NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board meeting this week was canceled after the board could not come up with a quorum. 

The board, which is already down two members, was due to try
again to fill those two seats. Four residents had applied for the two vacancies
several months ago but were voted down at that time. The matter was to be brought up again
with the same candidates. 

Another matter for the board that will wait was a renewal of
Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson’s contract. 

Both agenda items have been politically charged and a large
group of patrons and teachers showed up at Monday’s meeting to address one or
both of those items. In the end no meeting was held. 

Johnson says the board can choose to have a special agenda session to
address the matters or simply wait until January’s meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board meeting this week was canceled after the board could not come up with a quorum. The board, which is already down two members, was due to try
again to fill those two seats. Four residents had applied for the two vacancies
several months ago but were voted down at that time. The matter was to be brought up again
with the same candidates. Another matter for the board that will wait was a renewal of
Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson’s contract. Both agenda items have been politically charged and a large
group of patrons and teachers showed up at Monday’s meeting to address one or
both of those items. In the end no meeting was held. Johnson says the board can choose to have a special agenda session to
address the matters or simply wait until January’s meeting.

USD 309 meeting canceled


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The decision to change the schedule coming back from the holidays for Hutchinson USD 308 involved a lot of input from the community.

"We did a parent survey," said USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks. "I think we had between 900 and 1000 responses. We did a staff survey. We also met with our principals numerous times. I did a Zoom with the elementary staff, a select few. Then, our newly established superintendent's COVID advisory committee met last week for a couple of hours and then after that meeting, where we had some really good discussion and we had some information shared from the medical and health professionals, we surveyed that group."

Under the proposal adopted Monday, students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade will return to class in the hybrid model on Jan. 11 instead of Jan. 4.

"One of the reasons for the delay is you take Christmas and you take the first of the year, potentially there could be transmission and exposure," Folks said. "We're backing off the start of school to help mitigate any kind of spread or clusters when we do come back. That's a major reason why the high school is going full remote two additional weeks."

The medical evidence thus far seems to suggest that older students are much more likely to transmit the virus in a similar manner to adults. Elementary students don't appear to have the same issue.

Hutchinson High School students will return to class remotely on Jan. 11 for two weeks before returning to the hybrid model on Jan. 25. The Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy will also return on Jan. 11 in the hybrid mode.

"The last time I looked at our totals, we'd had 162 positive cases in 308," Folks said. "When you figure in our staff and our students, we're probably just over 5000 people total."

Licensed staff, meanwhile, will get Jan. 4 and Jan. 5 off with the remainder of the week spent in workdays and professional development. 

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The decision to change the schedule coming back from the holidays for Hutchinson USD 308 involved a lot of input from the community."We did a parent survey," said USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks. "I think we had between 900 and 1000 responses. We did a staff survey. We also met with our principals numerous times. I did a Zoom with the elementary staff, a select few. Then, our newly established superintendent's COVID advisory committee met last week for a couple of hours and then after that meeting, where we had some really good discussion and we had some information shared from the medical and health professionals, we surveyed that group."Under the proposal adopted Monday, students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade will return to class in the hybrid model on Jan. 11 instead of Jan. 4."One of the reasons for the delay is you take Christmas and you take the first of the year, potentially there could be transmission and exposure," Folks said. "We're backing off the start of school to help mitigate any kind of spread or clusters when we do come back. That's a major reason why the high school is going full remote two additional weeks."The medical evidence thus far seems to suggest that older students are much more likely to transmit the virus in a similar manner to adults. Elementary students don't appear to have the same issue.Hutchinson High School students will return to class remotely on Jan. 11 for two weeks before returning to the hybrid model on Jan. 25. The Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy will also return on Jan. 11 in the hybrid mode."The last time I looked at our totals, we'd had 162 positive cases in 308," Folks said. "When you figure in our staff and our students, we're probably just over 5000 people total."Licensed staff, meanwhile, will get Jan. 4 and Jan. 5 off with the remainder of the week spent in workdays and professional development.

Folks: Decision to delay holiday return had a lot of input

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 720 as of Tuesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 80.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 36 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 78 active cases. Twenty-eight people within those clusters have died. There are 41 active clusters in the county.

Out of 5,971 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 694 cases in the community at large. 5,171 people have recovered thus far.

Twenty-three Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred sixty-three total have been hospitalized. Eighty-six have been admitted to the ICU and 28 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 25.79%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.42%. 30.23% of the population has been tested.

An alternative testing provider is coming soon to Reno County, but if you have symptoms, please call your doctor to be tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 720 as of Tuesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 80.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 36 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 78 active cases. Twenty-eight people within those clusters have died. There are 41 active clusters in the county.Out of 5,971 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 694 cases in the community at large. 5,171 people have recovered thus far.Twenty-three Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred sixty-three total have been hospitalized. Eighty-six have been admitted to the ICU and 28 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 25.79%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.42%. 30.23% of the population has been tested.An alternative testing provider is coming soon to Reno County, but if you have symptoms, please call your doctor to be tested.

Case count at 720, with 694 in community as of Tuesday afternoon

KIOWA COUNTY—A Hutchinson man died in an accident just before 7 p.m. Tuesday in Kiowa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Chevy Astro van driven by 75-year-old Joaquin Vatierra-Serran of Hutchinson, was eastbound on U.S. 54 four miles west of Haviland when the van crossed the center line and&nbsp;collided head-on with a westbound 2017 Freightliner semi driven by 29-year-old Christian&nbsp;Gayles of Chicago, Illinois.

Vatierra-Serran was transported to&nbsp;Western Plains Hospital where he died. Gayles and a passenger in the semi were not injured. All three were properly restrained a the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1563361166533.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KIOWA COUNTY—A Hutchinson man died in an accident just before 7 p.m. Tuesday in Kiowa County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Chevy Astro van driven by 75-year-old Joaquin Vatierra-Serran of Hutchinson, was eastbound on U.S. 54 four miles west of Haviland when the van crossed the center line and&nbsp;collided head-on with a westbound 2017 Freightliner semi driven by 29-year-old Christian&nbsp;Gayles of Chicago, Illinois.Vatierra-Serran was transported to&nbsp;Western Plains Hospital where he died. Gayles and a passenger in the semi were not injured. All three were properly restrained a the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Hutchinson man dies after head-on semi crash

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 3 p.m. Tuesday in Sedgwick County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Buick Century driven by 41-year-old Travis Smith of Newton&nbsp; was northbound on Interstate 135 just north of 85th Street, when the Buick crossed into the median, traveled northbound in the southbound lanes and struck a 2011 Ford Flex driven by 16-year-old Emily Paulus of Hillsboro head-on.&nbsp;

Smith was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Sedgwick County Forensic Center. EMS transported Paulus and a passenger, 43-year-old Laura&nbsp;Paulus of Hillsboro to Wesley Medical Center. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608118815580.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the crash photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the crash photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 3 p.m. Tuesday in Sedgwick County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Buick Century driven by 41-year-old Travis Smith of Newton&nbsp; was northbound on Interstate 135 just north of 85th Street, when the Buick crossed into the median, traveled northbound in the southbound lanes and struck a 2011 Ford Flex driven by 16-year-old Emily Paulus of Hillsboro head-on.&nbsp;Smith was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Sedgwick County Forensic Center. EMS transported Paulus and a passenger, 43-year-old Laura&nbsp;Paulus of Hillsboro to Wesley Medical Center. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Newton man dies, 2 hospitalized after head-on crash

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education approved a later resumption of classes for students after the Christmas-New Year’s recess. Staff, as well, will get a slightly longer break. The changes are designed to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on students and staff.

Under the proposal adopted Monday, students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade will return to class in the hybrid model on Jan. 11 instead of Jan. 4. Hutchinson High School students will return to class remotely on Jan. 11 for two weeks before returning to the hybrid model on Jan. 25. The Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy will also return on Jan. 11 in the hybrid mode.

Under the hybrid model, students with names starting with A through L attend in-person classes on Mondays and Wednesdays while students with names starting with M through Z attend in-person classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All students in the hybrid model learn remotely on Fridays.

Licensed staff, meanwhile, will get Jan. 4 and Jan. 5 off with the remainder of the week spent in workdays and professional development. Classified staff will have a work schedule that is first week back as determined by their supervisors.

The approval came after input from a variety of sources, including a new Superintendent’s Committee. Superintendent Mike Folks has a new parent and staff community group to provide input on COVID-19 related issues as well as possible future activities in the district. Those additional issues may include the district’s budget and school configuration. The board also discussed a contract Monday with RSP &amp; Associates to help the district with long-term planning. RSP has previously worked with the district for internal boundaries of its elementary schools.

Included in the project will be an enrollment analysis, current elementary boundary analysis and facilities analysis. The Superintendent’s Committee will be one of the resources RSP will use for community input during the research. The board tabled the proposal to get more information from the company.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668902902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education approved a later resumption of classes for students after the Christmas-New Year’s recess. Staff, as well, will get a slightly longer break. The changes are designed to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on students and staff.Under the proposal adopted Monday, students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade will return to class in the hybrid model on Jan. 11 instead of Jan. 4. Hutchinson High School students will return to class remotely on Jan. 11 for two weeks before returning to the hybrid model on Jan. 25. The Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy will also return on Jan. 11 in the hybrid mode.Under the hybrid model, students with names starting with A through L attend in-person classes on Mondays and Wednesdays while students with names starting with M through Z attend in-person classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All students in the hybrid model learn remotely on Fridays.Licensed staff, meanwhile, will get Jan. 4 and Jan. 5 off with the remainder of the week spent in workdays and professional development. Classified staff will have a work schedule that is first week back as determined by their supervisors.The approval came after input from a variety of sources, including a new Superintendent’s Committee. Superintendent Mike Folks has a new parent and staff community group to provide input on COVID-19 related issues as well as possible future activities in the district. Those additional issues may include the district’s budget and school configuration. The board also discussed a contract Monday with RSP &amp; Associates to help the district with long-term planning. RSP has previously worked with the district for internal boundaries of its elementary schools.Included in the project will be an enrollment analysis, current elementary boundary analysis and facilities analysis. The Superintendent’s Committee will be one of the resources RSP will use for community input during the research. The board tabled the proposal to get more information from the company.

USD 308 Board approves longer Christmas break

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell could not comment if the city would entertain some type of pandemic restrictions if the county were to remove the governor’s health order.

Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst asked for consensus to remove the mask mandate from the health order during today's meeting. The matter could come up for action next Tuesday. Interim commissioner Mark Steffen said he wants to see the health order removed all together. It was part of an hour-long barrage of questions and comments regarding the state and local action in dealing with the pandemic.

The council discussed the matter several weeks ago when it looked like the county would not take action put in place by the governor. While the discussion took place there was never a consensus on how to deal with the matter. It became a moot point when the county did follow the state's health order.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell could not comment if the city would entertain some type of pandemic restrictions if the county were to remove the governor’s health order.Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst asked for consensus to remove the mask mandate from the health order during today's meeting. The matter could come up for action next Tuesday. Interim commissioner Mark Steffen said he wants to see the health order removed all together. It was part of an hour-long barrage of questions and comments regarding the state and local action in dealing with the pandemic.The council discussed the matter several weeks ago when it looked like the county would not take action put in place by the governor. While the discussion took place there was never a consensus on how to deal with the matter. It became a moot point when the county did follow the state's health order.&nbsp;

City can't comment on potential county action

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department says it will extend the health order for the county when it expires on Friday.

This comes after Reno County commissioners entertained the idea of removing some or all of the health order during next Tuesday’s meeting.

“What we’re going to do is go ahead and we’re going to put the health order through,” Karen Hammersmith with the Health Department said. “It’s our responsibility to really let people know what’s going on in the community.”

Hammersmith said that if commissioners want to take the proposed action, that’s on them.

“If the elected officials want to take that upon themselves, then that’s their right to do that.”

Hammersmith was hit with a barrage of questions and accusations, mostly by interim county commissioner Mark Steffen, about accuracy of testing and how hospitals and the Health Department are dealing with the pandemic.

“Our job as public health is to let them know what’s going on and to give advice,” Hammersmith said. “We’re getting it from people working on the front lines. This isn’t just what I as the health officer believes, this is working with a collaboration of physicians and looking at what’s going on, on the front lines.”&nbsp;

Hammersmith was asked by county commissioners regarding a recent article that said the way labs test for COVID was leading to a 20% false positive rate. Hammersmith addressed that Tuesday.

“We’ve heard the argument all along,” Hammersmith said, stating that comparing lab test for COVID would be comparing apples to oranges.

Hammersmith also refuted claims that no more people are dying of COVID than any other ailment. She provided the numbers from the hospital to the county commission:

“In October we had 21 deaths. The highest that had been in October in the last five years were nine,” Hammersmith said. “In November we had 32 deaths. The highest in November before was seven. And I guarantee you that December is going to be right there with November.”

Hammersmith said working with hospital staff and seeing what's happening on the front lines is very taxing on staff.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department says it will extend the health order for the county when it expires on Friday.This comes after Reno County commissioners entertained the idea of removing some or all of the health order during next Tuesday’s meeting.“What we’re going to do is go ahead and we’re going to put the health order through,” Karen Hammersmith with the Health Department said. “It’s our responsibility to really let people know what’s going on in the community.”Hammersmith said that if commissioners want to take the proposed action, that’s on them.“If the elected officials want to take that upon themselves, then that’s their right to do that.”Hammersmith was hit with a barrage of questions and accusations, mostly by interim county commissioner Mark Steffen, about accuracy of testing and how hospitals and the Health Department are dealing with the pandemic.“Our job as public health is to let them know what’s going on and to give advice,” Hammersmith said. “We’re getting it from people working on the front lines. This isn’t just what I as the health officer believes, this is working with a collaboration of physicians and looking at what’s going on, on the front lines.”&nbsp;Hammersmith was asked by county commissioners regarding a recent article that said the way labs test for COVID was leading to a 20% false positive rate. Hammersmith addressed that Tuesday.“We’ve heard the argument all along,” Hammersmith said, stating that comparing lab test for COVID would be comparing apples to oranges.Hammersmith also refuted claims that no more people are dying of COVID than any other ailment. She provided the numbers from the hospital to the county commission:“In October we had 21 deaths. The highest that had been in October in the last five years were nine,” Hammersmith said. “In November we had 32 deaths. The highest in November before was seven. And I guarantee you that December is going to be right there with November.”Hammersmith said working with hospital staff and seeing what's happening on the front lines is very taxing on staff.

Health Department says it will extend health order this week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Students in 5th through 8th grade are invited to attend this year's virtual Youth Empowerment Summit.&nbsp;

Every year on Martin Luther King Day, Rise Up Reno holds a summit just for 5th through 8th grade students all over the state. This is a day to empower students to become future leaders, make great choices and have fun.&nbsp;

This year instead of a full-day event, organizers will host a shorter Zoom session that will allow attendance of more students. The speaker for this year will be&nbsp; Dustin Galyon, who will deliver a keynote to inspire leadership and encourage leadership-making skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The registration deadline is Jan. 11. You can register or get more information at <a href="https://www.riseupreno.org/Forms/">riseupreno.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608068028525.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Students in 5th through 8th grade are invited to attend this year's virtual Youth Empowerment Summit.&nbsp;Every year on Martin Luther King Day, Rise Up Reno holds a summit just for 5th through 8th grade students all over the state. This is a day to empower students to become future leaders, make great choices and have fun.&nbsp;This year instead of a full-day event, organizers will host a shorter Zoom session that will allow attendance of more students. The speaker for this year will be&nbsp; Dustin Galyon, who will deliver a keynote to inspire leadership and encourage leadership-making skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;The registration deadline is Jan. 11. You can register or get more information at <a href="https://www.riseupreno.org/Forms/">riseupreno.org</a>.

Rise Up Reno Youth Summit approaching

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The origin and cause of the fire at 628 North Monroe on Monday night was a space heater too close to combustibles. The heater caught a blanket on fire. The fire spread to the rest of the structure.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson Fire Department reminds the public that space heaters should be a minimum of three feet away from anything combustible. Space heaters should also be plugged directly into a wall outlet and not into an extension cord. Space heaters should never be left on when residents are sleeping. Also, be sure to test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to be sure they are working properly.&nbsp;

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— For the second time in as many nights, Hutchinson Fire Crews had to respond to a structure fire. The call came out just after 7 p.m. in the 600 block of North Monroe.

According to Fire Chief Steve Beer, the blaze started in the basement of the two story structure that is divided into four apartments. The blaze made its way from the basement all the way to the attic. There were five individuals and several pets in the complex at the time of the fire.&nbsp;

No injuries were reported to the residents or fire fighters.

The fire did extensive damage to most of the structure. The cause of the blaze has not been determined at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608003476217.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE&nbsp; 1:35 p.m. December 15, 2020HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The origin and cause of the fire at 628 North Monroe on Monday night was a space heater too close to combustibles. The heater caught a blanket on fire. The fire spread to the rest of the structure.&nbsp;The Hutchinson Fire Department reminds the public that space heaters should be a minimum of three feet away from anything combustible. Space heaters should also be plugged directly into a wall outlet and not into an extension cord. Space heaters should never be left on when residents are sleeping. Also, be sure to test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to be sure they are working properly.&nbsp;The original story is below:HUTCHINSON, Kan.— For the second time in as many nights, Hutchinson Fire Crews had to respond to a structure fire. The call came out just after 7 p.m. in the 600 block of North Monroe.According to Fire Chief Steve Beer, the blaze started in the basement of the two story structure that is divided into four apartments. The blaze made its way from the basement all the way to the attic. There were five individuals and several pets in the complex at the time of the fire.&nbsp;No injuries were reported to the residents or fire fighters.The fire did extensive damage to most of the structure. The cause of the blaze has not been determined at this time.

UPDATE: Space heater cause of Monday night apartment fire

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. — Hospital staff, Emergency Management and the Health Department were all
under fire from County Commissioners and the public regarding action being
taken to curb the pandemic.

It came
during Tuesday's County Commission meeting. The comments from the Board and
during public comment were in direct conflict with the Governor’s mask mandate and
the health order that is currently in place. County Commissioner Dr. Mark Steffen continuously
stated that the numbers and figures being brought before them were not accurate
and not factual. It is the same argument he has been giving before the board
since he took office in the interim.

Steffen and
County Commissioner Ron Hirst questioned the accuracy of COVID tests and wanted
to know why the Health Department didn’t have information on how tests were
being conducted in labs. The Board members stated that about 20% of the tests
given turn out to be false positives, which is hurting the community and the economy.

Then it was
the public's turn to respond with accusations that what the health department,
the state and even hospitals are doing isn’t working. The requested that the
health order from the state and county be lifted and let the public make their
own decisions on how to treat the pandemic.

Commissioner
Hirst asked for consensus to draw up an agenda item for next week's meeting that
would lift the mask mandate from the Governor’s orders. Another added agenda
item from Steffen to do away with the health order altogether was dropped
from the agenda.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606245605566.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hospital staff, Emergency Management and the Health Department were all
under fire from County Commissioners and the public regarding action being
taken to curb the pandemic.It came
during Tuesday's County Commission meeting. The comments from the Board and
during public comment were in direct conflict with the Governor’s mask mandate and
the health order that is currently in place. County Commissioner Dr. Mark Steffen continuously
stated that the numbers and figures being brought before them were not accurate
and not factual. It is the same argument he has been giving before the board
since he took office in the interim.Steffen and
County Commissioner Ron Hirst questioned the accuracy of COVID tests and wanted
to know why the Health Department didn’t have information on how tests were
being conducted in labs. The Board members stated that about 20% of the tests
given turn out to be false positives, which is hurting the community and the economy.Then it was
the public's turn to respond with accusations that what the health department,
the state and even hospitals are doing isn’t working. The requested that the
health order from the state and county be lifted and let the public make their
own decisions on how to treat the pandemic.Commissioner
Hirst asked for consensus to draw up an agenda item for next week's meeting that
would lift the mask mandate from the Governor’s orders. Another added agenda
item from Steffen to do away with the health order altogether was dropped
from the agenda.

Board of Reno County Commissioners may reconsider current health order 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Those who need lodging related to either quarantine or isolation for COVID-19 exposure can use a free shelter in Hutchinson. It's also available for those who would potentially expose themselves at work.

"If you're working in a congregate setting, or you're in a high-risk job, working for the hospital, working for the jail, working for the prison, or a first responder, you can stay there and still go to work every day," said Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar. "The idea behind that is, in case you do come down with something, you have not brought that home to your family."

Those who need the shelter should call the Health Department at 1-844-834-3658, as the location is not being released publicly at this time.

"If someone you know is living with their 82-year-old grandmother, or they have a house full of people and they can't socially distance inside their house, or they don't feel like they can keep the other individuals living in the house safe, they can come to the shelter," Weishaar said.

Weishaar said precautions are being taken to be sure that if members of the public are also staying there, that those there for the shelter don't interact.

"All these rooms open to the outside," Weishaar said. "To get accepted in the facility, we have to call and make advance arrangements and they'll have a reception set up for you, so you can go directly to your room to prevent contact with any other individuals that may be staying at that site."

The state funded shelter provides meals as well for those who are staying there.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Those who need lodging related to either quarantine or isolation for COVID-19 exposure can use a free shelter in Hutchinson. It's also available for those who would potentially expose themselves at work."If you're working in a congregate setting, or you're in a high-risk job, working for the hospital, working for the jail, working for the prison, or a first responder, you can stay there and still go to work every day," said Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar. "The idea behind that is, in case you do come down with something, you have not brought that home to your family."Those who need the shelter should call the Health Department at 1-844-834-3658, as the location is not being released publicly at this time."If someone you know is living with their 82-year-old grandmother, or they have a house full of people and they can't socially distance inside their house, or they don't feel like they can keep the other individuals living in the house safe, they can come to the shelter," Weishaar said.Weishaar said precautions are being taken to be sure that if members of the public are also staying there, that those there for the shelter don't interact."All these rooms open to the outside," Weishaar said. "To get accepted in the facility, we have to call and make advance arrangements and they'll have a reception set up for you, so you can go directly to your room to prevent contact with any other individuals that may be staying at that site."The state funded shelter provides meals as well for those who are staying there.

Shelter available for those who need it due to COVID-19


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The latest improvements to Carey Park Golf Course were approved on a 4-1 vote of the Hutchinson City Council Tuesday morning, over the questions and subsequent negative vote of council member Sara Bagwell.

"We are on track through the end of November, to be at a 75% cost recovery rate," said Justin Combs, Director of Parks and Facilities. "That is up 10% from 2017. That has been a goal of ours every year, to try to increase our revenue."

This means that in 2020, the golf course is projected to lose between $200,000 and $250,000. Bagwell wanted to know how much more expensive doing the golf course project would make the city's bond obligations, but a clear answer on that wasn't immediately available, because Angela Richard, Director of Finance noted that it depends on what the projects are bonded with and what rates the city can get on the bonds.

"We can't subsidize everything," Bagwell said. "I mean, if we lose $250,000 a year on the golf course, $700,000 a year on the zoo and all of these other things, you know, these are future payments from future generations that have to pay for these things, these are future payments from future generations that have to pay for these things, so I just need to make sure that we're thinking about those return on investments, since it's future generations that are paying for it."

City Manager Jeff Cantrell noted that the recovery rate for the golf course actually isn't that bad.

"A business case can't really be made in this instance," Cantrell said. "I do recall from prior course work, and this is going to date me a little bit, it does go back about 15 years at least, that a 40 to 45% cost recovery on golf courses, public courses, is fairly typical in the region. That's not a great number. Nobody would enter into that kind of a business model with the interest of making money, but, much like a public swimming pool or other public amenity, it's entered into with the mindset that it would have to be subsidized."

The latest portion of the project includes filling in the pond at the 6th hole, adding several tee boxes and replacing the greens on holes 7 and 8 which have been problem areas for the course for several years. The type of grass in the fairways will also be changed on several of the holes to make it similar to the improvements already in place. One of the bigger improvements will be a new practice area next to the driving range. The new area will include practice for sand bunker shots and a pitching and putting green area. The low bid for the work is from Houska Inc. and totals $364,118.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608050605663.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The latest improvements to Carey Park Golf Course were approved on a 4-1 vote of the Hutchinson City Council Tuesday morning, over the questions and subsequent negative vote of council member Sara Bagwell."We are on track through the end of November, to be at a 75% cost recovery rate," said Justin Combs, Director of Parks and Facilities. "That is up 10% from 2017. That has been a goal of ours every year, to try to increase our revenue."This means that in 2020, the golf course is projected to lose between $200,000 and $250,000. Bagwell wanted to know how much more expensive doing the golf course project would make the city's bond obligations, but a clear answer on that wasn't immediately available, because Angela Richard, Director of Finance noted that it depends on what the projects are bonded with and what rates the city can get on the bonds."We can't subsidize everything," Bagwell said. "I mean, if we lose $250,000 a year on the golf course, $700,000 a year on the zoo and all of these other things, you know, these are future payments from future generations that have to pay for these things, these are future payments from future generations that have to pay for these things, so I just need to make sure that we're thinking about those return on investments, since it's future generations that are paying for it."City Manager Jeff Cantrell noted that the recovery rate for the golf course actually isn't that bad."A business case can't really be made in this instance," Cantrell said. "I do recall from prior course work, and this is going to date me a little bit, it does go back about 15 years at least, that a 40 to 45% cost recovery on golf courses, public courses, is fairly typical in the region. That's not a great number. Nobody would enter into that kind of a business model with the interest of making money, but, much like a public swimming pool or other public amenity, it's entered into with the mindset that it would have to be subsidized."The latest portion of the project includes filling in the pond at the 6th hole, adding several tee boxes and replacing the greens on holes 7 and 8 which have been problem areas for the course for several years. The type of grass in the fairways will also be changed on several of the holes to make it similar to the improvements already in place. One of the bigger improvements will be a new practice area next to the driving range. The new area will include practice for sand bunker shots and a pitching and putting green area. The low bid for the work is from Houska Inc. and totals $364,118.

Golf course improvements approved Tuesday by Hutchinson City Council

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 729 as of Monday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 76. The overall count of cases was over 1000 just a week ago.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 36 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 85 active cases. Twenty-eight people within those clusters have died. There are 41 active clusters in the county.

Out of 5,926 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 702 cases in the community at large. 5,121 people have recovered thus far.

Thirty-nine Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred sixty-one total have been hospitalized. Eighty-four have been admitted to the ICU and 27 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 25.79%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.25%. 30.17% of the population has been tested.

The next community testing date is Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dairy Tie Barn on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 729 as of Monday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 76. The overall count of cases was over 1000 just a week ago.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 36 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 85 active cases. Twenty-eight people within those clusters have died. There are 41 active clusters in the county.Out of 5,926 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 702 cases in the community at large. 5,121 people have recovered thus far.Thirty-nine Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred sixty-one total have been hospitalized. Eighty-four have been admitted to the ICU and 27 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 25.79%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.25%. 30.17% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dairy Tie Barn on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Case count at 729, with 702 in community as of Monday afternoon

CHICAGO — Wes Hoyt, chief operating officer for Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS), has been appointed to the Council of Regents, the legislative body of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). The Council of Regents serves as the vital link between ACHE and members by approving governance and membership regulations as well as promoting the organization’s programs, services and activities within their respective areas.

Hoyt is board certified in healthcare management as an ACHE Fellow since 2005 and has been a member of the organization since 2001. In 2019, Hoyt was recipient of the ACHE Senior Rural Executive Regent’s Award. He will assume office on March 20, 2021, before ACHE’s 64th Congress on Healthcare Leadership. As a Regent, he will represent ACHE’s more than 450 members throughout Kansas.

Hoyt has served as the chief operating officer at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System since 2016. Before his current position, he was an Army Medical Service Corps Officer, serving in assignments worldwide culminating with service in the U.S. Army Africa, in Vicenza, Italy. Throughout his career, he held numerous leadership roles, including assignments with Army combat support hospitals in Iraq.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607981286774.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO — Wes Hoyt, chief operating officer for Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS), has been appointed to the Council of Regents, the legislative body of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). The Council of Regents serves as the vital link between ACHE and members by approving governance and membership regulations as well as promoting the organization’s programs, services and activities within their respective areas.Hoyt is board certified in healthcare management as an ACHE Fellow since 2005 and has been a member of the organization since 2001. In 2019, Hoyt was recipient of the ACHE Senior Rural Executive Regent’s Award. He will assume office on March 20, 2021, before ACHE’s 64th Congress on Healthcare Leadership. As a Regent, he will represent ACHE’s more than 450 members throughout Kansas.Hoyt has served as the chief operating officer at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System since 2016. Before his current position, he was an Army Medical Service Corps Officer, serving in assignments worldwide culminating with service in the U.S. Army Africa, in Vicenza, Italy. Throughout his career, he held numerous leadership roles, including assignments with Army combat support hospitals in Iraq.

Hoyt named to ACHE Council of Regents

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Refuse rates will increase by 2% at the start of the year. Under the current contract with Stutzman’s Refuse, residential trash service will increase by $0.19 per month to $9.69. The contract is part of Tuesday’s Hutchinson City Council meeting.

Commercial rates will increase by $0.20. The charge for additional recycling carts will stay the same at $4. If a resident misses their pick-up day, they can request their trash be picked up the following day for a $15 charge.

Also Tuesday, the council will seek approval on a contract from Ward Davis Builders to rebuild the retaining wall along Cow Creek adjacent to SW Bricktown Park. The wall has shown signs of failing. The work will include reconstructing the head wall and retaining walls. The cost of the project is $87,397.

Tuesday's meeting of the Hutchinson City Council begins at 9 a.m. and will be shown on the city’s YouTube channel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598971851425.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Refuse rates will increase by 2% at the start of the year. Under the current contract with Stutzman’s Refuse, residential trash service will increase by $0.19 per month to $9.69. The contract is part of Tuesday’s Hutchinson City Council meeting.Commercial rates will increase by $0.20. The charge for additional recycling carts will stay the same at $4. If a resident misses their pick-up day, they can request their trash be picked up the following day for a $15 charge.Also Tuesday, the council will seek approval on a contract from Ward Davis Builders to rebuild the retaining wall along Cow Creek adjacent to SW Bricktown Park. The wall has shown signs of failing. The work will include reconstructing the head wall and retaining walls. The cost of the project is $87,397.Tuesday's meeting of the Hutchinson City Council begins at 9 a.m. and will be shown on the city’s YouTube channel.

Council to take action on Cow Creek improvements and refuse rates

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the second consecutive year, the CrossPoint Church in Hutchinson provided a brand new pair of shoes to each student at Faris Elementary School.

“Even in better economic times, Faris Elementary has one of the highest number of students who qualify for free lunch assistance,” Shaen Marks, pastor of CrossPoint Hutchinson, said. “Shoes are an essential part of a kid’s daily life and self-esteem. Shoes are also one of the most visible signs of hardship and need. Childhood should be a wonderful, carefree time, but the simple lack of a good pair of shoes can leave a child open to bullying and ridicule. No kid wants shoes held together with duct tape or rubber bands.”

CrossPoint Church is stepping up with shoes for every student to unwrap at school and take home.

“It’s really magical to see the kids’ faces when they unwrap these shoes, getting shoes they really wanted and shoes that fit,” Marks said. “For so many kids who wear hand-me-downs, this pair of shoes will be their first pair of shoes that is their very own.”

This is one of many ways that CrossPoint Church has been helping Faris Elementary staff and students meet their needs. Over the last two years, the church has provided breakfasts, lunches, gift cards for teachers, and prizes for staff as they come back to school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607977422374.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the second consecutive year, the CrossPoint Church in Hutchinson provided a brand new pair of shoes to each student at Faris Elementary School.“Even in better economic times, Faris Elementary has one of the highest number of students who qualify for free lunch assistance,” Shaen Marks, pastor of CrossPoint Hutchinson, said. “Shoes are an essential part of a kid’s daily life and self-esteem. Shoes are also one of the most visible signs of hardship and need. Childhood should be a wonderful, carefree time, but the simple lack of a good pair of shoes can leave a child open to bullying and ridicule. No kid wants shoes held together with duct tape or rubber bands.”CrossPoint Church is stepping up with shoes for every student to unwrap at school and take home.“It’s really magical to see the kids’ faces when they unwrap these shoes, getting shoes they really wanted and shoes that fit,” Marks said. “For so many kids who wear hand-me-downs, this pair of shoes will be their first pair of shoes that is their very own.”This is one of many ways that CrossPoint Church has been helping Faris Elementary staff and students meet their needs. Over the last two years, the church has provided breakfasts, lunches, gift cards for teachers, and prizes for staff as they come back to school.

CrossPoint delivers shoes to Faris Elementary

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Bell ringing on Saturday for the Salvation Army was a success.

"For Saturday, for the overall totals, we did $4134, which was a nice, encouraging boost to our overall goal. If you see our signs on the kettle stands, we're on day 3 of the 12 days of ringing. We still need $22,108 to reach our kettle goal.

As for the competition between Eagle Radio and the Kiwanis club, it's all in how you look at it.

"The Toy Depot, they raised $539.22," James said. "The radio station, over at the Sleep Shoppe, they raised 683.43. I would add that the Kiwanis, at the Toy Depot, they actually had more cash in their bucket, while the radio station had more checks."

The need is still great, as the Salvation Army is actively helping the community this week with Christmas food boxes Monday and Tuesday.

"We will be doing our distribution for Christmas baskets from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.," James said. "That's by appointment and so we encourage individuals to follow those appointments. This morning we had cars wrapped around the block. Just for safety, we ask that people would follow those appointment times and have a little more grace during this season."

The deadline to sign up for Christmas baskets was December 2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564176522240.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Bell ringing on Saturday for the Salvation Army was a success."For Saturday, for the overall totals, we did $4134, which was a nice, encouraging boost to our overall goal. If you see our signs on the kettle stands, we're on day 3 of the 12 days of ringing. We still need $22,108 to reach our kettle goal.As for the competition between Eagle Radio and the Kiwanis club, it's all in how you look at it."The Toy Depot, they raised $539.22," James said. "The radio station, over at the Sleep Shoppe, they raised 683.43. I would add that the Kiwanis, at the Toy Depot, they actually had more cash in their bucket, while the radio station had more checks."The need is still great, as the Salvation Army is actively helping the community this week with Christmas food boxes Monday and Tuesday."We will be doing our distribution for Christmas baskets from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.," James said. "That's by appointment and so we encourage individuals to follow those appointments. This morning we had cars wrapped around the block. Just for safety, we ask that people would follow those appointment times and have a little more grace during this season."The deadline to sign up for Christmas baskets was December 2.

Salvation Army: Bell ringing big on Saturday, please be patient with food baskets

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Superintendent Dawn Johnson, Ed.D says they're coming down the stretch well toward Christmas break in the district.

"Everyone has been adjusting very well," Johnson said. "I think we're really going to do some push this week with high school students to be able to bring them in, in some small cohorts, to work on semester finals and get some one on one time with the teachers. They have been doing that most of the time in the afternoons, anyway, although the high school is remote in the morning, students are able to come in in the afternoons and work with teachers. I think we'll see a lot more of that going on this week as we head into the break."

Elementary students have also, for the most part, been able to remain in person, with the exception of a couple of weeks when South Hutchinson elementary was not able to find enough substitutes. Johnson's contract renewal is also on the agenda for tonight's USD 309 school board meeting.

"We'll see how things go," Johnson said. "Tonight might be a little bit more about power and politics than it is about me," Johnson said. "I was visited by a couple board members who are hoping that I could convince some other board members to swing votes their way, or they weren't going to vote for my contract. You never know how those things go. It remains to be seen."

The meeting of the USD 309 school board is Monday night at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943325915.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Superintendent Dawn Johnson, Ed.D says they're coming down the stretch well toward Christmas break in the district."Everyone has been adjusting very well," Johnson said. "I think we're really going to do some push this week with high school students to be able to bring them in, in some small cohorts, to work on semester finals and get some one on one time with the teachers. They have been doing that most of the time in the afternoons, anyway, although the high school is remote in the morning, students are able to come in in the afternoons and work with teachers. I think we'll see a lot more of that going on this week as we head into the break."Elementary students have also, for the most part, been able to remain in person, with the exception of a couple of weeks when South Hutchinson elementary was not able to find enough substitutes. Johnson's contract renewal is also on the agenda for tonight's USD 309 school board meeting."We'll see how things go," Johnson said. "Tonight might be a little bit more about power and politics than it is about me," Johnson said. "I was visited by a couple board members who are hoping that I could convince some other board members to swing votes their way, or they weren't going to vote for my contract. You never know how those things go. It remains to be seen."The meeting of the USD 309 school board is Monday night at 7 p.m.

Johnson says her renewal 'remains to be seen', high school headed down final stretch

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department was privileged and honored recently to
provide a police escort to a war hero. 

Officers of
the HPD escorted Military Working Dog, Captain Mystic, to her last resting
place. Captain Mystic served four years in the United Army, trained in
helicopter operations, EOD, and bite training. Captain Mystic was deployed to
Iraq, where she received the Bronze Star for her heroic work. Captain Mystic
retired from the military after her handler was killed.

Captain
Mystic retired to Hutchinson where she adopted a family and worked as a service
dog for Eric Casey. Mystic took on a new name of Corporal Casey, as she could
not out rank her partner in life, Eric. Corporal Casey worked with Eric for
over ten years and due to declined health had to be put to rest. 

Corporal
Casey has been posthumously promoted to the rank of Major by the United States
Army.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607961378280.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department was privileged and honored recently to
provide a police escort to a war hero. Officers of
the HPD escorted Military Working Dog, Captain Mystic, to her last resting
place. Captain Mystic served four years in the United Army, trained in
helicopter operations, EOD, and bite training. Captain Mystic was deployed to
Iraq, where she received the Bronze Star for her heroic work. Captain Mystic
retired from the military after her handler was killed.Captain
Mystic retired to Hutchinson where she adopted a family and worked as a service
dog for Eric Casey. Mystic took on a new name of Corporal Casey, as she could
not out rank her partner in life, Eric. Corporal Casey worked with Eric for
over ten years and due to declined health had to be put to rest. Corporal
Casey has been posthumously promoted to the rank of Major by the United States
Army.

HPD pays honor to military working dog

HAVEN, Kan.
— The Haven USD 312 School Board will take action on some major capital improvements
during tonight’s regular meeting.

The district
has been trying to make improvements to the high school auditorium for more
than a year. Efforts to secure bids last year were unsuccessful. Tonight, they
hope to approve the work which will include major renovations to seats,
lighting, sound system and the interior walls. The renovation has an estimated
price tag of $300,000.

Bringing
back the wrestling program is back on the agenda again tonight, as well. A group of parents approached
the district several months back asking that wrestling be brought back into the
sports program. A update on where the teams could practice will be on the
agenda this evening. 

Also
tonight, the Board will go over some purchases of new Chromebooks and also
discuss winter sports spectator expectations after the KSHSAA lifted the total ban
on fans last week.

Tonight’s meeting
begins at 6 p.m. at the Haven High School library.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586361672308.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan.
— The Haven USD 312 School Board will take action on some major capital improvements
during tonight’s regular meeting.The district
has been trying to make improvements to the high school auditorium for more
than a year. Efforts to secure bids last year were unsuccessful. Tonight, they
hope to approve the work which will include major renovations to seats,
lighting, sound system and the interior walls. The renovation has an estimated
price tag of $300,000.Bringing
back the wrestling program is back on the agenda again tonight, as well. A group of parents approached
the district several months back asking that wrestling be brought back into the
sports program. A update on where the teams could practice will be on the
agenda this evening. Also
tonight, the Board will go over some purchases of new Chromebooks and also
discuss winter sports spectator expectations after the KSHSAA lifted the total ban
on fans last week.Tonight’s meeting
begins at 6 p.m. at the Haven High School library.

Haven School Board to take action on auditorium bids

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will
try to fill two vacant seats during tonight’s agenda session. The Board has
been short two seats for several months. Several candidates filed for the
positions but failed to gain approval from the board.

Mikeal Starns, R.J. Wenzel and Larry Meadows in the South
Hutchinson district had applied for those positions at that time. All three are
on the list again to go before the board this evening. 

Mike Sullivan was on the list to represent Reno Valley at
that time and was also voted down. He too is back before the board again this
evening.

&nbsp;If the board votes
against the four again the only other possible option would be to wait until
the next school board election in 2021 to fill the spots.

Tonight’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Reno Valley
Middle School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="USD 309 Sign" />
 <figcaption>USD 309 Sign</figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will
try to fill two vacant seats during tonight’s agenda session. The Board has
been short two seats for several months. Several candidates filed for the
positions but failed to gain approval from the board.Mikeal Starns, R.J. Wenzel and Larry Meadows in the South
Hutchinson district had applied for those positions at that time. All three are
on the list again to go before the board this evening. Mike Sullivan was on the list to represent Reno Valley at
that time and was also voted down. He too is back before the board again this
evening.&nbsp;If the board votes
against the four again the only other possible option would be to wait until
the next school board election in 2021 to fill the spots.Tonight’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Reno Valley
Middle School.

309 Board to try again to fill vacant positions 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Motorists who use US 50 will have to deal
with a major road project next year. 

APAC Shears of Hutchinson will be doing a complete mill and
overlay of US-50 from the Harvey and Reno County line west to the highway divide near
Yoder Road. &nbsp;The nine-mile stretch will
be down to one lane during construction with traffic delays expected.

The total cost of the project is nearly $2.3 million. The
project was announced by KDOT during their monthly contract announcements last week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592505431902.png" alt="road construction" />
 <figcaption>road construction</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Motorists who use US 50 will have to deal
with a major road project next year. APAC Shears of Hutchinson will be doing a complete mill and
overlay of US-50 from the Harvey and Reno County line west to the highway divide near
Yoder Road. &nbsp;The nine-mile stretch will
be down to one lane during construction with traffic delays expected.The total cost of the project is nearly $2.3 million. The
project was announced by KDOT during their monthly contract announcements last week.

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