
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;If you're making a last trip for the summer this weekend, filling up at the pump should not get in your way.

"We're looking at the cheapest gas prices at Labor Day weekend since 2016," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "In terms of the impact from Hurricane Laura, some of the refineries and oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico that had shut down have started operations again. The exceptions are refineries in the Lake Charles, Louisiana area. Overall, though, there's been no major threat to supply or gasoline stocks."

Steward noted that there was plenty of fuel in the system ahead of the storm.

"We've seen some lower demand leading up to the holiday weekend," Steward said. "It's really kept prices stable. We could see a little bit of an uptick for the holiday weekend as people head to the lake or other road trips for the three-day weekend, but we don't see any major jumps in prices at the pump."

In Reno County and Hutchinson, prices are lower than last year, but higher than some points this summer.

"Reno County and Hutchinson are right at about $1.99 a gallon," Steward said Friday. "Overall, if you're traveling in this region, just in our general vicinity, in addition to Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and Arkansas are all cheaper than we are here in the Sunflower State."

The national average as of Friday night was just under $2.23 a gallon.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;If you're making a last trip for the summer this weekend, filling up at the pump should not get in your way."We're looking at the cheapest gas prices at Labor Day weekend since 2016," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "In terms of the impact from Hurricane Laura, some of the refineries and oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico that had shut down have started operations again. The exceptions are refineries in the Lake Charles, Louisiana area. Overall, though, there's been no major threat to supply or gasoline stocks."Steward noted that there was plenty of fuel in the system ahead of the storm."We've seen some lower demand leading up to the holiday weekend," Steward said. "It's really kept prices stable. We could see a little bit of an uptick for the holiday weekend as people head to the lake or other road trips for the three-day weekend, but we don't see any major jumps in prices at the pump."In Reno County and Hutchinson, prices are lower than last year, but higher than some points this summer."Reno County and Hutchinson are right at about $1.99 a gallon," Steward said Friday. "Overall, if you're traveling in this region, just in our general vicinity, in addition to Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and Arkansas are all cheaper than we are here in the Sunflower State."The national average as of Friday night was just under $2.23 a gallon.

AAA: Cheapest gas at Labor Day since 2016

NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department announced today that an inmate at the county detention center has tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

According to a release, the inmate was recently taken into custody and was identified through precautionary testing. All new inmates brought into the detention center are placed in a 14-day quarantine cell as a COVID-19 precaution before being released into the detention center's general population.

The individual is in isolation at the detention center. The detention center has medical cells with negative pressure, which keeps air flow out of other areas of the facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599254376416.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department announced today that an inmate at the county detention center has tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;According to a release, the inmate was recently taken into custody and was identified through precautionary testing. All new inmates brought into the detention center are placed in a 14-day quarantine cell as a COVID-19 precaution before being released into the detention center's general population.The individual is in isolation at the detention center. The detention center has medical cells with negative pressure, which keeps air flow out of other areas of the facility.

Inmate in Harvey Co. tests positive for COVID-19

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler teachers and the district have a new collective bargaining agreement for the school year. During a special meeting of the USD 313 School Board, the new contract was approved that will give teachers an overall increase in pay and benefits of 1.3%.

Under the new contract, the base pay for teachers will go up to $37,800. All teachers will get $16 extra paid on their insurance by the district along with education incentives.

The board also approved a wage increase for administration and classified staff. Under the agreement, those employees will get a 1% pay increase along with $16 extra paid by the district for insurance. The increases total about $170,000 to the overall budget.

The new contract for teachers starts immediately while the administrative and classified employees will get back pay to July 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler teachers and the district have a new collective bargaining agreement for the school year. During a special meeting of the USD 313 School Board, the new contract was approved that will give teachers an overall increase in pay and benefits of 1.3%.Under the new contract, the base pay for teachers will go up to $37,800. All teachers will get $16 extra paid on their insurance by the district along with education incentives.The board also approved a wage increase for administration and classified staff. Under the agreement, those employees will get a 1% pay increase along with $16 extra paid by the district for insurance. The increases total about $170,000 to the overall budget.The new contract for teachers starts immediately while the administrative and classified employees will get back pay to July 1.

USD 313 and teachers have new contract


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran really isn't sure what the next stimulus bill will look like, or even if one will get passed in light of the upcoming election, though he believes one is necessary.

"We don't know a lot," Moran said. "Republican Senators have been meeting by conference call five days a week for the last about month, meeting with Secretary Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary and with Mark Meadows the President's Chief of Staff, all with the goal of trying to develop a plan that Republicans could get 51 votes for in the Senate. I think, where we are, the negotiations generally were in the hands of the White House and the Democrats in the House and those have gone nowhere."

Moran notes that even full Republican buy in won't be enough on the Senate side.

"That doesn't pass a bill," Moran said. "It takes 60 votes to pass anything. Again, Democrats and Republicans would have to reach an agreement. Then, there's this question, who wants a deal before an election and who doesn't want a deal before an election?"

Just for clarity, it takes 60 votes to invoke cloture, which is what stops debate on a measure and allows it to be voted on. That is what Moran is referring to. It takes just 51 senators to actually pass legislation once it gets to that final vote.

"We should pass something," Moran said. "My view is, it should be significantly smaller than what we did in the past. Already, incidentally, Kansas has received $13.4 billion in COVID relief. That's about two-thirds of the annual state budget in federal taxpayer or federal borrowed money coming to Kansas. I don't have the appetite to spend the trillions of dollars that we've spent in the past."

Moran said government does not have the ability to just keep funding and just keep developing new programs indefinitely.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561988801102.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran really isn't sure what the next stimulus bill will look like, or even if one will get passed in light of the upcoming election, though he believes one is necessary."We don't know a lot," Moran said. "Republican Senators have been meeting by conference call five days a week for the last about month, meeting with Secretary Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary and with Mark Meadows the President's Chief of Staff, all with the goal of trying to develop a plan that Republicans could get 51 votes for in the Senate. I think, where we are, the negotiations generally were in the hands of the White House and the Democrats in the House and those have gone nowhere."Moran notes that even full Republican buy in won't be enough on the Senate side."That doesn't pass a bill," Moran said. "It takes 60 votes to pass anything. Again, Democrats and Republicans would have to reach an agreement. Then, there's this question, who wants a deal before an election and who doesn't want a deal before an election?"Just for clarity, it takes 60 votes to invoke cloture, which is what stops debate on a measure and allows it to be voted on. That is what Moran is referring to. It takes just 51 senators to actually pass legislation once it gets to that final vote."We should pass something," Moran said. "My view is, it should be significantly smaller than what we did in the past. Already, incidentally, Kansas has received $13.4 billion in COVID relief. That's about two-thirds of the annual state budget in federal taxpayer or federal borrowed money coming to Kansas. I don't have the appetite to spend the trillions of dollars that we've spent in the past."Moran said government does not have the ability to just keep funding and just keep developing new programs indefinitely.

Moran: A lot we don't know about stimulus negotiations

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

Release from Reno County Health Department

As schools have resumed in-person classes, school districts within Reno County and the Reno County Health Department continue to work together in keeping employees and students safe and well during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the event a student or employee is identified as laboratory confirmed COVID-19 positive; the school will assist in identifying all close contacts of the COVID-19 person. If the close contact is a student, the student will either be sent home and parents will be notified OR the parents will be contacted to pick up their child to quarantine while waiting for the Reno County Health Department to call with additional information regarding their quarantine. The same quarantine guidance also applies to all teachers and staff if they are identified as a close contact.

The purpose of contact tracing is to interrupt the ongoing transmission of COVID-19 and reduce the spread of the virus. By identifying close contacts of those with COVID-19 we are able to continue to keep everyone safe, slow down the spread of the virus, and continue to keep our schools open.

Although you may “feel fine” during your quarantine; it is extremely important for all close contacts to fully follow the quarantine guidelines set by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Reno County Health Department. Symptoms may appear and you could be considered contagious anywhere from 2-14 days after you were last exposed to the virus. If at any time during your quarantine you start to develop symptoms it is encouraged to contact your medical provider.

We are all in this together and it will take each of us doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Reno County Health DepartmentAs schools have resumed in-person classes, school districts within Reno County and the Reno County Health Department continue to work together in keeping employees and students safe and well during the COVID-19 pandemic.In the event a student or employee is identified as laboratory confirmed COVID-19 positive; the school will assist in identifying all close contacts of the COVID-19 person. If the close contact is a student, the student will either be sent home and parents will be notified OR the parents will be contacted to pick up their child to quarantine while waiting for the Reno County Health Department to call with additional information regarding their quarantine. The same quarantine guidance also applies to all teachers and staff if they are identified as a close contact.The purpose of contact tracing is to interrupt the ongoing transmission of COVID-19 and reduce the spread of the virus. By identifying close contacts of those with COVID-19 we are able to continue to keep everyone safe, slow down the spread of the virus, and continue to keep our schools open.Although you may “feel fine” during your quarantine; it is extremely important for all close contacts to fully follow the quarantine guidelines set by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Reno County Health Department. Symptoms may appear and you could be considered contagious anywhere from 2-14 days after you were last exposed to the virus. If at any time during your quarantine you start to develop symptoms it is encouraged to contact your medical provider.We are all in this together and it will take each of us doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

Health Department clarifies policy for schools on COVID-19 tracing

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre announced Thursday that Judy Collins will perform in concert next spring.

Collins will hold a concert Saturday, May 8, at 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale Friday morning at 9 a.m. Season ticket holders and members will get 15% off.

Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. The award-winning singer-songwriter is esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and her own poetically poignant original compositions. Her stunning rendition of Joni Mitchell's “Both Sides Now” from her landmark 1967 album, Wildflowers, has been entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Collins' dreamy and sweetly intimate version of “Send in the Clowns,” a ballad written by Stephen Sondheim for the Broadway musical A Little Night Music, won Song of the Year at the 1975 Grammy Awards. She’s garnered several top-ten hits gold- and platinum-selling albums.&nbsp;

Call 1-877-FOX SHOW or go to <a href="https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?t=tix&amp;e=5f9d36d3473c912b49c2bd5c1b4840bf&amp;vqitq=aae19b59-c1c4-470d-b3d3-bafa96073017&amp;vqitp=5839ffc9-9c98-441f-998f-7f94ae991457&amp;vqitts=1599160816&amp;vqitc=vendini&amp;vqite=itl&amp;vqitrt=Safetynet&amp;vqith=351eb19389a6a9c05f9acc0fb0acf0ce">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a> for tickets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599160613709.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre announced Thursday that Judy Collins will perform in concert next spring.Collins will hold a concert Saturday, May 8, at 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale Friday morning at 9 a.m. Season ticket holders and members will get 15% off.Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. The award-winning singer-songwriter is esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and her own poetically poignant original compositions. Her stunning rendition of Joni Mitchell's “Both Sides Now” from her landmark 1967 album, Wildflowers, has been entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame.Collins' dreamy and sweetly intimate version of “Send in the Clowns,” a ballad written by Stephen Sondheim for the Broadway musical A Little Night Music, won Song of the Year at the 1975 Grammy Awards. She’s garnered several top-ten hits gold- and platinum-selling albums.&nbsp;Call 1-877-FOX SHOW or go to <a href="https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?t=tix&amp;e=5f9d36d3473c912b49c2bd5c1b4840bf&amp;vqitq=aae19b59-c1c4-470d-b3d3-bafa96073017&amp;vqitp=5839ffc9-9c98-441f-998f-7f94ae991457&amp;vqitts=1599160816&amp;vqitc=vendini&amp;vqite=itl&amp;vqitrt=Safetynet&amp;vqith=351eb19389a6a9c05f9acc0fb0acf0ce">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a> for tickets.

Judy Collins coming to the Fox 

CHENEY, Kan. — Cheney State Park hopes to cap off what has been a very busy year with another great turnout for the Labor Day weekend.

According to park officials, all of the non primitive campsites are sold out and only about 100 primitive sites remain. The lake has been a busy place all summer long with reservations for campsites sold out on most weekends. Its a trend that most lakes in Kansas have been seeing with the pandemic closing off sporting events and other attractions.

The park reports the lake is in good shape with no algae or debris problems and over the past couple of days the fishing has been good.

The park expects more than 50,000 visitors over the three-day weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588189401552.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHENEY, Kan. — Cheney State Park hopes to cap off what has been a very busy year with another great turnout for the Labor Day weekend.According to park officials, all of the non primitive campsites are sold out and only about 100 primitive sites remain. The lake has been a busy place all summer long with reservations for campsites sold out on most weekends. Its a trend that most lakes in Kansas have been seeing with the pandemic closing off sporting events and other attractions.The park reports the lake is in good shape with no algae or debris problems and over the past couple of days the fishing has been good.The park expects more than 50,000 visitors over the three-day weekend.

Cheney and other lakes will be busy this weekend


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is using telemedicine to provide more Neurology services to its patients.

"We have been doing teleservices for the past five years, mainly for stroke cases," said Jarrod Urban, Director of Quality Patient Experience at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. "We want to get that emergent stroke case in the ER taken care of in the ER as quickly as possible. With the retirement of the two neurologists that we had in town, we saw a need for filling the gap in the coverage for acute care."

The neurologists from Jayhawk Tele-Neurology are able to provide inpatient care via video.

"We have five carts from throughout our building that allow the neurologist to sit in front of the patient, complete a full exam on the patient, order tests and medicine, round on them every day, just like your regular doctor would," Urban said. "They're rounding from other places outside of the state."

If there is a surgical component, that would need to be dealt with at another facility, but general neurologic care can be provided here in Hutch.

"Strokes, seizures, epilepsy for instance, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, Alzheimer's, stuff like that," Urban said. "We're just trying to provide a service in our community that keeps patients in our community where their families are."

Urban noted that a patient is likely to have the same specialist throughout their time if they need them during a stay, even though the hospital may have up to 12 different physicians rotating on cases once things are fully up and running.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574787528114.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is using telemedicine to provide more Neurology services to its patients."We have been doing teleservices for the past five years, mainly for stroke cases," said Jarrod Urban, Director of Quality Patient Experience at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. "We want to get that emergent stroke case in the ER taken care of in the ER as quickly as possible. With the retirement of the two neurologists that we had in town, we saw a need for filling the gap in the coverage for acute care."The neurologists from Jayhawk Tele-Neurology are able to provide inpatient care via video."We have five carts from throughout our building that allow the neurologist to sit in front of the patient, complete a full exam on the patient, order tests and medicine, round on them every day, just like your regular doctor would," Urban said. "They're rounding from other places outside of the state."If there is a surgical component, that would need to be dealt with at another facility, but general neurologic care can be provided here in Hutch."Strokes, seizures, epilepsy for instance, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, Alzheimer's, stuff like that," Urban said. "We're just trying to provide a service in our community that keeps patients in our community where their families are."Urban noted that a patient is likely to have the same specialist throughout their time if they need them during a stay, even though the hospital may have up to 12 different physicians rotating on cases once things are fully up and running.

Telemedicine services in neurology will allow patients to stay in Hutch

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 announced Thursday that they will no longer charge for meals.

Because of a recent U.S. Department of Agriculture order, all students enrolled in USD 308 who eat breakfast or lunch in district schools will not be charged through Dec. 31.

Families who normally would pay the full rate or the reduced rate for meals will not be charged during this time. All meal charges prior to Sept. 3 will still apply. Additionally, students will have to pay for ala-carte items.

District families still need to fill out the free or reduced lunch application because meals after Dec. 31 will be charged according to their student meal status.&nbsp;

The application also is needed on file for families to qualify for free or reduced-price textbook fees. This application helps the district receive additional state funding needed to provide resources for students.

The free meals also apply to students who are learning from home. Students enrolled in remote learning at Hutchinson Public Schools, USD 308 have the option of ordering meal kits.

Meal kits are required to be ordered ahead each week &amp; one form must be filled out per student.

Patrons will pick up meal kits weekly on Wednesdays only and will receive 5 breakfasts &amp; 5 lunches.

Pick up locations will be at Hutchinson High School from 10 to 10:30 a.m. and&nbsp; Hutchinson Middle School 7 from noon to 12:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584378947824.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 announced Thursday that they will no longer charge for meals.Because of a recent U.S. Department of Agriculture order, all students enrolled in USD 308 who eat breakfast or lunch in district schools will not be charged through Dec. 31.Families who normally would pay the full rate or the reduced rate for meals will not be charged during this time. All meal charges prior to Sept. 3 will still apply. Additionally, students will have to pay for ala-carte items.District families still need to fill out the free or reduced lunch application because meals after Dec. 31 will be charged according to their student meal status.&nbsp;The application also is needed on file for families to qualify for free or reduced-price textbook fees. This application helps the district receive additional state funding needed to provide resources for students.The free meals also apply to students who are learning from home. Students enrolled in remote learning at Hutchinson Public Schools, USD 308 have the option of ordering meal kits.Meal kits are required to be ordered ahead each week &amp; one form must be filled out per student.Patrons will pick up meal kits weekly on Wednesdays only and will receive 5 breakfasts &amp; 5 lunches.Pick up locations will be at Hutchinson High School from 10 to 10:30 a.m. and&nbsp; Hutchinson Middle School 7 from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Meals will be free to USD 308 students starting Friday

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

Camp Hawk Lake in Harvey County is under a blue-green algae warning.

When a warning is issued, KDHE says lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock. Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans. Water contact should be avoided if under a warning. Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded. Do not allow pets to eat dried algae. If lake water with algae contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible. Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – As we look ahead to the Labor Day weekend, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), has revised its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.Camp Hawk Lake in Harvey County is under a blue-green algae warning.When a warning is issued, KDHE says lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock. Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans. Water contact should be avoided if under a warning. Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded. Do not allow pets to eat dried algae. If lake water with algae contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible. Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable. They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment. If there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

Camp Hawk Lake in Harvey County under blue-green algae warning


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Buhler USD 313 started school Wednesday and Superintendent Cindy Couchman and her staff know that things don't always work in the real world the way they do on paper, but it's important to see what does and does not work.

"Let us try it," Couchman said. "Let us roll it out as we have planned it. Give us a week, which is why we have Friday, a professional development day to reflect on what worked and what didn't work. We may change some things. We are already talking about some things we may need to modify next week. Let us put our plan into place. It's sort of like we've practiced and practiced and practiced and we need a game."

Once the idea of having the day to sort of do course correction right away was presented, it made a lot of sense.

"It was a great idea," Couchman said. "One person I remember it being suggested by is Laura Meyer Dick, our board president suggested it and I was like, that's a great idea. It went through the negotiations team and everybody embraced it right away. I think it was a great plan. It will give us some time to reflect."

Getting the sense of school community really happens best in person, according to Couchman.

"I think it was really important to start together," Couchman said. "No matter what happens in the next few weeks, it's really important that they are all together at least at the beginning, because it does give you a chance to really form some relationships, to get to know your teachers, to get to know your classmates. It does make the Zoom meetings a little bit more personal."

The hope, of course, is to keep the virus at bay and to continue in person instruction throughout the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594221759837.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Buhler USD 313 started school Wednesday and Superintendent Cindy Couchman and her staff know that things don't always work in the real world the way they do on paper, but it's important to see what does and does not work."Let us try it," Couchman said. "Let us roll it out as we have planned it. Give us a week, which is why we have Friday, a professional development day to reflect on what worked and what didn't work. We may change some things. We are already talking about some things we may need to modify next week. Let us put our plan into place. It's sort of like we've practiced and practiced and practiced and we need a game."Once the idea of having the day to sort of do course correction right away was presented, it made a lot of sense."It was a great idea," Couchman said. "One person I remember it being suggested by is Laura Meyer Dick, our board president suggested it and I was like, that's a great idea. It went through the negotiations team and everybody embraced it right away. I think it was a great plan. It will give us some time to reflect."Getting the sense of school community really happens best in person, according to Couchman."I think it was really important to start together," Couchman said. "No matter what happens in the next few weeks, it's really important that they are all together at least at the beginning, because it does give you a chance to really form some relationships, to get to know your teachers, to get to know your classmates. It does make the Zoom meetings a little bit more personal."The hope, of course, is to keep the virus at bay and to continue in person instruction throughout the year.

Opportunity coming for quick feedback in USD 313

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Financial help is on the way for nonprofits that have been hurt by the pandemic. Former City Manager John Deardoff was before the Reno County Commission to inform them about COVID-19 funds that will be available later this fall.

The funds will be available for nonprofits, private schools and day cares in Reno County. The information online will be available starting Sept. 8 with the application process starting Sept. 15. Applications can be filled out through Sept. 30.

“The review process and the allocation committee would sit down and look at each one of the applications, look at their eligibility and look at what they’ve submitted,” Deardoff said. “We’ll come up with a recommendation that we will bring to the County Commission for final approval.”

The funding will cover three different areas for nonprofits.

“Priority one is for reimbursable experiences that these agencies have already accrued up to the end of August for COVID-related things,” Deardoff said. “And then things they have to do at their facility to prepare for the future. And then finally, which I think is probably going to be a really important component, is going to be the revenue loss for some of these nonprofits.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 

There will be a $25,000 cap per organization on the first two priorities and a cap of 25% or less of last year's total revenue. The funds would not only allow nonprofits to get funding for needed goods and services, they could also offset lost revenue due to losses from a decrease in fundraising.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564529619105.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Financial help is on the way for nonprofits that have been hurt by the pandemic. Former City Manager John Deardoff was before the Reno County Commission to inform them about COVID-19 funds that will be available later this fall.The funds will be available for nonprofits, private schools and day cares in Reno County. The information online will be available starting Sept. 8 with the application process starting Sept. 15. Applications can be filled out through Sept. 30.“The review process and the allocation committee would sit down and look at each one of the applications, look at their eligibility and look at what they’ve submitted,” Deardoff said. “We’ll come up with a recommendation that we will bring to the County Commission for final approval.”The funding will cover three different areas for nonprofits.“Priority one is for reimbursable experiences that these agencies have already accrued up to the end of August for COVID-related things,” Deardoff said. “And then things they have to do at their facility to prepare for the future. And then finally, which I think is probably going to be a really important component, is going to be the revenue loss for some of these nonprofits.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; There will be a $25,000 cap per organization on the first two priorities and a cap of 25% or less of last year's total revenue. The funds would not only allow nonprofits to get funding for needed goods and services, they could also offset lost revenue due to losses from a decrease in fundraising.

COVID funds available to nonprofits

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for a new downtown business.

The Crow and Co. Book Store opened in August, but took time on Wednesday to celebrate with the Chamber. The store is at 2 S. Main where Bluebird Books was located before closing in the spring.

The new store, which is owned by Sara Crow, offers a place to gather, and hold book and discussion groups along with a small cafe that just opened this week. The cafe offers mostly drinks at this time such as coffee, tea and soda along with a variety of pastries. Crow hopes to expand to provide lunch as well in the future. 

Crow and Co. also wants to be a part of Kansas artwork. The business is looking for Kansas artists to sell their works that are unique to the state. If you are an artist and would be interested in selling in the store, contact Crow and Co.

Store hours are Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Third Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599075336940.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for a new downtown business.The Crow and Co. Book Store opened in August, but took time on Wednesday to celebrate with the Chamber. The store is at 2 S. Main where Bluebird Books was located before closing in the spring.The new store, which is owned by Sara Crow, offers a place to gather, and hold book and discussion groups along with a small cafe that just opened this week. The cafe offers mostly drinks at this time such as coffee, tea and soda along with a variety of pastries. Crow hopes to expand to provide lunch as well in the future. Crow and Co. also wants to be a part of Kansas artwork. The business is looking for Kansas artists to sell their works that are unique to the state. If you are an artist and would be interested in selling in the store, contact Crow and Co.Store hours are Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Third Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Crow and Co. holds ribbon cutting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A week after making the official announcement that it was curtailing service on long-distance trains, Amtrak announced it will furlough approximately 1,950 of its unionized workers as part of cutbacks for fiscal 2021. Additionally, approximately 100 managerial positions will be eliminated.

The largest portion of those, 698 employees, will come from onboard staff represented by the Amtrak Service Workers Council.&nbsp;

The two locations that will take the largest hits are Los Angeles and Chicago, where 368 onboard employees will be laid off. It’s those onboard employees that serve many of Amtrak's long-distance trains including the Southwest Chief.

In a <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/a8acb0f1-0c31-45f9-9551-60a4f3e1be2a">story Hutch Post brought you in June</a>, Amtrak said it would cut service on long-distance trains including the Chief to three days per week. At the same time, the passenger carrier hinted it would reduce its workforce by 20%.

The Chief is set to go to three days per week in October. The railroad said it would consider putting it back on a full-time schedule if business picked up again after the usual winter slowdown.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599073995682.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A week after making the official announcement that it was curtailing service on long-distance trains, Amtrak announced it will furlough approximately 1,950 of its unionized workers as part of cutbacks for fiscal 2021. Additionally, approximately 100 managerial positions will be eliminated.The largest portion of those, 698 employees, will come from onboard staff represented by the Amtrak Service Workers Council.&nbsp;The two locations that will take the largest hits are Los Angeles and Chicago, where 368 onboard employees will be laid off. It’s those onboard employees that serve many of Amtrak's long-distance trains including the Southwest Chief.In a <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/a8acb0f1-0c31-45f9-9551-60a4f3e1be2a">story Hutch Post brought you in June</a>, Amtrak said it would cut service on long-distance trains including the Chief to three days per week. At the same time, the passenger carrier hinted it would reduce its workforce by 20%.The Chief is set to go to three days per week in October. The railroad said it would consider putting it back on a full-time schedule if business picked up again after the usual winter slowdown.

Amtrak to furlough more than 2,000 employees


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Reno County Republican Party is holding an event to distribute yard signs Thursday in Hutchinson.

"The Trump Train is a mobile unit that is distributing Trump signs and also yard signs for the federal candidates, Dr. Marshall and Tracey Mann," said Reno County Republican Party chair Dennis Herschberger. "We're asking that local candidates be there if possible and also have yard signs available."

The event will officially start at 6 p.m., with the Trump Train there at 6:30 p.m. at Avenue A Park.

"It's a come and go type of event," Herschberger said. "I would also mention that John Whitesel, who is our candidate for 102, which is that district is going to be there in person and he's going to be giving out shaved ice as a refreshment. He would really like to meet as many constituents of 102 as possible."

The local Party is selling the Trump signs as a fundraiser.

"They will have 4 by 4 signs for $60 or even a 4 by 8, Trump 2020," Herschberger said. "The 4 by 4 signs are $60. The 4 by 8 signs are $80."

Herschberger expects the event to last most of the evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599062839415.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Reno County Republican Party is holding an event to distribute yard signs Thursday in Hutchinson."The Trump Train is a mobile unit that is distributing Trump signs and also yard signs for the federal candidates, Dr. Marshall and Tracey Mann," said Reno County Republican Party chair Dennis Herschberger. "We're asking that local candidates be there if possible and also have yard signs available."The event will officially start at 6 p.m., with the Trump Train there at 6:30 p.m. at Avenue A Park."It's a come and go type of event," Herschberger said. "I would also mention that John Whitesel, who is our candidate for 102, which is that district is going to be there in person and he's going to be giving out shaved ice as a refreshment. He would really like to meet as many constituents of 102 as possible."The local Party is selling the Trump signs as a fundraiser."They will have 4 by 4 signs for $60 or even a 4 by 8, Trump 2020," Herschberger said. "The 4 by 4 signs are $60. The 4 by 8 signs are $80."Herschberger expects the event to last most of the evening.

Reno County Republicans holding yard sign event Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Raven Boettger with Brighthouse spoke with athletes coming to the Hutch CC campus last month about consent.

"Every state law will tell you what consent is not, but it does not tell you what consent is," Boettger said. "We will have a discussion on that. Then, we kind of work our way into false reporting. A lot of times the media uses that terminology when a jury comes back and finds the defendant not guilty. A lot of times our athletes assume that means that the victim was then lying and that the report was false. We kind of discuss that."

Consent must be clearly communicated by a partner that is both of age and sober enough to make the decision.

"Consent is a definite yes," Boettger said. "If there's any hesitation or any doubt in somebody's mind on whether or not they have that yes, whether it's given through body language, or straight up asking them if this is okay, a yes is a yes, if there's any doubt in their mind whether or not they have that, then they need to ask more questions."

"If they are 15, they are not able to give consent," Boettger said. "A lot of times, a lot of these athletes are coming from different states and different backgrounds and some think that age of consent is 14. Others may think it's 17 or 18, we're just getting that clear definition, that in the state of Kansas, it is 16."

It's also important to note that if a person is intoxicated, even a yes does not mean consent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599059231758.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Raven Boettger with Brighthouse spoke with athletes coming to the Hutch CC campus last month about consent."Every state law will tell you what consent is not, but it does not tell you what consent is," Boettger said. "We will have a discussion on that. Then, we kind of work our way into false reporting. A lot of times the media uses that terminology when a jury comes back and finds the defendant not guilty. A lot of times our athletes assume that means that the victim was then lying and that the report was false. We kind of discuss that."Consent must be clearly communicated by a partner that is both of age and sober enough to make the decision."Consent is a definite yes," Boettger said. "If there's any hesitation or any doubt in somebody's mind on whether or not they have that yes, whether it's given through body language, or straight up asking them if this is okay, a yes is a yes, if there's any doubt in their mind whether or not they have that, then they need to ask more questions."The age of consent in Kansas is 16."If they are 15, they are not able to give consent," Boettger said. "A lot of times, a lot of these athletes are coming from different states and different backgrounds and some think that age of consent is 14. Others may think it's 17 or 18, we're just getting that clear definition, that in the state of Kansas, it is 16."It's also important to note that if a person is intoxicated, even a yes does not mean consent.

Brighthouse gives training to Hutch CC athletes on consent

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center announced Wednesday that they have opened the Tele-Neurology Acute Care Consultation Service.

The service which kicked off Tuesday will offer a lengthy list of treatments including Stroke Alerts Coverage and Emergent Neurology Consulting in the Emergency Department.

The goal of the new service is to provide inpatient Neurology consultations to enhance care for patients experiencing seizures and post-stroke follow-ups. As neurological issues within our service area have increased, the number of service providers available to provide services has declined, particularly in our rural areas.

Peggy Tuxhorn, Chief Quality Officer for Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, said Neurology is the branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of disorders of the nervous system. “The nervous system is a complex, sophisticated system that regulates and coordinates body activities and is made up of two major divisions: the brain and the spinal cord,” Tuxhorn said. “The five most common neurologic disorders are headaches, strokes, seizures, Parkinson’s disease and dementia.”

The service is the result of a cooperative venture between Hutch Regional and Jayhawk Tele-Neurology, which is the Kansas Branch of Eagle-Med, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. A team of six specialists will be available 24/7 through a video hookup to diagnose and treat patients at Hutch Regional.

Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS), said the local inpatient Neurological service will eliminate the need for transfers out of our community for these treatments. “Reductions in read times on tests will speed reporting to providers in hours instead of days,” Johnson said. “The Tele-Neurology Acute Care Consultation Service is another example of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center striving to keep patients locally so more of our area residents can receive high quality care closer to home.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583428390224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center announced Wednesday that they have opened the Tele-Neurology Acute Care Consultation Service.The service which kicked off Tuesday will offer a lengthy list of treatments including Stroke Alerts Coverage and Emergent Neurology Consulting in the Emergency Department.The goal of the new service is to provide inpatient Neurology consultations to enhance care for patients experiencing seizures and post-stroke follow-ups. As neurological issues within our service area have increased, the number of service providers available to provide services has declined, particularly in our rural areas.Peggy Tuxhorn, Chief Quality Officer for Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, said Neurology is the branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of disorders of the nervous system. “The nervous system is a complex, sophisticated system that regulates and coordinates body activities and is made up of two major divisions: the brain and the spinal cord,” Tuxhorn said. “The five most common neurologic disorders are headaches, strokes, seizures, Parkinson’s disease and dementia.”The service is the result of a cooperative venture between Hutch Regional and Jayhawk Tele-Neurology, which is the Kansas Branch of Eagle-Med, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. A team of six specialists will be available 24/7 through a video hookup to diagnose and treat patients at Hutch Regional.Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS), said the local inpatient Neurological service will eliminate the need for transfers out of our community for these treatments. “Reductions in read times on tests will speed reporting to providers in hours instead of days,” Johnson said. “The Tele-Neurology Acute Care Consultation Service is another example of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center striving to keep patients locally so more of our area residents can receive high quality care closer to home.”

HRMC opens new neurology service

YODER — Twenty-one new law enforcement officers graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) on Aug. 28 at a ceremony held in KLETC’s Integrity Auditorium. 

Tyler Stephenson of the Baldwin City Police Department was the graduating class president. Rob McClarty, KLETC instructor of police and class coordinator for the 267th Basic Training Class, was the speaker for the ceremony.

Stephenson was named to the Director’s Honor Roll and was also the recipient of the Welch Academic Award. Deputy Chandler Ford from the Meade County Sheriff’s Office and Officer Logan Higbee from the Beloit Police Department were acknowledged for having shot 100% on their firearms qualification, with Higbee being recognized as the class “Top Shot.”

McClarty also singled out students Higbee, Levi Chermak, Austin Sievert, Stephenson, Shawn Hyde, Tanner Houck, Blake Stromgren and Ford for assisting a motorist whose car had flipped. The students were en route to Cheney on their downtime when they noticed the overturned vehicle. They worked together to ensure that not only was the motorist safe, but that the area was safe as well. The students tended to the motorist and controlled traffic until the Reno County EMS, Pretty Prairie Fire Department and Kansas Highway Patrol arrived on the scene. 

Graduates receive certificates of course completion from KLETC and Kansas law enforcement certification from the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training, the state’s law enforcement licensing authority. The training course fulfills the state requirement for law enforcement training. Classroom lectures and hands-on applications help train officers to solve the increasingly complex problems they face in the line of duty.

Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC trains the majority of municipal, county and state law enforcement officers in Kansas and oversees the training of the remaining officers at seven authorized and certified academy programs operated by local law enforcement agencies and the Kansas Highway Patrol.

About 300 officers enroll annually in KLETC 14-week basic training programs. KLETC offers continuing education and specialized training to over 10,000 Kansas officers each year. KLETC is located one mile west and one mile south of Yoder, near Hutchinson, and is a division of University of Kansas Professional &amp; Continuing Education.

The graduates, who began their training in February 2020, represented 15 municipal, county and state law enforcement agencies from across Kansas. Graduates who granted permission to release their names are listed below by county and agency:

Madysn Mitchell, Butler Community College Department of Public Safety

Eric Hidecker, Chase County Sheriff's Office

Dexter Holliday, Iowa Tribal Police Department

Vanessa Schmalz, Baldwin City Police Department 

Tyler Stephenson, Baldwin City Police Department

Tylor Preeo, Greeley County Sheriff's Office

Shawn Hyde, Kansas City Public Schools Police Department

Nancy Martinez, Leavenworth Police Department 

Brittany Swanbeck, Leavenworth Police Department

Xochitl Arzate, Emporia State University Police Department

Chandler Ford, Meade County Sheriff's Office

Colbe Austin, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; Tourism

Levi Chermak, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; Tourism

Tanner Houck, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; Tourism

Austin Sievert, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; Tourism

Blake Stromgren, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; Tourism

Randall Benoit, Rooks County Sheriff's Office

Chase Newacheck, Russell County Sheriff's Office

Darrell Moody, Belle Plaine Police Department

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599055784164.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>YODER — Twenty-one new law enforcement officers graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) on Aug. 28 at a ceremony held in KLETC’s Integrity Auditorium. Tyler Stephenson of the Baldwin City Police Department was the graduating class president. Rob McClarty, KLETC instructor of police and class coordinator for the 267th Basic Training Class, was the speaker for the ceremony.Stephenson was named to the Director’s Honor Roll and was also the recipient of the Welch Academic Award. Deputy Chandler Ford from the Meade County Sheriff’s Office and Officer Logan Higbee from the Beloit Police Department were acknowledged for having shot 100% on their firearms qualification, with Higbee being recognized as the class “Top Shot.”McClarty also singled out students Higbee, Levi Chermak, Austin Sievert, Stephenson, Shawn Hyde, Tanner Houck, Blake Stromgren and Ford for assisting a motorist whose car had flipped. The students were en route to Cheney on their downtime when they noticed the overturned vehicle. They worked together to ensure that not only was the motorist safe, but that the area was safe as well. The students tended to the motorist and controlled traffic until the Reno County EMS, Pretty Prairie Fire Department and Kansas Highway Patrol arrived on the scene. Graduates receive certificates of course completion from KLETC and Kansas law enforcement certification from the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training, the state’s law enforcement licensing authority. The training course fulfills the state requirement for law enforcement training. Classroom lectures and hands-on applications help train officers to solve the increasingly complex problems they face in the line of duty.Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC trains the majority of municipal, county and state law enforcement officers in Kansas and oversees the training of the remaining officers at seven authorized and certified academy programs operated by local law enforcement agencies and the Kansas Highway Patrol.About 300 officers enroll annually in KLETC 14-week basic training programs. KLETC offers continuing education and specialized training to over 10,000 Kansas officers each year. KLETC is located one mile west and one mile south of Yoder, near Hutchinson, and is a division of University of Kansas Professional &amp; Continuing Education.The graduates, who began their training in February 2020, represented 15 municipal, county and state law enforcement agencies from across Kansas. Graduates who granted permission to release their names are listed below by county and agency:Butler CountyMadysn Mitchell, Butler Community College Department of Public SafetyChase CountyEric Hidecker, Chase County Sheriff's OfficeCrawford CountyLogan Curran, Girard Police DepartmentDoniphan CountyDexter Holliday, Iowa Tribal Police DepartmentDouglas CountyVanessa Schmalz, Baldwin City Police Department Tyler Stephenson, Baldwin City Police DepartmentGreeley CountyTylor Preeo, Greeley County Sheriff's OfficeJohnson CountyShawn Hyde, Kansas City Public Schools Police DepartmentLeavenworth CountyNancy Martinez, Leavenworth Police Department Brittany Swanbeck, Leavenworth Police DepartmentLyon CountyXochitl Arzate, Emporia State University Police DepartmentMeade CountyChandler Ford, Meade County Sheriff's OfficeMitchell CountyLogan Higbee, Beloit Police DepartmentPratt CountyColbe Austin, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; TourismLevi Chermak, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; TourismTanner Houck, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; TourismAustin Sievert, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; TourismBlake Stromgren, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, &amp; TourismRooks CountyRandall Benoit, Rooks County Sheriff's OfficeRussell CountyChase Newacheck, Russell County Sheriff's OfficeSumner CountyDarrell Moody, Belle Plaine Police Department

KLETC graduates 267th Basic Training Class

Those taking care of youngsters in the Salt City can get some help.

"The City Council allocated part of our CDBG-CV funds for just daycare, the childcare providers," said Ryan Hvitlok with the city. "We are opening that up, a microgrant of, I believe, the maximum is $2500. The closing date would be September 15."

"CDBG-CV funds can be used for preparation or response to the coronavirus," Hvitlok said. "If they have incurred costs for hand sanitizer, purchasing PPE, those type of things, that would be an allowed expense."

If there's been a reduction in head count, the money can also be used for rent, utlities or payroll, as long as they haven't gotten other federal money.

"The only other stipulation, this is from the feds and not from the city, is that it has to be a business, a for profit institution," Hvitlok said. "Unfortunately non-profits would not be eligible."

$12,500 of CDBG-CV grant funds were allocated for the program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598971851425.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Those taking care of youngsters in the Salt City can get some help."The City Council allocated part of our CDBG-CV funds for just daycare, the childcare providers," said Ryan Hvitlok with the city. "We are opening that up, a microgrant of, I believe, the maximum is $2500. The closing date would be September 15."There are some limits on the program."CDBG-CV funds can be used for preparation or response to the coronavirus," Hvitlok said. "If they have incurred costs for hand sanitizer, purchasing PPE, those type of things, that would be an allowed expense."If there's been a reduction in head count, the money can also be used for rent, utlities or payroll, as long as they haven't gotten other federal money."The only other stipulation, this is from the feds and not from the city, is that it has to be a business, a for profit institution," Hvitlok said. "Unfortunately non-profits would not be eligible."$12,500 of CDBG-CV grant funds were allocated for the program.

For profit daycares can get grant money for COVID response


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;In a Zoom video posted to Buhler USD 313's Facebook Tuesday night, Reno County Health Department Interim Director Karen Hammersmith explained the important numbers that will help shape policy for how open schools are this fall in Reno County.

"It really goes with the positive test rate in your community," Hammersmith said. "You can get your gating criteria from that positive test rate."

As of the Tuesday afternoon report on the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard, the overall positive test rate in the county is 10.93%, but if you take out the cases related to the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, the positive test rate is 7.13%.

Under the gating criteria provided on the video Tuesday, the county would be under a yellow condition, as the positive test rate is between 5.7% and 10% for the community outside of the prison population and there are 50 non-prison related active cases in the county. The case count alone would put the county in the green, but in combination with the positive test rate, they would be in the yellow. Hammersmith contends that such numbers would only be valid if testing were done differently.

"We are only testing patients that we feel like are going to probably have COVID," Hammersmith said. "We're testing symptomatic patients that are sick, presenting with symptoms. Of course, our positive test rate is going to be a little bit more elevated, because we're not doing community testing. We're not trying to test people out and about with no symptoms that haven't been surrounded by anybody."

There is a belief that if community testing were done, that the positive test rate would be lower.

"This positive test rate, it makes a lot of sense, if we can reach a minimum testing percentage by the month," said Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman. "Our goal is obviously to get to 1.8% of our population tested for every two-week period, which is like 3.6% of our population."

Until that threshold of testing is reached, new case count numbers will carry the day. In other words, the number to watch at this point is new case count. It is not currently available as its own statistic on the county's dashboard. 

"This is a two week number of community cases," Couchman said. "This is going to be hand calculated by D.J. and the Health Department and worked to give to us, this whole Reno County team of the Health Department, the Hutchinson Clinic, Dr. Pauly and the Reno County Superintendents to take this data."

The County will be in the green as long as it remains under 56 new active non-prison cases. Between 57 and 61, there will be consultation with the Health Department. From 62 to 113 would be a yellow condition, 114 to 118 would be another consultation, 119 to 170 would put the county in the orange and over 175 would be a red condition. Again, this is all general population two-week case count, leaving aside any cases that may be active at Hutchinson Correctional Facility.

Between the lack of that specific number being readily available on the dashboard as of Wednesday morning and the fact that each color threshold has a gray area between them, a lot of the power for the decision making will remain in the hands of the local superintendents and their school boards.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599043662066.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;In a Zoom video posted to Buhler USD 313's Facebook Tuesday night, Reno County Health Department Interim Director Karen Hammersmith explained the important numbers that will help shape policy for how open schools are this fall in Reno County."It really goes with the positive test rate in your community," Hammersmith said. "You can get your gating criteria from that positive test rate."As of the Tuesday afternoon report on the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard, the overall positive test rate in the county is 10.93%, but if you take out the cases related to the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, the positive test rate is 7.13%.Under the gating criteria provided on the video Tuesday, the county would be under a yellow condition, as the positive test rate is between 5.7% and 10% for the community outside of the prison population and there are 50 non-prison related active cases in the county. The case count alone would put the county in the green, but in combination with the positive test rate, they would be in the yellow. Hammersmith contends that such numbers would only be valid if testing were done differently."We are only testing patients that we feel like are going to probably have COVID," Hammersmith said. "We're testing symptomatic patients that are sick, presenting with symptoms. Of course, our positive test rate is going to be a little bit more elevated, because we're not doing community testing. We're not trying to test people out and about with no symptoms that haven't been surrounded by anybody."There is a belief that if community testing were done, that the positive test rate would be lower."This positive test rate, it makes a lot of sense, if we can reach a minimum testing percentage by the month," said Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman. "Our goal is obviously to get to 1.8% of our population tested for every two-week period, which is like 3.6% of our population."Until that threshold of testing is reached, new case count numbers will carry the day. In other words, the number to watch at this point is new case count. It is not currently available as its own statistic on the county's dashboard. "This is a two week number of community cases," Couchman said. "This is going to be hand calculated by D.J. and the Health Department and worked to give to us, this whole Reno County team of the Health Department, the Hutchinson Clinic, Dr. Pauly and the Reno County Superintendents to take this data."The County will be in the green as long as it remains under 56 new active non-prison cases. Between 57 and 61, there will be consultation with the Health Department. From 62 to 113 would be a yellow condition, 114 to 118 would be another consultation, 119 to 170 would put the county in the orange and over 175 would be a red condition. Again, this is all general population two-week case count, leaving aside any cases that may be active at Hutchinson Correctional Facility.Between the lack of that specific number being readily available on the dashboard as of Wednesday morning and the fact that each color threshold has a gray area between them, a lot of the power for the decision making will remain in the hands of the local superintendents and their school boards.

Reno County gating criteria not hard and fast

HESSTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed a cluster of COVID-19 cases on the Hesston College campus.&nbsp;

According to the health department, the cluster includes five confirmed cases of COVID-19. Another 17 individuals have been tested and two test results are pending.

The college says all individuals involved have self-isolated off campus.&nbsp;

Hesston College established preventative measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 including single dorm rooms, staggered move-in and registration days. Face masks are also required in common areas and daily self-screening.&nbsp;

The college raised its CARES Level of Concern to “restricted,” which is in the middle of the five-level plan.&nbsp;

Information and updates on Hesston College’s COVID-19 response can be found at <a href="https://www.hesston.edu/covid-19-response/">www.hesston.edu/covid-19-response</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598989398952.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HESSTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed a cluster of COVID-19 cases on the Hesston College campus.&nbsp;According to the health department, the cluster includes five confirmed cases of COVID-19. Another 17 individuals have been tested and two test results are pending.The college says all individuals involved have self-isolated off campus.&nbsp;Hesston College established preventative measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 including single dorm rooms, staggered move-in and registration days. Face masks are also required in common areas and daily self-screening.&nbsp;The college raised its CARES Level of Concern to “restricted,” which is in the middle of the five-level plan.&nbsp;Information and updates on Hesston College’s COVID-19 response can be found at <a href="https://www.hesston.edu/covid-19-response/">www.hesston.edu/covid-19-response</a>.

COVID-19 cluster identified at Hesston College

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two-time Grammy Award winner and multi-platinum recording artist Lauren Daigle will have a live drive-up concert event at the Kansas State Fairgrounds later this month.

Daigle’s concert will be Friday, Sept. 25, at 7:30 p.m. in the parking lot east of the Fairgrounds off Plum Street. It is one of two “Autumn Nights” performances. The other event takes place at Rogersville, Missouri.

The drive-up concert series is being presented by a third-party promoter who is renting the lot. “Autumn Nights” will adhere to CDC recommendations and both local and state health and safety regulations and guidelines. The fair is working with Reno County Health Department officials who approved the event.

Attendees will be allowed to book their own oversized parking space when tickets go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 3. To secure tickets early, fans can participate in a Spotify Fans First pre-sale at 10 a.m. Wednesday.&nbsp;

“In a year where so many events have canceled, along with the Kansas State Fair, we are thrilled to be afforded the opportunity to have such a tremendous talent like Lauren,” Nathan McClanahan, the fair’s facility rental coordinator said. “She reaches across many platforms of music. We are looking forward to having Lauren grace us live on Friday, Sept. 25.”

“Autumn Nights” will showcase Daigle’s lively spirit and raw vocal power in an outdoor festival setting. She will feature some of her biggest hits, including her platinum single “Rescue” and the triple-platinum-selling and Grammy Award-winning No. 1 single “You Say.” She will also perform tracks from her previous platinum-selling album,&nbsp;“How Can It Be.” Scott Mulvahill will be Daigle’s special guest for both of the socially-distanced events.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598993539601.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two-time Grammy Award winner and multi-platinum recording artist Lauren Daigle will have a live drive-up concert event at the Kansas State Fairgrounds later this month.Daigle’s concert will be Friday, Sept. 25, at 7:30 p.m. in the parking lot east of the Fairgrounds off Plum Street. It is one of two “Autumn Nights” performances. The other event takes place at Rogersville, Missouri.The drive-up concert series is being presented by a third-party promoter who is renting the lot. “Autumn Nights” will adhere to CDC recommendations and both local and state health and safety regulations and guidelines. The fair is working with Reno County Health Department officials who approved the event.Attendees will be allowed to book their own oversized parking space when tickets go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 3. To secure tickets early, fans can participate in a Spotify Fans First pre-sale at 10 a.m. Wednesday.&nbsp;“In a year where so many events have canceled, along with the Kansas State Fair, we are thrilled to be afforded the opportunity to have such a tremendous talent like Lauren,” Nathan McClanahan, the fair’s facility rental coordinator said. “She reaches across many platforms of music. We are looking forward to having Lauren grace us live on Friday, Sept. 25.”“Autumn Nights” will showcase Daigle’s lively spirit and raw vocal power in an outdoor festival setting. She will feature some of her biggest hits, including her platinum single “Rescue” and the triple-platinum-selling and Grammy Award-winning No. 1 single “You Say.” She will also perform tracks from her previous platinum-selling album,&nbsp;“How Can It Be.” Scott Mulvahill will be Daigle’s special guest for both of the socially-distanced events.&nbsp;“I cannot wait to get back on the stage,” Daigle said. “I’ve missed seeing everyone, sharing the music and having fun! Playing a drive-up is definitely going to be different, but I’m excited to keep the music flowing. It’s going to be beautiful.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Besides Grammy Awards, Daigle is a five-time Billboard Music Award winner and a three-time American Music Award winner. Her ability to connect with her audience has captured critical acclaim and recognition as the fastest-selling new artist for her genre of the last decade.&nbsp;&nbsp;The crossover hit, “You Say,” has become the longest-running No. 1 song on the weekly Hot Christian Songs Chart at 100 weeks. The smash also spent multiple weeks at No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary Chart, appearing in the Top 20 on Billboard’s Top 40 chart and Top 5 on the Hot AC Chart. Her follow-up single, “Rescue,” has recently been certified platinum. Daigle’s Grammy Award-winning album, “Look Up Child,” debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 Albums chart and has been certified platinum.&nbsp;&nbsp;For ticket pricing and other information, visit <a href="http://laurendaigle.com/autumnnights/?fbclid=IwAR3GvqtvU1xp70wxZ-c505HbYVthSAFAyl59UEStJlLn6Wd88LvneZJm0_k">Daigle’s website</a>. The fair will have more information soon on other details.

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