HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Historical Society announced Thursday that Strataca will require face masks for all guests that ride the hoist starting Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The hoist is the only location that the museum cannot abide by any social distancing guidelines. Because of this, everyone must wear a face mask for the 90-second ride going from topside to underground and vice versa. The museum also strongly recommends that guests wear their mask throughout the experience, but it is not required where social distancing is provided.&nbsp;

Officials with Strataca say they appreciate the public understanding and look forward to serving guests.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Historical Society announced Thursday that Strataca will require face masks for all guests that ride the hoist starting Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The hoist is the only location that the museum cannot abide by any social distancing guidelines. Because of this, everyone must wear a face mask for the 90-second ride going from topside to underground and vice versa. The museum also strongly recommends that guests wear their mask throughout the experience, but it is not required where social distancing is provided.&nbsp;Officials with Strataca say they appreciate the public understanding and look forward to serving guests.

Strataca to require face masks for visitors

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the Independence Day holiday on Saturday, many government offices are taking Friday the 3rd off to celebrate.

All city and county offices will be closed on Friday including the county annex and district and municipal court. The post office will deliver mail on Friday but will not have Saturday service.

The landfill will be open on Friday but will be closed on Saturday.

All offices will reopen again Monday, July 6th.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the Independence Day holiday on Saturday, many government offices are taking Friday the 3rd off to celebrate.All city and county offices will be closed on Friday including the county annex and district and municipal court. The post office will deliver mail on Friday but will not have Saturday service.The landfill will be open on Friday but will be closed on Saturday.All offices will reopen again Monday, July 6th.

Many government offices closed Friday

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

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

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

Recent obituaries


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Sheriff Darrian Campbell reminds residents to plan ahead for 4th of July celebrations this weekend and get a designated driver if you choose to consume adult beverages. It's also important to note that if you have any other complaints and a member of the department is dispatched, it could take awhile.

"The county is made up of 1257 square miles," Sheriff Campbell said. "When someone reports or calls in on a neighbor, a noise complaint or something like that, just be patient, it's going to take us a minute to get out there, but we do respond."

Fires are typically handled by the local fire district.

"If there's a fire, of course the fire department responds," Campbell said.&nbsp;

Sale and discharge of fireworks is legal in Reno County from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. now through July 4.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Sheriff Darrian Campbell reminds residents to plan ahead for 4th of July celebrations this weekend and get a designated driver if you choose to consume adult beverages. It's also important to note that if you have any other complaints and a member of the department is dispatched, it could take awhile."The county is made up of 1257 square miles," Sheriff Campbell said. "When someone reports or calls in on a neighbor, a noise complaint or something like that, just be patient, it's going to take us a minute to get out there, but we do respond."Fires are typically handled by the local fire district."If there's a fire, of course the fire department responds," Campbell said.&nbsp;Sale and discharge of fireworks is legal in Reno County from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. now through July 4.

Reno County Sheriff reminds residents response can take time


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department is continuing to work with all local long term care facilities to create and administer appropriate reopening plans for each entity. 

Said plans seek to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents, staff, and the Reno County community in accordance with direction furnished by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services.

It should be recognized that each long term care facility is beholden to further regulation external of those in Reno County which includes, but is not limited to, those from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services.

Further, great care continues to be taken to ensure the most complete and competent plans for reopening are put forth to ensure the safety of all. Recognition by the community of the omittance of long-term care facilities in the most recent House Bill 2016 which sought to create liability coverage following dutiful safety protocol and procedures being put in place, is appreciated.

The long-term care community and the Reno County Health Department appreciate the patience and grace exercised by the community as each organization’s plans are developed and installed.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department is continuing to work with all local long term care facilities to create and administer appropriate reopening plans for each entity. Said plans seek to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents, staff, and the Reno County community in accordance with direction furnished by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services.It should be recognized that each long term care facility is beholden to further regulation external of those in Reno County which includes, but is not limited to, those from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services.Further, great care continues to be taken to ensure the most complete and competent plans for reopening are put forth to ensure the safety of all. Recognition by the community of the omittance of long-term care facilities in the most recent House Bill 2016 which sought to create liability coverage following dutiful safety protocol and procedures being put in place, is appreciated.The long-term care community and the Reno County Health Department appreciate the patience and grace exercised by the community as each organization’s plans are developed and installed.

Reno County Health Department still working on plans for long-term care facilities


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA) entered into force on Wednesday, and Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall noted that the agreement is a win for ag producers.

"It's a high priority for us and for the President, as well," Marshall said. "I was very proud to participate in the final negotiations in Mexico City. What this means for Kansas, it certainly opens more markets for the dairy folks. Beyond that, it just makes everything more efficient. Whether you're selling corn or wheat to folks in Canada or Mexico or trying to build planes in Wichita, Kansas, it's just going to make everything more efficient and drive the cost of doing business down."

There is still much more to be accomplished in trade in the coming years.

"Holding China accountable, making sure they live up to what they agreed to, buying the products from Kansas they agreed to. Beyond that, though, I think there's opportunities to do a bit better bilateral agreement with Great Britain, now that they've exited the European Union. Certainly, with the European Union itself, we need to redo that agreement, India and African nations, as well also need to be done."

Fifty-five percent of ag export markets have deals completed. Marshall wants to see the administration get to work on the other 45%.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA) entered into force on Wednesday, and Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall noted that the agreement is a win for ag producers."It's a high priority for us and for the President, as well," Marshall said. "I was very proud to participate in the final negotiations in Mexico City. What this means for Kansas, it certainly opens more markets for the dairy folks. Beyond that, it just makes everything more efficient. Whether you're selling corn or wheat to folks in Canada or Mexico or trying to build planes in Wichita, Kansas, it's just going to make everything more efficient and drive the cost of doing business down."There is still much more to be accomplished in trade in the coming years."Holding China accountable, making sure they live up to what they agreed to, buying the products from Kansas they agreed to. Beyond that, though, I think there's opportunities to do a bit better bilateral agreement with Great Britain, now that they've exited the European Union. Certainly, with the European Union itself, we need to redo that agreement, India and African nations, as well also need to be done."Fifty-five percent of ag export markets have deals completed. Marshall wants to see the administration get to work on the other 45%.

Marshall: USMCA now in force, but still lots to do in trade


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County now has ten active cases of COVID-19.

The four new cases announced Wednesday include a related male and female in their 30s and 40s respectively with a known source of exposure and a male in his 20s with a known source of exposure, along with a female under the age of 18 with an unknown source of exposure.

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

The ten active cases are being investigated to establish isolation requirements and identify close contacts so that appropriate quarantine requirements can be implemented.

Reno County has run 2,697 tests with 2,632 negatives for a positive case rate of 2.41%. A total of 4.29% of Reno County has been tested thus far.

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

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County now has ten active cases of COVID-19.The four new cases announced Wednesday include a related male and female in their 30s and 40s respectively with a known source of exposure and a male in his 20s with a known source of exposure, along with a female under the age of 18 with an unknown source of exposure.Fifty-seven previously confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Reno County have recovered from their illness and are no longer considered contagious per disease investigation guidelines furnished by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.The ten active cases are being investigated to establish isolation requirements and identify close contacts so that appropriate quarantine requirements can be implemented.Reno County has run 2,697 tests with 2,632 negatives for a positive case rate of 2.41%. A total of 4.29% of Reno County has been tested thus far.Continue good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, wearing a mask when going out in public, limiting handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

Reno County now with 10 active COVID-19 cases


HARVEY COUNTY — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 42nd case of COVID-19 in Harvey County.

The confirmed case is a man in his 40s. The case remains under investigation. Testing was completed by a private lab. The individual is in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individual, as well as follow up on all close contacts.

Harvey County has had 42 COVID-19 cases to date, including 38 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 18 known active cases in Harvey County. None of these individuals are currently hospitalized.

There have been 1,721 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

As of today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 14,990 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 182,797 completed tests in Kansas.

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HARVEY COUNTY — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 42nd case of COVID-19 in Harvey County.The confirmed case is a man in his 40s. The case remains under investigation. Testing was completed by a private lab. The individual is in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individual, as well as follow up on all close contacts.Harvey County has had 42 COVID-19 cases to date, including 38 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 18 known active cases in Harvey County. None of these individuals are currently hospitalized.There have been 1,721 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.As of today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 14,990 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 182,797 completed tests in Kansas.

Harvey County active COVID-19 case count at 18


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Lynsey Becher with Stage 9 is looking for a way to continue to entertain the Salt City safely.

"We are actually working with the Art Center and Blue Barn Productions on a Virtual Dinner Theater," Becher said. 

The dinner theater show for July 31 and August 1 is both local and topical.

"The topic is, if you can believe it, the pandemic," Becher said. "Patrick Calvillo and I wrote a script that is original to Hutchinson. It's called Hutchinson: The Pandemic. It has some people that some people might now, such as Jade Piros de Carvalho and Jason Probst and Nick Baldetti and it's a story about Hutchinson in this crazy time we're living in."

The show is meant to be a lighthearted take on the situation, if there can be one.

"It's 100% comedy and it's probably 100% a total joke," Becher said. "Because, if we can't laugh about our situation, then we might be really, really depressed. Who wants to sit around being depressed?"

The performances will be streamed on Youtube, Mi Tierra is working with Stage 9 and has created a specific menu for the show. When you buy a ticket at <a href="https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?t=tix&amp;e=10d2bee2836b006f9b22c0ed00bc73d4&amp;vqitq=47c540ea-a83c-49d5-963a-b5bf2048488a&amp;vqitp=dfd9ad29-9c9b-4fe9-99dc-f294109b8c91&amp;vqitts=1593629347&amp;vqitc=vendini&amp;vqite=itl&amp;vqitrt=Safetynet&amp;vqith=56bf7e6383da8baec18ad42eb9de6b95">Stage9hutch.com</a>, you're going to get a Youtube link. You can also order from&nbsp;<a href="https://my.cheddarup.com/c/hutchthepandemic">https://my.cheddarup.com/c/hutchthepandemic</a>&nbsp;and order from the Mi Tierra menu to have it delivered in time to watch the show at home at 7:30 p.m. either night.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Lynsey Becher with Stage 9 is looking for a way to continue to entertain the Salt City safely."We are actually working with the Art Center and Blue Barn Productions on a Virtual Dinner Theater," Becher said. The dinner theater show for July 31 and August 1 is both local and topical."The topic is, if you can believe it, the pandemic," Becher said. "Patrick Calvillo and I wrote a script that is original to Hutchinson. It's called Hutchinson: The Pandemic. It has some people that some people might now, such as Jade Piros de Carvalho and Jason Probst and Nick Baldetti and it's a story about Hutchinson in this crazy time we're living in."The show is meant to be a lighthearted take on the situation, if there can be one."It's 100% comedy and it's probably 100% a total joke," Becher said. "Because, if we can't laugh about our situation, then we might be really, really depressed. Who wants to sit around being depressed?"The performances will be streamed on Youtube, Mi Tierra is working with Stage 9 and has created a specific menu for the show. When you buy a ticket at <a href="https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?t=tix&amp;e=10d2bee2836b006f9b22c0ed00bc73d4&amp;vqitq=47c540ea-a83c-49d5-963a-b5bf2048488a&amp;vqitp=dfd9ad29-9c9b-4fe9-99dc-f294109b8c91&amp;vqitts=1593629347&amp;vqitc=vendini&amp;vqite=itl&amp;vqitrt=Safetynet&amp;vqith=56bf7e6383da8baec18ad42eb9de6b95">Stage9hutch.com</a>, you're going to get a Youtube link. You can also order from&nbsp;<a href="https://my.cheddarup.com/c/hutchthepandemic">https://my.cheddarup.com/c/hutchthepandemic</a>&nbsp;and order from the Mi Tierra menu to have it delivered in time to watch the show at home at 7:30 p.m. either night.

Hutchinson: The Pandemic! Virtual Dinner Theater coming up

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Race is more of an issue in Kansas K-12 education in recent years than it was in previous decades simply because the student population is <a href="https://kasb.org/blog/despite-some-progress-large-differences-in-kansas-educational-attainment-by-race-remain/">more diverse</a>.

"I went to work for the school board association in 1990," said Kansas Association of School Boards Vice-President for Advocacy, Mark Tallman. "Coincidentally, a lot of consistent data is available from then to now. When I started, at that point, about 80 to 85% of Kansas students identified as white. In the not quite 30 years since then, that has dropped to only about 65%. African-American enrollment has remained pretty stable. The big increase has been in Hispanic enrollment and students identifying with multiple races."

It may feel like everyone graduates from high school now, but that's not the case.

"High school graduation, actually, overall, is right around 90%," Tallman said. "In fact, the percent of students that graduate exactly in four years, which you might call on time is about 87, 88 percent. That's been increasing over the last, really over decades. Some kids go on and finish within a few years, so overall, we're about 90%. White students are several percentage points above that. African-American and Hispanic students are below that."

Boys don't graduate at the same rate as girls in every racial group.

"Good news is, the students that have not been doing as well have been improving a little bit faster, so that gap is closing," Tallman said. "It's still a significant gap. It would still take some years before that would be closed."

The overall graduation rate is still historically as high as it has ever been.&nbsp;

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Race is more of an issue in Kansas K-12 education in recent years than it was in previous decades simply because the student population is <a href="https://kasb.org/blog/despite-some-progress-large-differences-in-kansas-educational-attainment-by-race-remain/">more diverse</a>."I went to work for the school board association in 1990," said Kansas Association of School Boards Vice-President for Advocacy, Mark Tallman. "Coincidentally, a lot of consistent data is available from then to now. When I started, at that point, about 80 to 85% of Kansas students identified as white. In the not quite 30 years since then, that has dropped to only about 65%. African-American enrollment has remained pretty stable. The big increase has been in Hispanic enrollment and students identifying with multiple races."It may feel like everyone graduates from high school now, but that's not the case."High school graduation, actually, overall, is right around 90%," Tallman said. "In fact, the percent of students that graduate exactly in four years, which you might call on time is about 87, 88 percent. That's been increasing over the last, really over decades. Some kids go on and finish within a few years, so overall, we're about 90%. White students are several percentage points above that. African-American and Hispanic students are below that."Boys don't graduate at the same rate as girls in every racial group."Good news is, the students that have not been doing as well have been improving a little bit faster, so that gap is closing," Tallman said. "It's still a significant gap. It would still take some years before that would be closed."The overall graduation rate is still historically as high as it has ever been.&nbsp;

Tallman: Student population more diverse, closing achievement gap


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Daniel Friesen is running for county commissioner in Reno County in the Republican primary, but he's no stranger to public service.

"I'm mayor of Buhler, I've been mayor of Buhler for 10 years now," Friesen said. "I like being involved in the government work. I certainly like giving back in that respect."

The co-founder of Ideatek would like to see Reno County continue to be an area where those who want to start businesses can come to.

"I've got some pretty simple goals," Friesen said. "One is tax stability and tax reduction, the other is economic development. I believe if we can develop the economy, kind of grow the tax base, there are ways to pay for the things we need like roads and bridges without raising taxes."

With his background in the technology sector, he believes he can be an asset to the commission.

"I certainly have an affinity for that, working in the broadband building space," Friesen said. "I would like to apply those kind of same technology and efficiency principles at Reno County and find ways to reduce overhead and do things a little more efficient there."

You can find out more about Friesen at his campaign <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Friesen4RenoCo/">Facebook page</a>.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Daniel Friesen is running for county commissioner in Reno County in the Republican primary, but he's no stranger to public service."I'm mayor of Buhler, I've been mayor of Buhler for 10 years now," Friesen said. "I like being involved in the government work. I certainly like giving back in that respect."The co-founder of Ideatek would like to see Reno County continue to be an area where those who want to start businesses can come to."I've got some pretty simple goals," Friesen said. "One is tax stability and tax reduction, the other is economic development. I believe if we can develop the economy, kind of grow the tax base, there are ways to pay for the things we need like roads and bridges without raising taxes."With his background in the technology sector, he believes he can be an asset to the commission."I certainly have an affinity for that, working in the broadband building space," Friesen said. "I would like to apply those kind of same technology and efficiency principles at Reno County and find ways to reduce overhead and do things a little more efficient there."You can find out more about Friesen at his campaign <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Friesen4RenoCo/">Facebook page</a>.

Friesen says he has simple goals if elected to county commission



HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The
36th Annual Patriots Parade will be held Saturday on Main Street in
Hutchinson. 



Based
on the decision of the county commission and after consulting with
the Reno County Health Department and the Hutchinson Police
Department, Eagle Communications is comfortable that the parade can
go forward as planned safely. 


"It
is important that the community continue to strike the balance
between concern for others and the use of proper hygiene practices
like social distancing and hand washing and staying home if you are
sick, while continuing to enjoy the things that make Hutchinson such
a unique and wonderful place to live," said Terry Drouhard,
Eagle Communications
Market
Manager. "We believe
that the citizens of Hutchinson can take that personal responsibility
and have fun."


The
36th Annual Patriots Parade will start at Ave B &amp; Main at 10 a.m.
and proceed north on Main to 12th Avenue. As much as possible, family
units should be seated 6 feet apart from one another along the route.
The use of face masks is encouraged, but not required.

“We
understand that every family has its own situation," Drouhard
said. "If you have additional personal risk factors that make
the parade an unacceptable risk for you in person, please feel free
to watch the event via video stream on HutchPost.com."


To
help reduce infection risk, please deposit trash in trash cans or
carry your trash out.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The
36th Annual Patriots Parade will be held Saturday on Main Street in
Hutchinson. 

Based
on the decision of the county commission and after consulting with
the Reno County Health Department and the Hutchinson Police
Department, Eagle Communications is comfortable that the parade can
go forward as planned safely. 
"It
is important that the community continue to strike the balance
between concern for others and the use of proper hygiene practices
like social distancing and hand washing and staying home if you are
sick, while continuing to enjoy the things that make Hutchinson such
a unique and wonderful place to live," said Terry Drouhard,
Eagle Communications
Market
Manager. "We believe
that the citizens of Hutchinson can take that personal responsibility
and have fun."
The
36th Annual Patriots Parade will start at Ave B &amp; Main at 10 a.m.
and proceed north on Main to 12th Avenue. As much as possible, family
units should be seated 6 feet apart from one another along the route.
The use of face masks is encouraged, but not required.“We
understand that every family has its own situation," Drouhard
said. "If you have additional personal risk factors that make
the parade an unacceptable risk for you in person, please feel free
to watch the event via video stream on HutchPost.com."
To
help reduce infection risk, please deposit trash in trash cans or
carry your trash out.

36th Annual Patriots Parade is on for Saturday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Kansas State Fair Board is allowing the fair to go forward in 2020, despite a <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/87f4b55e-59f3-456b-9b1e-534c987ffe66">recommendation from the state's top health official</a> that the board not continue the fair.

"We understand what a difficult decision you guys have," said Fair General Manager Robin Jennison. "It was relatively easy for us to put together the safest plan we thought there was to have a fair. The only thing that I would say to you to make sure that you're all doing what's really in your heart in this case is, the further we go, the tougher it is to unwind, and that's why we picked today."

The board voted 8 to 5 to continue forward with the fair, but canceled the rabbit show and to change online and advance tickets to $10 with on-site tickets at the gate now $12 for adults.

"I think we've all studied this to death since it started," Jennison said. "I've read more about COVID. I read a 1940 study on how, when people cough, what happens. We will do everything we can to make this fair as safe as possible. If we determine between now and then that we need to do some social distancing in the buildings or on the, in the grandstands, we'll make every attempt to do it as effectively as we can."

The Kansas State Fair is scheduled for Sept. 11 to 20, 2020.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Kansas State Fair Board is allowing the fair to go forward in 2020, despite a <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/87f4b55e-59f3-456b-9b1e-534c987ffe66">recommendation from the state's top health official</a> that the board not continue the fair."We understand what a difficult decision you guys have," said Fair General Manager Robin Jennison. "It was relatively easy for us to put together the safest plan we thought there was to have a fair. The only thing that I would say to you to make sure that you're all doing what's really in your heart in this case is, the further we go, the tougher it is to unwind, and that's why we picked today."The board voted 8 to 5 to continue forward with the fair, but canceled the rabbit show and to change online and advance tickets to $10 with on-site tickets at the gate now $12 for adults."I think we've all studied this to death since it started," Jennison said. "I've read more about COVID. I read a 1940 study on how, when people cough, what happens. We will do everything we can to make this fair as safe as possible. If we determine between now and then that we need to do some social distancing in the buildings or on the, in the grandstands, we'll make every attempt to do it as effectively as we can."The Kansas State Fair is scheduled for Sept. 11 to 20, 2020.

2020 Kansas State Fair to go forward, despite KDHE Secretary's advice

ABBYVILLE,
Kan. — 
The Abbyville Frontier Days Rodeo has announced that they are still going to Kick Open the Chutes this Friday and Saturday. Based on the decision of the county commission and after consulting with the Reno County Health Department, the rodeo will go on as planned. “We recognize that feelings about COVID-19 vary greatly,” said Rod Bergkamp, Abbyville Booster Club president. “We encourage people to act responsibly. We will have hand sanitizing stations available and we encourage social distancing when possible.”

The booster club had previously announced that the Saturday noon meal and BBQ had been cancelled. The concession stand will serve pre-packaged items. The rodeo is well-known for its pie. It will continue to be served in closed plastic containers as in the past. Condiments will be available in packets instead of a bottle that everyone uses.

“We’re going to celebrate the freedoms that we enjoy as Americans this weekend,” said Bergkamp. “Face masks are welcome but will not be required. If you don’t feel comfortable in coming to the rodeo, we certainly understand and would encourage you to choose another activity where you feel comfortable or to stay home.”

The vast majority of fans attending the rodeo are Reno County residents. The Abbyville City Council has requested that the temperature be taken for all rodeo contestants since they would be coming from other areas of the state and country. “We’re going to try to make the environment as safe as possible for all those who choose to attend,” said Bergkamp.

The rodeo will start at 8:00 p.m. both nights with a goat roping and ranch rodeo during the day on Saturday. Friday night fans are asked to join the booster club in showing support for our local law enforcement by wearing blue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587483443443.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ABBYVILLE,
Kan. — 
The Abbyville Frontier Days Rodeo has announced that they are still going to Kick Open the Chutes this Friday and Saturday. Based on the decision of the county commission and after consulting with the Reno County Health Department, the rodeo will go on as planned. “We recognize that feelings about COVID-19 vary greatly,” said Rod Bergkamp, Abbyville Booster Club president. “We encourage people to act responsibly. We will have hand sanitizing stations available and we encourage social distancing when possible.”The booster club had previously announced that the Saturday noon meal and BBQ had been cancelled. The concession stand will serve pre-packaged items. The rodeo is well-known for its pie. It will continue to be served in closed plastic containers as in the past. Condiments will be available in packets instead of a bottle that everyone uses.“We’re going to celebrate the freedoms that we enjoy as Americans this weekend,” said Bergkamp. “Face masks are welcome but will not be required. If you don’t feel comfortable in coming to the rodeo, we certainly understand and would encourage you to choose another activity where you feel comfortable or to stay home.”The vast majority of fans attending the rodeo are Reno County residents. The Abbyville City Council has requested that the temperature be taken for all rodeo contestants since they would be coming from other areas of the state and country. “We’re going to try to make the environment as safe as possible for all those who choose to attend,” said Bergkamp.The rodeo will start at 8:00 p.m. both nights with a goat roping and ranch rodeo during the day on Saturday. Friday night fans are asked to join the booster club in showing support for our local law enforcement by wearing blue.

Abbyville Rodeo to go on this weekend


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutch Rec and Hutch Chamber, in a partnership through the Hutchinson Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative, is starting work in its next featured neighborhood, Downtown Hutchinson.

This joint effort will allow Hutch Rec staff to engage with Downtown Hutchinson residents and employees, while the Hutch Chamber will oversee conversations with business and building owners.

The first phase of the process includes one-on-one conversations with Downtown Hutchinson residents and businesses, which will begin in July. Phase two includes data collection, followed by neighborhood gatherings and action. Typically, this process takes six to nine months.

The Hutchinson Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative is a collaborate approach in improving the marketability of area neighborhoods, with the overarching goal of ensuring that Hutchinson is an attractive place to live, work, play, and raise a family.

For more information on the newest downtown neighborhood work, or to become involved in a resident conversation, contact Amy Conkling, Director of Marketing &amp; Development at Hutch Rec, (620) 663-6179 or aconkling@hutchrec.com, or Lacie Janzen, Communications, Events &amp; Downtown Coordinator at the Hutch Chamber, at (620) 860-8661 or laciej@hutchchamber.com.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593554087628.jpeg" alt="" />
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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutch Rec and Hutch Chamber, in a partnership through the Hutchinson Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative, is starting work in its next featured neighborhood, Downtown Hutchinson.This joint effort will allow Hutch Rec staff to engage with Downtown Hutchinson residents and employees, while the Hutch Chamber will oversee conversations with business and building owners.The first phase of the process includes one-on-one conversations with Downtown Hutchinson residents and businesses, which will begin in July. Phase two includes data collection, followed by neighborhood gatherings and action. Typically, this process takes six to nine months.The Hutchinson Healthy Neighborhoods Initiative is a collaborate approach in improving the marketability of area neighborhoods, with the overarching goal of ensuring that Hutchinson is an attractive place to live, work, play, and raise a family.For more information on the newest downtown neighborhood work, or to become involved in a resident conversation, contact Amy Conkling, Director of Marketing &amp; Development at Hutch Rec, (620) 663-6179 or aconkling@hutchrec.com, or Lacie Janzen, Communications, Events &amp; Downtown Coordinator at the Hutch Chamber, at (620) 860-8661 or laciej@hutchchamber.com.

Hutch Rec, Hutch Chamber to begin Downtown Neighborhood process

Waldron Place in Hutchinson, KS, assisted living by Americare, updated its COVID-19 testing status.

All residents and employees were tested for the virus and all results have come back negative for COVID-19. In addition, the employee who originally tested positive is considered recovered from the virus.

The in-room quarantine for the Arbors is being lifted and will be lifted at the assisted living building on Wednesday, July 1. A no visitors policy is still in place at the facility.

All test results have been reported to state and local health departments, and all residents, employees and resident family members have been updated.

For more information on how Americare facilities are addressing the coronavirus pandemic please visit our website at <a href="https://www.americareusa.net/coronavirus">https://www.americareusa.net/coronavirus</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593167339950.jpeg" alt="Waldron Place Hutch" />
 <figcaption>Waldron Place Hutch</figcaption>
 </figure>Waldron Place in Hutchinson, KS, assisted living by Americare, updated its COVID-19 testing status.All residents and employees were tested for the virus and all results have come back negative for COVID-19. In addition, the employee who originally tested positive is considered recovered from the virus.The in-room quarantine for the Arbors is being lifted and will be lifted at the assisted living building on Wednesday, July 1. A no visitors policy is still in place at the facility.All test results have been reported to state and local health departments, and all residents, employees and resident family members have been updated.For more information on how Americare facilities are addressing the coronavirus pandemic please visit our website at <a href="https://www.americareusa.net/coronavirus">https://www.americareusa.net/coronavirus</a>.

Waldron Place with no positive cases of COVID-19, employee has recovered


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman advised the State Fair Board at their meeting on Tuesday that they should cancel the fair.

"If I were only talking about it from a public health perspective, it would be best to not have the State Fair," Norman said. "There's no question, it will engender illness."

Norman doesn't think fairgoers will wear masks.

"I think it will be a really tough sell for people to comply with social distancing and mask wearing for example, at a fair, whether it's a state fair, county fair, music venue, that kind of thing," Norman said. "People just aren't doing it, quite honestly."

Another concern is that inmates from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility often work helping to clean up the fairgrounds.

"I'm making the strong recommendation to Secretary Zmuda to not allow the offenders out of there," Norman said. "I've been through this at Lansing, I've been through this in the Wichita Work Release. If a few people go into that facility, there's going to be a thousand cases inside the correctional facility at Hutchinson. Not being hysterical, that's just what we've seen. Anytime it's a confined living situation like that and that facility is old."

At least sixteen other state fairs across the U.S. have already been canceled.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman advised the State Fair Board at their meeting on Tuesday that they should cancel the fair."If I were only talking about it from a public health perspective, it would be best to not have the State Fair," Norman said. "There's no question, it will engender illness."Norman doesn't think fairgoers will wear masks."I think it will be a really tough sell for people to comply with social distancing and mask wearing for example, at a fair, whether it's a state fair, county fair, music venue, that kind of thing," Norman said. "People just aren't doing it, quite honestly."Another concern is that inmates from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility often work helping to clean up the fairgrounds."I'm making the strong recommendation to Secretary Zmuda to not allow the offenders out of there," Norman said. "I've been through this at Lansing, I've been through this in the Wichita Work Release. If a few people go into that facility, there's going to be a thousand cases inside the correctional facility at Hutchinson. Not being hysterical, that's just what we've seen. Anytime it's a confined living situation like that and that facility is old."At least sixteen other state fairs across the U.S. have already been canceled.

KDHE Secretary advises cancellation of 2020 Kansas State Fair

PRATT COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6a.m. Tuesday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Carla Ann Woods, 61, Haviland, was eastbound on U.S. 54 one mile west of Pratt.

The pickup veered into the south ditch. The driver attempted to turn back onto the roadway, lost control and the pickup began to slide broadside into the west bound lane of traffic.&nbsp;

A 2007 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Felix&nbsp;Moreno-Mateo, 32, Wichita, struck the pickup.

Woods was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Larrison Mortuary.

Moreno-Mateo was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593540712538.png" alt="Scene of the fatal Tuesday crash in Pratt County -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Scene of the fatal Tuesday crash in Pratt County -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6a.m. Tuesday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by Carla Ann Woods, 61, Haviland, was eastbound on U.S. 54 one mile west of Pratt.The pickup veered into the south ditch. The driver attempted to turn back onto the roadway, lost control and the pickup began to slide broadside into the west bound lane of traffic.&nbsp;A 2007 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Felix&nbsp;Moreno-Mateo, 32, Wichita, struck the pickup.Woods was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Larrison Mortuary.Moreno-Mateo was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after Pratt Co. pickup, semi crash


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Officer Nick Baldetti is going to be writing a new Health Order, to be put into effect once the language of Governor Laura Kelly's Executive Order is clear. That health order will not mandate mask usage in Reno County, though it is still recommended.

"I think that's a good plan," said Commission Chair Ron Sellers. "I agree with that plan. My only comment is that, in my opinion, the citizens of Reno County should do all they can to help our Health Officer keep the numbers of the virus in Reno County down and I think that can be helped by wearing masks where it's appropriate."

Baldetti says the science on mask wearing is clear.

"Mask use is a fundamental public health practice that can mitigate the spread of any aerosolized body," Baldetti said. "It doesn't have to be fancy. It isn't about the viral body spreading through how tight knit the mask is itself or what have you. What it's about is simply creating a barrier between the respiratory pathway and the expulsion of the aerosolized droplets. That's all it is."

It's supposed to keep you from spreading virus to others, not to keep them from spreading to you. With that said, Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton made clear he doesn't have the resources to bring civil actions against those who fail to wear masks.

"Looking at responses, just to the rumors of this order would indicate that there are a plethora of Reno County residents who will refuse to follow this order," Stanton said. "That's not why I'm here, to discuss whether they should or shouldn't, my point is, it appears that's going to happen. There's no way for us to really enforce in the manner and way which we would have several months ago."

Stanton just doesn't have the time and resources to chase down those cases. If a business were to post signage requiring masks, there are other statutes, like trespassing that could potentially apply, if a person were to refuse to mask up and refuse to leave, but mask wearing compliance alone, apart from that defiance, is a civil act, according to the new statute passed by the Legislature during the special session.

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Officer Nick Baldetti is going to be writing a new Health Order, to be put into effect once the language of Governor Laura Kelly's Executive Order is clear. That health order will not mandate mask usage in Reno County, though it is still recommended."I think that's a good plan," said Commission Chair Ron Sellers. "I agree with that plan. My only comment is that, in my opinion, the citizens of Reno County should do all they can to help our Health Officer keep the numbers of the virus in Reno County down and I think that can be helped by wearing masks where it's appropriate."Baldetti says the science on mask wearing is clear."Mask use is a fundamental public health practice that can mitigate the spread of any aerosolized body," Baldetti said. "It doesn't have to be fancy. It isn't about the viral body spreading through how tight knit the mask is itself or what have you. What it's about is simply creating a barrier between the respiratory pathway and the expulsion of the aerosolized droplets. That's all it is."It's supposed to keep you from spreading virus to others, not to keep them from spreading to you. With that said, Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton made clear he doesn't have the resources to bring civil actions against those who fail to wear masks."Looking at responses, just to the rumors of this order would indicate that there are a plethora of Reno County residents who will refuse to follow this order," Stanton said. "That's not why I'm here, to discuss whether they should or shouldn't, my point is, it appears that's going to happen. There's no way for us to really enforce in the manner and way which we would have several months ago."Stanton just doesn't have the time and resources to chase down those cases. If a business were to post signage requiring masks, there are other statutes, like trespassing that could potentially apply, if a person were to refuse to mask up and refuse to leave, but mask wearing compliance alone, apart from that defiance, is a civil act, according to the new statute passed by the Legislature during the special session.

New health order to be written, masks recommended, not mandated

COVID-19 is taking its toll on summer travel.

"We're projecting that Americans will take 700 million trips from July through September," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That number is down nearly 15% compared to last summer and is the first decline in summer travel since 2009."

Travelers will be getting in their cars if they do go anywhere.

"That will account for 97% of vacations," Steward said. "Car trips will also see the smallest decrease in travel volume of just 3% year over year," Steward said.

The share of travelers making plans 48 hours to 7 days before departure – a sign that people are arranging last-minute trips – is significantly higher than normal.

"Were it not for the pandemic, AAA would be projecting 857 million trips during the third quarter, which would be a 3.6% increase over last year," Steward said.

Kansas has had the fourth largest monthly increase in gas prices during June.

COVID-19 is taking its toll on summer travel."We're projecting that Americans will take 700 million trips from July through September," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That number is down nearly 15% compared to last summer and is the first decline in summer travel since 2009."Travelers will be getting in their cars if they do go anywhere."That will account for 97% of vacations," Steward said. "Car trips will also see the smallest decrease in travel volume of just 3% year over year," Steward said.The share of travelers making plans 48 hours to 7 days before departure – a sign that people are arranging last-minute trips – is significantly higher than normal."Were it not for the pandemic, AAA would be projecting 857 million trips during the third quarter, which would be a 3.6% increase over last year," Steward said.Kansas has had the fourth largest monthly increase in gas prices during June.

Summer travel down because of the pandemic, AAA says

Hutchinson Fire Marshal Tony Arpin says the regulations for fireworks this year are the same as last year.

"They can sell and shoot fireworks from June 30 through July 4," Arpin said. "8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. is when they're allowed to sell and shoot. That's for the City of Hutchinson. South Hutchinson is the same and unincorporated areas of Reno County are also the same."

The weather is one of the big concerns for firefighters this year.

"It's been really windy," Arpin said. "I don't believe there's any rain in the forecast. The winds have picked up. It's hot. Everything's drying out so naturally, grass fires are always our main concern around this time of year."

Firefighters will be handling the initial education when it comes to fireworks usage.

"We'll be out taking care of fireworks complaints," Arpin said. "The fire department will be rolling around in the evenings, so if somebody has a complaint or something like that, they can give us a call and we can go by and check it out. If they're doing something that's not exactly right, we can inform them of the rules and help them make better decisions, I hope."

Arpin suggests that you buy your fireworks in the jurisdiction where you plan to shoot them, as aerial fireworks are prohibited in Hutchinson, but not in South Hutchinson, for example, and you don't want to inadvertently buy something that is illegal to shoot where you are planning to celebrate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Fire Marshal Tony Arpin says the regulations for fireworks this year are the same as last year."They can sell and shoot fireworks from June 30 through July 4," Arpin said. "8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. is when they're allowed to sell and shoot. That's for the City of Hutchinson. South Hutchinson is the same and unincorporated areas of Reno County are also the same."The weather is one of the big concerns for firefighters this year."It's been really windy," Arpin said. "I don't believe there's any rain in the forecast. The winds have picked up. It's hot. Everything's drying out so naturally, grass fires are always our main concern around this time of year."Firefighters will be handling the initial education when it comes to fireworks usage."We'll be out taking care of fireworks complaints," Arpin said. "The fire department will be rolling around in the evenings, so if somebody has a complaint or something like that, they can give us a call and we can go by and check it out. If they're doing something that's not exactly right, we can inform them of the rules and help them make better decisions, I hope."Arpin suggests that you buy your fireworks in the jurisdiction where you plan to shoot them, as aerial fireworks are prohibited in Hutchinson, but not in South Hutchinson, for example, and you don't want to inadvertently buy something that is illegal to shoot where you are planning to celebrate.

Fireworks sale, discharge today through July 4

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Heat Advisory from noon today to 8 p.m. tonight. Heat index values of 105 to 107 are expected. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur.

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. 

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593513402035.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a Heat Advisory from noon today to 8 p.m. tonight. Heat index values of 105 to 107 are expected. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur.Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911.

Heat Advisory in effect Tuesday


TOPEKA (AP) — 
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly is mandating that people wear masks in public spaces starting Friday to stop the spread of COVID-19.

The Democratic governor said her administration will issue specific guidance later this week and local officials will enforce the policy. 

Kansas health officials on Monday reported at least 14,443 confirmed coronavirus cases, an increase of 905 since Friday. Under the order, masks will be required in stores, restaurants and in any situation where social distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained, including outside. 

Kelly said evidence shows mask wearing is safe and necessary to avoid another shutdown.&nbsp;

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 </figure>
TOPEKA (AP) — 
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly is mandating that people wear masks in public spaces starting Friday to stop the spread of COVID-19.The Democratic governor said her administration will issue specific guidance later this week and local officials will enforce the policy. Kansas health officials on Monday reported at least 14,443 confirmed coronavirus cases, an increase of 905 since Friday. Under the order, masks will be required in stores, restaurants and in any situation where social distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained, including outside. Kelly said evidence shows mask wearing is safe and necessary to avoid another shutdown.&nbsp;

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