the department can develop those officers who show they are the best of the best and prepare them to be the leaders of tomorrow. MPOs will be provided additional training and given more responsibilities to hone their skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;MPOs can be recognized by their special badge and gold-in-color collar brass.

HPD announces 2021 MPOs

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Authorities have arrested a man in connection with two reported rapes over the past several weeks.

The Reno County Sheriff's Department arrested Gabriel Trana Wednesday on suspicion of two counts of rape, aggravated sexual battery, and domestic battery.

He’s being held in the Reno County Correctional Facility on a bond of $112,500. Detectives could only release some information on the case, but did say the crimes involved two girls with one allegedly occurring in December and the other Tuesday night.

Trana is said to have known both of the victims in the case. Formal charges are expected in the coming days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611264670994.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Authorities have arrested a man in connection with two reported rapes over the past several weeks.The Reno County Sheriff's Department arrested Gabriel Trana Wednesday on suspicion of two counts of rape, aggravated sexual battery, and domestic battery.He’s being held in the Reno County Correctional Facility on a bond of $112,500. Detectives could only release some information on the case, but did say the crimes involved two girls with one allegedly occurring in December and the other Tuesday night.Trana is said to have known both of the victims in the case. Formal charges are expected in the coming days.

Man arrested in 2 rape cases

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Leaders of six state universities in Kansas will have more flexibility in deciding to suspend or fire employees, including tenured faculty, under a temporary policy approved by the Kansas Board of Regents.

The regents said Thursday that the new policy, which will be in effect until Dec. 31, 2022, was necessary because of costs associated with the coronavirus pandemic, a reduction in state funding and declining enrollment. Last week, Gov. Laura Kelly released a budget that included a $27 million cut for higher education.

The board gave CEOs of the universities 45 days to create frameworks they would use to determine whether to suspend, dismiss or fire employees. The frameworks could include factors such as performance evaluations, productivity, low enrollment or reduction in revenues for departments and schools.

Aleksander Sternfeld-Dunn, a Wichita State University associate professor representing the Council of Faculty Senate Presidents, told the regents the new policy essentially suspends tenure and will damage faculty morale, “which is already struggling under the pressures of teaching during the pandemic.”

“We also believe it will open up universities to potential abuses of power and could lead to numerous lawsuits around discrimination and harassment,” he said. “We believe that the policy as stated is really using a sledgehammer to crack a nut, and we think there are far more positive ways to go about managing financial difficulties.”

Under the policy, an employee will have the right to appeal a decision by a CEO affecting their employment, with the burden of proof on the employee. After the CEO responds to the appeal, the state’s Office of Administrative Hearings would have a hearing and make a final decision.

The board would reverse a CEO’s decision only if it was inconsistent with the university’s decision-making framework, was the result of bias or discrimination or was “otherwise unreasonable, arbitrary or capricious.”

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Leaders of six state universities in Kansas will have more flexibility in deciding to suspend or fire employees, including tenured faculty, under a temporary policy approved by the Kansas Board of Regents.The regents said Thursday that the new policy, which will be in effect until Dec. 31, 2022, was necessary because of costs associated with the coronavirus pandemic, a reduction in state funding and declining enrollment. Last week, Gov. Laura Kelly released a budget that included a $27 million cut for higher education.The board gave CEOs of the universities 45 days to create frameworks they would use to determine whether to suspend, dismiss or fire employees. The frameworks could include factors such as performance evaluations, productivity, low enrollment or reduction in revenues for departments and schools.Aleksander Sternfeld-Dunn, a Wichita State University associate professor representing the Council of Faculty Senate Presidents, told the regents the new policy essentially suspends tenure and will damage faculty morale, “which is already struggling under the pressures of teaching during the pandemic.”“We also believe it will open up universities to potential abuses of power and could lead to numerous lawsuits around discrimination and harassment,” he said. “We believe that the policy as stated is really using a sledgehammer to crack a nut, and we think there are far more positive ways to go about managing financial difficulties.”Under the policy, an employee will have the right to appeal a decision by a CEO affecting their employment, with the burden of proof on the employee. After the CEO responds to the appeal, the state’s Office of Administrative Hearings would have a hearing and make a final decision.The board would reverse a CEO’s decision only if it was inconsistent with the university’s decision-making framework, was the result of bias or discrimination or was “otherwise unreasonable, arbitrary or capricious.”

Regents give university CEOs more power to fire employees

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson police continue investigating the theft of the ATM outside of Peoples Bank and Trust at 601 E. 30th Saturday morning.

Police say a person in a business across the street noticed a pickup truck with a chain attached to it and the ATM laying on the ground around 5:30 a.m.

By the time authorities arrived, the truck was gone. Police say the truck was stolen out of Park City.

No other details have been made available and no arrests have been made.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602443151539.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson police continue investigating the theft of the ATM outside of Peoples Bank and Trust at 601 E. 30th Saturday morning.Police say a person in a business across the street noticed a pickup truck with a chain attached to it and the ATM laying on the ground around 5:30 a.m.By the time authorities arrived, the truck was gone. Police say the truck was stolen out of Park City.No other details have been made available and no arrests have been made.

Thieves steal ATM from local bank

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Schools announced Thursday that starting Monday, Jan. 25, Hutchinson High School will return to classes via the modified hybrid system.

Under the modified hybrid system, students with last names starting with the letters A through L attend in-person on Mondays and Wednesdays with students whose last names start with M through Z attend in-person on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All students attend remotely on Fridays.

Hutchinson elementary schools and middle schools have been on the modified hybrid system since returning to class after Winter Recess on Jan. 11.

The USD 308 Board of Education approved the plans for remote and modified hybrid learning in December. Future major changes will also be approved by the board.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Schools announced Thursday that starting Monday, Jan. 25, Hutchinson High School will return to classes via the modified hybrid system.Under the modified hybrid system, students with last names starting with the letters A through L attend in-person on Mondays and Wednesdays with students whose last names start with M through Z attend in-person on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All students attend remotely on Fridays.Hutchinson elementary schools and middle schools have been on the modified hybrid system since returning to class after Winter Recess on Jan. 11.The USD 308 Board of Education approved the plans for remote and modified hybrid learning in December. Future major changes will also be approved by the board.

HHS goes to hybrid learning platform Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson Clinic, and Prairie Star Health Center are starting to administer the second dose of the vaccine to health care workers and others identified in Phase One of the Kansas Vaccination Plan.

The RCMC received approval from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to proceed into Phase Two beginning Thursday.

Following guidance and recommendations of the Reno County Medical Collaborative (RCMC), three phase subsets have been identified for dispensing the initial allocations of vaccine:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	2a: Persons Aged 65+ (12,331 individuals)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	2b: Persons in Group Quarters/Congregate Living (2,526 individuals)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	2c: High-Contact Critical Workers (7,117 individuals)

Five hundred doses have been received this week. Because of the limited supply, the John Hopkins risk score, along with the stringent advice of clinicians, are being utilized to identify those at highest risk. Of those high-risk individuals, 500 have been identified to receive the vaccine. Individuals will be contacted by their primary care provider or the Reno County Health Department.

The goal is to efficiently administer all doses received each week. Weekly updates will include vaccine numbers and scheduling information.&nbsp;

Next week the Reno County Health Department will provide an update regarding online vaccine appointment registration.&nbsp;

For a definition of “High-Contact Critical Workers” and up-to-date information on the phases, please visit <a href="http://www.renogov.org/773/COVID-19-Vaccinations">www.renogov.org/773/COVID-19-Vaccinations</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608677701818.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson Clinic, and Prairie Star Health Center are starting to administer the second dose of the vaccine to health care workers and others identified in Phase One of the Kansas Vaccination Plan.The RCMC received approval from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to proceed into Phase Two beginning Thursday.Following guidance and recommendations of the Reno County Medical Collaborative (RCMC), three phase subsets have been identified for dispensing the initial allocations of vaccine:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	2a: Persons Aged 65+ (12,331 individuals)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	2b: Persons in Group Quarters/Congregate Living (2,526 individuals)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;	2c: High-Contact Critical Workers (7,117 individuals)Five hundred doses have been received this week. Because of the limited supply, the John Hopkins risk score, along with the stringent advice of clinicians, are being utilized to identify those at highest risk. Of those high-risk individuals, 500 have been identified to receive the vaccine. Individuals will be contacted by their primary care provider or the Reno County Health Department.The goal is to efficiently administer all doses received each week. Weekly updates will include vaccine numbers and scheduling information.&nbsp;Next week the Reno County Health Department will provide an update regarding online vaccine appointment registration.&nbsp;For a definition of “High-Contact Critical Workers” and up-to-date information on the phases, please visit <a href="http://www.renogov.org/773/COVID-19-Vaccinations">www.renogov.org/773/COVID-19-Vaccinations</a>.

RCMC gives vaccination update

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

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

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

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Dillon Stores announced plans for a new off-site Dillons Fuel Center at 429 E 4th Avenue in Hutchinson, KS to provide customers with even more convenience and savings with Dillons’ fuel rewards.  The fuel center will be located at the southwest corner of the intersection at 4th Avenue and Plum Street, accessibly located between Dillons at 725 E 4th Ave (4th Street Dillons) and Dillons at 206 W. 5th St. (5th &amp; Adams Dillons).  Construction is scheduled to begin on January 25 and is expected to be completed in spring 2021.

The new fuel center will feature seven fuel pumps with service for fourteen vehicles and offer both gasoline and diesel fuels with 24-hour service.  It will also include a service kiosk, complete with “on-the-go” items such as cold beverages, candy bars, and snacks.

“Our Dillons customers have asked for an additional fuel center in Hutchinson and we are happy to respond,” said Sheila Regehr, Dillons’ spokesperson.  “Once completed, customers can shop for groceries with us and then save instantly at the new fuel center just a few blocks away from their neighborhood store.  It’s all about convenience and saving our customers both time and money.” 

Customers enjoy savings of 2 cents off per gallon every day when they scan their Plus Card at the pump, or save 10 cents off per gallon, up to $1 off per gallon, when they participate in Dillons’ fuel rewards program.  With this program, 1 fuel point is earned for every $1 spent on qualifying purchases, double points on participating gift cards, or two eligible prescription drug fills.  Customers can then receive discounts automatically, when scanning their Plus Card at the pump.

“Fuel is such a major part of every household’s budget, so Dillons is glad to help our customers save with our fuel rewards.  Customers can shop with us and save instantly at the pump at the new Dillons Fuel Center.  It’s one of the ways we share our appreciation with our loyal customers every day,” said Regehr. 

Customers should see store or visit www.dillons.com for complete details of the fuel rewards program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611251337246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Dillons Food StoresHUTCHINSON, Kan. – Dillon Stores announced plans for a new off-site Dillons Fuel Center at 429 E 4th Avenue in Hutchinson, KS to provide customers with even more convenience and savings with Dillons’ fuel rewards. The fuel center will be located at the southwest corner of the intersection at 4th Avenue and Plum Street, accessibly located between Dillons at 725 E 4th Ave (4th Street Dillons) and Dillons at 206 W. 5th St. (5th &amp; Adams Dillons). Construction is scheduled to begin on January 25 and is expected to be completed in spring 2021.The new fuel center will feature seven fuel pumps with service for fourteen vehicles and offer both gasoline and diesel fuels with 24-hour service. It will also include a service kiosk, complete with “on-the-go” items such as cold beverages, candy bars, and snacks.“Our Dillons customers have asked for an additional fuel center in Hutchinson and we are happy to respond,” said Sheila Regehr, Dillons’ spokesperson. “Once completed, customers can shop for groceries with us and then save instantly at the new fuel center just a few blocks away from their neighborhood store. It’s all about convenience and saving our customers both time and money.” Customers enjoy savings of 2 cents off per gallon every day when they scan their Plus Card at the pump, or save 10 cents off per gallon, up to $1 off per gallon, when they participate in Dillons’ fuel rewards program. With this program, 1 fuel point is earned for every $1 spent on qualifying purchases, double points on participating gift cards, or two eligible prescription drug fills. Customers can then receive discounts automatically, when scanning their Plus Card at the pump.“Fuel is such a major part of every household’s budget, so Dillons is glad to help our customers save with our fuel rewards. Customers can shop with us and save instantly at the pump at the new Dillons Fuel Center. It’s one of the ways we share our appreciation with our loyal customers every day,” said Regehr. Customers should see store or visit www.dillons.com for complete details of the fuel rewards program.

New Dillons Fuel Center to go in at 4th and Plum


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Mental illness is not something that people should try to fight through without help, according to the CEO of Horizons Mental Health Center.

"It's almost a brain disease," said Mike Garrett with Horizons. "The chemicals within a person's brain aren't working the way that they are supposed to, and so we have some medications that will help those work the way that they are supposed to and that reduces their symptoms significantly. They function better. Their lives are fuller and it really is a disease process."

There really are people who can't just choose to behave differently.

"We have a hard time making that shift," Garrett said. "It's not a characterological thing. It's not a reflection of character. It really is an illness that these individuals have."

It's also important to note that there is no age limit to mental illness.

"Unfortunately, in our culture, we have a lot of people that experience pretty significant trauma very early in life," Garrett said. "Whether that's due to parents maybe having substance abuse problems or other problems that may be impacting the family. That trauma can just complicate anything that may be a preexisting condition."

Horizons and other community mental health centers across the state have been tasked for the last 30 years with doing a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to helping the mentally ill in Kansas and with continued issues going forward, it's important that those healthcare facilities be as supported as those dealing with physical injury.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611247623376.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Mental illness is not something that people should try to fight through without help, according to the CEO of Horizons Mental Health Center."It's almost a brain disease," said Mike Garrett with Horizons. "The chemicals within a person's brain aren't working the way that they are supposed to, and so we have some medications that will help those work the way that they are supposed to and that reduces their symptoms significantly. They function better. Their lives are fuller and it really is a disease process."There really are people who can't just choose to behave differently."We have a hard time making that shift," Garrett said. "It's not a characterological thing. It's not a reflection of character. It really is an illness that these individuals have."It's also important to note that there is no age limit to mental illness."Unfortunately, in our culture, we have a lot of people that experience pretty significant trauma very early in life," Garrett said. "Whether that's due to parents maybe having substance abuse problems or other problems that may be impacting the family. That trauma can just complicate anything that may be a preexisting condition."Horizons and other community mental health centers across the state have been tasked for the last 30 years with doing a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to helping the mentally ill in Kansas and with continued issues going forward, it's important that those healthcare facilities be as supported as those dealing with physical injury.

Horizons CEO: Mental illness needs to be treated every bit as much as physical

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Goessel man who fled from law
enforcement following a domestic dispute has been formally charged in Reno County.

Twenty-five-year-old Javin Foth is charged with aggravated battery
causing great bodily harm, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, flee and
elude, violation of protection order, aggravated assault of a law enforcement
officer and DUI.&nbsp;

Officers responded to
where the victim lived and she told officers that Foth attempted to hit her with a
vehicle as she tried to leave. Police later located Foth who then fled the area. A high speed chase ensued but was called off by law enforcement.

He was arrested after he was involved in a two-vehicle
accident a short time later in Hutchinson.

Foth remains jailed on a bond of $25,950.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605480622150.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Goessel man who fled from law
enforcement following a domestic dispute has been formally charged in Reno County.Twenty-five-year-old Javin Foth is charged with aggravated battery
causing great bodily harm, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, flee and
elude, violation of protection order, aggravated assault of a law enforcement
officer and DUI.&nbsp;Officers responded to
where the victim lived and she told officers that Foth attempted to hit her with a
vehicle as she tried to leave. Police later located Foth who then fled the area. A high speed chase ensued but was called off by law enforcement.He was arrested after he was involved in a two-vehicle
accident a short time later in Hutchinson.Foth remains jailed on a bond of $25,950.

Formal charges brought in domestic case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —
Union Pacific posted a strong fourth quarter despite the challenges brought on
by the pandemic. A more streamlined operation and lower fuel prices enabled the
nation’s largest railroad to post adjusted fourth quarter earnings of
$1.6 billion, compared with $1.4 billion in 2019. 

Operating revenue of
$5.1 billion was down 1% in fourth quarter 2020 compared to fourth quarter 2019.
Fourth quarter business volumes, as measured by total revenue carloads,
increased 3% compared to 2019. Premium volumes increased compared to 2019,
while bulk was flat and industrial declined. 

For the full year
2020, Union Pacific reported net income of $5.3 billion or $7.88 per diluted
share. &nbsp;

UP is the fourth
highest valued company in Reno County at $7.2 million and operates about 25
trains per day through the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585950044294.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —
Union Pacific posted a strong fourth quarter despite the challenges brought on
by the pandemic. A more streamlined operation and lower fuel prices enabled the
nation’s largest railroad to post adjusted fourth quarter earnings of
$1.6 billion, compared with $1.4 billion in 2019. Operating revenue of
$5.1 billion was down 1% in fourth quarter 2020 compared to fourth quarter 2019.
Fourth quarter business volumes, as measured by total revenue carloads,
increased 3% compared to 2019. Premium volumes increased compared to 2019,
while bulk was flat and industrial declined. For the full year
2020, Union Pacific reported net income of $5.3 billion or $7.88 per diluted
share. &nbsp;UP is the fourth
highest valued company in Reno County at $7.2 million and operates about 25
trains per day through the area.

Union Pacific reports strong 4Q 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper spoke to the Human Relations Commission Wednesday about his new Crisis Intervention Team.

"There are two officers from the agency that I got funding for through the City Council for this year that are assigned to that," Hooper said. "They are specially trained in crisis intervention, crisis deescalation. They will wear soft clothes, not even be visible as police officers."

There will also be a mental health professional on the team.

"Many of their calls, I just spoke with Chief yesterday," said Mike Garrett with Horizons Mental Health Center. "He's estimating that anywhere from 7 to 10%, possibly even a little bit higher of the calls that they are called out on have a mental health component to that."

There will also be a substance abuse professional involved.

"There is a substance abuse specialist on that team that's supplied by Mirror," Hooper said. "They are hired by Mirror, trained by Mirror, but they work out of the police department. Right now, it's a four person unit that will respond to those crisis situations together. My hope is that the program will be successful and more organizations will jump on board, so that we can have more than a four man team."

The intent is to keep the number of officers at two, but the hope is to get more potentially assisting community groups involved to add them to the team in the future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591796149452.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper spoke to the Human Relations Commission Wednesday about his new Crisis Intervention Team."There are two officers from the agency that I got funding for through the City Council for this year that are assigned to that," Hooper said. "They are specially trained in crisis intervention, crisis deescalation. They will wear soft clothes, not even be visible as police officers."There will also be a mental health professional on the team."Many of their calls, I just spoke with Chief yesterday," said Mike Garrett with Horizons Mental Health Center. "He's estimating that anywhere from 7 to 10%, possibly even a little bit higher of the calls that they are called out on have a mental health component to that."There will also be a substance abuse professional involved."There is a substance abuse specialist on that team that's supplied by Mirror," Hooper said. "They are hired by Mirror, trained by Mirror, but they work out of the police department. Right now, it's a four person unit that will respond to those crisis situations together. My hope is that the program will be successful and more organizations will jump on board, so that we can have more than a four man team."The intent is to keep the number of officers at two, but the hope is to get more potentially assisting community groups involved to add them to the team in the future.

Crisis Intervention Team to include mental health, substance abuse professionals


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Gas is going up and the rise is likely to continue.

"Since the beginning of the year, gas prices have been on the rise," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That continues over the past week. Today's Kansas average is $2.18 a gallon, which is up four cents from a week ago and an increase of 18 cents in the past month."

Close to home, gas is still relatively low compared to some other areas.

"Reno County and Hutchinson, both areas are a little lower than the state average coming it at $2.14 or $2.15," Steward said. "The Kansas average is eight cents less than we were a year ago."

Though it remains to be seen how long the pandemic will continue to have an effect on the market, in a typical year, you could expect prices to rise later in the year.

"In a normal year, winter is a low demand time," Steward said. "As temperatures rise in the spring and summer and more people get out on the road, not only for work, but for vacations, demand increases."

Also, Saudi Arabia has told OPEC it will be reducing production beginning in February, so supplies should tighten some, as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580240948974.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Gas is going up and the rise is likely to continue."Since the beginning of the year, gas prices have been on the rise," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That continues over the past week. Today's Kansas average is $2.18 a gallon, which is up four cents from a week ago and an increase of 18 cents in the past month."Close to home, gas is still relatively low compared to some other areas."Reno County and Hutchinson, both areas are a little lower than the state average coming it at $2.14 or $2.15," Steward said. "The Kansas average is eight cents less than we were a year ago."Though it remains to be seen how long the pandemic will continue to have an effect on the market, in a typical year, you could expect prices to rise later in the year."In a normal year, winter is a low demand time," Steward said. "As temperatures rise in the spring and summer and more people get out on the road, not only for work, but for vacations, demand increases."Also, Saudi Arabia has told OPEC it will be reducing production beginning in February, so supplies should tighten some, as well.

AAA: Gas prices still going up and probably will for a while

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 454 as of Wednesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 20 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 7,262 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 438 cases in the community at large. 6,698 people have recovered thus far.

Fifteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, 339 total have been hospitalized. Ninety-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.31%. 35.76% of the population has been tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 454 as of Wednesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 20 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 7,262 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 438 cases in the community at large. 6,698 people have recovered thus far.Fifteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, 339 total have been hospitalized. Ninety-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.31%. 35.76% 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 at 454, with 438 in community as of Wednesday afternoon

Midwest Energy, Inc., Kansas’ largest electric and natural gas cooperative, is seeking a Network/Telecommunications Administrator at its Hays office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Network / Telecommunications Administrator is to design, implement, maintain, and monitor the LAN/WAN/VPN Network and to provide an efficient and cost-effective telecommunications system.&nbsp; The position is responsible for implementing and maintaining all IP based telecommunication for the various corporate data and telephony systems.&nbsp; The administrator will work to obtain the highest level of network performance, consistent uptime and adhere to best practice network and telecommunication standards while working with the IT Security Administrator to guard against cyber-attacks or breaches.&nbsp;

Bachelor’s degree in an IT field of networking operating systems, computer science, data processing or related field preferred, or combination of work experience and education will be considered.&nbsp; Valid Kansas Driver’s license required.&nbsp;

For more information on job requirements and responsibilities, and to submit an application, visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>.&nbsp; Interested candidates should submit a resume with an application for employment to Midwest Energy Recruitment Services: recruitment@mwenergy.com.&nbsp; The application deadline is Feb. 3, 2021.&nbsp;

Midwest Energy, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest Energy, Inc., Kansas’ largest electric and natural gas cooperative, is seeking a Network/Telecommunications Administrator at its Hays office.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Network / Telecommunications Administrator is to design, implement, maintain, and monitor the LAN/WAN/VPN Network and to provide an efficient and cost-effective telecommunications system.&nbsp; The position is responsible for implementing and maintaining all IP based telecommunication for the various corporate data and telephony systems.&nbsp; The administrator will work to obtain the highest level of network performance, consistent uptime and adhere to best practice network and telecommunication standards while working with the IT Security Administrator to guard against cyber-attacks or breaches.&nbsp;Bachelor’s degree in an IT field of networking operating systems, computer science, data processing or related field preferred, or combination of work experience and education will be considered.&nbsp; Valid Kansas Driver’s license required.&nbsp;For more information on job requirements and responsibilities, and to submit an application, visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>.&nbsp; Interested candidates should submit a resume with an application for employment to Midwest Energy Recruitment Services: recruitment@mwenergy.com.&nbsp; The application deadline is Feb. 3, 2021.&nbsp;Midwest Energy, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.

Hooper says HPD working to hire more minorities

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — ppppSummit Surgical announced Wednesday that it has added Mark Keeton, Director of Service Reliability at IdeaTek Telcom, and Darrell Pankratz, CEO PrairieLand Partners, to its board of directors.

“We are thrilled to have these two local professionals join our board of directors,”Randy Roatch, Summit Surgical CEO, said. “Their dedication to health care and leadership make them a perfect combination to help guide our organization into the future.”

Keeton’s career spans nearly 20 years as a local pharmacist and servant leader in health care as the board president for the Cancer Council of Reno County.

Pankratz joins the Summit Surgical board with more than 30 years of local business leadership and has been involved for more than 25 years as a trustee member for Hutchinson Community College.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611175580527.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — ppppSummit Surgical announced Wednesday that it has added Mark Keeton, Director of Service Reliability at IdeaTek Telcom, and Darrell Pankratz, CEO PrairieLand Partners, to its board of directors.“We are thrilled to have these two local professionals join our board of directors,”Randy Roatch, Summit Surgical CEO, said. “Their dedication to health care and leadership make them a perfect combination to help guide our organization into the future.”Keeton’s career spans nearly 20 years as a local pharmacist and servant leader in health care as the board president for the Cancer Council of Reno County.Pankratz joins the Summit Surgical board with more than 30 years of local business leadership and has been involved for more than 25 years as a trustee member for Hutchinson Community College.

Summit Surgical announces new board members


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — COVID-19 has created government transparency concerns, but Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has said that most of the statehouse's business can be conducted online, however there is an important distinction when it comes to passing bills.

"Our constitution sets out very specific requirements for how votes are to be conducted by the legislature," Schmidt said. "Leaders over there had asked us for our legal opinion on how far they could go in conducting remote meetings. Basically, when you boil it all down, our advice was, you can do most things remotely, but when it comes to the act of actually casting the vote on final action on a bill, a piece of legislation, in order to be sure you remain in compliance with the constitution, you'd better do that physically and in person."

The opinion issued in December does clarify that the legislature has to meet in Topeka, but doesn't confine them to any specific building, though rules within the chambers can and as of now do so, but those chambers can choose to set those rules aside or change them as that chamber sees fit.

"What we've told them, essentially is, it's a sliding scale," Schmidt said. "We can tell you with 100% certainty, if you put 125 House members in one room at one time and they vote, that is legally defensible," Schmidt said. "That's the way they normally do it and there's no constitutional problem. We can also tell you, if, at the other end of the spectrum, you had people sitting in their individual homes, scattered around in their home communities in the state and they tried to vote on legislation remotely over a laptop or whatever it may be, that raises serious questions. We're not sure that's defensible."

It is important to note that any final action of the legislature requires a quorum, which in the case of the state house would be 63 members, or 21 members of the state senate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — COVID-19 has created government transparency concerns, but Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has said that most of the statehouse's business can be conducted online, however there is an important distinction when it comes to passing bills."Our constitution sets out very specific requirements for how votes are to be conducted by the legislature," Schmidt said. "Leaders over there had asked us for our legal opinion on how far they could go in conducting remote meetings. Basically, when you boil it all down, our advice was, you can do most things remotely, but when it comes to the act of actually casting the vote on final action on a bill, a piece of legislation, in order to be sure you remain in compliance with the constitution, you'd better do that physically and in person."The opinion issued in December does clarify that the legislature has to meet in Topeka, but doesn't confine them to any specific building, though rules within the chambers can and as of now do so, but those chambers can choose to set those rules aside or change them as that chamber sees fit."What we've told them, essentially is, it's a sliding scale," Schmidt said. "We can tell you with 100% certainty, if you put 125 House members in one room at one time and they vote, that is legally defensible," Schmidt said. "That's the way they normally do it and there's no constitutional problem. We can also tell you, if, at the other end of the spectrum, you had people sitting in their individual homes, scattered around in their home communities in the state and they tried to vote on legislation remotely over a laptop or whatever it may be, that raises serious questions. We're not sure that's defensible."It is important to note that any final action of the legislature requires a quorum, which in the case of the state house would be 63 members, or 21 members of the state senate.

AG Schmidt: Kansas Constitution clear on passing bills, legislature must meet in person, other actions can be done remotely

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 461 as of Tuesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has seventeen active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 7,226 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 452 cases in the community at large. 6,654 people have recovered thus far.

Eighteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-six total have been hospitalized. Ninety-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.25%. 35.64% of the population has been tested.

There are now 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/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 461 as of Tuesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.The Correctional Facility cluster type has seventeen active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 7,226 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 452 cases in the community at large. 6,654 people have recovered thus far.Eighteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-six total have been hospitalized. Ninety-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.25%. 35.64% of the population has been tested.There are now 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 at 461, with 452 in community as of Tuesday afternoon


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The City of Hutchinson adopted new floodplain maps that go into effect January 29, but the adoption is the end of a multiyear process.

"The update for this mapping began in the summer of 2017," said Ryan Hvitlok with the City. "There was a public open house that was held in April of 2018. FEMA opened their three month appeal period back in July of 2019 and a letter of final determination was issued by FEMA on July 29, 2020. This LFD actually started the six month clock for the city to hold a public hearing and adopt the revised maps and study and a revised ordinance."

Over 200 properties were added to the floodplain. All of those whose status was to change or who remained in the floodplain were notified, by either the city or FEMA or both, most in 2018.

"We went from about 200 properties in the floodplain to just over 400 properties in the floodplain," Hvitlok said. "Federal law does require that properties with a federally backed mortgage have to obtain flood insurance."

A regular homeowners policy does not cover damage from flooding.

"There are currently 31 flood insurance policies in the city," Hvitlok said. "We expect that number will go up with the number of properties that are going into the floodplain. Currently, staff is working with the state and FEMA to join what we call the community rating system. This is very similar to the fire insurance ISO rating, where you can do certain things and actually bring that cost of flood insurance down."

Over forty taxing entities in Kansas are already part of the Community Rating System, but neither Hutchinson or Reno County are a part as of the last published list last October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610986634844.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The City of Hutchinson adopted new floodplain maps that go into effect January 29, but the adoption is the end of a multiyear process."The update for this mapping began in the summer of 2017," said Ryan Hvitlok with the City. "There was a public open house that was held in April of 2018. FEMA opened their three month appeal period back in July of 2019 and a letter of final determination was issued by FEMA on July 29, 2020. This LFD actually started the six month clock for the city to hold a public hearing and adopt the revised maps and study and a revised ordinance."Over 200 properties were added to the floodplain. All of those whose status was to change or who remained in the floodplain were notified, by either the city or FEMA or both, most in 2018."We went from about 200 properties in the floodplain to just over 400 properties in the floodplain," Hvitlok said. "Federal law does require that properties with a federally backed mortgage have to obtain flood insurance."A regular homeowners policy does not cover damage from flooding."There are currently 31 flood insurance policies in the city," Hvitlok said. "We expect that number will go up with the number of properties that are going into the floodplain. Currently, staff is working with the state and FEMA to join what we call the community rating system. This is very similar to the fire insurance ISO rating, where you can do certain things and actually bring that cost of flood insurance down."Over forty taxing entities in Kansas are already part of the Community Rating System, but neither Hutchinson or Reno County are a part as of the last published list last October.

Floodplain maps approved for City of Hutchinson Tuesday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A special Coffee at the Cosmo virtual event is set for Thursday.

Viewers can
participate in a virtual conversation with Gerry Griffin, who served as a
flight director during the Apollo program and succeeded Chris Kraft as the
director of Johnson Space Center. Griffin will be joined by Sandy Marshall, a
leadership training expert who has helped clients from Verizon and General
Electric to Morgan Stanley understand how to bring the fluid skills of
improvisation to bear on critical moments in leadership. 

“Coffee at
the Cosmo” participants will learn how techniques such as “Yes/And” thinking
improve collaboration and outcomes and how that parallels stories Griffin will
share from MOCR. 

Access to
the show is available via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kscosmosphere/live">Facebook</a> and begins at
9 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584388004236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A special Coffee at the Cosmo virtual event is set for Thursday.Viewers can
participate in a virtual conversation with Gerry Griffin, who served as a
flight director during the Apollo program and succeeded Chris Kraft as the
director of Johnson Space Center. Griffin will be joined by Sandy Marshall, a
leadership training expert who has helped clients from Verizon and General
Electric to Morgan Stanley understand how to bring the fluid skills of
improvisation to bear on critical moments in leadership. “Coffee at
the Cosmo” participants will learn how techniques such as “Yes/And” thinking
improve collaboration and outcomes and how that parallels stories Griffin will
share from MOCR. Access to
the show is available via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kscosmosphere/live">Facebook</a> and begins at
9 a.m.

Coffee at Cosmo set for Thursday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The earnings reports kick off Thursday with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.progressiverailroading.com/union_pacific/">Union Pacific
Railroad</a>&nbsp;releasing its fourth quarter earnings before the bell.

The nation’s
largest railroad reported that third quarter net income decreased 12% to $1.4
billion, or $2.01 per diluted share, from $1.6 billion, or $2.22 per diluted
share, in the same quarter last year.

Numbers are expected
to show more of the same as lower natural gas prices and continued slow downs as a result of the pandemic eat into the railroad's car loadings.

UP operates
about 25 trains per day in Reno County and carries a total valuation in the
county of $7.2 million. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585950044294.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The earnings reports kick off Thursday with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.progressiverailroading.com/union_pacific/">Union Pacific
Railroad</a>&nbsp;releasing its fourth quarter earnings before the bell.The nation’s
largest railroad reported that third quarter net income decreased 12% to $1.4
billion, or $2.01 per diluted share, from $1.6 billion, or $2.22 per diluted
share, in the same quarter last year.Numbers are expected
to show more of the same as lower natural gas prices and continued slow downs as a result of the pandemic eat into the railroad's car loadings.UP operates
about 25 trains per day in Reno County and carries a total valuation in the
county of $7.2 million.

UP to report 4Q Thursday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Human Relations Commission will meet this afternoon.

The
Commission will hear a presentation from Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper on
Governor Kelly’s Commission on Racial Equity and Justice. He will then take
questions from the Commission.

The
Commission will also get a report from City Manager Jeff Cantrell and discuss
current investigations. 

Today’s
meeting begins at 4 p.m. at the Hutchinson city offices and will be made available
on Zoom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Human Relations Commission will meet this afternoon.The
Commission will hear a presentation from Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper on
Governor Kelly’s Commission on Racial Equity and Justice. He will then take
questions from the Commission.The
Commission will also get a report from City Manager Jeff Cantrell and discuss
current investigations. Today’s
meeting begins at 4 p.m. at the Hutchinson city offices and will be made available
on Zoom.

Local