HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti took time during Tuesday’s County Commission meeting to address the increase in COVID-19 cases in the state.

“We are beginning to see some activity in aggregate that is increasing our case count in terms of day-over-day,” Baldetti said.&nbsp;

Baldetti says that, while the state report is cause for concern, he is more concerned with focusing on what’s going on locally.

“I’m not discounting the entirety of this map,” Baldetti said when addressing commission questions about the increases. “There are counties where counts are going up significantly and are trending in the wrong direction. I just want to be very careful in clarifying in terms of the activity that the public health department is monitoring for us.”

As of now, there are four active cases of COVID-19 involving Reno County residents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti took time during Tuesday’s County Commission meeting to address the increase in COVID-19 cases in the state.“We are beginning to see some activity in aggregate that is increasing our case count in terms of day-over-day,” Baldetti said.&nbsp;Baldetti says that, while the state report is cause for concern, he is more concerned with focusing on what’s going on locally.“I’m not discounting the entirety of this map,” Baldetti said when addressing commission questions about the increases. “There are counties where counts are going up significantly and are trending in the wrong direction. I just want to be very careful in clarifying in terms of the activity that the public health department is monitoring for us.”As of now, there are four active cases of COVID-19 involving Reno County residents.

COVID-19 case increase is being watched closely

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board approved extending Interim Superintendent Dr. Jeanne Stroh’s contract for another month during Monday’s agenda session.&nbsp;

Stroh has been filling in for Dr. Dawn Johnson the past year while Johnson attended the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in Washington, D.C.

Johnson has completed her coursework but was given an assignment and will be busy with that through the end of July.

The board also took time to recognize Jackie Ashcraft, who was a longtime instructor around the area. Sen. Ed Berger was behind the presentation to Ashcraft, who taught at area schools for 50 years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board approved extending Interim Superintendent Dr. Jeanne Stroh’s contract for another month during Monday’s agenda session.&nbsp;Stroh has been filling in for Dr. Dawn Johnson the past year while Johnson attended the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in Washington, D.C.Johnson has completed her coursework but was given an assignment and will be busy with that through the end of July.The board also took time to recognize Jackie Ashcraft, who was a longtime instructor around the area. Sen. Ed Berger was behind the presentation to Ashcraft, who taught at area schools for 50 years.

Stroh's contract extended for one month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even pollinators like to dine at the Kansas State Fair. And although it may make you sneeze and your eyes itch, the fair is getting ready to celebrate all that is pollen with a special event next week.

The Kansas State Fair’s Education Department is recognizing the important role of bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects during National Pollinator Week while having some fun at the same time.

The fairgrounds will be abuzz June 23 with the fair’s inaugural Pollinator Picnic. The day’s festivities are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and include hands-on activities at the fair’s Education Center, talks at the Lake Talbott pollinator garden and food trucks. The fair’s new mascot, Ike, will also make an appearance for photos at 5:30 p.m. at the Education Center.

Food trucks include a Pronto Pup trailer, along with cheese curd and funnel cake vendors. Fair staff will also be giving away 200 seeded sunflower plants and 2020 Pollinator Partnership posters.

Pollinators are vital to production agriculture. The global food supply relies on pollinators for crops to flourish. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that one out of every three bites of food Americans eat exists because of pollinators.

The fair has expanded its pollinator education the past few years, which includes four pollinator gardens across the fairgrounds and curriculum centered on their significance.

The Pollinator Party is free and open to the public. Vendors will be selling food from their trucks. The fair’s Sunflower Gift Shop will also be open in the Education Center. While the event is mainly outside, the fair reminds people to be considerate of others and to social distance. Hand sanitizer stations will be on location, but visitors are also encouraged to bring their own sanitizer. For more information, email Jacki Eckert at <a href="mailto:Jacki.Eckert@ks.gov">Jacki.Eckert@ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592323770888.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even pollinators like to dine at the Kansas State Fair. And although it may make you sneeze and your eyes itch, the fair is getting ready to celebrate all that is pollen with a special event next week.The Kansas State Fair’s Education Department is recognizing the important role of bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects during National Pollinator Week while having some fun at the same time.The fairgrounds will be abuzz June 23 with the fair’s inaugural Pollinator Picnic. The day’s festivities are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and include hands-on activities at the fair’s Education Center, talks at the Lake Talbott pollinator garden and food trucks. The fair’s new mascot, Ike, will also make an appearance for photos at 5:30 p.m. at the Education Center.Food trucks include a Pronto Pup trailer, along with cheese curd and funnel cake vendors. Fair staff will also be giving away 200 seeded sunflower plants and 2020 Pollinator Partnership posters.Pollinators are vital to production agriculture. The global food supply relies on pollinators for crops to flourish. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that one out of every three bites of food Americans eat exists because of pollinators.The fair has expanded its pollinator education the past few years, which includes four pollinator gardens across the fairgrounds and curriculum centered on their significance.The Pollinator Party is free and open to the public. Vendors will be selling food from their trucks. The fair’s Sunflower Gift Shop will also be open in the Education Center. While the event is mainly outside, the fair reminds people to be considerate of others and to social distance. Hand sanitizer stations will be on location, but visitors are also encouraged to bring their own sanitizer. For more information, email Jacki Eckert at <a href="mailto:Jacki.Eckert@ks.gov">Jacki.Eckert@ks.gov</a>.

Kansas State Fair to celebrate all that is pollen

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Liberty Bell 7 spacecraft came back home to the Cosmosphere on Monday after touring around the world for the past six years.&nbsp;

Cosmosphere president Jim Remar says the tour of the spacecraft serves two purposes for the museum. He understands that the Cosmosphere mission is to not only care for the artifacts, but to share them as well.

“The Liberty Bell is owned by the Cosmosphere and obviously is an important part of our collection,” Remar said. “We feel that part of our mission is to share our artifacts with the public at large.”

Remar says there is revenue that comes into the museum for sharing the artifacts that help fund the museum’s operations. While the spacecraft that was rescued from the bottom of the ocean floor is certainly the most recognizable artifact that the Cosmosphere tours, it's not the only one.

“We have two international exhibits that we support,” Remar said. “And then we’re in conversation with a group in Brazil for a third international exhibit, so we literally have hundreds of artifacts around the globe.”

Most of these items, including the Liberty Bell, are valuable beyond a number. Remar admits being a little nervous when such artifacts are on tour:

“The spacecraft is invaluable,” Remar noted. “It’s an incredible artifact and has a special place in this county’s history of space exploration and so it does make you nervous as it crisscrosses the country and even travels internationally.”

The Cosmosphere is one of the few museums to have a spacecraft from each of the space race programs with Liberty Bell 7, Gemini 10 and Apollo 13.

The Liberty Bell will be in Hutchinson until the end of the year before making its way to South America.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592336526321.jpeg" alt="The Liberty Bell 7, flown by Gus Grissom, sits in the lobby of the Cosmosphere. The spacecraft that was rescued from the bottom of the ocean after more than 40 years has been on tour. It will be at the museum until the end of the year." />
 <figcaption>The Liberty Bell 7, flown by Gus Grissom, sits in the lobby of the Cosmosphere. The spacecraft that was rescued from the bottom of the ocean after more than 40 years has been on tour. It will be at the museum until the end of the year.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Liberty Bell 7 spacecraft came back home to the Cosmosphere on Monday after touring around the world for the past six years.&nbsp;Cosmosphere president Jim Remar says the tour of the spacecraft serves two purposes for the museum. He understands that the Cosmosphere mission is to not only care for the artifacts, but to share them as well.“The Liberty Bell is owned by the Cosmosphere and obviously is an important part of our collection,” Remar said. “We feel that part of our mission is to share our artifacts with the public at large.”Remar says there is revenue that comes into the museum for sharing the artifacts that help fund the museum’s operations. While the spacecraft that was rescued from the bottom of the ocean floor is certainly the most recognizable artifact that the Cosmosphere tours, it's not the only one.“We have two international exhibits that we support,” Remar said. “And then we’re in conversation with a group in Brazil for a third international exhibit, so we literally have hundreds of artifacts around the globe.”Most of these items, including the Liberty Bell, are valuable beyond a number. Remar admits being a little nervous when such artifacts are on tour:“The spacecraft is invaluable,” Remar noted. “It’s an incredible artifact and has a special place in this county’s history of space exploration and so it does make you nervous as it crisscrosses the country and even travels internationally.”The Cosmosphere is one of the few museums to have a spacecraft from each of the space race programs with Liberty Bell 7, Gemini 10 and Apollo 13.The Liberty Bell will be in Hutchinson until the end of the year before making its way to South America.&nbsp;

Liberty Bell tour a necessary part of Cosmosphere's operations

NEWTON, Kan. — Stressing that COVID-19 has not gone away and care still needs to be taken, Harvey County will transition to the Phase Out guidance of the Harvey County Health Reopening Plan regarding COVID-19 response beginning June 17.

The Harvey County Commission, in consultation with the Harvey County Health Department, voted unanimously at its regular meeting Tuesday to move forward in its local plan. However, visitation at long-term care facilities will remain restricted through June 23.

The Phase Out guidance does not restrict mass gathering size. Businesses and event coordinators are still encouraged to promote hygiene protocols and social distancing among customers and visitors.

Individuals should remain home if they feel sick. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, please contact your medical provider.

The Harvey County Health Reopening Plan will remain available should the commission determine it is in the interest of public health to move back to a previous phase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584475841056.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — Stressing that COVID-19 has not gone away and care still needs to be taken, Harvey County will transition to the Phase Out guidance of the Harvey County Health Reopening Plan regarding COVID-19 response beginning June 17.The Harvey County Commission, in consultation with the Harvey County Health Department, voted unanimously at its regular meeting Tuesday to move forward in its local plan. However, visitation at long-term care facilities will remain restricted through June 23.The Phase Out guidance does not restrict mass gathering size. Businesses and event coordinators are still encouraged to promote hygiene protocols and social distancing among customers and visitors.Individuals should remain home if they feel sick. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, please contact your medical provider.The Harvey County Health Reopening Plan will remain available should the commission determine it is in the interest of public health to move back to a previous phase.

Harvey County further easing restrictions

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

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

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

Recent obituaries


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Municipal Band is pleased to announce their 2020 Summer Concert Series begins Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.

"This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we're going to start with the Salt City Jazz Band, which has about 20 players in it," said President Randy Johnston. The Municipal Band itself typically has between 35 and 40 players on any given evening and we have a quintet unit that circulates the rest of the year, a brass quintet that's Christmas music and music at other special events, often performing at Veteran's Day and so on."

All concerts are held on Tuesdays at 8:00 pm in Carey Park next to the Hutchinson Zoo and generally last around one hour.

"There are paid players and there are volunteer players," Johnston said. "The band members come from here in Hutchinson, but also surrounding communities of Buhler and Haven and Sterling and so forth. The directors that are band instructors during the school year typically are often there as players. It gives them an opportunity to play rather than conduct."

Given that the only rehearsals are the evening of the performances, it is a bit of an endurance exercise.

"It is clear early in the season that you run out of chops pretty quick," Johnston said. "Your mouth gets pretty tired, but fundamentally it's pretty good. More important than that, I would say are sight-reading skills, because we don't get to rehearse the pieces but the one time or maybe a bit of a walkthrough, so you have to be fairly good at sight-reading, but then you have to be able to play for almost a three-hour period in effect, to complete the concerts."

Patrons are asked to enjoy concerts from the comfort of their vehicles or bring their own lawn chairs and practice social distancing by leaving six feet between parties. Admission is free.

<figure>
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Municipal Band is pleased to announce their 2020 Summer Concert Series begins Tuesday at 8:00 p.m."This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we're going to start with the Salt City Jazz Band, which has about 20 players in it," said President Randy Johnston. The Municipal Band itself typically has between 35 and 40 players on any given evening and we have a quintet unit that circulates the rest of the year, a brass quintet that's Christmas music and music at other special events, often performing at Veteran's Day and so on."All concerts are held on Tuesdays at 8:00 pm in Carey Park next to the Hutchinson Zoo and generally last around one hour."There are paid players and there are volunteer players," Johnston said. "The band members come from here in Hutchinson, but also surrounding communities of Buhler and Haven and Sterling and so forth. The directors that are band instructors during the school year typically are often there as players. It gives them an opportunity to play rather than conduct."Given that the only rehearsals are the evening of the performances, it is a bit of an endurance exercise."It is clear early in the season that you run out of chops pretty quick," Johnston said. "Your mouth gets pretty tired, but fundamentally it's pretty good. More important than that, I would say are sight-reading skills, because we don't get to rehearse the pieces but the one time or maybe a bit of a walkthrough, so you have to be fairly good at sight-reading, but then you have to be able to play for almost a three-hour period in effect, to complete the concerts."Patrons are asked to enjoy concerts from the comfort of their vehicles or bring their own lawn chairs and practice social distancing by leaving six feet between parties. Admission is free.

Municipal band to begin 145th season Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper is concerned that covering the special events in the community like those to take place on the 4th of July makes it more difficult to do day-to-day police work in the current budget situation.

"All of last year, we worked really hard to build up that relationship with those community engagements, those community initiatives and attending those community events and really making that connection with the community," Hooper said. "We also implemented our intelligence-led policing strategy and implemented crime reduction strategies and we were successful, because we lowered our crime rate by 28%."

At the end of January, the city had lowered crime another 1.7%. After ending non-essential overtime, crime has gone up 2%. By the end of May, crime in the community is back up 4.4% and violent crime is up 8.8%.

"There are times in this city with our shortage of manpower, that we're short resources on the street, just responding to regular calls," Hooper said. "When we talk about events like this, it requires overtime to do these events. With COVID-19 hitting and our shortfalls, we obviously had to cut back on all our overtime and I was up here a few months ago committing to you that we would eliminate all non-essential overtime and we've done that. What has happened is, that means we have not been able to engage in those community events and those things that are really important, I think, for our relationship and connection with the community, but also we've not been able to engage in a lot of our crime reduction strategies."

The department is still down six officers from what Hooper would consider full strength. Eight additional officers are in training, so they're working right now 14 short.

"Crime is creeping back up," Hooper said. "I don't want to get back to where we were before, where we have a high crime rate in this city, because I think that effects a lot. It effects commerce. It effects people wanting to come here, businesses wanting to come here and that's super important to me."

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper is concerned that covering the special events in the community like those to take place on the 4th of July makes it more difficult to do day-to-day police work in the current budget situation."All of last year, we worked really hard to build up that relationship with those community engagements, those community initiatives and attending those community events and really making that connection with the community," Hooper said. "We also implemented our intelligence-led policing strategy and implemented crime reduction strategies and we were successful, because we lowered our crime rate by 28%."At the end of January, the city had lowered crime another 1.7%. After ending non-essential overtime, crime has gone up 2%. By the end of May, crime in the community is back up 4.4% and violent crime is up 8.8%."There are times in this city with our shortage of manpower, that we're short resources on the street, just responding to regular calls," Hooper said. "When we talk about events like this, it requires overtime to do these events. With COVID-19 hitting and our shortfalls, we obviously had to cut back on all our overtime and I was up here a few months ago committing to you that we would eliminate all non-essential overtime and we've done that. What has happened is, that means we have not been able to engage in those community events and those things that are really important, I think, for our relationship and connection with the community, but also we've not been able to engage in a lot of our crime reduction strategies."The department is still down six officers from what Hooper would consider full strength. Eight additional officers are in training, so they're working right now 14 short."Crime is creeping back up," Hooper said. "I don't want to get back to where we were before, where we have a high crime rate in this city, because I think that effects a lot. It effects commerce. It effects people wanting to come here, businesses wanting to come here and that's super important to me."The city currently has 75 officers.

Hooper: Budget and understaffing stretching police resources


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;In light of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision this week that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act gives employment protections to LGBTQ people on the basis of sex, Hutchinson Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho asked City of Hutchinson Human Relations Officer Datjeda Moore where city policy should go next to clarify compliance with the decision.

"I also am wondering about how to bring our human relations ordinance in alignment with those protections," Piros de Carvalho said. "Currently, chapter three of our city code lays out job and housing protections against discrimination, but it does exclude the LGBTQ community. I don't know if that is something that needs to be done administratively through our attorney, or if the human relations commission needs to bring back language."

Moore said the Human Relations Commission is on top of the issue.

"Our meeting for tomorrow, we're going to be reviewing what the language is being shared at that level and how we can fit it into our local ordinances, Moore said. "Our anticipation is that we can insert it according to the protected classes space and use that there, but we're not sure how that will have to look."

The hope is that the council can see amended language soon.

"If we can get to that this Wednesday and have that discussion and then, depending on what we might need to do back and forth with Paul, I hope that we can do it pretty quickly."

Piros de Carvalho said in her attempt to read the decision, it was focused on the employment piece. It isn't clear how a rewrite would work with regard to housing at this point. The next meeting of the Human Relations Commission is Wednesday at 4 p.m.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;In light of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision this week that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act gives employment protections to LGBTQ people on the basis of sex, Hutchinson Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho asked City of Hutchinson Human Relations Officer Datjeda Moore where city policy should go next to clarify compliance with the decision."I also am wondering about how to bring our human relations ordinance in alignment with those protections," Piros de Carvalho said. "Currently, chapter three of our city code lays out job and housing protections against discrimination, but it does exclude the LGBTQ community. I don't know if that is something that needs to be done administratively through our attorney, or if the human relations commission needs to bring back language."Moore said the Human Relations Commission is on top of the issue."Our meeting for tomorrow, we're going to be reviewing what the language is being shared at that level and how we can fit it into our local ordinances, Moore said. "Our anticipation is that we can insert it according to the protected classes space and use that there, but we're not sure how that will have to look."The hope is that the council can see amended language soon."If we can get to that this Wednesday and have that discussion and then, depending on what we might need to do back and forth with Paul, I hope that we can do it pretty quickly."Piros de Carvalho said in her attempt to read the decision, it was focused on the employment piece. It isn't clear how a rewrite would work with regard to housing at this point. The next meeting of the Human Relations Commission is Wednesday at 4 p.m.

Supreme Court decision to have city impact


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The speed of the special session of the Legislature this spring and the effects of COVID-19 on the regular session suggest that the Legislature could accomplish its work in less time, but Ed Berger doesn't want to throw the baby out with the bathwater.

"I think we could do it in fewer days," State Senator Ed Berger said. "This was a relatively short legislative session. We adjourned early because of the COVID-19 epidemic. That was on March 19th and didn't come back then until May. I think we could get things done a little quicker."

Berger is still a fan of the legislative process, though, even though most of that was worked around in the special session in the interest of speed.

"You have to have a process that allows complete vetting of legislation," Berger said. "I think that's really an important component of the process. We have to have input from all sides. We have to hear all arguments. Lots of times, even with this thorough vetting process that we have, there are unintended consequences of legislation."

The hope is that the normal deliberative process helps avoid some of those consequences.

"The real work happens in the committee environment," Berger said. "A legislator relies a lot on what happens in those committees. We take that committee recommendation and we challenge that committee with questions from the floor and then come to some kind of resolution."

That's not really how the special session worked. Legislative leadership and the Governor made a deal in advance and pushed it through the process without amendments. Such action makes it difficult for legislators that are not in leadership to get anything they want looked at.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The speed of the special session of the Legislature this spring and the effects of COVID-19 on the regular session suggest that the Legislature could accomplish its work in less time, but Ed Berger doesn't want to throw the baby out with the bathwater."I think we could do it in fewer days," State Senator Ed Berger said. "This was a relatively short legislative session. We adjourned early because of the COVID-19 epidemic. That was on March 19th and didn't come back then until May. I think we could get things done a little quicker."Berger is still a fan of the legislative process, though, even though most of that was worked around in the special session in the interest of speed."You have to have a process that allows complete vetting of legislation," Berger said. "I think that's really an important component of the process. We have to have input from all sides. We have to hear all arguments. Lots of times, even with this thorough vetting process that we have, there are unintended consequences of legislation."The hope is that the normal deliberative process helps avoid some of those consequences."The real work happens in the committee environment," Berger said. "A legislator relies a lot on what happens in those committees. We take that committee recommendation and we challenge that committee with questions from the floor and then come to some kind of resolution."That's not really how the special session worked. Legislative leadership and the Governor made a deal in advance and pushed it through the process without amendments. Such action makes it difficult for legislators that are not in leadership to get anything they want looked at.

In spite of special session speed, Berger says process is important


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Over 200 Reno County drivers were pulled over as part of the Click-It or Ticket campaign in May.

The Sheriff's Office reported on Facebook Tuesday that 223 seat belt violations were written to adults, one child restraint violation for a child between 4 and 13 years old, eight driver's license violations, one insurance violation and a DUI arrest.

The campaign from KDOT via the National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration paid for 65 hours of enforcement between May 18th and 31st.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Over 200 Reno County drivers were pulled over as part of the Click-It or Ticket campaign in May.The Sheriff's Office reported on Facebook Tuesday that 223 seat belt violations were written to adults, one child restraint violation for a child between 4 and 13 years old, eight driver's license violations, one insurance violation and a DUI arrest.The campaign from KDOT via the National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration paid for 65 hours of enforcement between May 18th and 31st.

Over 200 citations written during seatbelt campaign in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The assessed valuations for the county increased over last year by a small margin.

The 2020 county total assessed value came in at $615,855,000. The city of Hutchinson assessed valuation for 2020 is $313,571,000. The increase in funding for Hutchinson will be around $313,000 while the increase for the county translates to about $800,000 at the current mill levy for both entities.

How that helps the city and county in the next budget cycle remains uncertain. County Administrator Randy Partington says they are still looking at between $1 million and $2 million in cuts for 2021.

Partington says they will hear budget presentations for the county department heads on June 25 and June 26.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592063945477.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The assessed valuations for the county increased over last year by a small margin.The 2020 county total assessed value came in at $615,855,000. The city of Hutchinson assessed valuation for 2020 is $313,571,000. The increase in funding for Hutchinson will be around $313,000 while the increase for the county translates to about $800,000 at the current mill levy for both entities.How that helps the city and county in the next budget cycle remains uncertain. County Administrator Randy Partington says they are still looking at between $1 million and $2 million in cuts for 2021.Partington says they will hear budget presentations for the county department heads on June 25 and June 26.&nbsp;

Assessed values increase in Reno County

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Cutting is underway in Reno County as the hot, windy weather has pushed the wheat harvest into central Kansas.&nbsp;

The Farmers Co-Op in Pretty Prairie reported a steady run of trucks Monday with numbers looking good at 62 to 64 pounds per bushel and moisture run from 9% to 11%.

In Halstead, cutting is still sporadic, but officials report test weights are running more than 60 pounds per bushel and the quality appears to be good.&nbsp;

At the Mid Kansas Co-Op in Castleton, test weights are also above 60 and moisture is running from 9% to 13%. The MKC in Haven reports no activity so far as high moisture content was keeping farmers out of fields.

With hot, windy weather for the next couple of days followed by chances of rain, cutting is expected to ramp up quickly.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589382928360.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Cutting is underway in Reno County as the hot, windy weather has pushed the wheat harvest into central Kansas.&nbsp;The Farmers Co-Op in Pretty Prairie reported a steady run of trucks Monday with numbers looking good at 62 to 64 pounds per bushel and moisture run from 9% to 11%.In Halstead, cutting is still sporadic, but officials report test weights are running more than 60 pounds per bushel and the quality appears to be good.&nbsp;At the Mid Kansas Co-Op in Castleton, test weights are also above 60 and moisture is running from 9% to 13%. The MKC in Haven reports no activity so far as high moisture content was keeping farmers out of fields.With hot, windy weather for the next couple of days followed by chances of rain, cutting is expected to ramp up quickly.

Harvest underway in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System received a major donation of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy donated nearly $27,000 in PPE as part of its efforts to help the communities where it operates in the battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

The donation included approximately 6,700 KN95 masks, 5,400 three-ply masks and 243 isolation gowns.

Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS, said the gift could not be timelier as Hutch Regional continues its efforts to contain the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. “Getting enough PPE to protect our patient care team during the crisis has been a huge, uphill battle,” Johnson said. “The generous gift from Siemens Gamesa will help us to safely treat patients and keep our team healthy. We are very grateful for the generous donation.”

In a statement issued by Siemens Gamesa, the company said: “The impact of the crisis has been felt across the world and is likely to continue for some time. In response, Siemens Gamesa has launched a social campaign to allow its teams to help in the global fight against the pandemic.”

Doug Fulton, plant manager at the Hutchinson facility, lauded the contribution made by the company’s plant in Hutchinson. “As a company, we will play our part to help combat the crisis and put us back on the path to creating a sustainable future,” Fulton said.

Johnson added: “The donation of PPE will positively affect many people in our community. Good corporate citizenship is a part of the company’s mission and Hutchinson is a major beneficiary.”

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System received a major donation of personal protective equipment (PPE).Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy donated nearly $27,000 in PPE as part of its efforts to help the communities where it operates in the battle against the coronavirus pandemic.The donation included approximately 6,700 KN95 masks, 5,400 three-ply masks and 243 isolation gowns.Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS, said the gift could not be timelier as Hutch Regional continues its efforts to contain the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. “Getting enough PPE to protect our patient care team during the crisis has been a huge, uphill battle,” Johnson said. “The generous gift from Siemens Gamesa will help us to safely treat patients and keep our team healthy. We are very grateful for the generous donation.”In a statement issued by Siemens Gamesa, the company said: “The impact of the crisis has been felt across the world and is likely to continue for some time. In response, Siemens Gamesa has launched a social campaign to allow its teams to help in the global fight against the pandemic.”Doug Fulton, plant manager at the Hutchinson facility, lauded the contribution made by the company’s plant in Hutchinson. “As a company, we will play our part to help combat the crisis and put us back on the path to creating a sustainable future,” Fulton said.Johnson added: “The donation of PPE will positively affect many people in our community. Good corporate citizenship is a part of the company’s mission and Hutchinson is a major beneficiary.”

Siemens Gamesa makes large PPE donation to HRHS

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Motorists who use Woodie Seat Freeway will have some construction work to deal with this week.

Work crews will be doing maintenance on the overpass Wednesday and Thursday, weather permitting. During the work, the southbound lanes will be closed for chip seal of the roadway. The chip seal will also close off the westbound off-ramp for chip sealing. The northbound lanes of the freeway and the eastbound off-ramp will stay open. Other locations of the freeway will be closed periodically during the work.&nbsp;

All of the freeway should be open by Friday. If you have any questions about this or any other city project, contact Public Works at 694-1900.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Motorists who use Woodie Seat Freeway will have some construction work to deal with this week.Work crews will be doing maintenance on the overpass Wednesday and Thursday, weather permitting. During the work, the southbound lanes will be closed for chip seal of the roadway. The chip seal will also close off the westbound off-ramp for chip sealing. The northbound lanes of the freeway and the eastbound off-ramp will stay open. Other locations of the freeway will be closed periodically during the work.&nbsp;All of the freeway should be open by Friday. If you have any questions about this or any other city project, contact Public Works at 694-1900.

Woodie Seat maintenance begins Wednesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As of noon Monday, there are four active cases of COVID-19 among Reno County residents. Two of those are recovering out of state. Two others associated with community spread are currently fulfilling their required quarantine. Forty-six patients have recovered.

Currently Reno County has ran 2,104 tests with 2,055 negatives for a positive case rate of 2.33%. A total of 3.35% of Reno County has been tested thus far.

Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As of noon Monday, there are four active cases of COVID-19 among Reno County residents. Two of those are recovering out of state. Two others associated with community spread are currently fulfilling their required quarantine. Forty-six patients have recovered.Currently Reno County has ran 2,104 tests with 2,055 negatives for a positive case rate of 2.33%. A total of 3.35% of Reno County has been tested thus far.Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

Four active cases of COVID-19 attributed to Reno County; two recovering in the county

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It’s a light agenda for the Reno County Commissioners Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Board will take action on the appointment of Jackson Swearer as the county representative to the South Central Kansas Economic Development District. He replaces Jim Seitnater. The Board will also take time to discuss several maintenance projects for the courthouse.&nbsp;

The building has suffered some light damage due to the seismic activity over the past couple of years. The courthouse also needs windows replaced at a cost of more than $1.5 million.&nbsp;

The Commissioners will also get the weekly reports on the pandemic and pass the consent agenda. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It’s a light agenda for the Reno County Commissioners Tuesday.&nbsp;The Board will take action on the appointment of Jackson Swearer as the county representative to the South Central Kansas Economic Development District. He replaces Jim Seitnater. The Board will also take time to discuss several maintenance projects for the courthouse.&nbsp;The building has suffered some light damage due to the seismic activity over the past couple of years. The courthouse also needs windows replaced at a cost of more than $1.5 million.&nbsp;The Commissioners will also get the weekly reports on the pandemic and pass the consent agenda. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Co Commission to discuss courthouse maintenance projects


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Thanks to the generosity of Eagle Radio listeners and Hutch Post readers, CASA of Reno County will receive over $5000.

Listeners and readers contributed $2638 for the Visions of Hope Radiothon last week. The Schmidt Foundation will match that contribution with its own $2638, for a total of $5276 to be contributed.

Reno County CASA is a non-profit that works directly with the court system, with the juvenile courts. Volunteers become the eyes and ears of the court and make recommendations to the court for what could be in the child's best interest.

The juvenile court system in Reno County typically hears over 300 cases of suspected abuse and neglect a year.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Thanks to the generosity of Eagle Radio listeners and Hutch Post readers, CASA of Reno County will receive over $5000.Listeners and readers contributed $2638 for the Visions of Hope Radiothon last week. The Schmidt Foundation will match that contribution with its own $2638, for a total of $5276 to be contributed.Reno County CASA is a non-profit that works directly with the court system, with the juvenile courts. Volunteers become the eyes and ears of the court and make recommendations to the court for what could be in the child's best interest.The juvenile court system in Reno County typically hears over 300 cases of suspected abuse and neglect a year.

Reno County CASA to receive over $5000

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has released details of how they will distribute their share of the CDBG-CV grant money. The county received $132,000 to help small businesses that employ low to medium-income households.

To be eligible the business must be in the county, have 50 or fewer employees, and must have at least 51% of their workforce in the low to medium income bracket.

The county is making $5,000 available to employers with a workforce of five or fewer and $10,000 to those with a workforce of five to 50.

Grant funds are to be used for working capital such as employee wages, rent, mortgage payments, utilities, and to purchase up to 60 days of inventory needed to reopen the business. The County anticipates being able to assist approximately 10 small businesses within Reno County with the funds awarded to the County.

Applications and more information can be found at renogov.org. The deadline to submit an application for assistance is July 2.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has released details of how they will distribute their share of the CDBG-CV grant money. The county received $132,000 to help small businesses that employ low to medium-income households.To be eligible the business must be in the county, have 50 or fewer employees, and must have at least 51% of their workforce in the low to medium income bracket.The county is making $5,000 available to employers with a workforce of five or fewer and $10,000 to those with a workforce of five to 50.Grant funds are to be used for working capital such as employee wages, rent, mortgage payments, utilities, and to purchase up to 60 days of inventory needed to reopen the business. The County anticipates being able to assist approximately 10 small businesses within Reno County with the funds awarded to the County.Applications and more information can be found at renogov.org. The deadline to submit an application for assistance is July 2.

County CDBG-CV applications now available


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Wow, we blew right through spring and are bearing down on summer, and in the Farm Bureau world that means annual meeting time is right around the corner. Annual meetings are vital in the life of our organization and something many members look forward to. It is a time to conduct the business of our organization but also a time to fellowship with our neighbors and friends.

Just like our policy positions, the decision on each county’s annual meeting is left up to the grassroots level and your local board is deciding what your meeting will look like this year.

Some may decide the risk is low in their county and continue with their traditional annual meeting, and that is fine. However, many of our local boards will decide a different mode of annual meeting needs to happen this year. It may be a business only meeting, meant to lessen the time we spend together and therefore lower the risk of passing a virus on. I suppose some may take the route of a ”virtual” annual meeting utilizing the technology available to us. That is the lowest risk option and may be the best in some areas.

No matter what type of meeting your county decides to have, you can rest assured  the board did it with the health and wellbeing of their fellow farmers and ranchers in mind. It may not look like the annual meeting we are used to, and that may be a cause of disappointment. Hopefully it will be a one-time measure. You can rest assured that the decision was made after a great deal of thought and planning with the best interest of everyone in mind.

On a similar note, continue to check in with us on news about Kansas Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting. That seems like a long way down the road, but I am sure that December will be here before we know it. Just know your state staff and board members are also watching the situation closely and developing alternate plans with the hope they’re not needed. I promise you when a decision is made, it will be just like the one at your county level and have the best interest and safety of all members in mind.

We have never done anything like this before because we have never seen anything like this before. Patience is a virtue, and we want to make sure that all members are safe and healthy. Hang in there, take the proper precautions and we will all make it through this healthy and happy and ready for annual meetings in 2021. It will be worth it.

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

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Wow, we blew right through spring and are bearing down on summer, and in the Farm Bureau world that means annual meeting time is right around the corner. Annual meetings are vital in the life of our organization and something many members look forward to. It is a time to conduct the business of our organization but also a time to fellowship with our neighbors and friends.Just like our policy positions, the decision on each county’s annual meeting is left up to the grassroots level and your local board is deciding what your meeting will look like this year.Some may decide the risk is low in their county and continue with their traditional annual meeting, and that is fine. However, many of our local boards will decide a different mode of annual meeting needs to happen this year. It may be a business only meeting, meant to lessen the time we spend together and therefore lower the risk of passing a virus on. I suppose some may take the route of a ”virtual” annual meeting utilizing the technology available to us. That is the lowest risk option and may be the best in some areas.No matter what type of meeting your county decides to have, you can rest assured the board did it with the health and wellbeing of their fellow farmers and ranchers in mind. It may not look like the annual meeting we are used to, and that may be a cause of disappointment. Hopefully it will be a one-time measure. You can rest assured that the decision was made after a great deal of thought and planning with the best interest of everyone in mind.On a similar note, continue to check in with us on news about Kansas Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting. That seems like a long way down the road, but I am sure that December will be here before we know it. Just know your state staff and board members are also watching the situation closely and developing alternate plans with the hope they’re not needed. I promise you when a decision is made, it will be just like the one at your county level and have the best interest and safety of all members in mind.We have never done anything like this before because we have never seen anything like this before. Patience is a virtue, and we want to make sure that all members are safe and healthy. Hang in there, take the proper precautions and we will all make it through this healthy and happy and ready for annual meetings in 2021. It will be worth it."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Patience and Precaution

Summer reading at Hutchinson Public Library is underway. The library encourages you to download the Reader Zone app, set up your account and add your readers.

Goal 1 – Read 10 books or for 10 hours. Prizes earned = art supplies! And, you can nominate hair colors for Children’s Services Staff to dye their hair!

Goal 2 – Read 25 books or for 25 hours. Prizes earned = a free book and summer reading tote bag!

Goal 3 – Read 50 books or 50 hours Prizes earned = a toy, and your name will be entered in a chance to win a 3 month subcription box! PLUS, you will have a vote for the top three colors picked for library staff to color their hair!

Log titles you read in the Reader Zone app. Your name will be added to a weekly prize drawing. Read 10 books by August 15, and you will be entered for a chance to win one of three grand prizes.

Paper reading logs are also available upon request. You can call for a log at 620-663-5441.

Download Reader Zone from <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.readerzone2.app&amp;hl=en_US">Google Play</a>&nbsp;or the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/reader-zone/id1474405363">App Store</a>&nbsp;or go <a href="http://readerzone.com/">here</a> on your desktop.

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 </figure>Summer reading at Hutchinson Public Library is underway. The library encourages you to download the Reader Zone app, set up your account and add your readers.Use the code 87680 to get started!Children's ProgramGoal 1 – Read 10 books or for 10 hours. Prizes earned = art supplies! And, you can nominate hair colors for Children’s Services Staff to dye their hair!Goal 2 – Read 25 books or for 25 hours. Prizes earned = a free book and summer reading tote bag!Goal 3 – Read 50 books or 50 hours Prizes earned = a toy, and your name will be entered in a chance to win a 3 month subcription box! PLUS, you will have a vote for the top three colors picked for library staff to color their hair!Adults and Young AdultsLog titles you read in the Reader Zone app. Your name will be added to a weekly prize drawing. Read 10 books by August 15, and you will be entered for a chance to win one of three grand prizes.Paper reading logs are also available upon request. You can call for a log at 620-663-5441.Download Reader Zone from <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.readerzone2.app&amp;hl=en_US">Google Play</a>&nbsp;or the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/reader-zone/id1474405363">App Store</a>&nbsp;or go <a href="http://readerzone.com/">here</a> on your desktop.

Summer reading program going at Hutchinson Public Library


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The high school tennis coach at Hutchinson Trinity will not be renewed after a racist post on Facebook. 

According to the school on Saturday, after an investigation, Thomas Harris will not be renewed. 

"We stand by our mission statement at Trinity Catholic, which is to unite parish, home, and school into a Catholic learning community, dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth, while forming stewards and leaders who value diversity and service to God and society."

Harris posted a meme using a racial slur on his personal Facebook page. 2020 was his first season coaching boys and girls tennis at Trinity. He is a 2006 Trinity graduate.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The high school tennis coach at Hutchinson Trinity will not be renewed after a racist post on Facebook. According to the school on Saturday, after an investigation, Thomas Harris will not be renewed. "We stand by our mission statement at Trinity Catholic, which is to unite parish, home, and school into a Catholic learning community, dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth, while forming stewards and leaders who value diversity and service to God and society."Harris posted a meme using a racial slur on his personal Facebook page. 2020 was his first season coaching boys and girls tennis at Trinity. He is a 2006 Trinity graduate.

Trinity Catholic will not renew tennis coach's contract


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Even though COVID-19 has taken SmallvilleCon for 2020, the City of Hutchinson is still doing its annual proclamation as part of its regular agenda for Tuesday. 

SmallvilleCon will return June 19 and 20 of 2021 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

Also on the agenda for Tuesday, an appointment of David Abel Sotelo Holguin to the Hutchinson Human Relations Commission, an approval of a contract with the Friends of the Zoo for reimbursement of seasonal rehabilitation assistant expense, an approval of an addendum to a contract with Reno County for RCAT benches in the city through 2024, an approval of the City's 2019 Audit and reports of City officials.

The meeting is Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. at City Hall and can be watched live on the City's YouTube channel.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Even though COVID-19 has taken SmallvilleCon for 2020, the City of Hutchinson is still doing its annual proclamation as part of its regular agenda for Tuesday. SmallvilleCon will return June 19 and 20 of 2021 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.Also on the agenda for Tuesday, an appointment of David Abel Sotelo Holguin to the Hutchinson Human Relations Commission, an approval of a contract with the Friends of the Zoo for reimbursement of seasonal rehabilitation assistant expense, an approval of an addendum to a contract with Reno County for RCAT benches in the city through 2024, an approval of the City's 2019 Audit and reports of City officials.The meeting is Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. at City Hall and can be watched live on the City's YouTube channel.

City still doing Smallville proclamation even with cancellation Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A Moundridge man was killed in an accident at Avenue G and K-61 Saturday night.

According to Hutchinson Police, 78-year-old Glen V. Koch of Moundridge was killed when his motorcycle was struck by a vehicle driven by 70-year-old Sophia Mendoza of Hutchinson.

The report was filed just after 8 p.m. Saturday.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A Moundridge man was killed in an accident at Avenue G and K-61 Saturday night.According to Hutchinson Police, 78-year-old Glen V. Koch of Moundridge was killed when his motorcycle was struck by a vehicle driven by 70-year-old Sophia Mendoza of Hutchinson.The report was filed just after 8 p.m. Saturday.

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