<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/384560e2-8f76-45cc-a983-2409862eb438">A Health Order was issued by the Reno County Interim Health Officer to go into effect for one month beginning on Wednesday, November 18.</a>

The order purports to limit gatherings to 10 people, but there is a full page of exceptions that allow for almost all types of gatherings, provided masks are worn and social distancing is practiced. The full text of the order is below.

The below was copied from an email from Reno County officials and does not include the signature of any officials, merely the text of the order.

This Emergency Public Health Order is effective the 18th day of November, 2020, at 12:01 A.M. to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus disease COVID 19 pandemic in Reno County, Kansas pursuant to the authority of K.S.A. 65-119 and K.S.A. 65-202 and other applicable laws and regulations.

WHEREAS, the local Health Officer is authorized and required, pursuant to K.S.A. 65-119 and K.S.A. 65-202 to immediately exercise and maintain supervision over known or suspected cases of any infectious or contagious disease during its continuance, and to issue orders seeing that all such cases are properly handled and that the provisions of the Kansas public health laws as to isolation, quarantine and disinfection are duly enforced; and

WHEREAS, the local Health Officer is appointed by the Board of County Commissioners and is authorized to prohibit public gatherings when necessary for the control of any and all infectious diseases, pursuant to K.S.A 65-119; and

WHEREAS, on May 26, 2020, the Governor of the State of Kansas declared a STATE OF DISASTER PROCLAMATION in order “to protect Kansas from the economic consequences of COVID-19 and the imminent threat of future outbreaks” and issued Executive Order 20-52 on July 2, 2020, a statewide Order pertaining to the wearing of masks or other face coverings, which Proclamation and Order have been extended and remain in effect; and

WHEREAS, since March 16, 2020 through November 16, 2020 there has occurred in Reno County thirty-three (33) confirmed deaths from COVID-19, 3,534 positive cases, 731 current community active positive cases, 146 total COVID-19 Hospitalizations, and 57 total COVID-19 admissions to its Intensive Care Unit; and

WHEREAS, in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Reno County Local Health Officer, all recommend implementation of community mitigation strategies to increase containment of the virus, including restricting large gatherings and social distancing in smaller gatherings; and

WHEREAS, to reduce the spread of COVID-19, measures that are recommended and considered effective by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Reno County Local Health Officer, all recommend, among other measures, covering one’s mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when in public settings; and

WHEREAS, because the increased spread of COVID-19 also presents a serious threat to the continued effective operation of the local economy, the Reno County Commissioners along with the Reno County Interim Health Officer seek to assist businesses being prosperous and continuing to keep job stability within Reno County; and

WHEREAS, wearing a mask in public is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect each other, help keep our businesses open and our economy running, and keep children in school; and

WHEREAS, in general, large public gatherings lead to heightened risks of large-scale COVID-19 person-to-person transmission; and

WHEREAS, the intent of this Order is not to deprive any person or entity of any rights protected by the United States Constitution, the Kansas Constitution, or any other law, but merely to set forth restrictions which would best protect Reno County residents against the community spread of COVID-19; and

WHEREAS, there are certain activities where the wearing of masks and face coverings is exempted pursuant to the terms of this Order where customers may be in the proximity of others for extended periods of time (such as when customers may be eating, drinking, or exercising), which means such activities present a heightened risk of a person infected with COVID-19 transmitting it to another person; and

WHEREAS, for the aforementioned and other reasons, and in recognition and furtherance of the County’s responsibility to provide for and ensure the health, safety, security, and welfare of the people of Reno County, requiring that masks or other face coverings be worn in public, limiting the size of public gatherings, ensuring social distancing, and placing certain other restrictions on activities are all measures that can be taken to slow and reduce the spread of COVID-19.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDERED by the Interim Local Health Officer, pursuant to the above authorities, that:

1. Effective at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 all public or private mass gatherings as defined below, are restricted within the border of Reno County.

a. Gatherings within a confined space are restricted to no more than “10” people if social distancing cannot be maintained.

i. See Section 2 for exemptions pertaining to gatherings where government operations, religious gatherings, businesses, schools, medical facilities, arenas, and stadiums are outlined. 

2. The following activities or facilities are exempt from the prohibition of this order:

a. Operations of the United States Government;

i. Military and National Guard facilities

b. Religious gatherings, as long as attendees engage in appropriate social distancing;

c. Public, private, or charter schools for instructional purposes;

d. Any facility being used as part of a government or community response to a natural disaster;

e. Public buildings where large numbers of people are present but are generally not within 6 ft. of one another for more than 10 minutes;

f. Public and private businesses; provided, reasonable efforts must be made to social distance by 6 feet in work and break areas.

h. Shopping malls and other retail establishments where large numbers of people are present but are generally not within 6 ft. of one another for more than 10 minutes;

i. Arenas where large numbers of people are present but are generally not within 6 ft. of one another for more than 10 minutes, and are able to maintain social distancing when seated by more than 6 ft. when not seated with their family units;

j. Outdoor stadiums where large numbers of people are present but are generally not within 6 feet of one another for more than 10 minutes and are able to social distance when seated by more than 6 ft. when not seated with their family units.

o Masks: Follow the governor’s mask order and respect businesses that are enforcing this mandate in their businesses. Have masks available for customers, and/or employees to wear mask when working in a public location or working around co-workers if they are not able to social distance by more than 6 ft.

o Telework: Strongly encouraged for all employees when possible.

o On-site Operations: Avoid large gatherings of employees in groups of more than 10 where social distancing protocols cannot be maintained except for infrequent or incidental moments 

o Potentially Sick Employees: Any employees exhibiting symptoms should be required to stay at home and asked to call their health care provider.

o Business Travel: Minimize nonessential travel.

o Retail Stores: Due to the transitory nature of individuals within retail stores, their activities shall not be considered mass gatherings. However, retail stores shall be limited to 50 percent of the capacity permitted under the applicable fire code.

o Restaurant and/or bar, night club: Require masks upon entering and until seated, individuals at the same table may be located within 6 feet of one another. However, there shall not be more than 10 individuals at any such table. Also, all tables and individuals seated at a table shall be located at least 6 feet from any other tables and individuals seated at such tables.

o Fitness centers and health clubs: Require masks, social distancing and must frequently clean common touchpoints, which include but are not limited to benches, seating, and lockers

o Nail salons, barber shops, hair salons, tattoo parlors and other personal services businesses: where 6 feet of social distancing is not feasible should require mask and serve customers for pre-scheduled appointments or with online check-in with waiting in car until called in

3. Recreational and youth organized sports tournaments, games, practices, and related events may still occur, but attendance shall be limited to a maximum of 2 attendees per participant and such activities shall remain subject to the social distancing and mass gathering provisions. These provisions shall not apply to any collegiate sporting events and sporting events governed by Kansas State High School Activities Association and/or school boards.

This Order shall become effective as of 12:01 A.M. on November 18, 2020 and shall expire on December 18, 2020 unless amended or extended by further local Public Health Officer’s Order. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/384560e2-8f76-45cc-a983-2409862eb438">A Health Order was issued by the Reno County Interim Health Officer to go into effect for one month beginning on Wednesday, November 18.</a> The order purports to limit gatherings to 10 people, but there is a full page of exceptions that allow for almost all types of gatherings, provided masks are worn and social distancing is practiced. The full text of the order is below.The below was copied from an email from Reno County officials and does not include the signature of any officials, merely the text of the order.This Emergency Public Health Order is effective the 18th day of November, 2020, at 12:01 A.M. to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus disease COVID 19 pandemic in Reno County, Kansas pursuant to the authority of K.S.A. 65-119 and K.S.A. 65-202 and other applicable laws and regulations.WHEREAS, the local Health Officer is authorized and required, pursuant to K.S.A. 65-119 and K.S.A. 65-202 to immediately exercise and maintain supervision over known or suspected cases of any infectious or contagious disease during its continuance, and to issue orders seeing that all such cases are properly handled and that the provisions of the Kansas public health laws as to isolation, quarantine and disinfection are duly enforced; andWHEREAS, the local Health Officer is appointed by the Board of County Commissioners and is authorized to prohibit public gatherings when necessary for the control of any and all infectious diseases, pursuant to K.S.A 65-119; andWHEREAS, on May 26, 2020, the Governor of the State of Kansas declared a STATE OF DISASTER PROCLAMATION in order “to protect Kansas from the economic consequences of COVID-19 and the imminent threat of future outbreaks” and issued Executive Order 20-52 on July 2, 2020, a statewide Order pertaining to the wearing of masks or other face coverings, which Proclamation and Order have been extended and remain in effect; andWHEREAS, since March 16, 2020 through November 16, 2020 there has occurred in Reno County thirty-three (33) confirmed deaths from COVID-19, 3,534 positive cases, 731 current community active positive cases, 146 total COVID-19 Hospitalizations, and 57 total COVID-19 admissions to its Intensive Care Unit; andWHEREAS, in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Reno County Local Health Officer, all recommend implementation of community mitigation strategies to increase containment of the virus, including restricting large gatherings and social distancing in smaller gatherings; andWHEREAS, to reduce the spread of COVID-19, measures that are recommended and considered effective by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Reno County Local Health Officer, all recommend, among other measures, covering one’s mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when in public settings; andWHEREAS, because the increased spread of COVID-19 also presents a serious threat to the continued effective operation of the local economy, the Reno County Commissioners along with the Reno County Interim Health Officer seek to assist businesses being prosperous and continuing to keep job stability within Reno County; andWHEREAS, wearing a mask in public is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect each other, help keep our businesses open and our economy running, and keep children in school; andWHEREAS, in general, large public gatherings lead to heightened risks of large-scale COVID-19 person-to-person transmission; andWHEREAS, the intent of this Order is not to deprive any person or entity of any rights protected by the United States Constitution, the Kansas Constitution, or any other law, but merely to set forth restrictions which would best protect Reno County residents against the community spread of COVID-19; andWHEREAS, there are certain activities where the wearing of masks and face coverings is exempted pursuant to the terms of this Order where customers may be in the proximity of others for extended periods of time (such as when customers may be eating, drinking, or exercising), which means such activities present a heightened risk of a person infected with COVID-19 transmitting it to another person; andWHEREAS, for the aforementioned and other reasons, and in recognition and furtherance of the County’s responsibility to provide for and ensure the health, safety, security, and welfare of the people of Reno County, requiring that masks or other face coverings be worn in public, limiting the size of public gatherings, ensuring social distancing, and placing certain other restrictions on activities are all measures that can be taken to slow and reduce the spread of COVID-19.NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDERED by the Interim Local Health Officer, pursuant to the above authorities, that:1. Effective at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 all public or private mass gatherings as defined below, are restricted within the border of Reno County.a. Gatherings within a confined space are restricted to no more than “10” people if social distancing cannot be maintained.i. See Section 2 for exemptions pertaining to gatherings where government operations, religious gatherings, businesses, schools, medical facilities, arenas, and stadiums are outlined. 2. The following activities or facilities are exempt from the prohibition of this order:a. Operations of the United States Government;i. Military and National Guard facilitiesii. Department of Correctionsiii. Law Enforcementiv. Polling Placesb. Religious gatherings, as long as attendees engage in appropriate social distancing;c. Public, private, or charter schools for instructional purposes;d. Any facility being used as part of a government or community response to a natural disaster;e. Public buildings where large numbers of people are present but are generally not within 6 ft. of one another for more than 10 minutes;f. Public and private businesses; provided, reasonable efforts must be made to social distance by 6 feet in work and break areas.g. Hospitals and medical facilities;i. Long Term Care facilitiesii. Assisted Livingh. Shopping malls and other retail establishments where large numbers of people are present but are generally not within 6 ft. of one another for more than 10 minutes;i. Arenas where large numbers of people are present but are generally not within 6 ft. of one another for more than 10 minutes, and are able to maintain social distancing when seated by more than 6 ft. when not seated with their family units;j. Outdoor stadiums where large numbers of people are present but are generally not within 6 feet of one another for more than 10 minutes and are able to social distance when seated by more than 6 ft. when not seated with their family units.▪ Guidance for Businesso Masks: Follow the governor’s mask order and respect businesses that are enforcing this mandate in their businesses. Have masks available for customers, and/or employees to wear mask when working in a public location or working around co-workers if they are not able to social distance by more than 6 ft.o Telework: Strongly encouraged for all employees when possible.o On-site Operations: Avoid large gatherings of employees in groups of more than 10 where social distancing protocols cannot be maintained except for infrequent or incidental moments o Potentially Sick Employees: Any employees exhibiting symptoms should be required to stay at home and asked to call their health care provider.o Business Travel: Minimize nonessential travel.o Retail Stores: Due to the transitory nature of individuals within retail stores, their activities shall not be considered mass gatherings. However, retail stores shall be limited to 50 percent of the capacity permitted under the applicable fire code.o Restaurant and/or bar, night club: Require masks upon entering and until seated, individuals at the same table may be located within 6 feet of one another. However, there shall not be more than 10 individuals at any such table. Also, all tables and individuals seated at a table shall be located at least 6 feet from any other tables and individuals seated at such tables.o Fitness centers and health clubs: Require masks, social distancing and must frequently clean common touchpoints, which include but are not limited to benches, seating, and lockerso Nail salons, barber shops, hair salons, tattoo parlors and other personal services businesses: where 6 feet of social distancing is not feasible should require mask and serve customers for pre-scheduled appointments or with online check-in with waiting in car until called in3. Recreational and youth organized sports tournaments, games, practices, and related events may still occur, but attendance shall be limited to a maximum of 2 attendees per participant and such activities shall remain subject to the social distancing and mass gathering provisions. These provisions shall not apply to any collegiate sporting events and sporting events governed by Kansas State High School Activities Association and/or school boards.This Order shall become effective as of 12:01 A.M. on November 18, 2020 and shall expire on December 18, 2020 unless amended or extended by further local Public Health Officer’s Order.

Text of Emergency Public Health Order 20-04

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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

NICKERSON,
Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board approved an extended Christmas break
for students during Monday’s regular meeting.

With the
change, Christmas break will start Monday, Dec. 21, adding three days. Any snow
days would then be remote learning days.&nbsp;The break will give students and
staff two full weeks of vacation.

Also Monday,
the board approved restrictions for winter sports activities. The restrictions
will be much the same as they are for fall sports. No spectators will be
allowed in middle school activities and all high school events will provide two
tickets per athlete and cheerleader. There will be no pep band, no concession
stands and no Panther Pride gear for sale. 

And the
Board approved spending funds to make improvements to the Nickerson City Park
softball field so the teams have a local area to practice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON,
Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board approved an extended Christmas break
for students during Monday’s regular meeting.With the
change, Christmas break will start Monday, Dec. 21, adding three days. Any snow
days would then be remote learning days.&nbsp;The break will give students and
staff two full weeks of vacation.Also Monday,
the board approved restrictions for winter sports activities. The restrictions
will be much the same as they are for fall sports. No spectators will be
allowed in middle school activities and all high school events will provide two
tickets per athlete and cheerleader. There will be no pep band, no concession
stands and no Panther Pride gear for sale. And the
Board approved spending funds to make improvements to the Nickerson City Park
softball field so the teams have a local area to practice.

USD 309 approves extended Christmas break

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler School district has been trying to sell off the Obee Elementary School ever since it closed its doors six years ago.

On Monday the USD 313 Board gave approval to an offer from T-Real Estate to purchase the small school building just east of the airport for $55,000.

The district had been trying to sell the building after it was closed and students were moved to other areas of the district. The move came when the new Plum Creek Elementary School opened.

With few takers the district then decided to use the facility as a day care center. But the amount of work needed to make that a reality was more than the district wanted to take on. The building was rented out occasionally and at one time a home school group used it for various activities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler School district has been trying to sell off the Obee Elementary School ever since it closed its doors six years ago.On Monday the USD 313 Board gave approval to an offer from T-Real Estate to purchase the small school building just east of the airport for $55,000.The district had been trying to sell the building after it was closed and students were moved to other areas of the district. The move came when the new Plum Creek Elementary School opened.With few takers the district then decided to use the facility as a day care center. But the amount of work needed to make that a reality was more than the district wanted to take on. The building was rented out occasionally and at one time a home school group used it for various activities.

USD 313 Board approves offer to sell Obee building

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Magistrate Judge Daniel Gilligan has been re-elected to a
position with the Kansas District Magistrate Judges Association.

The
organization, which is open to all state district magistrate court judges,
elected officers to serve in the coming year during a virtual conference for
judges in October.

Gilligan
will serve another term as the organization's treasurer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559617481129.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Magistrate Judge Daniel Gilligan has been re-elected to a
position with the Kansas District Magistrate Judges Association.The
organization, which is open to all state district magistrate court judges,
elected officers to serve in the coming year during a virtual conference for
judges in October.Gilligan
will serve another term as the organization's treasurer.

Gilligan named Treasurer of Kansas Magistrate Judges Association

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council had mixed feelings on a proposal from Reno
County to take two rural sewer districts into the city’s waste water system. 

Rural sewer
districts 201 and 202 are located in Yoder and at the old naval base. The
County is looking at options for dealing with the aging systems and one
proposal would be to tie into the city’s waste water facility south of
Hutchinson. 

City Manager
Jeff Cantrell expressed some concerns about tying into the rural systems since
some of the area could be considered competition to the city when it comes to
attracting business and industry to the area. &nbsp;It also could use up capacity that could be
used by a new industry in Hutchinson.

Mayor Jade
Piros de Carvalho stated that she would be willing to work with the county to
see if using the city system is a viable solution. Councilmember John Daveline
said he would like to see the county do more study to see if there were other
options available to them. Public Works Director Don Brittain stated that the county
does have other options they are looking at but wanted to approach the city and
get their feelings on the proposal.

If the city
agreed to the proposal it would add 101 new service customers to the water
treatment plant.

Also Tuesday
the Council gave approval on a 4 to 1 vote on a contract with T/B Electric for
upgrades to the Hutchinson Zoo in an amount not to exceed $84,150. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603102823273.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council had mixed feelings on a proposal from Reno
County to take two rural sewer districts into the city’s waste water system. Rural sewer
districts 201 and 202 are located in Yoder and at the old naval base. The
County is looking at options for dealing with the aging systems and one
proposal would be to tie into the city’s waste water facility south of
Hutchinson. City Manager
Jeff Cantrell expressed some concerns about tying into the rural systems since
some of the area could be considered competition to the city when it comes to
attracting business and industry to the area. &nbsp;It also could use up capacity that could be
used by a new industry in Hutchinson.Mayor Jade
Piros de Carvalho stated that she would be willing to work with the county to
see if using the city system is a viable solution. Councilmember John Daveline
said he would like to see the county do more study to see if there were other
options available to them. Public Works Director Don Brittain stated that the county
does have other options they are looking at but wanted to approach the city and
get their feelings on the proposal.If the city
agreed to the proposal it would add 101 new service customers to the water
treatment plant.Also Tuesday
the Council gave approval on a 4 to 1 vote on a contract with T/B Electric for
upgrades to the Hutchinson Zoo in an amount not to exceed $84,150.

City Council with mixed feelings on sewer proposal

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 997 as of Monday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 33.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 321 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 47 active cases, but has been responsible for 9 deaths. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

There are 714 cases in the community at large.

Twenty-seven people are in the hospital. One hundred forty-six total have been hospitalized. Fifty-eight have been admitted to the ICU and 17 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 16.17%, with the overall positive test rate at 23.93%. 23.52% of the population has been tested.

The next community testing date is Tuesday evening from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 997 as of Monday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 33.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 321 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 47 active cases, but has been responsible for 9 deaths. There are 40 active clusters in the county.There are 714 cases in the community at large.Twenty-seven people are in the hospital. One hundred forty-six total have been hospitalized. Fifty-eight have been admitted to the ICU and 17 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 16.17%, with the overall positive test rate at 23.93%. 23.52% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Tuesday evening from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Case count at 997, with 714 in community as of Monday evening

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board approved some
changes to the school calendar during a special meeting held Monday afternoon.

The changes affect both Thanksgiving and Christmas break.
Next week, students will be out of school all day Nov. 25 instead of just a half day. Both were approved by the certified staff last week.

In December, there are two changes. On Dec. 11, school will
be in full session. That was to be an off day, but there will be classes. The
Christmas break will begin two days earlier than scheduled. Students will get
off for the Christmas break after classes Friday, Dec. 18, giving them two full
weeks of Christmas break. Students will
return to class Jan. 4.

One other note, buses No. 22, driven by Kristin Schmidt, and No. 34, driven by Cindy Guffy, will not run on Dec. 11 due to a scheduling conflict. All of the updated information is now available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd313.org/">usd313.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board approved some
changes to the school calendar during a special meeting held Monday afternoon.The changes affect both Thanksgiving and Christmas break.
Next week, students will be out of school all day Nov. 25 instead of just a half day. Both were approved by the certified staff last week.In December, there are two changes. On Dec. 11, school will
be in full session. That was to be an off day, but there will be classes. The
Christmas break will begin two days earlier than scheduled. Students will get
off for the Christmas break after classes Friday, Dec. 18, giving them two full
weeks of Christmas break. Students will
return to class Jan. 4.One other note, buses No. 22, driven by Kristin Schmidt, and No. 34, driven by Cindy Guffy, will not run on Dec. 11 due to a scheduling conflict. All of the updated information is now available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd313.org/">usd313.org</a>.

USD 313 Board approves school calendar changes

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Salvation Army kicked off the Christmas season with the
start of the annual Red Kettle Campaign. Major Paul James and a small group
began the annual season of giving in front of the Sleep Shoppe Monday afternoon.

The pandemic
and the financial hardship it has caused has created an unprecedented need in
the community this Christmas season. 

According to
James, the Salvation Army gave assistance to 807 families and provided gifts to
over 600 children in 2019. In the first two weeks of the sign up period this
year, more than 600 families and 700 children are already on the sign up list.
James says that list keeps growing each day and the phone has not stopped
ringing. 

The goal for
this year is $250,000. The kettles will be at selected stores starting in
the next few days and will be at all locations starting Saturday. There will be
some things different for bell ringers this year. All will wear masks and
gloves and all of them will stand six feet from the kettle.

The Salvation
Army hopes that you will help out this holiday season by dropping your change
and maybe a few dollars into the kettles each time you pass one this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605560375916.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Salvation Army kicked off the Christmas season with the
start of the annual Red Kettle Campaign. Major Paul James and a small group
began the annual season of giving in front of the Sleep Shoppe Monday afternoon.The pandemic
and the financial hardship it has caused has created an unprecedented need in
the community this Christmas season. According to
James, the Salvation Army gave assistance to 807 families and provided gifts to
over 600 children in 2019. In the first two weeks of the sign up period this
year, more than 600 families and 700 children are already on the sign up list.
James says that list keeps growing each day and the phone has not stopped
ringing. The goal for
this year is $250,000. The kettles will be at selected stores starting in
the next few days and will be at all locations starting Saturday. There will be
some things different for bell ringers this year. All will wear masks and
gloves and all of them will stand six feet from the kettle.The Salvation
Army hopes that you will help out this holiday season by dropping your change
and maybe a few dollars into the kettles each time you pass one this year.

Salvation Army kicks off Red Kettle campaign

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The preliminary hearing for a Hutchinson
Correctional Facility employee was continued because he is in quarantine along
with several witnesses and co-defendants. &nbsp;

Twenty-two-year-old Zachary Woods of Newton faces eight
different counts in an effort to smuggle K2 into the facility. Woods faces three
counts of conspiracy, three counts of using a communication device to
distribute drugs, one count of drug distribution and one count of trafficking
contraband into a correctional facility.

According to the complaint, Woods is accused of using three
different women to bring the synthetic marijuana into the facility over a
period of two months.

The hearings for the three women, Esther Davis, Stephanie
Thindiu and Denisha Starnes were also continued.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600357864536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The preliminary hearing for a Hutchinson
Correctional Facility employee was continued because he is in quarantine along
with several witnesses and co-defendants. &nbsp;Twenty-two-year-old Zachary Woods of Newton faces eight
different counts in an effort to smuggle K2 into the facility. Woods faces three
counts of conspiracy, three counts of using a communication device to
distribute drugs, one count of drug distribution and one count of trafficking
contraband into a correctional facility.According to the complaint, Woods is accused of using three
different women to bring the synthetic marijuana into the facility over a
period of two months.The hearings for the three women, Esther Davis, Stephanie
Thindiu and Denisha Starnes were also continued.

Preliminary hearing for HCF prison guard continued

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —There‘s a local group called Hutchinson Street
Cat Society. Their mission is to help recognize and deal with the feral cat
population in the area. 

Over the weekend, the group teamed up with the Hutchinson
Animal Shelter and the K-State Mobile Surgery Unit, to have a "Kitty Catch
Up" TNR Day. Forty-two cats were checked in for their spays and neuters. Two were microchipped, and those were reunited with their families. Due to the event, hundreds upon hundreds of unwanted
kittens will now never be born.

If you see a cat with the tip of the left ear removed,
please know that it has been spayed or neutered, and has a caretaker.

The group also wanted to thank Cause For Paws Inc., for their
donation of additional humane traps to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605558248946.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —There‘s a local group called Hutchinson Street
Cat Society. Their mission is to help recognize and deal with the feral cat
population in the area. Over the weekend, the group teamed up with the Hutchinson
Animal Shelter and the K-State Mobile Surgery Unit, to have a "Kitty Catch
Up" TNR Day. Forty-two cats were checked in for their spays and neuters. Two were microchipped, and those were reunited with their families. Due to the event, hundreds upon hundreds of unwanted
kittens will now never be born.If you see a cat with the tip of the left ear removed,
please know that it has been spayed or neutered, and has a caretaker.The group also wanted to thank Cause For Paws Inc., for their
donation of additional humane traps to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.

Hutchinson Street Cat society holds feral cat event

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department confirms three more local resident deaths with laboratory confirmed COVID-19. This brings the Reno County death toll since the beginning of the pandemic to thirty-three.

Out of respect for the families, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about these individuals.

Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. 

It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department confirms three more local resident deaths with laboratory confirmed COVID-19. This brings the Reno County death toll since the beginning of the pandemic to thirty-three.Out of respect for the families, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about these individuals.Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

Thirty-three now dead according to COVID-19 dashboard

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— This month has traditionally been set
aside by the Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce to recognize farming
and ag related businesses in the area. With the pandemic, that will change for
this month’s Chamber breakfast.

This year’s Farm Family Focus event will be virtual and
is sponsored by ProValue Insurance, on Wednesday, November 18th at
8:30am.&nbsp; The featured speaker will be Rick McNary, founder of Shop Kansas
Farms.&nbsp; The annual event is a chance to thank all Reno County farmers for
the work they do, as well as announce the Farm Focus family of the Year and the
Agri-Business of the Year. 
 
This event will is free to Chamber members, however advance registration is
required. Go to <a href="http://hutchchamber.com">hutchchamber.com</a> for information and to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— This month has traditionally been set
aside by the Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce to recognize farming
and ag related businesses in the area. With the pandemic, that will change for
this month’s Chamber breakfast.This year’s Farm Family Focus event will be virtual and
is sponsored by ProValue Insurance, on Wednesday, November 18th at
8:30am.&nbsp; The featured speaker will be Rick McNary, founder of Shop Kansas
Farms.&nbsp; The annual event is a chance to thank all Reno County farmers for
the work they do, as well as announce the Farm Focus family of the Year and the
Agri-Business of the Year. 
 
This event will is free to Chamber members, however advance registration is
required. Go to <a href="http://hutchchamber.com">hutchchamber.com</a> for information and to register.

Farm Focus chamber event Wednesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — COVID-19 is causing economic concerns even as policymakers continue to wrestle with what restrictions, if any, to put in place beyond the current health order in Reno County.

"Not only do we have people being impacted by COVID and having to quarantine, but it's starting to impact the daily operation of businesses because of people either with COVID that have tested positive, or people who have been around them, who now have to quarantine," said Debra Teufel President &amp; CEO at Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce. "It's causing a lot of absenteeism. There's also the issue with the hybrid situation with schools. Sometimes, if you have small children, you need to be at home and then it makes it where you can't be at work."

Teufel can't say enough that we have got to do something as a community.

"We need everyone to be diligent," Teufel said. "It does become an economic issue. We do not want to have another business shut down. We do not want to have a mandate of a stay at home order, but we want people voluntarily doing their part, washing their hands, wearing masks, limiting their exposure to other people outside of the home, so that we can get this virus under control in the community."

Even if you may not agree with some of the measures, it's still important to respect the needs of the business owners who are trying to stay afloat.

"Businesses up and down Main Street and in the community want their employees to wear masks, but they also want their patrons wearing masks," Teufel said. "If you go to work and then you get exposed by someone who just didn't feel it was necessary to wear a mask into your place of business, it puts that business owner in a really tough position. You want to enforce mask wearing in your doors, but you also don't want to alienate customers."

Teufel is just asking the community to be respectful and take all the possible precautions, whether you believe in mask wearing or not.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580397097469.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — COVID-19 is causing economic concerns even as policymakers continue to wrestle with what restrictions, if any, to put in place beyond the current health order in Reno County."Not only do we have people being impacted by COVID and having to quarantine, but it's starting to impact the daily operation of businesses because of people either with COVID that have tested positive, or people who have been around them, who now have to quarantine," said Debra Teufel President &amp; CEO at Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce. "It's causing a lot of absenteeism. There's also the issue with the hybrid situation with schools. Sometimes, if you have small children, you need to be at home and then it makes it where you can't be at work."Teufel can't say enough that we have got to do something as a community."We need everyone to be diligent," Teufel said. "It does become an economic issue. We do not want to have another business shut down. We do not want to have a mandate of a stay at home order, but we want people voluntarily doing their part, washing their hands, wearing masks, limiting their exposure to other people outside of the home, so that we can get this virus under control in the community."Even if you may not agree with some of the measures, it's still important to respect the needs of the business owners who are trying to stay afloat."Businesses up and down Main Street and in the community want their employees to wear masks, but they also want their patrons wearing masks," Teufel said. "If you go to work and then you get exposed by someone who just didn't feel it was necessary to wear a mask into your place of business, it puts that business owner in a really tough position. You want to enforce mask wearing in your doors, but you also don't want to alienate customers."Teufel is just asking the community to be respectful and take all the possible precautions, whether you believe in mask wearing or not.

Teufel: COVID-19 impacting daily business operations


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United Way annual campaign is continuing forward despite the pandemic.

"We are at 54%," said Lisa Gleason with the United Way of Reno County. "We hit $600,000 on Friday. We're very excited about that. If you remember, our goal is $1,100,000."

Gleason knows that people are continuing to be generous when they are able even in the midst of a tough time economically for some of them.

"The community is amazing," Gleason said. "They have really stepped up and recognized that United Way needs that support probably now more than ever in our eighty some years of fundraising here in this community."

A fundraiser planned for later this week has gone virtual for the United Way of Reno County.

"On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, everybody can shop safely from the comfort of their home and go to kendrascott.com," Gleason said. "If they use the code GIVEBACK-04SQ, a portion of all funds raised on those two days will give back to United Way of Reno County."

United Way of Reno County supports 24 partner agencies in their work throughout the community. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605541075702.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United Way annual campaign is continuing forward despite the pandemic."We are at 54%," said Lisa Gleason with the United Way of Reno County. "We hit $600,000 on Friday. We're very excited about that. If you remember, our goal is $1,100,000."Gleason knows that people are continuing to be generous when they are able even in the midst of a tough time economically for some of them."The community is amazing," Gleason said. "They have really stepped up and recognized that United Way needs that support probably now more than ever in our eighty some years of fundraising here in this community."A fundraiser planned for later this week has gone virtual for the United Way of Reno County."On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, everybody can shop safely from the comfort of their home and go to kendrascott.com," Gleason said. "If they use the code GIVEBACK-04SQ, a portion of all funds raised on those two days will give back to United Way of Reno County."United Way of Reno County supports 24 partner agencies in their work throughout the community.

United Way continuing to fundraise, even in midst of pandemic

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Despite shutdowns due to a major fire in Kansas and the pandemic,
Tyson Foods posted stronger than expected fourth quarter earnings Monday thanks
in part to a resurgence in beef and pork purchases from U.S. consumers.

Tyson, reported
a revenue increase of 5.3% to $11.46 billion compared with $10.88 billion last
year.

The strong
numbers offset losses from the pandemic. Tyson said it absorbed around $540
million in coronavirus-related costs for its 2020 financial year, including
those linked to plant closures, safety measures, testing and product
downgrades.

After slowdowns
due to restaurant closings amid the pandemic, the prepared foods segment of the
company also recovered posting total sales of $2.2 billion an increase of 1.6%
although sales for the entire fiscal year fell by 1.9%.

Tyson
operates two prepared foods plants in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588685864920.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Despite shutdowns due to a major fire in Kansas and the pandemic,
Tyson Foods posted stronger than expected fourth quarter earnings Monday thanks
in part to a resurgence in beef and pork purchases from U.S. consumers.Tyson, reported
a revenue increase of 5.3% to $11.46 billion compared with $10.88 billion last
year.The strong
numbers offset losses from the pandemic. Tyson said it absorbed around $540
million in coronavirus-related costs for its 2020 financial year, including
those linked to plant closures, safety measures, testing and product
downgrades.After slowdowns
due to restaurant closings amid the pandemic, the prepared foods segment of the
company also recovered posting total sales of $2.2 billion an increase of 1.6%
although sales for the entire fiscal year fell by 1.9%.Tyson
operates two prepared foods plants in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson.

Tyson recovered to post strong 4Q numbers

Harvest is winding down or already completed. Cattle are turned out on winter pasture. And I’m sure some have already selected their turkey for Thanksgiving. Yes, the end of 2020 is approaching fast — thankfully, mercifully.

Like the previous 101 years, this one won’t end without Kansas Farm Bureau’s annual meeting. Normally we’d gather hundreds of members in person to celebrate another harvest, recognize agricultural leaders and conduct the business of this great organization.

We’ll still do all that good stuff at our 102nd annual meeting Dec. 3-4, with the slight change of beaming the workshops, speakers, panel discussions, general sessions and more to your living room, tractor cab or barn.

The virtual sessions on Thursday and Friday will allow all Farm Bureau members in Kansas to participate for free, including Vance Crowe’s keynote address to lead off the meeting Thursday morning. Members can view the annual meeting agenda and register at www.kfb.org/annualmeeting. 

Other highlights include an appearance from U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, an update from Andrew Walmsley on American Farm Bureau Activities in Washington, D.C. and a townhall with our newly elected federal officials.

Additionally, there’s time set aside for networking, chatting about sessions and providing feedback. It’s similar to what would happen in the hallways and around meals at a regular convention.

I won’t try to sell you on the notion technology will fully replicate the KFB annual meeting experience because it can’t. However, like so many other things this year, it’s the safest way for members and staff to mark the trials and tribulations of 2020 and honor the achievements of agriculture and its practitioners.

Believe me, I know social distancing, mask wearing, avoiding public spaces have become tiresome chores. But we’re getting closer to the end of this malignancy. Just last week promising news of a vaccine was announced. Others are in the works as well. With the aid of science, hopefully this will be the first and last annual meeting held over computer screens.

The fact is right now, there’s no good way to bring hundreds of people together from every corner of the state and have them gather together for an extended amount of time. Significant modifications have been made to allow delegates to conduct KFB business when they gather on Saturday.

Voting delegates will debate and adopt policy statements for 2021, elect the KFB president and board members from even-numbered Farm Bureau districts. Delegates will attend in-person at one of the 10 hubs corresponding to their district. Attendance on Saturday is limited to KFB staff and voting delegates. These will be small groups with masks and plenty of space to spread out.

The logistics behind this year’s annual meeting are mind boggling, and I’ve been impressed with how many solutions, as imperfect as they may be, are available to help connect everyone at a distance. The show will go on with or without you, but I strongly urge you to take a look at the agenda, register and make plans to join us. There’s so much to see, learn and do, I know you’ll find something to grab your attention. I hope to see you there. And, of course, as with every other virtual event this year, pants are optional.

"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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauHarvest is winding down or already completed. Cattle are turned out on winter pasture. And I’m sure some have already selected their turkey for Thanksgiving. Yes, the end of 2020 is approaching fast — thankfully, mercifully.Like the previous 101 years, this one won’t end without Kansas Farm Bureau’s annual meeting. Normally we’d gather hundreds of members in person to celebrate another harvest, recognize agricultural leaders and conduct the business of this great organization.We’ll still do all that good stuff at our 102nd annual meeting Dec. 3-4, with the slight change of beaming the workshops, speakers, panel discussions, general sessions and more to your living room, tractor cab or barn.The virtual sessions on Thursday and Friday will allow all Farm Bureau members in Kansas to participate for free, including Vance Crowe’s keynote address to lead off the meeting Thursday morning. Members can view the annual meeting agenda and register at www.kfb.org/annualmeeting. Other highlights include an appearance from U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, an update from Andrew Walmsley on American Farm Bureau Activities in Washington, D.C. and a townhall with our newly elected federal officials.Additionally, there’s time set aside for networking, chatting about sessions and providing feedback. It’s similar to what would happen in the hallways and around meals at a regular convention.I won’t try to sell you on the notion technology will fully replicate the KFB annual meeting experience because it can’t. However, like so many other things this year, it’s the safest way for members and staff to mark the trials and tribulations of 2020 and honor the achievements of agriculture and its practitioners.Believe me, I know social distancing, mask wearing, avoiding public spaces have become tiresome chores. But we’re getting closer to the end of this malignancy. Just last week promising news of a vaccine was announced. Others are in the works as well. With the aid of science, hopefully this will be the first and last annual meeting held over computer screens.The fact is right now, there’s no good way to bring hundreds of people together from every corner of the state and have them gather together for an extended amount of time. Significant modifications have been made to allow delegates to conduct KFB business when they gather on Saturday.Voting delegates will debate and adopt policy statements for 2021, elect the KFB president and board members from even-numbered Farm Bureau districts. Delegates will attend in-person at one of the 10 hubs corresponding to their district. Attendance on Saturday is limited to KFB staff and voting delegates. These will be small groups with masks and plenty of space to spread out.The logistics behind this year’s annual meeting are mind boggling, and I’ve been impressed with how many solutions, as imperfect as they may be, are available to help connect everyone at a distance. The show will go on with or without you, but I strongly urge you to take a look at the agenda, register and make plans to join us. There’s so much to see, learn and do, I know you’ll find something to grab your attention. I hope to see you there. And, of course, as with every other virtual event this year, pants are optional."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: The Show Goes On


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The numbers on the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard as of Sunday evening should sound the alarm, if there is anyone left who isn't convinced it is a serious problem in the community.

The county overall is officially at a high alert level. This means there is a widespread outbreak that is growing with many undetected cases. Take strong measures to limit all contact.

Thirty people have died of COVID-19, 21 of those in the last 30 days. The youngest death was a 50-year-old. The oldest was 96. The average age of death for that group of 30 is 77.6 years old, with a median age of 79.

There are 950 active cases, with 687 in the community. The correctional facility cluster type has 298 cases. The long-term care facility cluster type has 49 active cases, with 7 deaths.

There are 40 active clusters in the community.

Twenty-seven people are in the hospital. One hundred forty-four have been hospitalized. Fifty-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 17 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 16.17%, with the overall positive test rate at 23.44%. 23.35% of the population has been tested.

The next community testing date is Tuesday the 17th at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605524255955.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The numbers on the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard as of Sunday evening should sound the alarm, if there is anyone left who isn't convinced it is a serious problem in the community.The county overall is officially at a high alert level. This means there is a widespread outbreak that is growing with many undetected cases. Take strong measures to limit all contact.Thirty people have died of COVID-19, 21 of those in the last 30 days. The youngest death was a 50-year-old. The oldest was 96. The average age of death for that group of 30 is 77.6 years old, with a median age of 79.There are 950 active cases, with 687 in the community. The correctional facility cluster type has 298 cases. The long-term care facility cluster type has 49 active cases, with 7 deaths.There are 40 active clusters in the community.Twenty-seven people are in the hospital. One hundred forty-four have been hospitalized. Fifty-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 17 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 16.17%, with the overall positive test rate at 23.44%. 23.35% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Tuesday the 17th at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Overall county on high alert for COVID-19, 950 active cases, with 687 in community


HARVEY COUNTY —&nbsp;Over 5,000 acres of Harvey County land was burned over the weekend in a fire large enough to get a name and show up on the public fire information page of the U.S. Forest Service. 

The initial call to Harvey County Communications on what firefighters are calling the Wheat State Fire was received at 12:44 p.m. Saturday. The call reported a grass fire in pastureland.  

No injuries occurred as a result of the fire, and just minor damage to one outbuilding happened as a result of the blaze that started near Northwest 48th Street and North Burmac Road, southeast of Buhler. The cause of the fire has not been determined.

The Kansas Forest Service and over 150 firefighters from all across central Kansas battled most of the weekend to control the fire.

Emergency responders battled a grass fire near Northwest 48th Street and North Burmac Road, southeast of Buhler on Saturday afternoon, according to public information officer for Harvey County Kyle McCaskey.

The initial call to Harvey County Communications was received at 12:44 p.m. The call reported a grass fire in pastureland.&nbsp;&nbsp;About 700 acres of land had burned as of 3:30 p.m Saturday.

No injuries or damage to structures have been reported at this time. However, emergency responders are prioritizing protecting structures in the area, according to McCaskey.

Continued strong, gusty winds are providing additional challenges for first responders. Roads in the area are closed to traffic. Individuals are asked to avoid the area.

The cause of the fire has not been determined.

Several agencies have responded to the scene, including fire departments from Burrton, Cheney, Halstead, Hesston, Moundridge, Mount Hope, Reno County and Walton, as well as the Kansas Forest Service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605396646254.png" alt="Saturday afternoon grass fire photo courtesy Harvey County Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Saturday afternoon grass fire photo courtesy Harvey County Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>
HARVEY COUNTY —&nbsp;Over 5,000 acres of Harvey County land was burned over the weekend in a fire large enough to get a name and show up on the public fire information page of the U.S. Forest Service. The initial call to Harvey County Communications on what firefighters are calling the Wheat State Fire was received at 12:44 p.m. Saturday. The call reported a grass fire in pastureland. No injuries occurred as a result of the fire, and just minor damage to one outbuilding happened as a result of the blaze that started near Northwest 48th Street and North Burmac Road, southeast of Buhler. The cause of the fire has not been determined.The Kansas Forest Service and over 150 firefighters from all across central Kansas battled most of the weekend to control the fire.Original story:Emergency responders battled a grass fire near Northwest 48th Street and North Burmac Road, southeast of Buhler on Saturday afternoon, according to public information officer for Harvey County Kyle McCaskey.The initial call to Harvey County Communications was received at 12:44 p.m. The call reported a grass fire in pastureland.&nbsp;&nbsp;About 700 acres of land had burned as of 3:30 p.m Saturday.No injuries or damage to structures have been reported at this time. However, emergency responders are prioritizing protecting structures in the area, according to McCaskey.Continued strong, gusty winds are providing additional challenges for first responders. Roads in the area are closed to traffic. Individuals are asked to avoid the area.The cause of the fire has not been determined.Several agencies have responded to the scene, including fire departments from Burrton, Cheney, Halstead, Hesston, Moundridge, Mount Hope, Reno County and Walton, as well as the Kansas Forest Service.

UPDATE: Wheat State Fire burns over 5,000 acres


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will have a light agenda Tuesday.

The council will pass its consent agenda, have a public hearing on a utility easement vacation at 902 Corey Road, consider bids for upgrades to the electrical at the Hutchinson Zoo and discuss Reno County sewer districts 201 and 202 and the 2021 dental and health insurance premiums for city employees. 

The council will also receive a report from City Manager Jeff Cantrell and have council and mayoral comments.

The meeting will take place at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall and be streamed on Facebook and Youtube.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603102823273.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will have a light agenda Tuesday.The council will pass its consent agenda, have a public hearing on a utility easement vacation at 902 Corey Road, consider bids for upgrades to the electrical at the Hutchinson Zoo and discuss Reno County sewer districts 201 and 202 and the 2021 dental and health insurance premiums for city employees. The council will also receive a report from City Manager Jeff Cantrell and have council and mayoral comments.The meeting will take place at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall and be streamed on Facebook and Youtube.

Light agenda for council Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;According to a University of Kansas law professor, there are a couple of routes the U.S. Supreme Court could choose to take to uphold the Affordable Care Act after oral arguments took place Tuesday in California v. Texas. One involves a concept called severability.

"Severability is a body of judicial doctrine which asks the question, hey, we have a statute here and the statute has lots of parts," said Lou Mulligan, Earl B. Shurtz Research Professor of Law at The University of Kansas. "Some parts of it are constitutional and some parts of it are not constitutional, so, should we find the entire statute unconstitutional, or just the sub-part unconstitutional?"

The justices appeared to believe that the individual mandate portion of the law may be severable from the rest of it, but that's only if they think the case actually should have gotten to the court in the first place. That is where the concept of standing comes into play.

"Standing is the body of law that says, hey, you can only come to court if you're actually hurt," Mulligan said. "You can't come to court just because you're mad. You actually have to have what the courts call a concrete injury. Here, the ACA was amended to make the mandate tax penalty $0. There's a real question. What is your injury? If you don't get insurance under Obamacare, you'll face a zero dollar penalty?"

It's not clear which route the court may take. A decision in the case is expected sometime next year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588604317484.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;According to a University of Kansas law professor, there are a couple of routes the U.S. Supreme Court could choose to take to uphold the Affordable Care Act after oral arguments took place Tuesday in California v. Texas. One involves a concept called severability."Severability is a body of judicial doctrine which asks the question, hey, we have a statute here and the statute has lots of parts," said Lou Mulligan, Earl B. Shurtz Research Professor of Law at The University of Kansas. "Some parts of it are constitutional and some parts of it are not constitutional, so, should we find the entire statute unconstitutional, or just the sub-part unconstitutional?"The justices appeared to believe that the individual mandate portion of the law may be severable from the rest of it, but that's only if they think the case actually should have gotten to the court in the first place. That is where the concept of standing comes into play."Standing is the body of law that says, hey, you can only come to court if you're actually hurt," Mulligan said. "You can't come to court just because you're mad. You actually have to have what the courts call a concrete injury. Here, the ACA was amended to make the mandate tax penalty $0. There's a real question. What is your injury? If you don't get insurance under Obamacare, you'll face a zero dollar penalty?"It's not clear which route the court may take. A decision in the case is expected sometime next year.

Mulligan: Supreme Court has two routes to uphold ACA, if it wants to

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will meet on Monday to discuss whether to extend the Christmas break by three days.

Currently, the break is to run from Dec. 24 through Jan. 3. Under the proposal, the break would start Monday, Dec. 21, adding three days. Any snow days would then be remote learning days.&nbsp;

Also Monday, the board will go over restrictions for winter sports activities. The restrictions would be much the same as they are for fall sports. No spectators would be allowed in middle school activities and all high school events would provide two tickets per athlete. There would be no pep band, no concession stands and no Panther Pride gear for sale. All facilities would be available for youth activities, but not for adults.&nbsp;

Monday’s meeting of the Nickerson USD 309 School Board begins at 7 p.m. at Reno Valley Middle School.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will meet on Monday to discuss whether to extend the Christmas break by three days.Currently, the break is to run from Dec. 24 through Jan. 3. Under the proposal, the break would start Monday, Dec. 21, adding three days. Any snow days would then be remote learning days.&nbsp;Also Monday, the board will go over restrictions for winter sports activities. The restrictions would be much the same as they are for fall sports. No spectators would be allowed in middle school activities and all high school events would provide two tickets per athlete. There would be no pep band, no concession stands and no Panther Pride gear for sale. All facilities would be available for youth activities, but not for adults.&nbsp;Monday’s meeting of the Nickerson USD 309 School Board begins at 7 p.m. at Reno Valley Middle School.

USD 309 to consider revised Christmas break


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Salvation Army will have its Kettle Kick Off on Monday.

"On Monday at noon in front of the Sleep Shoppe, we'll be doing our kettle kick off," said Paul James with the Salvation Army. "We'll announce our goal and just kind of encourage individuals to sign up to volunteer to ring bells. This year, we're trying to practice social distancing and wearing masks, just to keep everyone safe while we're doing it."

A couple of downtown businesses are competing for donations this year with the kettles coming out at the traditional start of the Christmas season.

"This year, starting Plaid Friday and then we'll have Small Business Saturday and every Saturday until Christmas," said the Toy Depot's Mark Buckley. "Then, I talked to my good friend Kevin Rule and he's also going to do it at the Sleep Shoppe, we're going to have a little competition between us to see who can, hopefully, raise the most money."

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Salvation Army will have its Kettle Kick Off on Monday."On Monday at noon in front of the Sleep Shoppe, we'll be doing our kettle kick off," said Paul James with the Salvation Army. "We'll announce our goal and just kind of encourage individuals to sign up to volunteer to ring bells. This year, we're trying to practice social distancing and wearing masks, just to keep everyone safe while we're doing it."A couple of downtown businesses are competing for donations this year with the kettles coming out at the traditional start of the Christmas season."This year, starting Plaid Friday and then we'll have Small Business Saturday and every Saturday until Christmas," said the Toy Depot's Mark Buckley. "Then, I talked to my good friend Kevin Rule and he's also going to do it at the Sleep Shoppe, we're going to have a little competition between us to see who can, hopefully, raise the most money."If you're nervous about donating in an actual kettle due to COVID-19, there will be a virtual kettle at hutchtoydepot.com where you can donate.