BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 announced plans for graduation July 18 at 9 a.m. at Crusader Stadium.

During the ceremony, graduates will be seated in the east bleachers while friends and family will need to bring their own lawn chairs and sit either on the field or along the track. All are asked to maintain social distancing during the ceremony.

Masks will be available for those who do not have one.

If the weather is bad, the ceremony will move inside the Jim Baker Field House. If inside, graduates will be seated on the gym floor. Each graduate will get six tickets to use for friends and family. Faculty will be asked not to attend so as many family members can attend. If inside, masks will be required and no one will be admitted without a ticket.

If you can’t attend, the ceremony will be streamed on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhuTc8iwRg0">district’s YouTube channel</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 announced plans for graduation July 18 at 9 a.m. at Crusader Stadium.During the ceremony, graduates will be seated in the east bleachers while friends and family will need to bring their own lawn chairs and sit either on the field or along the track. All are asked to maintain social distancing during the ceremony.Masks will be available for those who do not have one.If the weather is bad, the ceremony will move inside the Jim Baker Field House. If inside, graduates will be seated on the gym floor. Each graduate will get six tickets to use for friends and family. Faculty will be asked not to attend so as many family members can attend. If inside, masks will be required and no one will be admitted without a ticket.If you can’t attend, the ceremony will be streamed on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhuTc8iwRg0">district’s YouTube channel</a>.

Buhler USD 313 releases details for graduation ceremony

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — TECH of Hutchinson will host its annual Christmas in July art event at the TECH Art Gallery starting July 20.&nbsp;

Patrons will be able to shop for original paintings and prints, as well as brand new original paintings. These Christmas items will be available through the month of July for a limited time only. Items can be viewed in the online gallery at <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001vfUANmmeEruHU2sSN2vk-oqcr4Z16LWV77cotQfMAlfqGvHE9o148hwgPh1RyJ5xMQ23p_BaBJym5I8cyIajO2nwY6_xuB29bfTOEu9ZdhHe1M1CZrRLUZ2z1HQUmLrT3xqRDD2RNW9051MuK4ZuB5k-wBG42jGr&amp;c=0k-wjMXtmNIhFVoCs2bKQJc1X76s6WyZHGUrS7yAU0aMjvuv8rwLGg==&amp;ch=_UXf9tIeMxf7mFHh0mRE1mB_Z_QoJBIki_66PTzxSLPJSV_EoGy0QA==">techincartgallery.com</a>.&nbsp;

The TECH Art Gallery is located at 10 E. 1st Ave. and is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594931491460.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — TECH of Hutchinson will host its annual Christmas in July art event at the TECH Art Gallery starting July 20.&nbsp;Patrons will be able to shop for original paintings and prints, as well as brand new original paintings. These Christmas items will be available through the month of July for a limited time only. Items can be viewed in the online gallery at <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001vfUANmmeEruHU2sSN2vk-oqcr4Z16LWV77cotQfMAlfqGvHE9o148hwgPh1RyJ5xMQ23p_BaBJym5I8cyIajO2nwY6_xuB29bfTOEu9ZdhHe1M1CZrRLUZ2z1HQUmLrT3xqRDD2RNW9051MuK4ZuB5k-wBG42jGr&amp;c=0k-wjMXtmNIhFVoCs2bKQJc1X76s6WyZHGUrS7yAU0aMjvuv8rwLGg==&amp;ch=_UXf9tIeMxf7mFHh0mRE1mB_Z_QoJBIki_66PTzxSLPJSV_EoGy0QA==">techincartgallery.com</a>.&nbsp;The TECH Art Gallery is located at 10 E. 1st Ave. and is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TECH Christmas in July begins July 20

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners have set a date of Aug. 4 for the public hearing on the 2021 budget.

The proposed budget for next year totals $75.1 million on total taxes levied of $25.6 million. With that, the mill levy will stay at 41.687 mills.

The county has been working to hold the line on the budget with significant drops in revenue projected in the coming months due to the pandemic. The commission had a choice to raise the mill levy on county citizens, but chose to hold the line on spending.

The public hearing will be held at 9:30 a.m. as part of the weekly agenda session.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners have set a date of Aug. 4 for the public hearing on the 2021 budget.The proposed budget for next year totals $75.1 million on total taxes levied of $25.6 million. With that, the mill levy will stay at 41.687 mills.The county has been working to hold the line on the budget with significant drops in revenue projected in the coming months due to the pandemic. The commission had a choice to raise the mill levy on county citizens, but chose to hold the line on spending.The public hearing will be held at 9:30 a.m. as part of the weekly agenda session.The budget publication is below:<figure>
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County releases 2021 budget numbers

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas announced Thursday that it has selected the Heal Reno County Coalition in Reno County, along with 23 other communities in Kansas, as grantees for its second phase of <a href="https://www.bcbsks.com/AboutUs/blue-health-initiatives/pathways/index.shtml">Pathways to a Healthy Kansas</a> initiative. This includes 12 returning communities that were selected in the initiative's first phase of grants. Reno County was one of these 12 returning communities.

Since the initiative began in 2016, Blue Cross has donated more than $11.7 million in grants and assistance to communities throughout Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The grant funding includes a coordination grant of $200,000 for each community. In addition, Heal Reno County will have the opportunity to apply for non-competitive implementation grants amounting to $200,000 for a total of up to $400,000.

Five organizations — Reno County Health Department, Hutch Rec, United Way of Reno County, Hutchinson Community Foundation and Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System — serve as Community Health Investors that make up the core leadership team of Heal Reno County.

In 2016, Heal Reno County was a recipient of the original Pathways to a Healthy Kansas grant award. For more information on Heal Reno County and updates on the work being done in our community, follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HEALRenoCounty/">Heal Reno County Facebook page</a> and visit <a href="http://healrenocounty.org">healrenocounty.org.</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas announced Thursday that it has selected the Heal Reno County Coalition in Reno County, along with 23 other communities in Kansas, as grantees for its second phase of <a href="https://www.bcbsks.com/AboutUs/blue-health-initiatives/pathways/index.shtml">Pathways to a Healthy Kansas</a> initiative. This includes 12 returning communities that were selected in the initiative's first phase of grants. Reno County was one of these 12 returning communities.Since the initiative began in 2016, Blue Cross has donated more than $11.7 million in grants and assistance to communities throughout Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;The grant funding includes a coordination grant of $200,000 for each community. In addition, Heal Reno County will have the opportunity to apply for non-competitive implementation grants amounting to $200,000 for a total of up to $400,000.Five organizations — Reno County Health Department, Hutch Rec, United Way of Reno County, Hutchinson Community Foundation and Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System — serve as Community Health Investors that make up the core leadership team of Heal Reno County.In 2016, Heal Reno County was a recipient of the original Pathways to a Healthy Kansas grant award. For more information on Heal Reno County and updates on the work being done in our community, follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HEALRenoCounty/">Heal Reno County Facebook page</a> and visit <a href="http://healrenocounty.org">healrenocounty.org.</a>

Heal Reno Co. Coalition receives Blue Cross grant 

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

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

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

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees will get a look at the budget for the next school year during a regular meeting Thursday evening. The proposed budget going before the board is $61.1 million on levied taxes of $13.4 million.  With that, the mill levy will stay the same at 21.9 mills. If approved by the board, a public hearing on the budget is set for Aug. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Shears Technology Center.

Also Thursday, the board will take action on revamping the purchase of equipment for the proposed esports program.

The revision changes the recommendation on purchasing the necessary equipment presented at the June 25 Board of Trustees Meeting. The low bid on the equipment exceeded the purchase price of $20,000 previously authorized. Now the board will take action to purchase  11 sets of esports computer equipment from CDW-G for a total purchase price of $28,705. The equipment will be funded with student fees.

Thursday’s meeting of the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees begins at 7 p.m. at the Shear’s Technology Center on the HutchCC campus.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees will get a look at the budget for the next school year during a regular meeting Thursday evening. The proposed budget going before the board is $61.1 million on levied taxes of $13.4 million. With that, the mill levy will stay the same at 21.9 mills. If approved by the board, a public hearing on the budget is set for Aug. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Shears Technology Center.Also Thursday, the board will take action on revamping the purchase of equipment for the proposed esports program.The revision changes the recommendation on purchasing the necessary equipment presented at the June 25 Board of Trustees Meeting. The low bid on the equipment exceeded the purchase price of $20,000 previously authorized. Now the board will take action to purchase 11 sets of esports computer equipment from CDW-G for a total purchase price of $28,705. The equipment will be funded with student fees.Thursday’s meeting of the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees begins at 7 p.m. at the Shear’s Technology Center on the HutchCC campus.

HutchCC BOT to get look at 2021 budget Thursday evening


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The current COVID-19 case count in Reno County, as of Thursday afternoon at 1 p.m. is at 43 active cases. Ninety-nine people have recovered. No one has died with COVID-19 listed as the primary cause of death in Reno County thus far. The dashboard still lists five hospitalizations.

The Health Department would like to remind everyone to continue the following hygiene practices to eliminate the spread of COVID-19.

• Practice social distancing (stay at least 6 feet apart from others)

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

• Cough and sneeze into your elbow bend (even when wearing a mask)

• Limit handshakes and physical contact

• Stay home when you are sick unless seeking medical attention

• Use a face covering when in public places.

The Health Department continues to highly encourage Reno County residents to be dependent on health authorities to provide the most accurate information on COVID-19.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The current COVID-19 case count in Reno County, as of Thursday afternoon at 1 p.m. is at 43 active cases. Ninety-nine people have recovered. No one has died with COVID-19 listed as the primary cause of death in Reno County thus far. The dashboard still lists five hospitalizations.The Health Department would like to remind everyone to continue the following hygiene practices to eliminate the spread of COVID-19.• Wash your hands frequently• Practice social distancing (stay at least 6 feet apart from others)• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth• Cough and sneeze into your elbow bend (even when wearing a mask)• Limit handshakes and physical contact• Stay home when you are sick unless seeking medical attention• Use a face covering when in public places.The Health Department continues to highly encourage Reno County residents to be dependent on health authorities to provide the most accurate information on COVID-19.

COVID-19 active case count at 43 as of Thursday afternoon in Reno County


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Waldron Place in Hutchinson, KS, assisted living by Americare, reported on Thursday two residents have tested positive for COVID-19. Both residents were tested by the local hospital after being transferred from The Arbors of Waldron Place, the memory care assisted living building on the campus.

On Saturday, the community received word that a resident who had been admitted to the local hospital for symptoms unrelated to COVID-19 on July 9 and remains in the hospital has tested positive to the virus. Based on that notification the community on Saturday placed all residents on in-room quarantine and initiated testing for all residents and employees.

A second resident had been admitted to the hospital on Sunday, July 12, for COVID symptoms and that test came back positive on Tuesday, July 14. That resident has returned to Waldron Place.

A special care unit has been established in The Arbors building to care in place for the one resident who is positive for the virus and for any additional residents testing positive. Establishing the special care unit now will ensure that the facilities are prepared should there be more positive results. The special care unit is separated from other rooms through a plastic barrier. It is staffed by employees who do not care for other residents on campus, and wear full personal protective equipment while on the unit. Americare has experience with special care units and has successfully stopped the spread of the virus. They hope to do the same at Waldron Place. Should a resident require hospitalization; arrangements will be made for a transfer.

Waldron Place has received test results for all additional employees and residents of both buildings showing all were negative for COVID-19. All residents of The Arbors will be retested on Friday, July 17, and all assisted living residents as well as campus employees will be retested on Saturday, July 18.

All residents on campus are being checked every four hours for signs or symptoms. In addition, Waldron Place staff is backed-up 24/7 by Americare’s regional nurses who monitor vital signs remotely to alert staff of residents’ change of condition.

In accordance with the company’s pandemic guidelines the community is restricting visitors.

According to Patricia Cokingtin, Senior Vice President, Americare believes transparent and accurate communication with all of its stakeholders is essential.

“Our families, residents and employees were notified on Saturday of our first positive case and again today with individual resident results,” says Cokingtin. “We wanted to wait to share our overall test results with the community once they were received. We think it’s important to convey how swiftly we have responded and what we are doing to limit exposure even at this early stage.”

In accordance with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment the community will test all employees and residents weekly until 28 days have passed with no new cases of COVID-19.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Waldron Place in Hutchinson, KS, assisted living by Americare, reported on Thursday two residents have tested positive for COVID-19. Both residents were tested by the local hospital after being transferred from The Arbors of Waldron Place, the memory care assisted living building on the campus.On Saturday, the community received word that a resident who had been admitted to the local hospital for symptoms unrelated to COVID-19 on July 9 and remains in the hospital has tested positive to the virus. Based on that notification the community on Saturday placed all residents on in-room quarantine and initiated testing for all residents and employees.A second resident had been admitted to the hospital on Sunday, July 12, for COVID symptoms and that test came back positive on Tuesday, July 14. That resident has returned to Waldron Place.A special care unit has been established in The Arbors building to care in place for the one resident who is positive for the virus and for any additional residents testing positive. Establishing the special care unit now will ensure that the facilities are prepared should there be more positive results. The special care unit is separated from other rooms through a plastic barrier. It is staffed by employees who do not care for other residents on campus, and wear full personal protective equipment while on the unit. Americare has experience with special care units and has successfully stopped the spread of the virus. They hope to do the same at Waldron Place. Should a resident require hospitalization; arrangements will be made for a transfer.Waldron Place has received test results for all additional employees and residents of both buildings showing all were negative for COVID-19. All residents of The Arbors will be retested on Friday, July 17, and all assisted living residents as well as campus employees will be retested on Saturday, July 18.All residents on campus are being checked every four hours for signs or symptoms. In addition, Waldron Place staff is backed-up 24/7 by Americare’s regional nurses who monitor vital signs remotely to alert staff of residents’ change of condition.In accordance with the company’s pandemic guidelines the community is restricting visitors.According to Patricia Cokingtin, Senior Vice President, Americare believes transparent and accurate communication with all of its stakeholders is essential.“Our families, residents and employees were notified on Saturday of our first positive case and again today with individual resident results,” says Cokingtin. “We wanted to wait to share our overall test results with the community once they were received. We think it’s important to convey how swiftly we have responded and what we are doing to limit exposure even at this early stage.”In accordance with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment the community will test all employees and residents weekly until 28 days have passed with no new cases of COVID-19.

Waldron Place announces positive COVID-19 cases, measures being taken

NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed a cluster of COVID-19 cases at the Schowalter Villa retirement facility in Hesston.

The cluster includes seven facility staff members confirmed to have COVID-19. There are no known COVID-19 cases among residents.

Two staff members were sent home to quarantine upon showing symptoms in Schowalter Villa’s screening process. Two staff members stayed home upon feeling ill. Three individuals were asymptomatic. Two of the seven cases have met recovery criteria. Five remain in isolation.

Cases were identified through staff and resident testing conducted by Schowalter Villa when an employee was confirmed to have COVID-19.

This is the first cluster of COVID-19 cases identified in Harvey County. The cluster will be considered active until there are 28 consecutive days – two incubation periods – without positive cases.

Schowalter Villa, in conjunction with the Health Department, will continue to monitor the health of staff and residents, as well as continue previously established preventative measures.

Additionally, the Health Department has confirmed seven new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. They are unrelated to the aforementioned cluster. The confirmed cases include:

· A female in her 50s. She is a close contact of a known active case.

· A female in her 30s. She is a close contact of a known active case.

· A female in her 30s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. She has already met recovery criteria.

· A female between 10-and-19 years old. She is a close contact of a known active case.

· A male in his 50s. This case is under investigation.

· A male in his 40s. He is a close contact of a known active case.

· A male in his 20s. His source of exposure is unknown.

Harvey County has had 102 COVID-19 cases to date, including 98 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 41 known active cases in Harvey County. One individual remains hospitalized. There have been 2,649 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

<figure>
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 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed a cluster of COVID-19 cases at the Schowalter Villa retirement facility in Hesston.The cluster includes seven facility staff members confirmed to have COVID-19. There are no known COVID-19 cases among residents.Two staff members were sent home to quarantine upon showing symptoms in Schowalter Villa’s screening process. Two staff members stayed home upon feeling ill. Three individuals were asymptomatic. Two of the seven cases have met recovery criteria. Five remain in isolation.Cases were identified through staff and resident testing conducted by Schowalter Villa when an employee was confirmed to have COVID-19.This is the first cluster of COVID-19 cases identified in Harvey County. The cluster will be considered active until there are 28 consecutive days – two incubation periods – without positive cases.Schowalter Villa, in conjunction with the Health Department, will continue to monitor the health of staff and residents, as well as continue previously established preventative measures.Additionally, the Health Department has confirmed seven new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. They are unrelated to the aforementioned cluster. The confirmed cases include:· A female in her 50s. She is a close contact of a known active case.· A female in her 30s. She is a close contact of a known active case.· A female in her 30s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. She has already met recovery criteria.· A female between 10-and-19 years old. She is a close contact of a known active case.· A male in his 50s. This case is under investigation.· A male in his 40s. He is a close contact of a known active case.· A male in his 20s. His source of exposure is unknown.Harvey County has had 102 COVID-19 cases to date, including 98 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 41 known active cases in Harvey County. One individual remains hospitalized. There have been 2,649 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

Harvey County confirms Schowalter Villa employee cluster


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;If you're headed to the races, take your mask.

"Tuesday morning, the Reno County Health Department notified NCRA Productions that, to enter the grandstands during the 64th Annual Hutchinson Grand National Auto Races, they are going to require a mask to be worn," said spokesman Warren Hardy. "Once you are in the grandstand, the mask to be worn becomes optional."

You can keep social distancing in the stands within families, but that's not so at the entrance gate.

"The grandstand opens at 5 p.m. every day, hot laps at 6 and race time at 7," Hardy said. 

Crowds typically are strong for the Grand National event.

"Thursday will be a slight crowd," Hardy said. "It's more of a local flavor than anything else. Friday and Saturday, we're expecting crowds around three to five thousand each night."

It's likely the largest event to be held in the Grandstand for some time to come, now that the 2020 Kansas State Fair has been cancelled.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;If you're headed to the races, take your mask."Tuesday morning, the Reno County Health Department notified NCRA Productions that, to enter the grandstands during the 64th Annual Hutchinson Grand National Auto Races, they are going to require a mask to be worn," said spokesman Warren Hardy. "Once you are in the grandstand, the mask to be worn becomes optional."You can keep social distancing in the stands within families, but that's not so at the entrance gate."The grandstand opens at 5 p.m. every day, hot laps at 6 and race time at 7," Hardy said. Crowds typically are strong for the Grand National event."Thursday will be a slight crowd," Hardy said. "It's more of a local flavor than anything else. Friday and Saturday, we're expecting crowds around three to five thousand each night."It's likely the largest event to be held in the Grandstand for some time to come, now that the 2020 Kansas State Fair has been cancelled.

Masks required for entry at races at Fairgrounds this weekend


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Gas prices are steady this week, in spite of fluctuating fundamentals.

"Over the past week, gas demand increased to the highest level since March," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "We're talking about 8.7 million barrels per day. The stock storage of gas decreased, but that combination wasn't enough to significantly impact prices at the pump."

The nationwide average is at $2.20 a gallon.

"The Kansas average is pretty much flat from where we were a week ago at $1.98 a gallon," Steward said. "That puts us at 10th cheapest in the nation."

Reno County is staying with the rest of the state.

"Reno County is $1.96 average today, that's two cents less than the state average," Steward said. "Hutchinson, as of Wednesday was $1.98, right at the state average."

To find out the best price wherever you travel, go to gasprices.aaa.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579620767389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Gas prices are steady this week, in spite of fluctuating fundamentals."Over the past week, gas demand increased to the highest level since March," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "We're talking about 8.7 million barrels per day. The stock storage of gas decreased, but that combination wasn't enough to significantly impact prices at the pump."The nationwide average is at $2.20 a gallon."The Kansas average is pretty much flat from where we were a week ago at $1.98 a gallon," Steward said. "That puts us at 10th cheapest in the nation."Reno County is staying with the rest of the state."Reno County is $1.96 average today, that's two cents less than the state average," Steward said. "Hutchinson, as of Wednesday was $1.98, right at the state average."To find out the best price wherever you travel, go to gasprices.aaa.com.

Gas prices still low for summer

Dr. Sawsan Amireh is a new hematologist and oncologist that will begin taking patients with the Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System next month. She's glad to be here.

"Here in south central Kansas, life is at a slower rate, a slower pace, it's a smaller community where everyone feels like one big family," Amireh said. "That's what I was looking for in terms of establishing my practice. I wanted a place where I can feel like I have an impact."

Because of coming from New York, though, Amireh believes she will have had a chance to see illness in person that will give her insight into how to treat whatever conditions come before her.

"I feel like that kind of training and that kind of experience prepared me to deal with different patients with different pathologies," Amireh said. "I feel like I'm well equipped and I'm confident that everybody who comes in, we can offer him the best options that are available. I do take guidance in treatment from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and the American Society of Clinical Oncology to make sure that we give them the standard and best care."

Dr. Amireh understands that she is treating the patient as well as the condition.

"I wish we could just delete cancer and remove it from existence," Amireh said. "But, even in the unfortunate event, if somebody does develop cancer, we are here to take care of them. We are here to provide them with the best available treatments based on our knowledge and expertise. We'll take the road with them step by step."

Learn more or schedule an appointment by calling 620-513-4820.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592488861050.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Sawsan Amireh is a new hematologist and oncologist that will begin taking patients with the Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System next month. She's glad to be here."Here in south central Kansas, life is at a slower rate, a slower pace, it's a smaller community where everyone feels like one big family," Amireh said. "That's what I was looking for in terms of establishing my practice. I wanted a place where I can feel like I have an impact."Because of coming from New York, though, Amireh believes she will have had a chance to see illness in person that will give her insight into how to treat whatever conditions come before her."I feel like that kind of training and that kind of experience prepared me to deal with different patients with different pathologies," Amireh said. "I feel like I'm well equipped and I'm confident that everybody who comes in, we can offer him the best options that are available. I do take guidance in treatment from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and the American Society of Clinical Oncology to make sure that we give them the standard and best care."Dr. Amireh understands that she is treating the patient as well as the condition."I wish we could just delete cancer and remove it from existence," Amireh said. "But, even in the unfortunate event, if somebody does develop cancer, we are here to take care of them. We are here to provide them with the best available treatments based on our knowledge and expertise. We'll take the road with them step by step."Learn more or schedule an appointment by calling 620-513-4820.

New doctor glad to be in Hutchinson

ANDERSON COUNTY— 
A Halstead man was injured in an accident in Anderson County on Wednesday.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, just after 12:15 p.m., a 2019 Ford F150 driven by 42-year-old Robert L. Geiler of Garnett was southbound on US 59 south of Garnett when the truck crossed the center line and was struck by a 2013 Kenworth semi pulling a trailer driven by 64-year-old Galen F. Friesen of Halstead. Debris from the pickup then struck a 2016 Ford Explorer driven by 33-year-old Ashlee Geiler of Garnett.

Friesen was taken to Anderson County Hospital to be checked out. No one else in the accident was hurt.

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 </figure>ANDERSON COUNTY— 
A Halstead man was injured in an accident in Anderson County on Wednesday.According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, just after 12:15 p.m., a 2019 Ford F150 driven by 42-year-old Robert L. Geiler of Garnett was southbound on US 59 south of Garnett when the truck crossed the center line and was struck by a 2013 Kenworth semi pulling a trailer driven by 64-year-old Galen F. Friesen of Halstead. Debris from the pickup then struck a 2016 Ford Explorer driven by 33-year-old Ashlee Geiler of Garnett.Friesen was taken to Anderson County Hospital to be checked out. No one else in the accident was hurt.

Halstead man injured Wednesday in Anderson County accident


RENO COUNTY — 
A Hutchinson teenager was injured in an accident at US 50 and Buhler Road Wednesday morning.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, 15-year-old America Holliday was driving a vehicle east on Highway 50 just after 9:30 a.m. when she tried to make a left on to Buhler Road and her vehicle was struck by a vehicle driven by 49-year-old Amos McCarthy from North Newton. 

The airbags deployed in both vehicles. Holliday was taken to Hutchinson Regional to check out pain in her leg. Both drivers were buckled up.

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RENO COUNTY — 
A Hutchinson teenager was injured in an accident at US 50 and Buhler Road Wednesday morning.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, 15-year-old America Holliday was driving a vehicle east on Highway 50 just after 9:30 a.m. when she tried to make a left on to Buhler Road and her vehicle was struck by a vehicle driven by 49-year-old Amos McCarthy from North Newton. The airbags deployed in both vehicles. Holliday was taken to Hutchinson Regional to check out pain in her leg. Both drivers were buckled up.

Hutchinson teen hurt in wreck Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The announcement by the Governor that schools in Kansas would not open until after the Labor Day holiday caught many by surprise.&nbsp;

“I understand, I’m going to stay out of the political divisiveness that come with these kinds of announcements,” USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks said. “We just need to focus on maybe making some sacrifices now&nbsp; that will benefit kids down the road&nbsp; and so we will continue to work diligently and get information out to parents and staff as soon as we can.”

Superintendents in the state will also meet with State Education Director Dr. Randy Watson on Thursday to discuss the restarting of schools and the Navigating Change initiative.

“We’re fortunate here in 308, we have six teams that are working together and separately. And we have disseminated that and sent it to those teams,” Folks said of the 1,100 page set of guidelines. “We by no means had our 308 plan ready to go but we were working on it&nbsp; and we will continue to work on it whenever we’re able to&nbsp; get back in person with students and staff.”

Folks says he is preparing a video that will be sent to parents that will outline the plans for the school district to reopen whenever that may occur.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579618707683.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The announcement by the Governor that schools in Kansas would not open until after the Labor Day holiday caught many by surprise.&nbsp;“I understand, I’m going to stay out of the political divisiveness that come with these kinds of announcements,” USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks said. “We just need to focus on maybe making some sacrifices now&nbsp; that will benefit kids down the road&nbsp; and so we will continue to work diligently and get information out to parents and staff as soon as we can.”Superintendents in the state will also meet with State Education Director Dr. Randy Watson on Thursday to discuss the restarting of schools and the Navigating Change initiative.“We’re fortunate here in 308, we have six teams that are working together and separately. And we have disseminated that and sent it to those teams,” Folks said of the 1,100 page set of guidelines. “We by no means had our 308 plan ready to go but we were working on it&nbsp; and we will continue to work on it whenever we’re able to&nbsp; get back in person with students and staff.”Folks says he is preparing a video that will be sent to parents that will outline the plans for the school district to reopen whenever that may occur.

USD 308 Superintendent talks about delaying the start of school

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There was a lot of discussion regarding personnel during the City Council budget meeting Wednesday. That included a lengthy discussion of the Human Relations position for the city which carries a line item of around $63,000. That is currently a part-time position held by Datjaeda Moore.&nbsp;

A grant that was provided at the last minute by the Hutchinson Community Foundation offered $60,000 to make the position full-time over a three-year period. The city would be tagged with the full expense after that and City Administrator Jeff Cantrell offered the council a ten-year look ahead on city costs for that position. The offer comes at a time when the city is not offering any pay increases and implementing a hiring freeze. Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho was in favor of the proposal.

“I think we send a really strong message as a city, that we’re committed to the ideas of equity and full inclusion of everyone in this community if we fund this position full-time with benefits,” Piros de Carvalho said. “I think we’re in an amazing position, that a private organization has stepped up so we don’t have to subsidize the burden of all of that cost. However, if the city doesn’t feel that the position is worthy of full-time and we’re just doing it because the community foundation is offering this money, I don’t know that’s the message we want to send.”&nbsp;

But with the hiring freeze in place, council member Jon Daveline cautioned against the perception such a change might give to other employees.

“We have a responsibility and we need to be consistent with making sure we’re whole with all of our personnel,” Daveline said. “And with a hiring freeze and not filling vacancies, I think that’s an underlying message to 400 employees.”

Piros de Carvalho noted that the police department was taking on two new positions and wondered what message that sent. But council member Sara Bagwell noted that those positions were already approved in the budget. Bagwell noted she wants to address the Human Relations position but noted that the police positions are needed now.

“I want the police things, I think it’s something we absolutely need. I’m not discounting the Human Relations thing, I’m just saying, is there any way we not make a full commitment until the next budget year," Bagwell said. “It’s just so the heat of the moment...I’d feel more comfortable...having more time to evaluate and assess.”

The council also noted that if Moore was to be hired full-time that she needed to reside in the city just like other directors within the city government. In the end, the council was in consensus that the position would stay part-time. The council has been able to cut around $5 million from the budget and still maintain a roughly $4 million ending balance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594149629780.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — There was a lot of discussion regarding personnel during the City Council budget meeting Wednesday. That included a lengthy discussion of the Human Relations position for the city which carries a line item of around $63,000. That is currently a part-time position held by Datjaeda Moore.&nbsp;A grant that was provided at the last minute by the Hutchinson Community Foundation offered $60,000 to make the position full-time over a three-year period. The city would be tagged with the full expense after that and City Administrator Jeff Cantrell offered the council a ten-year look ahead on city costs for that position. The offer comes at a time when the city is not offering any pay increases and implementing a hiring freeze. Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho was in favor of the proposal.“I think we send a really strong message as a city, that we’re committed to the ideas of equity and full inclusion of everyone in this community if we fund this position full-time with benefits,” Piros de Carvalho said. “I think we’re in an amazing position, that a private organization has stepped up so we don’t have to subsidize the burden of all of that cost. However, if the city doesn’t feel that the position is worthy of full-time and we’re just doing it because the community foundation is offering this money, I don’t know that’s the message we want to send.”&nbsp;But with the hiring freeze in place, council member Jon Daveline cautioned against the perception such a change might give to other employees.“We have a responsibility and we need to be consistent with making sure we’re whole with all of our personnel,” Daveline said. “And with a hiring freeze and not filling vacancies, I think that’s an underlying message to 400 employees.”Piros de Carvalho noted that the police department was taking on two new positions and wondered what message that sent. But council member Sara Bagwell noted that those positions were already approved in the budget. Bagwell noted she wants to address the Human Relations position but noted that the police positions are needed now.“I want the police things, I think it’s something we absolutely need. I’m not discounting the Human Relations thing, I’m just saying, is there any way we not make a full commitment until the next budget year," Bagwell said. “It’s just so the heat of the moment...I’d feel more comfortable...having more time to evaluate and assess.”The council also noted that if Moore was to be hired full-time that she needed to reside in the city just like other directors within the city government. In the end, the council was in consensus that the position would stay part-time. The council has been able to cut around $5 million from the budget and still maintain a roughly $4 million ending balance.

City Council addresses Human Relations position during budget meeting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Chamber of Commerce announced Wednesday that it has a vacancy on the Public Policy Advisory Committee.

Comprised of eleven members that are appointed by the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber Board of Directors, this committee provides information on relevant legislation that would impact business in Reno County. In addition, the committee provides policy position recommendations and helps facilitate member and general public interaction with elected representatives at all levels of governance.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/advocacy/public-policy-agenda/p/item/2356/20-18-public-policy-agenda">The Public Policy Agenda can be found on the Chamber's website</a>.&nbsp;

If you are interested, send nominations to Chelsey Dawson at <a href="mailto:chelseyd@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a>.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Chamber of Commerce announced Wednesday that it has a vacancy on the Public Policy Advisory Committee.Comprised of eleven members that are appointed by the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber Board of Directors, this committee provides information on relevant legislation that would impact business in Reno County. In addition, the committee provides policy position recommendations and helps facilitate member and general public interaction with elected representatives at all levels of governance.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/advocacy/public-policy-agenda/p/item/2356/20-18-public-policy-agenda">The Public Policy Agenda can be found on the Chamber's website</a>.&nbsp;If you are interested, send nominations to Chelsey Dawson at <a href="mailto:chelseyd@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a>.

Chamber has vacancy on Public Policy Committee

Kroger, parent company of Dillons released new policy Thursday that will mandate masks in its stores beginning July 22.&nbsp; Their statement is below.

"With the increase in COVID-19 cases across the country—as America’s grocer—we are committed to doing our part to help reduce the spread of the virus," the statement said.

"Kroger’s most urgent priority throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been to provide a safe environment for our associates and customers while meeting our societal obligation to provide open stores, ecommerce solutions and an efficiently operating supply chain so that our communities have access to fresh, affordable food and essentials.

"As an employer, grocery provider and community partner, we have a responsibility to help keep our associates, customers and communities safe. According to the CDC, wearing a facial covering, combined with social distancing and frequent handwashing, has been scientifically proven to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Starting July 22, we will require all customers in all locations to wear a mask when shopping in our stores, joining our associates who continue to wear masks. We are taking this extra step now because we recognize additional precautions are needed to protect our country.

"We respect and acknowledge that some customers, due to medical reasons, may not be able to wear a mask (small children are exempt). We encourage those customers to consider an alternative option like a face shield or facial covering. If they’re unable to wear a mask or an alternative design, we request that they use our ecommerce services like pickup or delivery. To support all households during the COVID-19 pandemic, our grocery pickup service remains free (generally a $4.95 fee).

"We thank our associates and customers for partnering with us to slow down the spread of COVID-19."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575583621212.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kroger, parent company of Dillons released new policy Thursday that will mandate masks in its stores beginning July 22.&nbsp; Their statement is below."With the increase in COVID-19 cases across the country—as America’s grocer—we are committed to doing our part to help reduce the spread of the virus," the statement said."Kroger’s most urgent priority throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been to provide a safe environment for our associates and customers while meeting our societal obligation to provide open stores, ecommerce solutions and an efficiently operating supply chain so that our communities have access to fresh, affordable food and essentials."As an employer, grocery provider and community partner, we have a responsibility to help keep our associates, customers and communities safe. According to the CDC, wearing a facial covering, combined with social distancing and frequent handwashing, has been scientifically proven to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Starting July 22, we will require all customers in all locations to wear a mask when shopping in our stores, joining our associates who continue to wear masks. We are taking this extra step now because we recognize additional precautions are needed to protect our country."We respect and acknowledge that some customers, due to medical reasons, may not be able to wear a mask (small children are exempt). We encourage those customers to consider an alternative option like a face shield or facial covering. If they’re unable to wear a mask or an alternative design, we request that they use our ecommerce services like pickup or delivery. To support all households during the COVID-19 pandemic, our grocery pickup service remains free (generally a $4.95 fee)."We thank our associates and customers for partnering with us to slow down the spread of COVID-19."

All Kroger stores to mandate masks starting July 22

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that on Monday, she will sign an executive order to delay opening schools until after the Labor Day holiday.

“I can’t in good conscience open schools when cases in our state are at an all-time high and continuing to rapidly rise,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Every action I have taken throughout this pandemic has been done to keep Kansans healthy, keep our state open for business and get our kids back in school.”

The Governor made this decision in consultation with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Education, which continue to monitor health metrics and disease spread in the state.

On Monday, a record coronavirus spike pushed Kansas past 20,000 total cases. ICU capacity in some of the state’s hospitals are under threat, and nearly 300 Kansans have died.

The Governor will also issue an executive order requiring schools to mandate commonsense mitigation strategies outlined in the Kansas Board of Education’s fall plan for schools. Under the order, masks, social distancing, proper hygiene, and daily temperature checks will be enforced regardless of the Kansas school district.

“The additional three weeks before opening schools will provide schools time to work with their counties to get the necessary mitigation supplies like masks, thermometers, and hand sanitizer,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“The Kansas State Board of Education and I are united in prioritizing the health of our students and faculty, and ensuring we provide a world-class education for our students.”

Further details will be announced next week after the order is released.

The Kansas Board of Education approved “Navigating Change 2020” school reopening document Wednesday morning. It includes:

— Students above fifth grade, staff and school visitors should wear masks

— Everyone should wash hands every hour

— Social distancing of at least six feet should occur wherever possible

— Students and employees who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 should be prohibited from school

— Meal service periods should be extended to allow for fewer students in the serving area at one time

— Staff temperatures should be taken daily

— Families should be responsible to take the temperatures of their children

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594844891982.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly opened her Wednesday news conference in Topeka" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly opened her Wednesday news conference in Topeka</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced that on Monday, she will sign an executive order to delay opening schools until after the Labor Day holiday.“I can’t in good conscience open schools when cases in our state are at an all-time high and continuing to rapidly rise,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Every action I have taken throughout this pandemic has been done to keep Kansans healthy, keep our state open for business and get our kids back in school.”The Governor made this decision in consultation with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Education, which continue to monitor health metrics and disease spread in the state.On Monday, a record coronavirus spike pushed Kansas past 20,000 total cases. ICU capacity in some of the state’s hospitals are under threat, and nearly 300 Kansans have died.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594844055627.png" alt="Kansas Education Commissioner Randy Watson during Wednesday's news conference." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Education Commissioner Randy Watson during Wednesday's news conference.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Governor will also issue an executive order requiring schools to mandate commonsense mitigation strategies outlined in the Kansas Board of Education’s fall plan for schools. Under the order, masks, social distancing, proper hygiene, and daily temperature checks will be enforced regardless of the Kansas school district.“The additional three weeks before opening schools will provide schools time to work with their counties to get the necessary mitigation supplies like masks, thermometers, and hand sanitizer,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“The Kansas State Board of Education and I are united in prioritizing the health of our students and faculty, and ensuring we provide a world-class education for our students.” Further details will be announced next week after the order is released.The Kansas Board of Education approved “Navigating Change 2020” school reopening document Wednesday morning. It includes:— Students above fifth grade, staff and school visitors should wear masks— Everyone should wash hands every hour— Social distancing of at least six feet should occur wherever possible— Students and employees who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 should be prohibited from school— Meal service periods should be extended to allow for fewer students in the serving area at one time— Staff temperatures should be taken daily— Families should be responsible to take the temperatures of their children

Governor: No school in Kan. until after Labor Day, masks required

BUHLER, Kan. — Superintendents are looking over a lot of pages when it comes to the reopening guidelines for education in the state of Kansas. Superintendents were able to get a draft of the Navigating Change plan last week.

Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman was part of the Oversight Committee of the panel put in charge of getting the plan, which is 1,100 pages long, in place.

“About 1,000 pages of that are instructional based, and so that deals with competencies,” Couchman said. “The state department, and educators, and content specialists really looked at our competencies across the state and across each curricular area and grade level area.”

Couchman says it's the final 100 pages or so of the proposal that will likely be of most interest to district patrons.

“About 100 pages are what we call operations. That includes everything from food service to transportation to cleaning protocols,” Couchman said. “Those operations, about 100 pages, is where a lot of people, that I would say, are most concerned about as we look at the safety of opening our buildings.”

No matter what the pandemic throws at them, Couchman says they are confident the school year will happen. How that will look is still a work in progress.

“Every week it changes, every day it changes, so we are making plans at every school . . . for remote learning and for in-person learning,” Couchman stressed. “And Buhler is looking at both of those and is coming up with plans for both options for students who need to stay at home for health reasons and for those students who need to be in our school building.”

Couchman says the district will get a rough draft of plans for the year Thursday and the school board could take action on those plans during a meeting July 27.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594221759837.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostBUHLER, Kan. — Superintendents are looking over a lot of pages when it comes to the reopening guidelines for education in the state of Kansas. Superintendents were able to get a draft of the Navigating Change plan last week.Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman was part of the Oversight Committee of the panel put in charge of getting the plan, which is 1,100 pages long, in place.“About 1,000 pages of that are instructional based, and so that deals with competencies,” Couchman said. “The state department, and educators, and content specialists really looked at our competencies across the state and across each curricular area and grade level area.”Couchman says it's the final 100 pages or so of the proposal that will likely be of most interest to district patrons.“About 100 pages are what we call operations. That includes everything from food service to transportation to cleaning protocols,” Couchman said. “Those operations, about 100 pages, is where a lot of people, that I would say, are most concerned about as we look at the safety of opening our buildings.”No matter what the pandemic throws at them, Couchman says they are confident the school year will happen. How that will look is still a work in progress.“Every week it changes, every day it changes, so we are making plans at every school . . . for remote learning and for in-person learning,” Couchman stressed. “And Buhler is looking at both of those and is coming up with plans for both options for students who need to stay at home for health reasons and for those students who need to be in our school building.”Couchman says the district will get a rough draft of plans for the year Thursday and the school board could take action on those plans during a meeting July 27.

Couchman says USD 313 filtering through Navigating Change initiative

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even before the county rescinded its own ordinance regarding mask wearing, the Chamber of Commerce put out a survey to its members asking how they felt about the matter.

Those results were released and the survey shows that a majority of those who took the survey support that mask wearing be mandated in public places. Sixty-five percent approved of the mandate and 35% disapproved — 430 Chamber members took the survey.

The Chamber wanted to stress that it remains neutral in the matter, although its staff members are required to wear masks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593646235920.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even before the county rescinded its own ordinance regarding mask wearing, the Chamber of Commerce put out a survey to its members asking how they felt about the matter.Those results were released and the survey shows that a majority of those who took the survey support that mask wearing be mandated in public places. Sixty-five percent approved of the mandate and 35% disapproved — 430 Chamber members took the survey.The Chamber wanted to stress that it remains neutral in the matter, although its staff members are required to wear masks.

Chamber survey shows most members favor mandated mask wearing

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Officials with the Pretty Prairie Rodeo have issued a statement ahead of tonight’s event. The rodeo will go on and officials are asking fans to follow proper social distancing and to wear masks while attending.

The rodeo says there have been numerous questions after the most recent mask mandate by the county. The most commonly asked question is regarding the enforcement of the mandate. The rodeo says it does not have the personnel to be able to fairly and consistently enforce the mandate, but will do its best to follow the guidance it has been given. The rodeo is taking the following precautions:

The rodeo asks guests to do what is best for their personal health and the health of the people around them by doing their best to follow the best practices as advised by the state, county and CDC.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591386296762.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Officials with the Pretty Prairie Rodeo have issued a statement ahead of tonight’s event. The rodeo will go on and officials are asking fans to follow proper social distancing and to wear masks while attending.The rodeo says there have been numerous questions after the most recent mask mandate by the county. The most commonly asked question is regarding the enforcement of the mandate. The rodeo says it does not have the personnel to be able to fairly and consistently enforce the mandate, but will do its best to follow the guidance it has been given. The rodeo is taking the following precautions:<ul>
 <li>Online ticketing is available and tickets can be ordered from the ticket office and printed at home. This will help eliminate time spent standing in lines.</li><li>Ticket takers will be positioned behind Plexiglas partitions.</li><li>Masks available for those who do not have them.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Hand sanitizing stations placed around the rodeo grounds.</li><li>Although all tickets are for sale, officials encourage fans to practice social distancing as best they can.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>If you are susceptible to illness or are showing symptoms of infectious disease, please avoid attending the rodeo to assure everyone’s health and safety.</li>
 </ul>The rodeo asks guests to do what is best for their personal health and the health of the people around them by doing their best to follow the best practices as advised by the state, county and CDC.&nbsp;

Pretty Prairie Rodeo asking fans to take precautions


TOPEKA — 
The State Board of Education on Wednesday approved the “Navigating Change 2020” school reopening guidance document on a 9-0 vote. Board member Steve Roberts was not present.

Some of the operating guidance for schools includes:

State Board members made clear that the document did not contain any mandates and should be used only to assist school districts. Local school boards will make decisions on the policy for each district on an individual basis in consultation with local health officers.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588087252662.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
TOPEKA — 
The State Board of Education on Wednesday approved the “Navigating Change 2020” school reopening guidance document on a 9-0 vote. Board member Steve Roberts was not present.Some of the operating guidance for schools includes:— Students above fifth grade, staff and school visitors should wear masks— Everyone should wash hands every hour— Social distancing of at least six feet should occur wherever possible— Students and employees who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 should be prohibited from school— Meal service periods should be extended to allow for fewer students in the serving area at one time— Staff temperatures should be taken daily— Families should be responsible to take the temperatures of their childrenState Board members made clear that the document did not contain any mandates and should be used only to assist school districts. Local school boards will make decisions on the policy for each district on an individual basis in consultation with local health officers.

State school board approves guidance document Wednesday

NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart will require customers to wear face coverings at all of its namesake and Sam’s Club stores, making it the largest retailer to introduce such a policy that has otherwise proven difficult to enforce without state and federal requirements.

The company said the policy will go into effect on Monday to allow time to inform stores and customers. The Bentonville, Arkansas-based company said that currently about 65% of its more than 5,000 stores and clubs are located in areas where there is already some form of government mandate on face coverings.

The retailer also said it will create the role of health ambassador at its Walmart stores and will station them near the entrance to remind customers without masks of its new requirements. These workers, who will be wearing black polo shirts, will receive special training to “help make the process as smooth as possible for customers.”

Walmart joins a growing list of retailers that have instituted mask mandates throughout their chains. Best Buy, the nation’s largest consumer electronics retailer, announced Tuesday that it will have a mask mandate for its customers at all of its stores. Starbucks announced last week that customers who visit its company-owned café locations in the U.S. will be required to wear face coverings. Both policies were in effect Wednesday.

The moves come as new COVID-19 cases are spiking in many states, particularly Arizona, California, Florida and Texas. Retailers have been challenged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/338c74ad760b8795d29bd3927da1cb24">striking a balance</a>&nbsp;between keeping shoppers safe while making them feel comfortable.

Last week, the Retail Industry Leaders Association, which represents Walmart, Best Buy and other major chains,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/80db3dc5dc9a0015bde700266008fe8f">publicized a letter</a>&nbsp;it sent to state governors to mandate store customers to wear face coverings. It said the hodgepodge of rules around the country have created confusion for shoppers and that has led to conflict between customers and workers trying to enforce store rules.

The National Governors Association said last week that its members are discussing the letter and others like it from different retail groups.

Social media is full of videos capturing clashes between those who are asked to wear masks, and employees who are under orders to make sure people wear them.

Fewer than half of U.S. states require masks in public places, according to the RILA. And only a handful of major retailers including teen clothing chain American Eagle Outfitters has a mask mandate for customers for all of its stores. Costco Wholesale Club was one of the first major retailers to require face coverings for customers at all of its stores. The policy went into effect in early May.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people cover their mouth and nose when around other people to help reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.

“We know some people have differing opinions on this topic,” wrote Dacona Smith, chief operating officer at Walmart U.S. and Lance de la Rosa, chief operating officer at Sam’s Club in a blog posted Wednesday. “We also recognize the role we can play to help protect the health and well-being of the communities we serve by following the evolving guidance of health officials like the CDC.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594829714989.png" alt="Customers wait to enter a Kansas Walmart store" />
 <figcaption>Customers wait to enter a Kansas Walmart store</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart will require customers to wear face coverings at all of its namesake and Sam’s Club stores, making it the largest retailer to introduce such a policy that has otherwise proven difficult to enforce without state and federal requirements.The company said the policy will go into effect on Monday to allow time to inform stores and customers. The Bentonville, Arkansas-based company said that currently about 65% of its more than 5,000 stores and clubs are located in areas where there is already some form of government mandate on face coverings.The retailer also said it will create the role of health ambassador at its Walmart stores and will station them near the entrance to remind customers without masks of its new requirements. These workers, who will be wearing black polo shirts, will receive special training to “help make the process as smooth as possible for customers.”Walmart joins a growing list of retailers that have instituted mask mandates throughout their chains. Best Buy, the nation’s largest consumer electronics retailer, announced Tuesday that it will have a mask mandate for its customers at all of its stores. Starbucks announced last week that customers who visit its company-owned café locations in the U.S. will be required to wear face coverings. Both policies were in effect Wednesday.The moves come as new COVID-19 cases are spiking in many states, particularly Arizona, California, Florida and Texas. Retailers have been challenged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/338c74ad760b8795d29bd3927da1cb24">striking a balance</a>&nbsp;between keeping shoppers safe while making them feel comfortable.Last week, the Retail Industry Leaders Association, which represents Walmart, Best Buy and other major chains,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/80db3dc5dc9a0015bde700266008fe8f">publicized a letter</a>&nbsp;it sent to state governors to mandate store customers to wear face coverings. It said the hodgepodge of rules around the country have created confusion for shoppers and that has led to conflict between customers and workers trying to enforce store rules.The National Governors Association said last week that its members are discussing the letter and others like it from different retail groups.Social media is full of videos capturing clashes between those who are asked to wear masks, and employees who are under orders to make sure people wear them.Fewer than half of U.S. states require masks in public places, according to the RILA. And only a handful of major retailers including teen clothing chain American Eagle Outfitters has a mask mandate for customers for all of its stores. Costco Wholesale Club was one of the first major retailers to require face coverings for customers at all of its stores. The policy went into effect in early May.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people cover their mouth and nose when around other people to help reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.“We know some people have differing opinions on this topic,” wrote Dacona Smith, chief operating officer at Walmart U.S. and Lance de la Rosa, chief operating officer at Sam’s Club in a blog posted Wednesday. “We also recognize the role we can play to help protect the health and well-being of the communities we serve by following the evolving guidance of health officials like the CDC.”___