
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United Way of Reno County is joining with Allen Samuels and the Evolution Car Show for a school supply drive Friday night.

"Especially if kiddos end up being at home some and doing some of their school, they're not going to have the benefit of being in a school and having some of those supplies already on hand," said Lisa Gleason with the United Way of Reno County. "I just think now more than ever, we need to be able to help our families support our kids. We feel that doing a back to school supply drive is the right thing to be doing right now."

The underlying event is on Main Street Friday.

"The car show is going to be doing drives up and down Main with their fun cars all from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.," Gleason said. "During that time period, we will be out in front of the United Way collecting back to school supplies."

Find the supply lists at local merchants. You can also donate backpacks to the cause.

"We would love if people would donate backpacks," Gleason said. "Preferably, we would like new backpacks. We believe all kids deserve something nice to start out."

A backpack and school supplies for one student costs around $30.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United Way of Reno County is joining with Allen Samuels and the Evolution Car Show for a school supply drive Friday night."Especially if kiddos end up being at home some and doing some of their school, they're not going to have the benefit of being in a school and having some of those supplies already on hand," said Lisa Gleason with the United Way of Reno County. "I just think now more than ever, we need to be able to help our families support our kids. We feel that doing a back to school supply drive is the right thing to be doing right now."The underlying event is on Main Street Friday."The car show is going to be doing drives up and down Main with their fun cars all from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.," Gleason said. "During that time period, we will be out in front of the United Way collecting back to school supplies."Find the supply lists at local merchants. You can also donate backpacks to the cause."We would love if people would donate backpacks," Gleason said. "Preferably, we would like new backpacks. We believe all kids deserve something nice to start out."A backpack and school supplies for one student costs around $30.

Reno County United Way collecting school supplies Friday night


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Deputy Elections Official Jenna Fager notes that the effort to get more absentee ballot applications in this time around appears to have been successful, as they start sending out ballots Wednesday.

"We will be sending out 5254 advance ballots," Fager said. "Those are all going to go out. If you did reply for one, you'll be receiving it here shortly. In 2016, we looked back at the numbers, and I believe it was 853 that we sent out."

You still need to get the ballot back in a timely manner.

"The postage will be paid on that," Fager said. "It will need to be in our office, or at least postmarked by election day."

Primary election day is Tuesday, August 4.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Deputy Elections Official Jenna Fager notes that the effort to get more absentee ballot applications in this time around appears to have been successful, as they start sending out ballots Wednesday."We will be sending out 5254 advance ballots," Fager said. "Those are all going to go out. If you did reply for one, you'll be receiving it here shortly. In 2016, we looked back at the numbers, and I believe it was 853 that we sent out."You still need to get the ballot back in a timely manner."The postage will be paid on that," Fager said. "It will need to be in our office, or at least postmarked by election day."Primary election day is Tuesday, August 4.

Fager: Lots more advance ballots this year in Reno County


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A spokesperson for Dillons released a statement Tuesday on their parent company Kroger's policy to deal with the nation's coin shortage.

"The Federal Reserve is experiencing a significant coin shortage across the U.S., resulting from fewer coins being exchanged and spent during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Sheila Lowrie with Dillons. "Like many retailers and businesses, we are adjusting to the temporary shortage in several ways.

"Customers can switch their payment type (e.g., use debit or credit vs. cash), and through our upgraded technology, we can now load coin change to their loyalty card for use during the next shopping trip, provide coin change at a lane with coins available or round up their order to support The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation, a public charity committed to creating communities free of hunger and waste.

"We remain committed to providing our customers with an uplifting shopping experience and the freedom and flexibility to choose their payment method during this unprecedented time."

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A spokesperson for Dillons released a statement Tuesday on their parent company Kroger's policy to deal with the nation's coin shortage."The Federal Reserve is experiencing a significant coin shortage across the U.S., resulting from fewer coins being exchanged and spent during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Sheila Lowrie with Dillons. "Like many retailers and businesses, we are adjusting to the temporary shortage in several ways."Customers can switch their payment type (e.g., use debit or credit vs. cash), and through our upgraded technology, we can now load coin change to their loyalty card for use during the next shopping trip, provide coin change at a lane with coins available or round up their order to support The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation, a public charity committed to creating communities free of hunger and waste."We remain committed to providing our customers with an uplifting shopping experience and the freedom and flexibility to choose their payment method during this unprecedented time."

Statement released on Kroger coin policy Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson woman who entered guilty pleas to five different drug counts will be sentenced Thursday morning in Reno County District Court. A sentencing hearing is set for 46-year-old Jennie Wallace before Judge Tim Chambers.

Wallace entered the guilty plea to possession of meth with intent to sell, conspiracy, and two additional counts of possession of meth with intent to distribute. She was also convicted of aggravated child endangerment. A count of possession of heroin was dismissed.

The most serious charges could mean a prison sentence of 11 to 17 years. The defense will get to ask for less time for Wallace at sentencing.

Wallace may still face federal charges stemming from a package that was intercepted by the U.S. Postal Service. The package, addressed to Wallace, contained six pounds of meth. 

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson woman who entered guilty pleas to five different drug counts will be sentenced Thursday morning in Reno County District Court. A sentencing hearing is set for 46-year-old Jennie Wallace before Judge Tim Chambers.Wallace entered the guilty plea to possession of meth with intent to sell, conspiracy, and two additional counts of possession of meth with intent to distribute. She was also convicted of aggravated child endangerment. A count of possession of heroin was dismissed.The most serious charges could mean a prison sentence of 11 to 17 years. The defense will get to ask for less time for Wallace at sentencing.Wallace may still face federal charges stemming from a package that was intercepted by the U.S. Postal Service. The package, addressed to Wallace, contained six pounds of meth. The hearing is set for 9 a.m.

Wallace sentencing Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Severe Thunderstorms that rolled through early Wednesday morning left behind some scattered power outages and some minor damage across central Kansas, including in Reno County. 

The Evergy outage map still had around 30 different small outages as of 5:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Also, law enforcement reported tree limbs down in Hutchinson at 1:49 a.m. Water was briefly over the road on Highway 14 near Lyons.

A wind gust was measured at the McPherson Airport of 68 mph at 2:11 a.m. Power poles were knocked down two miles east northeast of McPherson and semi trailers were blown off of I-135 near exit 60 as a result of that storm.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Severe Thunderstorms that rolled through early Wednesday morning left behind some scattered power outages and some minor damage across central Kansas, including in Reno County. The Evergy outage map still had around 30 different small outages as of 5:30 a.m. Wednesday.Also, law enforcement reported tree limbs down in Hutchinson at 1:49 a.m. Water was briefly over the road on Highway 14 near Lyons.A wind gust was measured at the McPherson Airport of 68 mph at 2:11 a.m. Power poles were knocked down two miles east northeast of McPherson and semi trailers were blown off of I-135 near exit 60 as a result of that storm.

Storms roll through early Wednesday, leave damage, power outages


CLOUD COUNTY — 
Two Hutchinson residents were killed in an accident in Cloud County Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 67-year-old Micheal Eugene Kaufman and 67-year-old Delinda Lea Kaufman were riding their 2008 Suzuki VL800 motorcycle around 2:45 p.m. Tuesday and attempting to negotiate the curve on K-9 highway three miles west of Concordia when they struck a 2013 Chevy Silverado driven by 45-year-old Matthew Curtis Blad of Beloit.

Blad was not transported from the scene. The Kaufmans were both taken to Nutter Mortuary.

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CLOUD COUNTY — 
Two Hutchinson residents were killed in an accident in Cloud County Tuesday afternoon.According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 67-year-old Micheal Eugene Kaufman and 67-year-old Delinda Lea Kaufman were riding their 2008 Suzuki VL800 motorcycle around 2:45 p.m. Tuesday and attempting to negotiate the curve on K-9 highway three miles west of Concordia when they struck a 2013 Chevy Silverado driven by 45-year-old Matthew Curtis Blad of Beloit.Blad was not transported from the scene. The Kaufmans were both taken to Nutter Mortuary.

Hutchinson residents killed in Cloud County accident Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The news about the percentage of tested COVID-19 patients turning up positive was not what the County Commission or health officials wanted to hear. With the increase in the positive testing rate jumping from less than 3% to as much as 16% in some areas, many feel steps need to be taken — such as the mandated mask ordinance that is in place by the state. 

If the numbers increase, it could start to put a strain on the healthcare system. Dr. Rex Degner with Hutchinson Regional Medical Center again emphasized, as many at the facility have during the pandemic, that right now they have more than enough space, but that also means keeping a close eye on neighboring counties.

“We have arrangements with other hospitals that we can offload some of our non-COVID patients if we need to and potentially some of our COVID patients,” Degner said. “Of course, if the entire state has a spike, then everybody’s in the same boat, but that’s a situation we watch across the state as well.”

Dr. Degner says they also have a good supply of available ventilators if needed.

“Worst case scenario, we can run up to 40 ventilators at one time with the . . . staff to do it,” Degner said. “We’re not there, but we have . . . capacity to handle this should we need to.”

Degner says they also are sitting well when it comes to supplies, although there is one item in short supply.

“N-95 masks, the most protective ones, we had a burn rate of 25 yesterday (Monday), but we have about 14,000 in-house,” Degner noted. “Regular masks . . . we had a burn rate of about 250 (Monday), we have about 45,900 on-hand.” 

Degner says the only thing they are short of is gloves, but they are in the supply line. Degner says there are staff members who have tested positive for COVID-19 and others who are taking precautions by working from home.

“We have three out on observation, one awaiting results, and we have a dozen working from home still for various health reasons, but for right now, we seem to be OK,” Degner said. “It appears the few positive cases we’ve had on staff were probably community-acquired and not hospital-acquired.”

Degner says another problem with the virus is that it kept people with other non-COVID illnesses away from medical care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594758211781.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The news about the percentage of tested COVID-19 patients turning up positive was not what the County Commission or health officials wanted to hear. With the increase in the positive testing rate jumping from less than 3% to as much as 16% in some areas, many feel steps need to be taken — such as the mandated mask ordinance that is in place by the state. If the numbers increase, it could start to put a strain on the healthcare system. Dr. Rex Degner with Hutchinson Regional Medical Center again emphasized, as many at the facility have during the pandemic, that right now they have more than enough space, but that also means keeping a close eye on neighboring counties.“We have arrangements with other hospitals that we can offload some of our non-COVID patients if we need to and potentially some of our COVID patients,” Degner said. “Of course, if the entire state has a spike, then everybody’s in the same boat, but that’s a situation we watch across the state as well.”Dr. Degner says they also have a good supply of available ventilators if needed.“Worst case scenario, we can run up to 40 ventilators at one time with the . . . staff to do it,” Degner said. “We’re not there, but we have . . . capacity to handle this should we need to.”Degner says they also are sitting well when it comes to supplies, although there is one item in short supply.“N-95 masks, the most protective ones, we had a burn rate of 25 yesterday (Monday), but we have about 14,000 in-house,” Degner noted. “Regular masks . . . we had a burn rate of about 250 (Monday), we have about 45,900 on-hand.” Degner says the only thing they are short of is gloves, but they are in the supply line. Degner says there are staff members who have tested positive for COVID-19 and others who are taking precautions by working from home.“We have three out on observation, one awaiting results, and we have a dozen working from home still for various health reasons, but for right now, we seem to be OK,” Degner said. “It appears the few positive cases we’ve had on staff were probably community-acquired and not hospital-acquired.”Degner says another problem with the virus is that it kept people with other non-COVID illnesses away from medical care.

Hospital gives update to commissioners on pandemic readiness


STAFFORD COUNTY — 
A Tuesday evening accident killed one person and sent six others to the hospital in Stafford County.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, around 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, a 2008 Dodge Magnum driven by 38-year-old Seth R. Osborn of Wichita was eastbound on K-19 and failed to yield at the stop sign with U.S. 281. A 2012 Chrysler Town and Country driven by 28-year-old Andrea M McKiearnan of St. John hit the Magnum. The car ended up in the ditch, with the van in a field on its passenger side.

Seventy-three-year-old Judy M. McKiearnan of Louisburg, a passenger in the van, was killed in the accident. Osborn and the van's other five occupants, including Andrea McKiernan, were taken to a hospital in Great Bend for treatment. 

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STAFFORD COUNTY — 
A Tuesday evening accident killed one person and sent six others to the hospital in Stafford County.According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, around 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, a 2008 Dodge Magnum driven by 38-year-old Seth R. Osborn of Wichita was eastbound on K-19 and failed to yield at the stop sign with U.S. 281. A 2012 Chrysler Town and Country driven by 28-year-old Andrea M McKiearnan of St. John hit the Magnum. The car ended up in the ditch, with the van in a field on its passenger side.Seventy-three-year-old Judy M. McKiearnan of Louisburg, a passenger in the van, was killed in the accident. Osborn and the van's other five occupants, including Andrea McKiernan, were taken to a hospital in Great Bend for treatment.

One killed, six hurt in Stafford County accident Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It’s hard to know what activities will be held and what will be canceled with the pandemic, but Hutch Rec announced that entries are being taken for the annual Salty Dog Triathlon Aug. 8.

The popular event will have participants swim 400 meters in the pool, bike 10.5 miles on a course closed to vehicles and run 3.1 miles on a paved trail. The entire event is held within Carey Park. The event is chip-timed, which assists with the accuracy of each leg, transition and overall results.

There will be awards after the event and all participants will receive a finisher's medal, plus awards for the overall male/female finishers and top three male/female finishers in selected age groups.

Hutch Rec says it has every intention of having this event. If it is canceled because of COVID-19, a refund will be issued.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It’s hard to know what activities will be held and what will be canceled with the pandemic, but Hutch Rec announced that entries are being taken for the annual Salty Dog Triathlon Aug. 8.The popular event will have participants swim 400 meters in the pool, bike 10.5 miles on a course closed to vehicles and run 3.1 miles on a paved trail. The entire event is held within Carey Park. The event is chip-timed, which assists with the accuracy of each leg, transition and overall results.There will be awards after the event and all participants will receive a finisher's medal, plus awards for the overall male/female finishers and top three male/female finishers in selected age groups.Hutch Rec says it has every intention of having this event. If it is canceled because of COVID-19, a refund will be issued.

Hutch Rec taking entries for Salty Dog event

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson announced Tuesday that they will close several city buildings int he wake of the COVID-19 surge. &nbsp;Starting tomorrow Hutchinson City Hall, the animal shelter, public works and the parks and facilities office will be closed.

The Hutchinson Zoo, Carey Park Golf Course, Hutchinson Regional Airport, City parks and splash pads, and rental facilities are not being closed at this time.&nbsp;

City Council meetings will take place at City Hall as scheduled, however, City Hall will remain closed to the public.&nbsp; To stream City Council meetings, please go to the city's YouTube channel, the City’s Facebook page, or watch on Channel 7. You can still reach all council members via phone or email, their contact information is posted at <a href="http://www.hutchgov.com/254/City-Council">http://www.hutchgov.com/254/City-Council</a> City board and committee meetings will be taken on a case-by-case basis. Essential meetings will take place remotely. Please follow the city website, Facebook page and agenda center for updates on how to access those meetings as they come up.

The City is encouraging water utility customers to use the following services to pay utility bills:

• Visit water waterbill.hutchgov.com to pay your bill online&nbsp;

• For help in setting up online bill pay, please visit www.hutchgov.com/536/Online-Bill-Pay-Help

• Those who prefer paying with a check can use the drop box on the south side of City Hall, 125 East Ave B, or mail their payment to the same address. To talk with a customer service representative, call 620-694-2621 between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

For questions or concerns about any of these closures or changes, please call City Hall at (620) 694-2611.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson announced Tuesday that they will close several city buildings int he wake of the COVID-19 surge. &nbsp;Starting tomorrow Hutchinson City Hall, the animal shelter, public works and the parks and facilities office will be closed.The Hutchinson Zoo, Carey Park Golf Course, Hutchinson Regional Airport, City parks and splash pads, and rental facilities are not being closed at this time.&nbsp;City Council meetings will take place at City Hall as scheduled, however, City Hall will remain closed to the public.&nbsp; To stream City Council meetings, please go to the city's YouTube channel, the City’s Facebook page, or watch on Channel 7. You can still reach all council members via phone or email, their contact information is posted at <a href="http://www.hutchgov.com/254/City-Council">http://www.hutchgov.com/254/City-Council</a> City board and committee meetings will be taken on a case-by-case basis. Essential meetings will take place remotely. Please follow the city website, Facebook page and agenda center for updates on how to access those meetings as they come up.The City is encouraging water utility customers to use the following services to pay utility bills:• Visit water waterbill.hutchgov.com to pay your bill online&nbsp;• For help in setting up online bill pay, please visit www.hutchgov.com/536/Online-Bill-Pay-Help• Call 620-694-2621 to pay by phone• Those who prefer paying with a check can use the drop box on the south side of City Hall, 125 East Ave B, or mail their payment to the same address. To talk with a customer service representative, call 620-694-2621 between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.For questions or concerns about any of these closures or changes, please call City Hall at (620) 694-2611.

BREAKING: Some city offices to close again

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

NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Commission also rescinded their mask order and went with the state mandate during their meeting on Tuesday.

Face masks will now be required throughout Harvey County beginning Wednesday, July 15 at 12:01 a.m. after the Commission unanimously voted to implement a county-wide order.

The Commission previously rescinded Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly’s Executive Order 20-52 at a special meeting July 2. The Commission agreed at that time to review the decision over the coming weeks.

The order requires individuals to wear a face mask over their nose and mouth in any indoor or outdoor public space where social distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained at all times.

The order allows for some exceptions, such as children 5 years old and younger, individuals that are deaf or hard of hearing, and individuals with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents them from wearing a face cover. There are no criminal or financial penalties included in the order.

The County remains in the Phase Out guidance of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan. The plan does not limit mass gathering size. However, social distancing and hygiene protocols are encouraged.

Harvey County has had 95 COVID-19 cases to date, including 91 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 41 known active cases in Harvey County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584475841056.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Commission also rescinded their mask order and went with the state mandate during their meeting on Tuesday.Face masks will now be required throughout Harvey County beginning Wednesday, July 15 at 12:01 a.m. after the Commission unanimously voted to implement a county-wide order.The Commission previously rescinded Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly’s Executive Order 20-52 at a special meeting July 2. The Commission agreed at that time to review the decision over the coming weeks.The order requires individuals to wear a face mask over their nose and mouth in any indoor or outdoor public space where social distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained at all times.The order allows for some exceptions, such as children 5 years old and younger, individuals that are deaf or hard of hearing, and individuals with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents them from wearing a face cover. There are no criminal or financial penalties included in the order.The County remains in the Phase Out guidance of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan. The plan does not limit mass gathering size. However, social distancing and hygiene protocols are encouraged.Harvey County has had 95 COVID-19 cases to date, including 91 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 41 known active cases in Harvey County.

Harvey Co. goes with state mask mandate


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Three medical professionals from Hutchinson painted a bleak picture of the COVID-19 spread among residents during Tuesday’s County Commission meeting. For now, they feel they have the capacity to handle the situation, but they don't want that to change.

With that information, the County Commission rescinded its own ordinance regarding mask-wearing, thus putting the governor’s mandate in place.&nbsp; Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti said that, while he is not one to make demands on the public, the rapidly increasing number of positive cases of COVID-19 is forcing him to do so.

“The actions we take now are only going to see the ramifications three or four weeks down the road,” Baldetti said. “I think, as you’ve heard from everyone who spoke today, that certainly we’re trending in the wrong direction.”

Baldetti was joined by Dr. Rex Degner of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Dr. Regina Johnson of Prairie Star Health Center and Dr. Scott Pauly of the Hutchinson Clinic. All three talked about rapidly increasing numbers and the percentage of positive cases per tests is jumping above 10%. Pauly noted that the numbers currently in the county are now above where they were when schools and businesses were shut down.

“We are in a situation where we thought we didn’t want to be back in April, in May,” Pauly said. “To the point where the governor was closing schools, at the point, we were closing up shop, restaurants were closed. We do need to flatten the curve, but I think we’re at a more critical junction now than we were then.”

As far as the ability for the hospital to care for the increasing numbers, Degner says they are currently able to handle anything that comes their way at this time.

“We have a plan that is very scalable for a surge that we have developed,” Degner stressed. “We still feel we’ll be able to staff this up and scale this up should we need to.”&nbsp;

Degner says they also have enough PPE to keep them going at a constant 60 to 90 day supply.&nbsp;

Not all of the commission was in agreement with the mandate. During the discussion, Commissioner Ron Hirst questioned the ability to enforce the mandate and asked Sellers about not wearing a mask, which was met with a blunt response.

“I think you’re making a statement to the community about how you feel about the community to be quite blunt,” Sellers said. “If you don’t want the community to prosper, for kids to go to school in a month, don’t wear your mask.”

Hutchinson Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho also stressed that small businesses in the city are becoming concerned over the lack of mask-wearing as they want to protect both their business and their staff. 

Several others spoke out against the mandate saying it wasn’t necessary.

The vote was 2-1 with Commissioner Ron Hirst voting no.

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By
ROD ZOOK
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Three medical professionals from Hutchinson painted a bleak picture of the COVID-19 spread among residents during Tuesday’s County Commission meeting. For now, they feel they have the capacity to handle the situation, but they don't want that to change.With that information, the County Commission rescinded its own ordinance regarding mask-wearing, thus putting the governor’s mandate in place.&nbsp; Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti said that, while he is not one to make demands on the public, the rapidly increasing number of positive cases of COVID-19 is forcing him to do so.“The actions we take now are only going to see the ramifications three or four weeks down the road,” Baldetti said. “I think, as you’ve heard from everyone who spoke today, that certainly we’re trending in the wrong direction.”Baldetti was joined by Dr. Rex Degner of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Dr. Regina Johnson of Prairie Star Health Center and Dr. Scott Pauly of the Hutchinson Clinic. All three talked about rapidly increasing numbers and the percentage of positive cases per tests is jumping above 10%. Pauly noted that the numbers currently in the county are now above where they were when schools and businesses were shut down.“We are in a situation where we thought we didn’t want to be back in April, in May,” Pauly said. “To the point where the governor was closing schools, at the point, we were closing up shop, restaurants were closed. We do need to flatten the curve, but I think we’re at a more critical junction now than we were then.”As far as the ability for the hospital to care for the increasing numbers, Degner says they are currently able to handle anything that comes their way at this time.“We have a plan that is very scalable for a surge that we have developed,” Degner stressed. “We still feel we’ll be able to staff this up and scale this up should we need to.”&nbsp;Degner says they also have enough PPE to keep them going at a constant 60 to 90 day supply.&nbsp;Not all of the commission was in agreement with the mandate. During the discussion, Commissioner Ron Hirst questioned the ability to enforce the mandate and asked Sellers about not wearing a mask, which was met with a blunt response.“I think you’re making a statement to the community about how you feel about the community to be quite blunt,” Sellers said. “If you don’t want the community to prosper, for kids to go to school in a month, don’t wear your mask.”Hutchinson Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho also stressed that small businesses in the city are becoming concerned over the lack of mask-wearing as they want to protect both their business and their staff. Several others spoke out against the mandate saying it wasn’t necessary.The vote was 2-1 with Commissioner Ron Hirst voting no.

With numbers surging, Reno County Commission goes with state mask order


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Deputy Election Officer Jenna Fager notes that advance voting starts Wednesday at the Reno County Annex.

"Our normal hours will be between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.," Fager said Tuesday. "Tomorrow, we will be open until 7 p.m. We'll be open until 7 p.m. on every Wednesday up until the election."

There will also be voting on Saturdays at the annex from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

"It's a partisan primary," Fager said. "If you're Republican, you can participate, if you're a Democrat, you can participate. If you're unaffiliated, you will be required to affiliate at the polls and you can do that when you go in to vote."

If you haven't registered to vote, Tuesday is the deadline.

"They will need to have that registration completed," Fager said. "They just need to be 18 by the day of election."

Absentee ballots will begin being mailed out Wednesday.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571419575847.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Deputy Election Officer Jenna Fager notes that advance voting starts Wednesday at the Reno County Annex."Our normal hours will be between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.," Fager said Tuesday. "Tomorrow, we will be open until 7 p.m. We'll be open until 7 p.m. on every Wednesday up until the election."There will also be voting on Saturdays at the annex from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m."It's a partisan primary," Fager said. "If you're Republican, you can participate, if you're a Democrat, you can participate. If you're unaffiliated, you will be required to affiliate at the polls and you can do that when you go in to vote."If you haven't registered to vote, Tuesday is the deadline."They will need to have that registration completed," Fager said. "They just need to be 18 by the day of election."Absentee ballots will begin being mailed out Wednesday.

Advance voting starts Wednesday in Reno County

NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed the death of a Harvey County resident attributed to COVID-19.

The resident, a man in his 70s, had been hospitalized with COVID-19. He died Saturday.

This is the third death of a Harvey County resident with COVID-19. A female in her 30s died April 9. Her cause of death was defined as acute leukemia. 

A female in her 50s died April 6. She was determined probable for COVID-19 because the case met clinical criteria with a presumptive-positive lab test for blood work, but was negative in nasal swab testing for an active COVID-19 virus.

Additionally, the Health Department has confirmed 14 new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:

· A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation.

· A female in her 20s. She is a close contact of a known active case.

· A female between 10-and-19 years old. This case is under investigation.

· A male in his 60s. He is hospitalized. This case is under investigation.

· A male in his 60s. This case is under investigation.

· A male in his 50s. He is a close contact of a known active case. He has already met recovery criteria.

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

· A male in his 30s. He is a close contact of a known active case.

· A male in his 20s. He is a close contact of a known active case.

· A male between 10-and-19 years old. His source of exposure is unknown.

Thirteen of the individuals are in home isolation.

Harvey County has had 95 COVID-19 cases to date, including 91 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 41 known active cases in Harvey County. Two individuals are hospitalized. There have been 2,529 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593790914635.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed the death of a Harvey County resident attributed to COVID-19.The resident, a man in his 70s, had been hospitalized with COVID-19. He died Saturday.This is the third death of a Harvey County resident with COVID-19. A female in her 30s died April 9. Her cause of death was defined as acute leukemia. A female in her 50s died April 6. She was determined probable for COVID-19 because the case met clinical criteria with a presumptive-positive lab test for blood work, but was negative in nasal swab testing for an active COVID-19 virus.Additionally, the Health Department has confirmed 14 new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:· A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation.· A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation.· A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation.· A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation.· A female in her 20s. She is a close contact of a known active case.· A female between 10-and-19 years old. This case is under investigation.· A female between 10-and-19 years old. This case is under investigation.· A male in his 60s. He is hospitalized. This case is under investigation.· A male in his 60s. This case is under investigation.· A male in his 50s. He is a close contact of a known active case. He has already met recovery criteria.· A male in his 40s. He is a close contact of a known active case.· A male in his 30s. He is a close contact of a known active case.· A male in his 20s. He is a close contact of a known active case.· A male between 10-and-19 years old. His source of exposure is unknown.Thirteen of the individuals are in home isolation.Harvey County has had 95 COVID-19 cases to date, including 91 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 41 known active cases in Harvey County. Two individuals are hospitalized. There have been 2,529 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

Harvey County confirms COVID-19 death, 14 new cases


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A fundraiser is taking place this weekend for the Reno County Veterans Memorial.

"It's a memorial out at the K96 and K61 intersection in South Hutchinson," said Kelly Danyluk, President of the Reno County Veteran's Memorial. "It's going to honor our veterans of Reno County that have served in the military from the Civil War through today, during peacetime or during wartime. We have compiled about somewhere between 14,000 and 15,000 names of Reno County veterans. We're in the process right now of putting names on granite and hopefully we'll have the granite walls hung sometime prior to October."

The fundraiser is a poker run presented by Bretz &amp; Young Injury Lawyers.

"We saw it in the news, or heard it in the news a few months ago, that they were in the final stages of the veteran's memorial and needed to raise funds for the panels that listed all the veterans names," said Matt Bretz. "It seemed like a good project to do. We're just excited to be able to do it and to be able to ride motorcycles at the same time. It's like a win-win situation."

The poker run will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Bretz &amp; Young at 3 Compound Drive, with stand up at 9 a.m. 

"An entry fee will be $25," Bretz said. "They can play more than one hand if they want. They'll go to several different sites in Reno County and down into Kingman as well, and at each place collect a card and then the person who collects the best hand is the winner."

Stops are at Ray Ray's Cycle in Buhler, Bobz Bikez in Kingman, Cara's Cafe and Pizzeria in Arlington, at the memorial and at Salty Cycles in Hutchinson. Half of the money raised will go to the memorial, with the winner getting 30% and the second best hand getting 20%. If there would be a tie, the winner would be determined by the time turned in.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594726004726.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A fundraiser is taking place this weekend for the Reno County Veterans Memorial."It's a memorial out at the K96 and K61 intersection in South Hutchinson," said Kelly Danyluk, President of the Reno County Veteran's Memorial. "It's going to honor our veterans of Reno County that have served in the military from the Civil War through today, during peacetime or during wartime. We have compiled about somewhere between 14,000 and 15,000 names of Reno County veterans. We're in the process right now of putting names on granite and hopefully we'll have the granite walls hung sometime prior to October."The fundraiser is a poker run presented by Bretz &amp; Young Injury Lawyers."We saw it in the news, or heard it in the news a few months ago, that they were in the final stages of the veteran's memorial and needed to raise funds for the panels that listed all the veterans names," said Matt Bretz. "It seemed like a good project to do. We're just excited to be able to do it and to be able to ride motorcycles at the same time. It's like a win-win situation."The poker run will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Bretz &amp; Young at 3 Compound Drive, with stand up at 9 a.m. "An entry fee will be $25," Bretz said. "They can play more than one hand if they want. They'll go to several different sites in Reno County and down into Kingman as well, and at each place collect a card and then the person who collects the best hand is the winner."Stops are at Ray Ray's Cycle in Buhler, Bobz Bikez in Kingman, Cara's Cafe and Pizzeria in Arlington, at the memorial and at Salty Cycles in Hutchinson. Half of the money raised will go to the memorial, with the winner getting 30% and the second best hand getting 20%. If there would be a tie, the winner would be determined by the time turned in.

Saturday Poker Run to benefit Reno County Veterans Memorial

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/c3eff946-f9de-4642-a938-05ad0d13f941">When the Kansas State Fair board canceled this year’s fair on Monday</a>, officials began work to put together a special livestock show in its place. On Monday afternoon, the fair announced just that.&nbsp;

While there will not be a 2020 Kansas State Fair, the fair will have 4-H and FFA youth livestock competitions, plus open class livestock exhibitions in September. The board is also considering having youth static competitions. The board will reconvene Aug. 4 to gather more information.

Livestock events begin Thursday, Sept. 3, and continue for three weekends, ending Sunday, Sept. 20. Event rules will be modified.

Grand Drive: FFA and 4-H youth from across the state compete to be the best of the best in this premier Kansas livestock competition. The Grand Drive is Sept. 11-13 and features the market beef, sheep, swine and goat shows. These shows are closed to outside spectators but can be viewed on Walton Webcasting. The event is sponsored by Midwest Ford and other great partners.

Deadline to enter the Grand Drive is July 15.

Champion Livestock Show: The Kansas State Fair is partnering with Special Olympics Kansas to introduce a new event: the Champion Livestock Show. The competition takes place at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11.

Ten athletes will be selected by Special Olympics and paired with 4-H or FFA members to show a meat goat. The athletes will have time to work with their mentor and animal the morning of the event. Open Range Trailer Sales and Services and Cimarron Trailers is the event sponsor. Key Apparel will provide T-shirts for participating competitors and mentor exhibitors. This show is closed to outside spectators but can be viewed on Walton Webcasting.

Mustang Days: Youth train untamed yearlings in the Mustang Beginnings Youth Challenge. They work to gentle the Bureau of Land Management wild horses over the summer then demonstrate their training skills. The event is Sept. 12-13.

Supreme Drive: The Supreme Drive recognizes the best bull and female of each breed in the open beef shows. The event is Sept. 19.

4-H Horse Show: This annual event will occur Sept. 17-20.

Many of these events will happen this year thanks to the fair’s great partnership with 4-H and FFA and these organizations’ staff and volunteers. This includes the fair’s Grand Drive event.

All shows will be closed to the public to help create a safe event. Entry deadline is July 15 for the 4-H/FFA Grand Drive and Aug. 15 for all open livestock shows.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594650625292.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/c3eff946-f9de-4642-a938-05ad0d13f941">When the Kansas State Fair board canceled this year’s fair on Monday</a>, officials began work to put together a special livestock show in its place. On Monday afternoon, the fair announced just that.&nbsp;While there will not be a 2020 Kansas State Fair, the fair will have 4-H and FFA youth livestock competitions, plus open class livestock exhibitions in September. The board is also considering having youth static competitions. The board will reconvene Aug. 4 to gather more information.Livestock events begin Thursday, Sept. 3, and continue for three weekends, ending Sunday, Sept. 20. Event rules will be modified.Competitions include:Grand Drive: FFA and 4-H youth from across the state compete to be the best of the best in this premier Kansas livestock competition. The Grand Drive is Sept. 11-13 and features the market beef, sheep, swine and goat shows. These shows are closed to outside spectators but can be viewed on Walton Webcasting. The event is sponsored by Midwest Ford and other great partners.Deadline to enter the Grand Drive is July 15.Champion Livestock Show: The Kansas State Fair is partnering with Special Olympics Kansas to introduce a new event: the Champion Livestock Show. The competition takes place at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11.Ten athletes will be selected by Special Olympics and paired with 4-H or FFA members to show a meat goat. The athletes will have time to work with their mentor and animal the morning of the event. Open Range Trailer Sales and Services and Cimarron Trailers is the event sponsor. Key Apparel will provide T-shirts for participating competitors and mentor exhibitors. This show is closed to outside spectators but can be viewed on Walton Webcasting.Mustang Days: Youth train untamed yearlings in the Mustang Beginnings Youth Challenge. They work to gentle the Bureau of Land Management wild horses over the summer then demonstrate their training skills. The event is Sept. 12-13.Supreme Drive: The Supreme Drive recognizes the best bull and female of each breed in the open beef shows. The event is Sept. 19.4-H Horse Show: This annual event will occur Sept. 17-20.Many of these events will happen this year thanks to the fair’s great partnership with 4-H and FFA and these organizations’ staff and volunteers. This includes the fair’s Grand Drive event.All shows will be closed to the public to help create a safe event. Entry deadline is July 15 for the 4-H/FFA Grand Drive and Aug. 15 for all open livestock shows.

Fair announces livestock competition in September

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will continue work on the 2021 budget Wednesday. The meeting will go over a long list of cuts that could be part of next year’s budget.

“We anticipate delivering sufficient budget cuts to get the budget to where the governing body anticipated it being,” City Manager Jeff Cantrell said. “So that’s going to involve some project cuts, some positions remaining vacant, and some decision packages that come along with that.”

Wednesday’s meeting begins at 3 p.m. but the Hutchinson City Offices will be closed to the public. The meeting can be viewed on the city <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonks/">Facebook page</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/CityOfHutchinson">YouTube</a> or the city cable channel 7.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594149629780.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will continue work on the 2021 budget Wednesday. The meeting will go over a long list of cuts that could be part of next year’s budget.“We anticipate delivering sufficient budget cuts to get the budget to where the governing body anticipated it being,” City Manager Jeff Cantrell said. “So that’s going to involve some project cuts, some positions remaining vacant, and some decision packages that come along with that.”Wednesday’s meeting begins at 3 p.m. but the Hutchinson City Offices will be closed to the public. The meeting can be viewed on the city <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonks/">Facebook page</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/CityOfHutchinson">YouTube</a> or the city cable channel 7.

City Council to hold budget meeting Wednesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Valarie Gibson-Smith was elected president of the USD 308 Board of Education for the 2020-21 school term during the annual organizational meeting of the body Monday evening at the MidTown Center. Anette Roberson was elected vice president.

Monday’s meeting took care of legal but largely routine business to start the school term.

The Board made several annual appointments during the meeting.

Treasurer: Julie Stucky Assistant Treasurer: Cindy Meier Clerk: Molly Carson Deputy Clerk: Ray Hemman KPERS Representatives: Julie Stucky, Agent; Jamie Brown, Alternate Agent; Mindy Williams, Alternate Agent 504 Coordinator: Krystal Young Food Service Representative: Jennifer Tatro Hearing Officers for Free- and Reduced-Price Meal Application Appeal: Randy Norwood, Julie Stucky Director of Head Start Program: Tamme Buller Custodians of the Activity Funds: Principals Designation of Bank Depositories: RCB Bank, Simmons Bank, First National Bank and Trust, Commerce Bank, Municipal Investment Pool, Fidelity Bank, First Bank 403(b) Plan Administrator: Julie Stucky Clerk, Deputy Clerk, Treasurer (2) and Assistant Treasurer Bonds: Public Official Bond of $100,000 each Authorization for the Deposit of Interest Money from Funds to Appropriate Special Funds: Treasurer Truancy Officer: Rick Kraus, Building Principals Building Truancy Reporter: Building Principals Title VI, VII and IX Coordinator: Rick Kraus Auditor of Record: Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk &amp; Lloyd, LLC Plan 125 Benefits Agent of Record: American Fidelity Official Newspaper: The Hutchinson News Freedom of Information Officer: Ray Hemman Privacy Officer: Ray Hemman Coordinator for Homeless Children: Rhonda Trimble Director of Educational Federal Programs: Rhonda Trimble

Left Board membership the same on various community and regional groups with the goal of reviewing which agencies needed formal Board membership on them.

Approved minutes of the June 22, 2020 meeting.

Reviewed on first reading district policies on facility expansion, instructional programs, general public relations and relations with other education agencies.

Approved a Technology Committee recommendation to add a $25 technology fee for K-12 students as the district moves to a one-to-one laptop or tablet program for students. This technology fee will not be waived for students on free and reduced meals.

Approved the hourly option for the district calendar. Under state law, the district must have school 1,116 or more hours each year. The previously approved 2020-21 calendar was developed around the hour option.

Set regular Board meetings for 6 p.m. on the second Monday of each month with an optional meeting on the fourth Monday of each month unless those dates conflict with holidays. As a practical point, the Board routinely meets on the fourth Monday of each month.

Approved a list of recommended USD 308 activity funds to be established. And adopted internal accounting control procedures.

Approved the destruction of certain district records in accordance with state laws.

Approved an early payment request policy to allow certain payments be made prior to Board meetings if making those payments will avoid late fees or allow the district to receive a discount for early payment.

Authorized the district to participate in the Municipal Investment Pool.

Approved the annual resolution related to Home Rule.

Waived the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for fiscal year 2020-21. This is a routine procedure for most schools and other governmental bodies in Kansas.

Set petty cash limits for district schools, Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy and the Administration Center.

Approved the district’s organizational chart for 2020-21.

Approved alternative learning programs for the district, including the MidTown Center’s new programming for high school-aged students and adults.

Approved requests for proposals from Dragonslayer to provide the district with portable fire extinguishers and Allen for fire suppression equipment.

Approved designating Martindell Swearer Shaffer Ridenour LLP to provide legal counsel for the district for 2020-21.

Approved district and school handbooks for 2020-21.

Approved transferring $19,912 from non-federal funds to the district’s foodservice account to avoid raising student meals prices for the coming school year.

Approved milk bids from Hiland Dairy, the only company to submit bids for 2020-21.

Approved the Head Start/Horizons memorandum of understanding for programming.

Approved the Head Start/ABC Counseling memorandum of understanding for services.

Approved the Accounts Payable Report for June 2020.

Held an executive Session for non-elected personnel.

The Board formally approved the following personnel changes.

Kara Toney, Art Teacher, Graber/Faris/Lincoln, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Rachel Mudloff, Social Worker, HMS-7/HMS-8, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Misti Kuhn, School Counselor, Faris, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Madisyn Pinkston, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Kelsey Hensley, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Wendy Morland, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Kristi O'Gorman, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Kaci Brown, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Dalton Shealy, Parent Educator, Avenue A, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Kelly Jessica Smith, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective end of the 2019-20 school year

Jeanne Allen, Head Baker, Hutchinson Middle School – 8, effective end of the 2019-20 school year

Deangela Sno Thiemann, Assistant Fruits and Vegetables, Hutchinson Middle School – 7, effective June 26, 2020

Regina Fairbank, Social Worker, HMS-7/HMS-8, effective June 30, 2020

Amy Schmidt from Speech Language Itinerant Para at Morgan to Speech Language Pathologist at Morgan, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

Shelly Meyer from Family Educator to Early Head Start Coach, effective July 1, 2020

Cyndi James, from Lunch Aide at Head Start to Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, effective start of the 2020-21 school year

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594646575881.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Valarie Gibson-Smith was elected president of the USD 308 Board of Education for the 2020-21 school term during the annual organizational meeting of the body Monday evening at the MidTown Center. Anette Roberson was elected vice president.Monday’s meeting took care of legal but largely routine business to start the school term.The Board made several annual appointments during the meeting.Treasurer: Julie Stucky Assistant Treasurer: Cindy Meier Clerk: Molly Carson Deputy Clerk: Ray Hemman KPERS Representatives: Julie Stucky, Agent; Jamie Brown, Alternate Agent; Mindy Williams, Alternate Agent 504 Coordinator: Krystal Young Food Service Representative: Jennifer Tatro Hearing Officers for Free- and Reduced-Price Meal Application Appeal: Randy Norwood, Julie Stucky Director of Head Start Program: Tamme Buller Custodians of the Activity Funds: Principals Designation of Bank Depositories: RCB Bank, Simmons Bank, First National Bank and Trust, Commerce Bank, Municipal Investment Pool, Fidelity Bank, First Bank 403(b) Plan Administrator: Julie Stucky Clerk, Deputy Clerk, Treasurer (2) and Assistant Treasurer Bonds: Public Official Bond of $100,000 each Authorization for the Deposit of Interest Money from Funds to Appropriate Special Funds: Treasurer Truancy Officer: Rick Kraus, Building Principals Building Truancy Reporter: Building Principals Title VI, VII and IX Coordinator: Rick Kraus Auditor of Record: Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk &amp; Lloyd, LLC Plan 125 Benefits Agent of Record: American Fidelity Official Newspaper: The Hutchinson News Freedom of Information Officer: Ray Hemman Privacy Officer: Ray Hemman Coordinator for Homeless Children: Rhonda Trimble Director of Educational Federal Programs: Rhonda Trimble Left Board membership the same on various community and regional groups with the goal of reviewing which agencies needed formal Board membership on them.In other action, the Board:Approved minutes of the June 22, 2020 meeting.Reviewed on first reading district policies on facility expansion, instructional programs, general public relations and relations with other education agencies.Approved a Technology Committee recommendation to add a $25 technology fee for K-12 students as the district moves to a one-to-one laptop or tablet program for students. This technology fee will not be waived for students on free and reduced meals.Approved the hourly option for the district calendar. Under state law, the district must have school 1,116 or more hours each year. The previously approved 2020-21 calendar was developed around the hour option.Set regular Board meetings for 6 p.m. on the second Monday of each month with an optional meeting on the fourth Monday of each month unless those dates conflict with holidays. As a practical point, the Board routinely meets on the fourth Monday of each month.Approved a list of recommended USD 308 activity funds to be established. And adopted internal accounting control procedures.Approved the destruction of certain district records in accordance with state laws.Approved an early payment request policy to allow certain payments be made prior to Board meetings if making those payments will avoid late fees or allow the district to receive a discount for early payment.Authorized the district to participate in the Municipal Investment Pool.Approved the annual resolution related to Home Rule.Waived the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for fiscal year 2020-21. This is a routine procedure for most schools and other governmental bodies in Kansas.Set petty cash limits for district schools, Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy and the Administration Center.Approved submitted job descriptions.Approved the district’s organizational chart for 2020-21.Approved alternative learning programs for the district, including the MidTown Center’s new programming for high school-aged students and adults.Approved requests for proposals from Dragonslayer to provide the district with portable fire extinguishers and Allen for fire suppression equipment.Approved designating Martindell Swearer Shaffer Ridenour LLP to provide legal counsel for the district for 2020-21.Approved district and school handbooks for 2020-21.Approved transferring $19,912 from non-federal funds to the district’s foodservice account to avoid raising student meals prices for the coming school year.Approved milk bids from Hiland Dairy, the only company to submit bids for 2020-21.Approved the Head Start/Horizons memorandum of understanding for programming.Approved the Head Start/ABC Counseling memorandum of understanding for services.Approved the Accounts Payable Report for June 2020.Held an executive Session for non-elected personnel.Personnel ReportThe Board formally approved the following personnel changes.HiredKara Toney, Art Teacher, Graber/Faris/Lincoln, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearRachel Mudloff, Social Worker, HMS-7/HMS-8, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearMisti Kuhn, School Counselor, Faris, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearMadisyn Pinkston, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearKelsey Hensley, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearWendy Morland, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearKristi O'Gorman, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearKaci Brown, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearDalton Shealy, Parent Educator, Avenue A, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearResignationsKelly Jessica Smith, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective end of the 2019-20 school yearJeanne Allen, Head Baker, Hutchinson Middle School – 8, effective end of the 2019-20 school yearDeangela Sno Thiemann, Assistant Fruits and Vegetables, Hutchinson Middle School – 7, effective June 26, 2020Release from ContractRegina Fairbank, Social Worker, HMS-7/HMS-8, effective June 30, 2020Position ChangesAmy Schmidt from Speech Language Itinerant Para at Morgan to Speech Language Pathologist at Morgan, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearShelly Meyer from Family Educator to Early Head Start Coach, effective July 1, 2020Cyndi James, from Lunch Aide at Head Start to Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearHeidi Eschleman, CSS Teacher to CSS Para Interventionist, effective start of the 2020-21 school yearNext MeetingThe next regular meeting of the Board will be at 6 p.m. Monday, July 27, 2020.

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