
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce held their legislative forum Saturday morning at the Fox Theatre in Hutchinson. Representatives Jason Probst, Paul Waggoner and Joe Seiwert were able to attend. The forum touched on multiple topics, but the struggles of the state Department of Labor probably took up the most time. 

Representative Probst said the scope of the fraud problem is still unknown.

"The truth is, nobody actually knows, because we haven't been able to go case by case by case and figure out which one is fraud and which one is not," Probst said. "The underlying reason that we had so much fraud, keep in mind, I think the last report is, there's about $64 billion across the country that's been suspected fraud, about half of which they think has made its way overseas. These antiquated systems are not very adaptable to identity theft or fraud that we're seeing on a mass scale right now."

Probst said he was told the system is a 1977 relic that still uses COBOL programming language. 

Paul Waggoner echoed comments he had made <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/f3a8b038-64cf-4f59-88d3-c8a0d72cc552">earlier in the session to Hutch Post about the open-ended nature of the federal program</a> that allowed fraudsters to use the loopholes they have.

"Typically, when you file for unemployment, there is a letter that goes to your employer to confirm who you are, that you worked for them and the reason you were let go," Waggoner said. "What happened this time around was, the federal pandemic unemployment assistance covered people who don't have employers. If you were a hairdresser and had your own shop or if you had your own one person contractor business, because the federal government was effectively forcing you out of work, they set up the system where you could get unemployment, which in one sense makes a lot of sense, but the problem was, there was no one to verify anything about you."

Representative Seiwert is still searching for answers, too.

"There are a lot of questions on what happened, I can't answer them, because we can't get answers when we've tried," Seiwert said. "We've met with the people on Appropriations and also with Commerce committee and he's been working on this real hard. What the failure was, I don't know. I can't imagine who was not checking the checking account to see how you could dole out millions of dollars and not realize it. Being a business person and writing checks for myself, I look at my account every so often."

Seiwert did praise KDOL for getting legislators a way to help their constituents, but he's tired of making excuses and wants to be sure they can solve the problem going forward.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce held their legislative forum Saturday morning at the Fox Theatre in Hutchinson. Representatives Jason Probst, Paul Waggoner and Joe Seiwert were able to attend. The forum touched on multiple topics, but the struggles of the state Department of Labor probably took up the most time. Representative Probst said the scope of the fraud problem is still unknown."The truth is, nobody actually knows, because we haven't been able to go case by case by case and figure out which one is fraud and which one is not," Probst said. "The underlying reason that we had so much fraud, keep in mind, I think the last report is, there's about $64 billion across the country that's been suspected fraud, about half of which they think has made its way overseas. These antiquated systems are not very adaptable to identity theft or fraud that we're seeing on a mass scale right now."Probst said he was told the system is a 1977 relic that still uses COBOL programming language. Paul Waggoner echoed comments he had made <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/f3a8b038-64cf-4f59-88d3-c8a0d72cc552">earlier in the session to Hutch Post about the open-ended nature of the federal program</a> that allowed fraudsters to use the loopholes they have. "Typically, when you file for unemployment, there is a letter that goes to your employer to confirm who you are, that you worked for them and the reason you were let go," Waggoner said. "What happened this time around was, the federal pandemic unemployment assistance covered people who don't have employers. If you were a hairdresser and had your own shop or if you had your own one person contractor business, because the federal government was effectively forcing you out of work, they set up the system where you could get unemployment, which in one sense makes a lot of sense, but the problem was, there was no one to verify anything about you."Representative Seiwert is still searching for answers, too."There are a lot of questions on what happened, I can't answer them, because we can't get answers when we've tried," Seiwert said. "We've met with the people on Appropriations and also with Commerce committee and he's been working on this real hard. What the failure was, I don't know. I can't imagine who was not checking the checking account to see how you could dole out millions of dollars and not realize it. Being a business person and writing checks for myself, I look at my account every so often."Seiwert did praise KDOL for getting legislators a way to help their constituents, but he's tired of making excuses and wants to be sure they can solve the problem going forward.

Legislators address KDOL issues at Saturday forum

The Flood Watch continues for portions of central, south central, and southeast Kansas through Sunday afternoon.

Periods of showers and thunderstorms are expected for today and  will become more widespread by tonight, especially across central  and south central Kansas. The showers and storms will continue  into Sunday morning while moving slowly eastward. 

The rain could  be heavy at times across the region. Widespread rainfall amounts  of 1 to 3 inches with locally higher amounts are expected.

Flooding of low-land and flood prone areas are possible, along  with modest to significant rises on area rivers and streams.

You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615641696170.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Flood Watch continues for portions of central, south central, and southeast Kansas through Sunday afternoon.Periods of showers and thunderstorms are expected for today and will become more widespread by tonight, especially across central and south central Kansas. The showers and storms will continue into Sunday morning while moving slowly eastward. The rain could be heavy at times across the region. Widespread rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches with locally higher amounts are expected.Flooding of low-land and flood prone areas are possible, along with modest to significant rises on area rivers and streams.You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

Flood Watch continues

The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 80 as of Friday. 

Out of 7,727 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,510 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. 

One Reno County resident is in the hospital with COVID-19. There are still no cases as part of documented long-term care facility clusters.

Drive-thru testing is currently available at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 North Plum in Hutchinson.

The site is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit <a href="https://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612786086400.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 80 as of Friday. Out of 7,727 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,510 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. One Reno County resident is in the hospital with COVID-19. There are still no cases as part of documented long-term care facility clusters.Drive-thru testing is currently available at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 North Plum in Hutchinson.The site is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit <a href="https://www.gogettested.com/">www.gogettested.com</a>.

Case count down to 80, one person in hospital as of Friday

Monday vaccination clinic is full and some will get their stimulus check over the weekend, plus more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Monday vaccination clinic is full and some will get their stimulus check over the weekend, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="March 13, 2021 Saturday News" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ekvue-fd80d4?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

March 13, 2021 Saturday News

HUTCHINSON, Kan. – The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees opened its March meeting by addressing several matters of routine business before getting an update on its Strategic Planning initiatives.&nbsp;

In addition, the Board took action on tuition and fees for the 2021-22 academic year. Tuition will increase by $2.00 per credit hour with no increase in fees. With approval, in-state tuition will increase to $95 per credit hour, out of state students will be charged $123 per credit hour and international students will now be charged $135 per credit hour.

The Board anticipates there may be federal aid to help students offset the cost of this tuition increase. The Board also received its annual audit of its financial statements from independent auditor Swindoll Janzen Hawk &amp; Loyd. The College again received an unqualified opinion.

The next meeting of the board will be on Thursday, April 8 at 7 p.m. in the Shears&nbsp; Technology Center Justice Theater. The public is invited to attend. 

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581541933395.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. – The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees opened its March meeting by addressing several matters of routine business before getting an update on its Strategic Planning initiatives.&nbsp;In addition, the Board took action on tuition and fees for the 2021-22 academic year. Tuition will increase by $2.00 per credit hour with no increase in fees. With approval, in-state tuition will increase to $95 per credit hour, out of state students will be charged $123 per credit hour and international students will now be charged $135 per credit hour.The Board anticipates there may be federal aid to help students offset the cost of this tuition increase. The Board also received its annual audit of its financial statements from independent auditor Swindoll Janzen Hawk &amp; Loyd. The College again received an unqualified opinion.The next meeting of the board will be on Thursday, April 8 at 7 p.m. in the Shears&nbsp; Technology Center Justice Theater. The public is invited to attend. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update&nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC BOT approves tuition increase

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is that time of the year again, daylight saving time is upon us this weekend. The one hour jump ahead is met with both positive and negative reactions each year. The downside is the one hour of sleep that you lose, especially for those who wake up early. The change leaves most with a form of jet lag for the first few weeks of the change over.

The upside is that the sun now stays up longer in the evening. That's beneficial for many high school and college spring sports, especially golf and track. It also allows more people to enjoy outdoor activities after work including golfing, walking, and cycling.&nbsp;

Ways to beat the lag from the change-over include: spending more time outdoors, getting exercise and slowly adjusting your sleep patterns to accommodate the change.

It also helps to get to bed at the same time each night regardless of how you feel, and practice good habits before bedtime like finding ways to slow down. If there were no daylight saving time in the central US, the sun would come up around 5:30 a.m. during the longest days and set around 7:30 p.m.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is that time of the year again, daylight saving time is upon us this weekend. The one hour jump ahead is met with both positive and negative reactions each year. The downside is the one hour of sleep that you lose, especially for those who wake up early. The change leaves most with a form of jet lag for the first few weeks of the change over.The upside is that the sun now stays up longer in the evening. That's beneficial for many high school and college spring sports, especially golf and track. It also allows more people to enjoy outdoor activities after work including golfing, walking, and cycling.&nbsp;Ways to beat the lag from the change-over include: spending more time outdoors, getting exercise and slowly adjusting your sleep patterns to accommodate the change.It also helps to get to bed at the same time each night regardless of how you feel, and practice good habits before bedtime like finding ways to slow down. If there were no daylight saving time in the central US, the sun would come up around 5:30 a.m. during the longest days and set around 7:30 p.m.

Time to spring forward Saturday night

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 School Board will hold a special meeting on Monday evening.&nbsp;

The Board will go into executive session to discuss the finalists for the open position of Director of Communications. The district is looking to replace Ray Hemman who will retire at the end of the school year.&nbsp;

According to Executive Director of Human Resources Rick Kraus, three people were interviewed&nbsp; for the job on Friday and the hope is to offer one of those three the position during that meeting.

Monday’s meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Career and Technical Education Academy at 800 15th Circle.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="USD 308 resized.jpg" />
 <figcaption>USD 308 resized.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 School Board will hold a special meeting on Monday evening.&nbsp;The Board will go into executive session to discuss the finalists for the open position of Director of Communications. The district is looking to replace Ray Hemman who will retire at the end of the school year.&nbsp;According to Executive Director of Human Resources Rick Kraus, three people were interviewed&nbsp; for the job on Friday and the hope is to offer one of those three the position during that meeting.Monday’s meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Career and Technical Education Academy at 800 15th Circle.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 308 to hold special meeting on Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The Reno County Health Department vaccine clinic scheduled for Monday, March 15 is now full.&nbsp;

The health Department reports that 1,100 doses will be administered at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. Reno County moved to Phase 2c this week, which includes High-Contact Critical Workers.

Starting Monday, March 22, the Health Department will be hosting a daily vaccine clinic at the Fellowship Hall of the First United Methodist Church,101 E. 1st Avenue. The clinic will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

If you are a worker providing critical services, and your job requires consistent and close contact with a large number of individuals, then you are a High-Contact Critical Worker and can schedule your appointment at this time. Appointments can be scheduled online at <a href="https://forms.renogov.org/rchd/covid19-registration/">https://forms.renogov.org/rchd/covid19-registration/</a>. If computer access is limited, please call the Health Department at 620-694-2900 and select option six.

Reno County will remain in Phase 2 until the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) gives approval to move to Phase 3. For more information about the vaccines, visit <a href="http://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19">www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614863461419.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The Reno County Health Department vaccine clinic scheduled for Monday, March 15 is now full.&nbsp;The health Department reports that 1,100 doses will be administered at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. Reno County moved to Phase 2c this week, which includes High-Contact Critical Workers.Starting Monday, March 22, the Health Department will be hosting a daily vaccine clinic at the Fellowship Hall of the First United Methodist Church,101 E. 1st Avenue. The clinic will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.If you are a worker providing critical services, and your job requires consistent and close contact with a large number of individuals, then you are a High-Contact Critical Worker and can schedule your appointment at this time. Appointments can be scheduled online at <a href="https://forms.renogov.org/rchd/covid19-registration/">https://forms.renogov.org/rchd/covid19-registration/</a>. If computer access is limited, please call the Health Department at 620-694-2900 and select option six.Reno County will remain in Phase 2 until the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) gives approval to move to Phase 3. For more information about the vaccines, visit <a href="http://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19">www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Vaccination clinic for Monday full


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Gas prices are still rising at least partially as a consequence from the cold snap earlier this year.

"Today, we're at $2.66 a gallon for the average in Kansas, which is up eight cents from a week ago," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's up 36 cents from a month ago, when we were at $2.30 a gallon."

The reason why is shutting down production at refineries isn't easy, and neither is starting it back up.

"Refinery utilization is extremely low," Steward said. "In fact, a week ago or so, it was an all-time low. We're still seeing the effects of some of the refinery shutdowns from the February storm and extreme cold. We're still looking to get a lot of those refineries back on line."

Reno County is doing okay relative to the rest of the state.

"Reno County is at $2.62 a gallon, which is four cents less than the state average," Steward said. "Kansas is 14th cheapest in the U.S. as of today."

It remains to be seen if getting back to normal production levels has a price dropping effect at the pump going forward.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579620767389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Gas prices are still rising at least partially as a consequence from the cold snap earlier this year."Today, we're at $2.66 a gallon for the average in Kansas, which is up eight cents from a week ago," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's up 36 cents from a month ago, when we were at $2.30 a gallon."The reason why is shutting down production at refineries isn't easy, and neither is starting it back up."Refinery utilization is extremely low," Steward said. "In fact, a week ago or so, it was an all-time low. We're still seeing the effects of some of the refinery shutdowns from the February storm and extreme cold. We're still looking to get a lot of those refineries back on line."Reno County is doing okay relative to the rest of the state."Reno County is at $2.62 a gallon, which is four cents less than the state average," Steward said. "Kansas is 14th cheapest in the U.S. as of today."It remains to be seen if getting back to normal production levels has a price dropping effect at the pump going forward.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gas prices continue to rise, AAA says


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As the Kansas Senate and House negotiate over language to change the state's emergency response statute, State Senator Dr. Mark Steffen notes the differences in the times from the days of the so-called Spanish Flu and polio to today.

"All our previous pandemic sort of laws were written in an era where people really looked at things through the lens of a servant leader and what was in the best interest of the individual and society," Steffen said. "We saw that thing veer off course and decisions made that blew up our schools, blew up our economy."

Steffen is looking at the statute with the intent of our founders in mind.

"There's a huge layer of our population that is incredibly engaged and concerned from a constitutional standpoint," Steffen said. "That's ultimately going to be the lens that I look at it through. What's constitutional? What doesn't violate individual rights?"

It remains to be seen what the final version of the bill will look like when he has a chance to vote on it again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611761226060.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As the Kansas Senate and House negotiate over language to change the state's emergency response statute, State Senator Dr. Mark Steffen notes the differences in the times from the days of the so-called Spanish Flu and polio to today."All our previous pandemic sort of laws were written in an era where people really looked at things through the lens of a servant leader and what was in the best interest of the individual and society," Steffen said. "We saw that thing veer off course and decisions made that blew up our schools, blew up our economy."Steffen is looking at the statute with the intent of our founders in mind."There's a huge layer of our population that is incredibly engaged and concerned from a constitutional standpoint," Steffen said. "That's ultimately going to be the lens that I look at it through. What's constitutional? What doesn't violate individual rights?"It remains to be seen what the final version of the bill will look like when he has a chance to vote on it again.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Steffen will look at emergency statute with Constitution in mind

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The ability to keep costs down offset lower revenue for BNSF as they released their fourth quarter earnings report this week.

The nation's second largest railroad reported total revenue of $5.6 billion a drop of 3%. Despite that net income increased by 5% to $ 41.4 billion. The pandemic and further declines in coal shipments continued to pressure the railroad. Coal shipments for the quarter dropped 21%. Most of that was offset by strong gains in ag and consumer products carloads. Total car volume for the quarter increased by 3% but still saw a 7% drop for the year, mostly due to the pandemic.

Despite all of the challenges, the railroad was able to trim operating expenses by 6% and by 15% for the year. BNSF also announced that they plan to spend nearly $3 billion track and equipment improvements this year including a large project in central Kansas that will help ease train congestion through Harvey County. That work is expected to take about three more years to complete.

BNSF operates about ten trains per day through Reno County along with Amtrak. It has the second highest valuation in the county of more than $11 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588708495024.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The ability to keep costs down offset lower revenue for BNSF as they released their fourth quarter earnings report this week.The nation's second largest railroad reported total revenue of $5.6 billion a drop of 3%. Despite that net income increased by 5% to $ 41.4 billion. The pandemic and further declines in coal shipments continued to pressure the railroad. Coal shipments for the quarter dropped 21%. Most of that was offset by strong gains in ag and consumer products carloads. Total car volume for the quarter increased by 3% but still saw a 7% drop for the year, mostly due to the pandemic.Despite all of the challenges, the railroad was able to trim operating expenses by 6% and by 15% for the year. BNSF also announced that they plan to spend nearly $3 billion track and equipment improvements this year including a large project in central Kansas that will help ease train congestion through Harvey County. That work is expected to take about three more years to complete.BNSF operates about ten trains per day through Reno County along with Amtrak. It has the second highest valuation in the county of more than $11 million.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

BNSF releases 4Q numbers

HAVEN, Kan. — School districts in the area battled through the pandemic with a combination of remote, staggered and in-person learning throughout the year. That includes getting students lunch and breakfast.

One area school district gave Hutch Post an example of the effort they went through to make sure all students got meals. Haven USD 312 which serves four communities worked to get meals to their outlying areas including Yoder, Mt Hope and Partridge. Sheree Jones, Food Service Director for Haven USD 312 says from the spring of 2020 when school buildings were closed up until the end of February 2021, the district district served over 57,000 breakfasts, nearly 74,000 lunches and traveled more than 8,300 miles to distribute meals.

There were times the district was doing both cafeteria meals with social distancing and delivering meals to remote students who could not make it to one of the district's four handout sites.

Jones' comments were made in a letter to the Kansas State Department of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587053540131.jpeg" alt="HAVEN DIST OFFICE.JPG" />
 <figcaption>HAVEN DIST OFFICE.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — School districts in the area battled through the pandemic with a combination of remote, staggered and in-person learning throughout the year. That includes getting students lunch and breakfast.One area school district gave Hutch Post an example of the effort they went through to make sure all students got meals. Haven USD 312 which serves four communities worked to get meals to their outlying areas including Yoder, Mt Hope and Partridge. Sheree Jones, Food Service Director for Haven USD 312 says from the spring of 2020 when school buildings were closed up until the end of February 2021, the district district served over 57,000 breakfasts, nearly 74,000 lunches and traveled more than 8,300 miles to distribute meals.There were times the district was doing both cafeteria meals with social distancing and delivering meals to remote students who could not make it to one of the district's four handout sites.Jones' comments were made in a letter to the Kansas State Department of Education.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven USD 312 sheds some light on school lunch programs during pandemic

BUHLER, Kan. — With Buhler USD 313 making plans to offer virtual classes next fall, the district is asking for input from its patrons.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In order to help the district plan for next school year, they are asking that families who intend to have virtual learners next year complete an intent to enroll survey. This is not a binding choice for next year.&nbsp;Parents of high schoolers may have already completed a similar survey. 

If you are unsure of whether you have filled out the survey or not they ask that you do it again so the district can get an accurate number. The link to the survey can be found <a href="https://forms.gle/iHjwofwQnZ2ZoYav9">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — With Buhler USD 313 making plans to offer virtual classes next fall, the district is asking for input from its patrons.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In order to help the district plan for next school year, they are asking that families who intend to have virtual learners next year complete an intent to enroll survey. This is not a binding choice for next year.&nbsp;Parents of high schoolers may have already completed a similar survey. If you are unsure of whether you have filled out the survey or not they ask that you do it again so the district can get an accurate number. The link to the survey can be found <a href="https://forms.gle/iHjwofwQnZ2ZoYav9">here</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Buhler needs info on virtual learning from patrons


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Community College is planning to host its 2021 commencement with two in-person ceremonies on Friday, April 30 at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

At 4:00 pm, those students earning an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and Certificates of Technical Education will graduate while those earning a Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of General Studies (AGS) will graduate at 7:00 pm.

Guest seating will be limited and a ticket will be required for entrance. More information on ticketing will be available at a later date.

It is expected all attendees will wear a mask and adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Should you have any questions, contact the Records Office at records@hutchcc.edu.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Community College is planning to host its 2021 commencement with two in-person ceremonies on Friday, April 30 at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.At 4:00 pm, those students earning an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and Certificates of Technical Education will graduate while those earning a Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of General Studies (AGS) will graduate at 7:00 pm.Guest seating will be limited and a ticket will be required for entrance. More information on ticketing will be available at a later date.It is expected all attendees will wear a mask and adhere to social distancing guidelines.Should you have any questions, contact the Records Office at records@hutchcc.edu.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC to hold two commencement ceremonies April 30


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers acknowledges the difficulties of having a three member board. It means there isn't a lot of communicating board members can do with each other ahead of public meetings without running afoul of open meetings statutes.

"It's much easier to get to the bottom of a discussion and get to understanding each other's viewpoint on a larger board," Sellers said. "There's some discussion in Reno County that we might be better served by a five person board. I think that's one of the things I'd like to explore in the next year and three-fourths that I have in my term, to see if the citizens of Reno County might move in that direction."

He believes there's more room to negotiate with more people at the table.

"I think you would have better representation, better viewpoints, more viewpoints," Sellers said. "It would be easier to come to a majority decision with five versus three."

The county commission would need to pass a resolution creating the additional districts and then that would go before the voters at the next general election.

"If you have more people, I think it's easier to get to a middle ground," Sellers said. "That's why I would recommend that we at least look at growing the commission to a five member board."

The public can also force the commission's hand by petitioning to change the number. That petition would need signatures of 5% of the registered voters in the county.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers acknowledges the difficulties of having a three member board. It means there isn't a lot of communicating board members can do with each other ahead of public meetings without running afoul of open meetings statutes."It's much easier to get to the bottom of a discussion and get to understanding each other's viewpoint on a larger board," Sellers said. "There's some discussion in Reno County that we might be better served by a five person board. I think that's one of the things I'd like to explore in the next year and three-fourths that I have in my term, to see if the citizens of Reno County might move in that direction."He believes there's more room to negotiate with more people at the table."I think you would have better representation, better viewpoints, more viewpoints," Sellers said. "It would be easier to come to a majority decision with five versus three."The county commission would need to pass a resolution creating the additional districts and then that would go before the voters at the next general election."If you have more people, I think it's easier to get to a middle ground," Sellers said. "That's why I would recommend that we at least look at growing the commission to a five member board."The public can also force the commission's hand by petitioning to change the number. That petition would need signatures of 5% of the registered voters in the county.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sellers: County commission should consider having more members

Hutchinson, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A live webinar for business owners in Reno County in March will help position independent businesses for accelerated success as the nation continues to deal with the global coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

“Covid-19 Business Strategy: Making Your Business a Consumer Destination,” conducted by internationally known business consultant Jon Schallert will be broadcast on Tuesday, March 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Registered participants can submit questions to Schallert during the event.

“There are very specific steps that independent businesses must take right now to start recouping sales, generating additional revenue, and positioning themselves for a successful 2021, while still being safe,” Schallert says. “These steps can help businesses make up lost ground and position their businesses to thrive during this year, regardless of what the pandemic throws at us.”

StartUp Hutch is underwriting the webinar to help boost the local economy.

“Several Reno County businesses have participated in the training over the years, and we continue to hear good feedback on their experience,” said Jackson Swearer, Entrepreneur Navigator and Program Director at StartUp Hutch. “We know some small businesses have had a tough year&nbsp;but are poised for a bright future.”&nbsp;

The webinar is free to participants, but <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/covid-19-business-strategy-making-your-business-a-consumer-destination-tickets-144307755381">registration is requested</a>. The&nbsp;event will be recorded for those who cannot attend.

Schallert has worked with independent business owners since 1983. His business strategies have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Entrepreneur Magazine, and other national and trade publications. Schallert is the only consultant in the world who has personally visited and interviewed over 11,000 independent business owners. He is&nbsp;a member of the National Speakers Association and the National Main Street Network.

For more information about The Schallert Group, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.successfulindependentbusiness.com/" target="_blank">www.SuccessfulIndependentBusiness.com</a>&nbsp;and subscribe to Schallert’s free “Reinvent Your Business” email newsletter.

For more information, call&nbsp;Schallert at 303-774-6522, or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Info@JonSchallert.com" target="_blank">Info@JonSchallert.com</a>.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A live webinar for business owners in Reno County in March will help position independent businesses for accelerated success as the nation continues to deal with the global coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;“Covid-19 Business Strategy: Making Your Business a Consumer Destination,” conducted by internationally known business consultant Jon Schallert will be broadcast on Tuesday, March 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Registered participants can submit questions to Schallert during the event.“There are very specific steps that independent businesses must take right now to start recouping sales, generating additional revenue, and positioning themselves for a successful 2021, while still being safe,” Schallert says. “These steps can help businesses make up lost ground and position their businesses to thrive during this year, regardless of what the pandemic throws at us.”StartUp Hutch is underwriting the webinar to help boost the local economy.“Several Reno County businesses have participated in the training over the years, and we continue to hear good feedback on their experience,” said Jackson Swearer, Entrepreneur Navigator and Program Director at StartUp Hutch. “We know some small businesses have had a tough year&nbsp;but are poised for a bright future.”&nbsp;The webinar is free to participants, but <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/covid-19-business-strategy-making-your-business-a-consumer-destination-tickets-144307755381">registration is requested</a>. The&nbsp;event will be recorded for those who cannot attend.Schallert has worked with independent business owners since 1983. His business strategies have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Entrepreneur Magazine, and other national and trade publications. Schallert is the only consultant in the world who has personally visited and interviewed over 11,000 independent business owners. He is&nbsp;a member of the National Speakers Association and the National Main Street Network.For more information about The Schallert Group, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.successfulindependentbusiness.com/" target="_blank">www.SuccessfulIndependentBusiness.com</a>&nbsp;and subscribe to Schallert’s free “Reinvent Your Business” email newsletter.For more information, call&nbsp;Schallert at 303-774-6522, or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Info@JonSchallert.com" target="_blank">Info@JonSchallert.com</a>.

Business strategy webinar to boost revenue for Reno County businesses


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Schools in Reno County are in the green before St. Patrick's Day. The gating criteria posted on the Reno County website has the 14-day positive test rate as of March 7 at 4.8%, with a 14-day new case total of 42.

Back on June 27, the 14-day rolling positive test rate was at 4.9%. We didn't hit that level again until March 5.

The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 86 as of Thursday. 

Out of 7,725 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,502 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. 

No Reno County residents are in the hospital with COVID-19, nor are there any cases as part of documented long-term care facility clusters.

Drive-thru testing is currently available at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson.

The site is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit www.gogettested.com.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Schools in Reno County are in the green before St. Patrick's Day. The gating criteria posted on the Reno County website has the 14-day positive test rate as of March 7 at 4.8%, with a 14-day new case total of 42.Back on June 27, the 14-day rolling positive test rate was at 4.9%. We didn't hit that level again until March 5.The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 86 as of Thursday. Out of 7,725 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,502 recoveries. There are 8 clusters still being monitored. No Reno County residents are in the hospital with COVID-19, nor are there any cases as part of documented long-term care facility clusters.Drive-thru testing is currently available at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson.The site is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit www.gogettested.com.

School gating criteria in green for next week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Several area agencies will receive an extra dose of support thanks to a $2.2 million gift to Hutchinson Community Foundation from the estate of the late Bonnie and Franklin Fee.

&nbsp;Half of the gift will sustain the Bonnie &amp; Frank Fee Endowed Fund, with 50 percent supporting programs at Trinity United Methodist Church and the remaining 50 percent divided equally between the Boy Scouts Quivira Council, Girl Scouts Wheatbelt Council, Wesley Towers Foundation, Hutchinson Public Library and Hutchinson Art Center. Meanwhile, the remaining $1.1 million of the overall gift will support the Bonnie &amp; Frank Fee Fund for Hutchinson Fund, serving the foundation’s unrestricted community endowment.

&nbsp;Frank was a partner in the Fontron-Fee Agency, now Fee Insurance Group, and was active in real estate. He filled numerous community roles, including as a USD 308 Board of Education member and a more than 50 year volunteer with the Boy Scouts. Bonnie served on several community boards including Wesley Towers, the Reno County American Red Cross and the Girl Scouts Wheatbelt Council&nbsp; and was active in the Hutchinson Art Association.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news updat&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Several area agencies will receive an extra dose of support thanks to a $2.2 million gift to Hutchinson Community Foundation from the estate of the late Bonnie and Franklin Fee.&nbsp;Half of the gift will sustain the Bonnie &amp; Frank Fee Endowed Fund, with 50 percent supporting programs at Trinity United Methodist Church and the remaining 50 percent divided equally between the Boy Scouts Quivira Council, Girl Scouts Wheatbelt Council, Wesley Towers Foundation, Hutchinson Public Library and Hutchinson Art Center. Meanwhile, the remaining $1.1 million of the overall gift will support the Bonnie &amp; Frank Fee Fund for Hutchinson Fund, serving the foundation’s unrestricted community endowment.&nbsp;Frank was a partner in the Fontron-Fee Agency, now Fee Insurance Group, and was active in real estate. He filled numerous community roles, including as a USD 308 Board of Education member and a more than 50 year volunteer with the Boy Scouts. Bonnie served on several community boards including Wesley Towers, the Reno County American Red Cross and the Girl Scouts Wheatbelt Council&nbsp; and was active in the Hutchinson Art Association.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news updat&nbsp;&nbsp;

HCF benefits from Fee gift

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After a one-year hiatus, the annual Hutchinson USD 308 district orchestra concert returns Tuesday, March 16, in the Hutchinson High School Performing Arts Center. Concert time is 7:30.

The concert will feature about 60 sixth graders from across the district, 50 from Hutchinson Middle School&nbsp; 7 and 8 and 35 from Hutchinson High School under the direction of orchestra teachers Jay Hawkins and Erica Pinkston.

The 2020 version of the concert was canceled because of the pandemic.

In addition to the in-person concert, there will be virtual orchestras – individual videos and audio recordings – stitched together by Haysville Public School's Jeremy Samuels.

Because of the pandemic, there will be limits on attendance. Only sixth grade parents are asked to attend the concert in person. Everyone else will be able to see it at <a href="https://youtu.be/hVBQRfOIke0">https://youtu.be/hVBQRfOIke0</a>.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After a one-year hiatus, the annual Hutchinson USD 308 district orchestra concert returns Tuesday, March 16, in the Hutchinson High School Performing Arts Center. Concert time is 7:30.The concert will feature about 60 sixth graders from across the district, 50 from Hutchinson Middle School&nbsp; 7 and 8 and 35 from Hutchinson High School under the direction of orchestra teachers Jay Hawkins and Erica Pinkston.The 2020 version of the concert was canceled because of the pandemic.In addition to the in-person concert, there will be virtual orchestras – individual videos and audio recordings – stitched together by Haysville Public School's Jeremy Samuels.Because of the pandemic, there will be limits on attendance. Only sixth grade parents are asked to attend the concert in person. Everyone else will be able to see it at <a href="https://youtu.be/hVBQRfOIke0">https://youtu.be/hVBQRfOIke0</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 308 spring concert returns

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Building Official Izzy Rivera, announced Thursday that Debbie Cole&nbsp; has joined the team as the new Neighborhood Code Compliance Inspector.&nbsp;

Cole comes to the City with more than twenty years of experience in public service, building&nbsp; services and code enforcement, including fifteen in the Building Services and Code Enforcement&nbsp; Department of the City of Tulsa. A graduate of Oklahoma State University, she spent the last&nbsp; five years here in Kansas working for the City of Salina.&nbsp;

Cole began her work at City Hall last month.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Building Official Izzy Rivera, announced Thursday that Debbie Cole&nbsp; has joined the team as the new Neighborhood Code Compliance Inspector.&nbsp;Cole comes to the City with more than twenty years of experience in public service, building&nbsp; services and code enforcement, including fifteen in the Building Services and Code Enforcement&nbsp; Department of the City of Tulsa. A graduate of Oklahoma State University, she spent the last&nbsp; five years here in Kansas working for the City of Salina.&nbsp;Cole began her work at City Hall last month.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City announces new code enforcement employee

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council will take time to discuss the current $0.01 sales tax that is on the books during Monday’s agenda session.&nbsp;

The Council will set a time for a workshop to discuss the sales tax and whether they want to put it up for a vote again in November. The tax was approved by a vote in 2012 and was the main funding source for the new community center. The tax was extended by a vote in 2017 and runs through 2022.&nbsp;

The funds can be used for a wide variety of projects including playgrounds, street and sewer maintenance, and water service. The sales tax generates around $65,000 per year.&nbsp;

Also Monday, the council will take time to discuss installing several school signs around both the elementary and high school and&nbsp; they will go over a trailer purchase for public works.&nbsp;

Monday’s Nickerson City Council meeting begins at&nbsp; 7 p.m. at the Nickerson city offices.

<figure>
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 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council will take time to discuss the current $0.01 sales tax that is on the books during Monday’s agenda session.&nbsp;The Council will set a time for a workshop to discuss the sales tax and whether they want to put it up for a vote again in November. The tax was approved by a vote in 2012 and was the main funding source for the new community center. The tax was extended by a vote in 2017 and runs through 2022.&nbsp;The funds can be used for a wide variety of projects including playgrounds, street and sewer maintenance, and water service. The sales tax generates around $65,000 per year.&nbsp;Also Monday, the council will take time to discuss installing several school signs around both the elementary and high school and&nbsp; they will go over a trailer purchase for public works.&nbsp;Monday’s Nickerson City Council meeting begins at&nbsp; 7 p.m. at the Nickerson city offices.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nickerson City Council to discuss 1% sales tax on Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/ Reno County Chamber of Commerce announced Thursday that Site Selection Magazine recently released its 2020 Governor’s Cup rankings, where Kansas ranked 10th in the nation in economic development projects per capita.&nbsp; Kansas had the most dramatic jump in economic development success of any state in the country in 2020, according to the Site Selection Magazine.

&nbsp;As part of this ranking, Hutchinson, along with four other Kansas communities, were recognized as one of the top 100 performing “micropolitan” areas in the United States.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“While we know that existing businesses drive the local economy, we also know it takes a diversified approach to be successful,” Debra Teufel, President and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber said. “This climb in the rankings is a testament to the strength and resilience of our existing companies who continued to grow and invest in 2020 despite a pandemic.”

&nbsp;According to the Governor’s Office, this achievement comes in the wake of sweeping changes to the Kansas Department of Commerce, including a new International division, a fully-staffed Business Recruitment team, a revised In-State Development team and more improvements. It said the shifts for Commerce led to 2020 being one of the state’s most successful capital investment years ever.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The criteria for projects per capita in this ranking include new corporate facility projects like headquarters, manufacturing plants, research and development operations and logistics sites, among others. Retail, government projects, schools, and hospitals are not counted in this ranking criteria.

&nbsp;New facilities and expansions must meet at least one of three criteria to be included:

Involve a capital investment of at least $1 million, create at least 20 new jobs, or add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor area

Hutchinson has two such projects in 2020.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/ Reno County Chamber of Commerce announced Thursday that Site Selection Magazine recently released its 2020 Governor’s Cup rankings, where Kansas ranked 10th in the nation in economic development projects per capita.&nbsp; Kansas had the most dramatic jump in economic development success of any state in the country in 2020, according to the Site Selection Magazine.&nbsp;As part of this ranking, Hutchinson, along with four other Kansas communities, were recognized as one of the top 100 performing “micropolitan” areas in the United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;“While we know that existing businesses drive the local economy, we also know it takes a diversified approach to be successful,” Debra Teufel, President and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber said. “This climb in the rankings is a testament to the strength and resilience of our existing companies who continued to grow and invest in 2020 despite a pandemic.”&nbsp;According to the Governor’s Office, this achievement comes in the wake of sweeping changes to the Kansas Department of Commerce, including a new International division, a fully-staffed Business Recruitment team, a revised In-State Development team and more improvements. It said the shifts for Commerce led to 2020 being one of the state’s most successful capital investment years ever.&nbsp;&nbsp;The criteria for projects per capita in this ranking include new corporate facility projects like headquarters, manufacturing plants, research and development operations and logistics sites, among others. Retail, government projects, schools, and hospitals are not counted in this ranking criteria.&nbsp;New facilities and expansions must meet at least one of three criteria to be included:Involve a capital investment of at least $1 million, create at least 20 new jobs, or add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor areaHutchinson has two such projects in 2020.&nbsp;

Site Selection recognizes Kansas and Hutchinson for growth in 2020

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>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<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>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Recent obituaries

Hutchinson Community Foundation receives major gift, Amtrak to begin daily service again. That and more from Hutch Post.

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 </figure>Hutchinson Community Foundation receives major gift, Amtrak to begin daily service again. That and more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="12 noon news for March 11" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/2sshq-fd57f6?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

March 11, 2021 Noon News

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kroger Health, announced it has significantly increased operational capacity to administer the COVID-19 vaccine, achieving the ability to deliver one million doses per week through in-store pharmacies and clinics, and mass vaccination off-site events. That includes the Dillons Marketplace and W 5th Avenue stores in Hutchinson.

To vaccinate more Americans more quickly, Kroger Health will use the first hour of pharmacy operations as a focus hour assigned to administering the three FDA-authorized vaccines. Patients will continue to have the ability to schedule appointments for various times, but the morning focus hour will allow for additional COVID-19 vaccines to be administered. To accomplish the administration of one million doses per week, the plan requires the activation of all pharmacies and clinics within Kroger Health's national network and ongoing and expanded partnerships with federal, state and local governments and health officials.&nbsp;

Kroger Health will launch the new focus hour this week in Ohio, with additional states to follow next week as soon as vaccine accessibility and supply increases.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kroger Health, announced it has significantly increased operational capacity to administer the COVID-19 vaccine, achieving the ability to deliver one million doses per week through in-store pharmacies and clinics, and mass vaccination off-site events. That includes the Dillons Marketplace and W 5th Avenue stores in Hutchinson.To vaccinate more Americans more quickly, Kroger Health will use the first hour of pharmacy operations as a focus hour assigned to administering the three FDA-authorized vaccines. Patients will continue to have the ability to schedule appointments for various times, but the morning focus hour will allow for additional COVID-19 vaccines to be administered. To accomplish the administration of one million doses per week, the plan requires the activation of all pharmacies and clinics within Kroger Health's national network and ongoing and expanded partnerships with federal, state and local governments and health officials.&nbsp;Kroger Health will launch the new focus hour this week in Ohio, with additional states to follow next week as soon as vaccine accessibility and supply increases.

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