HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With many entertainment venues closed or limited due to the pandemic, the Hutchinson Fox Theatre wants to know what you think when it comes to kicking off another season of entertainment.

An online survey is now available at <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe0mBsjzC7yeFaKWUyIU_q9E5wxLqn_bBUSUXaf4emxm0xxGg/viewform">hutchinsonfox.com</a>. The Fox wants as much feedback from patrons as possible. If you haven't already responded, the Fox asks you to take a short survey to help it plan for reopening. The deadline to submit your survey is Friday, March 5.

This survey only takes a few minutes and no personal information is collected. Your responses will not be shared and will help the theatre prepare to welcome patrons back comfortably and safely.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614097835841.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With many entertainment venues closed or limited due to the pandemic, the Hutchinson Fox Theatre wants to know what you think when it comes to kicking off another season of entertainment.An online survey is now available at <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe0mBsjzC7yeFaKWUyIU_q9E5wxLqn_bBUSUXaf4emxm0xxGg/viewform">hutchinsonfox.com</a>. The Fox wants as much feedback from patrons as possible. If you haven't already responded, the Fox asks you to take a short survey to help it plan for reopening. The deadline to submit your survey is Friday, March 5.This survey only takes a few minutes and no personal information is collected. Your responses will not be shared and will help the theatre prepare to welcome patrons back comfortably and safely.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Fox Theatre wants patrons to complete survey

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Gov. Laura Kelly has reappointed a member to the Kansas State Fair Board.

Among a list of appointments by the governor Monday was Holly Lofton of Lindsborg. Lofton has been a member of the Fair Board since March of 2018. Lofton is the director of tourism for the Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau. She is the designee for the Travel Industry Association of Kansas.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614635513749.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Gov. Laura Kelly has reappointed a member to the Kansas State Fair Board.Among a list of appointments by the governor Monday was Holly Lofton of Lindsborg. Lofton has been a member of the Fair Board since March of 2018. Lofton is the director of tourism for the Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau. She is the designee for the Travel Industry Association of Kansas.This is her second term on the board.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lofton reappointed to Fair Board

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec announced Monday that the Senior Center at Elmdale Park will reopen March 8 with limited activities.

Hutch Rec says activities will include pickleball, billiards, fitness room and gymnasium, wellness classes, and more. A full schedule is being made available and posted on the <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/senior-center-at-elmdale-park/">Senior Center facility page at hutchrec.com</a> and on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/334287143987254">Senior Center Facebook group page</a>.&nbsp;

The center will continue the curbside carry-out lunch program until further notice. This program is offered to members on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays each week, with a menu posted on the <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/senior-center-at-elmdale-park/">Senior Center facility page at hutchrec.com</a>.

Effective March 8, new hours at the center will be Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Members’ health and safety are a top priority for the Senior Center at Elmdale Park. Participant numbers for each activity will be limited to ensure safe social distancing.&nbsp;

To keep everyone healthy and safe, the center asks that members practice safe social distancing and avoid close contact with others while in the senior center. Members will also be asked to respect staff’s requests to follow proper guidelines set forth by the Kansas Recreation and Parks Association and local health authorities.&nbsp;

For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/about-hutch-rec/who-we-are-2/">COVID-19 page at hutchrec.com</a>, or call the Senior Center at (620) 663-2811.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614629288059.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec announced Monday that the Senior Center at Elmdale Park will reopen March 8 with limited activities.Hutch Rec says activities will include pickleball, billiards, fitness room and gymnasium, wellness classes, and more. A full schedule is being made available and posted on the <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/senior-center-at-elmdale-park/">Senior Center facility page at hutchrec.com</a> and on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/334287143987254">Senior Center Facebook group page</a>.&nbsp;The center will continue the curbside carry-out lunch program until further notice. This program is offered to members on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays each week, with a menu posted on the <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/senior-center-at-elmdale-park/">Senior Center facility page at hutchrec.com</a>.Effective March 8, new hours at the center will be Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed on Saturday and Sunday.Members’ health and safety are a top priority for the Senior Center at Elmdale Park. Participant numbers for each activity will be limited to ensure safe social distancing.&nbsp;To keep everyone healthy and safe, the center asks that members practice safe social distancing and avoid close contact with others while in the senior center. Members will also be asked to respect staff’s requests to follow proper guidelines set forth by the Kansas Recreation and Parks Association and local health authorities.&nbsp;For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/about-hutch-rec/who-we-are-2/">COVID-19 page at hutchrec.com</a>, or call the Senior Center at (620) 663-2811.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Elmdale Park Senior Center to open March 8

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Recent obituaries


MOUNDRIDGE,
Kan. — 
The USD 423 Board of Education has announced the selection of Cody Rierson, as the new superintendent. Mr. Rierson will take the reins on July 1, 2021 after the retirement of George Leary at the end of the 2020-21 school year.

Mr. Rierson brings to the district 14 years as a teacher and administrator.  Currently, Mr. Rierson is in his eighth year as principal at Lincoln Elementary School in McPherson USD 418.  Previously, he served as an elementary school principal for two years in Caldwell USD 360, as an elementary school teacher and administrative intern through Wichita State University at Eisenhower Elementary School in McPherson USD 418, and as a fifth grade teacher at DeSoto USD 232.  He completed his Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership at Wichita State University in 2018.

Cody and his wife Abbey have been married for fourteen years.  Abbey works as the Chief of Staff at McPherson College.  They have four children: Harper, Vivian, Jolie, and Rhodes.  Cody enjoys spending his free time with his family and coaching his children in various youth sports.  

Mr. Rierson said, “The Rierson family is excited about this opportunity.  We loved the (family) atmosphere when touring the district.  We know there's a tradition of excellence.  In addition, we know Moundridge is a school district dedicated to student success.  Thank you for making us part of your family.”

Board President Michael Beasley says that Mr. Rierson emerged from a very thorough search process as the right candidate to lead the School District.  Beasley explained that community input was a key factor in the success of the superintendent search process. The committees included teachers and administrators, parents and community members. “The input from the community as a whole was very helpful to our process.”

The Board selected four finalists who were interviewed for the position.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614618850015.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Moundridge USD 423
MOUNDRIDGE,
Kan. — 
The USD 423 Board of Education has announced the selection of Cody Rierson, as the new superintendent. Mr. Rierson will take the reins on July 1, 2021 after the retirement of George Leary at the end of the 2020-21 school year.Mr. Rierson brings to the district 14 years as a teacher and administrator. Currently, Mr. Rierson is in his eighth year as principal at Lincoln Elementary School in McPherson USD 418. Previously, he served as an elementary school principal for two years in Caldwell USD 360, as an elementary school teacher and administrative intern through Wichita State University at Eisenhower Elementary School in McPherson USD 418, and as a fifth grade teacher at DeSoto USD 232. He completed his Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership at Wichita State University in 2018.Cody and his wife Abbey have been married for fourteen years. Abbey works as the Chief of Staff at McPherson College. They have four children: Harper, Vivian, Jolie, and Rhodes. Cody enjoys spending his free time with his family and coaching his children in various youth sports. Mr. Rierson said, “The Rierson family is excited about this opportunity. We loved the (family) atmosphere when touring the district. We know there's a tradition of excellence. In addition, we know Moundridge is a school district dedicated to student success. Thank you for making us part of your family.”Board President Michael Beasley says that Mr. Rierson emerged from a very thorough search process as the right candidate to lead the School District. Beasley explained that community input was a key factor in the success of the superintendent search process. The committees included teachers and administrators, parents and community members. “The input from the community as a whole was very helpful to our process.”The Board selected four finalists who were interviewed for the position.

McPherson elementary principal named Moundridge superintendent

NICKERSON, Kan. — Last year the City of Nickerson saw their tornado warning siren malfunction. The outdated piece of equipment stood silent throughout the spring and summer storm season.&nbsp;

Efforts to resurrect the system did not help. There has been discussion off and on about finding a way to repair or replace the siren but no action has been taken.

City Clerk April Beshears says the siren won't be available again this spring and summer and they urge residents to subscribe to the Reno County Emergency Management’s EverBridge warning system. The system activates watches and warnings on your personal device. The subscription is free.&nbsp;

Beshears says residents need to pay attention to the weather and entertain all avenues to monitor storms. EverBridge can be found at <a href="http://renogov.org">renogov.org</a> and go to the Emergency Management page.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592853018555.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — Last year the City of Nickerson saw their tornado warning siren malfunction. The outdated piece of equipment stood silent throughout the spring and summer storm season.&nbsp;Efforts to resurrect the system did not help. There has been discussion off and on about finding a way to repair or replace the siren but no action has been taken.City Clerk April Beshears says the siren won't be available again this spring and summer and they urge residents to subscribe to the Reno County Emergency Management’s EverBridge warning system. The system activates watches and warnings on your personal device. The subscription is free.&nbsp;Beshears says residents need to pay attention to the weather and entertain all avenues to monitor storms. EverBridge can be found at <a href="http://renogov.org">renogov.org</a> and go to the Emergency Management page.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Warning siren will not be activated in Nickerson

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The city of South Hutchinson is looking to find ways to address issues with the amount of water that is available to the community.

The matter will be discussed during tonight’s City Council meeting. According to Mayor Matt Nisly, the city is nearing its full capacity of available water each day. Several wells are falling off in quality along with other water rights matters. The problems are amplified by the city having two major companies in the area, including Tyson which uses a major portion of the city’s water supply each day.

The City Council will hear a presentation from their engineering firm about possible solutions to the water problems. Tonight’s South Hutchinson City Council meeting begins at 7 p.m. at 101 West Avenue C.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614615605595.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The city of South Hutchinson is looking to find ways to address issues with the amount of water that is available to the community.The matter will be discussed during tonight’s City Council meeting. According to Mayor Matt Nisly, the city is nearing its full capacity of available water each day. Several wells are falling off in quality along with other water rights matters. The problems are amplified by the city having two major companies in the area, including Tyson which uses a major portion of the city’s water supply each day.The City Council will hear a presentation from their engineering firm about possible solutions to the water problems. Tonight’s South Hutchinson City Council meeting begins at 7 p.m. at 101 West Avenue C.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Hutchinson City Council to discuss water issues


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Homeowners in Hutchinson will be able to fix up their homes with help from the Federal Home Loan Bank and SCKEDD.

"This can be things such as siding, windows, doors, roofs, plumbing, electrical, any of those issues that maybe you've known that need to be corrected, but just haven't had the funding to be able to do that," said Julia Westfahl. "That is a program that we're going to be opening up on March 15th."

They can start a waiting list now, if you want to call ahead.

"As soon as we have the application and the information, we'll be reaching out to them and contacting them to be able to start the process to get them approved for that," Westfahl said.

Dozens of homeowners will be able to receive assistance.

"We received a $525,000 grant for the city of Hutchinson," Westfahl said. "$500,000 of that will go directly to the individuals applying for the grant. That would be able to help 50 homes."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604073199111.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Homeowners in Hutchinson will be able to fix up their homes with help from the Federal Home Loan Bank and SCKEDD."This can be things such as siding, windows, doors, roofs, plumbing, electrical, any of those issues that maybe you've known that need to be corrected, but just haven't had the funding to be able to do that," said Julia Westfahl. "That is a program that we're going to be opening up on March 15th."They can start a waiting list now, if you want to call ahead."As soon as we have the application and the information, we'll be reaching out to them and contacting them to be able to start the process to get them approved for that," Westfahl said.Dozens of homeowners will be able to receive assistance."We received a $525,000 grant for the city of Hutchinson," Westfahl said. "$500,000 of that will go directly to the individuals applying for the grant. That would be able to help 50 homes."Call 620-259-6544 for more information.
<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK
HERE</a>&nbsp;to
download the Hutch Post mobile app. 
<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK
HERE</a>&nbsp;to
sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

SCKEDD taking renovation grant applications starting March 15

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council took time to discuss the possibility of bringing back the City Administrator's position. The discussion came during a special meeting held last Thursday. The city has been without an Administrator since current Hillsboro City Manager Matt Stiles resigned suddenly in 2018.

According to mayor Matt Nisly, the meeting involved discussion with a consultant that pointed out the benefits of having an administrator, what the duties of the job would be and how to go about filling the vacant spot.

Though it is not in the agenda a decision on what direction to go could come up at tonight’s City Council meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614615605595.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council took time to discuss the possibility of bringing back the City Administrator's position. The discussion came during a special meeting held last Thursday. The city has been without an Administrator since current Hillsboro City Manager Matt Stiles resigned suddenly in 2018.According to mayor Matt Nisly, the meeting involved discussion with a consultant that pointed out the benefits of having an administrator, what the duties of the job would be and how to go about filling the vacant spot.Though it is not in the agenda a decision on what direction to go could come up at tonight’s City Council meeting.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Hutchinson discussing City Administrator position

Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher

In recent days I’ve been catching up on chores I decided to put on hold during our recent weather, which caused temperatures to plummet, the sky to appear gray and gloomy, and left many in the middle of the country to adjust energy consumption in the hopes of keeping the power on.&nbsp; &nbsp; Many of my chores that I’ve been tackling have been household related. I’ve spent a lot of time moving laundry from the washer to the dryer. It always amazes me how much dirty laundry a family of four can create. It also amazes me how quickly it can all pile up when you pause. As I’ve been chipping away at these piles, more and more of my laundry room floor, once covered by multiple hampers and piles of sorted dirty clothes, is beginning to reappear. This simple sign of progress truly makes me happy. &nbsp; During the recent cold days, which kept our kids home from school because of extreme temperatures, I routinely bundled up in my layers and walked around our yard checking on things. I made sure to check on my beehives to ensure the insulation I had remained intact during the cold. I didn’t know if I had done enough to protect them and was concerned I would find my hives full of frozen, dead bees once everything began to thaw out. As the temperatures have risen and the warm sun has returned, I have noticed the bees are venturing out and flying in the warmth of the afternoons now. It’s a sight many may take for granted — let alone notice — but for me it is a simple sign promising sweet treats later this summer. &nbsp; While driving throughout our area, I have also noticed that the wheat fields we planted in the fall are showing hints of green. While I’ve learned over the years wheat is tough and can survive the cold — &nbsp;especially if there’s a layer of snow to insulate it — I worried that it might have been too cold for too long this year. Needless to say, the hints of green that I am viewing through the windshield as I drive past are a welcome color to see. The plants still have many months to go, but this simple sign provides me with some assurance we will have a crop to harvest this summer. &nbsp; The farm ponds in our area that recently froze over are slowly melting as well. The thick ice that covered the ponds and remained for an impressive number of days is now slowly dripping away, allowing the geese to return to swimming in the water instead of huddling on the ice.&nbsp; &nbsp; The one pond in our neighborhood, which became a community meeting place for hockey and skating enthusiasts, has almost completely melted showing only a few thin floating sheets of ice serving as receipts for the recent brutal cold. The homemade hockey rink that offered many freezing days and nights full of men and boys burning off energy during some serious games while others huddled near a fire to watch the events unfold has now been deconstructed and put away. &nbsp; The view of the pond now is that of hundreds, if not thousands, of geese floating on the water and enjoying the warmth of the sunlight. The image of the congregation of people on the ice during the recent freezing, dark days I have etched in my mind along with the views of these birds returning to the water in the sunlight is a simple sign of community gatherings throughout a variety of degrees. &nbsp; It’s strange to think that simple signs are all around us daily. May we all occasionally notice these signs and allow them to energize and power us as we move forward and return to our normal routines following the brutal cold.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancherIn recent days I’ve been catching up on chores I decided to put on hold during our recent weather, which caused temperatures to plummet, the sky to appear gray and gloomy, and left many in the middle of the country to adjust energy consumption in the hopes of keeping the power on.&nbsp; &nbsp; Many of my chores that I’ve been tackling have been household related. I’ve spent a lot of time moving laundry from the washer to the dryer. It always amazes me how much dirty laundry a family of four can create. It also amazes me how quickly it can all pile up when you pause. As I’ve been chipping away at these piles, more and more of my laundry room floor, once covered by multiple hampers and piles of sorted dirty clothes, is beginning to reappear. This simple sign of progress truly makes me happy. &nbsp; During the recent cold days, which kept our kids home from school because of extreme temperatures, I routinely bundled up in my layers and walked around our yard checking on things. I made sure to check on my beehives to ensure the insulation I had remained intact during the cold. I didn’t know if I had done enough to protect them and was concerned I would find my hives full of frozen, dead bees once everything began to thaw out. As the temperatures have risen and the warm sun has returned, I have noticed the bees are venturing out and flying in the warmth of the afternoons now. It’s a sight many may take for granted — let alone notice — but for me it is a simple sign promising sweet treats later this summer. &nbsp; While driving throughout our area, I have also noticed that the wheat fields we planted in the fall are showing hints of green. While I’ve learned over the years wheat is tough and can survive the cold — &nbsp;especially if there’s a layer of snow to insulate it — I worried that it might have been too cold for too long this year. Needless to say, the hints of green that I am viewing through the windshield as I drive past are a welcome color to see. The plants still have many months to go, but this simple sign provides me with some assurance we will have a crop to harvest this summer. &nbsp; The farm ponds in our area that recently froze over are slowly melting as well. The thick ice that covered the ponds and remained for an impressive number of days is now slowly dripping away, allowing the geese to return to swimming in the water instead of huddling on the ice.&nbsp; &nbsp; The one pond in our neighborhood, which became a community meeting place for hockey and skating enthusiasts, has almost completely melted showing only a few thin floating sheets of ice serving as receipts for the recent brutal cold. The homemade hockey rink that offered many freezing days and nights full of men and boys burning off energy during some serious games while others huddled near a fire to watch the events unfold has now been deconstructed and put away. &nbsp; The view of the pond now is that of hundreds, if not thousands, of geese floating on the water and enjoying the warmth of the sunlight. The image of the congregation of people on the ice during the recent freezing, dark days I have etched in my mind along with the views of these birds returning to the water in the sunlight is a simple sign of community gatherings throughout a variety of degrees. &nbsp; It’s strange to think that simple signs are all around us daily. May we all occasionally notice these signs and allow them to energize and power us as we move forward and return to our normal routines following the brutal cold."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Simple Signs

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Warning Coordination Meteorologist Chance Hayes with the Wichita office of the National Weather Service notes that his annual talks to storm spotters <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/spottertalks">are different this year</a>.

"This year, we're just actually getting started, since everything is going to be virtual," Hayes said. "We're going to be able to host a lot more folks online than we are in person. I'd much rather be there in person, because getting to know the folks and chat with them is extremely important to us, but, you know, we're dealt with the situation and we're doing the best that we can."

Even though he won't be in the same room, he hopes to bring much of the same overall information.

"The talk's almost going to be identical to years past," Hayes said. "I mean, the content, of course, is going to be different, because we have to change that up every single year so that it doesn't become monotonous, but I'm still going to be giving a Power Point presentation with plenty of images and graphics. Not quite as many videos this year, just because I want to ensure that everybody has a smooth flow and it's not choppy on their end."

Hayes said his office really doesn't do a lot of trying to predict the entire season. They are focused on what's next weatherwise, but they are taking a look at what's happened in the past a bit at this point.

"Sometimes, we'll look a little bit further ahead, but our bread and butter is on the next seven days," Hayes said. "However, we have been looking at the upcoming spring and what we may expect and the patterns that are out there. A lot of that hinges on what we call El Nino and La Nina. I know that a lot of folks are starting to hear those buzzwords in the background nowadays and we're moving into what we call a neutral phase of La Nina, which in years past has given us a more active spring and early summer season."

Usually, when really active weather happens they will begin to see the ingredients coming together as far as seven days out.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Warning Coordination Meteorologist Chance Hayes with the Wichita office of the National Weather Service notes that his annual talks to storm spotters <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/spottertalks">are different this year</a>."This year, we're just actually getting started, since everything is going to be virtual," Hayes said. "We're going to be able to host a lot more folks online than we are in person. I'd much rather be there in person, because getting to know the folks and chat with them is extremely important to us, but, you know, we're dealt with the situation and we're doing the best that we can."Even though he won't be in the same room, he hopes to bring much of the same overall information."The talk's almost going to be identical to years past," Hayes said. "I mean, the content, of course, is going to be different, because we have to change that up every single year so that it doesn't become monotonous, but I'm still going to be giving a Power Point presentation with plenty of images and graphics. Not quite as many videos this year, just because I want to ensure that everybody has a smooth flow and it's not choppy on their end."Hayes said his office really doesn't do a lot of trying to predict the entire season. They are focused on what's next weatherwise, but they are taking a look at what's happened in the past a bit at this point."Sometimes, we'll look a little bit further ahead, but our bread and butter is on the next seven days," Hayes said. "However, we have been looking at the upcoming spring and what we may expect and the patterns that are out there. A lot of that hinges on what we call El Nino and La Nina. I know that a lot of folks are starting to hear those buzzwords in the background nowadays and we're moving into what we call a neutral phase of La Nina, which in years past has given us a more active spring and early summer season."Usually, when really active weather happens they will begin to see the ingredients coming together as far as seven days out.

Hayes: Spotter talks virtual in 2021


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar notes that March 1 is the anniversary of the real start of COVID-19 response from his office.

"We didn't declare a public health emergency in the county until the 19th, but this would be the one year mark," Weishaar said. "At the start of this, it was one of those things that we didn't know it was really going to turn into this. We started our conversations all the way back in the early part of February, February 3 to be exact and we said hey, this could be a real thing. This could be something that's brought into Kansas, something that we see in our community and started having those discussions."

Once the virus got close in mid-March, it was clear it wasn't going away soon. 

"We said then that we're looking at maybe an 18-month response," Weishaar said. "People thought we were crazy and here we are a year later."

Weishaar thinks that timeline is still close to where we'll end up.

"I believe 18 months is still probably pretty accurate," Weishaar said. "Our disaster declaration and the state's declaration is set to expire on the 31st of March. I would like to see them stay in place, just for the simple fact of it keeps the flow going. It keeps the availability of resources, the availability of getting personal protective equipment or sharps containers or testing supplies, whatever we happen to need."

Weishaar's office is responsible for finding those commonly needed resources through state and federal government channels when they are not available privately.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar notes that March 1 is the anniversary of the real start of COVID-19 response from his office."We didn't declare a public health emergency in the county until the 19th, but this would be the one year mark," Weishaar said. "At the start of this, it was one of those things that we didn't know it was really going to turn into this. We started our conversations all the way back in the early part of February, February 3 to be exact and we said hey, this could be a real thing. This could be something that's brought into Kansas, something that we see in our community and started having those discussions."Once the virus got close in mid-March, it was clear it wasn't going away soon. "We said then that we're looking at maybe an 18-month response," Weishaar said. "People thought we were crazy and here we are a year later."Weishaar thinks that timeline is still close to where we'll end up."I believe 18 months is still probably pretty accurate," Weishaar said. "Our disaster declaration and the state's declaration is set to expire on the 31st of March. I would like to see them stay in place, just for the simple fact of it keeps the flow going. It keeps the availability of resources, the availability of getting personal protective equipment or sharps containers or testing supplies, whatever we happen to need."Weishaar's office is responsible for finding those commonly needed resources through state and federal government channels when they are not available privately.
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Weishaar: One year in, county still needs emergency declaration for COVID-19

from <a href="https://ksstorm.info/">KSStorm.info</a>

It’s an annual rite of passage in Spring, the daily severe weather forecast. If you are the uber-weather geek, you are likely checking the Storm Prediction Center’s forecast, sometimes multiple times a day, to get the latest severe weather forecast.

But if you are not one to check the severe weather forecast every day, do you know the risk categories and how to use them in your severe weather preparations?

Five Tiers Indicate Risk, Probabilities

The color-coded, five-tiered forecasts became operational in late 2014 and offered an update to the three-tiered — slight, moderate, high — system that had been in use for more than forty years.

“We found that many people only looked at the categorical risk terms (Slight, Moderate, High) and not the probabilities, and as a result may have missed important information about the risk,” said Bill Bunting, Chief of Forecast Operations for the Storm Prediction Center.&nbsp; “By adding two additional categories (Marginal Risk better reflects lower probability risk than the previous “See Text”), virtually any change to the underlying probabilities now results in a change in the risk category.&nbsp; This allows one to gain a more complete picture of the spatial distribution of the risk simply by looking at the convective outlook categorical risk graphic.”

Since the change, Bunting says the response from NWS meteorologists, broadcast media, and emergency management partners has been positive.

Bunting says the outlook forecasts, issued multiple times each day, are based on anticipated coverage of severe storms. From there, forecasters use subjectively based calibrations for a tornado, large hail (larger than one-inch in diameter), and damaging wind (58 mph or more) risks within 25 miles of a given location. Storm Prediction Center forecasters do not issue forecasts for heavy rain and lightning. But, heavy rain and lightning are just dangerous as a tornado, hail, or high winds.

“The risk terms reflect an increasing likelihood of a severe storm at any given location from Marginal to High Risk, and this is very useful information to anyone wanting to plan for severe weather. The individual hazard probabilities in the Day 1 and Day 2 Convective Outlooks provide insight into which threats are greatest on a particular day,” Bunting said.

When severe weather is forecast, forecasters at local National Weather Service offices will offer media partners and emergency managers briefings on the greatest risks in a particular area. From there, they relay the information to the general public. The communication of risks could be used to postpone outdoor or mass-gathering events, church services or shorten school days.

Since the five-tiered system’s implementation, there have been some slight refinements as social science has evolved. Bunting says the SPC continues to work with social and behavioral scientists to better understand how to communicate severe storm risk. They will gather best practices from that research to help guide any potential future changes to their communication strategies.&nbsp; This could include changes to the risk terms, colors, numbers, and other aspects of the communication process.

Outlooks are the first step in your Severe Weather preparation

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614597671277.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
MATTHEW HARDING
from <a href="https://ksstorm.info/">KSStorm.info</a> It’s an annual rite of passage in Spring, the daily severe weather forecast. If you are the uber-weather geek, you are likely checking the Storm Prediction Center’s forecast, sometimes multiple times a day, to get the latest severe weather forecast.But if you are not one to check the severe weather forecast every day, do you know the risk categories and how to use them in your severe weather preparations?<h2>Five Tiers Indicate Risk, Probabilities </h2>The color-coded, five-tiered forecasts became operational in late 2014 and offered an update to the three-tiered — slight, moderate, high — system that had been in use for more than forty years.“We found that many people only looked at the categorical risk terms (Slight, Moderate, High) and not the probabilities, and as a result may have missed important information about the risk,” said Bill Bunting, Chief of Forecast Operations for the Storm Prediction Center.&nbsp; “By adding two additional categories (Marginal Risk better reflects lower probability risk than the previous “See Text”), virtually any change to the underlying probabilities now results in a change in the risk category.&nbsp; This allows one to gain a more complete picture of the spatial distribution of the risk simply by looking at the convective outlook categorical risk graphic.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614597919635.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Feedback on the change is positive</h2>Since the change, Bunting says the response from NWS meteorologists, broadcast media, and emergency management partners has been positive.Bunting says the outlook forecasts, issued multiple times each day, are based on anticipated coverage of severe storms. From there, forecasters use subjectively based calibrations for a tornado, large hail (larger than one-inch in diameter), and damaging wind (58 mph or more) risks within 25 miles of a given location. Storm Prediction Center forecasters do not issue forecasts for heavy rain and lightning. But, heavy rain and lightning are just dangerous as a tornado, hail, or high winds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614597944458.png" alt="Courtesy: Storm Prediction Center" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy: Storm Prediction Center</figcaption>
 </figure>“The risk terms reflect an increasing likelihood of a severe storm at any given location from Marginal to High Risk, and this is very useful information to anyone wanting to plan for severe weather. The individual hazard probabilities in the Day 1 and Day 2 Convective Outlooks provide insight into which threats are greatest on a particular day,” Bunting said.When severe weather is forecast, forecasters at local National Weather Service offices will offer media partners and emergency managers briefings on the greatest risks in a particular area. From there, they relay the information to the general public. The communication of risks could be used to postpone outdoor or mass-gathering events, church services or shorten school days.Since the five-tiered system’s implementation, there have been some slight refinements as social science has evolved. Bunting says the SPC continues to work with social and behavioral scientists to better understand how to communicate severe storm risk. They will gather best practices from that research to help guide any potential future changes to their communication strategies.&nbsp; This could include changes to the risk terms, colors, numbers, and other aspects of the communication process.<h2>Outlooks are the first step in your Severe Weather preparation</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614597970274.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy: National Weather Service, Norman, OK" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy: National Weather Service, Norman, OK</figcaption>
 </figure>
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Aware 2021: Explaining the Storm Prediction Center’s Risk Forecasts


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 122 as of Sunday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 138. 

Out of 7,709 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,449 recoveries. There are 14 clusters still being monitored. The long-term care facility cluster type is down to just 13 active cases.

Three Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred sixty-five total have been hospitalized. One hundred three have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

Drive-thru testing is currently available at two Reno County Locations at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson and at Simply Good Overstocks at 401 N Main in South Hutchinson.

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

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 122 as of Sunday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 138. Out of 7,709 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,449 recoveries. There are 14 clusters still being monitored. The long-term care facility cluster type is down to just 13 active cases.Three Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred sixty-five total have been hospitalized. One hundred three have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.Drive-thru testing is currently available at two Reno County Locations at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson and at Simply Good Overstocks at 401 N Main in South Hutchinson.Both sites are open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit www.gogettested.com.

Case count at 122 at end of February

RICE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30 p.m. Sunday in Rice County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by 28-year-old Kraymer Fox Bennett of Lyons, was northbound on Kansas 14 behind a 2018 Dodge Journey driven by 38-year-old Rachel H. Hatcher of Alden.

The Dodge slowed to make a turn to the west on Avenue T.&nbsp; The motorcycle made an evasive maneuver to avoid rear-ending the Dodge and ended up in the northwest ditch.

Bennett was taken by private vehicle to the hospital in Lyons.&nbsp; Hatcher and a passenger in the Dodge were not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident.&nbsp; The motorcyclist was also wearing a helmet and eye protection at the time of the accident.

<figure>
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 </figure>RICE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30 p.m. Sunday in Rice County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by 28-year-old Kraymer Fox Bennett of Lyons, was northbound on Kansas 14 behind a 2018 Dodge Journey driven by 38-year-old Rachel H. Hatcher of Alden.The Dodge slowed to make a turn to the west on Avenue T.&nbsp; The motorcycle made an evasive maneuver to avoid rear-ending the Dodge and ended up in the northwest ditch.Bennett was taken by private vehicle to the hospital in Lyons.&nbsp; Hatcher and a passenger in the Dodge were not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident.&nbsp; The motorcyclist was also wearing a helmet and eye protection at the time of the accident.

Man from Lyons hospitalized after motorcycle accident


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Dr. Rex Degner, Chief Medical Officer at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System wants to clear up the way Hutchinson Regional handles death certificates and COVID-19. There is a difference between dying with COVID-19 and dying of COVID-19.

"You can have cancer, but you still die of something else," Degner said. "You don't necessarily die of your cancer. You can have a heart attack or a stroke or something like that. It's the same thing with COVID. Somebody can have COVID and still die of another cause. The ultimate one is walking out in front of a truck and getting run over. You die from an accident. You didn't die from your COVID and that's where things get a little tricky when you die of some other medical condition."

If it's a lung condition and a person has COVID, that's pretty straightforward. If it involves other systems, it gets murky. 

"When the doctors are signing out their death certificates, they try and sign them out in such a way that it explains, it gives what the immediate cause of death was, and if there's something else that actually fully contributed to it, also put that there," Degner said. "It's my understanding that for the state of Kansas. I don't know nationwide how this works or not, that if you write COVID anywhere on a death certificate, it's going to be listed as a COVID death. I believe our hospitalists and most docs are somewhat aware of that and only put it down if they really thought it was actually contributing to the death."

Degner gave an example of a question that came up last year regarding a death.

"We're trying very much to do the right thing here in Reno County," Degner said. "We early on had a patient that had very advanced cancer, came in with complications of her cancer, happened to also, late in the process, realized that she at some point had been COVID positive, but it really didn't contribute to her death, but they didn't put it on the death certificate and it didn't get counted."

Degner is part of a group that includes the Chief of Staff that reviews all death certificates for deaths that occur at Hutchinson Regional.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604662016880.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Dr. Rex Degner, Chief Medical Officer at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System wants to clear up the way Hutchinson Regional handles death certificates and COVID-19. There is a difference between dying with COVID-19 and dying of COVID-19."You can have cancer, but you still die of something else," Degner said. "You don't necessarily die of your cancer. You can have a heart attack or a stroke or something like that. It's the same thing with COVID. Somebody can have COVID and still die of another cause. The ultimate one is walking out in front of a truck and getting run over. You die from an accident. You didn't die from your COVID and that's where things get a little tricky when you die of some other medical condition."If it's a lung condition and a person has COVID, that's pretty straightforward. If it involves other systems, it gets murky. "When the doctors are signing out their death certificates, they try and sign them out in such a way that it explains, it gives what the immediate cause of death was, and if there's something else that actually fully contributed to it, also put that there," Degner said. "It's my understanding that for the state of Kansas. I don't know nationwide how this works or not, that if you write COVID anywhere on a death certificate, it's going to be listed as a COVID death. I believe our hospitalists and most docs are somewhat aware of that and only put it down if they really thought it was actually contributing to the death."Degner gave an example of a question that came up last year regarding a death."We're trying very much to do the right thing here in Reno County," Degner said. "We early on had a patient that had very advanced cancer, came in with complications of her cancer, happened to also, late in the process, realized that she at some point had been COVID positive, but it really didn't contribute to her death, but they didn't put it on the death certificate and it didn't get counted."Degner is part of a group that includes the Chief of Staff that reviews all death certificates for deaths that occur at Hutchinson Regional.
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Degner explains death certificate process and COVID-19

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven City Council will give consideration to fill a vacant position on the Haven police force during Monday’s meeting.

The city has been short an officer for almost two months, but will go into executive session along with Police Chief Stephen Schaffer and City Manager Leslie Atherton to review applicants. Action is expected to be taken up by the council following the executive session.

Also Monday, the board will consider a $10,000 grant for Jonell Harper's Daisy Jo's Ice Cream parlor, which she hopes to open in July, and get an energy update on the new Evergy substation located near Burrton.

Monday’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. and will be held via Zoom.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven City Council will give consideration to fill a vacant position on the Haven police force during Monday’s meeting.The city has been short an officer for almost two months, but will go into executive session along with Police Chief Stephen Schaffer and City Manager Leslie Atherton to review applicants. Action is expected to be taken up by the council following the executive session.Also Monday, the board will consider a $10,000 grant for Jonell Harper's Daisy Jo's Ice Cream parlor, which she hopes to open in July, and get an energy update on the new Evergy substation located near Burrton.Monday’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. and will be held via Zoom.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven council to take up vacant police officer position Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fairgrounds will be hosting its annual document shredding event on Monday. The event is sponsored by the Kansas Attorney General's Office as part of National Consumer Protection Week.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson event is at gate 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those wanting to discard documents are asked to enter at gate 3.

Each year, the Kansas Attorney General’s Office sponsors free document destruction at eight locations throughout the state. Securely shredding personal documents is an important step toward preventing identity theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614007886340.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fairgrounds will be hosting its annual document shredding event on Monday. The event is sponsored by the Kansas Attorney General's Office as part of National Consumer Protection Week.&nbsp;The Hutchinson event is at gate 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those wanting to discard documents are asked to enter at gate 3.Each year, the Kansas Attorney General’s Office sponsors free document destruction at eight locations throughout the state. Securely shredding personal documents is an important step toward preventing identity theft.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Document shredding event Monday at fairgrounds


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A formal authorization on Johnson &amp; Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine happened Saturday. Kansas U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall, M.D. says if that's the vaccine available, it's worth taking.

"Absolutely," Marshall said. "Even though the other ones are incredibly effective, like 90 percent effective after two shots, which is unheard of. The flu vaccines we get every year are probably 60 or 70 percent effective and this one, the Johnson &amp; Johnson, is probably more in line with the flu vaccine. Yes, I think, if it's available, people can get it. I won't be surprised if there's a booster shot available this fall, as well. I think we've got to take what we can get."

The Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine had an overall efficacy rate of 72 percent in the United States and 64 percent in South Africa. Johnson &amp; Johnson’s vaccine is approved as a single dose, the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are two doses.

"We pretty well have two shots in all of the senior citizens across the country now," Marshall said. "Hospitalization is down in Kansas 70%. We've got this virus on the run. Don't let down, anybody. We need to keep our masks on, we need to keep washing our hands, social distancing, all those things. I really think that we're ramping up now. We have the infrastructure in place that we're going to win this battle. Spring is going to come after all."

A potential second dose for the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine is still in clinical trials.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A formal authorization on Johnson &amp; Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine happened Saturday. Kansas U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall, M.D. says if that's the vaccine available, it's worth taking."Absolutely," Marshall said. "Even though the other ones are incredibly effective, like 90 percent effective after two shots, which is unheard of. The flu vaccines we get every year are probably 60 or 70 percent effective and this one, the Johnson &amp; Johnson, is probably more in line with the flu vaccine. Yes, I think, if it's available, people can get it. I won't be surprised if there's a booster shot available this fall, as well. I think we've got to take what we can get."The Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine had an overall efficacy rate of 72 percent in the United States and 64 percent in South Africa. Johnson &amp; Johnson’s vaccine is approved as a single dose, the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are two doses."We pretty well have two shots in all of the senior citizens across the country now," Marshall said. "Hospitalization is down in Kansas 70%. We've got this virus on the run. Don't let down, anybody. We need to keep our masks on, we need to keep washing our hands, social distancing, all those things. I really think that we're ramping up now. We have the infrastructure in place that we're going to win this battle. Spring is going to come after all."A potential second dose for the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine is still in clinical trials.

Marshall: Take whichever COVID vaccine you can get

A dense fog advisory remains in effect until 11 a.m. Saturday. 

Visibility could be less than a quarter of a mile in spots. Driving conditions will be hazardous where fog is present. If you are driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614424379208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A dense fog advisory remains in effect until 11 a.m. Saturday. Visibility could be less than a quarter of a mile in spots. Driving conditions will be hazardous where fog is present. If you are driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you.

Dense fog could be dangerous Saturday morning


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 123 as of Friday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 138. 

The school gating criteria will remain in the yellow for the upcoming week, which should allow the districts that have been planning for a March 1 return to do so.

Out of 7,707 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,446 recoveries. There are 14 clusters still being monitored. The long-term care facility cluster type is down to just 13 active cases.

<figure>
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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The overall COVID-19 case count in Reno County is at 123 as of Friday. The death count among Reno County residents is at 138. The school gating criteria will remain in the yellow for the upcoming week, which should allow the districts that have been planning for a March 1 return to do so.Out of 7,707 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 7,446 recoveries. There are 14 clusters still being monitored. The long-term care facility cluster type is down to just 13 active cases.Three Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred sixty-five total have been hospitalized. One hundred three have been admitted to the ICU. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.Drive-thru testing is currently available at two Reno County Locations at the Kansas Cosmosphere at 1100 N Plum in Hutchinson and at Simply Good Overstocks at 401 N Main in South Hutchinson.Both sites are open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. To make an appointment, please visit www.gogettested.com.

Case count at 123, just three in hospital as of Friday

Dense fog is around, an accident kills three people in Marion County and the U.S. House passes another COVID relief package, plus more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
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 </figure>Dense fog is around, an accident kills three people in Marion County and the U.S. House passes another COVID relief package, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="February 27, 2021 Saturday News" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/5zk25-fc0d21?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

February 27, 2021 News

MARION COUNTY — Three people died in an accident just after noon Friday in Marion County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Nathan D.&nbsp;Puett, 30, Salina, was eastbound on U.S. 56 four miles west of Limestone Road.&nbsp; The van crossed the centerline and struck a 2000 Ford F150 pulling a greyhound dog trailer and driven by James L. Potter, 70, Emporia, head-on.

Puett was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Yazel-Megli Funeral Home.&nbsp; Potter and a passenger in the Ford Jody L. Potter, 61, Emporia, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Jost Funeral Home.&nbsp;

EMS transported two child passengers in the van from Salina to a Wichita hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

The occupants of the van were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The KHP did not have seat belt usage information on the occupants of the Ford.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614381759333.png" alt="Authorities at the crash scene Friday afternoon -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Authorities at the crash scene Friday afternoon -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>MARION COUNTY — Three people died in an accident just after noon Friday in Marion County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Nathan D.&nbsp;Puett, 30, Salina, was eastbound on U.S. 56 four miles west of Limestone Road.&nbsp; The van crossed the centerline and struck a 2000 Ford F150 pulling a greyhound dog trailer and driven by James L. Potter, 70, Emporia, head-on.Puett was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Yazel-Megli Funeral Home.&nbsp; Potter and a passenger in the Ford Jody L. Potter, 61, Emporia, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Jost Funeral Home.&nbsp;EMS transported two child passengers in the van from Salina to a Wichita hospital for treatment of serious injuries.The occupants of the van were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The KHP did not have seat belt usage information on the occupants of the Ford.

3 dead, 2 children hospitalized after head-on crash

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is a light agenda for the Hutchinson City Council Tuesday. As of right now, the only agenda item is an ordinance that would allow the city to use its power of eminent domain to acquire a small piece of land that will be used for the Cow Creek drainage improvement project.

The parcel of land is located along the creek near Avenue F and on the opposite side of the Cargill Salt rail line.

The council will also provide its own reports and hear the city manager’s report. The council will also seek approval to appoint Jim Seitnater to replace Ron Sellers on the Hutch Rec Commission. Seitnater will fill the unexpired term to run through August 2021.

The council will hear presentations from Kari Mailloux of the Hutchinson Community Foundation and Jim Remar of the Comosphere.

Tuesday’s meeting of the Hutchinson City Council begins at 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614286607818.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is a light agenda for the Hutchinson City Council Tuesday. As of right now, the only agenda item is an ordinance that would allow the city to use its power of eminent domain to acquire a small piece of land that will be used for the Cow Creek drainage improvement project.The parcel of land is located along the creek near Avenue F and on the opposite side of the Cargill Salt rail line.The council will also provide its own reports and hear the city manager’s report. The council will also seek approval to appoint Jim Seitnater to replace Ron Sellers on the Hutch Rec Commission. Seitnater will fill the unexpired term to run through August 2021.The council will hear presentations from Kari Mailloux of the Hutchinson Community Foundation and Jim Remar of the Comosphere.Tuesday’s meeting of the Hutchinson City Council begins at 9 a.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City Council to take action on eminent domain for Cow Creek project

RENO COUNTY, Kan.-&nbsp;The Reno County District Attorney’s office announces the appointment of Andrew Davidson to the Deputy District Attorney position, effective January 1. Davidson grew up in Hutchinson, Kansas, and graduated from Buhler High School in 1997. After graduation, he attended the University of Kansas, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in United States History in 2001. Davidson continued his education at Washburn University School of Law and graduated in 2004.&nbsp;

After law school, Davidson was an associate for the Law Firm of Tenopir and Huerter in Topeka, Kansas, practicing criminal law, domestic and family law, and other areas general legal practice. In 2009 Davidson was hired as an Assistant County Attorney in McPherson County, prosecuting juvenile and child in need of care cases, traffic and driving under the influence cases, drug crimes, and other person crimes.&nbsp; He also served on the McPherson &amp; Harvey County Community Corrections Advisory Board.

In February 2011, Davidson joined the Reno County District Attorney’s Office as an Assistant District Attorney. He was responsible for traffic and driving under the influence cases, misdemeanors, and property felonies. In 2015 he began prosecuting financial crimes and drug felonies. In 2018, Davidson was promoted to Senior Assistant District Attorney and assigned to prosecuting person felonies.

As Deputy District Attorney, Davidson will take on additional duties including administering the office in the absence of the District Attorney, assisting in the training and supervision of the prosecutors within the office, and advising the District Attorney on a wide variety of issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614365557141.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY, Kan.-&nbsp;The Reno County District Attorney’s office announces the appointment of Andrew Davidson to the Deputy District Attorney position, effective January 1. Davidson grew up in Hutchinson, Kansas, and graduated from Buhler High School in 1997. After graduation, he attended the University of Kansas, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in United States History in 2001. Davidson continued his education at Washburn University School of Law and graduated in 2004.&nbsp;After law school, Davidson was an associate for the Law Firm of Tenopir and Huerter in Topeka, Kansas, practicing criminal law, domestic and family law, and other areas general legal practice. In 2009 Davidson was hired as an Assistant County Attorney in McPherson County, prosecuting juvenile and child in need of care cases, traffic and driving under the influence cases, drug crimes, and other person crimes.&nbsp; He also served on the McPherson &amp; Harvey County Community Corrections Advisory Board.In February 2011, Davidson joined the Reno County District Attorney’s Office as an Assistant District Attorney. He was responsible for traffic and driving under the influence cases, misdemeanors, and property felonies. In 2015 he began prosecuting financial crimes and drug felonies. In 2018, Davidson was promoted to Senior Assistant District Attorney and assigned to prosecuting person felonies.As Deputy District Attorney, Davidson will take on additional duties including administering the office in the absence of the District Attorney, assisting in the training and supervision of the prosecutors within the office, and advising the District Attorney on a wide variety of issues.

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