TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), has revised its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.

Camp Hawk Lake in Harvey County has been downgraded from warning to watch status.

A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.

Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.

Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.

Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.

Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable. They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment. If there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), has revised its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.Camp Hawk Lake in Harvey County has been downgraded from warning to watch status.A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable. They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment. If there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

Blue green algae watch in effect for Camp Hawk Lake in Harvey County

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The <a href="https://purpleribbon.fromthelandofkansas.com/">Purple Ribbon Marketplace</a> is an initiative of the From the Land of Kansas program to help merchants sell that would normally do so at the Kansas State Fair.

"We would normally be at the state fair in the Pride of Kansas building selling a lot of our members' products," said Janelle Dobbins the Kansas Department of Agriculture's From the Land of Kansas Marketing Manager. "When the fair had to close this year, we looked for other opportunities and what we could do, so we decided to create this Purple Ribbon Marketplace, having an opportunity that our businesses could sell on the site. All those fairgoers could go on and shop and still get those great products, but this time just get them delivered to their door versus shopping for them at the fair."

From the Land of Kansas is the state trademark program.

"We're designed to promote and celebrate agricultural experiences and products grown, raised or produced in Kansas," Dobbins said. "That may be anything from seeing the logo on products being sold in a grocery store to helping someone get started at a farmer's market, all the way up to, some of our members are large enough, they are exporting outside the state."

A variety of Kansas products are offered through the Purple Ribbon Marketplace including popcorn, cheese, sunflower oil, coffee, spice and dip mixes, sauerkraut, and honey. A Kansas distillery will also be selling their hand sanitizer.

"One thing definitely we see across the board for all Kansas products is the pride that all of these businesses take in their products," Dobbins said. "A lot of them truly are hand packed, hand sealed. They're really fresh products."

Receive ½ off shipping with the code EARLYBIRD on Friday and receive some deals such as Buy 2, Get 1 Free. The Purple Ribbon Marketplace will remain live through September 20.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The <a href="https://purpleribbon.fromthelandofkansas.com/">Purple Ribbon Marketplace</a> is an initiative of the From the Land of Kansas program to help merchants sell that would normally do so at the Kansas State Fair."We would normally be at the state fair in the Pride of Kansas building selling a lot of our members' products," said Janelle Dobbins the Kansas Department of Agriculture's From the Land of Kansas Marketing Manager. "When the fair had to close this year, we looked for other opportunities and what we could do, so we decided to create this Purple Ribbon Marketplace, having an opportunity that our businesses could sell on the site. All those fairgoers could go on and shop and still get those great products, but this time just get them delivered to their door versus shopping for them at the fair."From the Land of Kansas is the state trademark program."We're designed to promote and celebrate agricultural experiences and products grown, raised or produced in Kansas," Dobbins said. "That may be anything from seeing the logo on products being sold in a grocery store to helping someone get started at a farmer's market, all the way up to, some of our members are large enough, they are exporting outside the state."A variety of Kansas products are offered through the Purple Ribbon Marketplace including popcorn, cheese, sunflower oil, coffee, spice and dip mixes, sauerkraut, and honey. A Kansas distillery will also be selling their hand sanitizer."One thing definitely we see across the board for all Kansas products is the pride that all of these businesses take in their products," Dobbins said. "A lot of them truly are hand packed, hand sealed. They're really fresh products."Receive ½ off shipping with the code EARLYBIRD on Friday and receive some deals such as Buy 2, Get 1 Free. The Purple Ribbon Marketplace will remain live through September 20.

Purple Ribbon Marketplace live for Kansas products

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — During the You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign just completed, the Hutchinson Police Department conducted overtime saturation patrols to aggressively enforce Kansas impaired driving laws. During the campaign, officers made 7 impaired driving arrests. 176 vehicle stops were made during the campaign.

"If you were stopped you hopefully learned from your experience," Chief Jeff Hooper said. "You can count on this department to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws, not just during this enforcement campaign but all through the year. We enforce traffic laws because those laws help everyone that we share the road with. We will continue to do so because, while the You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign may be over; traffic enforcement never is.”

The You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign was sponsored by the Kansas Department of Transportation.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — During the You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign just completed, the Hutchinson Police Department conducted overtime saturation patrols to aggressively enforce Kansas impaired driving laws. During the campaign, officers made 7 impaired driving arrests. 176 vehicle stops were made during the campaign."If you were stopped you hopefully learned from your experience," Chief Jeff Hooper said. "You can count on this department to vigorously enforce impaired driving and other traffic laws, not just during this enforcement campaign but all through the year. We enforce traffic laws because those laws help everyone that we share the road with. We will continue to do so because, while the You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign may be over; traffic enforcement never is.”The You Drink. You Drive. You Lose. campaign was sponsored by the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Hutchinson PD announces enforcement campaign results

CINCINNATI — The Kroger Co., parent company of Dillons, reported its <a href="http://ir.kroger.com/CorporateProfile/press-releases/press-release/2020/Kroger-Reports-Second-Quarter-2020-Results-and-Updates-Full-Year-2020-Guidance/default.aspx">second quarter 2020 results on Friday.</a>

Total company sales were $30.5 billion in the second quarter, compared to $28.2 billion for the same period last year. 

Excluding fuel, sales grew 13.9%. Digital sales grew 127%. Kroger reported an operating Profit of $820 million. 

As of Friday's report, the company believes its 2021 business results will be higher than would have been expected prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company also authorized a $1 billion share repurchase program, replacing a previous authorization in 2019.

Earlier this year, Kroger increased the dividend by 13%, marking the 14th consecutive year of dividend increases. 

<figure>
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 </figure>CINCINNATI — The Kroger Co., parent company of Dillons, reported its <a href="http://ir.kroger.com/CorporateProfile/press-releases/press-release/2020/Kroger-Reports-Second-Quarter-2020-Results-and-Updates-Full-Year-2020-Guidance/default.aspx">second quarter 2020 results on Friday.</a>Total company sales were $30.5 billion in the second quarter, compared to $28.2 billion for the same period last year. Excluding fuel, sales grew 13.9%. Digital sales grew 127%. Kroger reported an operating Profit of $820 million. As of Friday's report, the company believes its 2021 business results will be higher than would have been expected prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.The company also authorized a $1 billion share repurchase program, replacing a previous authorization in 2019.Earlier this year, Kroger increased the dividend by 13%, marking the 14th consecutive year of dividend increases.

Kroger reports 2nd Quarter results

Release from U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister

WICHITA, KAN. – Gage H. Clausen, 20, Cheney, is charged with one count of making a threat via interstate communications. The crime is alleged to have occurred June 27, 2020, in Cheney.

Clausen is alleged to have used social media to send a threat to a 15-year-old student at Derby High School. The threat was couched in racist language and referred to the victim as a “filthy farm animal.”

If convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.

In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.

Editor's Note: The original release incorrectly listed Cheney as the 15-year-old student's school.

<figure>
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 </figure>Release from U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllisterWICHITA, KAN. – Gage H. Clausen, 20, Cheney, is charged with one count of making a threat via interstate communications. The crime is alleged to have occurred June 27, 2020, in Cheney.Clausen is alleged to have used social media to send a threat to a 15-year-old student at Derby High School. The threat was couched in racist language and referred to the victim as a “filthy farm animal.”If convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.Editor's Note: The original release incorrectly listed Cheney as the 15-year-old student's school.

Indictment: Cheney man threatened high school student on social media

BUHLER, Kan.
— 
Buhler USD 313 released their plan for using the gating criteria for their district Friday morning.

Each Friday the Reno County Health Department releases the 14 day positive test rate and the 14 day new case average. This is the second week in a rolling two week average for schools. The data released dictates the gating criteria color to be followed for the coming week.   

Until the community testing rate gets to 1.8% of the population for a 2 week period, new cases will be used for determining criteria color. 

The numbers as of Friday are, 14 Day PTR-9/11, 7.30% and 14 Day New Case-9/11, 67. This is down from last week.

Starting Monday, September 14th USD 313 schools will be in the yellow zone. This means on-site learning will continue with grade-level recess only and grades 6-12 will go to modified transitions.

Travel to sporting events will include only active participants. 

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 </figure>BUHLER, Kan.
— 
Buhler USD 313 released their plan for using the gating criteria for their district Friday morning.Each Friday the Reno County Health Department releases the 14 day positive test rate and the 14 day new case average. This is the second week in a rolling two week average for schools. The data released dictates the gating criteria color to be followed for the coming week. Until the community testing rate gets to 1.8% of the population for a 2 week period, new cases will be used for determining criteria color. The numbers as of Friday are, 14 Day PTR-9/11, 7.30% and 14 Day New Case-9/11, 67. This is down from last week.Starting Monday, September 14th USD 313 schools will be in the yellow zone. This means on-site learning will continue with grade-level recess only and grades 6-12 will go to modified transitions.Travel to sporting events will include only active participants.

Reno County in yellow for upcoming school week, according to USD 313

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;As the weather has cooled this week, prices at the pump have begun what may be a downward trend toward winter.

"Since last Friday, the average price for a gallon of gasoline in Kansas has dropped one cent to $1.99 a gallon," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's 3 cents more than a month ago, but still significantly cheaper, by 36 cents than we were a year ago."

"Here in Reno County, we're at $1.98, a cent cheaper than the statewide average," Steward said. "Hutchinson is right at the state average of $1.99. Kansas $1.99 a gallon registers as 11th cheapest in the country this week."

There's more gas in the system now than there has been recently.

"The stocks of gasoline on hand rose in the past week," Steward said. "That, coupled with the lower demand that we've seen at the pumps has driven the prices down slightly. We anticipate that trend to continue as we head into the cooler fall months."

Also, the less expensive to produce winter blend of gasoline will begin to make its appearance at the pumps in the next month or so.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As the weather has cooled this week, prices at the pump have begun what may be a downward trend toward winter."Since last Friday, the average price for a gallon of gasoline in Kansas has dropped one cent to $1.99 a gallon," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's 3 cents more than a month ago, but still significantly cheaper, by 36 cents than we were a year ago."Demand for gas is down right now."Here in Reno County, we're at $1.98, a cent cheaper than the statewide average," Steward said. "Hutchinson is right at the state average of $1.99. Kansas $1.99 a gallon registers as 11th cheapest in the country this week."There's more gas in the system now than there has been recently."The stocks of gasoline on hand rose in the past week," Steward said. "That, coupled with the lower demand that we've seen at the pumps has driven the prices down slightly. We anticipate that trend to continue as we head into the cooler fall months."Also, the less expensive to produce winter blend of gasoline will begin to make its appearance at the pumps in the next month or so.

Kansas gas prices likely beginning seasonal drop

RENO COUNTY — 
During the You Drink, You Drive, You Lose campaign that was conducted from Aug 20-Sept 7, 2020, the Reno County Sheriff's Office increased patrols to enforce Kansas impaired driving laws. 

Deputies arrested 3 drivers for DUI involving alcohol or drugs, made 5 drug arrests, 2 other traffic arrests, and issued 10 other citations for traffic violations. 35 traffic stops were made during these saturation patrols. 

The You Drink, You Drive, You Lose campaign was sponsored and funded by the Kansas Department of Transportation.

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 </figure>RENO COUNTY — 
During the You Drink, You Drive, You Lose campaign that was conducted from Aug 20-Sept 7, 2020, the Reno County Sheriff's Office increased patrols to enforce Kansas impaired driving laws. Deputies arrested 3 drivers for DUI involving alcohol or drugs, made 5 drug arrests, 2 other traffic arrests, and issued 10 other citations for traffic violations. 35 traffic stops were made during these saturation patrols. The You Drink, You Drive, You Lose campaign was sponsored and funded by the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Sheriff's Office tells enforcement numbers


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;There is an event coming up this weekend to test people from Reno County who don't believe they've ever had COVID-19.

"We're trying to target people that aren't having symptoms, that have not been a direct contact, haven't traveled out of state," said Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "The reason we're doing that is we want to see, you know, what we have going that is asymptomatic. If you're sick, we do want you to go to your provider so that you can be cared for."

This is the second straight weekend of testing. In week one, employees and their families from USD 308 and USD 313 were the focus again for asymptomatic cases.

"Those are the ones that go undetected," Hammersmith said. "Those are the ones that could spread more in our community that we're not catching," Hammersmith said. "If we can catch some of those in a community testing drive, then we can go ahead and narrow that down quickly and hopefully not have cases spread."

The focus this week is the Haven and Nickerson school districts, but all are welcome, as long as you don't have symptoms.

"It will be Saturday, September 12 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.," Hammersmith said. "We need 250 swabs. It's at the Hutchinson Clinic. They do it at the northwest corner of the Hutch Clinic parking lot. That's just under the 2107 area."

The Reno County Commission has approved spending the money for 250 tests a week for the month of September in an effort to keep the county's schools open.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;There is an event coming up this weekend to test people from Reno County who don't believe they've ever had COVID-19."We're trying to target people that aren't having symptoms, that have not been a direct contact, haven't traveled out of state," said Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "The reason we're doing that is we want to see, you know, what we have going that is asymptomatic. If you're sick, we do want you to go to your provider so that you can be cared for."This is the second straight weekend of testing. In week one, employees and their families from USD 308 and USD 313 were the focus again for asymptomatic cases."Those are the ones that go undetected," Hammersmith said. "Those are the ones that could spread more in our community that we're not catching," Hammersmith said. "If we can catch some of those in a community testing drive, then we can go ahead and narrow that down quickly and hopefully not have cases spread."The focus this week is the Haven and Nickerson school districts, but all are welcome, as long as you don't have symptoms."It will be Saturday, September 12 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.," Hammersmith said. "We need 250 swabs. It's at the Hutchinson Clinic. They do it at the northwest corner of the Hutch Clinic parking lot. That's just under the 2107 area."The Reno County Commission has approved spending the money for 250 tests a week for the month of September in an effort to keep the county's schools open.

Asymptomatic COVID-19 testing event Saturday in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Jackson Swearer with StartUp Hutch talked to the County Commission Tuesday about the rebranding of the Qwest Center and the emphasis that has changed since he got there.

"This is all a bit of an experiment," Swearer said. "This is year one of five years of an action plan that's built around trying new things and working to improve our community incrementally in small steps and that means not being afraid to try things that don't work."

One of the things that hasn't worked as well recently is in person events, though Swearer believes that is mainly because of the pandemic.

"I don't like this word fail," Swearer said. "Nothing ever fails if you learn something from it. A couple of our in person meetups maybe weren't as successful as I'd like. Maybe we can learn a little bit about that, lean into some of our virtual offerings and circle back to some in person things when we can get outside next spring or when the pandemic has finally passed us."

Swearer believes that when life is different than it ever has been before, it's time to innovate.

"I just want to encourage the community to try new experiments," Swearer said. "This extends into entrepreneurial activity, as well. We need to try different things. Jump out there, give it a shot and see what works. With a little bit of planning and a little bit of willingness to try something new, I think we can create great things."

StartUp Hutch fosters an entrepreneur community through online and in-person activities and helps entrepreneurs navigate the business start-up process. It also provides services such as loan assistance, business plan review and succession planning.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Jackson Swearer with StartUp Hutch talked to the County Commission Tuesday about the rebranding of the Qwest Center and the emphasis that has changed since he got there."This is all a bit of an experiment," Swearer said. "This is year one of five years of an action plan that's built around trying new things and working to improve our community incrementally in small steps and that means not being afraid to try things that don't work."One of the things that hasn't worked as well recently is in person events, though Swearer believes that is mainly because of the pandemic."I don't like this word fail," Swearer said. "Nothing ever fails if you learn something from it. A couple of our in person meetups maybe weren't as successful as I'd like. Maybe we can learn a little bit about that, lean into some of our virtual offerings and circle back to some in person things when we can get outside next spring or when the pandemic has finally passed us."Swearer believes that when life is different than it ever has been before, it's time to innovate."I just want to encourage the community to try new experiments," Swearer said. "This extends into entrepreneurial activity, as well. We need to try different things. Jump out there, give it a shot and see what works. With a little bit of planning and a little bit of willingness to try something new, I think we can create great things."StartUp Hutch fosters an entrepreneur community through online and in-person activities and helps entrepreneurs navigate the business start-up process. It also provides services such as loan assistance, business plan review and succession planning.

Swearer gives County Commission StartUp Hutch update


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
At the end of the day Thursday, Reno County had just 89 active cases of COVID-19.

According to the Reno County dashboard, only 40 cases remain at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility and just one other cluster related case is active, that at Hutchinson Community College.

There hasn't been a large impact on the community's positive test rate yet, as it is still at 7.10% heading into the first day of decisions for school districts on gating criteria on Friday. 

Though community-wide testing has started with work last Saturday, there still haven't been enough tests for districts to use the positive testing rate metric to decide where they fall on the gating criteria. 

The number they will use is 14-day new case count. That number has not yet been released, but Buhler USD 313 said on Facebook this week that an email will be sent to all PowerSchool contacts in its district on Friday mornings at 11:30 with the Safety Zone decision for the following week. 

The other districts in the county have not released how they will tell parents about the weekly updates.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
At the end of the day Thursday, Reno County had just 89 active cases of COVID-19.According to the Reno County dashboard, only 40 cases remain at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility and just one other cluster related case is active, that at Hutchinson Community College.There hasn't been a large impact on the community's positive test rate yet, as it is still at 7.10% heading into the first day of decisions for school districts on gating criteria on Friday. Though community-wide testing has started with work last Saturday, there still haven't been enough tests for districts to use the positive testing rate metric to decide where they fall on the gating criteria. The number they will use is 14-day new case count. That number has not yet been released, but Buhler USD 313 said on Facebook this week that an email will be sent to all PowerSchool contacts in its district on Friday mornings at 11:30 with the Safety Zone decision for the following week. The other districts in the county have not released how they will tell parents about the weekly updates.

Just 89 active cases as of Thursday with first school gating decision date Friday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A doctor with the Hutchinson Clinic is encouraging residents to get their flu shot this season for many reasons.

"We're going into a viral season with RSV and influenza and a lot of the other common cold viruses all of which will make a very interesting winter month and flu season for us," said Dr. Michael Little. "With all of that in mind, we really want to encourage the community to get their flu vaccine to help, one, prevent the illness for them, prevent hospitalization for them and certainly help the health care community be able to tease out which one of those are COVID and hopefully keep the flu curve flat, if you will."

It's also about conserving testing resources for both COVID and the flu. If they don't know which you have, you have to get multiple swabs.

"Currently, we need two swabs," Little said. "There is technology that's there and hopefully expanding that can be ran on the same machine, but that technology's at least not commercially available here in Hutch. For those reasons, it's two swabs currently at this point."

There also, at least right now, is enough vaccine to go around.

"Manufacturers have really been ramped up over the summer months preparing for this," Little said. "We have adequate flu supply at this point, we think to get us through the season. We are not triaging or prioritizing any patient group at this point. We'd like every eligible person to get their flu vaccine six months on up through adult life."

Flu shots are now available in the Hutchinson Clinic walk-in-clinics, by appointment in primary care offices and during each of the public flu shot clinics listed below. Please bring your I.D. and insurance information.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A doctor with the Hutchinson Clinic is encouraging residents to get their flu shot this season for many reasons."We're going into a viral season with RSV and influenza and a lot of the other common cold viruses all of which will make a very interesting winter month and flu season for us," said Dr. Michael Little. "With all of that in mind, we really want to encourage the community to get their flu vaccine to help, one, prevent the illness for them, prevent hospitalization for them and certainly help the health care community be able to tease out which one of those are COVID and hopefully keep the flu curve flat, if you will."It's also about conserving testing resources for both COVID and the flu. If they don't know which you have, you have to get multiple swabs."Currently, we need two swabs," Little said. "There is technology that's there and hopefully expanding that can be ran on the same machine, but that technology's at least not commercially available here in Hutch. For those reasons, it's two swabs currently at this point."There also, at least right now, is enough vaccine to go around."Manufacturers have really been ramped up over the summer months preparing for this," Little said. "We have adequate flu supply at this point, we think to get us through the season. We are not triaging or prioritizing any patient group at this point. We'd like every eligible person to get their flu vaccine six months on up through adult life."Flu shots are now available in the Hutchinson Clinic walk-in-clinics, by appointment in primary care offices and during each of the public flu shot clinics listed below. Please bring your I.D. and insurance information.<figure>
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Get your flu shot to keep you safe, conserve supplies


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith commented on the policy change put out Thursday by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment no longer requesting quarantine for those who attend events out of state with more than 500 people.

"You can get into a stadium outside and still be able to social distance when you don't fill it to capacity compared to a small venue even with less people there," Hammersmith said. "People just have to use a lot of common sense."

The relaxing of the restrictions was announced just hours before the Kansas City Chiefs open the defense of their Super Bowl title at home at Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday night.

"Basically, it doesn't even matter the size," Hammersmith said. "Obviously, if you can't social distance, I would not encourage you to attend that event. It makes a big difference. If you're in a stadium at a football game, you can obviously social distance a little bit more than if you go inside a gym."

Hammersmith is pleased with the crowd size precautions being taken by local schools for their events and how hard the local community has worked together to slow the spread of COVID-19.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith commented on the policy change put out Thursday by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment no longer requesting quarantine for those who attend events out of state with more than 500 people."You can get into a stadium outside and still be able to social distance when you don't fill it to capacity compared to a small venue even with less people there," Hammersmith said. "People just have to use a lot of common sense."The relaxing of the restrictions was announced just hours before the Kansas City Chiefs open the defense of their Super Bowl title at home at Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday night."Basically, it doesn't even matter the size," Hammersmith said. "Obviously, if you can't social distance, I would not encourage you to attend that event. It makes a big difference. If you're in a stadium at a football game, you can obviously social distance a little bit more than if you go inside a gym."Hammersmith is pleased with the crowd size precautions being taken by local schools for their events and how hard the local community has worked together to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Hammersmith: Distancing key no matter the size of the event

RENO COUNTY— A Haven man was taken to a local hospital after an accident Thursday morning in Reno County.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, at 5:50 a.m., deputies were dispatched to the intersection of K-96 highway and Arlington Rd. for an injury accident. A Ford Ranger, driven by 58-year-old Rex Fishburn of Haven was in the south ditch and a Chevy Impala driven by 20-year-old Jakob Imig of Wichita was in the north ditch. 

Deputies believe the Impala came from behind and struck the Ranger in the rear. This collision caused Fishburn to lose control of his vehicle, leave the roadway to the left, cross the median, cross both lanes of east bound traffic, and come to a rest in the ditch. 

Fishburn reported neck and head injuries and was transported by Haven EMS to a local hospital for his injuries. Imig was not hurt. Both drivers were buckled up.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY— A Haven man was taken to a local hospital after an accident Thursday morning in Reno County.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, at 5:50 a.m., deputies were dispatched to the intersection of K-96 highway and Arlington Rd. for an injury accident. A Ford Ranger, driven by 58-year-old Rex Fishburn of Haven was in the south ditch and a Chevy Impala driven by 20-year-old Jakob Imig of Wichita was in the north ditch. Deputies believe the Impala came from behind and struck the Ranger in the rear. This collision caused Fishburn to lose control of his vehicle, leave the roadway to the left, cross the median, cross both lanes of east bound traffic, and come to a rest in the ditch. Fishburn reported neck and head injuries and was transported by Haven EMS to a local hospital for his injuries. Imig was not hurt. Both drivers were buckled up.

Haven man injured in Thursday accident


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Cosmosphere has reduced its hours for the winter following the Labor Day holiday.

"The pandemic has impacted all businesses," said Cosmosphere CEO Jim Remar. "It's especially hit the tourism and hospitality sectors, food and beverage. We made a decision to shorten our operating hours as a cost-saving measure, but those two days that we decided to close, Monday and Tuesday were two of our slower days and we felt that most traffic occurred Wednesday through Sunday anyway. We feel that if someone was going to come on Monday or Tuesday, they're also going to be inclined to come Wednesday through Sunday."

One of the difficult pieces for the Cosmosphere is the first time many kids come is on a school bus.

"The current restrictions are making school field trips something that we probably won't see as much as we would in the past for the foreseeable future," Remar said. "What we're doing to combat that is now working to develop more virtual content so if the school can't come here, we're looking at how we can get into the classroom."

Another source of struggle is that traveling exhibits don't travel to closed venues.

"Right now, the touring exhibition industry has been hit hard," Remar said Thursday. "In fact, I'll be on a webinar this afternoon with various individuals talking specifically about traveling exhibitions. We have obviously done a number of exhibits and artifact rentals over the years, in fact, rolled out our exhibit and artifact rental program early this year and began to gain some really nice traction, and unfortunately, COVID hit."

Remar expects things to bounce back for traveling exhibits, but it may be a year or two before it gets to where the Cosmosphere would like to see it. Currently, the Cosmosphere is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Masks are required at the Cosmosphere.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584388004236.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Cosmosphere has reduced its hours for the winter following the Labor Day holiday."The pandemic has impacted all businesses," said Cosmosphere CEO Jim Remar. "It's especially hit the tourism and hospitality sectors, food and beverage. We made a decision to shorten our operating hours as a cost-saving measure, but those two days that we decided to close, Monday and Tuesday were two of our slower days and we felt that most traffic occurred Wednesday through Sunday anyway. We feel that if someone was going to come on Monday or Tuesday, they're also going to be inclined to come Wednesday through Sunday."One of the difficult pieces for the Cosmosphere is the first time many kids come is on a school bus."The current restrictions are making school field trips something that we probably won't see as much as we would in the past for the foreseeable future," Remar said. "What we're doing to combat that is now working to develop more virtual content so if the school can't come here, we're looking at how we can get into the classroom."Another source of struggle is that traveling exhibits don't travel to closed venues."Right now, the touring exhibition industry has been hit hard," Remar said Thursday. "In fact, I'll be on a webinar this afternoon with various individuals talking specifically about traveling exhibitions. We have obviously done a number of exhibits and artifact rentals over the years, in fact, rolled out our exhibit and artifact rental program early this year and began to gain some really nice traction, and unfortunately, COVID hit."Remar expects things to bounce back for traveling exhibits, but it may be a year or two before it gets to where the Cosmosphere would like to see it. Currently, the Cosmosphere is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Masks are required at the Cosmosphere.

Many areas of Cosmosphere business changed by COVID-19

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Thursday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 F250 pickup driven by Marcus Scott&nbsp;Ehrhardt, 31, Herington,&nbsp;was westbound at milemarker 236 of U.S. 56 highway in Galva.

The pickup struck a 2007 Kenworth semi driven by Steven Dale&nbsp;Albrecht, 60, Salina, that was pulling out of a driveway to go eastbound on U.S. 56.

The pickup then struck two parked vehicles and a pedestrian identified as Troy Daryl&nbsp;Regier, 62, Canton, in the parking lot of the welding shop.

EMS transported&nbsp;Regier to Wesley Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries.

Ehrhardt and&nbsp;Albrecht were not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Thursday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 F250 pickup driven by Marcus Scott&nbsp;Ehrhardt, 31, Herington,&nbsp;was westbound at milemarker 236 of U.S. 56 highway in Galva.The pickup struck a 2007 Kenworth semi driven by Steven Dale&nbsp;Albrecht, 60, Salina, that was pulling out of a driveway to go eastbound on U.S. 56.The pickup then struck two parked vehicles and a pedestrian identified as Troy Daryl&nbsp;Regier, 62, Canton, in the parking lot of the welding shop.EMS transported&nbsp;Regier to Wesley Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries.Ehrhardt and&nbsp;Albrecht were not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized after pickup strikes semi, pedestrian


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department confirms a second local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 died September 8, 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.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department confirms a second local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 died September 8, 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.

Second death in Reno County attributed to COVID-19 announced

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested and booked into jail Wednesday on aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery and aggravated burglary charges. 

Twenty-two-year-old Blake Kayden Bryant is said to have threatened 48-year-old Scott A. McCoy with a knife and attempted to steal his vehicle in the 1600 block of East 17th Avenue Tuesday evening.

Bryant was also jailed on an aggravated arson charge and a criminal damage charge from earlier incidents that evening. 

Bryant is also on parole following a 2016 conviction for robbery and conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597182198955.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested and booked into jail Wednesday on aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery and aggravated burglary charges. Twenty-two-year-old Blake Kayden Bryant is said to have threatened 48-year-old Scott A. McCoy with a knife and attempted to steal his vehicle in the 1600 block of East 17th Avenue Tuesday evening.Bryant was also jailed on an aggravated arson charge and a criminal damage charge from earlier incidents that evening. Bryant is also on parole following a 2016 conviction for robbery and conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery.Bond is set for Bryant at $143,000.

Hutchinson man arrested on kidnapping, robbery and burglary charges Wednesday

SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of South Hutchinson City Council is planning on offering a housing incentive program for new housing construction, but details are not yet available. 

City Superintendent James Dull said he wants the council to see the final language before publicizing the program.

The council instructed the City Attorney Stan Juhnke to draft a resolution for their review at the council's next meeting. 

That meeting is scheduled for September 21st at 7 p.m. at the community building at 101 West C.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599250546355.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of South Hutchinson City Council is planning on offering a housing incentive program for new housing construction, but details are not yet available. City Superintendent James Dull said he wants the council to see the final language before publicizing the program.The council instructed the City Attorney Stan Juhnke to draft a resolution for their review at the council's next meeting. That meeting is scheduled for September 21st at 7 p.m. at the community building at 101 West C.

South Hutch plans to look at new housing program resolution later this month

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 said in a Facebook post Wednesday it needs all families to complete the f<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.usd308.com%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2FParentResources%2FFree-Reduced-Meal-Application%2520online%2520instructions%255B2%255D.pdf%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3jj3JNRtODXHYNi1eC-VATDao1JYep9WnZYfCcnZ_88bZuDFahI45FSgM&amp;h=AT1sUYKxLTXbGgv6-CDXVGs9TA6BsmFIcCbMESYQbvlkMTdewzrXNBzFTJxka3vdFVgqt89EaDqZtYEt2dYHFKDf8jKdP5pvYIzQ1LNS0NLVe2jvx6ZLnWuIHYToWcW6gQ&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT2e0oz_DRy6fNpKMkUtmrpEZnZn9VFdhsS_t3QVP3LfSpATEgXAWL8kWMkbQ2F0zXffUScwSq-UwRL3zECsd2K2p8vVbi4Iqfi2xdt7ndPkr_2xvDgYY5fR7XFVXoVemDqxkKWpG3d5MNnQCTqtz5xgpzObOzi4MSX9DzFGP2aTfh4lDJQyXqnhTvCM">ree and reduced food service application</a> in order to create opportunities for the district to receive more funds.

"For people on free meals, we waive textbook fees," said spokesperson Ray Hemman. "For people on reduced meals, we cut that in about half. That's the biggest thing people see from year to year."

Depending on your income, this application also qualifies your student for other services. 

"If, for example, we're able to offer later this year internet access that reaches some of our families, that will be based on the free and reduced application that's turned in now," Hemman said. 

This could help for certain specific grant programs, too.

"If the district has a higher percent who fill it out, even if they're not eligible, there are some grants that look at that positively," Hemman said. "It helps the district maybe in some ways that we don't even know about."

Free and reduced lunch numbers are also used as a proxy for at-risk funding in the state's school finance formula.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 said in a Facebook post Wednesday it needs all families to complete the f<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.usd308.com%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2FParentResources%2FFree-Reduced-Meal-Application%2520online%2520instructions%255B2%255D.pdf%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3jj3JNRtODXHYNi1eC-VATDao1JYep9WnZYfCcnZ_88bZuDFahI45FSgM&amp;h=AT1sUYKxLTXbGgv6-CDXVGs9TA6BsmFIcCbMESYQbvlkMTdewzrXNBzFTJxka3vdFVgqt89EaDqZtYEt2dYHFKDf8jKdP5pvYIzQ1LNS0NLVe2jvx6ZLnWuIHYToWcW6gQ&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT2e0oz_DRy6fNpKMkUtmrpEZnZn9VFdhsS_t3QVP3LfSpATEgXAWL8kWMkbQ2F0zXffUScwSq-UwRL3zECsd2K2p8vVbi4Iqfi2xdt7ndPkr_2xvDgYY5fR7XFVXoVemDqxkKWpG3d5MNnQCTqtz5xgpzObOzi4MSX9DzFGP2aTfh4lDJQyXqnhTvCM">ree and reduced food service application</a> in order to create opportunities for the district to receive more funds. "For people on free meals, we waive textbook fees," said spokesperson Ray Hemman. "For people on reduced meals, we cut that in about half. That's the biggest thing people see from year to year."Depending on your income, this application also qualifies your student for other services. "If, for example, we're able to offer later this year internet access that reaches some of our families, that will be based on the free and reduced application that's turned in now," Hemman said. This could help for certain specific grant programs, too."If the district has a higher percent who fill it out, even if they're not eligible, there are some grants that look at that positively," Hemman said. "It helps the district maybe in some ways that we don't even know about."Free and reduced lunch numbers are also used as a proxy for at-risk funding in the state's school finance formula.

USD 308 calling for all families to fill out free and reduced lunch application


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —  A
record number of 22 projects representing 12 units/entities of
Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) competed for honors in
the seventh annual President’s Quality Awards. The awards program
was established in 2013 to provide departments an opportunity to
annually showcase their performance improvement projects. 



Since the program’s
inception, more than 50 projects have been presented that demonstrate
improved efficiencies, operation and administration of programs and
patient care. Also, a number of the successful projects resulted in a
savings of thousands of dollars in expenditures for HRMC.  


Last
week, Hutch Regional staff representatives selected six finalists and
a group of community leaders picked the top three finishers.


Winning first place is Labor,
Delivery, Recovery and Post-Partem (LDRP) for a project that focused
on early intervention in Newborns who are at risk for hypoglycemia
(low blood sugar). LDRP substituted an oral glucose gel in place of
an IV injection of Dextrose to stabilize the baby’s blood sugar.
The change resulted in increased time for bonding between mother and
child and reduced out of pocket expenses for families. IV usage for
newborns was reduced by 50 percent with plans underway to lower that
number even more in future years.


Second place was won by the
Hutch Regional Pharmacy for a successful program to reduce waste in
usage of TPA (clot busting medication). The cost of a single TPA vial
is $8,500 and the ingredients are good for six hours after mixing.
The project was part of a companion project by the Pharmacy to help
reduce Door-to-Door needle time for stroke alert patients by training
staff in procedures. During the past 12 months, the Door-to-Door
needle time has been reduced to less than 60 minutes which resulted
in a reduction of nearly one third in TPA purchases, a savings of
$78,000. 



Third place was won by the
Nursing Education department for the group’s relaunch of the Nurse
Residency program. The group set a goal of reducing turnover of new
hires in the ICU and ER from 44 percent in 2018 to ten percent or
less last year. The program far exceeded all expectations as not even
one first year nurse left the program during their first year of
employment. The cost to recruit and train each nurse is approximately
$70,000 so the improvement has resulted in a significant favorable
financial impact for HRMC. 



The first, second and third
place finishers will receive $500, $400, and $300 respectively to be
used for a project of their choosing to promote the goals and mission
of Hutch Regional. 


Ken
Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System
commended the work groups for their vision and innovative efforts to
develop a series of improvement projects. “All 22 projects entered
in this year’s competition will be used to improve the quality of
care and overall operation of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System,”
Johnson said. “We are very proud of the employees who not only did
their day-to-day jobs, but spent many hours to design and implement
programs that will have a positive and long-term impact on HRHS.”

Entities
within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System are Health-E-Quip,
Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County,
Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and the Hutchinson Regional
Medical Foundation.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574787528114.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A
record number of 22 projects representing 12 units/entities of
Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) competed for honors in
the seventh annual President’s Quality Awards. The awards program
was established in 2013 to provide departments an opportunity to
annually showcase their performance improvement projects. 

Since the program’s
inception, more than 50 projects have been presented that demonstrate
improved efficiencies, operation and administration of programs and
patient care. Also, a number of the successful projects resulted in a
savings of thousands of dollars in expenditures for HRMC. 
Last
week, Hutch Regional staff representatives selected six finalists and
a group of community leaders picked the top three finishers.
Winning first place is Labor,
Delivery, Recovery and Post-Partem (LDRP) for a project that focused
on early intervention in Newborns who are at risk for hypoglycemia
(low blood sugar). LDRP substituted an oral glucose gel in place of
an IV injection of Dextrose to stabilize the baby’s blood sugar.
The change resulted in increased time for bonding between mother and
child and reduced out of pocket expenses for families. IV usage for
newborns was reduced by 50 percent with plans underway to lower that
number even more in future years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599665192245.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
Second place was won by the
Hutch Regional Pharmacy for a successful program to reduce waste in
usage of TPA (clot busting medication). The cost of a single TPA vial
is $8,500 and the ingredients are good for six hours after mixing.
The project was part of a companion project by the Pharmacy to help
reduce Door-to-Door needle time for stroke alert patients by training
staff in procedures. During the past 12 months, the Door-to-Door
needle time has been reduced to less than 60 minutes which resulted
in a reduction of nearly one third in TPA purchases, a savings of
$78,000. 
<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599665212932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
Third place was won by the
Nursing Education department for the group’s relaunch of the Nurse
Residency program. The group set a goal of reducing turnover of new
hires in the ICU and ER from 44 percent in 2018 to ten percent or
less last year. The program far exceeded all expectations as not even
one first year nurse left the program during their first year of
employment. The cost to recruit and train each nurse is approximately
$70,000 so the improvement has resulted in a significant favorable
financial impact for HRMC. 
<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599665231996.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
The first, second and third
place finishers will receive $500, $400, and $300 respectively to be
used for a project of their choosing to promote the goals and mission
of Hutch Regional. 
Ken
Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System
commended the work groups for their vision and innovative efforts to
develop a series of improvement projects. “All 22 projects entered
in this year’s competition will be used to improve the quality of
care and overall operation of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System,”
Johnson said. “We are very proud of the employees who not only did
their day-to-day jobs, but spent many hours to design and implement
programs that will have a positive and long-term impact on HRHS.”Entities
within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System are Health-E-Quip,
Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County,
Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and the Hutchinson Regional
Medical Foundation.

Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System names President’s Quality Award Winners


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Nonprofits and K-12 private schools will be able to apply for COVID-19 relief through rallyreno.org beginning Sept. 15.

Reno County SPARK Grants will be funded from a $1.089 million portion of the $12 million in federal CARES Act money allocated to Reno County from Gov. Laura Kelly’s SPARK Task Force.

Reno County organizations with IRS nonprofit status and K-12 private schools may apply for aid to offset incurred and planned future expenses or revenue losses related to COVID-19.

A copy of the application is now available for preview at rallyreno.org ahead of next week’s opening of the grant cycle.

"These funds are intended to provide significant financial relief to our local non-profit community. Local non-profit providers have struggled to continue providing services and experienced significant revenue loss during this difficult time created by COVID-19,” Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers said.

Members of the committee overseeing the grants are Reno County Commissioner Bob Bush, Administrator Randy Partington and retired Administrator Gary Meagher; retired Hutchinson City Manager John Deardoff; United Way of Reno County Executive Director Lisa Gleason; Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce President Debra Teufel; and Hutchinson Community Foundation President &amp; CEO Aubrey Abbott Patterson.

Questions about the grant, application or process should be directed to Meagher, <a href="http://meagher.gary@yahoo.com">meagher.gary@yahoo.com</a> or 620-899-1109, or Deardoff,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:johndeardoff@outlook.com" target="_blank">johndeardoff@outlook.com</a>&nbsp;or 620-664-0270.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Nonprofits and K-12 private schools will be able to apply for COVID-19 relief through rallyreno.org beginning Sept. 15.Reno County SPARK Grants will be funded from a $1.089 million portion of the $12 million in federal CARES Act money allocated to Reno County from Gov. Laura Kelly’s SPARK Task Force.Reno County organizations with IRS nonprofit status and K-12 private schools may apply for aid to offset incurred and planned future expenses or revenue losses related to COVID-19.A copy of the application is now available for preview at rallyreno.org ahead of next week’s opening of the grant cycle."These funds are intended to provide significant financial relief to our local non-profit community. Local non-profit providers have struggled to continue providing services and experienced significant revenue loss during this difficult time created by COVID-19,” Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers said.Members of the committee overseeing the grants are Reno County Commissioner Bob Bush, Administrator Randy Partington and retired Administrator Gary Meagher; retired Hutchinson City Manager John Deardoff; United Way of Reno County Executive Director Lisa Gleason; Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce President Debra Teufel; and Hutchinson Community Foundation President &amp; CEO Aubrey Abbott Patterson.Questions about the grant, application or process should be directed to Meagher, <a href="http://meagher.gary@yahoo.com">meagher.gary@yahoo.com</a> or 620-899-1109, or Deardoff,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:johndeardoff@outlook.com" target="_blank">johndeardoff@outlook.com</a>&nbsp;or 620-664-0270.