
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Republican 102nd District House candidate John Whitesel has a singular focus to his campaign.

"The taxes and regulations in this state are really out of control," Whitsel said. "We are the number four highest taxed state in the nation. We're right behind New York and California. For individuals, this state is not a good place if you like low taxes and I'm hoping to change that."

Whitesel believes that government should shrink.

"Before you can cut taxes, you've got to reduce spending," Whitesel said. "I mean, there's no way around that. Yeah, you can grow your way to prosperity, but realistically you need to spend less money and if that's not at the core of it then no matter what you bring in, you're always going to spend it."

"I think you need to cut across the board," Whitesel said. "I really do. Then, if you make a cut across the board then you can put things back into the things that matter most. Where those things are would of course, be negotiated, but, you're never going to get specific cuts, because you're never going to get enough people to target any specific area to cut."

Whitesel is running against Democrat incumbent Jason Probst in November.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Republican 102nd District House candidate John Whitesel has a singular focus to his campaign."The taxes and regulations in this state are really out of control," Whitsel said. "We are the number four highest taxed state in the nation. We're right behind New York and California. For individuals, this state is not a good place if you like low taxes and I'm hoping to change that."Whitesel believes that government should shrink."Before you can cut taxes, you've got to reduce spending," Whitesel said. "I mean, there's no way around that. Yeah, you can grow your way to prosperity, but realistically you need to spend less money and if that's not at the core of it then no matter what you bring in, you're always going to spend it."He's not interested in targeting cuts."I think you need to cut across the board," Whitesel said. "I really do. Then, if you make a cut across the board then you can put things back into the things that matter most. Where those things are would of course, be negotiated, but, you're never going to get specific cuts, because you're never going to get enough people to target any specific area to cut."Whitesel is running against Democrat incumbent Jason Probst in November.

Whitesel: Across the board cuts needed in state government

Eagle Communications announced last week that longtime employee-owner Terry Drouhard has announced his retirement, effective Dec. 31.

Drouhard, who has been with Eagle since 1989, serves as the regional manager of Eagle's markets in Salina and Hutchinson.

"We congratulate Terry on his very successful years of service with Eagle and that he will be able to look forward to a well-deserved retirement spending time with his wife, Kathy," said Kurt David, Eagle chief executive officer.

"It has been my pleasure and privilege to be an Eagle employee these past 30-plus years," Drouhard said. "Working in our employee-owned company has been a wonderful experience; one I will fondly remember. I look forward to the next stage of life with family and friends.”

Effective Oct. 1, Ben Waters, who has served as sales manager and digital leader in Hutchinson has been named general manager of Hutchinson, which operates radio stations Country 102.9, KWBW and My 93.1, as well as <a href="https://hutchpost.com/">Hutch Post</a>.

Drouhard and Waters will work together to transition both the Hutchinson and Salina markets to new leadership.

"I am very thankful to have started my career under the direction of Terry Drouhard," Waters said. "I am excited for the opportunity to continue to help and grow our teams both in the Salina and Hutchinson markets. Eagle is a great company to work for, and my family and I are excited to be a part of it."

Also last week, Eagle announced it is seeking a new general manager for its Salina market, which operates 99KG, 94.5 Prime and KINA, as well as <a href="https://salinapost.com/">Salina Post</a>.

Founded in 1948, Eagle Communications Inc. is a Kansas-based media company with over 165 employee-owners. The company operates more than 30 radio stations in Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. In addition to radio, the company offers online solutions, web development, video production and creative services. Eagle is the parent company of the Post News Network.

For more, visit <a href="https://eagleradio.net/">eagleradio.net</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601385582932.jpeg" alt="Terry Drouhard" />
 <figcaption>Terry Drouhard</figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Communications announced last week that longtime employee-owner Terry Drouhard has announced his retirement, effective Dec. 31.Drouhard, who has been with Eagle since 1989, serves as the regional manager of Eagle's markets in Salina and Hutchinson."We congratulate Terry on his very successful years of service with Eagle and that he will be able to look forward to a well-deserved retirement spending time with his wife, Kathy," said Kurt David, Eagle chief executive officer."It has been my pleasure and privilege to be an Eagle employee these past 30-plus years," Drouhard said. "Working in our employee-owned company has been a wonderful experience; one I will fondly remember. I look forward to the next stage of life with family and friends.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601385688728.jpeg" alt="Ben Waters" />
 <figcaption>Ben Waters</figcaption>
 </figure>Effective Oct. 1, Ben Waters, who has served as sales manager and digital leader in Hutchinson has been named general manager of Hutchinson, which operates radio stations Country 102.9, KWBW and My 93.1, as well as <a href="https://hutchpost.com/">Hutch Post</a>.Drouhard and Waters will work together to transition both the Hutchinson and Salina markets to new leadership."I am very thankful to have started my career under the direction of Terry Drouhard," Waters said. "I am excited for the opportunity to continue to help and grow our teams both in the Salina and Hutchinson markets. Eagle is a great company to work for, and my family and I are excited to be a part of it."Also last week, Eagle announced it is seeking a new general manager for its Salina market, which operates 99KG, 94.5 Prime and KINA, as well as <a href="https://salinapost.com/">Salina Post</a>.Founded in 1948, Eagle Communications Inc. is a Kansas-based media company with over 165 employee-owners. The company operates more than 30 radio stations in Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. In addition to radio, the company offers online solutions, web development, video production and creative services. Eagle is the parent company of the Post News Network. For more, visit <a href="https://eagleradio.net/">eagleradio.net</a>.<figure>
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Eagle announces Drouhard's retirement, management changes


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run is holding an event Saturday, October 3 to support First Call for Help.

Jim Gruver with the Rod Run says the event will be at the DCI Parking Lot from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

Donations of socks, gloves, hats, sweatshirts and hygiene items will be accepted.

There will be a Show and Shine Car Show from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Park and then a cruise from Carey Park to 30th and Main and then over to the KMart parking lot on 30th starting at 6 p.m.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Downtown Hutchinson Rod Run is holding an event Saturday, October 3 to support First Call for Help.Jim Gruver with the Rod Run says the event will be at the DCI Parking Lot from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Donations of socks, gloves, hats, sweatshirts and hygiene items will be accepted.There will be a Show and Shine Car Show from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Park and then a cruise from Carey Park to 30th and Main and then over to the KMart parking lot on 30th starting at 6 p.m.

Rod Run holding supply event for First Call for Help Saturday

Release from Reno County Health Department

The Reno County Health Department confirms a fourth local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 died September 25, 2020, while hospitalized in Hutchinson.

Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.

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>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Reno County Health DepartmentThe Reno County Health Department confirms a fourth local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 died September 25, 2020, while hospitalized in Hutchinson.Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.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.

Fourth death from COVID-19 confirmed in Reno County

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of South Hutchinson has released details about its new housing incentive program.&nbsp;

The council has been working on a new incentive program for new housing and approved moving forward with the program during its Sept. 8 meeting. The resolution for the incentive was then approved Sept. 21.

The new program will provide a $5,000 incentive to build a new single-family home under the following guidelines:

The minimum investment must be $100,000, the home must be in the city limits and in a taxed platted development. All zoning requirements must be met and a certificate of occupancy must be issued by the city. The home must also be connected to all city utilities to qualify.

The city has two incentive packages for neighborhood revitalization, but until now, has had no new home incentive to offer.

<figure>
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 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of South Hutchinson has released details about its new housing incentive program.&nbsp;The council has been working on a new incentive program for new housing and approved moving forward with the program during its Sept. 8 meeting. The resolution for the incentive was then approved Sept. 21.The new program will provide a $5,000 incentive to build a new single-family home under the following guidelines:The minimum investment must be $100,000, the home must be in the city limits and in a taxed platted development. All zoning requirements must be met and a certificate of occupancy must be issued by the city. The home must also be connected to all city utilities to qualify.The city has two incentive packages for neighborhood revitalization, but until now, has had no new home incentive to offer.

South Hutchinson new home incentive details released

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man awaiting trial on a first-degree murder charge will be back in a Reno County courtroom Tuesday for a status conference.&nbsp;

Issac Ervin is accused of killing Lora Beth Stratton in August of 2019. Stratton was found unconscious in an alley on Aug. 24. She died at a Wichita hospital.

The conference tomorrow will be to update how the case is moving along. At this time, both sides are waiting for a mental evaluation of the defendant.&nbsp;

The defense has also filed a motion for dismissal of charges claiming self-defense. The motion states that Ervin took action against Stratton under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law, where the use of force against another person was justified in self-defense. Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton says Ervin’s claim does not hold any legal ground.&nbsp;

No word on what will come before Judge Tim Chambers on Tuesday and no new trial date has been set at this time.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man awaiting trial on a first-degree murder charge will be back in a Reno County courtroom Tuesday for a status conference.&nbsp;Issac Ervin is accused of killing Lora Beth Stratton in August of 2019. Stratton was found unconscious in an alley on Aug. 24. She died at a Wichita hospital.The conference tomorrow will be to update how the case is moving along. At this time, both sides are waiting for a mental evaluation of the defendant.&nbsp;The defense has also filed a motion for dismissal of charges claiming self-defense. The motion states that Ervin took action against Stratton under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law, where the use of force against another person was justified in self-defense. Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton says Ervin’s claim does not hold any legal ground.&nbsp;No word on what will come before Judge Tim Chambers on Tuesday and no new trial date has been set at this time.

Status conference Tuesday in murder case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and a great opportunity to learn more about domestic violence.&nbsp;

BrightHouse of Hutchinson has been working for the duration of the pandemic to provide essential services to those experiencing domestic violence. For the month of October, BrightHouse will be sharing information daily on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/brighthouseks">Facebook page</a>&nbsp;to help raise awareness of domestic violence.&nbsp;

Statistics show one in four women and one in seven men experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

Some communities are more affected by abuse and experience more barriers to safety because of race, age, class, immigration status, language, physical ability, gender or sexual orientation.&nbsp;

BrightHouse has also sent letters and proclamations to area mayors inviting them to declare October Domestic Violence Awareness Month.&nbsp;

BrightHouse provides service to Harper, Kingman, Reno and Rice counties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601321377354.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and a great opportunity to learn more about domestic violence.&nbsp;BrightHouse of Hutchinson has been working for the duration of the pandemic to provide essential services to those experiencing domestic violence. For the month of October, BrightHouse will be sharing information daily on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/brighthouseks">Facebook page</a>&nbsp;to help raise awareness of domestic violence.&nbsp;Statistics show one in four women and one in seven men experience domestic violence in their lifetime.Some communities are more affected by abuse and experience more barriers to safety because of race, age, class, immigration status, language, physical ability, gender or sexual orientation.&nbsp;BrightHouse has also sent letters and proclamations to area mayors inviting them to declare October Domestic Violence Awareness Month.&nbsp;BrightHouse provides service to Harper, Kingman, Reno and Rice counties.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Senator Pat Roberts.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/2mz6v-ed22d3?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Senator Pat Roberts.

🎤Forward Ever: U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— A Hutchinson man is facing potential charges of aggravated kidnapping and other counts related to a domestic disturbance Sunday morning.

Rey Sanchez is being held in the Reno County Correctional Facility on suspicion of aggravated kidnapping, sexual battery, two counts of domestic battery, aggravated burglary, and criminal damage to property. His bond is set at $120,750.

Sancehz was arrested after police responded to a domestic situation. According to the affidavit, Sanchez broke into the victim's house and attacked her in her bedroom. At one time she is said to have escaped out on to the front porch, but was grabbed and forced back into the home.&nbsp;

Sanchez is also alleged to have threatened two witnesses during the altercation before driving away from the scene.&nbsp;The investigation continues.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601308718528.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— A Hutchinson man is facing potential charges of aggravated kidnapping and other counts related to a domestic disturbance Sunday morning.Rey Sanchez is being held in the Reno County Correctional Facility on suspicion of aggravated kidnapping, sexual battery, two counts of domestic battery, aggravated burglary, and criminal damage to property. His bond is set at $120,750.Sancehz was arrested after police responded to a domestic situation. According to the affidavit, Sanchez broke into the victim's house and attacked her in her bedroom. At one time she is said to have escaped out on to the front porch, but was grabbed and forced back into the home.&nbsp;Sanchez is also alleged to have threatened two witnesses during the altercation before driving away from the scene.&nbsp;The investigation continues.&nbsp;

Hutchinson man faces possible kidnapping charges after arrest


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Medicare prescription drug coverage, otherwise known as Medicare Part D is an optional benefit offered to everyone who has Medicare. The open enrollment period is coming up between October 15 and December 7.

"We go on to medicare.gov," said SHICK counselor Denise Pina. "We request that they have a list of their prescriptions with the dosage and the quantity. Once we have that information put in, we ask for a pharmacy. Once we have the pharmacies put in to do a comparison, Medicare chooses what's best for the lowest premium and the lowest cost for the drug."

If your medications have changed, that's the time to look again at your plan. It's also possible there have been business changes that are worth a second look.

"Some of the insurance companies, they switch hands," Pina said. "Sometimes their premiums go up, sometimes their premiums go down, we suggest that people take a look at that."

You can submit the form to be looked at already, but you won't get a response until the window to change opens in mid-October. If you have any questions, call the Reno County Department of Aging at 620-694-2911.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Medicare prescription drug coverage, otherwise known as Medicare Part D is an optional benefit offered to everyone who has Medicare. The open enrollment period is coming up between October 15 and December 7."We go on to medicare.gov," said SHICK counselor Denise Pina. "We request that they have a list of their prescriptions with the dosage and the quantity. Once we have that information put in, we ask for a pharmacy. Once we have the pharmacies put in to do a comparison, Medicare chooses what's best for the lowest premium and the lowest cost for the drug."If your medications have changed, that's the time to look again at your plan. It's also possible there have been business changes that are worth a second look."Some of the insurance companies, they switch hands," Pina said. "Sometimes their premiums go up, sometimes their premiums go down, we suggest that people take a look at that."You can submit the form to be looked at already, but you won't get a response until the window to change opens in mid-October. If you have any questions, call the Reno County Department of Aging at 620-694-2911.

Medicare Part D window to open October 15


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas State Senate District 34 Democratic candidate Shanna Henry says Medicaid expansion is why she's running for the seat.

"This is the number one issue," Henry said. "We have spent way too much time stalling on this issue. We've been blockaded in our state legislature by former Governor Brownback's veto of Medicaid expansion. We have now lost to the tune of $4.3 billion of our Kansan taxpayer money since 2014 because we have not passed Medicaid expansion."

Henry sees it as an economic development issue.

"It's hard for our small businesses that aren't able to offer health insurance to their employees," Henry said. "It is very, very hard for so many people that I know personally that have no form of health insurance," Henry said. "This is drastically needed."

Henry is a Kingman County resident and she has seen what her hospital had to do to stay open.

"Our Kingman Community Hospital has lost over $450,000 in annual revenues if we'd have just had Medicaid expansion," Henry said. "We passed a three-quarter percent sales tax, just to keep the doors open of our rural hospital."

Henry is running against Dr. Mark Steffen in the November election to replace Republican Ed Berger. Berger also supported expanding Medicaid. Steffen is against it.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas State Senate District 34 Democratic candidate Shanna Henry says Medicaid expansion is why she's running for the seat."This is the number one issue," Henry said. "We have spent way too much time stalling on this issue. We've been blockaded in our state legislature by former Governor Brownback's veto of Medicaid expansion. We have now lost to the tune of $4.3 billion of our Kansan taxpayer money since 2014 because we have not passed Medicaid expansion."Henry sees it as an economic development issue."It's hard for our small businesses that aren't able to offer health insurance to their employees," Henry said. "It is very, very hard for so many people that I know personally that have no form of health insurance," Henry said. "This is drastically needed."Henry is a Kingman County resident and she has seen what her hospital had to do to stay open."Our Kingman Community Hospital has lost over $450,000 in annual revenues if we'd have just had Medicaid expansion," Henry said. "We passed a three-quarter percent sales tax, just to keep the doors open of our rural hospital."Henry is running against Dr. Mark Steffen in the November election to replace Republican Ed Berger. Berger also supported expanding Medicaid. Steffen is against it.

Henry: Medicaid expansion number one issue in State Senate race

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;Kansas State Senate District 34 Republican candidate Dr. Mark Steffen believes that the key to government accomplishing what it needs to is continuing to have a growing economy.

"It's very, very clear that the states that thrive economically are the ones with small government, low taxes and less bureaucracy," Steffen said. "In spite of Kansas being such a fine, Republican state, we fail to accomplish that."

Steffen is convinced that there is more that can be done to reduce the size of state government.

"The size of our government is huge, our taxes are inordinate, particularly per capita," Steffen said. "We need to work on cleaning up our mess, so to speak and getting down to an efficient machine. When you have a strong economy, it lifts everybody."

Steffen intends to hold to his convictions and expect that to carry the day.

"I make up my mind, I assimilate the data and I get it done," Steffen said. "I'm a private sector guy who has built businesses. I'm not about the process. I'm going to sit down, figure out what's going to be best and I'm going to know what to do quick. That's the way I've lived my life. That's what you've got to do in the operating rooms, it's what you've got to do on the farms. It's what you've got to do in the oil field."

Steffen is running against Democrat Shanna Henry in November for the seat formerly occupied by Ed Berger. Steffen won over Berger in the August primary.

<figure>
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas State Senate District 34 Republican candidate Dr. Mark Steffen believes that the key to government accomplishing what it needs to is continuing to have a growing economy."It's very, very clear that the states that thrive economically are the ones with small government, low taxes and less bureaucracy," Steffen said. "In spite of Kansas being such a fine, Republican state, we fail to accomplish that."Steffen is convinced that there is more that can be done to reduce the size of state government."The size of our government is huge, our taxes are inordinate, particularly per capita," Steffen said. "We need to work on cleaning up our mess, so to speak and getting down to an efficient machine. When you have a strong economy, it lifts everybody."Steffen intends to hold to his convictions and expect that to carry the day."I make up my mind, I assimilate the data and I get it done," Steffen said. "I'm a private sector guy who has built businesses. I'm not about the process. I'm going to sit down, figure out what's going to be best and I'm going to know what to do quick. That's the way I've lived my life. That's what you've got to do in the operating rooms, it's what you've got to do on the farms. It's what you've got to do in the oil field."Steffen is running against Democrat Shanna Henry in November for the seat formerly occupied by Ed Berger. Steffen won over Berger in the August primary.

Steffen: Government efficiency key to growing economy

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

If I were putting together a Sunday Drive Edition of a scavenger hunt, it would most certainly include the “CO-OP” emblem. You probably know what one I mean: an outline of a red circle and blue circle overlapping and the letters C-O-O-P stamped in the middle.

No matter where you go in the Midwest, you can likely spot this classic symbol. It’s in obvious places like on the side of a grain elevator, gas tank or a business sign. And in more subtle places like old feed buckets, oil drums, clocks and utensils in a grandmother’s kitchen, or on hats and jackets kept by old farmers.

The logo, which was almost universally used by agricultural cooperatives in the 1980s and earlier, has slowly faded from use as modern cooperatives have opted to use their own brands to build recognition and loyalty, which is a smart move from a business perspective.

The nostalgic side of me is a little sad to see the once unified look of cooperatives drift into obsolescence. It makes me think about all the people who are rapidly moving further away from the complex story of how American agriculture came to grow of the safest, most abundant food supply in the world.

Cooperatives played a vital role in that story, and since October is National Co-ops month, I want to share briefly about how co-ops helped build American agriculture into what it is today and how they continue to keep our rural communities strong.

Cooperatives have their roots in agriculture. A group of farmers in England who were getting a raw deal from their suppliers formed the first cooperative several centuries ago. They were paying too much for a terrible product. Eventually the farmers got so frustrated that they decided they could do much better themselves. They pooled their resources to create a business but ended up creating an new framework and guiding principles for cooperatives, which are business collectively owned and operated by their members, who then share in the benefits and profits of the organization.

A century ago, that same model started to make a lot of sense in small remote communities across the Midwest. As farmers began to grow excess grain, they needed somewhere to take it. A group of neighbors could form a cooperative, which allowed them to team up and build an elevator for storage and have an organization that could take care of selling and shipping grain to larger markets. Cooperatives helped farmers make a better living for themselves and their neighbors.

Through the decades, these small community cooperatives have grown and merged with other cooperatives to create more efficiency and adapted to provide new services for their members. However, the guiding principles of serving members and their communities have stayed the same.

The people who started those cooperatives probably were not that different from you and me. They were trying to build a business, make a living and support their families. What made them special was the willingness to do something risky. They joined their neighbors, taking a chance together in hopes it would fix their problems.

In the spirit of cooperatives and the pioneers who built them, I challenge you to look around at your community. What problems need solving? No one is going to solve them for you. You do not necessarily have to start a cooperative to fix every problem but working together with your neighbors and investing in your community are great places to start.

And if you do have a local co-op, remember support them is just like supporting your neighbors and community.

"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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 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancherIf I were putting together a Sunday Drive Edition of a scavenger hunt, it would most certainly include the “CO-OP” emblem. You probably know what one I mean: an outline of a red circle and blue circle overlapping and the letters C-O-O-P stamped in the middle.No matter where you go in the Midwest, you can likely spot this classic symbol. It’s in obvious places like on the side of a grain elevator, gas tank or a business sign. And in more subtle places like old feed buckets, oil drums, clocks and utensils in a grandmother’s kitchen, or on hats and jackets kept by old farmers.The logo, which was almost universally used by agricultural cooperatives in the 1980s and earlier, has slowly faded from use as modern cooperatives have opted to use their own brands to build recognition and loyalty, which is a smart move from a business perspective.The nostalgic side of me is a little sad to see the once unified look of cooperatives drift into obsolescence. It makes me think about all the people who are rapidly moving further away from the complex story of how American agriculture came to grow of the safest, most abundant food supply in the world.Cooperatives played a vital role in that story, and since October is National Co-ops month, I want to share briefly about how co-ops helped build American agriculture into what it is today and how they continue to keep our rural communities strong.Cooperatives have their roots in agriculture. A group of farmers in England who were getting a raw deal from their suppliers formed the first cooperative several centuries ago. They were paying too much for a terrible product. Eventually the farmers got so frustrated that they decided they could do much better themselves. They pooled their resources to create a business but ended up creating an new framework and guiding principles for cooperatives, which are business collectively owned and operated by their members, who then share in the benefits and profits of the organization.A century ago, that same model started to make a lot of sense in small remote communities across the Midwest. As farmers began to grow excess grain, they needed somewhere to take it. A group of neighbors could form a cooperative, which allowed them to team up and build an elevator for storage and have an organization that could take care of selling and shipping grain to larger markets. Cooperatives helped farmers make a better living for themselves and their neighbors.Through the decades, these small community cooperatives have grown and merged with other cooperatives to create more efficiency and adapted to provide new services for their members. However, the guiding principles of serving members and their communities have stayed the same.The people who started those cooperatives probably were not that different from you and me. They were trying to build a business, make a living and support their families. What made them special was the willingness to do something risky. They joined their neighbors, taking a chance together in hopes it would fix their problems.In the spirit of cooperatives and the pioneers who built them, I challenge you to look around at your community. What problems need solving? No one is going to solve them for you. You do not necessarily have to start a cooperative to fix every problem but working together with your neighbors and investing in your community are great places to start.And if you do have a local co-op, remember support them is just like supporting your neighbors and community."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 Benefits of Cooperation


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The active case count in Reno County is back up to 191 cases, with many of those connected to cluster activity.&nbsp;The case count is up 34 cases in just three days. It was at 157 on the 24th.

According to the latest numbers Sunday, Hutchinson Correctional Facility is back up to 86 active cases, with 10 active cases connected to a religious gathering, one remaining case from Hutchinson Community College and nine active cases connected to K-12 education in the county.

1,057 positive test results have come since the beginning of the pandemic, with 863 recovered. Three have died.

The positive test rate in the county is still an area of concern, with the overall positive test rate at 11.99%. When you take out the prison cases, the community positive test rate is at 7.91%.

8,816 people have been tested with 7,759 negatives. This is in spite of four weeks of community testing of asymptomatic individuals in an effort to get what was hoped to be a more accurate number regarding community spread. 14.03% of the population has been tested.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The active case count in Reno County is back up to 191 cases, with many of those connected to cluster activity.&nbsp;The case count is up 34 cases in just three days. It was at 157 on the 24th.According to the latest numbers Sunday, Hutchinson Correctional Facility is back up to 86 active cases, with 10 active cases connected to a religious gathering, one remaining case from Hutchinson Community College and nine active cases connected to K-12 education in the county.1,057 positive test results have come since the beginning of the pandemic, with 863 recovered. Three have died.The positive test rate in the county is still an area of concern, with the overall positive test rate at 11.99%. When you take out the prison cases, the community positive test rate is at 7.91%.8,816 people have been tested with 7,759 negatives. This is in spite of four weeks of community testing of asymptomatic individuals in an effort to get what was hoped to be a more accurate number regarding community spread. 14.03% of the population has been tested.

Active cases and positive test rate increase in Reno County

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Saturday in Reno County.

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 International Truck driven by James Dustin Gates, 37, Sedalia, Colorado, was northbound on K14 at 56th Avenue.

The driver swerved to avoid a deer.&nbsp; The truck left the roadway to the right and the driver overcorrected. The truck rotated counter-clockwise, rolled onto its side, entered the west ditch and rolled onto its top.

EMS transported Gates to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Saturday in Reno County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 International Truck driven by James Dustin Gates, 37, Sedalia, Colorado, was northbound on K14 at 56th Avenue.The driver swerved to avoid a deer.&nbsp; The truck left the roadway to the right and the driver overcorrected. The truck rotated counter-clockwise, rolled onto its side, entered the west ditch and rolled onto its top.EMS transported Gates to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Truck driver hospitalized after he swerves to miss deer

Topeka, Kan.— The NFIB Kansas Political Action Committee has endorsed Paul Waggoner for State Representative. The PAC is comprised exclusively of NFIB members.

“Our members support candidates who support small business, and Paul Waggoner clearly understands the challenges facing Kansas’s job creators,” NFIB State Director Dan Murray said. “We know Paul will continue to work to create and maintain an environment where small businesses can succeed and create jobs.”

The NFIB Kansas PAC’s endorsement is important to candidates running for the Legislature. Small-business owners and their employees vote in high numbers and are known for actively recruiting friends, family members and acquaintances to go to the polls. The PAC’s support is based on the candidates’ positions and records on small business issues.

NFIB is the nation’s leading small-business association. To learn more about NFIB in Kansas, visit NFIB.com/KS and follow @NFIB_KS on Twitter.

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 </figure>Release from NFIB KansasTopeka, Kan.— The NFIB Kansas Political Action Committee has endorsed Paul Waggoner for State Representative. The PAC is comprised exclusively of NFIB members.“Our members support candidates who support small business, and Paul Waggoner clearly understands the challenges facing Kansas’s job creators,” NFIB State Director Dan Murray said. “We know Paul will continue to work to create and maintain an environment where small businesses can succeed and create jobs.”The NFIB Kansas PAC’s endorsement is important to candidates running for the Legislature. Small-business owners and their employees vote in high numbers and are known for actively recruiting friends, family members and acquaintances to go to the polls. The PAC’s support is based on the candidates’ positions and records on small business issues.NFIB is the nation’s leading small-business association. To learn more about NFIB in Kansas, visit NFIB.com/KS and follow @NFIB_KS on Twitter.

NFIB Kansas Political Action Committee Endorses Paul Waggoner for District 104 State House


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;With roughly six months of numbers to go on, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center says for their population, the number of admitted patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis is dead even by gender.

"If you include Q1, the number was actually 70 and 70, equal," said Chuck Welch with the hospital.

The majority of patients were hospitalized because COVID-19 made something else they had worse, not because of COVID-19 itself.

"We saw 39 patients of the 140 that came in with a primary diagnosis of COVID," Welch said. "The rest of them, their principal diagnosis was something else and it also turned out that they had COVID."

The hospital did not release information on length of stay, because if someone had that information, they could likely figure out who an individual was that was admitted and there are legal ramifications if that were possible.

"The difficulty with identifying length of stay is that length of stay with this disease is so specific to the person," Welch said. "It depends on the comorbidities. It depends on the other things they had going on with them at the time."

The most patients have come in July, August and the first half of September. The average age of females admitted was 60 years old. Average age of males admitted was 57.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;With roughly six months of numbers to go on, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center says for their population, the number of admitted patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis is dead even by gender."If you include Q1, the number was actually 70 and 70, equal," said Chuck Welch with the hospital.The majority of patients were hospitalized because COVID-19 made something else they had worse, not because of COVID-19 itself."We saw 39 patients of the 140 that came in with a primary diagnosis of COVID," Welch said. "The rest of them, their principal diagnosis was something else and it also turned out that they had COVID."The hospital did not release information on length of stay, because if someone had that information, they could likely figure out who an individual was that was admitted and there are legal ramifications if that were possible."The difficulty with identifying length of stay is that length of stay with this disease is so specific to the person," Welch said. "It depends on the comorbidities. It depends on the other things they had going on with them at the time."The most patients have come in July, August and the first half of September. The average age of females admitted was 60 years old. Average age of males admitted was 57.

Admissions that include COVID-19 evenly split by gender at HRMC after six months

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will once again address the purchase of fire equipment for Rural Fire District #4 during Tuesday's meeting. Originally, the county approved the purchase of a truck, but the fire district was unable to find one to fit its needs.

Now, Chief Kent Branscom has two sister trucks that have been located in South Carolina for $95,000 each. Branscom says the benefit of having two similar trucks will be ease of training for the volunteers and standard operating procedures for the two pumpers.&nbsp;

Also Tuesday, the board will go over an agreement with SCS Engineers to do engineering work for the foundation and pad portion of the new landfill support facilities that will be built on the portion of Mohawk Road that will soon be vacated.&nbsp;

And the board will get the weekly update on the pandemic. 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. — Reno County Commissioners will once again address the purchase of fire equipment for Rural Fire District #4 during Tuesday's meeting. Originally, the county approved the purchase of a truck, but the fire district was unable to find one to fit its needs.Now, Chief Kent Branscom has two sister trucks that have been located in South Carolina for $95,000 each. Branscom says the benefit of having two similar trucks will be ease of training for the volunteers and standard operating procedures for the two pumpers.&nbsp;Also Tuesday, the board will go over an agreement with SCS Engineers to do engineering work for the foundation and pad portion of the new landfill support facilities that will be built on the portion of Mohawk Road that will soon be vacated.&nbsp;And the board will get the weekly update on the pandemic. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Commission to discuss fire trucks again Tuesday

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler City Council will meet to discuss the Wheatland Park complex during Tuesday's agenda session.&nbsp;

The baseball and softball facility along with the park is used by USD 313, Hutch Rec and the city for numerous events throughout the spring and summer. The council will discuss a new agreement between the entities. The matter is for discussion only.&nbsp;

The council will also get an update from the Buhler Economic Development Board and discuss how some COVID relief funds could be spent.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s meeting of the Buhler City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the city offices at 219 N. Main.

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 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler City Council will meet to discuss the Wheatland Park complex during Tuesday's agenda session.&nbsp;The baseball and softball facility along with the park is used by USD 313, Hutch Rec and the city for numerous events throughout the spring and summer. The council will discuss a new agreement between the entities. The matter is for discussion only.&nbsp;The council will also get an update from the Buhler Economic Development Board and discuss how some COVID relief funds could be spent.&nbsp;Tuesday’s meeting of the Buhler City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the city offices at 219 N. Main.

Buhler City Council to discuss operations agreement for sports facility

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Public Library announced Friday that The Friends of the Hutchinson Public Library are back in the building,&nbsp;

The Library says the Friendshop Book Store is open and they are holding a sale throughout the month to get rid of a large backlog of books that accumulated after the store was closed due to the pandemic. The library says they can’t accept any more donations at this time because there’s no room&nbsp; to store them.

The library also says that the Children's Fall Virtual Programs start next Friday, October 2.

The library will post storytimes, puppet plays, shadow puppet plays, and more every Friday from October 2 until November 27. A list of the virtual programs will be available on the library website and Facebook page.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Public Library announced Friday that The Friends of the Hutchinson Public Library are back in the building,&nbsp;The Library says the Friendshop Book Store is open and they are holding a sale throughout the month to get rid of a large backlog of books that accumulated after the store was closed due to the pandemic. The library says they can’t accept any more donations at this time because there’s no room&nbsp; to store them.The library also says that the Children's Fall Virtual Programs start next Friday, October 2.The library will post storytimes, puppet plays, shadow puppet plays, and more every Friday from October 2 until November 27. A list of the virtual programs will be available on the library website and Facebook page.

Friends of the Library holding month-long book sale

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Director of Business and Industry at Hutchinson Community College will be one of the featured speakers at the Kansas Manufacturing Summit scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6, in Mulvane.&nbsp;

Dave Mullins is one of six speakers and panelists for the summit that will focus on key issues challenging today's manufacturers. The day-long forum provides the opportunity to network, learn about manufacturing resources and industry trends, and gain insight into workforce development.

The summit is part of the month-long celebration of National Manufacturing Month and is led by the Kansas Manufacturing Council, in partnership with Kansas Manufacturing Solutions, Pittsburg State University and the Kansas Chamber.

The winner of the <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001baP_nuYFwiK8amIyRKDjzACxAss27RdOh2glJR9Vs4wkCK23mQXZYkLWuEi7w8pcahPFcRMJT3EF36uMIht9g9AXX_lVV6py5uG3HeDxFqKX9txulLv_7eu4K5hyKSqBCIKc7paCApiGSIc1RgIdsgRFBfnZtyRO_U3cS9BtkT_4U0SuyMH6kw==&amp;c=cK-uqeFXFqcZBmp1LzpHAbB_BE7fQgFKQPky6Lf3ouVUz1xxIsNrig==&amp;ch=1EJx1_1sRY0rc11gU8GZAOhZxdSkRsU6qi9wrHvNNNtl3KSU3nN_1w==">2020 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>&nbsp;will also be announced during the summit. The competition features 16 nominated Kansas-made products that compete in a product head-to-head tournament. The top four companies will be invited to display their products at the summit.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Director of Business and Industry at Hutchinson Community College will be one of the featured speakers at the Kansas Manufacturing Summit scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6, in Mulvane.&nbsp;Dave Mullins is one of six speakers and panelists for the summit that will focus on key issues challenging today's manufacturers. The day-long forum provides the opportunity to network, learn about manufacturing resources and industry trends, and gain insight into workforce development.The summit is part of the month-long celebration of National Manufacturing Month and is led by the Kansas Manufacturing Council, in partnership with Kansas Manufacturing Solutions, Pittsburg State University and the Kansas Chamber.The winner of the <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001baP_nuYFwiK8amIyRKDjzACxAss27RdOh2glJR9Vs4wkCK23mQXZYkLWuEi7w8pcahPFcRMJT3EF36uMIht9g9AXX_lVV6py5uG3HeDxFqKX9txulLv_7eu4K5hyKSqBCIKc7paCApiGSIc1RgIdsgRFBfnZtyRO_U3cS9BtkT_4U0SuyMH6kw==&amp;c=cK-uqeFXFqcZBmp1LzpHAbB_BE7fQgFKQPky6Lf3ouVUz1xxIsNrig==&amp;ch=1EJx1_1sRY0rc11gU8GZAOhZxdSkRsU6qi9wrHvNNNtl3KSU3nN_1w==">2020 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>&nbsp;will also be announced during the summit. The competition features 16 nominated Kansas-made products that compete in a product head-to-head tournament. The top four companies will be invited to display their products at the summit.

Mullins to speak at Kansas Manufacturing Summit


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Schools in Reno County will remain in the yellow zone by the county's gating criteria for next week.

The numbers appear to have taken a bit of a step back, with 91 positive cases in 14 days as of Friday and a positive test rate of 9.7%. 

Buhler USD 313 is looking at changing its approach to the gating criteria.

"We are looking at some modifications to our gating criteria that we need to both vet through our admin team a little bit more, through some staff and then also our board of education," said superintendent Cindy Couchman. "We will release the updates, assuming that we do update it, early next week."

At least right now it looks like Buhler Grade School will be allowed to reopen when expected.

"Yes, they are," Couchman said. "They're going to be back on Wednesday. We are waiting on one more test result. The others came back. I'm feeling pretty good about it."

As of Friday there are 7 active cases in USD 313 and 89 connected people under quarantine.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Schools in Reno County will remain in the yellow zone by the county's gating criteria for next week.The numbers appear to have taken a bit of a step back, with 91 positive cases in 14 days as of Friday and a positive test rate of 9.7%. Buhler USD 313 is looking at changing its approach to the gating criteria."We are looking at some modifications to our gating criteria that we need to both vet through our admin team a little bit more, through some staff and then also our board of education," said superintendent Cindy Couchman. "We will release the updates, assuming that we do update it, early next week."At least right now it looks like Buhler Grade School will be allowed to reopen when expected."Yes, they are," Couchman said. "They're going to be back on Wednesday. We are waiting on one more test result. The others came back. I'm feeling pretty good about it."As of Friday there are 7 active cases in USD 313 and 89 connected people under quarantine.

County schools in yellow for next week, USD 313 looking at gating criteria modification


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;This week is Child Passenger Safety Week.

"It's really just an opportunity for us to talk with families about why correct use of child restraints and seatbelts is so important and how parents and caregivers can access different resources across the state to be confident that their children are riding as safely as possible," said Cherie Sage with Safe Kids Kansas.

You don't have to spend for the highest end car seat to be safe.

"As long as it meets the federal motor vehicle safety standards, you can rest assured that that car seat is safe," Sage said. "It doesn't matter whether you're getting a car seat that is $65 or $300. Both of those should keep your child safe."

You do need to know the history of the car seat if you're going to buy used or get a hand-me-down.

"If a car seat has already been even in a minor crash, maybe visually it looks just fine, the fact is that car seat is designed to work perfectly once," Sage said. "Any other stress that might happen, it might not even be visual, but it might not perform the next time you're in a crash."

If you are in a crash with a car seat in the car, even if no one is in it, get rid of it and get a new one.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;This week is Child Passenger Safety Week."It's really just an opportunity for us to talk with families about why correct use of child restraints and seatbelts is so important and how parents and caregivers can access different resources across the state to be confident that their children are riding as safely as possible," said Cherie Sage with Safe Kids Kansas.You don't have to spend for the highest end car seat to be safe."As long as it meets the federal motor vehicle safety standards, you can rest assured that that car seat is safe," Sage said. "It doesn't matter whether you're getting a car seat that is $65 or $300. Both of those should keep your child safe."You do need to know the history of the car seat if you're going to buy used or get a hand-me-down."If a car seat has already been even in a minor crash, maybe visually it looks just fine, the fact is that car seat is designed to work perfectly once," Sage said. "Any other stress that might happen, it might not even be visual, but it might not perform the next time you're in a crash."If you are in a crash with a car seat in the car, even if no one is in it, get rid of it and get a new one.

Safe car seats don't have to be expensive, but you need to know crash history

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — September sales tax collections for Reno County continued in a&nbsp; positive trend.

The numbers for the month totaled $414,803. The number is the highest ever with the exception of last year when the total was just under $502,000. But that number is misleading as it includes residual revenue left over from the retirement of the ¼ -cent sales tax for the Reno County Correctional Facility.

When compared to 2018 the sales tax for 2020 was more than $71,000 higher. Sales tax figures have increased each of the past four months despite the pandemic-driven economy.&nbsp;

Sales tax figures for this month reflect sales for the month of July.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — September sales tax collections for Reno County continued in a&nbsp; positive trend.The numbers for the month totaled $414,803. The number is the highest ever with the exception of last year when the total was just under $502,000. But that number is misleading as it includes residual revenue left over from the retirement of the ¼ -cent sales tax for the Reno County Correctional Facility.When compared to 2018 the sales tax for 2020 was more than $71,000 higher. Sales tax figures have increased each of the past four months despite the pandemic-driven economy.&nbsp;Sales tax figures for this month reflect sales for the month of July.

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