HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The StartUp Hutch business incubator announced the networking event Entrepreneurship Connections.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The agency says the event will provide entrepreneurs the chance to mingle with other startup owners and entrepreneurs in the community. Entrepreneurship Connections will take place on Monday, July 6, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Sandhills Brewing in Hutchinson.&nbsp;

The event is free to attend and will have activities to encourage discussion and interaction among entrepreneurs. It will also include a raffle and a free drink ticket for all attendees.&nbsp;

For more information about the event, visit the StartUp Hutch <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/625117385026796">Facebook page</a>. To register for the event, visit the <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/entrepreneurship-connections-tickets-110132088040">Eventbrite page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593029653572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The StartUp Hutch business incubator announced the networking event Entrepreneurship Connections.&nbsp;&nbsp;The agency says the event will provide entrepreneurs the chance to mingle with other startup owners and entrepreneurs in the community. Entrepreneurship Connections will take place on Monday, July 6, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Sandhills Brewing in Hutchinson.&nbsp;The event is free to attend and will have activities to encourage discussion and interaction among entrepreneurs. It will also include a raffle and a free drink ticket for all attendees.&nbsp;For more information about the event, visit the StartUp Hutch <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/625117385026796">Facebook page</a>. To register for the event, visit the <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/entrepreneurship-connections-tickets-110132088040">Eventbrite page</a>.

StartUp Hutch to host get-together

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The first of two days of budget meetings is set for Thursday for the Reno County Commission. All of the department heads will be before the commission Thursday and Friday as the county tries to hammer out the 2021 numbers.

Commissioners will meet with County Administrator Randy Partington along with the sheriff’s department, the health department, information service, human and youth services, the department of aging and Rcat, and district court Thursday. The rest of the department heads will meet with commissioners on Friday.

The county is looking to cut as much as $2 million from the budget for next year as tax revenues are expected to be down because of the pandemic.

Thursday’s meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. and will run through the noon hour at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The first of two days of budget meetings is set for Thursday for the Reno County Commission. All of the department heads will be before the commission Thursday and Friday as the county tries to hammer out the 2021 numbers.Commissioners will meet with County Administrator Randy Partington along with the sheriff’s department, the health department, information service, human and youth services, the department of aging and Rcat, and district court Thursday. The rest of the department heads will meet with commissioners on Friday.The county is looking to cut as much as $2 million from the budget for next year as tax revenues are expected to be down because of the pandemic.Thursday’s meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. and will run through the noon hour at the Reno County Courthouse.

County budget sessions kick off Thursday

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

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

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

Recent obituaries

NEWTON,
Kan. —The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed four new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:

· A female in her 40s. She is hospitalized. This case remains under investigation.

· A female in her 40s. She is in home isolation. This case remains under investigation.

· A female in her 20s. She is in home isolation. She is a close contact in the family unit of a known active case.

· A male in his 20s. He had previously quarantined as a precaution, and is now isolating at home. He is a close contact in the family unit of a known active case.

One individual – the female in her 20s – is an employee of Kansas Christian Home in Newton. Her position does not have direct contact with residents or care staff of the long-term care facility. However, the Health Department will continue to work in conjunction with Kansas Christian Home to determine if additional testing of individuals is needed.

Testing in all cases was completed by private labs. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all contacts.

“We recognize there may be worry of community spread or a cluster of cases. Our current information does not lead us to that conclusion at this time, but we will continue to monitor,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “Multiple recent cases include known transmission through family households. We’ll emphasize again that the precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are not just for you, but for your loved ones, as well.”

Harvey County has had 28 COVID-19 cases to date, including 24 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 12 known active cases in Harvey County. Two individuals are hospitalized.

There have been 1,355 tests conducted in Harvey County.

As of Monday, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 12,465 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 154,770 completed tests in Kansas.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. —The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed four new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:· A female in her 40s. She is hospitalized. This case remains under investigation.· A female in her 40s. She is in home isolation. This case remains under investigation.· A female in her 20s. She is in home isolation. She is a close contact in the family unit of a known active case.· A male in his 20s. He had previously quarantined as a precaution, and is now isolating at home. He is a close contact in the family unit of a known active case.One individual – the female in her 20s – is an employee of Kansas Christian Home in Newton. Her position does not have direct contact with residents or care staff of the long-term care facility. However, the Health Department will continue to work in conjunction with Kansas Christian Home to determine if additional testing of individuals is needed.Testing in all cases was completed by private labs. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all contacts.“We recognize there may be worry of community spread or a cluster of cases. Our current information does not lead us to that conclusion at this time, but we will continue to monitor,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “Multiple recent cases include known transmission through family households. We’ll emphasize again that the precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are not just for you, but for your loved ones, as well.”Harvey County has had 28 COVID-19 cases to date, including 24 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 12 known active cases in Harvey County. Two individuals are hospitalized.There have been 1,355 tests conducted in Harvey County.As of Monday, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 12,465 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 154,770 completed tests in Kansas.

New cases in Harvey County include an employee of Kansas Christian Home

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After taking four months off due to the pandemic the Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce will begin hosting monthly gatherings again.

The usual summer lunch series will kick off again July 15 at 11:45 at the Crystal Ballroom at the Burt.

The luncheon is sponsored by Kansas Gas Service. Registration is $20 for members and $30 for non-members and flash passes can be used.

To register or for more information go to hutchchamber.com

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After taking four months off due to the pandemic the Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce will begin hosting monthly gatherings again.The usual summer lunch series will kick off again July 15 at 11:45 at the Crystal Ballroom at the Burt.The luncheon is sponsored by Kansas Gas Service. Registration is $20 for members and $30 for non-members and flash passes can be used.To register or for more information go to hutchchamber.com

Chamber to resume noon lunch events in July

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emanuel Lutheran Church announced that the next TEFAP commodity distribution will be on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Dillon Living Center.&nbsp;

This is a change from the "usual" day and time and future dates and times will be determined.&nbsp;

The program is for low-income people of all ages. Commodities are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no need to pre-register and you do not need to bring any paperwork, but you must fall within the income guidelines.&nbsp;&nbsp;Because of the pandemic, no one will be allowed in the building and you will not be allowed to pick up boxes for others.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program is a federal program that helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans by providing them with emergency food assistance at no cost.&nbsp; The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides 100% American-grown USDA Foods and administrative funds to states to operate TEFAP.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emanuel Lutheran Church announced that the next TEFAP commodity distribution will be on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Dillon Living Center.&nbsp;This is a change from the "usual" day and time and future dates and times will be determined.&nbsp;The program is for low-income people of all ages. Commodities are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no need to pre-register and you do not need to bring any paperwork, but you must fall within the income guidelines.&nbsp;&nbsp;Because of the pandemic, no one will be allowed in the building and you will not be allowed to pick up boxes for others.The Emergency Food Assistance Program is a federal program that helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans by providing them with emergency food assistance at no cost.&nbsp; The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides 100% American-grown USDA Foods and administrative funds to states to operate TEFAP.

TEFAP distribution is Saturday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Republican Kansas Senate candidate Dr. Mark Steffen opposes Medicaid expansion in Kansas for several reasons.

"The big kicker that came up in this last legislative session was the realization that it was going to funnel taxpayer money to Planned Parenthood and the taxpayers were going to be paying for abortion," Steffen said. "I sat in a Senate meeting with (State Senator Ed) Berger. We heard the expert define how that was going to happen and it was irrefutable. Berger had no questions for the gentleman. It's not pie in the sky that that's going to happen. It's happened in all the other states that have expanded. It would happen here in Kansas."

Even if it looked like the state could afford the program in previous years, it doesn't look like that now.

"It's very clear that we're going to have a budget shortfall," Steffen said. "Medicaid is a monster. The expansion is perceived as being oh, a great opportunity because so much of it is paid for by the federal government, but it eats budgets up alive on the state level. We certainly can't handle that right now."

It is not out of a lack of compassion that Steffen takes his stance.

"I'm a physician," Steffen said. "I've taken care of Medicaid patients for 30 years. I've taken care of people with no insurance for 30 years and I've done so happily. I understand my way around this issue better than most anybody. I've helped start and turn a surgery center into a full-service community hospital. When I talk about Medicaid, I know it from the inside out, not from the outside in. It's an Obamacare relic. It was never designed to do any more than put more people on socialized medicine."

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Republican Kansas Senate candidate Dr. Mark Steffen opposes Medicaid expansion in Kansas for several reasons."The big kicker that came up in this last legislative session was the realization that it was going to funnel taxpayer money to Planned Parenthood and the taxpayers were going to be paying for abortion," Steffen said. "I sat in a Senate meeting with (State Senator Ed) Berger. We heard the expert define how that was going to happen and it was irrefutable. Berger had no questions for the gentleman. It's not pie in the sky that that's going to happen. It's happened in all the other states that have expanded. It would happen here in Kansas."Even if it looked like the state could afford the program in previous years, it doesn't look like that now."It's very clear that we're going to have a budget shortfall," Steffen said. "Medicaid is a monster. The expansion is perceived as being oh, a great opportunity because so much of it is paid for by the federal government, but it eats budgets up alive on the state level. We certainly can't handle that right now."It is not out of a lack of compassion that Steffen takes his stance."I'm a physician," Steffen said. "I've taken care of Medicaid patients for 30 years. I've taken care of people with no insurance for 30 years and I've done so happily. I understand my way around this issue better than most anybody. I've helped start and turn a surgery center into a full-service community hospital. When I talk about Medicaid, I know it from the inside out, not from the outside in. It's an Obamacare relic. It was never designed to do any more than put more people on socialized medicine."The Republican primary is August 4.

Dr. Mark Steffen, running for State Senate, explains Medicaid Expansion opposition


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The state of Kansas is still seeking responses to the 2020 Census, as is Hutchinson's Complete Count Committee.

"Response rates have certainly dropped a little bit," said Ryan Hvitlok with the City of Hutchinson. "We're now about two and a half months past census day. We're doing in Kansas, better than nationally. We're at about a 65.4% response rate. Reno County is doing better than the state at 66.8% and the City of Hutchinson is doing a little bit better than the state of Kansas at 65.7%. We're getting close to those 2010 numbers."

This week is the Call for the Count in Kansas. It's an effort to get the one-third of people in the state who haven't responded to take the time.

"We need to get those numbers as close to 2010 or possibly even exceed 2010 before the Census enumerators start knocking on the doors in early August," Hvitlok said.

Just like any other activity involving people meeting in person, sending out people to count from house to house would increase COVID-19 transmission risk at least marginally.

"The census enumerators are people right here in our own community," Hvitlok said. "We're all trying to do what we can still to slow the spread of COVID-19 and so part of that really does mean not having strangers come to your door from the Census, knocking on your door and asking those questions. The other part of it is, it is a savings for the taxpayers."

Getting an accurate Census count is vital to getting the city, county and state's proper share of Federal funds and resources.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The state of Kansas is still seeking responses to the 2020 Census, as is Hutchinson's Complete Count Committee."Response rates have certainly dropped a little bit," said Ryan Hvitlok with the City of Hutchinson. "We're now about two and a half months past census day. We're doing in Kansas, better than nationally. We're at about a 65.4% response rate. Reno County is doing better than the state at 66.8% and the City of Hutchinson is doing a little bit better than the state of Kansas at 65.7%. We're getting close to those 2010 numbers."This week is the Call for the Count in Kansas. It's an effort to get the one-third of people in the state who haven't responded to take the time."We need to get those numbers as close to 2010 or possibly even exceed 2010 before the Census enumerators start knocking on the doors in early August," Hvitlok said.Just like any other activity involving people meeting in person, sending out people to count from house to house would increase COVID-19 transmission risk at least marginally."The census enumerators are people right here in our own community," Hvitlok said. "We're all trying to do what we can still to slow the spread of COVID-19 and so part of that really does mean not having strangers come to your door from the Census, knocking on your door and asking those questions. The other part of it is, it is a savings for the taxpayers."Getting an accurate Census count is vital to getting the city, county and state's proper share of Federal funds and resources.

Call for the Count looking to increase Census response


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Two people narrowly escaped fire and thick smoke at an early morning fire in Hutchinson Wednesday. 

The Hutchinson Fire Department was called just before 2 a.m. to a report of structure fire at 710 West 23rd. First on scene units reported a working fire in a brick framed ranch style home with flames coming out from the windows and the door on the front of the home. 

All the people got out, but they told the firefighters their cats were still inside. Both cats died.

Fire crews were able to bring the fire under control quickly, but not before it did extensive damage to the structure. The fire is still under investigation.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Two people narrowly escaped fire and thick smoke at an early morning fire in Hutchinson Wednesday. The Hutchinson Fire Department was called just before 2 a.m. to a report of structure fire at 710 West 23rd. First on scene units reported a working fire in a brick framed ranch style home with flames coming out from the windows and the door on the front of the home. All the people got out, but they told the firefighters their cats were still inside. Both cats died.Fire crews were able to bring the fire under control quickly, but not before it did extensive damage to the structure. The fire is still under investigation.

People escape, cats perish in Wednesday morning fire

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County will soon be able to provide some personal protective equipment to businesses and organizations that request it.&nbsp;

“What that means is that we can now provide masks and face shields to any business or infrastructure inside the county,” Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar said. “So it can be big business, small business . . . even down to holding a protest, we can provide masks to them as well.”

Weishaar says that filling those requests could present a challenge for the county.

“I met with the Health Department last week and for a 30-day supply, we’re looking at somewhere around 100,000 masks and 30,000 gowns,” Weishaar said. “And we’re supposed to request 90 days.”

Weishaar says that anyone wanting protective gear should expect to wait about a week before requests can be filled and asked for patience from those wanting PPE.

“The Health Department is putting together a more streamlined form so they can handle the requests moving forward,” Weishaar said. “What we’re asking all of the businesses to do right now is to just hold tight with us . . . we probably won’t see any supplies until sometime next week.”

Weishaar says the county may need to establish a storage area and system for distributing PPE once the program gets underway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589552778361.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County will soon be able to provide some personal protective equipment to businesses and organizations that request it.&nbsp;“What that means is that we can now provide masks and face shields to any business or infrastructure inside the county,” Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar said. “So it can be big business, small business . . . even down to holding a protest, we can provide masks to them as well.”Weishaar says that filling those requests could present a challenge for the county.“I met with the Health Department last week and for a 30-day supply, we’re looking at somewhere around 100,000 masks and 30,000 gowns,” Weishaar said. “And we’re supposed to request 90 days.”Weishaar says that anyone wanting protective gear should expect to wait about a week before requests can be filled and asked for patience from those wanting PPE.“The Health Department is putting together a more streamlined form so they can handle the requests moving forward,” Weishaar said. “What we’re asking all of the businesses to do right now is to just hold tight with us . . . we probably won’t see any supplies until sometime next week.”Weishaar says the county may need to establish a storage area and system for distributing PPE once the program gets underway.

 PPE available to area businesses in coming weeks

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the start of the 2020-21 school year mere weeks away, the Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education reviewed district efforts to return students and staff safely to the classroom.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 

During a study session at Monday night’s meeting, the board received an update on the Rapid Response Recovery teams that have been put into place. The teams are working on the plans to reopen school this fall after the coronavirus-shortened 2019-20 school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

The teams of district staff look at the various areas of curriculum, safety, cleanliness and other factors to reopen school. The various teams, then, report to a central “control tower” that brings recommendations back to district-level administrators, the superintendent and ultimately the board.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Online enrollment for returning students is expected to start in mid-July. Walk-in enrollment for elementary schools and middle schools will be Aug. 5 with Hutchinson High School’s walk-in enrollment on Aug. 10.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Most staff return to work on Aug. 12. The first day of class for pre-kindergarten through ninth grade is Aug. 19. The first day for sophomores through seniors is Aug. 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the start of the 2020-21 school year mere weeks away, the Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education reviewed district efforts to return students and staff safely to the classroom.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; During a study session at Monday night’s meeting, the board received an update on the Rapid Response Recovery teams that have been put into place. The teams are working on the plans to reopen school this fall after the coronavirus-shortened 2019-20 school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The teams of district staff look at the various areas of curriculum, safety, cleanliness and other factors to reopen school. The various teams, then, report to a central “control tower” that brings recommendations back to district-level administrators, the superintendent and ultimately the board.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Online enrollment for returning students is expected to start in mid-July. Walk-in enrollment for elementary schools and middle schools will be Aug. 5 with Hutchinson High School’s walk-in enrollment on Aug. 10.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Most staff return to work on Aug. 12. The first day of class for pre-kindergarten through ninth grade is Aug. 19. The first day for sophomores through seniors is Aug. 20.

 USD 308 gets update on fall classes

NICKERSON, Kan. — Nickerson USD 309 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson is back in Kansas. Johnson just recently completed studies at the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in Washington, D.C. Johnson says it is good to be back in Kansas.

“It feels great. I forgot what Kansas wind was like and it didn’t take long to be reminded of it,” Johnson said. “Other than that, the further south and west that I drove, the more like home that it felt.”&nbsp;

Johnson says the course work was very intense and noted that only a very small handful of officers that made it into the college were in the reserves.

“There were about 300 plus folks in my class and only three of us were reserve soldiers,” Johnson said. “We had class Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and then every Wednesday we had guest speakers.” Those speakers included leaders from Google, along with other businesses and military leaders. Those discussions centered around how the military can get and keep good people, and compete with large companies for those workers. She added that getting those workers has become even more difficult with the pandemic. Completion of the coursework in Washington also meant a promotion. Johnson is now a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.

“When I show it in my first reserve gig, back to one weekend a month that will be fun,” Johnson said. “I’m very humbled. There were about 1,750 folks that were up for promotion and only 435 were promoted, and so it gets thinner at the top and I feel very blessed to be one of the few to be selected to continue on.”&nbsp;

Johnson says now that she is back in Kansas it is time to start work on plans to get students back in schools this fall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592942090088.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostNICKERSON, Kan. — Nickerson USD 309 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson is back in Kansas. Johnson just recently completed studies at the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in Washington, D.C. Johnson says it is good to be back in Kansas.“It feels great. I forgot what Kansas wind was like and it didn’t take long to be reminded of it,” Johnson said. “Other than that, the further south and west that I drove, the more like home that it felt.”&nbsp;Johnson says the course work was very intense and noted that only a very small handful of officers that made it into the college were in the reserves.“There were about 300 plus folks in my class and only three of us were reserve soldiers,” Johnson said. “We had class Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and then every Wednesday we had guest speakers.” Those speakers included leaders from Google, along with other businesses and military leaders. Those discussions centered around how the military can get and keep good people, and compete with large companies for those workers. She added that getting those workers has become even more difficult with the pandemic. Completion of the coursework in Washington also meant a promotion. Johnson is now a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.“When I show it in my first reserve gig, back to one weekend a month that will be fun,” Johnson said. “I’m very humbled. There were about 1,750 folks that were up for promotion and only 435 were promoted, and so it gets thinner at the top and I feel very blessed to be one of the few to be selected to continue on.”&nbsp;Johnson says now that she is back in Kansas it is time to start work on plans to get students back in schools this fall.

Dr. Dawn Johnson back in Kansas after year-long stint in DC


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The COVID-19 case count has gone up in Reno County with nine new cases added over the weekend, for a total of ten active cases.

"Generally speaking, all are unknown sources of exposure, outside of one of those cases," said Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti. "Eight, it looks like at this point in time are indicative of some community spread."

Baldetti would not call it a spike in cases, though.

"If we see activity next week or through the course of this week that is familiar to just increasing cases with unknown exposures, then it might be more applicable to use that kind of language."

Baldetti notes that case count is just one data point and the other data points still look okay for now, particularly hospitalizations.

"As of this morning with a census of 75, Hutchinson Hospital has one individual who they have tested potentially for COVID with no COVID-19 related hospitalizations," Baldetti said. "However, there seems to be activity in Sedgwick County related to COVID-19 and a high increase in hospitalizations and activity there."

Baldetti is reaching out to his colleague there for more information, as Sedgwick County and Reno County have a lot of commuting both directions.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The COVID-19 case count has gone up in Reno County with nine new cases added over the weekend, for a total of ten active cases."Generally speaking, all are unknown sources of exposure, outside of one of those cases," said Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti. "Eight, it looks like at this point in time are indicative of some community spread."Baldetti would not call it a spike in cases, though."If we see activity next week or through the course of this week that is familiar to just increasing cases with unknown exposures, then it might be more applicable to use that kind of language."Baldetti notes that case count is just one data point and the other data points still look okay for now, particularly hospitalizations."As of this morning with a census of 75, Hutchinson Hospital has one individual who they have tested potentially for COVID with no COVID-19 related hospitalizations," Baldetti said. "However, there seems to be activity in Sedgwick County related to COVID-19 and a high increase in hospitalizations and activity there."Baldetti is reaching out to his colleague there for more information, as Sedgwick County and Reno County have a lot of commuting both directions.

Baldetti: Increase in case count worth watching, but so far no hospitalization issues


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —State Board of Education member Ben Jones believes Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson when he says school will start on time in August. 


"At this time, it's going to be in person, in buildings," Jones said. "That's what we're anticipating for most of this next year. That's what we're planning on. Plan A is to have our kids and teachers back together again."

There will be a lot of decisions that happen below the State Board level.

"We're dealing with issues that have to deal with local school boards, which is operations," Jones said. "They hire, fire. They have to be held accountable to their voters. We work with them, but for the most part, our districts really do look to the department for guidance."

Guidance is exactly what the documents presented to the board will be, because Kansas has a variety of school situations.

"We have to make it nimble enough," Jones said. "Creating a statewide plan, what works for, say the Blue Valley school district in Johnson County or Olathe does not work for the St. Francis school district up in the northwest corner, or Liberal, or Dodge City, or Lyons or Hutchinson or Fairfield. They all have their unique challenges and they need that ability to create a plan for their local district."

The guidance will come to the state board at their next meeting in July.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —State Board of Education member Ben Jones believes Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson when he says school will start on time in August. 
"At this time, it's going to be in person, in buildings," Jones said. "That's what we're anticipating for most of this next year. That's what we're planning on. Plan A is to have our kids and teachers back together again."There will be a lot of decisions that happen below the State Board level."We're dealing with issues that have to deal with local school boards, which is operations," Jones said. "They hire, fire. They have to be held accountable to their voters. We work with them, but for the most part, our districts really do look to the department for guidance."Guidance is exactly what the documents presented to the board will be, because Kansas has a variety of school situations."We have to make it nimble enough," Jones said. "Creating a statewide plan, what works for, say the Blue Valley school district in Johnson County or Olathe does not work for the St. Francis school district up in the northwest corner, or Liberal, or Dodge City, or Lyons or Hutchinson or Fairfield. They all have their unique challenges and they need that ability to create a plan for their local district."The guidance will come to the state board at their next meeting in July.

State Board member knows guidance document has to be flexible

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While Hutchinson has numerous grain elevators served by the nation’s two largest railroads, many small towns west of Hutchinson relies on short lines railroads to move the harvest.

The Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad serves many of the small cities west of Hutchinson. Tracie Van Becelaere with Watco Transportation says they are looking good for moving the harvest out of the area. The railroad serves Nickerson, Haven, and Yoder in Reno County as well as Sterling, Lyons and Geneseo to the north before heading into western Kansas from there.&nbsp;

The railroad then transfers grain to the major railroads in Hutchinson and Wichita. Both BNSF and Union Pacific also say they expect no car shortages with the harvest and with better weather should be able to move product faster than last year.

The railroad says they don’t foresee a car shortage this year. K and O typically move about 4,000 carloads during the summer harvest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592926440501.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While Hutchinson has numerous grain elevators served by the nation’s two largest railroads, many small towns west of Hutchinson relies on short lines railroads to move the harvest.The Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad serves many of the small cities west of Hutchinson. Tracie Van Becelaere with Watco Transportation says they are looking good for moving the harvest out of the area. The railroad serves Nickerson, Haven, and Yoder in Reno County as well as Sterling, Lyons and Geneseo to the north before heading into western Kansas from there.&nbsp;The railroad then transfers grain to the major railroads in Hutchinson and Wichita. Both BNSF and Union Pacific also say they expect no car shortages with the harvest and with better weather should be able to move product faster than last year.The railroad says they don’t foresee a car shortage this year. K and O typically move about 4,000 carloads during the summer harvest.

K and O Railroad reports enough capacity to move harvest


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The wheat harvest is still on hold and they weren't that far into it before the rains came late last week and into this one, but it isn't that danger that comes out of a farmer's mouth first.

"Right now, the price of grain is really the big driver," said K-State Extension agent Ryan Flaming in Harvey County. "The uncertainty of the grain markets."

Farmers have a decision to make and it's hard to have enough information to make the decision.

"Harvest is going good, I mean, good yields are coming in," Flaming said. "That's the positive stuff I've been hearing. The negative part is, they don't know when to market the wheat. Try to sell it as they dump it off over the scale or should they pay storage and hold on to it for a while, hoping on the market to go up down the road?"

If farmers want to store their grain, they should be able to do that, unless yields are a lot bigger than thought.

"I know Canton's got several piles of it out there right now, but I don't think right now there should be any storage complications," Flaming said. "We'll see how harvest goes and what kinds of yields we see will have a pretty big effect on that."

Flaming said traditionally farmers go to their best fields first, so he expects yields to taper off as the harvest goes along, but that they were only a couple of days in when the rains came at the end of last week. He expects it to be 80% done by the 4th of July if weather doesn't get in the way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592925138794.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The wheat harvest is still on hold and they weren't that far into it before the rains came late last week and into this one, but it isn't that danger that comes out of a farmer's mouth first."Right now, the price of grain is really the big driver," said K-State Extension agent Ryan Flaming in Harvey County. "The uncertainty of the grain markets."Farmers have a decision to make and it's hard to have enough information to make the decision."Harvest is going good, I mean, good yields are coming in," Flaming said. "That's the positive stuff I've been hearing. The negative part is, they don't know when to market the wheat. Try to sell it as they dump it off over the scale or should they pay storage and hold on to it for a while, hoping on the market to go up down the road?"If farmers want to store their grain, they should be able to do that, unless yields are a lot bigger than thought."I know Canton's got several piles of it out there right now, but I don't think right now there should be any storage complications," Flaming said. "We'll see how harvest goes and what kinds of yields we see will have a pretty big effect on that."Flaming said traditionally farmers go to their best fields first, so he expects yields to taper off as the harvest goes along, but that they were only a couple of days in when the rains came at the end of last week. He expects it to be 80% done by the 4th of July if weather doesn't get in the way.

Marketing decisions still tough for farmers as they wait for fields to dry


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A Hutchinson cheer gym is a part of a national contest for a cheer gym makeover from The Open.

"We had to send in <a href="https://youtu.be/RXjd_pHg0po">a video</a> of our gym," said Midwest Express Cheer coach Lauren Galyon. "Some of the parents spoke in the video about the coaches and how we as coaches, we're family. We are a family-owned gym, but our goal is to be able to help people who can't afford cheer afford cheerleading."

Midwest Express Cheer is one of ten gyms from across the country <a href="https://openchampionshipseries.com/cheer-gym-extreme-makeover-voting/">vying for your vote</a>. You can vote once per 24-hour period.

"That would give people free choreography," Galyon said. "We would get free uniforms. We would get free equipment. Equipment's expensive. It's hard to replace equipment because it's so expensive and with us trying to help athletes save money for tuition and stuff, it's hard for us to be able to buy equipment."

Galyon teaches cheer squads from ages 3 to 18. You can vote once per 24-hour period.

"Our girls are like family," Galyon said. "We treat them like family. We want what's best for them, like if they were our sisters. If they're having trouble at school, if they're having trouble anywhere, they know they can come and talk to us. We feel like it's more than just a sport."

The gyms with the top three votes will go to the finals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592922978055.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A Hutchinson cheer gym is a part of a national contest for a cheer gym makeover from The Open."We had to send in <a href="https://youtu.be/RXjd_pHg0po">a video</a> of our gym," said Midwest Express Cheer coach Lauren Galyon. "Some of the parents spoke in the video about the coaches and how we as coaches, we're family. We are a family-owned gym, but our goal is to be able to help people who can't afford cheer afford cheerleading."Midwest Express Cheer is one of ten gyms from across the country <a href="https://openchampionshipseries.com/cheer-gym-extreme-makeover-voting/">vying for your vote</a>. You can vote once per 24-hour period."That would give people free choreography," Galyon said. "We would get free uniforms. We would get free equipment. Equipment's expensive. It's hard to replace equipment because it's so expensive and with us trying to help athletes save money for tuition and stuff, it's hard for us to be able to buy equipment."Galyon teaches cheer squads from ages 3 to 18. You can vote once per 24-hour period."Our girls are like family," Galyon said. "We treat them like family. We want what's best for them, like if they were our sisters. If they're having trouble at school, if they're having trouble anywhere, they know they can come and talk to us. We feel like it's more than just a sport."The gyms with the top three votes will go to the finals.

Hutchinson cheer gym part of national contest


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Housing Commission has its next meeting Wednesday afternoon and will discuss housing protection for protected classes in light of the latest Supreme Court decision finding that LGBTQ people cannot be discriminated against in employment decisions based on sex.

Also on the agenda for that meeting is a featured neighborhood report from Adam Stewart, an update on the grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank, an update on the CDBG Grant for the Creekside neighborhood, and a code enforcement update.

The meeting will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday on Zoom.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Housing Commission has its next meeting Wednesday afternoon and will discuss housing protection for protected classes in light of the latest Supreme Court decision finding that LGBTQ people cannot be discriminated against in employment decisions based on sex.Also on the agenda for that meeting is a featured neighborhood report from Adam Stewart, an update on the grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank, an update on the CDBG Grant for the Creekside neighborhood, and a code enforcement update.The meeting will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday on Zoom.

Housing Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday

NEWTON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed three new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County.

One confirmed case is a female in her 20s. The individual was a close contact of a known active case. She had previously quarantined as a precaution, and is now isolating at home. Testing was completed by a private lab.

Two additional confirmed cases include a male and female, each 10 to 19 years old. Both had known out of state travel. They are in home isolation. Testing was completed by a private lab.

The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all contacts.

Harvey County has had 24 COVID-19 cases to date, including 20 confirmed and four probable cases. There are nine known active cases in Harvey County. As of this morning, there have been 1,302 tests conducted in Harvey County.

“We stay in communication with our local health partners as we monitor our recent increase in cases. COVID-19 continues to be a public health concern, and one without a verified treatment or vaccine,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “Taking preventative steps such as frequent hand washing, social distancing and wearing a face cover when you can’t maintain social distancing are still the best ways to protect yourself and others.”

As of today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 12,465 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 154,770 completed tests in Kansas.

Harvey County transitioned to the Phase Out guidance of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan as of June 17. However, the County has restricted visitation at long-term care facilities through June 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586533807157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed three new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County.One confirmed case is a female in her 20s. The individual was a close contact of a known active case. She had previously quarantined as a precaution, and is now isolating at home. Testing was completed by a private lab.Two additional confirmed cases include a male and female, each 10 to 19 years old. Both had known out of state travel. They are in home isolation. Testing was completed by a private lab.The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all contacts.Harvey County has had 24 COVID-19 cases to date, including 20 confirmed and four probable cases. There are nine known active cases in Harvey County. As of this morning, there have been 1,302 tests conducted in Harvey County.“We stay in communication with our local health partners as we monitor our recent increase in cases. COVID-19 continues to be a public health concern, and one without a verified treatment or vaccine,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “Taking preventative steps such as frequent hand washing, social distancing and wearing a face cover when you can’t maintain social distancing are still the best ways to protect yourself and others.”As of today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 12,465 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 154,770 completed tests in Kansas.Harvey County transitioned to the Phase Out guidance of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan as of June 17. However, the County has restricted visitation at long-term care facilities through June 23.

Active case count in Harvey County up to nine

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council discussed but took no action on what to do about the city's tornado warning system during a recent meeting.

The siren has not worked during the past several severe weather events. In March, the city informed residents that the siren would not be used and advised they find other means of getting weather alerts.

City Clerk April Beshears says the cost to replace the warning system could run anywhere from $23,000 to as much as $70,000 depending on what needs to be replaced. Beshears says it really is up to the townspeople whether that is a tax expense they want for what is becoming an antiquated warning system.

Reno County Emergency Management was also a part of the meeting and has gone through the community introducing them to the county’s Everbridge system that uses cell technology to alert residents of impending weather. Beshears says the Everbridge system has been met with positive reactions from residents.

The future of the warning system will be addressed again during the council’s meeting in July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592853018555.jpeg" alt="This photo shows the controls of the weather warning system in Nickerson. The system has not worked during the last several severe weather events. Residents are being asked to find alternative ways to get severe weather reports until the City Council can decide whether to replace the system.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>This photo shows the controls of the weather warning system in Nickerson. The system has not worked during the last several severe weather events. Residents are being asked to find alternative ways to get severe weather reports until the City Council can decide whether to replace the system.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council discussed but took no action on what to do about the city's tornado warning system during a recent meeting.The siren has not worked during the past several severe weather events. In March, the city informed residents that the siren would not be used and advised they find other means of getting weather alerts.City Clerk April Beshears says the cost to replace the warning system could run anywhere from $23,000 to as much as $70,000 depending on what needs to be replaced. Beshears says it really is up to the townspeople whether that is a tax expense they want for what is becoming an antiquated warning system.Reno County Emergency Management was also a part of the meeting and has gone through the community introducing them to the county’s Everbridge system that uses cell technology to alert residents of impending weather. Beshears says the Everbridge system has been met with positive reactions from residents.The future of the warning system will be addressed again during the council’s meeting in July.

City of Nickerson still addressing weather warning system

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Animal Shelter is always looking for donations of supplies to help with the care of its animals.&nbsp;

But one person really stepped up recently. Shelter Director Michaela Schommer says an anonymous woman walked in and out of the shelter last week to drop off some litter box donations. When the shelter personnel went to put the boxes away, they found an envelope with $500 in cash.

No name was left with the envelope. The shelter wanted to say "thank you" to the person who was so kind to leave such a donation. 

The shelter says it hopes to use the money to purchase much-needed supplies for the kittens in foster care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592854638995.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Animal Shelter is always looking for donations of supplies to help with the care of its animals.&nbsp;But one person really stepped up recently. Shelter Director Michaela Schommer says an anonymous woman walked in and out of the shelter last week to drop off some litter box donations. When the shelter personnel went to put the boxes away, they found an envelope with $500 in cash.No name was left with the envelope. The shelter wanted to say "thank you" to the person who was so kind to leave such a donation. The shelter says it hopes to use the money to purchase much-needed supplies for the kittens in foster care.

Anonymous donation made to animal shelter

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Reno County will be hosting a forum for Reno County Commission and Kansas State Legislature candidates that will be appearing on the August primary ballot. 

The forum will be Tuesday, July 7, at 5:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.  The evening will begin with the Reno County District 3 Candidate Forum with candidates Daniel Friesen and Ronald Vincent.  Immediately following will be the Kansas Legislative Candidate Forum with Kansas Senate District 34 candidates Sen. Dr. Ed Berger and Dr. Mark Steffen, as well as Kansas Representative District 114 candidates Bob Booth and Michael Murphy.

Debra Teufel, president and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber, will act as the moderator and questions will be asked by a three-person panel.

Candidates will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements. During the question and answer period, candidates will be given a limited time to answer to keep the forum moving. No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however, the public is invited to submit questions in advance to the Hutch Chamber office. Questions may be submitted to Lacie Janzen at <a href="mailto:laciej@hutchchamber.com">laciej@hutchchamber.com</a>.

There is no cost to attend. Members of the Chamber business community and Young Professionals organization, as well as the general public, are encouraged to attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592851747011.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Reno County will be hosting a forum for Reno County Commission and Kansas State Legislature candidates that will be appearing on the August primary ballot. The forum will be Tuesday, July 7, at 5:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus. The evening will begin with the Reno County District 3 Candidate Forum with candidates Daniel Friesen and Ronald Vincent. Immediately following will be the Kansas Legislative Candidate Forum with Kansas Senate District 34 candidates Sen. Dr. Ed Berger and Dr. Mark Steffen, as well as Kansas Representative District 114 candidates Bob Booth and Michael Murphy.Debra Teufel, president and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber, will act as the moderator and questions will be asked by a three-person panel.Candidates will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements. During the question and answer period, candidates will be given a limited time to answer to keep the forum moving. No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however, the public is invited to submit questions in advance to the Hutch Chamber office. Questions may be submitted to Lacie Janzen at <a href="mailto:laciej@hutchchamber.com">laciej@hutchchamber.com</a>.There is no cost to attend. Members of the Chamber business community and Young Professionals organization, as well as the general public, are encouraged to attend.

Chamber to host first candidate forum July 7

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Although it is a light agenda for Tuesday’s regular meeting, it will be a busy week for Reno County commissioners.

The only action item on the agenda is the audit report for the county along with commission and county administrator reports. The board will hear the weekly reports from Adam Weishaar and Nick Baldetti on the pandemic and approve the consent agenda. The real work starts on Thursday where the commission will begin the first of two days of budget meetings.&nbsp;

The county is looking to cut between $1 million and $2 million from the 2021 numbers. Those meetings are expected to continue on Friday.

Tuesday’s agenda session begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576610766240.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Although it is a light agenda for Tuesday’s regular meeting, it will be a busy week for Reno County commissioners.The only action item on the agenda is the audit report for the county along with commission and county administrator reports. The board will hear the weekly reports from Adam Weishaar and Nick Baldetti on the pandemic and approve the consent agenda. The real work starts on Thursday where the commission will begin the first of two days of budget meetings.&nbsp;The county is looking to cut between $1 million and $2 million from the 2021 numbers. Those meetings are expected to continue on Friday.Tuesday’s agenda session begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

County Commission has a busy week ahead

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are still a few openings for the Boys &amp; Girls Club Great Futures Golf Tournament this year. After it was postponed twice because of the pandemic, the annual fundraiser will be held Aug. 14 starting at 8 a.m. at Crazy Horse Golf Club.

According to Skip Wilson with the Boys &amp; Girls Club, about seven team openings remain. The cost is $500 per team or $125 for an individual.&nbsp;

The annual event is one of the major fundraisers for the organization. If you would like more information or want to enter, you can do so online at <a href="https://www.bgchutch.com/event-signup">bgchutch.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584740557772.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are still a few openings for the Boys &amp; Girls Club Great Futures Golf Tournament this year. After it was postponed twice because of the pandemic, the annual fundraiser will be held Aug. 14 starting at 8 a.m. at Crazy Horse Golf Club.According to Skip Wilson with the Boys &amp; Girls Club, about seven team openings remain. The cost is $500 per team or $125 for an individual.&nbsp;The annual event is one of the major fundraisers for the organization. If you would like more information or want to enter, you can do so online at <a href="https://www.bgchutch.com/event-signup">bgchutch.com</a>.

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