MCPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson County Sheriff's Department is investigating a scam that was reported by a resident.

According to the sheriff's office, the scam is a phone call from a concerned citizen in reference to a family member being contacted by Capt. Doug Anderson and directed to purchase a $500 gift card from Walmart because they missed jury duty. The individual was directed to bring the gift card to the jail and drop it off. They were told they would eventually get their money back after reporting for jury duty.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A phone number of 620-798-3009 is being used as a "County Sheriff's Office" number. If you call the number, it has a generic robot voicemail and does not specify an individual agency. The voicemail is set up to replicate a legitimate agency. Do not answer any calls from this number and contact your local law enforcement agency through a number you know to be legitimate if you have any concerns.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595603276950.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson County Sheriff's Department is investigating a scam that was reported by a resident.According to the sheriff's office, the scam is a phone call from a concerned citizen in reference to a family member being contacted by Capt. Doug Anderson and directed to purchase a $500 gift card from Walmart because they missed jury duty. The individual was directed to bring the gift card to the jail and drop it off. They were told they would eventually get their money back after reporting for jury duty.&nbsp;&nbsp;A phone number of 620-798-3009 is being used as a "County Sheriff's Office" number. If you call the number, it has a generic robot voicemail and does not specify an individual agency. The voicemail is set up to replicate a legitimate agency. Do not answer any calls from this number and contact your local law enforcement agency through a number you know to be legitimate if you have any concerns.

McPherson Co. Sheriff's Department investigating phone scam

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The unemployment rate for Reno County fell again in June as businesses started to open following the pandemic-driven shutdown.

The June unemployment rate was 6.4% compared with 8.1% in May. Hutchinson’s unemployment rate also fell from 8.9% in May to 7.3% in June.

There were 1,975 county residents without a job in June, which is 524 fewer than in May. The state’s unemployment rate fell from 10% in May to 7.5% in June.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561209733269.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The unemployment rate for Reno County fell again in June as businesses started to open following the pandemic-driven shutdown.The June unemployment rate was 6.4% compared with 8.1% in May. Hutchinson’s unemployment rate also fell from 8.9% in May to 7.3% in June.There were 1,975 county residents without a job in June, which is 524 fewer than in May. The state’s unemployment rate fell from 10% in May to 7.5% in June.&nbsp;

Reno County unemployment rate falls in June

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After a long wait, Hutchinson High School will graduate the class of 2020 Saturday morning.&nbsp;

A few reminders for those attending: First, it looks like the weather will cooperate and so the ceremony will be held at Gowans Stadium. Graduates need to report to the SAC by 8:20 a.m. to get lined up.

Each graduate will be allowed to invite four guests or the number of immediate family members. The reason for the change is that we have had students inform us that they were not attending the ceremony or were not needing the extra seats. In addition, seating will be on the east side of the stadium.&nbsp;

In order to prevent additional exposure to COVID-19 and reduce the number of contact, exchange tickets will not be issued and admittance will be based on the honor system. The district will be live streaming the ceremony for those that cannot attend or are medically compromised.

The gates to Gowans Stadium will be open to the public at about 8 a.m. Seating is first come, first serve. To help make this a special and enjoyable event for all in attendance, we ask that you refrain from using air horns or other noisemakers. Applause is the appropriate response when your graduate’s name is read.

The district is encouraging all families to wear masks and practice social distancing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After a long wait, Hutchinson High School will graduate the class of 2020 Saturday morning.&nbsp;A few reminders for those attending: First, it looks like the weather will cooperate and so the ceremony will be held at Gowans Stadium. Graduates need to report to the SAC by 8:20 a.m. to get lined up.Each graduate will be allowed to invite four guests or the number of immediate family members. The reason for the change is that we have had students inform us that they were not attending the ceremony or were not needing the extra seats. In addition, seating will be on the east side of the stadium.&nbsp;In order to prevent additional exposure to COVID-19 and reduce the number of contact, exchange tickets will not be issued and admittance will be based on the honor system. The district will be live streaming the ceremony for those that cannot attend or are medically compromised.The gates to Gowans Stadium will be open to the public at about 8 a.m. Seating is first come, first serve. To help make this a special and enjoyable event for all in attendance, we ask that you refrain from using air horns or other noisemakers. Applause is the appropriate response when your graduate’s name is read.The district is encouraging all families to wear masks and practice social distancing.

USD 308 graduation is Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After getting approval from the Hutchinson City Council in June, work is underway on the Hutchinson water tower at Avenue A and Adams.

The project includes recoating the interior and the exterior of the tank and the supporting columns. Work crews will also be adding a rail on top to mount antennas from on top of the tank and brackets for communication cables that feed those antennas. Improvements will also be made to the tower's ladder safety climb system&nbsp;

G&amp;L Tank Sandblasting &amp; Coatings LLC is doing the work at a cost of $347,300.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595536881413.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After getting approval from the Hutchinson City Council in June, work is underway on the Hutchinson water tower at Avenue A and Adams.The project includes recoating the interior and the exterior of the tank and the supporting columns. Work crews will also be adding a rail on top to mount antennas from on top of the tank and brackets for communication cables that feed those antennas. Improvements will also be made to the tower's ladder safety climb system&nbsp;G&amp;L Tank Sandblasting &amp; Coatings LLC is doing the work at a cost of $347,300.

Work underway on A and Adams water tower

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emanuel Lutheran Church announced that the next TEFAP commodity distribution will be Sunday, July 26 from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Dillon Living Center at 1901 E 23rd.

The program is for low-income citizens of all ages and commodities are served on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is required and no paperwork is needed.&nbsp;

Due to the pandemic, the building will be closed and distribution will be drive-up only and you will only be able to pick up boxes for yourself.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591105874721.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emanuel Lutheran Church announced that the next TEFAP commodity distribution will be Sunday, July 26 from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Dillon Living Center at 1901 E 23rd.The program is for low-income citizens of all ages and commodities are served on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is required and no paperwork is needed.&nbsp;Due to the pandemic, the building will be closed and distribution will be drive-up only and you will only be able to pick up boxes for yourself.

TEFAP distribution is Sunday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The city of Hutchinson will hold its annual Emancipation Day next week.

Activities begin on Thursday, July 30 with a symbolic march to the new Chester I Lewis Plaza for a dedication ceremony starting at 5 p.m. The movie "Just Mercy" will then follow at 7 p.m. at the Fox Theatre.

Friday’s activities include the three-point shoot out and jazz entertainment at Avenue A park featuring the George Sander’s Band at 8:00 p.m. The three-day event is highlighted by the annual parade starting at 10:00 a.m. Saturday. The parade will start at Avenue B and run north to 7th and Main. At noon there will be a free picnic at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.

The Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Lincoln started the legal process that resulted in the abolition of slavery in the United States. Although the Emancipation Day Celebrations have its origin in the unique historic experience of Black America, these events are open to people of all races to celebrate and enjoy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595537801502.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The city of Hutchinson will hold its annual Emancipation Day next week.Activities begin on Thursday, July 30 with a symbolic march to the new Chester I Lewis Plaza for a dedication ceremony starting at 5 p.m. The movie "Just Mercy" will then follow at 7 p.m. at the Fox Theatre.Friday’s activities include the three-point shoot out and jazz entertainment at Avenue A park featuring the George Sander’s Band at 8:00 p.m. The three-day event is highlighted by the annual parade starting at 10:00 a.m. Saturday. The parade will start at Avenue B and run north to 7th and Main. At noon there will be a free picnic at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.The Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Lincoln started the legal process that resulted in the abolition of slavery in the United States. Although the Emancipation Day Celebrations have its origin in the unique historic experience of Black America, these events are open to people of all races to celebrate and enjoy.

Emancipation Day celebration begins Thursday

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 announced Wednesday that they will extend their summer meal program by one month.

The district announced that they have secured funding to keep the program going through August 28. The district normally does not serve summer meals but did so after securing funds after schools were closed in the spring.

Meals will be served at Buhler High School only from 11 a.m. until noon. The district also announced Wednesday that they will have open enrollment for new students on August 4 from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the school the student will attend. A list of supplies that will be needed for your student is also available at <a href="https://www.usd313.org/">usd313.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569532458211.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 announced Wednesday that they will extend their summer meal program by one month.The district announced that they have secured funding to keep the program going through August 28. The district normally does not serve summer meals but did so after securing funds after schools were closed in the spring.Meals will be served at Buhler High School only from 11 a.m. until noon. The district also announced Wednesday that they will have open enrollment for new students on August 4 from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the school the student will attend. A list of supplies that will be needed for your student is also available at <a href="https://www.usd313.org/">usd313.org</a>.

Buhler USD 313 extending summer meal program

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ Republican attorney general said Thursday that he believes both counties and local school districts can exempt themselves from the Democratic governor’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d03755cc88648b0c2c2a275f1e9b1747">coronavirus-inspired order</a>&nbsp;requiring schools to have staff and students wear masks.

Gov. Laura Kelly replied in a scathing statement that Attorney General Derek Schmidt is wrong and that he and fellow Republicans have “only created more hurdles and uncertainty” during the pandemic. Schmidt’s comments in an Associated Press interview represented the latest instance in which a Republican has undercut an action by Kelly aimed at curbing the spread of the new coronavirus.

Republican officials and conservatives outside government have argued that it’s inappropriate for Kelly to impose “one-size fits all” measures— and hurt the economy— while the rate of reported new coronavirus cases varies widely across the state. Kelly has pointed to a coronavirus resurgence in recent weeks that has pushed the total confirmed cases past 24,000 and COVID-19-related deaths past 300.

The Republican-controlled Legislature successfully pressured Kelly to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a5e30a0ec7a5943ada9f03af22ee1970">lift statewide restrictions</a>&nbsp;on businesses and public gatherings on May 26, and the GOP-dominated State Board of Education on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6a64799654f6a9ccb944299898f8d367">blocked Kelly’s plan</a>&nbsp;to delay the reopening of K-12 schools for three weeks, from mid-August until after Labor Day. Decisions on business restrictions are left to counties while local boards of education are to determine school reopenings.

Kelly issued her&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/EO-20-59-PDF.pdf" target="_blank">masks-in-schools order</a>&nbsp;Monday, imposing rules for public and private schools that are stricter than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.org/Teaching-Learning/Resources/Navigating-Change-Kansas-Guide-to-Learning-and-School-Safety-Operations" target="_blank">guidelines</a>&nbsp;set by the State Board of Education. It also would require schools to do daily checks for fever on all staff and students.

“It’s odd position that the administration has taken that their order is somehow is not subject to county opt-out the way all their other orders are,” Schmidt said. “Local school districts have the constitutional authority to opt out.”

The attorney general added that he’s had conversations with local officials who have raised the issue of whether they can opt out of Kelly’s order. Schmidt said he told the governor’s office of his legal opinion before Kelly issued the order.

“His comments further demonstrate that he and Republican leadership have abdicated their duty to serve the people of Kansas during the worst public health crisis in a century — and instead, put the burden back on local communities,” Kelly told AP in response to Schmidt’s stance.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020s/b2020s/measures/documents/summary_hb_2016_2020special" target="_blank">A law&nbsp;</a>enacted last month as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/56291b90279c36bafb21087cdc845c8a">a compromise</a>&nbsp;between the Democratic governor and GOP lawmakers allows the state’s 105 counties to opt out of Kelly’s health orders, such as one she issued July 2 to require people to wear masks in public and at their workplaces. Schmidt said that law applies to the masks-in-schools order.

Kelly said Monday that it doesn’t because it involves the state’s 286 local school districts, which operate independently of counties under local elected school boards.

The same law required the State Board of Education’s approval of Kelly’s plan to delay the start of fall K-12 classes or to close school buildings. Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8e5672095558ab92d7505f2a06f9a9b9">ordered K-12 school buildings closed</a>&nbsp;in mid-March for the rest of the previous school year, drawing criticism from conservative GOP lawmakers.

The law doesn’t give the state board any authority to reject other Kelly orders, but Schmidt said Kansas law gives local districts “home rule” powers to manage their own affairs. And&nbsp;<a href="https://kslib.info/832/Article-6-Education" target="_blank">the state constitution&nbsp;</a>says local public schools “shall be maintained, developed and operated by locally elected boards.”

“I worry this is going needlessly become another flare-up,” Schmidt said.

Senate President Susan Wagle, a conservative Wichita Republican frequently critical of Kelly’s handling of the pandemic, said legislators wrote last month’s law “to ensure local control over these decisions.”

“The law is what the law is, and it has to be followed or it has to be changed,” Schmidt said. “It can’t simply be ignored.”

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Thursday that he believes both counties and local school districts can exempt themselves from Gov. Laura Kelly’s coronavirus-inspired order requiring schools to have staff and students wear masks.

The Republican attorney general said during an Associated Press interview that he told the Democratic governor’s office his opinion before Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d03755cc88648b0c2c2a275f1e9b1747">issued the order&nbsp;</a>Monday. The order also requires daily temperature checks for staff and students.

Kelly has said neither counties nor local school districts can opt out, unlike an order she issued July 2 to require people to wear masks in public places.

Schmidt’s comments came a day after a plan from Kelly to delay the reopening of public and private K-12 schools from mid-August until after Labor Day&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6a64799654f6a9ccb944299898f8d367">was rejected&nbsp;</a>by the GOP-controlled State Board of Education on a 5-5 vote.

A law enacted in June required the state board’s approval of an order keeping school buildings closed and allowed counties to opt out of other Kelly health orders. Schmidt said that law allows counties to opt out of Kelly’s order on masks in schools.

Schmidt said the state constitution grants school districts the power to opt out as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595279892769.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly arrived wearing a mask at her Monday news conference" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly arrived wearing a mask at her Monday news conference</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ Republican attorney general said Thursday that he believes both counties and local school districts can exempt themselves from the Democratic governor’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d03755cc88648b0c2c2a275f1e9b1747">coronavirus-inspired order</a>&nbsp;requiring schools to have staff and students wear masks.Gov. Laura Kelly replied in a scathing statement that Attorney General Derek Schmidt is wrong and that he and fellow Republicans have “only created more hurdles and uncertainty” during the pandemic. Schmidt’s comments in an Associated Press interview represented the latest instance in which a Republican has undercut an action by Kelly aimed at curbing the spread of the new coronavirus.Republican officials and conservatives outside government have argued that it’s inappropriate for Kelly to impose “one-size fits all” measures— and hurt the economy— while the rate of reported new coronavirus cases varies widely across the state. Kelly has pointed to a coronavirus resurgence in recent weeks that has pushed the total confirmed cases past 24,000 and COVID-19-related deaths past 300.The Republican-controlled Legislature successfully pressured Kelly to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a5e30a0ec7a5943ada9f03af22ee1970">lift statewide restrictions</a>&nbsp;on businesses and public gatherings on May 26, and the GOP-dominated State Board of Education on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6a64799654f6a9ccb944299898f8d367">blocked Kelly’s plan</a>&nbsp;to delay the reopening of K-12 schools for three weeks, from mid-August until after Labor Day. Decisions on business restrictions are left to counties while local boards of education are to determine school reopenings.Kelly issued her&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/EO-20-59-PDF.pdf" target="_blank">masks-in-schools order</a>&nbsp;Monday, imposing rules for public and private schools that are stricter than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.org/Teaching-Learning/Resources/Navigating-Change-Kansas-Guide-to-Learning-and-School-Safety-Operations" target="_blank">guidelines</a>&nbsp;set by the State Board of Education. It also would require schools to do daily checks for fever on all staff and students.“It’s odd position that the administration has taken that their order is somehow is not subject to county opt-out the way all their other orders are,” Schmidt said. “Local school districts have the constitutional authority to opt out.”The attorney general added that he’s had conversations with local officials who have raised the issue of whether they can opt out of Kelly’s order. Schmidt said he told the governor’s office of his legal opinion before Kelly issued the order.“His comments further demonstrate that he and Republican leadership have abdicated their duty to serve the people of Kansas during the worst public health crisis in a century — and instead, put the burden back on local communities,” Kelly told AP in response to Schmidt’s stance.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020s/b2020s/measures/documents/summary_hb_2016_2020special" target="_blank">A law&nbsp;</a>enacted last month as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/56291b90279c36bafb21087cdc845c8a">a compromise</a>&nbsp;between the Democratic governor and GOP lawmakers allows the state’s 105 counties to opt out of Kelly’s health orders, such as one she issued July 2 to require people to wear masks in public and at their workplaces. Schmidt said that law applies to the masks-in-schools order.Kelly said Monday that it doesn’t because it involves the state’s 286 local school districts, which operate independently of counties under local elected school boards.The same law required the State Board of Education’s approval of Kelly’s plan to delay the start of fall K-12 classes or to close school buildings. Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8e5672095558ab92d7505f2a06f9a9b9">ordered K-12 school buildings closed</a>&nbsp;in mid-March for the rest of the previous school year, drawing criticism from conservative GOP lawmakers.The law doesn’t give the state board any authority to reject other Kelly orders, but Schmidt said Kansas law gives local districts “home rule” powers to manage their own affairs. And&nbsp;<a href="https://kslib.info/832/Article-6-Education" target="_blank">the state constitution&nbsp;</a>says local public schools “shall be maintained, developed and operated by locally elected boards.”“I worry this is going needlessly become another flare-up,” Schmidt said.Senate President Susan Wagle, a conservative Wichita Republican frequently critical of Kelly’s handling of the pandemic, said legislators wrote last month’s law “to ensure local control over these decisions.”“The law is what the law is, and it has to be followed or it has to be changed,” Schmidt said. “It can’t simply be ignored.”-------TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said Thursday that he believes both counties and local school districts can exempt themselves from Gov. Laura Kelly’s coronavirus-inspired order requiring schools to have staff and students wear masks.The Republican attorney general said during an Associated Press interview that he told the Democratic governor’s office his opinion before Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d03755cc88648b0c2c2a275f1e9b1747">issued the order&nbsp;</a>Monday. The order also requires daily temperature checks for staff and students.Kelly has said neither counties nor local school districts can opt out, unlike an order she issued July 2 to require people to wear masks in public places.Schmidt’s comments came a day after a plan from Kelly to delay the reopening of public and private K-12 schools from mid-August until after Labor Day&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6a64799654f6a9ccb944299898f8d367">was rejected&nbsp;</a>by the GOP-controlled State Board of Education on a 5-5 vote.A law enacted in June required the state board’s approval of an order keeping school buildings closed and allowed counties to opt out of other Kelly health orders. Schmidt said that law allows counties to opt out of Kelly’s order on masks in schools.Schmidt said the state constitution grants school districts the power to opt out as well.___

Update: Kan. AG: Local officials can opt out of school mask order

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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. — Some changes are coming to the Hutchinson Mall. From now on, the mall will be known as Uptown Hutch. It’s a rebranding that openers RockStep Capital is doing to all of their shopping complexes. 

“We had been contemplating changing the name of Hutch Mall for quite a while because the word mall is so out of favor in the last three to five years,” President Andy Weiner said. “That combined with the fact that these properties like Uptown Hutch . . . are transforming themselves  into something that is not 100% retail.”

Weiner, whose company has owned the facility since 2014, says the change in philosophy may be paying off because interest in acquiring space at the facility is growing.

“We have two users who will take the entire JCPenney space, and will be open sometime next year,” Weiner said. “The former Goody’s space, we have a national user who has raised their hand for that space. In addition, between the former Goody’s space and the former Dillard’s space we have one, maybe two national users who want to be in that space.”

Weiner says combining all of those prospects could bring as many as 100 new jobs to Hutchinson. RockStep used incentive packages to bring new businesses to the complex when they first opened, including Harbor Freight Tools and Dunham’s Sports. Weiner said other new incentive packages are now available at Uptown Hutch.

“The first phase started about six weeks ago which was free rent and cheap rent for those people who wanted to start a new business and use Uptown Hutch as its new location,” Weiner said. “We started a new program where we are willing to fund up to $2,000 of working capital opening funds to help great new business ideas  start in Hutch.”

Weiner says RockStep is taking the opportunity during the pandemic to use the incentives to get business up and going again whether it be new or an existing business relocating. He feels they have the package to make that happen.

“We really believe we have a role in helping young businesses, new businesses open up. And we look forward to working with them over at Uptown Hutch,” Weiner said. “They can be retail, it can be office, it could be storage, it could be E-commerce fulfillment, it could be light manufacturing. And I know we will be the lowest cost provider for commercial space within the entire region.”

Weiner said he will be able to release more information on the spaces spoken for in the next 60 to 90 days.

One retail business recently came back to the Uptown Hutch as Christopher and Banks recently held their grand opening. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595534475214.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Some changes are coming to the Hutchinson Mall. From now on, the mall will be known as Uptown Hutch. It’s a rebranding that openers RockStep Capital is doing to all of their shopping complexes. “We had been contemplating changing the name of Hutch Mall for quite a while because the word mall is so out of favor in the last three to five years,” President Andy Weiner said. “That combined with the fact that these properties like Uptown Hutch . . . are transforming themselves into something that is not 100% retail.”Weiner, whose company has owned the facility since 2014, says the change in philosophy may be paying off because interest in acquiring space at the facility is growing.“We have two users who will take the entire JCPenney space, and will be open sometime next year,” Weiner said. “The former Goody’s space, we have a national user who has raised their hand for that space. In addition, between the former Goody’s space and the former Dillard’s space we have one, maybe two national users who want to be in that space.”Weiner says combining all of those prospects could bring as many as 100 new jobs to Hutchinson. RockStep used incentive packages to bring new businesses to the complex when they first opened, including Harbor Freight Tools and Dunham’s Sports. Weiner said other new incentive packages are now available at Uptown Hutch.“The first phase started about six weeks ago which was free rent and cheap rent for those people who wanted to start a new business and use Uptown Hutch as its new location,” Weiner said. “We started a new program where we are willing to fund up to $2,000 of working capital opening funds to help great new business ideas start in Hutch.”Weiner says RockStep is taking the opportunity during the pandemic to use the incentives to get business up and going again whether it be new or an existing business relocating. He feels they have the package to make that happen.“We really believe we have a role in helping young businesses, new businesses open up. And we look forward to working with them over at Uptown Hutch,” Weiner said. “They can be retail, it can be office, it could be storage, it could be E-commerce fulfillment, it could be light manufacturing. And I know we will be the lowest cost provider for commercial space within the entire region.”Weiner said he will be able to release more information on the spaces spoken for in the next 60 to 90 days.One retail business recently came back to the Uptown Hutch as Christopher and Banks recently held their grand opening.

Hutchinson Mall getting a new name and a new mission

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson woman who entered pleas to five different drug-related charges was sentenced Thursday morning in Reno County District Court to nearly 13 years in prison.&nbsp;

Forty-six-year-old Jenni Wallace entered guilty pleas to possession of meth with intent to sell, conspiracy, and two additional counts of possession of meth with intent to distribute. She was also convicted of aggravated child endangerment. A count of possession of heroin was dismissed. It's the second time the sentencing has been continued.&nbsp;

Wallace was also sentenced to 11 years for conspiracy, a total of 16 years for two counts of drug distribution and one year for possession of drug paraphernalia. All sentences will run concurrently.&nbsp;

Wallace may also face federal charges stemming from another drug case in which a package containing six pounds of meth was intercepted by authorities at a Wichita post office. The package was addressed to her from Nevada and was detected by a K-9 unit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595523486892.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson woman who entered pleas to five different drug-related charges was sentenced Thursday morning in Reno County District Court to nearly 13 years in prison.&nbsp;Forty-six-year-old Jenni Wallace entered guilty pleas to possession of meth with intent to sell, conspiracy, and two additional counts of possession of meth with intent to distribute. She was also convicted of aggravated child endangerment. A count of possession of heroin was dismissed. It's the second time the sentencing has been continued.&nbsp;Wallace was also sentenced to 11 years for conspiracy, a total of 16 years for two counts of drug distribution and one year for possession of drug paraphernalia. All sentences will run concurrently.&nbsp;Wallace may also face federal charges stemming from another drug case in which a package containing six pounds of meth was intercepted by authorities at a Wichita post office. The package was addressed to her from Nevada and was detected by a K-9 unit.

Hutchinson woman given 13-year sentence in drug case


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;It's important to note that no matter what local school boards decide with regard to the start date of school in their individual districts, they will be doing it with masks. That Executive Order was not up for debate Wednesday.

"The Governor had two Executive Orders," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards. "One on the start date, which the State Board had to approve in order for it to take effect. They didn't, so it doesn't take effect. Her other order deals with face coverings, social distancing, hand sanitizers and temperature checks, that was not subject to State Board approval. That is supposed to take effect starting August 10th."

With that in mind, some districts may delay because they don't have the supplies for the second order, even though the first one isn't going into effect, but that's not the only reason they may delay.

"I think we've probably heard more concern about maybe training, professional development for teachers and others getting things in place than necessarily the issues of supplies," Tallman said. "I think many districts did assume something like this was what they were going to be doing. We may start hearing more of that."

This raises its own questions when we start talking about what particularly hourly hand washing will look like on a daily basis.

"How do you actually enforce this?", Tallman asked. "This would basically be putting out something that says, this is what you are supposed to do. I think people would understand, it really becomes a kind of goal. It's simply, I don't believe, practical, that someone is going to monitor every class, watch every student, document every hour that this is done, but I think the idea is to say, there's a lot of evidence this would help and so this becomes what the expectation is."

Local districts will be meeting in the coming days to define their individual strategies for school starting this fall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;It's important to note that no matter what local school boards decide with regard to the start date of school in their individual districts, they will be doing it with masks. That Executive Order was not up for debate Wednesday."The Governor had two Executive Orders," said Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards. "One on the start date, which the State Board had to approve in order for it to take effect. They didn't, so it doesn't take effect. Her other order deals with face coverings, social distancing, hand sanitizers and temperature checks, that was not subject to State Board approval. That is supposed to take effect starting August 10th."With that in mind, some districts may delay because they don't have the supplies for the second order, even though the first one isn't going into effect, but that's not the only reason they may delay."I think we've probably heard more concern about maybe training, professional development for teachers and others getting things in place than necessarily the issues of supplies," Tallman said. "I think many districts did assume something like this was what they were going to be doing. We may start hearing more of that."This raises its own questions when we start talking about what particularly hourly hand washing will look like on a daily basis."How do you actually enforce this?", Tallman asked. "This would basically be putting out something that says, this is what you are supposed to do. I think people would understand, it really becomes a kind of goal. It's simply, I don't believe, practical, that someone is going to monitor every class, watch every student, document every hour that this is done, but I think the idea is to say, there's a lot of evidence this would help and so this becomes what the expectation is."Local districts will be meeting in the coming days to define their individual strategies for school starting this fall.

Tallman: Remember masks, temps, hand sanitizing still in effect this fall

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It wasn’t as bad a predicted but the pandemic still took a large bite out of Union Pacific’s second quarter earnings which were released before the bell Thursday.&nbsp;

The nation’s largest railroad reported net income of $1.1 billion, or $1.67 per diluted share compared to $1.6 billion, or $2.22 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2019.

Operating revenue was $4.2 billion, down 24 percent in the second quarter. Carloads decreased by 20% and freight revenue fell by 24%. All were attributed to the slowdown in the economy due to the pandemic.

Union Pacific operates an average of 25 trains per day in Reno County and caries a total valuation in the county of more than $7.5-million.&nbsp;

The earnings session continues for local companies when Siemens/ Gamesa and ADM release their earnings numbers on July 30.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585950044294.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It wasn’t as bad a predicted but the pandemic still took a large bite out of Union Pacific’s second quarter earnings which were released before the bell Thursday.&nbsp;The nation’s largest railroad reported net income of $1.1 billion, or $1.67 per diluted share compared to $1.6 billion, or $2.22 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2019.Operating revenue was $4.2 billion, down 24 percent in the second quarter. Carloads decreased by 20% and freight revenue fell by 24%. All were attributed to the slowdown in the economy due to the pandemic.Union Pacific operates an average of 25 trains per day in Reno County and caries a total valuation in the county of more than $7.5-million.&nbsp;The earnings session continues for local companies when Siemens/ Gamesa and ADM release their earnings numbers on July 30.

Union Pacific numbers down in the second quarter

HAVEN, Kan. — Another local festival has announced they will cancel this year's event due to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The Haven Chamber of Commerce and the Haven Fall Festival Committee announced that the Haven Fall Festival that was planned for October 9-11 has been canceled.

The committee said that given the events and vendors they host each year, they would be unable to guarantee physical distancing during the festival. The statement went on to say that the health and safety of the community and committee members continue to be a top priority.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595517185120.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — Another local festival has announced they will cancel this year's event due to the pandemic.&nbsp;The Haven Chamber of Commerce and the Haven Fall Festival Committee announced that the Haven Fall Festival that was planned for October 9-11 has been canceled.The committee said that given the events and vendors they host each year, they would be unable to guarantee physical distancing during the festival. The statement went on to say that the health and safety of the community and committee members continue to be a top priority.&nbsp;The festival will return in 2021.

Haven Fall Festival canceled for 2020


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senate candidate Kris Kobach says ads attacking him are doing so because he's ahead in the Republican primary, though he acknowledges the race is close with Congressman Roger Marshall.

"Some of the ads that people are hearing, the really nasty ones about me are being run by a group out of Washington D.C. that has connections to Mitch McConnell," Kobach said. "They don't want a conservative, someone who is not going to back down. People who know me know that I don't compromise with the left. Mitch McConnell wants a yes man."

As a former Constitutional law professor, Kobach sees his role in advice and consent on judicial nominees as his first job.

"Job one is getting more originalist judges on the Supreme Court and on the lower federal courts," Kobach said. "We've got way too many activists who are trying to change our laws and change our Constitution. If we have originalist justices and judges, then we will have better protection for our Second Amendment, we will be able to overturn Roe v. Wade and better protect the right to life."

Immigration policy may have been seen as a race issue in previous campaigns, but in a pandemic, it's a safety issue.

"The coronavirus has made crystal clear that the first thing a country needs to do, if there is a global pandemic, is control who enters the country," Kobach said. "President Trump, correctly, shut the front door immediately by closing down our ports of entry to people coming in from China and then later from Europe. The back door is wide open because Congress had never given him sufficient money early enough to get the wall completed in time, so we had 300 miles less of wall than we would have if Congress had acted quickly to close that back door."

Kobach is one of eleven candidates vying for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate. The primary is August 4.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582891209105.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senate candidate Kris Kobach says ads attacking him are doing so because he's ahead in the Republican primary, though he acknowledges the race is close with Congressman Roger Marshall."Some of the ads that people are hearing, the really nasty ones about me are being run by a group out of Washington D.C. that has connections to Mitch McConnell," Kobach said. "They don't want a conservative, someone who is not going to back down. People who know me know that I don't compromise with the left. Mitch McConnell wants a yes man."As a former Constitutional law professor, Kobach sees his role in advice and consent on judicial nominees as his first job."Job one is getting more originalist judges on the Supreme Court and on the lower federal courts," Kobach said. "We've got way too many activists who are trying to change our laws and change our Constitution. If we have originalist justices and judges, then we will have better protection for our Second Amendment, we will be able to overturn Roe v. Wade and better protect the right to life."Immigration policy may have been seen as a race issue in previous campaigns, but in a pandemic, it's a safety issue."The coronavirus has made crystal clear that the first thing a country needs to do, if there is a global pandemic, is control who enters the country," Kobach said. "President Trump, correctly, shut the front door immediately by closing down our ports of entry to people coming in from China and then later from Europe. The back door is wide open because Congress had never given him sufficient money early enough to get the wall completed in time, so we had 300 miles less of wall than we would have if Congress had acted quickly to close that back door."Kobach is one of eleven candidates vying for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate. The primary is August 4.

Kobach not a yes man, sees advice and consent and immigration as important issues


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County's Boy Scouts are picking up where the letter carriers were unable to this year to help out the Reno County Food Bank.

"An extra five or six cans is going to make a whole world of difference," said Angela Fabian with the food drive. "Usually, the Post Office, when they do their food drive brings over 20,000 pounds of food and the food bank is missing that right now. What we need to do our part is to actually give in and help out and just drop off some of those items there when we have those drop off sites."

You can drop off food between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday the 25th at Dillons Marketplace at 3200 East Plaza Drive at Walmart at 1905 East 17th, the Eastwood Church of Christ at 2500 North Plum and the Park Place Church at 2600 North Adams. The drive is looking for much more than just canned goods.

"Peanut Butter, canned chicken, tuna, any kind of pasta, meals in one like hamburger or tuna helper, mac and cheese kits, canned meat, crackers, instant mashed potatoes, nuts, rice, cereal, powdered milk. Any of those things would be great."

Between the heat and a desire to limit physical contact, you may not see many kids manning the tables, but there will be obvious places to put your donations on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595511162064.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County's Boy Scouts are picking up where the letter carriers were unable to this year to help out the Reno County Food Bank."An extra five or six cans is going to make a whole world of difference," said Angela Fabian with the food drive. "Usually, the Post Office, when they do their food drive brings over 20,000 pounds of food and the food bank is missing that right now. What we need to do our part is to actually give in and help out and just drop off some of those items there when we have those drop off sites."You can drop off food between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday the 25th at Dillons Marketplace at 3200 East Plaza Drive at Walmart at 1905 East 17th, the Eastwood Church of Christ at 2500 North Plum and the Park Place Church at 2600 North Adams. The drive is looking for much more than just canned goods."Peanut Butter, canned chicken, tuna, any kind of pasta, meals in one like hamburger or tuna helper, mac and cheese kits, canned meat, crackers, instant mashed potatoes, nuts, rice, cereal, powdered milk. Any of those things would be great."Between the heat and a desire to limit physical contact, you may not see many kids manning the tables, but there will be obvious places to put your donations on Saturday.

Food drive coming up Saturday in Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department confirms that a local resident with COVID-19 died on July 22, 2020 while hospitalized in Hutchinson.

Out of respect and privacy for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information regarding this patient.

One hundred and thirty-five previously confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Reno County have recovered from their illness and are no longer considered contagious per disease investigation guidelines furnished by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. 

There are thirty-two active cases that are being investigated to establish isolation requirements and identify close contacts so that appropriate quarantine requirements can be implemented.

Currently Reno County has ran 3,854 tests with 3,687 negatives for a positive case rate of 4.33%. A total of 6.13% of Reno County has been tested thus far.

Continue good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, wearing a mask when going out in public, limiting handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department confirms that a local resident with COVID-19 died on July 22, 2020 while hospitalized in Hutchinson.Out of respect and privacy for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information regarding this patient.One hundred and thirty-five previously confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Reno County have recovered from their illness and are no longer considered contagious per disease investigation guidelines furnished by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. There are thirty-two active cases that are being investigated to establish isolation requirements and identify close contacts so that appropriate quarantine requirements can be implemented.Currently Reno County has ran 3,854 tests with 3,687 negatives for a positive case rate of 4.33%. A total of 6.13% of Reno County has been tested thus far.Continue good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, wearing a mask when going out in public, limiting handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

Reno County announces first death attributable to COVID-19 Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If there are concerns about voting in person in the approaching primary election, it’s not showing up yet at the Reno County Clerk's Office.&nbsp;

Deputy Elections Clerk Jenna Fager says that, since advance voting started, nearly 500 people have come into the annex in person to vote ahead of the August primary. The office also mailed out nearly 5,700 absentee ballots this summer.

Advance voting takes place until noon on Aug. 3. All absentee and mailed out ballots need to be turned into the clerk's office by 7 p.m. on election day or be postmarked on or before Aug. 4.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579691082543.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If there are concerns about voting in person in the approaching primary election, it’s not showing up yet at the Reno County Clerk's Office.&nbsp;Deputy Elections Clerk Jenna Fager says that, since advance voting started, nearly 500 people have come into the annex in person to vote ahead of the August primary. The office also mailed out nearly 5,700 absentee ballots this summer.Advance voting takes place until noon on Aug. 3. All absentee and mailed out ballots need to be turned into the clerk's office by 7 p.m. on election day or be postmarked on or before Aug. 4.

Advance voting off to strong start

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre announced Tuesday that the One Night In Memphis performance has been rescheduled for Saturday, March 20 at 7:30. The performance was one of many postponed due to the pandemic.

If you have already purchased tickets for this event, hold on to them as they will be valid for the rescheduled date. If you opt not to keep your current tickets for the new date, you may contact the box office for a full refund by calling 620-663-1981 or e-mailing thefox@hutchinsonfox.com. Please include your full name as it appears on your ticket order and, if possible, your order number.

Recent credit card orders will be refunded back to the card. Other credit card orders and all orders paid via cash or check will be refunded via company check from the Fox Theatre and mailed to the billing address on file.&nbsp;

Up-to-date status for all other Fox events can be found at <a href="http://hutchinsonfox.com">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584641013194.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre announced Tuesday that the One Night In Memphis performance has been rescheduled for Saturday, March 20 at 7:30. The performance was one of many postponed due to the pandemic.If you have already purchased tickets for this event, hold on to them as they will be valid for the rescheduled date. If you opt not to keep your current tickets for the new date, you may contact the box office for a full refund by calling 620-663-1981 or e-mailing thefox@hutchinsonfox.com. Please include your full name as it appears on your ticket order and, if possible, your order number.Recent credit card orders will be refunded back to the card. Other credit card orders and all orders paid via cash or check will be refunded via company check from the Fox Theatre and mailed to the billing address on file.&nbsp;Up-to-date status for all other Fox events can be found at <a href="http://hutchinsonfox.com">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a>.

Fox announces new date for One Night In Memphis


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Kansas State Board of Education voted on Wednesday morning deadlocked 5-5 not to allow Governor Laura Kelly to delay the opening of schools until after Labor Day. Board member Ben Jones of Sterling notes that are still several hurdles for districts to start school, but he didn't want to see a one size fits all solution.

"The timeline to achieve this is much different for different districts," Jones said. "Smaller districts can do this in a quicker way as they have smaller staff and a smaller area to cover in terms of personnel." 

Jones also is concerned that this would set a precedent for centralized control over the school year that he believes the board had been trying to avoid.

"We will address the closures, not statewide, but by area, where they are spiking," Jones said. "It will be different times in different places. COVID-19 is real. It is not fake. I have discussed this with survivors of COVID-19. But, I urge my colleagues, and listening to the many, many varied opinions from my district, I believe that the right thing to do is to turn down the executive order and to give local districts the time to operate within their own timelines."

It now falls to the local school boards to decide whether or not they will change their opening dates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592929033779.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Kansas State Board of Education voted on Wednesday morning deadlocked 5-5 not to allow Governor Laura Kelly to delay the opening of schools until after Labor Day. Board member Ben Jones of Sterling notes that are still several hurdles for districts to start school, but he didn't want to see a one size fits all solution."The timeline to achieve this is much different for different districts," Jones said. "Smaller districts can do this in a quicker way as they have smaller staff and a smaller area to cover in terms of personnel." Jones also is concerned that this would set a precedent for centralized control over the school year that he believes the board had been trying to avoid."We will address the closures, not statewide, but by area, where they are spiking," Jones said. "It will be different times in different places. COVID-19 is real. It is not fake. I have discussed this with survivors of COVID-19. But, I urge my colleagues, and listening to the many, many varied opinions from my district, I believe that the right thing to do is to turn down the executive order and to give local districts the time to operate within their own timelines."It now falls to the local school boards to decide whether or not they will change their opening dates.

Jones cites local control in vote to keep school schedule the same

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community Foundation awarded $25,560 to three area nonprofit organizations in its recent round of Fund for Hutchinson grants.

&nbsp;As previously announced, the Hutchinson Art Center is receiving $5,560 to bring a juried exhibition featuring artists of color to the community. The center wants to provide a space for unrepresented artists to showcase their work and the opportunity to be a part of the center’s permanent collection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 310 Fairfield is getting $10,000 that will help continue and enrich the district’s after-school program, emphasizing the social, emotional, mental and physical health of students as well as providing a safe location for students who have no one at home immediately following school.

And the Salthawk Community Support organization is receiving&nbsp; $10,000 per year for two years to support the ministry program of Trinity United Methodist Church. The goal of the program is to work together to remove barriers to education for students at Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School-8 by providing programming – such as mentoring, character-development activities and financial education – alongside offering basic-needs supplies.

Established in 1990, the Fund for Hutchinson serves as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County. More than $3.7 million have been awarded to more than 170 area organizations and agencies from the fund.

Proposals for the grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583769773124.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community Foundation awarded $25,560 to three area nonprofit organizations in its recent round of Fund for Hutchinson grants.&nbsp;As previously announced, the Hutchinson Art Center is receiving $5,560 to bring a juried exhibition featuring artists of color to the community. The center wants to provide a space for unrepresented artists to showcase their work and the opportunity to be a part of the center’s permanent collection.&nbsp;&nbsp;USD 310 Fairfield is getting $10,000 that will help continue and enrich the district’s after-school program, emphasizing the social, emotional, mental and physical health of students as well as providing a safe location for students who have no one at home immediately following school.And the Salthawk Community Support organization is receiving&nbsp; $10,000 per year for two years to support the ministry program of Trinity United Methodist Church. The goal of the program is to work together to remove barriers to education for students at Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School-8 by providing programming – such as mentoring, character-development activities and financial education – alongside offering basic-needs supplies.Established in 1990, the Fund for Hutchinson serves as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County. More than $3.7 million have been awarded to more than 170 area organizations and agencies from the fund.Proposals for the grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.

HCF awards three Fund for Hutchinson grants

NICKERSON, Kan. — Following a rash of vandalism in Nickerson last weekend, the City Council took time to address law enforcement in the community during Monday’s meeting.

The matter of bringing back a police department to the small community has been discussed off and on since the department was dissolved in the fall of 2012. The public then got a chance to speak their mind in a vote in 2013 which showed that many were not willing to pony up the funds needed for the department. Councilwoman Angela Richard noted that for even one officer the cost to the city would increase the budget by 25 mills or about $85,000.&nbsp;

Currently, the Reno County Sheriffs Department patrols the area. While many have been satisfied with that service having a large number of vehicles vandalized over the weekend did not sit well with residents. The SO has four deputies on patrol around the entire county at one time and response to calls can take some time depending on the situation.

City Clerk April Beshears said the Council discussed bringing back a citizens patrol group. Such a group existed before but slowly died out due to a lack of participation. Beshears also said some residents are reluctant to call law enforcement for things that can hinder enforcement efforts.

No action was taken during the meeting, but more discussion will likely be coming at future meetings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595434051511.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — Following a rash of vandalism in Nickerson last weekend, the City Council took time to address law enforcement in the community during Monday’s meeting.The matter of bringing back a police department to the small community has been discussed off and on since the department was dissolved in the fall of 2012. The public then got a chance to speak their mind in a vote in 2013 which showed that many were not willing to pony up the funds needed for the department. Councilwoman Angela Richard noted that for even one officer the cost to the city would increase the budget by 25 mills or about $85,000.&nbsp;Currently, the Reno County Sheriffs Department patrols the area. While many have been satisfied with that service having a large number of vehicles vandalized over the weekend did not sit well with residents. The SO has four deputies on patrol around the entire county at one time and response to calls can take some time depending on the situation.City Clerk April Beshears said the Council discussed bringing back a citizens patrol group. Such a group existed before but slowly died out due to a lack of participation. Beshears also said some residents are reluctant to call law enforcement for things that can hinder enforcement efforts.No action was taken during the meeting, but more discussion will likely be coming at future meetings.

Nickerson City Council discusses law enforcement

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

My 35th birthday is this week. Though some women beyond their 20s don’t like to share their age, I have no problem admitting it.

This birthday feels like the last of my “young person” milestones. I will legally be old enough to run for president of the United States of America.

The moment doesn’t have the same anticipation of independence that came with acquiring the ability to work, drive, vote or drink. It is an aged and mellow satisfaction, born of the knowledge that I have reached the point where the Founding Fathers believed an individual had enough life experience to be able to lead the country.

Like many children, I dreamed about what it would be like to hold the highest office in the land, but as an adult, the idea actually seems pretty undesirable.

The world of politics has become so divisive and cruel. It often feels like watching children in a schoolyard. There is name-calling, he-said she-said arguments, pouting when you don’t get your way, overreactions to perfectly normal disagreement, no filter of what is polite or helpful, and a strange occurrence where someone who isn’t like you becomes a monster.

During a campaign season, it seems to become even worse. Between vilifying TV commercials, stacks of hateful postcards and a barrage of social media ads about the alleged evils of candidates, you have to have strong armor to weather it all. And don’t think this is just at the federal level, I see it in local races too.

The craziest part of this is we do have people who answer the call to serve. In fact, I think most politicians are good people who feel compelled to serve and are trying to do what they think is best. These people endure harsh criticism and try their best to represent the interests of all their constituents, even the ones that just called them evil.

So, as the horrific election season rolls on, I want to say thank you to the individuals at all levels who have raised their hands and are vying to serve as elected officials. I appreciate your willingness to serve despite all the negatives, like experiencing criticism no matter how good you are at the job. My attitude of gratitude is a product of a deeply held belief that you are a person who wants to make the world better.

In addition to my heartfelt thanks, I offer a commitment to my fellow Americans who put themselves out there to serve: I will always do my best to be polite and treat you with respect, even if I disagree with you. I will listen openly to the information you share and be willing to provide my opinion and experiences with you in a civil manner. When you make a decision I don’t agree with, now or after being elected, I will do my best to temper my disappointment and seek to understand how you arrived at your conclusion. Most importantly, I will continue to look for the best in you not the worst.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584374831676.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancherMy 35th birthday is this week. Though some women beyond their 20s don’t like to share their age, I have no problem admitting it.This birthday feels like the last of my “young person” milestones. I will legally be old enough to run for president of the United States of America.The moment doesn’t have the same anticipation of independence that came with acquiring the ability to work, drive, vote or drink. It is an aged and mellow satisfaction, born of the knowledge that I have reached the point where the Founding Fathers believed an individual had enough life experience to be able to lead the country.Like many children, I dreamed about what it would be like to hold the highest office in the land, but as an adult, the idea actually seems pretty undesirable.The world of politics has become so divisive and cruel. It often feels like watching children in a schoolyard. There is name-calling, he-said she-said arguments, pouting when you don’t get your way, overreactions to perfectly normal disagreement, no filter of what is polite or helpful, and a strange occurrence where someone who isn’t like you becomes a monster.During a campaign season, it seems to become even worse. Between vilifying TV commercials, stacks of hateful postcards and a barrage of social media ads about the alleged evils of candidates, you have to have strong armor to weather it all. And don’t think this is just at the federal level, I see it in local races too.The craziest part of this is we do have people who answer the call to serve. In fact, I think most politicians are good people who feel compelled to serve and are trying to do what they think is best. These people endure harsh criticism and try their best to represent the interests of all their constituents, even the ones that just called them evil.So, as the horrific election season rolls on, I want to say thank you to the individuals at all levels who have raised their hands and are vying to serve as elected officials. I appreciate your willingness to serve despite all the negatives, like experiencing criticism no matter how good you are at the job. My attitude of gratitude is a product of a deeply held belief that you are a person who wants to make the world better.In addition to my heartfelt thanks, I offer a commitment to my fellow Americans who put themselves out there to serve: I will always do my best to be polite and treat you with respect, even if I disagree with you. I will listen openly to the information you share and be willing to provide my opinion and experiences with you in a civil manner. When you make a decision I don’t agree with, now or after being elected, I will do my best to temper my disappointment and seek to understand how you arrived at your conclusion. Most importantly, I will continue to look for the best in you not the worst."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Keeping Perspective In Politics


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall received the endorsement of the man who holds the office he wants to hold next, U.S. Senator Pat Roberts on Tuesday.

"My wife and I have had just a great relationship with Senator Roberts and his wife, Franki," Marshall said. "They've been such great mentors to us, friends, teachers. To have someone who knows you so well endorse you, I think, just means something special. There's a lot of work to be done yet, especially in agriculture. Senator Roberts has spent 40 years working for Kansans with a focus on agriculture. I think he believes we are the best person to continue that legacy."

Marshall notes that agriculture impacts the entire world, not just the farm.

"It's not just milking a cow and growing wheat," Marshall said. "There's trade involved. There's policy. Biofuels is a big opportunity for Kansas. Goodness, 40% of Kansas economy is driven by agriculture. It's way more than just what's happening on the farm. There's conservation issues and ecology issues. Agriculture just touches the entire country. We're so blessed to have this. We're only spending like eight or nine percent of our budgets on food, so we're kind of taken for granted, but this COVID has really brought it out. There's plenty of opportunities to make sure that this country has safe, affordable groceries."

Marshall is one of eleven Republicans in the August 4 primary.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall received the endorsement of the man who holds the office he wants to hold next, U.S. Senator Pat Roberts on Tuesday."My wife and I have had just a great relationship with Senator Roberts and his wife, Franki," Marshall said. "They've been such great mentors to us, friends, teachers. To have someone who knows you so well endorse you, I think, just means something special. There's a lot of work to be done yet, especially in agriculture. Senator Roberts has spent 40 years working for Kansans with a focus on agriculture. I think he believes we are the best person to continue that legacy."Marshall notes that agriculture impacts the entire world, not just the farm."It's not just milking a cow and growing wheat," Marshall said. "There's trade involved. There's policy. Biofuels is a big opportunity for Kansas. Goodness, 40% of Kansas economy is driven by agriculture. It's way more than just what's happening on the farm. There's conservation issues and ecology issues. Agriculture just touches the entire country. We're so blessed to have this. We're only spending like eight or nine percent of our budgets on food, so we're kind of taken for granted, but this COVID has really brought it out. There's plenty of opportunities to make sure that this country has safe, affordable groceries."Marshall is one of eleven Republicans in the August 4 primary.