
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar is still concerned that COVID-19 testing supplies are limited in the state, at least based on what is made available to his department when they ask for it.

"One of the things that we've had trouble getting all along, not only PPE, are the nasopharyngeal swabs that actually they use for the COVID test when they swab your nasal cavity," Weishaar said. "That's something that gets requested from us every single week and generally speaking, whatever we request from the state, they send about a quarter of it. That goes directly to the agencies who are doing the tests."

There was a supply chain shortage earlier this year that KDHE put out a proposal to have help with back in April.

"When we were having so much trouble getting them, there were some dental offices that produced those for the state and were able to print those, essentially on a 3D printer, to be used," Weishaar said. 

Weishaar expressed a concern about the potential for limits on testing supplies at Tuesday's Reno County Commission meeting where the commissioners approved spending money on a month's worth of testing supplies in an attempt to test asymptomatic community members to see if there is any asymptomatic COVID-19 spread going on in the community. Commissioner Ron Sellers noted the concern and asked for an update next week. 

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NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar is still concerned that COVID-19 testing supplies are limited in the state, at least based on what is made available to his department when they ask for it."One of the things that we've had trouble getting all along, not only PPE, are the nasopharyngeal swabs that actually they use for the COVID test when they swab your nasal cavity," Weishaar said. "That's something that gets requested from us every single week and generally speaking, whatever we request from the state, they send about a quarter of it. That goes directly to the agencies who are doing the tests."There was a supply chain shortage earlier this year that KDHE put out a proposal to have help with back in April."When we were having so much trouble getting them, there were some dental offices that produced those for the state and were able to print those, essentially on a 3D printer, to be used," Weishaar said. Weishaar expressed a concern about the potential for limits on testing supplies at Tuesday's Reno County Commission meeting where the commissioners approved spending money on a month's worth of testing supplies in an attempt to test asymptomatic community members to see if there is any asymptomatic COVID-19 spread going on in the community. Commissioner Ron Sellers noted the concern and asked for an update next week.

Reno County EM: Testing supply chain still a concern even as it ramps up

HUTCHINSON, KS – Representative Paul Waggoner of the 104th House District will be hosting a coffee for constituents this Friday, September 11. 

Representative Waggoner will be in Buhler at the Mustard Seed from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Area constituents are invited to attend. Representative Waggoner looks forward to discussing state issues and answering questions.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, KS – Representative Paul Waggoner of the 104th House District will be hosting a coffee for constituents this Friday, September 11. Representative Waggoner will be in Buhler at the Mustard Seed from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.Area constituents are invited to attend. Representative Waggoner looks forward to discussing state issues and answering questions.

Waggoner to host coffee Friday in Buhler


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Salt City Chapter of the Guardians of the Children is doing their work to keep kids feeling safe as they face the people who have victimized them.

"It's just very important to empower the kids," said Ma, spokesperson for the group. "Motorcycles do that. They give the child a sense of empowerment. We go to court with them, if need be and they can focus on us rather than the predator."

The Guardians have a benefit coming up Thursday at Mi Tierra Restaurant at 700 East 4th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

"Guardians of the Children will get a percentage that night," Ma said. "We normally have a big kid's day event in April, which we wasn't able to do this year because of the COVID."

There will also be a benefit concert featuring Jake Gill Sunday September 20th at 2 p.m. at the Royals Bar and Banquet at 1514 East 4th. The door charge is $5. Royals is also the starting point for a Guardians Poker Run October 3rd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost for that is $20 a hand and $5 for a riders hand.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Salt City Chapter of the Guardians of the Children is doing their work to keep kids feeling safe as they face the people who have victimized them."It's just very important to empower the kids," said Ma, spokesperson for the group. "Motorcycles do that. They give the child a sense of empowerment. We go to court with them, if need be and they can focus on us rather than the predator."The Guardians have a benefit coming up Thursday at Mi Tierra Restaurant at 700 East 4th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m."Guardians of the Children will get a percentage that night," Ma said. "We normally have a big kid's day event in April, which we wasn't able to do this year because of the COVID."There will also be a benefit concert featuring Jake Gill Sunday September 20th at 2 p.m. at the Royals Bar and Banquet at 1514 East 4th. The door charge is $5. Royals is also the starting point for a Guardians Poker Run October 3rd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost for that is $20 a hand and $5 for a riders hand.

Guardians of the Children chapter fundraising this month and next


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County total case count is down below 100 as of Tuesday evening. There are 84 cases of COVID-19 in Reno County.

According to the Reno County dashboard, the cluster related cases in the county are down to just 42, 41 of those at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility and one at Hutchinson Community College. That leaves 42 non-cluster related cases in the county.

809 people have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic. 724 have recovered. One has died.

7,264 tests have been administered, with 6,455 negatives for a positive test rate of 11.14% overall. The community test rate is 7.22%. 11.56% of the population has been tested.

One person is in the hospital. One is intubated. One is awaiting test results. 

We're also still awaiting the majority of the results from the 250 tests administered over the weekend that were administered to employees of USD 308 and USD 313 and their families.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County total case count is down below 100 as of Tuesday evening. There are 84 cases of COVID-19 in Reno County.According to the Reno County dashboard, the cluster related cases in the county are down to just 42, 41 of those at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility and one at Hutchinson Community College. That leaves 42 non-cluster related cases in the county.809 people have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic. 724 have recovered. One has died.7,264 tests have been administered, with 6,455 negatives for a positive test rate of 11.14% overall. The community test rate is 7.22%. 11.56% of the population has been tested.One person is in the hospital. One is intubated. One is awaiting test results. We're also still awaiting the majority of the results from the 250 tests administered over the weekend that were administered to employees of USD 308 and USD 313 and their families.

Reno County case count below 100, only 42 non-cluster related cases

RENO COUNTY— A Salina man was taken by air to an area hospital after being hurt at a construction site in Reno County Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, deputies, fire and EMS were dispatched just before 2 p.m. to the bridge at 69th Avenue and Nickerson Road. They found 42-year-old Gonzalo Chavez lying on his back in the sand near the river.

Deputies rendered aid until EMS and fire arrived. Deputies were told that a crane was loaded with 4,000 pounds of sheet pile and that the load was about six feet off the ground when the crane operator accidentally took his foot off of the crane brake and the load fell on top of Chavez. The operator lifted the load off and other employees rendered aid and called 911. 

Chavez was taken to the Hutchinson Airport and airlifted to an area hospital. His condition was not released.

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 </figure>RENO COUNTY— A Salina man was taken by air to an area hospital after being hurt at a construction site in Reno County Tuesday afternoon.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, deputies, fire and EMS were dispatched just before 2 p.m. to the bridge at 69th Avenue and Nickerson Road. They found 42-year-old Gonzalo Chavez lying on his back in the sand near the river.Deputies rendered aid until EMS and fire arrived. Deputies were told that a crane was loaded with 4,000 pounds of sheet pile and that the load was about six feet off the ground when the crane operator accidentally took his foot off of the crane brake and the load fell on top of Chavez. The operator lifted the load off and other employees rendered aid and called 911. Chavez was taken to the Hutchinson Airport and airlifted to an area hospital. His condition was not released.

Salina man hurt in industrial accident Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The large drop in temperature this week has got Reno County officials thinking ahead to when everyone is driven indoors this fall and winter.

"I think we're all going to have concerns as we're moving into the colder months and going indoors," said Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "Then, you're going to introduce flu season, as well."

It is important to note that mask wearing and social distancing are helpful.

"Perhaps we could have a lighter flu season, just due to the fact that we're doing everything to prevent COVID," Hammersmith said. "It's going to prevent flu, as well. If you're washing your hands, you're wearing a mask, you're social distancing, all of those things are going to prevent most viruses."

It's also time to start thinking about getting your flu shot.

"We'll have flu shot clinics," Hammersmith said. "I know a lot of companies have already jumped on board. We've got a lot of companies that we're going to go out to and give our flu shots to. We've generally done that and we're going to continue to do that. All around the area, they've got flu shots advertised and we do have flu shots in. The companies were really good to produce even extra flu shots that hopefully, more people would go ahead and get your flu shot."

That's one way to try to prevent medical providers from trying to have to figure out if you have the flu or COVID-19 or both.

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NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The large drop in temperature this week has got Reno County officials thinking ahead to when everyone is driven indoors this fall and winter."I think we're all going to have concerns as we're moving into the colder months and going indoors," said Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "Then, you're going to introduce flu season, as well."It is important to note that mask wearing and social distancing are helpful."Perhaps we could have a lighter flu season, just due to the fact that we're doing everything to prevent COVID," Hammersmith said. "It's going to prevent flu, as well. If you're washing your hands, you're wearing a mask, you're social distancing, all of those things are going to prevent most viruses."It's also time to start thinking about getting your flu shot."We'll have flu shot clinics," Hammersmith said. "I know a lot of companies have already jumped on board. We've got a lot of companies that we're going to go out to and give our flu shots to. We've generally done that and we're going to continue to do that. All around the area, they've got flu shots advertised and we do have flu shots in. The companies were really good to produce even extra flu shots that hopefully, more people would go ahead and get your flu shot."That's one way to try to prevent medical providers from trying to have to figure out if you have the flu or COVID-19 or both.

Hammersmith: Flu season coming soon, but hygiene should help

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County EMS, an entity of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, has been named recipient of the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Award for 2020.

The award was granted to recognize Reno County EMS for implementing and maintaining quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who suffer heart attacks. Specifically, the award recognizes efforts to improve systems of care to rapidly identify suspected heart attack victims and promptly notify the Emergency Department of Hutch Regional in an effort to generate a speedy response once the patient arrives at the hospital.

Dave Johnston, Reno County EMS Chief, reaffirmed that the emergency organization is committed to providing the highest level of care by ensuring the EMS team is prepared to respond immediately when cardiac emergencies occur. “The coordinated efforts of first responders, EMS and specialized medical teams have improved the survivability of severe cardiac events in Reno County,” Johnston said. “I am very proud of the role Reno County EMS plays in the integrated healthcare team and their dedication to the community. The Gold Plus Award highlights our efforts to constantly improve the delivery of care.”

Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, commended Reno County EMS for achieving this national recognition. “This award comes as no surprise in that Reno County EMS is a repeat winner of this well-deserved honor for their excellence in providing the highest level of emergency care,” Johnson said. “The role of Reno County EMS in the system-of-care for these patients is crucial and often sets the course for a favorable outcome.”

The Lifeline recognition program was established in 2014 to recognize the achievements of emergency medical providers nationwide who collaborate with hospitals to achieve the best outcome possible.

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.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County EMS, an entity of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, has been named recipient of the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Award for 2020.The award was granted to recognize Reno County EMS for implementing and maintaining quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who suffer heart attacks. Specifically, the award recognizes efforts to improve systems of care to rapidly identify suspected heart attack victims and promptly notify the Emergency Department of Hutch Regional in an effort to generate a speedy response once the patient arrives at the hospital.Dave Johnston, Reno County EMS Chief, reaffirmed that the emergency organization is committed to providing the highest level of care by ensuring the EMS team is prepared to respond immediately when cardiac emergencies occur. “The coordinated efforts of first responders, EMS and specialized medical teams have improved the survivability of severe cardiac events in Reno County,” Johnston said. “I am very proud of the role Reno County EMS plays in the integrated healthcare team and their dedication to the community. The Gold Plus Award highlights our efforts to constantly improve the delivery of care.”Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, commended Reno County EMS for achieving this national recognition. “This award comes as no surprise in that Reno County EMS is a repeat winner of this well-deserved honor for their excellence in providing the highest level of emergency care,” Johnson said. “The role of Reno County EMS in the system-of-care for these patients is crucial and often sets the course for a favorable outcome.”The Lifeline recognition program was established in 2014 to recognize the achievements of emergency medical providers nationwide who collaborate with hospitals to achieve the best outcome possible.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.

Reno County EMS wins American Heart Association national award 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The first negotiations session for the 2020-21 negotiated agreement between Hutchinson Public Schools and the Hutchinson National Education Association will be at 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, at the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy, 800 15th Circle.

Except for caucus periods of the individual groups, the negotiations are open meetings. Normally, the two groups meet several times for negotiations. USD 308 Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Rick Kraus previously noted that the two sides would likely not reach an agreement until after the amount of money the district gets from enrollment is known. 

That count day this year is September 21st.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The first negotiations session for the 2020-21 negotiated agreement between Hutchinson Public Schools and the Hutchinson National Education Association will be at 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, at the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy, 800 15th Circle.Except for caucus periods of the individual groups, the negotiations are open meetings. Normally, the two groups meet several times for negotiations. USD 308 Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Rick Kraus previously noted that the two sides would likely not reach an agreement until after the amount of money the district gets from enrollment is known. That count day this year is September 21st.

First negotiations session set for USD 308

CLARK COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Tuesday in Clark County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Volvo passenger vehicle driven by Tesfay A.&nbsp;Gebrewahd, 38, Jacksonville, FL.,&nbsp;was southbound on U.S. 283&nbsp; at U.S. 54 in Minneola.

The driver failed to yield at the stop sign when turning right and struck a westbound 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Hugo Rene&nbsp;Hernandez Jr., 25, Sterling.

EMS transported&nbsp;Gebrewahd and&nbsp;Hernandez Jr. to the hospital in Minneola. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

CLARK COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Tuesday in Clark County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Volvo passenger vehicle driven by Tesfay A.&nbsp;Gebrewahd, 38, Jacksonville, FL.,&nbsp;was southbound on U.S. 283&nbsp; at U.S. 54 in Minneola.The driver failed to yield at the stop sign when turning right and struck a westbound 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Hugo Rene&nbsp;Hernandez Jr., 25, Sterling.EMS transported&nbsp;Gebrewahd and&nbsp;Hernandez Jr. to the hospital in Minneola. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Rice County man hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

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;Kevin Nickel with Pinnacle Sports Performance does have some concern for the health of athletes if there are two football seasons in a 12-month period, as it looks like will be the case for some major college conferences and the NJCAA.

"A certain amount of caution needs to be taken when we talk about splitting up or multiplying the games or having multiple seasons," Nickel said. "You know, I'm concerned, a lot of the Division I schools are going to have really qualified medical staff and strength and conditioning staff, athletic trainers that are going to help keep an eye on all of the athletes and their development. Everybody's kind of learning as they go on this one."

It's striking the balance between the desire to improve skills and the risk of overuse injuries.

"Athletes, of course, always want to play," Nickel said. "They're always going to want to play. A lot of a coach's job and my job as a strength and conditioning coach here at Pinnacle Sports Performance is kind of harnessing that enthusiasm, knowing when to push, when to hold back and try to get that balance to develop them athletically and appropriately."

Some major college conferences have games this weekend, while others have not rescheduled their seasons as yet. NJCAA competition is slated for after the first of the year.

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NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kevin Nickel with Pinnacle Sports Performance does have some concern for the health of athletes if there are two football seasons in a 12-month period, as it looks like will be the case for some major college conferences and the NJCAA."A certain amount of caution needs to be taken when we talk about splitting up or multiplying the games or having multiple seasons," Nickel said. "You know, I'm concerned, a lot of the Division I schools are going to have really qualified medical staff and strength and conditioning staff, athletic trainers that are going to help keep an eye on all of the athletes and their development. Everybody's kind of learning as they go on this one."It's striking the balance between the desire to improve skills and the risk of overuse injuries."Athletes, of course, always want to play," Nickel said. "They're always going to want to play. A lot of a coach's job and my job as a strength and conditioning coach here at Pinnacle Sports Performance is kind of harnessing that enthusiasm, knowing when to push, when to hold back and try to get that balance to develop them athletically and appropriately."Some major college conferences have games this weekend, while others have not rescheduled their seasons as yet. NJCAA competition is slated for after the first of the year.

Nickel: Concerns about multiple FB seasons, but trainers will be ready


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;There was a large testing event Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic. Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith let the county commission know about the tests during their meeting Tuesday and the commission approved the funding for that week and more funding through September.

"They tested right at around 250 people," Karen Hammersmith said. "Those were employees that got an email blast from Buhler and Hutchinson school districts. They included teachers, staff and spouses to come, if they would, on Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to get tested. We did that. It was very successful, as far as getting people in and out and getting the tests sent in."

The County Commission approved funding for the month of September to do the testing for groups that do not have symptoms.

"To have an accurate positive test rate, you cannot just target your people that have symptoms," Hammersmith said. "Otherwise, that positive test rate could be 100%. If you're only testing somebody that has all the signs and symptoms that it's COVID, well then, you're really looking that that's what you're going to find out."

Both Commissioner Ron Sellers and Commissioner Ron Hurst agree that the county needs to do the testing necessary to give the school districts an accurate picture.

"The county needs to do whatever we can to help our schools be in business," Sellers said. 

"We cannot afford to have kids miss school and try to put six or seven hours on the computer at home," Hurst added.

The commissioners approved one month's worth of tests at around 250 a week, with the projected cost for the month of $118,900.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;There was a large testing event Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic. Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith let the county commission know about the tests during their meeting Tuesday and the commission approved the funding for that week and more funding through September."They tested right at around 250 people," Karen Hammersmith said. "Those were employees that got an email blast from Buhler and Hutchinson school districts. They included teachers, staff and spouses to come, if they would, on Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to get tested. We did that. It was very successful, as far as getting people in and out and getting the tests sent in."The County Commission approved funding for the month of September to do the testing for groups that do not have symptoms."To have an accurate positive test rate, you cannot just target your people that have symptoms," Hammersmith said. "Otherwise, that positive test rate could be 100%. If you're only testing somebody that has all the signs and symptoms that it's COVID, well then, you're really looking that that's what you're going to find out."Both Commissioner Ron Sellers and Commissioner Ron Hurst agree that the county needs to do the testing necessary to give the school districts an accurate picture."The county needs to do whatever we can to help our schools be in business," Sellers said. "We cannot afford to have kids miss school and try to put six or seven hours on the computer at home," Hurst added.The commissioners approved one month's worth of tests at around 250 a week, with the projected cost for the month of $118,900.

Reno County Commission approves testing funding Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County COVID-19 situation appears to be relatively stable, judging by the numbers on the county's COVID-19 dashboard as of Monday evening.

There are 135 active cases, 83 of them are in the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, with two connected to Hutchinson Community College. There are no other active cases in the remaining clusters in the county, which leaves 50 non-cluster related cases as of Monday evening.

809 residents have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic, with 673 recoveries and one death.

The current testing statistics show 7,215 total tests administered, with 6,406 negative, for an overall positive test rate of 11.21%, and a community test rate of 7.28%.

According to a post late last week from the county's school districts, the positive test rate would, if it were being used, put the districts in the yellow zone in the county's gating criteria. However, that rate is not being used because testing is not widespread enough yet to make the positive test rate a valid number. 

The county was allowed to use some COVID-19 relief money to begin more widespread testing. Some of that took place Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic. Those test results have not come back yet, though they should be due later this week.

The current number that will be used to determine the gating criteria level for the districts when they begin using it September 11th is the 14-day new case count. As of August 28, that number was 78, which would also be in the yellow zone if that number does not drop between now and Friday.

In the yellow zone, on-site schooling would continue with grade level recess and modified transitions. Only active participants would travel to activities.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County COVID-19 situation appears to be relatively stable, judging by the numbers on the county's COVID-19 dashboard as of Monday evening.There are 135 active cases, 83 of them are in the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, with two connected to Hutchinson Community College. There are no other active cases in the remaining clusters in the county, which leaves 50 non-cluster related cases as of Monday evening.809 residents have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic, with 673 recoveries and one death.The current testing statistics show 7,215 total tests administered, with 6,406 negative, for an overall positive test rate of 11.21%, and a community test rate of 7.28%.According to a post late last week from the county's school districts, the positive test rate would, if it were being used, put the districts in the yellow zone in the county's gating criteria. However, that rate is not being used because testing is not widespread enough yet to make the positive test rate a valid number. The county was allowed to use some COVID-19 relief money to begin more widespread testing. Some of that took place Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic. Those test results have not come back yet, though they should be due later this week.The current number that will be used to determine the gating criteria level for the districts when they begin using it September 11th is the 14-day new case count. As of August 28, that number was 78, which would also be in the yellow zone if that number does not drop between now and Friday.In the yellow zone, on-site schooling would continue with grade level recess and modified transitions. Only active participants would travel to activities.

Reno County numbers stable as of Labor Day

Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran admits that COVID-19 has made it tough to tell the future on anything, but it is still his intent to see passenger rail remain alive through Kansas and westward.

"I'm an advocate for Amtrak generally and the Southwest Chief in particular," Moran said. "I also know a group of Kansans who are working hard to see if there can be an additional line that goes south to Texas. We want to be helpful to those who enjoy and appreciate Amtrak and make sure its available for long distance."

Moran has done everything he can do to be sure leadership is committed to the Southwest Chief.

"I've held up the nominations of three or four, now maybe five or six members of the Amtrak board, until they, in writing, commit to me to be advocates for the Southwest Chief and long distance passenger service. All but one has made that commitment and that other one has not yet been confirmed as a result of our hold."

He also had a recent conversation with the Amtrak CEO, William J. Flynn.

"Meeting, in this case, meant by phone," Moran said. "He assured me that once the reduction in the demand for passenger service that has occurred as a result of COVID-19, the pandemic, resolves itself, that Amtrak would be up to running its trains at its regular schedule, more days per week than what they're doing at the moment, as soon as COVID consequences are diminished."

The route is due to drop to three days a week next month, at least through the winter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592423924832.png" alt="Photo courtesy Amtrak" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Amtrak</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran admits that COVID-19 has made it tough to tell the future on anything, but it is still his intent to see passenger rail remain alive through Kansas and westward."I'm an advocate for Amtrak generally and the Southwest Chief in particular," Moran said. "I also know a group of Kansans who are working hard to see if there can be an additional line that goes south to Texas. We want to be helpful to those who enjoy and appreciate Amtrak and make sure its available for long distance."Moran has done everything he can do to be sure leadership is committed to the Southwest Chief."I've held up the nominations of three or four, now maybe five or six members of the Amtrak board, until they, in writing, commit to me to be advocates for the Southwest Chief and long distance passenger service. All but one has made that commitment and that other one has not yet been confirmed as a result of our hold."He also had a recent conversation with the Amtrak CEO, William J. Flynn."Meeting, in this case, meant by phone," Moran said. "He assured me that once the reduction in the demand for passenger service that has occurred as a result of COVID-19, the pandemic, resolves itself, that Amtrak would be up to running its trains at its regular schedule, more days per week than what they're doing at the moment, as soon as COVID consequences are diminished."The route is due to drop to three days a week next month, at least through the winter.

Moran: Still committed to Amtrak service, but COVID-19 makes it difficult

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A free-market policy group in Kansas is attempting to <a href="https://kansaspolicy.org/covid/">make publicly available</a> statistics on hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 easier for Kansans to digest.

What we've tried to do is put things in perspective," said Dave Trabert, CEO of the Kansas Policy Institute. "There's charts here, for example, there's one showing the new weekly cases across the state of Kansas and it's certainly showing an uptick. At the same time that's going up, you see the mortality rate falling."

The Kansas Policy Institute's COVID-19 Information Center has information on:

1. Comparative trends – cases, hospitalizations, and deaths

2. Cases, deaths, mortality rate and infection rate by county

3. Cases and deaths in Kansas nursing homes and other clusters

4. Hospitalization and death rate trends in Kansas

5. Hospital beds available in Kansas and regional states

"On July 6, there were almost 17,000 cases and a little over 1200 people hospitalized, so it was a cumulative rate of 7.31%," Trabert said. "That's down to 5.37%. This is cumulative. What's happened in between there that's brought that down? Only about 4% of the cases that have developed required hospitalization."

This is consistent with the hypothesis of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center pulmonologist Dr. Mohammed Al-Halawani earlier this month that it appears that COVID-19 is <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/79d51c33-f810-40f7-95b9-58c16fb51fbf">more infectious now than it was earlier in the year, but less severe</a>, particularly for those without underlying comorbidities.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599560975324.jpeg" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A free-market policy group in Kansas is attempting to <a href="https://kansaspolicy.org/covid/">make publicly available</a> statistics on hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 easier for Kansans to digest.What we've tried to do is put things in perspective," said Dave Trabert, CEO of the Kansas Policy Institute. "There's charts here, for example, there's one showing the new weekly cases across the state of Kansas and it's certainly showing an uptick. At the same time that's going up, you see the mortality rate falling."The Kansas Policy Institute's COVID-19 Information Center has information on:1. Comparative trends – cases, hospitalizations, and deaths2. Cases, deaths, mortality rate and infection rate by county3. Cases and deaths in Kansas nursing homes and other clusters4. Hospitalization and death rate trends in Kansas5. Hospital beds available in Kansas and regional states6. Cases and deaths by state7. Pneumonia, COVID, and flu deaths8. COVID economic impact"On July 6, there were almost 17,000 cases and a little over 1200 people hospitalized, so it was a cumulative rate of 7.31%," Trabert said. "That's down to 5.37%. This is cumulative. What's happened in between there that's brought that down? Only about 4% of the cases that have developed required hospitalization."This is consistent with the hypothesis of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center pulmonologist Dr. Mohammed Al-Halawani earlier this month that it appears that COVID-19 is <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/79d51c33-f810-40f7-95b9-58c16fb51fbf">more infectious now than it was earlier in the year, but less severe</a>, particularly for those without underlying comorbidities.

Kansas Policy Institute providing COVID-19 statistics

Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher

As the summer begins to wind down, the fall crops filling the fields are slowly transitioning into their displays of color. For my family, the corn and soybeans that exhibited lush greens throughout the summer months have hit their peak in regard to their place on a color wheel and are beginning to dry down in time to gather the grain. While these two crops nearing harvest possess a beauty within the rich warm colors of fall, they are currently being outdone by two of our other crops.

Our grain sorghum has transitioned into a sea of warm brick-red heads of grain. The berries have truly made it a photographer’s dream to capture the rich, warm colors of autumn. It’s no wonder many families in my area plan their Christmas card pictures around this time as the colors show a special beauty similar to the days leading up to ripened wheat.

Earlier this summer, after wheat harvest ended, my husband Adam went back into the fields combines had just run through and planted fall crops. In our area, it’s known as double-cropping. When my husband double-crops, he generally plants either soybeans or grain sorghum to be harvested this fall. This year, however, he added another crop into the double-cropping plan: sunflowers! And boy, oh, boy are they showcasing their fall beauty right now.

This is the first year since I’ve lived in Kansas sunflowers have been planted anywhere on our farm. It’s taken 10 years for me to experience the anticipation and excitement associated with a field of sunflowers blooming. 

For weeks I have stopped by this field to see how close the crop was to blooming. For days I have peeked at the sunflower heads to see if I could identify hints of yellow appearing. This crop has been a definite tease for me. There have been days I have wondered if the flower heads would ever bloom. In fact, I have caught myself talking to this field aloud asking things like, “Are you guys ever going to bloom this year?”

But overnight, the field of green plants have now blossomed into a bright and wonderful yellow that absolutely, without a doubt catches one’s attention. These sunflowers have become the belle of the ball this fall.

I can’t help but stop my car and get out to walk into the field of these “sunnies.” It’s as if you are surrounded by thousands of smiles that instantly brighten your day.

I know these beautiful blooms are temporary and will soon begin to dry down, but I will enjoy these fall flowers in all of their beauty for the time they have. Yes, while they only showcase their welcoming warmth for all to enjoy for a brief period, I will remember the magic and beauty of this crop long after their colors fade.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancherAs the summer begins to wind down, the fall crops filling the fields are slowly transitioning into their displays of color. For my family, the corn and soybeans that exhibited lush greens throughout the summer months have hit their peak in regard to their place on a color wheel and are beginning to dry down in time to gather the grain. While these two crops nearing harvest possess a beauty within the rich warm colors of fall, they are currently being outdone by two of our other crops.Our grain sorghum has transitioned into a sea of warm brick-red heads of grain. The berries have truly made it a photographer’s dream to capture the rich, warm colors of autumn. It’s no wonder many families in my area plan their Christmas card pictures around this time as the colors show a special beauty similar to the days leading up to ripened wheat.Earlier this summer, after wheat harvest ended, my husband Adam went back into the fields combines had just run through and planted fall crops. In our area, it’s known as double-cropping. When my husband double-crops, he generally plants either soybeans or grain sorghum to be harvested this fall. This year, however, he added another crop into the double-cropping plan: sunflowers! And boy, oh, boy are they showcasing their fall beauty right now.This is the first year since I’ve lived in Kansas sunflowers have been planted anywhere on our farm. It’s taken 10 years for me to experience the anticipation and excitement associated with a field of sunflowers blooming. For weeks I have stopped by this field to see how close the crop was to blooming. For days I have peeked at the sunflower heads to see if I could identify hints of yellow appearing. This crop has been a definite tease for me. There have been days I have wondered if the flower heads would ever bloom. In fact, I have caught myself talking to this field aloud asking things like, “Are you guys ever going to bloom this year?”But overnight, the field of green plants have now blossomed into a bright and wonderful yellow that absolutely, without a doubt catches one’s attention. These sunflowers have become the belle of the ball this fall.I can’t help but stop my car and get out to walk into the field of these “sunnies.” It’s as if you are surrounded by thousands of smiles that instantly brighten your day.I know these beautiful blooms are temporary and will soon begin to dry down, but I will enjoy these fall flowers in all of their beauty for the time they have. Yes, while they only showcase their welcoming warmth for all to enjoy for a brief period, I will remember the magic and beauty of this crop long after their colors fade."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Fall Flowers on the Farm

If you pick up just about any farm publication there are typically several articles that talk about soil health. Many times, these articles talk about adding cover crops and livestock into cropping systems to improve the soil. There is no question, that if implemented correctly, these strategies can provide a lot a benefit, but they are just only part of an integrated system that we need to use to improve soil health.

My concern is that focusing on just of couple of these practices, which seem to get the most media coverage, we may not be paying attention to or thinking about other ways to improve soil health. We need to remember that they are just tools in our soil health toolbox and when used for the right job they work great. But there is also a wide array of other tools in that box that that also need to be considered to improve the health of the soil, and more importantly profitability.

Getting a balanced fertility program on track is a good place to start. By using the 4Rs concept, meaning we are 1) using the right product, 2) putting on the right rate, 3) applying it at the right time and 4) putting it in right place we can efficiently apply the nutrients that the crop needs. This all starts with soil testing. Like the advertisement says, “if you don’t test, it just a guess”. With what little a laboratory soil analysis costs, it’s a no brainer to soil test your fields on a regular basis.

Soil pH also needs to be maintained at optimum levels. A pH level, that is either too high or to low, effects nutrient availability to plants. In other words, you could be putting on the right amount of fertilizer the crop needs but if your pH is out of balance the crop can’t utilize those nutrients. A composite soil sample and a $20.00 soil analysis can help you figure out where your pH levels are. From there you can come up with a long-term strategy to get everything in balance.

Consider eliminating, or at the very least, reducing the amount of tillage operations that you complete. Tillage destroys stabile soil aggregates and the disrupts the soil biology that helps form and maintain them. A field with poor soil aggregate stability will have a low water infiltration and be prone to soil erosion. In western Kansas cropping systems, everything is dependent on the amount of moisture we can capture and store in the soil and tillage reduces our soil's ability to do that.

If aren’t already doing some of these simple, cost effective practices I urge you to consider using them to improve the health of your soil. But more importantly consider using them to increase your farm’s profitability. Yes, implementing some of these strategies cost money, but its all about return on investment. You may have to spend a couple hundred dollars to get soil samples pulled and analyzed but you might save several thousand dollars in fertilizer if you do.

For more information about these and other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@ks.usda.gov or any local NRCS office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593956642758.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you pick up just about any farm publication there are typically several articles that talk about soil health. Many times, these articles talk about adding cover crops and livestock into cropping systems to improve the soil. There is no question, that if implemented correctly, these strategies can provide a lot a benefit, but they are just only part of an integrated system that we need to use to improve soil health.My concern is that focusing on just of couple of these practices, which seem to get the most media coverage, we may not be paying attention to or thinking about other ways to improve soil health. We need to remember that they are just tools in our soil health toolbox and when used for the right job they work great. But there is also a wide array of other tools in that box that that also need to be considered to improve the health of the soil, and more importantly profitability.Getting a balanced fertility program on track is a good place to start. By using the 4Rs concept, meaning we are 1) using the right product, 2) putting on the right rate, 3) applying it at the right time and 4) putting it in right place we can efficiently apply the nutrients that the crop needs. This all starts with soil testing. Like the advertisement says, “if you don’t test, it just a guess”. With what little a laboratory soil analysis costs, it’s a no brainer to soil test your fields on a regular basis.Soil pH also needs to be maintained at optimum levels. A pH level, that is either too high or to low, effects nutrient availability to plants. In other words, you could be putting on the right amount of fertilizer the crop needs but if your pH is out of balance the crop can’t utilize those nutrients. A composite soil sample and a $20.00 soil analysis can help you figure out where your pH levels are. From there you can come up with a long-term strategy to get everything in balance.Consider eliminating, or at the very least, reducing the amount of tillage operations that you complete. Tillage destroys stabile soil aggregates and the disrupts the soil biology that helps form and maintain them. A field with poor soil aggregate stability will have a low water infiltration and be prone to soil erosion. In western Kansas cropping systems, everything is dependent on the amount of moisture we can capture and store in the soil and tillage reduces our soil's ability to do that.If aren’t already doing some of these simple, cost effective practices I urge you to consider using them to improve the health of your soil. But more importantly consider using them to increase your farm’s profitability. Yes, implementing some of these strategies cost money, but its all about return on investment. You may have to spend a couple hundred dollars to get soil samples pulled and analyzed but you might save several thousand dollars in fertilizer if you do.For more information about these and other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@ks.usda.gov or any local NRCS office.

Younker: Soil Health is More Than Just Cover Crops

RENO COUNTY— An Arlington man died in an accident Sunday morning in Reno County.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, deputies were called out to the 22700 block of west Arlington Road just before 10:30 a.m. The time of the accident is undetermined, it is believed the accident occurred after 2 a.m.

Deputies believe 24-year-old Wayne Scott Schoenecker of Arlington had been traveling east on Arlington Road. It appears Schoenecker went off the south side of the roadway and lost control of his 2002 KIA Sportage. The vehicle rolled and Schoenecker was ejected. 

He was not wearing a seatbelt. No airbag was deployed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY— An Arlington man died in an accident Sunday morning in Reno County.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, deputies were called out to the 22700 block of west Arlington Road just before 10:30 a.m. The time of the accident is undetermined, it is believed the accident occurred after 2 a.m.Deputies believe 24-year-old Wayne Scott Schoenecker of Arlington had been traveling east on Arlington Road. It appears Schoenecker went off the south side of the roadway and lost control of his 2002 KIA Sportage. The vehicle rolled and Schoenecker was ejected. He was not wearing a seatbelt. No airbag was deployed.

Sunday morning accident kills Arlington man

MCPHERSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Sunday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Volvo semi driven by Amir K. Ali, 25, Lincoln NE., was&nbsp; eastbound on Kansas 61 two miles south of Kansas Avenue. 

The driver turned onto the northbound Interstate 135 ramp. The truck traveled off the roadway to the right, overturned and landed on a fence.

EMS transported Ali to the hospital in Wichita. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

MCPHERSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Sunday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Volvo semi driven by Amir K. Ali, 25, Lincoln NE., was&nbsp; eastbound on Kansas 61 two miles south of Kansas Avenue. The driver turned onto the northbound Interstate 135 ramp. The truck traveled off the roadway to the right, overturned and landed on a fence.EMS transported Ali to the hospital in Wichita. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after semi overturns in McPherson Co.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce announced a couple of events for later this month.

The first is a candidate forum scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 15, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.

The forum will begin with candidates for the 34th State Senate, Dr. Mark Steffan and Shanna Henry. After a brief intermission, the forum will continue with Jason Probst and John Whitesel in the race for the 102 House seat, and Garth Strand and Paul Waggoner contesting in the 104th House seat.

No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however, the public is invited to submit questions in advance to the Hutch Chamber office. Questions may be submitted to Chelsey Dawson at <a href="mailto:chelseyd@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a>.

The second event is the first Chamber breakfast of the season Wednesday, Sept. 16, also at the Stringer Fine Arts Center. You can also attend online. The event begins at 7:45 a.m. and will feature area candidates in the November election.

Registration is $15 for members and $25 for non-members. Contact Belinda McClanahan at 620-662-3391.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce announced a couple of events for later this month.The first is a candidate forum scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 15, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.The forum will begin with candidates for the 34th State Senate, Dr. Mark Steffan and Shanna Henry. After a brief intermission, the forum will continue with Jason Probst and John Whitesel in the race for the 102 House seat, and Garth Strand and Paul Waggoner contesting in the 104th House seat.No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however, the public is invited to submit questions in advance to the Hutch Chamber office. Questions may be submitted to Chelsey Dawson at <a href="mailto:chelseyd@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a>.The second event is the first Chamber breakfast of the season Wednesday, Sept. 16, also at the Stringer Fine Arts Center. You can also attend online. The event begins at 7:45 a.m. and will feature area candidates in the November election.Registration is $15 for members and $25 for non-members. Contact Belinda McClanahan at 620-662-3391.

Chamber candidate forum set for Sept. 15


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Ryan Hvitlok with the City of Hutchinson's Complete Count Committee says the Census is almost wrapped up in Hutchinson.

"The self-response rate, that is the folks who have sent in their survey, without having to have an enumerator knock on their door, in Kansas is at 68.8%," Hvitlok said. "We're a little bit higher in Reno County. We're at 69.7% and in Hutchinson, we're at about 68.8%. The good news is, though, that the state as a whole, as we do have Census enumerators that are out and about in the community, the state as a whole is at 92.7% counted."

"It's used to determine your federal, your state and your local voting districts," Hvitlok said. "Our local government here we use it for infrastructure and transportation planning, emergency preparedness, disaster relief, education funding, health tracking and disease control and many, many other things. Really, it's vital. This is a once every ten years process, so it's crucial that we get the count right."

"It's just under $49,000 per household over the next 10 years," Hvitlok said. "Really, if we're looking at the state as a whole, even if Kansas is undercounted by 1%, that's not very many, the state of Kansas could miss out on recieving over $603,000,000 of federal funding over the next 10 years."

Local people have been out in Kansas as census enumerators since early this summer. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583934625725.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Ryan Hvitlok with the City of Hutchinson's Complete Count Committee says the Census is almost wrapped up in Hutchinson."The self-response rate, that is the folks who have sent in their survey, without having to have an enumerator knock on their door, in Kansas is at 68.8%," Hvitlok said. "We're a little bit higher in Reno County. We're at 69.7% and in Hutchinson, we're at about 68.8%. The good news is, though, that the state as a whole, as we do have Census enumerators that are out and about in the community, the state as a whole is at 92.7% counted."The count closes September 30."It's used to determine your federal, your state and your local voting districts," Hvitlok said. "Our local government here we use it for infrastructure and transportation planning, emergency preparedness, disaster relief, education funding, health tracking and disease control and many, many other things. Really, it's vital. This is a once every ten years process, so it's crucial that we get the count right."Undercounting could cost a lot of money."It's just under $49,000 per household over the next 10 years," Hvitlok said. "Really, if we're looking at the state as a whole, even if Kansas is undercounted by 1%, that's not very many, the state of Kansas could miss out on recieving over $603,000,000 of federal funding over the next 10 years."Local people have been out in Kansas as census enumerators since early this summer.

Census will finish at the end of September

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council will hold its regular agenda session one day later than normal because of the Labor Day holiday.

The council will go over the new home construction incentive program. The city has two incentive packages for neighborhood revitalization, but no new home incentives.

Also Tuesday, the council will take action on the purchase of an air compressor for the city’s water plant at a cost of $8,000 from S &amp; S Equipment of Wichita.

The council will go into executive session for several legal matters and hear the reports from department heads.

Tuesday's meeting of the South Hutchinson City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the South Hutchinson Community Building at 101 W. C Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599250546355.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Hutchinson City Council will hold its regular agenda session one day later than normal because of the Labor Day holiday.The council will go over the new home construction incentive program. The city has two incentive packages for neighborhood revitalization, but no new home incentives.Also Tuesday, the council will take action on the purchase of an air compressor for the city’s water plant at a cost of $8,000 from S &amp; S Equipment of Wichita.The council will go into executive session for several legal matters and hear the reports from department heads.Tuesday's meeting of the South Hutchinson City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the South Hutchinson Community Building at 101 W. C Avenue.

South Hutchinson Council to look at housing incentive package

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two planning cases are part of Tuesday’s Reno County Commission meeting.

The first is from Yoder Metal, who is requesting a conditional use permit to expand the company’s production facility at 9611 Yoder Rd. The proposed expansion would include a 100’ x 200’ production facility near the intersection of Yoder and Red Rock roads. The Planning Commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval of the permit.

The second matter is a conditional use permit from Cheney Lake Storage. The owner wants to build two 16’ by 72’ extensions to an existing storage facility at 8812 Boundary Rd. The request also gained 7-0 approval from the Planning Commission.

Also Tuesday, the board will get the weekly report on the pandemic and hear the weekly reports. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576875802998.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two planning cases are part of Tuesday’s Reno County Commission meeting.The first is from Yoder Metal, who is requesting a conditional use permit to expand the company’s production facility at 9611 Yoder Rd. The proposed expansion would include a 100’ x 200’ production facility near the intersection of Yoder and Red Rock roads. The Planning Commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval of the permit.The second matter is a conditional use permit from Cheney Lake Storage. The owner wants to build two 16’ by 72’ extensions to an existing storage facility at 8812 Boundary Rd. The request also gained 7-0 approval from the Planning Commission.Also Tuesday, the board will get the weekly report on the pandemic and hear the weekly reports. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Commission to take action on 2 business expansion requests

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The American Red Cross and Hutch Rec will be holding a babysitting training clinic.

The eight hour clinic will teach youth how to respond to emergencies, make good decisions under pressure, communicate with parents and recognize safety and hygiene issues.

The program will also provide information on starting your own babysitting business. The program is for youth ages 10 through 17. The classes will run from Oct. 13 through Oct. 22 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the Hutch Rec downtown offices.

The deadline to register is Oct. 9 with a minimum class size of five and maximum of 12. Registration for the training class is $50.

 For more information, contact the Hutch Rec at 620-663-6179.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599250839475.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The American Red Cross and Hutch Rec will be holding a babysitting training clinic.The eight hour clinic will teach youth how to respond to emergencies, make good decisions under pressure, communicate with parents and recognize safety and hygiene issues.The program will also provide information on starting your own babysitting business. The program is for youth ages 10 through 17. The classes will run from Oct. 13 through Oct. 22 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the Hutch Rec downtown offices.The deadline to register is Oct. 9 with a minimum class size of five and maximum of 12. Registration for the training class is $50. For more information, contact the Hutch Rec at 620-663-6179.