HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you need to return items, local merchants will work with you

If these items were purchased locally, whether ordered or not, you should be able to return them with little trouble. Every store has its own rules about returns, so check first. The best way to get any return is to keep the receipt.&nbsp;

Ordering online can be a little different. According to Amazon, if you want to return an item, you can do so within 30 days of a purchase or receipt of a gift. Amazon will accept returns without hassle in that time frame. After that period, many items are still eligible for return or replacement if they prove defective.&nbsp;

Most other online stores will only accept returns of unused and unopened items. If it’s clothing, you must keep the tags on the clothing in order to return the purchase. Most online stores have step-by-step instructions for processing a return. Follow the steps and select the reason for the return.

If you purchased locally, you’ll usually get results right away. If you shipped online, prepare to wait at least a few days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1575044961317.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you need to return items, local merchants will work with youIf these items were purchased locally, whether ordered or not, you should be able to return them with little trouble. Every store has its own rules about returns, so check first. The best way to get any return is to keep the receipt.&nbsp;Ordering online can be a little different. According to Amazon, if you want to return an item, you can do so within 30 days of a purchase or receipt of a gift. Amazon will accept returns without hassle in that time frame. After that period, many items are still eligible for return or replacement if they prove defective.&nbsp;Most other online stores will only accept returns of unused and unopened items. If it’s clothing, you must keep the tags on the clothing in order to return the purchase. Most online stores have step-by-step instructions for processing a return. Follow the steps and select the reason for the return.If you purchased locally, you’ll usually get results right away. If you shipped online, prepare to wait at least a few days.

Returning gifts easier if you shopped local

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Wednesday that Jupiter Hills Drive is now open again between Cherry Hills and Spyglass. While there will be some minor work left, the road is open again. The traffic signals at 3rd and Severance are operating again and most of the street work is done in that area as well.&nbsp;

The traffic signals at 4th and Severance are still out after a traffic accident earlier this week and will remain out through at least the holidays.

Another important traffic note, the intersection of 9th and Main is now a controlled crosswalk. The crosswalk is the same as the one along East 11th at the Cosmosphere. When the lights are activated, the lights will be yellow and then turn red. After a short time, the lights will flash red. At that time, if there is no pedestrian traffic in the crosswalk, you may proceed through the intersection.&nbsp;

Both directions of 9th Avenue are now standard stop signs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608758503786.jpeg" alt="New traffic signals at 9th and Main in Hutchinson. The signals are for pedestrian traffic and are similar to the crosswalk on East 11th near the Cosmosphere." />
 <figcaption>New traffic signals at 9th and Main in Hutchinson. The signals are for pedestrian traffic and are similar to the crosswalk on East 11th near the Cosmosphere.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Wednesday that Jupiter Hills Drive is now open again between Cherry Hills and Spyglass. While there will be some minor work left, the road is open again. The traffic signals at 3rd and Severance are operating again and most of the street work is done in that area as well.&nbsp;The traffic signals at 4th and Severance are still out after a traffic accident earlier this week and will remain out through at least the holidays.Another important traffic note, the intersection of 9th and Main is now a controlled crosswalk. The crosswalk is the same as the one along East 11th at the Cosmosphere. When the lights are activated, the lights will be yellow and then turn red. After a short time, the lights will flash red. At that time, if there is no pedestrian traffic in the crosswalk, you may proceed through the intersection.&nbsp;Both directions of 9th Avenue are now standard stop signs.

Traffic notices for Hutchinson streets


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — AAA Travel projects about 7.1 million people in the West North Central region – which includes Kansas – will travel for the year-end holidays, down from 9.6 million in 2019.

"COVID-19 is obviously a big factor on people's minds and in their decisionmaking to stay home," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "The number of holiday travelers in our region is the fewest projected since 2002."

As is usually the case, but even more so this year, the vast majority of the region's travelers, 6.88 million, will be doing so by car.

"There's a lot more control that way," Steward said. "You can have your family unit, you're not being exposed to other people who, you don't know who they've been in contact with."

If you do choose to travel, check with state and local officials along your route and at your destination to learn about local guidance and any restrictions that may be in place.

"Pack the snacks and the things you need instead of needing to go into a convenience store or a rest stop," Steward said. "That's just less contact you have with other folks."

For the purposes of this forecast, the year-end holiday travel period is defined as the period from Wednesday, Dec. 23 to Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580240948974.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — AAA Travel projects about 7.1 million people in the West North Central region – which includes Kansas – will travel for the year-end holidays, down from 9.6 million in 2019."COVID-19 is obviously a big factor on people's minds and in their decisionmaking to stay home," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "The number of holiday travelers in our region is the fewest projected since 2002."As is usually the case, but even more so this year, the vast majority of the region's travelers, 6.88 million, will be doing so by car."There's a lot more control that way," Steward said. "You can have your family unit, you're not being exposed to other people who, you don't know who they've been in contact with."If you do choose to travel, check with state and local officials along your route and at your destination to learn about local guidance and any restrictions that may be in place."Pack the snacks and the things you need instead of needing to go into a convenience store or a rest stop," Steward said. "That's just less contact you have with other folks."For the purposes of this forecast, the year-end holiday travel period is defined as the period from Wednesday, Dec. 23 to Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021.

Lots less travel, says AAA 

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. — Pediatric patients at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center (HRMC) are the benefactors of a toy drive conducted during the holiday season by Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse and the Salt City Chapter of the Guardians of the Children, an international organization dedicated to children and the prevention of child abuse.

Representatives of Hutch Regional were at Lowe’s this morning to pick up the toys at a ceremony attended by several members of a group representing the Guardians of the Children.

Sam White, Assistant Manager of the Hutchinson Lowe’s store, said the donation included games, dolls, stuffed animals and toy trucks.

White said Lowe’s has undertaken a project during each of the past 11 years to benefit children hospitalized at HRMC.

Jill White, RN, BSN, Director of Patient Care Services at HRMC, said toys can be an important part of the recovery process for young patients.

“We have experienced unique challenges for our hospitalized children this year,” White said. “Due to COVID-19 and restrictions we’ve had to implement, children aren’t able to have extra visitors such as siblings to help occupy their time while in the hospital.”

“This year more than ever, the toys and activities have been helpful in making their hospitalization a little brighter,” White continued.

Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said hospitalization may be especially difficult during the holiday season, and in particular, for young children.

“So, it is especially gratifying when a great corporate citizen such as Lowe’s joins forces with Guardians of the Children to assist children who have the misfortune of being hospitalized during the holiday season,” Johnson said. “Thanks to Lowe’s and Guardians of the Children, approximately 200 children will have a more pleasant hospital stay.”

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is an entity of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Other entities are Health-E-Quip, Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; Homecare of Reno County and Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608744436257.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Pediatric patients at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center (HRMC) are the benefactors of a toy drive conducted during the holiday season by Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse and the Salt City Chapter of the Guardians of the Children, an international organization dedicated to children and the prevention of child abuse.Representatives of Hutch Regional were at Lowe’s this morning to pick up the toys at a ceremony attended by several members of a group representing the Guardians of the Children.Sam White, Assistant Manager of the Hutchinson Lowe’s store, said the donation included games, dolls, stuffed animals and toy trucks.White said Lowe’s has undertaken a project during each of the past 11 years to benefit children hospitalized at HRMC.Jill White, RN, BSN, Director of Patient Care Services at HRMC, said toys can be an important part of the recovery process for young patients.“We have experienced unique challenges for our hospitalized children this year,” White said. “Due to COVID-19 and restrictions we’ve had to implement, children aren’t able to have extra visitors such as siblings to help occupy their time while in the hospital.”“This year more than ever, the toys and activities have been helpful in making their hospitalization a little brighter,” White continued.Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said hospitalization may be especially difficult during the holiday season, and in particular, for young children.“So, it is especially gratifying when a great corporate citizen such as Lowe’s joins forces with Guardians of the Children to assist children who have the misfortune of being hospitalized during the holiday season,” Johnson said. “Thanks to Lowe’s and Guardians of the Children, approximately 200 children will have a more pleasant hospital stay.”Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is an entity of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Other entities are Health-E-Quip, Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; Homecare of Reno County and Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.

Lowe's, Guardians of the Children donate toys for HRMC pediatric patients

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Commissioners approved a salary increase for the four
elected officials during Tuesday’s agenda session. 

Under the
resolution, the increase is 3% across the board. Sheriff Darian Campbell will see his pay increase to $93,472; County Register of Deeds Michelle Updegrove will receive $68,592;
Treasurer Brenda Kowitz will now be paid 56,821; and County Clerk Donna Patton
will see an increase to $75,117.

The three county commissioners are not included in the pay increase. There was some
discussion over the increase being too much. Commissioner Ron Sellers noted that they will let
the elected officials know how generous they were this year come next year’s
budget cycle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605646859037.jpeg" alt="Reno County Commission File" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Commission File</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County Commissioners approved a salary increase for the four
elected officials during Tuesday’s agenda session. Under the
resolution, the increase is 3% across the board. Sheriff Darian Campbell will see his pay increase to $93,472; County Register of Deeds Michelle Updegrove will receive $68,592;
Treasurer Brenda Kowitz will now be paid 56,821; and County Clerk Donna Patton
will see an increase to $75,117.The three county commissioners are not included in the pay increase. There was some
discussion over the increase being too much. Commissioner Ron Sellers noted that they will let
the elected officials know how generous they were this year come next year’s
budget cycle.

Elected officials get 3% pay increase from Reno County

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — An investigation continues by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) into an industrial accident at the Hutchinson Tyson plant
last month. 

An official
with the OSHA offices in Wichita confirmed they were investigating the accident
but could not give a time line as to when the investigation will be completed. 

It was just
before 8:30 a.m. November 20 that emergency crews were called to the Tyson
Prepared Foods facility at 521 S. Main.

According to
the Hutchinson Fire Department, a group of contractors were working on the
refrigeration system when ammonia was released.&nbsp;

Two workers were
injured, one of them seriously.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580231689628.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
ROD ZOOK
Hutch
PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — An investigation continues by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) into an industrial accident at the Hutchinson Tyson plant
last month. An official
with the OSHA offices in Wichita confirmed they were investigating the accident
but could not give a time line as to when the investigation will be completed. It was just
before 8:30 a.m. November 20 that emergency crews were called to the Tyson
Prepared Foods facility at 521 S. Main.According to
the Hutchinson Fire Department, a group of contractors were working on the
refrigeration system when ammonia was released.&nbsp;Two workers were
injured, one of them seriously.

OSHA investigation into Tyson accident continues

UPDATE as of 11 a.m. 12-23-2020: According to a release from Hutchinson Regional, they received 850 doses of the Moderna vaccine from the Health Department and Prairie Star. This was in addition to the 257 doses given of the Pfizer vaccine last week. 

The hospital will be working with all healthcare agencies in the county to determine who is available and in what order to give vaccinations. No further information on when more vaccines may be available was given Wednesday. The original story is below.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
As more doses of vaccines come in to Reno County, with the Health Department and Prairie Star having received doses this week, at least with regard to Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, front line workers should be able to get their doses.

"We have about 50 employees at the Health Department," Karen Hammersmith said Tuesday. "Prairie Star employs about 140. The clinic usually runs around 400 employees."

Chuck Welch with the hospital said not all of their employees are considered front line.

"We have roughly 1400 employees," Welch said. "Nine hundred at the hospital itself. Of those 900, probably several hundred of those, probably closer to four or five hundred of those are front line workers."

The latest doses are of the Moderna vaccine. It is not as restrictive in terms of cold storage and rapidity with which it must be administered as the Pfizer vaccine, which <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/054ad392-1591-4aaf-8520-ee13f60784a7">was available first last week</a>, so it should be easier for all those front line workers that want it to be vaccinated.

Both the Pfizer and the Moderna vaccines are a two-shot series.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608739574842.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE as of 11 a.m. 12-23-2020: According to a release from Hutchinson Regional, they received 850 doses of the Moderna vaccine from the Health Department and Prairie Star. This was in addition to the 257 doses given of the Pfizer vaccine last week. The hospital will be working with all healthcare agencies in the county to determine who is available and in what order to give vaccinations. No further information on when more vaccines may be available was given Wednesday. The original story is below.
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
As more doses of vaccines come in to Reno County, with the Health Department and Prairie Star having received doses this week, at least with regard to Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, front line workers should be able to get their doses."We have about 50 employees at the Health Department," Karen Hammersmith said Tuesday. "Prairie Star employs about 140. The clinic usually runs around 400 employees."Chuck Welch with the hospital said not all of their employees are considered front line."We have roughly 1400 employees," Welch said. "Nine hundred at the hospital itself. Of those 900, probably several hundred of those, probably closer to four or five hundred of those are front line workers."The latest doses are of the Moderna vaccine. It is not as restrictive in terms of cold storage and rapidity with which it must be administered as the Pfizer vaccine, which <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/054ad392-1591-4aaf-8520-ee13f60784a7">was available first last week</a>, so it should be easier for all those front line workers that want it to be vaccinated. Both the Pfizer and the Moderna vaccines are a two-shot series.

UPDATE: Enough vaccines now in Reno County for hospital front line workers

The National Weather Service office in Wichita has issued a Red Flag Warning. The warning is in effect from noon today to 5 p.m. this afternoon for extreme grassland fire danger. 

Northwest winds from 30 to 35 miles per hour sustained, with gusts up to 55 miles per hour are possible. 

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608722766479.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service office in Wichita has issued a Red Flag Warning. The warning is in effect from noon today to 5 p.m. this afternoon for extreme grassland fire danger. Northwest winds from 30 to 35 miles per hour sustained, with gusts up to 55 miles per hour are possible. Relative humidity will be as low as 35%.Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Red flag warning in effect Wednesday afternoon

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 670 as of Tuesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 89. The case count is still down from where it was a week ago.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 22 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 69 active cases. Thirty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 6,288 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 659 cases in the community at large. 5,529 people have recovered thus far.

Twenty-four Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred eighty-seven total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 26.15%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.93%. 31.33% of the population has been tested.

There are now two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. Those are available Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., but not on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year's Day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 670 as of Tuesday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 89. The case count is still down from where it was a week ago.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 22 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 69 active cases. Thirty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 6,288 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 659 cases in the community at large. 5,529 people have recovered thus far.Twenty-four Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred eighty-seven total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 26.15%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.93%. 31.33% of the population has been tested.There are now two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. Those are available Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., but not on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year's Day.

Case count at 670, with 659 in community as of Tuesday afternoon

WICHITA, Kan. — A McPherson County man has been charged with crimes involving children, according to&nbsp;U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

Loren Olson, 68, Marquette, Kansas, is charged with four counts of producing child pornography and one count of the sex trafficking of a minor. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in May, June and July 2020 in McPherson County.

Olson initially was charged by criminal complaint Dec. 9, 2020.

If convicted, Olson could face a penalty of not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison on each production count, and not less than 10 years on the other count. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607547648538.png" alt="Olson-photo courtesy of Sedgwick County.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Olson-photo courtesy of Sedgwick County.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — A McPherson County man has been charged with crimes involving children, according to&nbsp;U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.Loren Olson, 68, Marquette, Kansas, is charged with four counts of producing child pornography and one count of the sex trafficking of a minor. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in May, June and July 2020 in McPherson County.Olson initially was charged by criminal complaint Dec. 9, 2020.If convicted, Olson could face a penalty of not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison on each production count, and not less than 10 years on the other count. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting.

McPherson Co. man charged with child sex crimes

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salvation Army has been spending the past two days handing out Christmas toy bundles for those in need. The efforts of three young children certainly made the distribution event better.&nbsp;

Capt. Diana James, better known as DJ, with The Salvation Army says three children, Tucker, Zoie and Joey, were part of an effort to purchase three bicycles and a Nerf gun to distribute.&nbsp;

“I was checking some Facebook messages and a mom reached out to me,” James said. “She said that her son had gone door-to-door selling paper wallets that he had made and he was raising money to get gifts for kids in need.”

At first, James admits she wasn’t expecting the grand total that the youth were able to generate.

“You know, I had no idea how much that would have been, so I said they can get some Nerf guns or maybe something like that,” James said. “And the mom said, 'well he raised $250, is that all you need?'”

Tucker, Zoie and Joey delivered the bicycles to The Salvation Army Tuesday. The donation was part of an overall effort to provide a better Christmas to more than 1,100 children this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608671268942.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salvation Army has been spending the past two days handing out Christmas toy bundles for those in need. The efforts of three young children certainly made the distribution event better.&nbsp;Capt. Diana James, better known as DJ, with The Salvation Army says three children, Tucker, Zoie and Joey, were part of an effort to purchase three bicycles and a Nerf gun to distribute.&nbsp;“I was checking some Facebook messages and a mom reached out to me,” James said. “She said that her son had gone door-to-door selling paper wallets that he had made and he was raising money to get gifts for kids in need.”At first, James admits she wasn’t expecting the grand total that the youth were able to generate.“You know, I had no idea how much that would have been, so I said they can get some Nerf guns or maybe something like that,” James said. “And the mom said, 'well he raised $250, is that all you need?'”Tucker, Zoie and Joey delivered the bicycles to The Salvation Army Tuesday. The donation was part of an overall effort to provide a better Christmas to more than 1,100 children this year.

Local youth donate 3 bicycles to Salvation Army

KINGMAN, Kan. — Survey work will begin starting the first of the year for a major road project in Kingman County.

KDOT says a field survey will start in Kingman County for design of proposed pavement replacement of U.S. 54 and interchange ramps.

The proposed improvement would be from the U.S. 54/K-14 junction east to the Kingman/Sedgwick county line. The approximate length of the survey, which will be based on existing alignment, is 7.1 miles.

The survey is estimated to be completed by May 15.

The survey will be contained within the existing right-of-way, and the consultant will contact property owners and/or tenants for permission to enter private property upon entry.&nbsp;

Motorists are asked to use caution when driving in areas where survey crews are present.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608669421215.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN, Kan. — Survey work will begin starting the first of the year for a major road project in Kingman County.KDOT says a field survey will start in Kingman County for design of proposed pavement replacement of U.S. 54 and interchange ramps.The proposed improvement would be from the U.S. 54/K-14 junction east to the Kingman/Sedgwick county line. The approximate length of the survey, which will be based on existing alignment, is 7.1 miles.The survey is estimated to be completed by May 15.The survey will be contained within the existing right-of-way, and the consultant will contact property owners and/or tenants for permission to enter private property upon entry.&nbsp;Motorists are asked to use caution when driving in areas where survey crews are present.

Survey work to begin for US 54 project

CINCINNATI — The parent company of Dillons will be a part of the nationwide distribution of COVID-19 vaccine.

Kroger Health announced Tuesday that it will provide the COVID-19 vaccine nationwide across its 2,200 pharmacies and 220 clinics, partnering with the federal government and state health departments to administer the vaccine in accordance with the rollout plan.

Now that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized two vaccines, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, Kroger Health will support the phased approach, focusing first on priority populations as defined by federal and state governments. Illustratively, Kroger Health will begin to administer the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in Anchorage and Juneau this week to health care workers in partnership with the state of Alaska. Kroger Health is also engaged in vaccination efforts for prioritized populations in several other geographies.&nbsp;

Kroger continues to advocate on behalf of associates for essential workers to have priority access to the vaccine in line with the organization's efforts earlier this year to help associates access personal protection equipment like masks and gloves.

Kroger Health has also facilitated more than 250,000 COVID-19 tests since April and in October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584974416415.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CINCINNATI — The parent company of Dillons will be a part of the nationwide distribution of COVID-19 vaccine.Kroger Health announced Tuesday that it will provide the COVID-19 vaccine nationwide across its 2,200 pharmacies and 220 clinics, partnering with the federal government and state health departments to administer the vaccine in accordance with the rollout plan.Now that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized two vaccines, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, Kroger Health will support the phased approach, focusing first on priority populations as defined by federal and state governments. Illustratively, Kroger Health will begin to administer the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in Anchorage and Juneau this week to health care workers in partnership with the state of Alaska. Kroger Health is also engaged in vaccination efforts for prioritized populations in several other geographies.&nbsp;Kroger continues to advocate on behalf of associates for essential workers to have priority access to the vaccine in line with the organization's efforts earlier this year to help associates access personal protection equipment like masks and gloves.Kroger Health has also facilitated more than 250,000 COVID-19 tests since April and in October.

Kroger to help with vaccine distribution

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With nearly two hours of discussion, Reno
County Commissioners approved keeping the current health order implemented this week in place until January 18, 2021.

Several heated exchanges took place between medical officials and the commission. The issue surrounded the mandate of wearing masks which has been
a heated topic over the past month.

Commissioner Dr. Mark Steffen who has been outspoken about the use of masks and the state's
mandate on them, got into a spirited exchange with Dr. Scott Pauly about masks.
Steffen also told Commissioner Ron Hirst that he shouldn’t sleep well at night
thinking that wearing a mask will help save lives. Steffen continued to question the Health Department and Pauly on their handling of the pandemic and the current mask
order in place.

Many people spoke both for and against the health order. Aubrey Abbott Patterson with the Hutchinson Community Foundation and Jim Remar of the Cosmosphere both spoke in support of the health order. Resident Robin Jackson was one of several residents who were against the mask order, stating that such a matter should be freely decided upon.

After
several discussions on how to find some common ground, Commissioner Hirst
moved to keep the current health order in place through January 18. That motion
passed 2-1 with Hirst and Ron Sellers supporting it and Steffen opposed.&nbsp; At that time, Steffen said
that the vote showed the Commissioners position for posterity. Steffen then moved
that the county opt out of the state's mandated health order. That was voted
down by a 2-1 margin, with the same split of Hirst and Sellers voting together opposite of Steffen.

When the
current order is addressed again in four weeks, Hirst stated that he wanted
everyone to be present to discuss the health order. 

Four weeks would be after Steffen has moved on to the state senate, as their session begins January 11. Daniel Friesen will be seated as the third county commissioner by the time of the expiration of the health order that is now in place.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608721993976.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With nearly two hours of discussion, Reno
County Commissioners approved keeping the current health order implemented this week in place until January 18, 2021.Several heated exchanges took place between medical officials and the commission. The issue surrounded the mandate of wearing masks which has been
a heated topic over the past month.Commissioner Dr. Mark Steffen who has been outspoken about the use of masks and the state's
mandate on them, got into a spirited exchange with Dr. Scott Pauly about masks.
Steffen also told Commissioner Ron Hirst that he shouldn’t sleep well at night
thinking that wearing a mask will help save lives. Steffen continued to question the Health Department and Pauly on their handling of the pandemic and the current mask
order in place.Many people spoke both for and against the health order. Aubrey Abbott Patterson with the Hutchinson Community Foundation and Jim Remar of the Cosmosphere both spoke in support of the health order. Resident Robin Jackson was one of several residents who were against the mask order, stating that such a matter should be freely decided upon.After
several discussions on how to find some common ground, Commissioner Hirst
moved to keep the current health order in place through January 18. That motion
passed 2-1 with Hirst and Ron Sellers supporting it and Steffen opposed.&nbsp; At that time, Steffen said
that the vote showed the Commissioners position for posterity. Steffen then moved
that the county opt out of the state's mandated health order. That was voted
down by a 2-1 margin, with the same split of Hirst and Sellers voting together opposite of Steffen.When the
current order is addressed again in four weeks, Hirst stated that he wanted
everyone to be present to discuss the health order. Four weeks would be after Steffen has moved on to the state senate, as their session begins January 11. Daniel Friesen will be seated as the third county commissioner by the time of the expiration of the health order that is now in place.

Health order stays until January 18, 2021 by 2-1 commission vote


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer said December has not been a good month for his department.

"It's been a terrible month for us here in Hutch with fires," Beer said. "In front of every fire station, we've got a big, green Christmas wreath. It's all lit up in green, but for every structure fire, we take out a green bulb and we put in a red one. I think we're up to six right now, five or six on that wreath now since December 1st."

A big problem has been electrical fires and fires from space heaters.

"You've got to keep your combustibles away from any space heater that you plug in," Beer said. "Also, we see this time of year, overloaded outlets and many extension cords. The Christmas tree is a little bit nicer now a days with the LED Christmas lights, they don't take the draw on the system as the old fashioned lights did."

Even with that, it's still best to plug whatever will draw a lot of current into the wall directly, rather than into an extension cord. Also, be sure you have smoke detectors and they work.

"Half the fires we respond to still do not have working smoke detectors in their home," Beer said. "That smoke detector is watching your home at night. Once that smoke detector goes off, you have literally two minutes to get out of your home."

If you are going someplace for the holidays to stay, be sure you know how to get out, just as if you were at home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608654168736.jpeg" alt="This is how the fire wreath started December in Hutchinson, but some of those bulbs have changed-photo courtesy HFD" />
 <figcaption>This is how the fire wreath started December in Hutchinson, but some of those bulbs have changed-photo courtesy HFD</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer said December has not been a good month for his department."It's been a terrible month for us here in Hutch with fires," Beer said. "In front of every fire station, we've got a big, green Christmas wreath. It's all lit up in green, but for every structure fire, we take out a green bulb and we put in a red one. I think we're up to six right now, five or six on that wreath now since December 1st."A big problem has been electrical fires and fires from space heaters."You've got to keep your combustibles away from any space heater that you plug in," Beer said. "Also, we see this time of year, overloaded outlets and many extension cords. The Christmas tree is a little bit nicer now a days with the LED Christmas lights, they don't take the draw on the system as the old fashioned lights did."Even with that, it's still best to plug whatever will draw a lot of current into the wall directly, rather than into an extension cord. Also, be sure you have smoke detectors and they work."Half the fires we respond to still do not have working smoke detectors in their home," Beer said. "That smoke detector is watching your home at night. Once that smoke detector goes off, you have literally two minutes to get out of your home."If you are going someplace for the holidays to stay, be sure you know how to get out, just as if you were at home.

Beer: December a bad month for fires thus far


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper is looking at the numbers for 2020 for Hutchinson and he believes he may see some trends.

"We have been up slightly with our calls related to mental health and people in mental health crisis," Hooper said. "Here of late in the last couple of months overdoses have been up and we've seen an influx of mostly heroin into our community. That was kind of new coming in to our community this year. It's really hard to make a direct comparison, is that because of COVID and, you know, are those mental health related calls because of the increased stress and pressures?"

Hooper said he doesn't know if they'll ever be able to make a one to one connection.

"Looking at the trend line through 2020 compared to 2019, it would appear that we have a little bit bigger problem with substance abuse related calls," Hooper said. "Even if you just look at the number of overdoses, they're up around the country. Overdose related deaths are up around the country. Obviously, Hutchinson appears to be trending in that direction."

Despite that, the crime statistics for the community appear to be holding steady.

"It would lead me to believe that there's maybe just a few more people, maybe related to stress or unemployment that are misusing drugs in our community," Hooper said. "Maybe not committing crimes, but misusing drugs and that's leading to the medical calls that we're seeing."

Hooper is looking forward to 2021, when funding has been allocated for a crisis response team in the community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591796149452.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper is looking at the numbers for 2020 for Hutchinson and he believes he may see some trends."We have been up slightly with our calls related to mental health and people in mental health crisis," Hooper said. "Here of late in the last couple of months overdoses have been up and we've seen an influx of mostly heroin into our community. That was kind of new coming in to our community this year. It's really hard to make a direct comparison, is that because of COVID and, you know, are those mental health related calls because of the increased stress and pressures?"Hooper said he doesn't know if they'll ever be able to make a one to one connection."Looking at the trend line through 2020 compared to 2019, it would appear that we have a little bit bigger problem with substance abuse related calls," Hooper said. "Even if you just look at the number of overdoses, they're up around the country. Overdose related deaths are up around the country. Obviously, Hutchinson appears to be trending in that direction."Despite that, the crime statistics for the community appear to be holding steady."It would lead me to believe that there's maybe just a few more people, maybe related to stress or unemployment that are misusing drugs in our community," Hooper said. "Maybe not committing crimes, but misusing drugs and that's leading to the medical calls that we're seeing."Hooper is looking forward to 2021, when funding has been allocated for a crisis response team in the community.

Hooper: Looking at police call numbers, drugs may be worse this year

RENO COUNTY — A Hutchinson man was injured Monday afternoon when he rear ended a car on his motorcycle on K-14 in Reno County.

Just before 5:15 p.m. Monday, a 2021 Toyota Camry driven by 46-year-old Brandy Jo Juenger of Woden, Iowa and a 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 motorcycle driven by 66-year-old Ronald K. Bleything of Hutchinson were both northbound on K14. 

The Camry slowed to make a left turn onto Pretty Prairie Road and was rear-ended by the motorcycle.

Bleything was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for a suspected serious injury. Juenger was not hurt. Bleything was wearing a helmet. Juenger was buckled up, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606580341582.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — A Hutchinson man was injured Monday afternoon when he rear ended a car on his motorcycle on K-14 in Reno County.Just before 5:15 p.m. Monday, a 2021 Toyota Camry driven by 46-year-old Brandy Jo Juenger of Woden, Iowa and a 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 motorcycle driven by 66-year-old Ronald K. Bleything of Hutchinson were both northbound on K14. The Camry slowed to make a left turn onto Pretty Prairie Road and was rear-ended by the motorcycle.Bleything was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for a suspected serious injury. Juenger was not hurt. Bleything was wearing a helmet. Juenger was buckled up, according to the KHP.

Hutchinson man hospitalized after motorcycle rear-ends car

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 693 as of Monday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 88. The case count is very slightly down from a week ago.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 22 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 68 active cases. Thirty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 6,269 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 683 cases in the community at large. 5,488 people have recovered thus far.

Thirty-one Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred eighty-two total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 26.15%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.92%. 31.25% of the population has been tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 693 as of Monday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 88. The case count is very slightly down from a week ago.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 22 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 68 active cases. Thirty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 6,269 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 683 cases in the community at large. 5,488 people have recovered thus far.Thirty-one Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred eighty-two total have been hospitalized. Eighty-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 30 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 26.15%, with the overall positive test rate at 31.92%. 31.25% of the population has been tested.There are now two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. Those are available Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., but not on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year's Day.

Case count at 693, with 683 in community as of Monday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce will be closed during the Christmas Break.&nbsp;

The Chamber announced it will close Dec. 24 and remain closed through Jan. 4. The Chamber says it wanted to give staff a bit of an extended holiday.&nbsp;

The Chamber also announced it is still looking for sponsorships for the 2021 annual meeting as well as the usual monthly breakfast and lunch events.&nbsp;

If you would like to sponsor one of those events, contact Marcy Kauffman at the Chamber at 620-662-3391 or email her at <a href="mailto:marcyk@hutchchamber.com">marcyk@hutchchamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592851747011.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce will be closed during the Christmas Break.&nbsp;The Chamber announced it will close Dec. 24 and remain closed through Jan. 4. The Chamber says it wanted to give staff a bit of an extended holiday.&nbsp;The Chamber also announced it is still looking for sponsorships for the 2021 annual meeting as well as the usual monthly breakfast and lunch events.&nbsp;If you would like to sponsor one of those events, contact Marcy Kauffman at the Chamber at 620-662-3391 or email her at <a href="mailto:marcyk@hutchchamber.com">marcyk@hutchchamber.com</a>.

Chamber closed starting Friday for extended Christmas break

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced Monday that Boilersource, based in Arlington Heights, Illinois, has signed on to be Superior’s exclusive authorized sales representative for northern Illinois and Chicago. A dealer of boilers and associated equipment and certified Woman-owned Business Enterprise, Boilersource has more than 50 years of experience in the industry. The agreement pertains specifically to Superior’s firetube boilers, deaerators, condensing boilers and other ancillary equipment.

“Superior Boiler continues to develop and work with the best rep firms in the industry, and we believe Boilersource best fits the business philosophies we are looking for in this territory to promote and sell our products,” Nick LeJeune, Superior’s vice president of sales and marketing, said. “Northern Illinois, including the Chicago area, is a stable and growing market for boiler room-related equipment. We welcome the opportunity to work with Boilersource. Working together and focusing on common growth strategies will benefit this partnership tremendously.”

&nbsp;“Boilersource is extremely proud to be Superior Boiler’s authorized representative for Northern Illinois and the Chicagoland area,” Boilersource President and CEO Tricia Fredrick said. “Our expertise and Superior’s amazing products set the stage for a very successful future together. We are looking forward to working with Superior.”

Superior is in the middle of relocating its Richmond, Virginia, facilities to Hutchinson. The expansion will take place in a building just west of the current Superior facilities on East 4th Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608580664173.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced Monday that Boilersource, based in Arlington Heights, Illinois, has signed on to be Superior’s exclusive authorized sales representative for northern Illinois and Chicago. A dealer of boilers and associated equipment and certified Woman-owned Business Enterprise, Boilersource has more than 50 years of experience in the industry. The agreement pertains specifically to Superior’s firetube boilers, deaerators, condensing boilers and other ancillary equipment.“Superior Boiler continues to develop and work with the best rep firms in the industry, and we believe Boilersource best fits the business philosophies we are looking for in this territory to promote and sell our products,” Nick LeJeune, Superior’s vice president of sales and marketing, said. “Northern Illinois, including the Chicago area, is a stable and growing market for boiler room-related equipment. We welcome the opportunity to work with Boilersource. Working together and focusing on common growth strategies will benefit this partnership tremendously.”&nbsp;“Boilersource is extremely proud to be Superior Boiler’s authorized representative for Northern Illinois and the Chicagoland area,” Boilersource President and CEO Tricia Fredrick said. “Our expertise and Superior’s amazing products set the stage for a very successful future together. We are looking forward to working with Superior.”Superior is in the middle of relocating its Richmond, Virginia, facilities to Hutchinson. The expansion will take place in a building just west of the current Superior facilities on East 4th Avenue.

Superior Boiler announces expansion into Illinois market


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Educators across the country are having to adjust as the school year goes along and for some of them, they'd rather change careers or retire than deal with the stress. So far, that's not been an issue in USD 308.

"I'm kind of pleasantly surprised that we have not seen in USD 308 a en masse exodus from the teaching profession," said Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Rick Kraus. "We have only had five people who have announced their retirement or resignation through our early incentive program."

"I think people are kind of maybe just sitting back to wait and see what's going to happen," Kraus said. "Maybe we're sensing we're near the peak of this challenge, that if we've survived it this far that maybe this second half of the year will go much smoother and they may choose to stay in teaching, which is what we need them to do."

Data from the Kansas Department of Education notes that young teachers are not coming in to the profession as quickly as schools need them.

"There are fewer teachers available to fill vacancies across the state of Kansas," Kraus said. "That's not going to change in the pandemic, unfortunately. My hope is that we do have our teachers that are maybe on the bubble that will just be more reflective about whether or not they want to continue and if they've made it this far, if they will hang in there for another couple of years, because they are the best people we have for our kids. We can't replace experience."

USD 308 will have additional professional development days for its teachers immediately following the holiday break.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Educators across the country are having to adjust as the school year goes along and for some of them, they'd rather change careers or retire than deal with the stress. So far, that's not been an issue in USD 308."I'm kind of pleasantly surprised that we have not seen in USD 308 a en masse exodus from the teaching profession," said Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Rick Kraus. "We have only had five people who have announced their retirement or resignation through our early incentive program."That's below other years."I think people are kind of maybe just sitting back to wait and see what's going to happen," Kraus said. "Maybe we're sensing we're near the peak of this challenge, that if we've survived it this far that maybe this second half of the year will go much smoother and they may choose to stay in teaching, which is what we need them to do."Data from the Kansas Department of Education notes that young teachers are not coming in to the profession as quickly as schools need them."There are fewer teachers available to fill vacancies across the state of Kansas," Kraus said. "That's not going to change in the pandemic, unfortunately. My hope is that we do have our teachers that are maybe on the bubble that will just be more reflective about whether or not they want to continue and if they've made it this far, if they will hang in there for another couple of years, because they are the best people we have for our kids. We can't replace experience."USD 308 will have additional professional development days for its teachers immediately following the holiday break.

So far, USD 308 teachers sticking it out despite additional pandemic workload


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Julia Westfahl with SCKEDD had happy news for homeowners in Hutchinson announced on Monday.

SCKEDD will be receiving a grant from Federal Home Loan Bank in Topeka that will involve home owner housing repair up to $10,000 per home.  

Once grant agreements have been signed after the first of the year, the program should be open to the public starting the beginning of March for application intake.  

SCKEDD will start by going through their deferral list from the weatherization program.   

"If you are aware of any potential homeowners that are needing this home repair assistance please provide me their contact information," Westfahl said. "We will add them to our list when we begin making phone calls and gathering applications."  

This program will be ideal for individuals that have code compliance issues or need roof repairs, siding, windows, plumbing, or electrical repairs. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604073199111.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Julia Westfahl with SCKEDD had happy news for homeowners in Hutchinson announced on Monday.SCKEDD will be receiving a grant from Federal Home Loan Bank in Topeka that will involve home owner housing repair up to $10,000 per home. Once grant agreements have been signed after the first of the year, the program should be open to the public starting the beginning of March for application intake. SCKEDD will start by going through their deferral list from the weatherization program. "If you are aware of any potential homeowners that are needing this home repair assistance please provide me their contact information," Westfahl said. "We will add them to our list when we begin making phone calls and gathering applications." This program will be ideal for individuals that have code compliance issues or need roof repairs, siding, windows, plumbing, or electrical repairs.

SCKEDD to administer homeowner repair grant funds in 2021


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall noted there are several provisions to help the public in the latest COVID-19 relief bill being voted on Monday.

"Most importantly, I think, we would start off with a direct payment to everyone who got a direct payment before from the previous CARES funding," Marshall said. "They'll be getting $600 per person. There's monies in there for the Paycheck Protection Program, so more of the small businesses would have an opportunity for a second bite of the apple. There's some funding in there, significant funding for more unemployment insurance. Those folks that still are not employed, it may be awhile. We've about 14 more weeks of unemployment insurance. There's funding to get the vaccines out, as well."

Regarding the vaccines, Marshall believes herd immunity is possible in 2021.

"I really think we have the potential to have herd immunity by the middle of March," Marshall said. "If the administration does its job, the vaccines are out there to reach herd immunity by the middle of March and that's when we're going to see the economy turn around. When the restaurants can stay open, when we can go to a spring baseball game, March Madness, all those things that we're looking forward to, that's when the economy's going to get cranked up."

Marshall believes they can push out at least 40 million doses in the next weeks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595001869381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall noted there are several provisions to help the public in the latest COVID-19 relief bill being voted on Monday."Most importantly, I think, we would start off with a direct payment to everyone who got a direct payment before from the previous CARES funding," Marshall said. "They'll be getting $600 per person. There's monies in there for the Paycheck Protection Program, so more of the small businesses would have an opportunity for a second bite of the apple. There's some funding in there, significant funding for more unemployment insurance. Those folks that still are not employed, it may be awhile. We've about 14 more weeks of unemployment insurance. There's funding to get the vaccines out, as well."Regarding the vaccines, Marshall believes herd immunity is possible in 2021."I really think we have the potential to have herd immunity by the middle of March," Marshall said. "If the administration does its job, the vaccines are out there to reach herd immunity by the middle of March and that's when we're going to see the economy turn around. When the restaurants can stay open, when we can go to a spring baseball game, March Madness, all those things that we're looking forward to, that's when the economy's going to get cranked up."Marshall believes they can push out at least 40 million doses in the next weeks.

Marshall: Relief bill, vaccine progress good news going to the holidays

TURON, Kan. — One person was injured in a single vehicle accident
Friday night in far southwest Reno County. Reno County EMS, rural fire crews
and the sheriff’s department were all dispatched to K-61 and Raymond Road and
found 28-year-old John Brady of Turon trapped in the wrecked vehicle.

The SO reports that Brady was driving east on K-61 when he
swerved to miss a coyote. Brady over-corrected and exited the road on the right
side where it entered the ditch and struck the side of an access road. The
vehicle went airborne and rolled several times before it came to a rest. 

Brady was transported to the Hutchinson Regional Medical
Center by EMS for non-life threatening injuries.

The accident happened just after 10 p.m. one mile west of
Turon. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564766073002.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TURON, Kan. — One person was injured in a single vehicle accident
Friday night in far southwest Reno County. Reno County EMS, rural fire crews
and the sheriff’s department were all dispatched to K-61 and Raymond Road and
found 28-year-old John Brady of Turon trapped in the wrecked vehicle.The SO reports that Brady was driving east on K-61 when he
swerved to miss a coyote. Brady over-corrected and exited the road on the right
side where it entered the ditch and struck the side of an access road. The
vehicle went airborne and rolled several times before it came to a rest. Brady was transported to the Hutchinson Regional Medical
Center by EMS for non-life threatening injuries.The accident happened just after 10 p.m. one mile west of
Turon.