BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler City offices announced Monday that, due to a number of council members being absent during the Christmas season, Tuesday's meeting has been canceled.

City Manager Merrill Peterson says there aren't enough council members present for a quorum.

The next meeting will be Jan. 26 at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579535694180.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler City offices announced Monday that, due to a number of council members being absent during the Christmas season, Tuesday's meeting has been canceled.City Manager Merrill Peterson says there aren't enough council members present for a quorum.The next meeting will be Jan. 26 at 7 p.m.

Buhler City Council meeting canceled for December

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 574 as of Sunday evening. The death toll among Reno County residents is at 91. Forty-four people have died in the last 30 days.

Out of 6,415 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 568 cases in the community at large — 5,750 people have recovered thus far.

Twenty-seven Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred ninety-one total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

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., except for New Year's Day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608305721933.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 574 as of Sunday evening. The death toll among Reno County residents is at 91. Forty-four people have died in the last 30 days.Out of 6,415 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 568 cases in the community at large — 5,750 people have recovered thus far.Twenty-seven Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred ninety-one total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.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., except for New Year's Day.

COVID count continues to slide downward

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Riley County teen was injured in a single-vehicle accident in Reno County Friday evening.&nbsp;

The Reno County Sheriff's Department reports that 19-year-old Kianoa Torres-Barraozo of Fort Riley was driving east in the 12200 block of East 30th when he swerved to avoid a deer and rolled the vehicle.

Torres-Barraozo was treated at the scene by EMS, but was not transported. The accident happened just before 9 p.m., seven miles east of Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565275830792.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Riley County teen was injured in a single-vehicle accident in Reno County Friday evening.&nbsp;The Reno County Sheriff's Department reports that 19-year-old Kianoa Torres-Barraozo of Fort Riley was driving east in the 12200 block of East 30th when he swerved to avoid a deer and rolled the vehicle.Torres-Barraozo was treated at the scene by EMS, but was not transported. The accident happened just before 9 p.m., seven miles east of Hutchinson.

Riley Co. teen suffers minor injuries in single-vehicle accident

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Some very messy winter weather is on the way for central Kansas. Tuesday morning could be especially tough with a mixture of rain freezing rain and snow. Stay with hutchpost.com for the latest.

KSZ050&gt;053-067&gt;071-082-083-282300-
/O.NEW.KICT.WW.Y.0021.201229T0900Z-201229T1700Z/
Rice-McPherson-Marion-Chase-Reno-Harvey-Butler-Greenwood-Woodson-
Kingman-Sedgwick- WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 3 AM TO 11 AM CST
TUESDAY...

* WHAT...Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations
 of up to one inch and ice accumulations of around one tenth of
 an inch.

* WHERE...Portions of Central, South Central and Southeast
 Kansas.

* WHEN...From 3 AM to 11 AM CST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
 conditions could impact the morning commute.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606907543189.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Some very messy winter weather is on the way for central Kansas. Tuesday morning could be especially tough with a mixture of rain freezing rain and snow. Stay with hutchpost.com for the latest.KSZ050&gt;053-067&gt;071-082-083-282300-
/O.NEW.KICT.WW.Y.0021.201229T0900Z-201229T1700Z/
Rice-McPherson-Marion-Chase-Reno-Harvey-Butler-Greenwood-Woodson-
Kingman-Sedgwick- WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 3 AM TO 11 AM CST
TUESDAY...

* WHAT...Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow accumulations
 of up to one inch and ice accumulations of around one tenth of
 an inch.

* WHERE...Portions of Central, South Central and Southeast
 Kansas.

* WHEN...From 3 AM to 11 AM CST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous
 conditions could impact the morning commute.&nbsp;

Winter Weather Advisory in effect Tuesday morning

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the pandemic shutting down many services for senior citizens, Hutch Rec wanted to make sure that those who attend the Elmdale Senior Center had a Christmas dinner. 

Hutch Rec handed out more than 100 holiday meals to its senior members in a special drive-thru Christmas Dinner pick-up at the Senior Center at Elmdale Park. 

Hutch Rec wants to say "thank you" to its staff, volunteers and sponsors who helped spread holiday cheer to the seniors in the community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609153747193.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the pandemic shutting down many services for senior citizens, Hutch Rec wanted to make sure that those who attend the Elmdale Senior Center had a Christmas dinner. Hutch Rec handed out more than 100 holiday meals to its senior members in a special drive-thru Christmas Dinner pick-up at the Senior Center at Elmdale Park. Hutch Rec wants to say "thank you" to its staff, volunteers and sponsors who helped spread holiday cheer to the seniors in the community.

Hutch Rec hands out Christmas dinners

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —Hutchinson Chamber President Debra Teufel says, for the most part, shopping in the downtown area was good.

Teufel says many businesses reported a good Christmas shopping season. Some had great shopping. One of them was Westphal Jewelers. Owner Dick Westphal said that, after his business had to close in the spring, he wasn't sure how it would recover. Westphal says starting around September, business picked up rapidly and continued through the Christmas shopping season.&nbsp;

Westphal noted that it was more like in the past when residents from areas west of Hutchinson would come to shop and not go to Wichita. He noted that this Christmas was probably twice what it was last year. Westphal says that people wanted something nice for the holiday and many told him they were rededicating their efforts to support local businesses.

Sugartime Confections was another very busy place. With a treat called "cocoa bombs," the business has been so busy that owner Malynda Pearl has had to work hard to keep up with demand. The business offers many other sweet treats as well.

Teufel says that Mark Buckley at Toy Depot has also been busy. The nostalgia toy shop has always been popular during Christmas, but has been very busy again this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607541472743.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —Hutchinson Chamber President Debra Teufel says, for the most part, shopping in the downtown area was good.Teufel says many businesses reported a good Christmas shopping season. Some had great shopping. One of them was Westphal Jewelers. Owner Dick Westphal said that, after his business had to close in the spring, he wasn't sure how it would recover. Westphal says starting around September, business picked up rapidly and continued through the Christmas shopping season.&nbsp;Westphal noted that it was more like in the past when residents from areas west of Hutchinson would come to shop and not go to Wichita. He noted that this Christmas was probably twice what it was last year. Westphal says that people wanted something nice for the holiday and many told him they were rededicating their efforts to support local businesses.Sugartime Confections was another very busy place. With a treat called "cocoa bombs," the business has been so busy that owner Malynda Pearl has had to work hard to keep up with demand. The business offers many other sweet treats as well.Teufel says that Mark Buckley at Toy Depot has also been busy. The nostalgia toy shop has always been popular during Christmas, but has been very busy again this year.

Christmas was a good shot in the arm for downtown businesses

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 591 as of Saturday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 91. Forty-four people have died in the last 30 days. 

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 12 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 67 active cases. Thirty-three people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 6398 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 585 cases in the community at large. 5,716 people have recovered thus far.

The community's positive test rate is at 26.69%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.78%. 32.03% 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 591 as of Saturday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 91. Forty-four people have died in the last 30 days. The Correctional Facility cluster type has 12 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 67 active cases. Thirty-three people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 6398 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 585 cases in the community at large. 5,716 people have recovered thus far.Twenty-seven Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred ninety-one total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 26.69%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.78%. 32.03% 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., except for New Year's Day.

Case count at 591, with 585 in community as of Saturday afternoon

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission will have a short agenda for Tuesday's session.

The board will take action on a resolution renewing the proclamation of the State of Local Disaster Emergency for the county.

The declaration allows the county to seek out funding that provides PPE and other necessary items for employers and schools. Approval of the item is part of the consent agenda.&nbsp; Approval would extend the order through March 31.

The board will also get an update on the pandemic and hear the various reports. Tuesday's meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608721993976.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission will have a short agenda for Tuesday's session.The board will take action on a resolution renewing the proclamation of the State of Local Disaster Emergency for the county.The declaration allows the county to seek out funding that provides PPE and other necessary items for employers and schools. Approval of the item is part of the consent agenda.&nbsp; Approval would extend the order through March 31.The board will also get an update on the pandemic and hear the various reports. Tuesday's meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Commission has light agenda Tuesday

TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission has completed an investigation into whether the recent string of earthquakes occurring in the Wichita area are related to oil and gas industry activity. The KCC regulates oil and gas production and exploration in the state.

“Based on our investigation, KCC staff does not believe the seismicity in Wichita, Kansas is tied to any oil and gas activities in the area,” said Ryan A. Hoffman, Director of the KCC Conservation Division.

The KCC’s investigation examined many factors including:

· A review of historical disposal well records for Arbuckle or Granite Wash injection wells within a six-mile radius of the earthquakes. Five wells were located in the radius.  No recent volume increases were found.

· Any new drilling activity within three miles of the epicenters. No new wells were recently completed within the area.

· Spot checks of the wells within the radius area to verify compliance with permit conditions. 

This investigation procedure is outlined in the Seismic Action Plan developed in 2014 in collaboration with the Kansas Geological Survey and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. An investigation is triggered whenever an earthquake of M 3.5 or higher occurs in the state or when an earthquake scores a 17 or higher Seismic Action Score which takes into account variables such as risk, clustering and timing.

The KCC will continue to monitor the situation and consult with the Kansas Geological Survey and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment as necessary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578754176087.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission has completed an investigation into whether the recent string of earthquakes occurring in the Wichita area are related to oil and gas industry activity. The KCC regulates oil and gas production and exploration in the state.“Based on our investigation, KCC staff does not believe the seismicity in Wichita, Kansas is tied to any oil and gas activities in the area,” said Ryan A. Hoffman, Director of the KCC Conservation Division.The KCC’s investigation examined many factors including:· A review of historical disposal well records for Arbuckle or Granite Wash injection wells within a six-mile radius of the earthquakes. Five wells were located in the radius. No recent volume increases were found.· Any new drilling activity within three miles of the epicenters. No new wells were recently completed within the area.· Spot checks of the wells within the radius area to verify compliance with permit conditions. This investigation procedure is outlined in the Seismic Action Plan developed in 2014 in collaboration with the Kansas Geological Survey and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. An investigation is triggered whenever an earthquake of M 3.5 or higher occurs in the state or when an earthquake scores a 17 or higher Seismic Action Score which takes into account variables such as risk, clustering and timing.The KCC will continue to monitor the situation and consult with the Kansas Geological Survey and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment as necessary.

KCC completes investigation of Wichita area earthquakes

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 591 as of Friday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 91.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 19 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 68 active cases. Thirty-three people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 6,371 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 582 cases in the community at large. 5,689 people have recovered thus far.

The community's positive test rate is at 26.69%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.99%. 31.68% 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 591 as of Friday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 91.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 19 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 68 active cases. Thirty-three people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 6,371 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 582 cases in the community at large. 5,689 people have recovered thus far.Twenty-seven Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred ninety-one total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 26.69%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.99%. 31.68% 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., except for New Year's Day.

Case count at 591, with 582 in community as of Friday afternoon


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Administrator Randy Partington is still watching warily where the budget might go in 2021.

"I think the big concern at the county for me on the budget is, we didn't have a sales tax decrease during 2020, which is great," Partington said. "We don't know if that was because people were at home more, or were not traveling to the bigger communities to shop. We're hoping that the sales tax doesn't take a big hit in 2021."

It's also important that people remain in their homes so that property tax revenues can remain consistent.

"Until we know more about the virus and how we can slowly eradicate it, hopefully we can eradicate it, there definitely is unknowns about what assistance the county is going to receive, businesses are going to receive, so that we can continue to live life to our fullest and operate at 100%," Partington said. 

Partington knows that with a new commissioner coming on the board in Daniel Friesen in January, there will be some learning curve as he explains how the county's processes work, as he had to do with Dr. Mark Steffen when he joined after the death of Bob Bush this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576599188284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Administrator Randy Partington is still watching warily where the budget might go in 2021."I think the big concern at the county for me on the budget is, we didn't have a sales tax decrease during 2020, which is great," Partington said. "We don't know if that was because people were at home more, or were not traveling to the bigger communities to shop. We're hoping that the sales tax doesn't take a big hit in 2021."It's also important that people remain in their homes so that property tax revenues can remain consistent."Until we know more about the virus and how we can slowly eradicate it, hopefully we can eradicate it, there definitely is unknowns about what assistance the county is going to receive, businesses are going to receive, so that we can continue to live life to our fullest and operate at 100%," Partington said. Partington knows that with a new commissioner coming on the board in Daniel Friesen in January, there will be some learning curve as he explains how the county's processes work, as he had to do with Dr. Mark Steffen when he joined after the death of Bob Bush this year.

Partington: COVID still causing revenue uncertainty, even though good so far


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — President Donald Trump has not yet signed the combination of spending bills and coronavirus relief passed by Congress.

"The bills are packaged together as one piece of legislation," U.S. Senator Jerry Moran said Thursday. "I wish that wasn't the case."

If President Trump decides to veto the bill and nothing else is done, the government will run out of money before the first of the year.

"President Trump and his administration participated in the negotiations of this bill," Moran said. "When we got 96 votes, it wasn't just satisfying members of the Senate or members of the House. The Secretary of the Treasury on behalf of the administration was fully engaged in the negotiations of this bill, so the expectation was that the President would be supportive."

President Trump has called for larger direct payments to Americans than the $600 in the legislation that is now in front of him. The House plans to return Monday to vote to override President Trump's veto of the annual defense authorization bill. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604336319153.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — President Donald Trump has not yet signed the combination of spending bills and coronavirus relief passed by Congress."The bills are packaged together as one piece of legislation," U.S. Senator Jerry Moran said Thursday. "I wish that wasn't the case."If President Trump decides to veto the bill and nothing else is done, the government will run out of money before the first of the year."President Trump and his administration participated in the negotiations of this bill," Moran said. "When we got 96 votes, it wasn't just satisfying members of the Senate or members of the House. The Secretary of the Treasury on behalf of the administration was fully engaged in the negotiations of this bill, so the expectation was that the President would be supportive."President Trump has called for larger direct payments to Americans than the $600 in the legislation that is now in front of him. The House plans to return Monday to vote to override President Trump's veto of the annual defense authorization bill.

Moran: Administration 'fully engaged' in bill that passed, but is not yet signed


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — AAA is offering a special thank you between now and the end of the year to those who have been working hard to help in the midst of the pandemic.

"We just want to thank all of the health care professionals and teachers and educators out there," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "They've really been out there on the front line, just spending tireless hours in a very challenging year. We want to thank them. Right now, we're offering a special AAA membership offer. You can get 50% off of primary dues for new members, or you can add one free associate membership, if you're an existing member."

Health care professionals, first responders, teachers, administrators, support staff, school bus drivers, custodial workers in schools and anyone else who works in education are eligible.

"We're also seeing a lot of people give those memberships as gifts this time of year," Steward said. "It's kind of the gift that keeps on giving, in terms of peace of mind."

For more information, call AAA at a number for this offer 1-844-317-0063.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580240948974.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — AAA is offering a special thank you between now and the end of the year to those who have been working hard to help in the midst of the pandemic."We just want to thank all of the health care professionals and teachers and educators out there," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "They've really been out there on the front line, just spending tireless hours in a very challenging year. We want to thank them. Right now, we're offering a special AAA membership offer. You can get 50% off of primary dues for new members, or you can add one free associate membership, if you're an existing member."Health care professionals, first responders, teachers, administrators, support staff, school bus drivers, custodial workers in schools and anyone else who works in education are eligible."We're also seeing a lot of people give those memberships as gifts this time of year," Steward said. "It's kind of the gift that keeps on giving, in terms of peace of mind."For more information, call AAA at a number for this offer 1-844-317-0063.

AAA offers special for frontline workers, teachers through year end

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with sportscaster and author Bob Davis.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1726c09f-9b53-4650-bbc7-6d7b7b6ad57d">To read more about Davis' recent book click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Sportscaster and author Bob Davis" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/tjjiv-f4aef9?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 sportscaster and author Bob Davis.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1726c09f-9b53-4650-bbc7-6d7b7b6ad57d">To read more about Davis' recent book click here.</a>

🎤Forward Ever: Sportscaster and author Bob Davis

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As we celebrate Christmas, it's important to note what Christmas is not about, as told by Andy Addis from <a href="https://www.crosspointnow.net/">CrossPoint</a> in Hutchinson.

"The angels declared in the Luke 2 part of the narrative that, with the coming of Jesus, which is the whole purpose of Christmas, that there would be peace on earth and goodwill toward men," Addis said. "There's the question of, well, when's that going to happen? If that's really the promise of Christmas, where's all this peace on earth and goodwill toward men? There's a misunderstanding that what is being promised is that there will be a global peace and every man will have the opportunity and desire to lay down arms and embrace one another. The truth is that the story is about not everything coming together on planet Earth, but its about the conflict between God and humanity being over."

Pastor Matt Stafford from <a href="https://firstcongregationalhutch.org/">First Congregational Church</a> let listeners know how they can make a choice to find that peace in their own life.

"That peace is found by realizing, from the very beginning when he said goodwill towards men, that means again, grace from God to man," Stafford said. "The way you find that in Jesus Christ is understanding that the purpose of Christmas is Easter and that his death and resurrection is what we put trust in personally to accept the work of Christ in his perfectness to through his grace, give us eternal life."

For Christmas Eve service arrangements, go to the <a href="https://www.crosspointnow.net/">CrossPoint</a> or <a href="https://firstcongregationalhutch.org/">First Congregational Church</a> webpages.

Below is our full conversation with the pastors from the BW Morning Show...

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608836174258.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As we celebrate Christmas, it's important to note what Christmas is not about, as told by Andy Addis from <a href="https://www.crosspointnow.net/">CrossPoint</a> in Hutchinson."The angels declared in the Luke 2 part of the narrative that, with the coming of Jesus, which is the whole purpose of Christmas, that there would be peace on earth and goodwill toward men," Addis said. "There's the question of, well, when's that going to happen? If that's really the promise of Christmas, where's all this peace on earth and goodwill toward men? There's a misunderstanding that what is being promised is that there will be a global peace and every man will have the opportunity and desire to lay down arms and embrace one another. The truth is that the story is about not everything coming together on planet Earth, but its about the conflict between God and humanity being over."Pastor Matt Stafford from <a href="https://firstcongregationalhutch.org/">First Congregational Church</a> let listeners know how they can make a choice to find that peace in their own life."That peace is found by realizing, from the very beginning when he said goodwill towards men, that means again, grace from God to man," Stafford said. "The way you find that in Jesus Christ is understanding that the purpose of Christmas is Easter and that his death and resurrection is what we put trust in personally to accept the work of Christ in his perfectness to through his grace, give us eternal life."For Christmas Eve service arrangements, go to the <a href="https://www.crosspointnow.net/">CrossPoint</a> or <a href="https://firstcongregationalhutch.org/">First Congregational Church</a> webpages.Below is our full conversation with the pastors from the BW Morning Show...<div><iframe title="KWBW Morning Show Pastor Interview 12-24-20" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/5fdkn-f5de1a?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

Local pastors say Peace on Earth starts in individual hearts

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The unexpected boost in sales tax revenue for the area means that some
cuts that were made to the City of Hutchinson's budget may be restored for next
year.

“We’re
pretty excited about this,” Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell said.&nbsp; "We
didn’t anticipate this.”

Despite the
pandemic, sales tax revenue not only stayed level, it actually increased over the
year surpassing last year’s total.

What it
means for the city is that a number of seasonal jobs that were eliminated from
the budget for next year could be restored. Most of those jobs will be in the
parks department. What that will mean for residents is better upkeep of the city’s
surroundings. 

"We have
had some complaints about the tall grass in areas,” Cantrell said. “That will
be able to be taken care of.”

It could be
seven or eight positions that were eliminated coming back by this spring.

Cantrell
says that they may look into some CIP projects that were not on the books for
next year as well.

Sales tax
revenue for the county increased the past seven months of 2020 despite the
pandemic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592409609109.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The unexpected boost in sales tax revenue for the area means that some
cuts that were made to the City of Hutchinson's budget may be restored for next
year.“We’re
pretty excited about this,” Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell said.&nbsp; "We
didn’t anticipate this.”Despite the
pandemic, sales tax revenue not only stayed level, it actually increased over the
year surpassing last year’s total.What it
means for the city is that a number of seasonal jobs that were eliminated from
the budget for next year could be restored. Most of those jobs will be in the
parks department. What that will mean for residents is better upkeep of the city’s
surroundings. "We have
had some complaints about the tall grass in areas,” Cantrell said. “That will
be able to be taken care of.”It could be
seven or eight positions that were eliminated coming back by this spring.Cantrell
says that they may look into some CIP projects that were not on the books for
next year as well.Sales tax
revenue for the county increased the past seven months of 2020 despite the
pandemic.

Some job cuts may be restored by the city of Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Sales tax collections for Reno County ended the year on another positive upswing. A strong close to 2020 in tax revenue was not expected but it is certainly welcome.

December sales tax revenue totaled $400,418, an increase of
more than $17,500 over the same period last year. 

The results released this week mark the seventh month in a row that sales tax revenue
increased year-over-year. The numbers reflect increases in prices for goods as
well as people spending more for home projects and other goods including
automobiles. Sales tax numbers for December reflect shopping for the month of October.

The revenue countered what was expected to be a sharp
downturn in revenue for cities and counties as the pandemic caused layoffs and shut down businesses.

For the year the county took in approximately $4,811,000 compared with $4,694,000 in 2019.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565223563029.png" alt="Sales Tax" />
 <figcaption>Sales Tax</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Sales tax collections for Reno County ended the year on another positive upswing. A strong close to 2020 in tax revenue was not expected but it is certainly welcome.December sales tax revenue totaled $400,418, an increase of
more than $17,500 over the same period last year. The results released this week mark the seventh month in a row that sales tax revenue
increased year-over-year. The numbers reflect increases in prices for goods as
well as people spending more for home projects and other goods including
automobiles. Sales tax numbers for December reflect shopping for the month of October.The revenue countered what was expected to be a sharp
downturn in revenue for cities and counties as the pandemic caused layoffs and shut down businesses.For the year the county took in approximately $4,811,000 compared with $4,694,000 in 2019.

Sales tax revenue increases again for December

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County landfill will be on
holiday hours over the next week. This means the landfill will be closed both Christmas
and New Year’s Day. Those holidays both fall on Friday.

The landfill will be open the day after Christmas and
January 2, both Saturdays. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hours at the landfill are from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602175085989.jpeg" alt="Reno County Graphic" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Graphic</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County landfill will be on
holiday hours over the next week. This means the landfill will be closed both Christmas
and New Year’s Day. Those holidays both fall on Friday.The landfill will be open the day after Christmas and
January 2, both Saturdays. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hours at the landfill are from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Reno County Landfill closed Christmas and New Year's Day

NEWTON,
Kan. — 
A woman was injured in a fire in Newton Christmas Eve morning.

According to a Facebook post, Newton firefighters were called to an apartment at 217 Muse around 3 a.m. Thursday for an automatic fire alarm. 

Responding crews saw smoke coming from the apartment and removed a woman, who was then taken to a Wichita hospital in critical condition. 

Fire crews were able to contain the fire inside the original apartment and no other tenants were displaced. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608819612253.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. — 
A woman was injured in a fire in Newton Christmas Eve morning.According to a Facebook post, Newton firefighters were called to an apartment at 217 Muse around 3 a.m. Thursday for an automatic fire alarm. Responding crews saw smoke coming from the apartment and removed a woman, who was then taken to a Wichita hospital in critical condition. Fire crews were able to contain the fire inside the original apartment and no other tenants were displaced. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Woman injured in Christmas Eve fire in Newton

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 612 as of Wednesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 90. This is the lowest the active case count has been since late October.

Out of 6,317 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 601 cases in the community at large. 5,615 people have recovered thus far.

Twenty-five Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred eighty-eight total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 26.69%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.93%. 31.33% 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 will reopen 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 612 as of Wednesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 90. This is the lowest the active case count has been since late October.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 19 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 68 active cases. Thirty-three people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 6,317 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 601 cases in the community at large. 5,615 people have recovered thus far.Twenty-five Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred eighty-eight total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 26.69%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.93%. 31.33% 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 will reopen Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Case count lowest since late October in Reno County, death count at 90

KIOWA COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Wednesday in Kiowa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Nissan Xterra driven by Austin R. Alstatt, 41, Pratt, was eastbound on U.S. 54 at the U.S. 400 Junction.

The Nissan crossed the centerline and collided with a westbound&nbsp; 2008 Peterbilt semi driven by Bert M. Ecton, 72, Derby.

EMS transported&nbsp; Alstatt to Wesley Medical Center.&nbsp;Ecton was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592922810332.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KIOWA COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Wednesday in Kiowa County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Nissan Xterra driven by Austin R. Alstatt, 41, Pratt, was eastbound on U.S. 54 at the U.S. 400 Junction.The Nissan crossed the centerline and collided with a westbound&nbsp; 2008 Peterbilt semi driven by Bert M. Ecton, 72, Derby.EMS transported&nbsp; Alstatt to Wesley Medical Center.&nbsp;Ecton was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Man from Pratt hospitalized after crash with semi

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 announced it will be going to the flex learning format for one week after the Christmas break. School will be back from Christmas break Jan. 4. The district is now off for Christmas break.

The district will return to school, as dictated by the Gating Criteria, on Monday, Jan. 11. On Jan. 11, Pre-K to fifth grade will be returning in the continued cohorting model. Grades 6-12 will be returning to the Hybrid Model using the following schedule: A -B- A- B- A

The goal of going to Flex Learning is to allow 10 days after the holiday gatherings to contain the virus spread. The district says it anticipates many will be widening their inner circle over the holidays with extended family and friends.&nbsp;

Parents are asked to&nbsp; use the 10 days from Jan. 1 to Jan. 10 to let any virus they may have been exposed to over the holidays run its course and return to a small circle of exposure.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 announced it will be going to the flex learning format for one week after the Christmas break. School will be back from Christmas break Jan. 4. The district is now off for Christmas break.The district will return to school, as dictated by the Gating Criteria, on Monday, Jan. 11. On Jan. 11, Pre-K to fifth grade will be returning in the continued cohorting model. Grades 6-12 will be returning to the Hybrid Model using the following schedule: A -B- A- B- AThe goal of going to Flex Learning is to allow 10 days after the holiday gatherings to contain the virus spread. The district says it anticipates many will be widening their inner circle over the holidays with extended family and friends.&nbsp;Parents are asked to&nbsp; use the 10 days from Jan. 1 to Jan. 10 to let any virus they may have been exposed to over the holidays run its course and return to a small circle of exposure.&nbsp;

USD 313 announces post-Christmas format

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you need to return items, local merchants will work with you

If these items were purchased locally, whether ordered or not, you should be able to return them with little trouble. Every store has its own rules about returns, so check first. The best way to get any return is to keep the receipt.&nbsp;

Ordering online can be a little different. According to Amazon, if you want to return an item, you can do so within 30 days of a purchase or receipt of a gift. Amazon will accept returns without hassle in that time frame. After that period, many items are still eligible for return or replacement if they prove defective.&nbsp;

Most other online stores will only accept returns of unused and unopened items. If it’s clothing, you must keep the tags on the clothing in order to return the purchase. Most online stores have step-by-step instructions for processing a return. Follow the steps and select the reason for the return.

If you purchased locally, you’ll usually get results right away. If you shipped online, prepare to wait at least a few days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1575044961317.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you need to return items, local merchants will work with youIf these items were purchased locally, whether ordered or not, you should be able to return them with little trouble. Every store has its own rules about returns, so check first. The best way to get any return is to keep the receipt.&nbsp;Ordering online can be a little different. According to Amazon, if you want to return an item, you can do so within 30 days of a purchase or receipt of a gift. Amazon will accept returns without hassle in that time frame. After that period, many items are still eligible for return or replacement if they prove defective.&nbsp;Most other online stores will only accept returns of unused and unopened items. If it’s clothing, you must keep the tags on the clothing in order to return the purchase. Most online stores have step-by-step instructions for processing a return. Follow the steps and select the reason for the return.If you purchased locally, you’ll usually get results right away. If you shipped online, prepare to wait at least a few days.

Returning gifts easier if you shopped local

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Wednesday that Jupiter Hills Drive is now open again between Cherry Hills and Spyglass. While there will be some minor work left, the road is open again. The traffic signals at 3rd and Severance are operating again and most of the street work is done in that area as well.&nbsp;

The traffic signals at 4th and Severance are still out after a traffic accident earlier this week and will remain out through at least the holidays.

Another important traffic note, the intersection of 9th and Main is now a controlled crosswalk. The crosswalk is the same as the one along East 11th at the Cosmosphere. When the lights are activated, the lights will be yellow and then turn red. After a short time, the lights will flash red. At that time, if there is no pedestrian traffic in the crosswalk, you may proceed through the intersection.&nbsp;

Both directions of 9th Avenue are now standard stop signs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608758503786.jpeg" alt="New traffic signals at 9th and Main in Hutchinson. The signals are for pedestrian traffic and are similar to the crosswalk on East 11th near the Cosmosphere." />
 <figcaption>New traffic signals at 9th and Main in Hutchinson. The signals are for pedestrian traffic and are similar to the crosswalk on East 11th near the Cosmosphere.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Wednesday that Jupiter Hills Drive is now open again between Cherry Hills and Spyglass. While there will be some minor work left, the road is open again. The traffic signals at 3rd and Severance are operating again and most of the street work is done in that area as well.&nbsp;The traffic signals at 4th and Severance are still out after a traffic accident earlier this week and will remain out through at least the holidays.Another important traffic note, the intersection of 9th and Main is now a controlled crosswalk. The crosswalk is the same as the one along East 11th at the Cosmosphere. When the lights are activated, the lights will be yellow and then turn red. After a short time, the lights will flash red. At that time, if there is no pedestrian traffic in the crosswalk, you may proceed through the intersection.&nbsp;Both directions of 9th Avenue are now standard stop signs.

Traffic notices for Hutchinson streets


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — AAA Travel projects about 7.1 million people in the West North Central region – which includes Kansas – will travel for the year-end holidays, down from 9.6 million in 2019.

"COVID-19 is obviously a big factor on people's minds and in their decisionmaking to stay home," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "The number of holiday travelers in our region is the fewest projected since 2002."

As is usually the case, but even more so this year, the vast majority of the region's travelers, 6.88 million, will be doing so by car.

"There's a lot more control that way," Steward said. "You can have your family unit, you're not being exposed to other people who, you don't know who they've been in contact with."

If you do choose to travel, check with state and local officials along your route and at your destination to learn about local guidance and any restrictions that may be in place.

"Pack the snacks and the things you need instead of needing to go into a convenience store or a rest stop," Steward said. "That's just less contact you have with other folks."

For the purposes of this forecast, the year-end holiday travel period is defined as the period from Wednesday, Dec. 23 to Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580240948974.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — AAA Travel projects about 7.1 million people in the West North Central region – which includes Kansas – will travel for the year-end holidays, down from 9.6 million in 2019."COVID-19 is obviously a big factor on people's minds and in their decisionmaking to stay home," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "The number of holiday travelers in our region is the fewest projected since 2002."As is usually the case, but even more so this year, the vast majority of the region's travelers, 6.88 million, will be doing so by car."There's a lot more control that way," Steward said. "You can have your family unit, you're not being exposed to other people who, you don't know who they've been in contact with."If you do choose to travel, check with state and local officials along your route and at your destination to learn about local guidance and any restrictions that may be in place."Pack the snacks and the things you need instead of needing to go into a convenience store or a rest stop," Steward said. "That's just less contact you have with other folks."For the purposes of this forecast, the year-end holiday travel period is defined as the period from Wednesday, Dec. 23 to Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021.