HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 462 as of Sunday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has sixteen 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 7,155 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 452 cases in the community at large. 6,582 people have recovered thus far.

Fourteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-two 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 32.17%. 35.38% 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 462 as of Sunday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.The Correctional Facility cluster type has sixteen 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 7,155 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 452 cases in the community at large. 6,582 people have recovered thus far.Fourteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-two 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 32.17%. 35.38% 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 462, with 452 in community as of Sunday afternoon

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has extended its current health order.

The Health Department has extended the order from midnight Jan. 18 through Feb. 24. The order does not need approval from the County Commission, although it could vote to override the order. Such discussion had come up in the past, but never gained any traction.

The order keeps the limitations in place to try to keep the spread of COVID-19 down. The health order is available to view at <a href="https://www.renogov.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=239">renogov.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has extended its current health order.The Health Department has extended the order from midnight Jan. 18 through Feb. 24. The order does not need approval from the County Commission, although it could vote to override the order. Such discussion had come up in the past, but never gained any traction.The order keeps the limitations in place to try to keep the spread of COVID-19 down. The health order is available to view at <a href="https://www.renogov.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=239">renogov.org</a>.

Health order extended into February

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman. 

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: KDHE Secretary Lee Norman" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/t83ab-f7a768?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman.

🎤Forward Ever: KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Rex Buchanan, retired from the Kansas Geological Survey noted that several things all came together to allow for the gas explosions in the city of Hutchinson on January 17 and 18, 2001.

"I looked at some of those old maps of Hutch in that process," Buchanan said. "Maps of where those old drill holes were that people knew about. That didn't count the ones they didn't know about. It was...everybody will use that Swiss cheese analogy and that was really true, there were holes all over the place that allowed that gas to do what it did."

According to a paper published in 2003, the Geological Survey said on the morning of January 17, 2001, a gas explosion occurred in downtown Hutchinson, Kansas. Later that day, gas geysers began erupting 2 miles to the east along the eastern edge of Hutchinson. The following day, a gas explosion at a trailer park near the geysers in eastern Hutchinson led to the death of two people.

"Initially there was an awful lot of confusion about exactly what the cause of that was," Buchanan said. "It really took, sort of an improbable series of events and circumstances for that to come together and occur, but over time it was pretty clear what those circumstances were."

The outgassing in the city began two days after a major gas leak in a natural gas storage well, S-1, at the Yaggy gas-storage facility seven miles northwest of Hutchinson.

"When those were reopened, one of the well bores was damaged in some drilling and when that gas was under pressure, it went out through that damaged spot, found a rock unit it could move through, went out through the city of Hutch and, unfortunately, found some old well bores, mostly from salt mining or other activity days and moved up those and created the situation that you saw 20 years ago."

In response to the explosions, 57 vent wells and five observation wells were drilled in the city of Hutchinson and westward towards the Yaggy storage facility. 

Three HutchCC Fire Science instructors were on the department during the explosions. Former McPherson Fire Chief Jeff Deal was Fire Training Captain on the Hutchinson Fire Department in January of 2001.

"We were sitting in the training office at 18 East B Street, Chief Patterson and I, and we heard the explosion," Deal said. "Pictures on the wall rattled. He and I looked at each other and we said, something's going on. We both got up and jumped in our vehicles and just headed out even before the tones went off. You could see a column of smoke just northwest of us."

Mike McCandless was the driver on one of the first responding engines to the explosion.

"By the time we got around the corner to Decor, there was brick scattered throughout the street and people were running from the building, getting in their cars and leaving," McCandless said. "There was a big column of smoke and fire at the back of the building. We pulled up, set our ladder up and started throwing water on it."

It took awhile before firefighters knew that the gas was not coming from a gas line.

"We got a hold of the utilities company and said shut all the gas off," Deal said. "You could tell by the back of the building that this was a pressure fed fire. We said, we've broken a gas line, shut all the gas down. I remember them shutting all the gas down and one of my superiors yelled at me and said, go get with those guys. They're telling me the gas is shut off. How come this thing isn't getting any smaller? I went and personally met with a couple of the utility guys in the alley behind the Decor building and said, what is going on? They said, we've shut everything off in like a two block area and I said, shut it off wider then, because it ain't working. After they went out another level, we realized. This isn't local gas. We don't have any control over whatever this is."

Because of the lack of other fire activity in the city at the time, at least initially, Hutchinson firefighters didn't ask for a lot of outside help.

"I was on a reserve apparatus," said Jason Holland, who had actually worked the night before, but came back in to help. "We have reserve engines. I stayed at the fire station. We shut off all medical responses and then we protected the rest of the city with four firefighters and one fire truck while everyone else was down at the explosion."

As the fire stretched into its second day, the department called on help from outside.

"I don't know who made the call, but we actually brought in HCC Fire Science students who came and manned some of our stationary monitors, our stationary hand lines that don't move, spraying water," Deal said. "We just had them come sit on the hand lines so that we could get some of our guys out of the cold and get them to rehab."

Part of the reason the second explosion happened at the trailer home of John and Mary Hahn in the Big Chief Mobile Home Park, is because the gas that was coming up out of the ground was not odorized.

"Those people couldn't smell it at all," McCandless said. "They didn't know it was there until the trailer blew up."

It is presumed that an attempt to cook is what ignited the gas.

"They skirt these trailers," Deal said. "They put this skirting around the trailers in order to insulate them and that's what trapped the gas. If it had been an unskirted trailer, it may have just dissipated."

The Hahns both died from their injuries. Getting rid of the gas so similar incidents couldn't happen changed the landscape of the city for months.

"If you flew over Hutchinson, you would see us look like the top of a birthday cake," Holland said. "We had flares, six, eight, ten flares."

Those flares were important because you can't smell the gas, and you could only sometimes see where it was seeping.

"The way you fix this problem is you burn it off," Deal said. "Consume it. Any place that they found gas that was seeping up, like they said, they would drill a hole, they would actually concentrate that gas and then they would put a flare on it. If you go by the refinery in McPherson, you will see flares at the top of stacks, they're doing the same thing."

An archived article from April of that year from the Oil and Gas Journal noted nine flares still active at the writing of that piece.

"It was scary," Holland said. "It really was a scary situation, because you never knew. You have to look back in history in Hutchinson. When they did the salt mining, they would go and put in brine wells. You would go and you would have all these abandoned pipes stuck in the ground, three, four hundred, five hundred feet deep. It's just an open hole for that gas to find, like a chimney and, boom, whatever is sitting on top of it, if it's an ignition source, look out."

According to a report from the Kansas Gas Service, after the gas flow from the vent wells subsided, the KGS coordinated two NASA flights over Hutchinson and Reno County to make sure no gas leaks had gone undetected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610803169745.jpeg" alt="January 2001 Photo from Hutchinson Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>January 2001 Photo from Hutchinson Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Rex Buchanan, retired from the Kansas Geological Survey noted that several things all came together to allow for the gas explosions in the city of Hutchinson on January 17 and 18, 2001."I looked at some of those old maps of Hutch in that process," Buchanan said. "Maps of where those old drill holes were that people knew about. That didn't count the ones they didn't know about. It was...everybody will use that Swiss cheese analogy and that was really true, there were holes all over the place that allowed that gas to do what it did."According to a paper published in 2003, the Geological Survey said on the morning of January 17, 2001, a gas explosion occurred in downtown Hutchinson, Kansas. Later that day, gas geysers began erupting 2 miles to the east along the eastern edge of Hutchinson. The following day, a gas explosion at a trailer park near the geysers in eastern Hutchinson led to the death of two people."Initially there was an awful lot of confusion about exactly what the cause of that was," Buchanan said. "It really took, sort of an improbable series of events and circumstances for that to come together and occur, but over time it was pretty clear what those circumstances were."The outgassing in the city began two days after a major gas leak in a natural gas storage well, S-1, at the Yaggy gas-storage facility seven miles northwest of Hutchinson."When those were reopened, one of the well bores was damaged in some drilling and when that gas was under pressure, it went out through that damaged spot, found a rock unit it could move through, went out through the city of Hutch and, unfortunately, found some old well bores, mostly from salt mining or other activity days and moved up those and created the situation that you saw 20 years ago."In response to the explosions, 57 vent wells and five observation wells were drilled in the city of Hutchinson and westward towards the Yaggy storage facility. Three HutchCC Fire Science instructors were on the department during the explosions. Former McPherson Fire Chief Jeff Deal was Fire Training Captain on the Hutchinson Fire Department in January of 2001.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610803143730.jpeg" alt="Photo from Kansas Geological Survey Powerpoint Presentation" />
 <figcaption>Photo from Kansas Geological Survey Powerpoint Presentation</figcaption>
 </figure>"We were sitting in the training office at 18 East B Street, Chief Patterson and I, and we heard the explosion," Deal said. "Pictures on the wall rattled. He and I looked at each other and we said, something's going on. We both got up and jumped in our vehicles and just headed out even before the tones went off. You could see a column of smoke just northwest of us."Mike McCandless was the driver on one of the first responding engines to the explosion."By the time we got around the corner to Decor, there was brick scattered throughout the street and people were running from the building, getting in their cars and leaving," McCandless said. "There was a big column of smoke and fire at the back of the building. We pulled up, set our ladder up and started throwing water on it."It took awhile before firefighters knew that the gas was not coming from a gas line."We got a hold of the utilities company and said shut all the gas off," Deal said. "You could tell by the back of the building that this was a pressure fed fire. We said, we've broken a gas line, shut all the gas down. I remember them shutting all the gas down and one of my superiors yelled at me and said, go get with those guys. They're telling me the gas is shut off. How come this thing isn't getting any smaller? I went and personally met with a couple of the utility guys in the alley behind the Decor building and said, what is going on? They said, we've shut everything off in like a two block area and I said, shut it off wider then, because it ain't working. After they went out another level, we realized. This isn't local gas. We don't have any control over whatever this is."Because of the lack of other fire activity in the city at the time, at least initially, Hutchinson firefighters didn't ask for a lot of outside help."I was on a reserve apparatus," said Jason Holland, who had actually worked the night before, but came back in to help. "We have reserve engines. I stayed at the fire station. We shut off all medical responses and then we protected the rest of the city with four firefighters and one fire truck while everyone else was down at the explosion."As the fire stretched into its second day, the department called on help from outside."I don't know who made the call, but we actually brought in HCC Fire Science students who came and manned some of our stationary monitors, our stationary hand lines that don't move, spraying water," Deal said. "We just had them come sit on the hand lines so that we could get some of our guys out of the cold and get them to rehab."Part of the reason the second explosion happened at the trailer home of John and Mary Hahn in the Big Chief Mobile Home Park, is because the gas that was coming up out of the ground was not odorized."Those people couldn't smell it at all," McCandless said. "They didn't know it was there until the trailer blew up."It is presumed that an attempt to cook is what ignited the gas."They skirt these trailers," Deal said. "They put this skirting around the trailers in order to insulate them and that's what trapped the gas. If it had been an unskirted trailer, it may have just dissipated."The Hahns both died from their injuries. Getting rid of the gas so similar incidents couldn't happen changed the landscape of the city for months.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610803186041.jpeg" alt="Vent Well photo Kansas Geological Survey" />
 <figcaption>Vent Well photo Kansas Geological Survey</figcaption>
 </figure>"If you flew over Hutchinson, you would see us look like the top of a birthday cake," Holland said. "We had flares, six, eight, ten flares."Those flares were important because you can't smell the gas, and you could only sometimes see where it was seeping."The way you fix this problem is you burn it off," Deal said. "Consume it. Any place that they found gas that was seeping up, like they said, they would drill a hole, they would actually concentrate that gas and then they would put a flare on it. If you go by the refinery in McPherson, you will see flares at the top of stacks, they're doing the same thing."An archived article from April of that year from the Oil and Gas Journal noted nine flares still active at the writing of that piece."It was scary," Holland said. "It really was a scary situation, because you never knew. You have to look back in history in Hutchinson. When they did the salt mining, they would go and put in brine wells. You would go and you would have all these abandoned pipes stuck in the ground, three, four hundred, five hundred feet deep. It's just an open hole for that gas to find, like a chimney and, boom, whatever is sitting on top of it, if it's an ignition source, look out."According to a report from the Kansas Gas Service, after the gas flow from the vent wells subsided, the KGS coordinated two NASA flights over Hutchinson and Reno County to make sure no gas leaks had gone undetected.

Twenty years since gas explosions, reflections on a scary time in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The annual Martin Luther King Jr. day event at Hutchinson Community College has gone online this year.

"Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community" will go live at 3 p.m. Sunday <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjOS-4DNkMM">on the college's Youtube channel</a>.

Video of the celebration will remain public following the Sunday premiere.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610729468483.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The annual Martin Luther King Jr. day event at Hutchinson Community College has gone online this year."Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community" will go live at 3 p.m. Sunday <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjOS-4DNkMM">on the college's Youtube channel</a>. Video of the celebration will remain public following the Sunday premiere.

MLK day event at HutchCC online in 2021

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will consider a request for the last bit of CDBG-CV grant funds that are still available.

Reno County was notified in May 2020 that the Kansas Department of Commerce was opening the application process for cities and counties to apply for CDBG-CV funding to pass on to qualifying small businesses. The Kansas Department of Commerce awarded $132,000 to Reno County to award $120,000 to small businesses who qualify and pay $12,000 to the grant administrator. The county handed out more than $108,000 to seven businesses, leaving about $11,000 in the pot.&nbsp;

Now an applicant has come forward asking for those remaining funds. Special K9 Dog training is one of two businesses that applied for the funding. However, the other business did not qualify since it is within the city limits of Hutchinson. If approved, the dog training business would get $11,064.

&nbsp;The matter comes up for action during Tuesday’s County Commission meeting at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610743915068.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will consider a request for the last bit of CDBG-CV grant funds that are still available.Reno County was notified in May 2020 that the Kansas Department of Commerce was opening the application process for cities and counties to apply for CDBG-CV funding to pass on to qualifying small businesses. The Kansas Department of Commerce awarded $132,000 to Reno County to award $120,000 to small businesses who qualify and pay $12,000 to the grant administrator. The county handed out more than $108,000 to seven businesses, leaving about $11,000 in the pot.&nbsp;Now an applicant has come forward asking for those remaining funds. Special K9 Dog training is one of two businesses that applied for the funding. However, the other business did not qualify since it is within the city limits of Hutchinson. If approved, the dog training business would get $11,064.&nbsp;The matter comes up for action during Tuesday’s County Commission meeting at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Commission to consider handing out last of CDBG-CV funds for area business

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Formal charges have been filed in a drug distribution case in Reno County.

Steven Releford is charged with possession of meth with intent to distribute, possession of unlawful drug proceeds, two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and one count of possession of marijuana.&nbsp;

Releford was arrested on Jan. 11. He was before Judge Daniel Gilligan for the reading of charges on Friday.&nbsp;

Releford remains jailed on a bond of $18,500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604198717162.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Formal charges have been filed in a drug distribution case in Reno County.Steven Releford is charged with possession of meth with intent to distribute, possession of unlawful drug proceeds, two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and one count of possession of marijuana.&nbsp;Releford was arrested on Jan. 11. He was before Judge Daniel Gilligan for the reading of charges on Friday.&nbsp;Releford remains jailed on a bond of $18,500.

Formal charges brought in drug distribution case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested on charges he physically abused a child under the age of 18.

Dillon Dixon was arrested Thursday on that charge along with suspicion of drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia, trafficking in contraband, and a violation of his parole from the state of Missouri. His bond has been set at $28,500.

Dixon is accused of beating a child back in September of 2020. A warrant was issued for his arrest following an investigation by law enforcement. The possible drug counts came during his arrest.

His next court appearance is tentatively set for Feb. 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610747909188.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested on charges he physically abused a child under the age of 18.Dillon Dixon was arrested Thursday on that charge along with suspicion of drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia, trafficking in contraband, and a violation of his parole from the state of Missouri. His bond has been set at $28,500.Dixon is accused of beating a child back in September of 2020. A warrant was issued for his arrest following an investigation by law enforcement. The possible drug counts came during his arrest.His next court appearance is tentatively set for Feb. 22.

Hutchinson man arrested in child abuse case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It looks like the former site of Prairie Hills Nursery is occupied again. Travis and Kristin Mullen have decided to expand their landscaping and irrigation business, and have purchased the nursery.&nbsp;

The couple began the process of purchasing Prairie Hills Nursery and reached out for support and guidance through StartUp Hutch. They were able to utilize a SCORE business mentor to help guide them through the acquisition. They took possession of the property Dec. 30.

They are also keeping the name of the longtime nursery. “We wanted to keep the legacy alive,” Travis Mullen said. “Tom’s (Heintzman) done such a great job of building the legacy of that place and we want to just build upon it.”

The Mullens were also able to secure gap financing using StartUp Hutch’s E-Community Funds and access resources available to entrepreneurs at the state level through Network Kansas. First National Bank of Hutchinson was also a key partner in making the purchase possible.

The Mullens wanted to expand on the landscaping and irrigation business they purchased from their parents three years ago. That business will move from its current location on 56th Avenue to the 30th and Apple Lane location. The business will look pretty much the same, but will have some additional items and a little different look.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610747669128.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — It looks like the former site of Prairie Hills Nursery is occupied again. Travis and Kristin Mullen have decided to expand their landscaping and irrigation business, and have purchased the nursery.&nbsp;The couple began the process of purchasing Prairie Hills Nursery and reached out for support and guidance through StartUp Hutch. They were able to utilize a SCORE business mentor to help guide them through the acquisition. They took possession of the property Dec. 30.They are also keeping the name of the longtime nursery. “We wanted to keep the legacy alive,” Travis Mullen said. “Tom’s (Heintzman) done such a great job of building the legacy of that place and we want to just build upon it.”The Mullens were also able to secure gap financing using StartUp Hutch’s E-Community Funds and access resources available to entrepreneurs at the state level through Network Kansas. First National Bank of Hutchinson was also a key partner in making the purchase possible.The Mullens wanted to expand on the landscaping and irrigation business they purchased from their parents three years ago. That business will move from its current location on 56th Avenue to the 30th and Apple Lane location. The business will look pretty much the same, but will have some additional items and a little different look.

Hutchinson couple purchases Prairie Hills Nursery

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 484 as of Friday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has eleven 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 7,125 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 476 cases in the community at large. 6,530 people have recovered thus far.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.17%. 35.23% 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 484 as of Friday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.The Correctional Facility cluster type has eleven 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 7,125 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 476 cases in the community at large. 6,530 people have recovered thus far.Fourteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-two 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 32.17%. 35.23% 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 484, with 476 in community as of Friday afternoon, deaths remain at 111


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;It's important for the public to know that getting the COVID-19 vaccine, when it is available to you, is about saving your life, not necessarily getting back to normal right away.

"We don't have good data yet on if this vaccine stops transmission," said Dr. Scott Pauly with the Hutchinson Clinic. "That's going to be a real kind of gut punch for a lot of people. The intent of the vaccine at this point is to decrease people's severity of symptoms, hopefully avoiding hospitalization and death."

Following logically, that means precautions like hand hygiene and mask wearing are here to stay for a while longer.

"I could become infected with the virus, have minimal to no symptoms, but act as a carrier of sorts to seed the virus to those in my home, my loved ones, etc. At this time, the recommendations for those who are immunized is the same for those who are unimmunized."

That doesn't mean the science won't eventually show protection from spread, but the vaccine hasn't been around long enough to know for sure.

"This vaccine at this point does not give you a 'get out of quarantine free' card," Pauly said. "I would love to say we should do that, but this is what evidence based medicine looks like. We don't make assumptions. We base our recommendations on what we know. Until we know this vaccine would stop or inhibit a person's ability to spread it to those around them, we're going to hold."

That means if it wasn't safe to see grandma and grandpa before the vaccine, we don't know yet if it will be after as long as there is still active virus around.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610738406361.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;It's important for the public to know that getting the COVID-19 vaccine, when it is available to you, is about saving your life, not necessarily getting back to normal right away."We don't have good data yet on if this vaccine stops transmission," said Dr. Scott Pauly with the Hutchinson Clinic. "That's going to be a real kind of gut punch for a lot of people. The intent of the vaccine at this point is to decrease people's severity of symptoms, hopefully avoiding hospitalization and death."Following logically, that means precautions like hand hygiene and mask wearing are here to stay for a while longer."I could become infected with the virus, have minimal to no symptoms, but act as a carrier of sorts to seed the virus to those in my home, my loved ones, etc. At this time, the recommendations for those who are immunized is the same for those who are unimmunized."That doesn't mean the science won't eventually show protection from spread, but the vaccine hasn't been around long enough to know for sure."This vaccine at this point does not give you a 'get out of quarantine free' card," Pauly said. "I would love to say we should do that, but this is what evidence based medicine looks like. We don't make assumptions. We base our recommendations on what we know. Until we know this vaccine would stop or inhibit a person's ability to spread it to those around them, we're going to hold."That means if it wasn't safe to see grandma and grandpa before the vaccine, we don't know yet if it will be after as long as there is still active virus around.

Pauly: Vaccine no 'get out of quarantine free' card

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court reversed the
conviction of a Hutchinson man who was found guilty on one of three aggravated
arson charges.

Chase Coble was charged with three identically worded
aggravated arson counts following a fire in his Hutchinson apartment. At trial, the State presented evidence intending to establish three separate incidents
occurred. The jury acquitted Coble on all but one count. In a unanimous opinion, the Supreme Court held that due process concerns required it to reverse the
sole conviction. 

The court said the identically worded charges caused
confusion for the jury about what incident to attach to each charge. In
addition, appellate review of the conviction was hampered since it was also
impossible for the Supreme Court to determine what incident the jury believed
constituted aggravated arson. 

District Attorney Tom Stanton said he will now look over the
Supreme Court opinion and then decide what avenue his office can take. If
Stanton feels no double jeopardy issue exists, then he could try Coble on the
single count again. If not, then the whole case could be dismissed.

Coble was arrested after Hutchinson firefighters reported to
a fire alarm at the apartment complex. Firefighters found the sprinkler system
was shut off, and soot and charring was present in three areas. They also found chemicals,
beakers, test tubes, and other laboratory equipment. Coble was found outside
without a shirt and with extensive burns. Coble said the fire started after an
experiment went wrong.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602084193933.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court reversed the
conviction of a Hutchinson man who was found guilty on one of three aggravated
arson charges.Chase Coble was charged with three identically worded
aggravated arson counts following a fire in his Hutchinson apartment. At trial, the State presented evidence intending to establish three separate incidents
occurred. The jury acquitted Coble on all but one count. In a unanimous opinion, the Supreme Court held that due process concerns required it to reverse the
sole conviction. The court said the identically worded charges caused
confusion for the jury about what incident to attach to each charge. In
addition, appellate review of the conviction was hampered since it was also
impossible for the Supreme Court to determine what incident the jury believed
constituted aggravated arson. District Attorney Tom Stanton said he will now look over the
Supreme Court opinion and then decide what avenue his office can take. If
Stanton feels no double jeopardy issue exists, then he could try Coble on the
single count again. If not, then the whole case could be dismissed.Coble was arrested after Hutchinson firefighters reported to
a fire alarm at the apartment complex. Firefighters found the sprinkler system
was shut off, and soot and charring was present in three areas. They also found chemicals,
beakers, test tubes, and other laboratory equipment. Coble was found outside
without a shirt and with extensive burns. Coble said the fire started after an
experiment went wrong.&nbsp;

Kansas Supreme Court reverses conviction in arson case

&nbsp;HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Newton man was bound over for
trial in connection with a drug smuggling case while he was an employee at the
Hutchinson Correctional Facility.

Zachary Wood also saw two additional charges filed against
him in an amended complaint. Wood faces single counts of possession of marijuana
with intent to sell and possession of codeine with intent to sell along with the original charges which include three counts of conspiracy, three counts of
using a communication device to distribute drugs, one count of drug
distribution and one count of trafficking contraband into a correctional
facility. 

Wood is accused of using three women to help smuggle K2
into the prison over a period of two months.

The three women arrested in the case, Ester Davis, Denisha
Starns and Stephanie Thindiu all waived their right to a preliminary hearing
and were bound over for trial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600357864536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Newton man was bound over for
trial in connection with a drug smuggling case while he was an employee at the
Hutchinson Correctional Facility.Zachary Wood also saw two additional charges filed against
him in an amended complaint. Wood faces single counts of possession of marijuana
with intent to sell and possession of codeine with intent to sell along with the original charges which include three counts of conspiracy, three counts of
using a communication device to distribute drugs, one count of drug
distribution and one count of trafficking contraband into a correctional
facility. Wood is accused of using three women to help smuggle K2
into the prison over a period of two months.The three women arrested in the case, Ester Davis, Denisha
Starns and Stephanie Thindiu all waived their right to a preliminary hearing
and were bound over for trial.

Four bound over for trial in drug smuggling case


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Debra Teufel President &amp; CEO at Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce noted that 2020 wasn't as bad economically as it could have been in some areas in spite of the pandemic.

"Everyone obviously had to adjust quickly to cancellation of events, the stay at home orders and all the ways that impacted our hospitality industry and our businesses," Teufel said. "Looking at the numbers, though, and reflecting on 2020, it would seem like our economy fared fairly well considering everything that was thrown at it."

Trying to fill existing buildings in the area has been priority one for the Chamber since Teufel's arrival and a lot of that happened in 2020.

"We announced that Superior Boiler was moving an entire line from Richmond, Virginia back to Hutch," Teufel said. "Shortly after that announcement, J and J Drainage announced that they would be building a great new expansion right in the core of the community. A company that's been here for decades, as well. We've been marketing vacant buildings, like the former Eaton facility. It's been one of those products that was waiting for just the right user. To get that announcement in October that KNS was acquiring it and putting it back online was a great announcement. Scott Miller is one of their management team and he's been hiring people to fill that facility. They're up to, I think, 15 employees now. You'll see lots of truck activity."

In addition, American Packaging announced an upcoming expansion in recent weeks that gives the economy some momentum headed into 2021.

"Some of our peer communities in the state have seen some new investment announcements," Teufel said. "I think our turn is coming for those."

Teufel cited the work of the state Department of Commerce in being much more aggressive in the site selection process in recent years. It's also important to note that Commerce Secretary David Toland is now also the state's lieutenant governor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580397097469.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Debra Teufel President &amp; CEO at Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce noted that 2020 wasn't as bad economically as it could have been in some areas in spite of the pandemic."Everyone obviously had to adjust quickly to cancellation of events, the stay at home orders and all the ways that impacted our hospitality industry and our businesses," Teufel said. "Looking at the numbers, though, and reflecting on 2020, it would seem like our economy fared fairly well considering everything that was thrown at it."Trying to fill existing buildings in the area has been priority one for the Chamber since Teufel's arrival and a lot of that happened in 2020."We announced that Superior Boiler was moving an entire line from Richmond, Virginia back to Hutch," Teufel said. "Shortly after that announcement, J and J Drainage announced that they would be building a great new expansion right in the core of the community. A company that's been here for decades, as well. We've been marketing vacant buildings, like the former Eaton facility. It's been one of those products that was waiting for just the right user. To get that announcement in October that KNS was acquiring it and putting it back online was a great announcement. Scott Miller is one of their management team and he's been hiring people to fill that facility. They're up to, I think, 15 employees now. You'll see lots of truck activity."In addition, American Packaging announced an upcoming expansion in recent weeks that gives the economy some momentum headed into 2021."Some of our peer communities in the state have seen some new investment announcements," Teufel said. "I think our turn is coming for those."Teufel cited the work of the state Department of Commerce in being much more aggressive in the site selection process in recent years. It's also important to note that Commerce Secretary David Toland is now also the state's lieutenant governor.

Teufel: Bright spots in Hutchinson economy in 2020

Hutchinson, Kan. – The January meeting of the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees began with the election of officers for the coming year. David Marshall was elected chairperson with Rod Calhoun assuming the role of vice chair.

Dave Mullins, Director of Business and Industry, reported that the College has been selected as a finalist in the Rethink Adult Ed Challenge. The Challenge invites adult education providers to design innovative and high-quality pre-apprenticeship programs — in any industry, anywhere in the United States. Winners will be announced summer 2021.

The Board received an update on the College’s strategic planning process, set its meeting dates for 2021 and also approved residence hall rates for the 2021-22 academic year.

The next meeting of the board will be Thursday, February 11 at 7:00 p.m. in the Shears Technology Center Justice Theater. The public is invited to attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588955468734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson, Kan. – The January meeting of the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees began with the election of officers for the coming year. David Marshall was elected chairperson with Rod Calhoun assuming the role of vice chair.Dave Mullins, Director of Business and Industry, reported that the College has been selected as a finalist in the Rethink Adult Ed Challenge. The Challenge invites adult education providers to design innovative and high-quality pre-apprenticeship programs — in any industry, anywhere in the United States. Winners will be announced summer 2021.The Board received an update on the College’s strategic planning process, set its meeting dates for 2021 and also approved residence hall rates for the 2021-22 academic year.The next meeting of the board will be Thursday, February 11 at 7:00 p.m. in the Shears Technology Center Justice Theater. The public is invited to attend.

Board Elects New Leadership; HutchCC Finalist for National Award

The high wind is not likely to subside until this evening. A High Wind Warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. this evening.

Northwest winds from 30 to 45 mph sustained continue to be present, with gusts to 60 mph possible.

Unsecured objects will be blown around. Tree limbs will be blown down, and a few power outages may result.

Use caution if driving a high-profile vehicle.

People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610708720767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The high wind is not likely to subside until this evening. A High Wind Warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. this evening.Northwest winds from 30 to 45 mph sustained continue to be present, with gusts to 60 mph possible.Unsecured objects will be blown around. Tree limbs will be blown down, and a few power outages may result.Use caution if driving a high-profile vehicle.People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.

High wind still a threat Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— For the past three years the city of Hutchinson has been entertaining building a bicycling boulevard along Washington Street. The initial idea came when there was a push for more such cycling avenues. Since then, a new section of bike trail has been installed inside the state fairgrounds and along 23rd Avenue east of Plum.&nbsp;

It also included the Washington Street project which has never gained much traction until now. The Hutchinson City Council will be asked to approve a supplemental engineering agreement with ESP USA Inc. for an engineering study of the project. The boulevard would run from 17th and Washington north to 27th. It would allow cyclists from that area to go east and intercept the state fair trail after crossing Main Street.

The original contract included a budget to complete concept and final design of the bicycle boulevard improvements. However, due to a series of unexpected staff changes at the City of Hutchinson, the project has resulted in budget overruns due to work outside of the original contract scope, or changes that have been made that will require rework to complete the project. So the supplemental contract is needed.

The project will include repairs to the storm sewer that is showing signs of failure between 18th and 19th Avenue and new curb and gutter along with ADA ramps and a new street surface where needed.&nbsp; Total cost of the engineering study is $17,640. The matter comes up for action during Tuesday's City Council meeting set for 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson City offices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595345909773.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— For the past three years the city of Hutchinson has been entertaining building a bicycling boulevard along Washington Street. The initial idea came when there was a push for more such cycling avenues. Since then, a new section of bike trail has been installed inside the state fairgrounds and along 23rd Avenue east of Plum.&nbsp;It also included the Washington Street project which has never gained much traction until now. The Hutchinson City Council will be asked to approve a supplemental engineering agreement with ESP USA Inc. for an engineering study of the project. The boulevard would run from 17th and Washington north to 27th. It would allow cyclists from that area to go east and intercept the state fair trail after crossing Main Street.The original contract included a budget to complete concept and final design of the bicycle boulevard improvements. However, due to a series of unexpected staff changes at the City of Hutchinson, the project has resulted in budget overruns due to work outside of the original contract scope, or changes that have been made that will require rework to complete the project. So the supplemental contract is needed.The project will include repairs to the storm sewer that is showing signs of failure between 18th and 19th Avenue and new curb and gutter along with ADA ramps and a new street surface where needed.&nbsp; Total cost of the engineering study is $17,640. The matter comes up for action during Tuesday's City Council meeting set for 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson City offices.

Bike Blvd. to be discussed Tuesday by City Council

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. — The number of positive cases of COVID continues to hang just below the 500 mark. And although the area has seen a small increase in cases since Christmas the increase is not as large as the one that occurred during the Thanksgiving holiday.&nbsp;

As of Thursday evening, the positive case count in the county is 491 with 485 active in the community. That compares with a low since Thanksgiving of 442 on January 4th.&nbsp;

On Thanksgiving day, the number of positive cases in the county was 1,066 which quickly jumped to 1,513 by November 29. The number of cases then fell by more than 1,100 by January 4th.

The death toll from the pandemic stands at 111, with 7,100 positive cases and 6,498 recoveries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608305721933.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of positive cases of COVID continues to hang just below the 500 mark. And although the area has seen a small increase in cases since Christmas the increase is not as large as the one that occurred during the Thanksgiving holiday.&nbsp;As of Thursday evening, the positive case count in the county is 491 with 485 active in the community. That compares with a low since Thanksgiving of 442 on January 4th.&nbsp;On Thanksgiving day, the number of positive cases in the county was 1,066 which quickly jumped to 1,513 by November 29. The number of cases then fell by more than 1,100 by January 4th.The death toll from the pandemic stands at 111, with 7,100 positive cases and 6,498 recoveries.

Positive COVID cases steady as of Thursday evening

Release from Hutchinson Fire Department


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The area is currently under a red flag warning, prompting the Hutchinson Fire Department to respond with all units at 82nd and Plum at 11:54 a.m. Thursday. A request for aid was made to the Buhler Fire Department. Crews found a fire about an acre in size on the east and west side of Plum Street north of 82nd that was being pushed by 30-plus mph northwest winds. The fire was quickly contained in the harsh conditions as units spent 45 minutes overhauling the area before being released. 

Fire investigators ruled the cause accidental. A tire, which included the wheel and brake drum assembly still attached, were found at the origin of the fire. It appears it may have come off a passing trailer and sparked the fire. 

The Hutchinson Fire Department was assisted by the Reno County Sheriff’s Department, Buhler Fire Department, Hutchinson-Reno County Communications, Evergy and Ark Valley.

Very windy conditions are predicted through Friday evening, prompting Red Flag Warnings for today and tomorrow. Use extreme caution outside with any type of heat-producing object, as these fires will grow rapidly. If you have had a recent control burn, please take time to ensure the fire is completely extinguished. Fire conditions will continue to be very high even in the overnight hours tonight. 

Release from Hutchinson Fire Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610656764291.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The area is currently under a red flag warning, prompting the Hutchinson Fire Department to respond with all units at 82nd and Plum at 11:54 a.m. Thursday. A request for aid was made to the Buhler Fire Department. Crews found a fire about an acre in size on the east and west side of Plum Street north of 82nd that was being pushed by 30-plus mph northwest winds. The fire was quickly contained in the harsh conditions as units spent 45 minutes overhauling the area before being released. Fire investigators ruled the cause accidental. A tire, which included the wheel and brake drum assembly still attached, were found at the origin of the fire. It appears it may have come off a passing trailer and sparked the fire. The Hutchinson Fire Department was assisted by the Reno County Sheriff’s Department, Buhler Fire Department, Hutchinson-Reno County Communications, Evergy and Ark Valley.Very windy conditions are predicted through Friday evening, prompting Red Flag Warnings for today and tomorrow. Use extreme caution outside with any type of heat-producing object, as these fires will grow rapidly. If you have had a recent control burn, please take time to ensure the fire is completely extinguished. Fire conditions will continue to be very high even in the overnight hours tonight.

Fire crews control blaze north of Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson firefighters caught a fire in an unoccupied house before it got too far out of control Thursday morning.

At 9:12 a.m., firefighters were called out after a crew noticed smoke and started an investigation. The unit found the house at 108 South Reformatory had fire on a wood deck, entryway and wood siding.

The fire was beginning to increase in size and spread upward on the outside of the home. Crews were able to contain the fire to the exterior wall with no extension to the interior of the home. The residence suffered moderate damage to the exterior wall and roof. 

The cause of the fire was determined to be a discarded cigarette in combination with a high wind event.  The home was not occupied at the time of the fire.  

No injuries were reported throughout the incident. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610639654976.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson firefighters caught a fire in an unoccupied house before it got too far out of control Thursday morning.At 9:12 a.m., firefighters were called out after a crew noticed smoke and started an investigation. The unit found the house at 108 South Reformatory had fire on a wood deck, entryway and wood siding.The fire was beginning to increase in size and spread upward on the outside of the home. Crews were able to contain the fire to the exterior wall with no extension to the interior of the home. The residence suffered moderate damage to the exterior wall and roof. The cause of the fire was determined to be a discarded cigarette in combination with a high wind event. The home was not occupied at the time of the fire. No injuries were reported throughout the incident.

Hutchinson firefighters observant Thursday morning, save small house


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Community Foundation requests proposals for 2021 Changemakers at Work Grants.

Formerly known as Make it Greater Grants, Changemakers at Work Grants are open to Reno County residents and organizations who have great ideas for bringing community members together on projects that spark community spirit and pride, increase social capital, and build on communities' assets and unique qualities through placemaking. Awards range from $250 to $2,500.

Proposals must come from 501(c)(3) organizations that serve Reno County. Individuals or groups that do not have a 501(c)(3) designation must obtain a nonprofit fiscal sponsor.

To learn more about grant requirements and to download application materials, visit <a href="http://bit.ly/2LKit5f">bit.ly/2LKit5f</a>. To read about the kinds of projects previously funded through Changemakers at Work Grants, visit <a href="http://bit.ly/3qkO8JE">bit.ly/3qkO8JE</a>.

Application deadline is noon Feb. 16. Grants will be awarded in March.

Hutchinson Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to inspire philanthropy, collaboration and innovative leadership to strengthen Reno County communities. Since 1989, the foundation has made grants of more than $70 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610645404113.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Community Foundation requests proposals for 2021 Changemakers at Work Grants.Formerly known as Make it Greater Grants, Changemakers at Work Grants are open to Reno County residents and organizations who have great ideas for bringing community members together on projects that spark community spirit and pride, increase social capital, and build on communities' assets and unique qualities through placemaking. Awards range from $250 to $2,500.Proposals must come from 501(c)(3) organizations that serve Reno County. Individuals or groups that do not have a 501(c)(3) designation must obtain a nonprofit fiscal sponsor.To learn more about grant requirements and to download application materials, visit <a href="http://bit.ly/2LKit5f">bit.ly/2LKit5f</a>. To read about the kinds of projects previously funded through Changemakers at Work Grants, visit <a href="http://bit.ly/3qkO8JE">bit.ly/3qkO8JE</a>.Application deadline is noon Feb. 16. Grants will be awarded in March.Hutchinson Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to inspire philanthropy, collaboration and innovative leadership to strengthen Reno County communities. Since 1989, the foundation has made grants of more than $70 million.

Hutchinson Community Foundation announces opening of grant cycle

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— Rcat announced Wednesday that they are
modifying their hours of service again due to the continued impact from
COVID-19.

Starting Tuesday, January 19, Rcat fixed routes will run
from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. on
Saturday.&nbsp; Passengers displaced from their regular route pickup time may
call 620-694-2913 for assistance.

Paratransit will operate from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday
through Friday, and 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday.&nbsp;

County On- Demand will operate from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday
through Friday. All vehicles will observe social distancing for seating
passengers and perform additional disinfection and cleaning practices.

Passengers are asked to observe good hygiene with frequent
handwashing and responsible respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing
into their elbow bend and limiting physical contact with drivers and other
passengers.

Rcat is asking that you use the service for essential trips
only such as medical appointments, groceries, and personal business.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602530692777.jpeg" alt="Rcat Logo" />
 <figcaption>Rcat Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— Rcat announced Wednesday that they are
modifying their hours of service again due to the continued impact from
COVID-19.Starting Tuesday, January 19, Rcat fixed routes will run
from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. on
Saturday.&nbsp; Passengers displaced from their regular route pickup time may
call 620-694-2913 for assistance.Paratransit will operate from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday
through Friday, and 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday.&nbsp;County On- Demand will operate from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday
through Friday. All vehicles will observe social distancing for seating
passengers and perform additional disinfection and cleaning practices.Passengers are asked to observe good hygiene with frequent
handwashing and responsible respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing
into their elbow bend and limiting physical contact with drivers and other
passengers.Rcat is asking that you use the service for essential trips
only such as medical appointments, groceries, and personal business.

R-Cat shortens schedule due to pandemic


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With a proposed Kansas constitutional amendment on abortion to be considered this legislative session that could potentially go on the ballot during the 2022 primary, a local election official says that though having a question meant for everyone on a primary ballot isn't common, it's not unprecedented in Reno County, as some tax questions have fallen that way.

"We did have that in August of 2006," said Reno County Deputy Election Officer Jenna Fager. "It was a Reno County sales tax question, so it wasn't a statewide thing. It was just in Reno County."

Fager explained that even if you are unaffiliated, you would still get to vote.

"Unaffiliated that didn't affiliate at the time that they went to vote, or a Libertarian, they would have their own ballot with no candidates on it, just the question," Fager said.

Primaries traditionally have lower turnout than general elections and in Kansas, Republican primaries in particular tend to lean more conservative, especially in non-presidential election years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602000218653.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
With a proposed Kansas constitutional amendment on abortion to be considered this legislative session that could potentially go on the ballot during the 2022 primary, a local election official says that though having a question meant for everyone on a primary ballot isn't common, it's not unprecedented in Reno County, as some tax questions have fallen that way."We did have that in August of 2006," said Reno County Deputy Election Officer Jenna Fager. "It was a Reno County sales tax question, so it wasn't a statewide thing. It was just in Reno County."Fager explained that even if you are unaffiliated, you would still get to vote."Unaffiliated that didn't affiliate at the time that they went to vote, or a Libertarian, they would have their own ballot with no candidates on it, just the question," Fager said.Primaries traditionally have lower turnout than general elections and in Kansas, Republican primaries in particular tend to lean more conservative, especially in non-presidential election years.

All would get to vote even if amendment question were at same time as primary


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Gas prices are going up in Kansas.

"We have actually seen a pretty decent jump in gas prices in the past week," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Today's statewide average is $2.16 a gallon, which is up 12 cents from a week ago."

Gas price averages are at their highest in 10 months.

"That's despite the seasonal decrease in demand that we usually see this time of year," Steward said. "The main factors that are driving those prices up at the pump are tightening domestic supply and inventory and especially higher crude oil prices."

The choice by Saudi Arabia to cut its production by 1 million barrels a day next month is impacting those prices, but at least right now, both Kansas and Reno County are lower than some places.

"Kansas is 20 cents less than the national average, which is $2.36 a gallon," Steward said. "Kansas comes in at 9th cheapest in the country. Locally there in Reno County, in Hutchinson, the average is $2.11 a gallon, which is 5 cents cheaper than the statewide average."

Steward thinks there may be some looking to recover lost revenue from last year, when overall traffic volume was down considerably due to COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602791408211.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Gas prices are going up in Kansas."We have actually seen a pretty decent jump in gas prices in the past week," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Today's statewide average is $2.16 a gallon, which is up 12 cents from a week ago."Gas price averages are at their highest in 10 months."That's despite the seasonal decrease in demand that we usually see this time of year," Steward said. "The main factors that are driving those prices up at the pump are tightening domestic supply and inventory and especially higher crude oil prices."The choice by Saudi Arabia to cut its production by 1 million barrels a day next month is impacting those prices, but at least right now, both Kansas and Reno County are lower than some places."Kansas is 20 cents less than the national average, which is $2.36 a gallon," Steward said. "Kansas comes in at 9th cheapest in the country. Locally there in Reno County, in Hutchinson, the average is $2.11 a gallon, which is 5 cents cheaper than the statewide average."Steward thinks there may be some looking to recover lost revenue from last year, when overall traffic volume was down considerably due to COVID-19.