HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Parks Director Justin Combs says the city could reopen parks in phase two of the governor's Ad Astra plan. The city had originally made the restrictions more stringent, foregoing any opening of outdoor playgrounds and similar areas until phase three of the program.&nbsp;

“We did that prior to the KRPA, Kansas Recreation and Parks Association, they came out with some recommendations after we did our phasing that recommended that playgrounds open up in phase two, ” Combs said. “I think we were just being a little more cautious.”

The reopening would include the city’s three splash pads. Combs says those who use the parks will be met with signage that warns them the park equipment is not being sanitized.

“There’s also recommendation out there that for every 30 feet of the perimeter of the playground postings about proper hygiene . . . social distancing. And we’d put a note in there that playgrounds are not being sanitized.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

As far as the Salt City Splash goes, plans are to open the pool during phase two as well. Combs says the pool already met the limits on social gathering even before the pandemic:

“The way you kind of figure a six-foot bubble is 30 square feet per person,” Combs said. “Recommendation for a pool is 50 square feet per person. So our total capacity at the pool is actually lower than technically you could get in there with social distancing.”

Combs said that the pool would have to make sure social distancing is being followed in lines at the ticket gate and concession stand.

All of this is assuming Gov. Kelly lets the state move onto the next phase of the Ad Astra plan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588713695233.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Parks Director Justin Combs says the city could reopen parks in phase two of the governor's Ad Astra plan. The city had originally made the restrictions more stringent, foregoing any opening of outdoor playgrounds and similar areas until phase three of the program.&nbsp;“We did that prior to the KRPA, Kansas Recreation and Parks Association, they came out with some recommendations after we did our phasing that recommended that playgrounds open up in phase two, ” Combs said. “I think we were just being a little more cautious.”The reopening would include the city’s three splash pads. Combs says those who use the parks will be met with signage that warns them the park equipment is not being sanitized.“There’s also recommendation out there that for every 30 feet of the perimeter of the playground postings about proper hygiene . . . social distancing. And we’d put a note in there that playgrounds are not being sanitized.”&nbsp;&nbsp;As far as the Salt City Splash goes, plans are to open the pool during phase two as well. Combs says the pool already met the limits on social gathering even before the pandemic:“The way you kind of figure a six-foot bubble is 30 square feet per person,” Combs said. “Recommendation for a pool is 50 square feet per person. So our total capacity at the pool is actually lower than technically you could get in there with social distancing.”Combs said that the pool would have to make sure social distancing is being followed in lines at the ticket gate and concession stand.All of this is assuming Gov. Kelly lets the state move onto the next phase of the Ad Astra plan.

City parks could open again June 1

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell says the city council should expect to meet more often to hammer out a budget this year than in the past. Cantrell says, with the ever-changing economic picture, it will be necessary.

“It may be in some scenarios we have budget meetings that are a little bit closer in frequency than what they might have been in years past,” Cantrell noted. “In years past you might have done budget meetings two, two and a half weeks apart. In this scenario, you might do them a week to 10 days apart.”

As far as the numbers for 2021, Cantrell says it will be a tough budget year because of the economic slowdown, but is not sure how much damage will be done.

“The real component for our city is going to be sales tax,” Cantrell said. “That’s what we’re waiting for to see really how hard the hammer’s going to hit. We know we’re going to hit, we don’t know exactly how hard.”

Cantrell says news of a 4% reduction in revenue is probably not accurate.

“I wouldn’t let the 4% reduction in the last report be reflective of any indicative position to take,” Cantrell warned. “It’s going to be worse than that I think . . . from what we’re hearing.”

Cantrell says he wants to set up the budget meetings to coincide with any new information that will come the city’s way. The hope is to not push action on the budget too close to the deadline to have the final numbers in place. The city must have a budget in place by mid-August.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584040246154.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell says the city council should expect to meet more often to hammer out a budget this year than in the past. Cantrell says, with the ever-changing economic picture, it will be necessary.“It may be in some scenarios we have budget meetings that are a little bit closer in frequency than what they might have been in years past,” Cantrell noted. “In years past you might have done budget meetings two, two and a half weeks apart. In this scenario, you might do them a week to 10 days apart.”As far as the numbers for 2021, Cantrell says it will be a tough budget year because of the economic slowdown, but is not sure how much damage will be done.“The real component for our city is going to be sales tax,” Cantrell said. “That’s what we’re waiting for to see really how hard the hammer’s going to hit. We know we’re going to hit, we don’t know exactly how hard.”Cantrell says news of a 4% reduction in revenue is probably not accurate.“I wouldn’t let the 4% reduction in the last report be reflective of any indicative position to take,” Cantrell warned. “It’s going to be worse than that I think . . . from what we’re hearing.”Cantrell says he wants to set up the budget meetings to coincide with any new information that will come the city’s way. The hope is to not push action on the budget too close to the deadline to have the final numbers in place. The city must have a budget in place by mid-August.

Cantrell says council should be prepared to meet often

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community Foundation awarded $40,200 to area nonprofit organizations Friday in its most recent round of Fund for Hutchinson grants.

Those receiving awards are Stage 9, who will get $10,000 to collaborate with the Hutchinson Art Center, Blue Barn Productions and Jillian's on “Hutchinson: The Pandemic!” an original script transformed into a live virtual performance accessible to ticket holders through YouTube. 

The Reno County Historical Society will get $15,200 to help the Reno County Museum digitize the archival collection of Pat Mitchell. The images will be made available online at WSU's Special Collections page at no additional cost to patrons. This is a two-year grant of $15,200 per year. 

And finally, the Hutchinson Historic Fox Theatre is receiving $15,000 for the purchase of a monitor mixer and stage monitors, equipment that is essential for all productions but is currently rented for each performance. 

Established in 1990 by the foundation’s founding board of directors as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County, more than $3.7 million have been awarded to more than 170 area organizations and agencies from this fund.

Proposals for Fund for Hutchinson grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577817951297.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community Foundation awarded $40,200 to area nonprofit organizations Friday in its most recent round of Fund for Hutchinson grants.Those receiving awards are Stage 9, who will get $10,000 to collaborate with the Hutchinson Art Center, Blue Barn Productions and Jillian's on “Hutchinson: The Pandemic!” an original script transformed into a live virtual performance accessible to ticket holders through YouTube. The Reno County Historical Society will get $15,200 to help the Reno County Museum digitize the archival collection of Pat Mitchell. The images will be made available online at WSU's Special Collections page at no additional cost to patrons. This is a two-year grant of $15,200 per year. And finally, the Hutchinson Historic Fox Theatre is receiving $15,000 for the purchase of a monitor mixer and stage monitors, equipment that is essential for all productions but is currently rented for each performance. Established in 1990 by the foundation’s founding board of directors as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County, more than $3.7 million have been awarded to more than 170 area organizations and agencies from this fund.Proposals for Fund for Hutchinson grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.

HCF announces Fund for Hutch grant recipients

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. — Gasoline prices are beginning to rise, but not as fast as they might in a normal year.

"We are starting to see an upswing with demand," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's translated over the last couple of weeks to increases at the pumps. Prices are on the upswing. This week, nearly every state pushed more expensive than we saw last week. That is mostly due to states and businesses reopening."

These are still the cheapest gas prices headed into the Memorial Day holiday since 2003.

"Today's national average is $1.88," Steward said. "In Kansas, the average is $1.58, which is seventh cheapest in the country."

Reno County's average as of Tuesday is $1.55 with Hutchinson in the $1.52 to $1.55 range.

"Certainly, it is going to take awhile for demand to get back where it typically is this time of year," Steward said. "We are seeing a slow increase in that, which is reflected in that modest increase at the gas pumps that we've been seeing over the last week or two."

This week also brings an end to the EPA's waiver on the sale of winter blend gasoline. Summer blend gasoline is more expensive to make, so prices may go up on that fact alone.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Gasoline prices are beginning to rise, but not as fast as they might in a normal year."We are starting to see an upswing with demand," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That's translated over the last couple of weeks to increases at the pumps. Prices are on the upswing. This week, nearly every state pushed more expensive than we saw last week. That is mostly due to states and businesses reopening."These are still the cheapest gas prices headed into the Memorial Day holiday since 2003."Today's national average is $1.88," Steward said. "In Kansas, the average is $1.58, which is seventh cheapest in the country."Reno County's average as of Tuesday is $1.55 with Hutchinson in the $1.52 to $1.55 range."Certainly, it is going to take awhile for demand to get back where it typically is this time of year," Steward said. "We are seeing a slow increase in that, which is reflected in that modest increase at the gas pumps that we've been seeing over the last week or two."This week also brings an end to the EPA's waiver on the sale of winter blend gasoline. Summer blend gasoline is more expensive to make, so prices may go up on that fact alone.

Gas prices beginning to rise, still lower than usual for Memorial Day

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved an action plan for housing rehab funds during Tuesday’s meeting.&nbsp;

Earlier this year the city was awarded $265,500 in community development block grants for housing rehab projects. The funds will help rehab 10 properties in the Creekside neighborhood. The area covers 6th to 8th Avenue and between Main and Adams Streets.

The hope is to provide enough funding to add about 20-years od usable life to the homes under the program according to Planning Director Ryan Hvitlok. So far 21 applications have been turned into the city from residents eligible for the funding.

The program is also intended for landlords to make improvements to rentals. The landlord must match the grant with 25% of their own funds and must freeze the rent on an improved unit for a period of three years.

Hvitlok says they hope to begin taking bids for the projects in July and have work on the qualified homes starting in late July or early August.

Also Tuesday, The Council approved the contract work for renovating the main runway at the Hutchinson Airport. The project will be fully funded by the FAA as part of the CARES act. The project includes sealing the runway and new markings. The project costs $587,671 and is expected to begin in later this summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943691499.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved an action plan for housing rehab funds during Tuesday’s meeting.&nbsp;Earlier this year the city was awarded $265,500 in community development block grants for housing rehab projects. The funds will help rehab 10 properties in the Creekside neighborhood. The area covers 6th to 8th Avenue and between Main and Adams Streets.The hope is to provide enough funding to add about 20-years od usable life to the homes under the program according to Planning Director Ryan Hvitlok. So far 21 applications have been turned into the city from residents eligible for the funding.The program is also intended for landlords to make improvements to rentals. The landlord must match the grant with 25% of their own funds and must freeze the rent on an improved unit for a period of three years.Hvitlok says they hope to begin taking bids for the projects in July and have work on the qualified homes starting in late July or early August.Also Tuesday, The Council approved the contract work for renovating the main runway at the Hutchinson Airport. The project will be fully funded by the FAA as part of the CARES act. The project includes sealing the runway and new markings. The project costs $587,671 and is expected to begin in later this summer.

City Council approves housing grant


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — School isn't going to look the same in the fall, though the details are still being worked out.

"We need to be prepared for a blended learning model," said USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks. "That's what Randy Watson has challenged us with. The other thing with online learning that we're in the process of studying and we're waiting for some information from the Kansas State Department of Education, is taking our standards and changing, transitioning those into competencies, more of a competencies based model."

How much time is spent in the school building is still up in the air right now.

"You might have some seat time, some direct instruction that we're very familiar with and accustomed to," Folks said. "Then, you might have some online stuff that you do at home. That's what a blended model means to me."

If you are using online instruction at all, there are resource issues with that.

"We have many more challenges that we have faced, where about 30% of our families did not have internet connectivity," Folks said. "We had five or six hundred Chromebooks that we deployed to our families, to our students. Our families, our students need to have that high-speed connectivity and they also need to have a device to have blended learning."

Thanks to recent action by the USD 308 school board, the district will be one-to-one with devices for students from grades 4-12 for next year.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — School isn't going to look the same in the fall, though the details are still being worked out."We need to be prepared for a blended learning model," said USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks. "That's what Randy Watson has challenged us with. The other thing with online learning that we're in the process of studying and we're waiting for some information from the Kansas State Department of Education, is taking our standards and changing, transitioning those into competencies, more of a competencies based model."How much time is spent in the school building is still up in the air right now."You might have some seat time, some direct instruction that we're very familiar with and accustomed to," Folks said. "Then, you might have some online stuff that you do at home. That's what a blended model means to me."If you are using online instruction at all, there are resource issues with that."We have many more challenges that we have faced, where about 30% of our families did not have internet connectivity," Folks said. "We had five or six hundred Chromebooks that we deployed to our families, to our students. Our families, our students need to have that high-speed connectivity and they also need to have a device to have blended learning."Thanks to recent action by the USD 308 school board, the district will be one-to-one with devices for students from grades 4-12 for next year.

USD 308 trying to prepare for blended learning in the fall


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Virtual Third Thursdays continue as this month we Celebrate Active Communities and Hutch Has Talent, taking place May 21.

This month features an Interactive Community Walking event. Due to current restrictions, individuals aren’t able to gather for a community walk or group fitness class, but we can get connected in real-time through our Hutch Rec Virtual Radio Station, thanks to Brian Davis with bEpic! Entertainment. Tune in to the Hutch Rec virtual radio station for music and a guided walk with Hutch Rec personal trainer and fitness coordinator Courtney Clennan. The radio link will be shared on the Third Thursday Facebook page and thirdthursdayhutch.com on May 21. Session 1 starts at 5:30 p.m., with Session 2 starting at 6:30 p.m.

May is Bike Month, and we want to celebrate you and your family riding bicycles. Share a pic as you enjoy a bike ride on Thursday, share using #bikewalkhutch to the Third Thursday Instagram and Facebook pages, and you’ll be entered to win a Mophie Powerstation from Nex-Tech Wireless. Individuals also are encouraged to stop by the Nex-Tech Wireless store at 1441 E. 30th Ave, Ste E – right off the northeast trail – throughout the day on May 21 for treats.

The Hutchinson Art Center, Stage 9, Blue Barn Productions, and Hutch Rec have partnered to present Hutch Has Talent. Visit the Third Thursday Facebook page and thirdthursdayhutch.com on May 21 at 6:30 p.m. as we post the Hutch Has Talent video, a compilation of Hutchinson and Reno County talent.

For more information on this month’s Third Thursday, visit Third Thursday Facebook and Instagram pages as well as thirdthursdayhutch.com.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Virtual Third Thursdays continue as this month we Celebrate Active Communities and Hutch Has Talent, taking place May 21.This month features an Interactive Community Walking event. Due to current restrictions, individuals aren’t able to gather for a community walk or group fitness class, but we can get connected in real-time through our Hutch Rec Virtual Radio Station, thanks to Brian Davis with bEpic! Entertainment. Tune in to the Hutch Rec virtual radio station for music and a guided walk with Hutch Rec personal trainer and fitness coordinator Courtney Clennan. The radio link will be shared on the Third Thursday Facebook page and thirdthursdayhutch.com on May 21. Session 1 starts at 5:30 p.m., with Session 2 starting at 6:30 p.m.May is Bike Month, and we want to celebrate you and your family riding bicycles. Share a pic as you enjoy a bike ride on Thursday, share using #bikewalkhutch to the Third Thursday Instagram and Facebook pages, and you’ll be entered to win a Mophie Powerstation from Nex-Tech Wireless. Individuals also are encouraged to stop by the Nex-Tech Wireless store at 1441 E. 30th Ave, Ste E – right off the northeast trail – throughout the day on May 21 for treats.The Hutchinson Art Center, Stage 9, Blue Barn Productions, and Hutch Rec have partnered to present Hutch Has Talent. Visit the Third Thursday Facebook page and thirdthursdayhutch.com on May 21 at 6:30 p.m. as we post the Hutch Has Talent video, a compilation of Hutchinson and Reno County talent.For more information on this month’s Third Thursday, visit Third Thursday Facebook and Instagram pages as well as thirdthursdayhutch.com.

May Third Thursday Celebrates Active Living; Features Hutch Has Talent


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall says he and his family are taking hydroxychloroquine prophylactically. He trusts the science.

"I think there's enough good studies out there," Marshall said Tuesday. "If you're over the age of 65, in my case, if you're exposed to the virus, in my case working in those clinics, that I think it's a good idea to take the hydroxychloroquine prophylactically as well as zinc." 

Marshall is clear that you must talk to your doctor first before starting any drug regimen.

"That's a decision for you and your doctor," Marshall said. "Each person's medical situation is unique. I think it's a very safe drug. It's been around for, goodness, 60 years. Every year, we're giving thousands of people this drug. People with say, lupus and other autoimmune problems. We use this drug for malaria. I've taken it when we've done mission work across the world and we go into malaria-infected countries, you take this prophylactically, as well."

Marshall said he is glad President Trump is taking hydroxychloroquine.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall says he and his family are taking hydroxychloroquine prophylactically. He trusts the science."I think there's enough good studies out there," Marshall said Tuesday. "If you're over the age of 65, in my case, if you're exposed to the virus, in my case working in those clinics, that I think it's a good idea to take the hydroxychloroquine prophylactically as well as zinc." Marshall is clear that you must talk to your doctor first before starting any drug regimen."That's a decision for you and your doctor," Marshall said. "Each person's medical situation is unique. I think it's a very safe drug. It's been around for, goodness, 60 years. Every year, we're giving thousands of people this drug. People with say, lupus and other autoimmune problems. We use this drug for malaria. I've taken it when we've done mission work across the world and we go into malaria-infected countries, you take this prophylactically, as well."Marshall said he is glad President Trump is taking hydroxychloroquine.

Marshall taking hydroxychloroquine prophylactically due to work in clinics


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti announced some new data is available on the Reno County dashboard regarding the COVID-19 cases that have tested positive.

"We've added another tab at the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard, it's entitled symptoms," Baldetti said. "It lists out the symptoms that have been present with those that have tested positive for Reno County. You can go out there and kind of see what the symptom spread is for those that have been infected and then the average number of days that they are symptomatic and the underlying conditions that have been associated with those positives."

As of Tuesday, the 41 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have had an average of 13 days with symptoms. Twelve have had specific underlying conditions, three with cardiovascular disease, one with chronic lung disease, two with diabetes, one immunosuppressed and five with a history of smoking.

Twenty-nine of the 41 had a fever, 28 a cough, 20 myalgia, 17 runny nose, 15 shortness of breath, 13 sore throat, eight with chills, seven with nausea or vomiting, four with headache, two with diarrhea and four with other symptoms not listed.

As of Tuesday morning, all 41 cases diagnosed have recovered.

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti announced some new data is available on the Reno County dashboard regarding the COVID-19 cases that have tested positive."We've added another tab at the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard, it's entitled symptoms," Baldetti said. "It lists out the symptoms that have been present with those that have tested positive for Reno County. You can go out there and kind of see what the symptom spread is for those that have been infected and then the average number of days that they are symptomatic and the underlying conditions that have been associated with those positives."As of Tuesday, the 41 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have had an average of 13 days with symptoms. Twelve have had specific underlying conditions, three with cardiovascular disease, one with chronic lung disease, two with diabetes, one immunosuppressed and five with a history of smoking.Twenty-nine of the 41 had a fever, 28 a cough, 20 myalgia, 17 runny nose, 15 shortness of breath, 13 sore throat, eight with chills, seven with nausea or vomiting, four with headache, two with diarrhea and four with other symptoms not listed.As of Tuesday morning, all 41 cases diagnosed have recovered.

Symptom information on closed cases now part of county dashboard


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
An economist with the Sandlian Center for Entrepreneurial Government at the Kansas Policy Institute is concerned that the additional unemployment payments approved as part of COVID-19 relief at the federal level may slow growth at the state level.

"About half of all Kansas workers can receive more money than their prior full paycheck if they stayed home and drew an unemployment benefit," said Michael Austin. "Not only does that potentially set the unemployment rate into double digits, but it pushes back economic recovery into August at the earliest."

The additional $600 a week in unemployment was designed to keep people at home during the pandemic.

"It kind of makes sense, if you think about it," Austin said. "If your employer, or the government, forces you to stay home and not work, at least there are some funds to help you get by. But, if Kansas is intending to reopen, then this relief actually becomes a discouraging burden. Kansas has to retool that unemployment to their reopening plan. Otherwise, it will just discourage Kansans from returning to work. It will limit the ability of businesses to reopen and of course, it will expand the economic recession."

There are ways to encourage work, even while the additional money is available.

"There is a solution I think Governor Kelly and the Kansas Department of Labor can take," Austin said. "They can increase the earnings threshold, so that more Kansans can work and receive unemployment benefits. Currently in Kansas, you can make $270 a week before your unemployment benefit starts being clawed back. Perhaps we should raise it to something like $300 a week, which is what Georgia has done. If it pays to stay home, Kansas should make it pay to work."

Proposals currently in Congress would potentially extend the additional federal benefit.

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
An economist with the Sandlian Center for Entrepreneurial Government at the Kansas Policy Institute is concerned that the additional unemployment payments approved as part of COVID-19 relief at the federal level may slow growth at the state level."About half of all Kansas workers can receive more money than their prior full paycheck if they stayed home and drew an unemployment benefit," said Michael Austin. "Not only does that potentially set the unemployment rate into double digits, but it pushes back economic recovery into August at the earliest."The additional $600 a week in unemployment was designed to keep people at home during the pandemic."It kind of makes sense, if you think about it," Austin said. "If your employer, or the government, forces you to stay home and not work, at least there are some funds to help you get by. But, if Kansas is intending to reopen, then this relief actually becomes a discouraging burden. Kansas has to retool that unemployment to their reopening plan. Otherwise, it will just discourage Kansans from returning to work. It will limit the ability of businesses to reopen and of course, it will expand the economic recession."There are ways to encourage work, even while the additional money is available."There is a solution I think Governor Kelly and the Kansas Department of Labor can take," Austin said. "They can increase the earnings threshold, so that more Kansans can work and receive unemployment benefits. Currently in Kansas, you can make $270 a week before your unemployment benefit starts being clawed back. Perhaps we should raise it to something like $300 a week, which is what Georgia has done. If it pays to stay home, Kansas should make it pay to work."Proposals currently in Congress would potentially extend the additional federal benefit.

Austin: Federal unemployment boost could slow state growth

By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/dentist-and-hygienest-describe-how-covid-19-disrupts-even-routine-teeth-cleanings">Kansas News Service</a>

Dental offices across Kansas closed for more than a month to make 
sure they weren’t using up critical personal protective equipment needed
 at hospitals.

Now many are beginning to clean molars and bicuspids again.

Brian
 Grimmett of the Kansas News Service spoke with David Lawlor, a dentist,
 and Julie Martin, the president of the Kansas Dental Hygienists’ 
Association, to find out what you can expect when you go and how they’re
 trying to keep patients and employees safe.

The interviews were performed separately. The questions and answers have been edited for brevity and clarity.

Kansas News Service: What are the expectations for getting back up and running?

David
 Lawlor: We’ve been pushing patients back for six weeks. I think at 
first people originally we’re trying to do their best to deal with it. 
If it’s something I can put off for a while I will. But the last couple 
weeks it’s kind of been like we reached our limit and people got to get 
in.

We’re having people stay out in their car and we’re taking 
the temperature of staff and patients. We’re wearing masks, we have face
 shields, we have gowns, and for our cleanings we’re not using the 
Cavitron (a machine that uses ultrasonic sound waves to remove plaque 
from teeth) which is a thing that can aerosolize the virus. We’re doing 
mostly hand scaling.

KNS: You mentioned the precautions 
you’re taking, but is there some extra hesitancy from you or your staff,
 saying, you know I'm working with spit all day?

Lawlor:
 Yes and No. It’s what we do all the time. We’ve always been at higher 
risk for getting sicknesses because we’re working in people’s mouths. 
So, that’s been the main thing, trying to limit the amount of high air 
flow into the mouth that causes things to get into the air. And you know
 what? I think it’s all going to work out and be just fine.

KNS: Have you heard from any people that are afraid to go back to work?

Julie
 Martin: It wouldn’t be normal to not be afraid to go back to work. 
Because if our vigilance isn’t high, then complacency comes into play.

I
 mean our procedures, the nature of our job is removing the bacterial 
load that’s in our oral cavities. And a lot of our equipment does 
produce those aerosols. That includes your polishing. That involves 
splatter. Some of your ultrasonic equipment which has, like the water 
spray and the vibration. That also creates an aerosol. So I mean, pretty
 much everything that we do can exasperate that potential for spread.

KNS: Financially, what has it been like taking six weeks off?

Martin:
 This is a tough choice. If we don’t go back to work we can’t pay our 
bills. So, the economic issue of all of this is devastating. Having to 
go back to work is great, but is it worth risking your health and the 
rest of the public’s health that you care for, is it worth it? That’s (a
 decision) each individual, each oral health care provider needs to 
make.

KNS: Should you go to the dentist right now?

Martin:
 You know, if you have an infection and you are in pain, then absolutely
 go in and see the dentist. Get that taken care of. Because if you do 
have infection and do have pain it has a tendency to spread into the 
rest of the system.

Brian Grimmett reports on the 
environment, energy and natural resources for KMUW in Wichita and the 
Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a>
 or email him at grimmett@kmuw.org. The Kansas News Service 
is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains 
Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and 
their connection to public policy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589809290522.png" alt=" A rinsing sink at the dentist office of David Lawlor in Wichita. Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> A rinsing sink at the dentist office of David Lawlor in Wichita. Brian Grimmett / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/dentist-and-hygienest-describe-how-covid-19-disrupts-even-routine-teeth-cleanings">Kansas News Service</a>Dental offices across Kansas closed for more than a month to make 
sure they weren’t using up critical personal protective equipment needed
 at hospitals.Now many are beginning to clean molars and bicuspids again.Brian
 Grimmett of the Kansas News Service spoke with David Lawlor, a dentist,
 and Julie Martin, the president of the Kansas Dental Hygienists’ 
Association, to find out what you can expect when you go and how they’re
 trying to keep patients and employees safe.The interviews were performed separately. The questions and answers have been edited for brevity and clarity.Kansas News Service: What are the expectations for getting back up and running?David
 Lawlor: We’ve been pushing patients back for six weeks. I think at 
first people originally we’re trying to do their best to deal with it. 
If it’s something I can put off for a while I will. But the last couple 
weeks it’s kind of been like we reached our limit and people got to get 
in.We’re having people stay out in their car and we’re taking 
the temperature of staff and patients. We’re wearing masks, we have face
 shields, we have gowns, and for our cleanings we’re not using the 
Cavitron (a machine that uses ultrasonic sound waves to remove plaque 
from teeth) which is a thing that can aerosolize the virus. We’re doing 
mostly hand scaling.KNS: You mentioned the precautions 
you’re taking, but is there some extra hesitancy from you or your staff,
 saying, you know I'm working with spit all day?Lawlor:
 Yes and No. It’s what we do all the time. We’ve always been at higher 
risk for getting sicknesses because we’re working in people’s mouths. 
So, that’s been the main thing, trying to limit the amount of high air 
flow into the mouth that causes things to get into the air. And you know
 what? I think it’s all going to work out and be just fine.KNS: Have you heard from any people that are afraid to go back to work?Julie
 Martin: It wouldn’t be normal to not be afraid to go back to work. 
Because if our vigilance isn’t high, then complacency comes into play.I
 mean our procedures, the nature of our job is removing the bacterial 
load that’s in our oral cavities. And a lot of our equipment does 
produce those aerosols. That includes your polishing. That involves 
splatter. Some of your ultrasonic equipment which has, like the water 
spray and the vibration. That also creates an aerosol. So I mean, pretty
 much everything that we do can exasperate that potential for spread.KNS: Financially, what has it been like taking six weeks off?Martin:
 This is a tough choice. If we don’t go back to work we can’t pay our 
bills. So, the economic issue of all of this is devastating. Having to 
go back to work is great, but is it worth risking your health and the 
rest of the public’s health that you care for, is it worth it? That’s (a
 decision) each individual, each oral health care provider needs to 
make.KNS: Should you go to the dentist right now?Martin:
 You know, if you have an infection and you are in pain, then absolutely
 go in and see the dentist. Get that taken care of. Because if you do 
have infection and do have pain it has a tendency to spread into the 
rest of the system.Brian Grimmett reports on the 
environment, energy and natural resources for KMUW in Wichita and the 
Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a>
 or email him at grimmett@kmuw.org. The Kansas News Service 
is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains 
Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and 
their connection to public policy.

Dentist, hygienist: COVID-19 disrupts even routine cleanings 

BURRTON, Kan. — A member of the Burrton City Council has been arrested on charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

The Harvey County Sheriff’s Office arrested&nbsp; 39-year-old Justin R. Freeman Monday afternoon.&nbsp; He's being held in the Harvey County Detention Center on a $750,000 bond. Freeman is a member of the Burrton City Council. This is his first year as a councilman.

“We understand there is a legal process still yet to play out, but we absolutely take these allegations with the utmost seriousness. We will work with the sheriff’s office in any way we can to aid their investigation,” Burrton Mayor Rodney Redinger said. “Right now, our priority is to offer our support, and our thoughts, and our prayers, for those involved.”

The Harvey County Attorney’s Office has charged Freeman on six counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577473881007.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BURRTON, Kan. — A member of the Burrton City Council has been arrested on charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.The Harvey County Sheriff’s Office arrested&nbsp; 39-year-old Justin R. Freeman Monday afternoon.&nbsp; He's being held in the Harvey County Detention Center on a $750,000 bond. Freeman is a member of the Burrton City Council. This is his first year as a councilman.“We understand there is a legal process still yet to play out, but we absolutely take these allegations with the utmost seriousness. We will work with the sheriff’s office in any way we can to aid their investigation,” Burrton Mayor Rodney Redinger said. “Right now, our priority is to offer our support, and our thoughts, and our prayers, for those involved.”The Harvey County Attorney’s Office has charged Freeman on six counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

Burrton City Council member arrested in child sex case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — During a special meeting of the Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday, members passed a resolution to thank staff and students for their work during a school year marked by a historic pandemic.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Resolution 2020-015 states:

WHEREAS, the mission of&nbsp;Hutchinson&nbsp;Public Schools is,&nbsp;“Educating,&nbsp;empowering&nbsp;and preparing&nbsp;every&nbsp;student for&nbsp;life,”&nbsp;the&nbsp;vision is,&nbsp;“Today's students prepared for&nbsp;tomorrow’s world,"&nbsp;and its&nbsp;core&nbsp;values&nbsp;are,&nbsp;“Honor,&nbsp;persistence,&nbsp;compassion, scholarship and&nbsp;excellence”;&nbsp;and

WHEREAS, the&nbsp;worldwide COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;caused Hutchinson&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Schools to be&nbsp;closed on March 13th, 2020, for the&nbsp;remainder&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;2019-2020 school&nbsp;year;&nbsp;and

WHEREAS, students and staff&nbsp;have&nbsp;undergone&nbsp;significant changes in&nbsp;the&nbsp;education process, which&nbsp;have&nbsp;resulted in&nbsp;the&nbsp;loss&nbsp;of daily&nbsp;classroom education,&nbsp;experiences outside the&nbsp;classroom, and supportive&nbsp;and nurturing&nbsp;relationships between staff&nbsp;and students;&nbsp;and

WHEREAS, the&nbsp;Hutchinson High&nbsp;School&nbsp;graduating&nbsp;class of&nbsp;2020&nbsp;will&nbsp;not experience prom, the&nbsp;traditional graduation&nbsp;ceremony&nbsp;and other&nbsp;milestone&nbsp;opportunities; and

NOW, THEREFORE,&nbsp;The&nbsp;Board of&nbsp;Education&nbsp;of&nbsp;USD 308&nbsp;Hutchinson&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Schools&nbsp;do hereby&nbsp;proclaim May&nbsp;22nd, 2020&nbsp;as

“USD 308 Appreciation&nbsp;Day”

in&nbsp;the&nbsp;City&nbsp;of&nbsp;Hutchinson&nbsp;and&nbsp;encourage&nbsp;all&nbsp;citizens to promote&nbsp;and&nbsp;celebrate&nbsp;the&nbsp;accomplishments of the&nbsp;staff&nbsp;and students&nbsp;in USD 308.

Hutchinson USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks shared his appreciation with students and staff.

"Words can't adequately express how proud I am of the great resolve shown by our students and staff during this pandemic,” he said. “I appreciate their creative and resilient work not only to learn and educate but to support each other during this pandemic&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 

The Hutchinson City Council is expected to approve the same resolution at its Tuesday meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

The COVID-19 pandemic led Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly to close school buildings in mid-March. Schools, in turn, had to move to online and other remote learning models. The closure led to the end of spring activities including co-curricular and extracurricular activities in Kansas as well as prom, awards ceremonies and graduations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Hutchinson High School has set July 26 as its graduation date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — During a special meeting of the Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday, members passed a resolution to thank staff and students for their work during a school year marked by a historic pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Resolution 2020-015 states:WHEREAS, the mission of&nbsp;Hutchinson&nbsp;Public Schools is,&nbsp;“Educating,&nbsp;empowering&nbsp;and preparing&nbsp;every&nbsp;student for&nbsp;life,”&nbsp;the&nbsp;vision is,&nbsp;“Today's students prepared for&nbsp;tomorrow’s world,"&nbsp;and its&nbsp;core&nbsp;values&nbsp;are,&nbsp;“Honor,&nbsp;persistence,&nbsp;compassion, scholarship and&nbsp;excellence”;&nbsp;andWHEREAS, the&nbsp;worldwide COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;caused Hutchinson&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Schools to be&nbsp;closed on March 13th, 2020, for the&nbsp;remainder&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;2019-2020 school&nbsp;year;&nbsp;andWHEREAS, students and staff&nbsp;have&nbsp;undergone&nbsp;significant changes in&nbsp;the&nbsp;education process, which&nbsp;have&nbsp;resulted in&nbsp;the&nbsp;loss&nbsp;of daily&nbsp;classroom education,&nbsp;experiences outside the&nbsp;classroom, and supportive&nbsp;and nurturing&nbsp;relationships between staff&nbsp;and students;&nbsp;andWHEREAS, the&nbsp;Hutchinson High&nbsp;School&nbsp;graduating&nbsp;class of&nbsp;2020&nbsp;will&nbsp;not experience prom, the&nbsp;traditional graduation&nbsp;ceremony&nbsp;and other&nbsp;milestone&nbsp;opportunities; andNOW, THEREFORE,&nbsp;The&nbsp;Board of&nbsp;Education&nbsp;of&nbsp;USD 308&nbsp;Hutchinson&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Schools&nbsp;do hereby&nbsp;proclaim May&nbsp;22nd, 2020&nbsp;as“USD 308 Appreciation&nbsp;Day”in&nbsp;the&nbsp;City&nbsp;of&nbsp;Hutchinson&nbsp;and&nbsp;encourage&nbsp;all&nbsp;citizens to promote&nbsp;and&nbsp;celebrate&nbsp;the&nbsp;accomplishments of the&nbsp;staff&nbsp;and students&nbsp;in USD 308.Hutchinson USD 308 Superintendent Mike Folks shared his appreciation with students and staff."Words can't adequately express how proud I am of the great resolve shown by our students and staff during this pandemic,” he said. “I appreciate their creative and resilient work not only to learn and educate but to support each other during this pandemic&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Hutchinson City Council is expected to approve the same resolution at its Tuesday meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The COVID-19 pandemic led Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly to close school buildings in mid-March. Schools, in turn, had to move to online and other remote learning models. The closure led to the end of spring activities including co-curricular and extracurricular activities in Kansas as well as prom, awards ceremonies and graduations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hutchinson High School has set July 26 as its graduation date.

USD 308 approves special resolution honoring students and teachers

Correction: A previous version of this story implied that the Sheriff's Office was certain of the identity of the caller to the Health Department. The investigation continues, but after a Monday evening call from Sheriff Campbell, they have not come to a definitive conclusion on that yet.


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Department director Nick Baldetti is having to deal with more negatives than just COVID-19.

"At the Health Department, unfortunately, we've received some rather hostile communication," Baldetti said. "It seemed to ramp up last week. We are actually, at the Health Department right now, we are locking the door throughout the day and a staff member will meet individuals who have an appointment at the door to let them in."

Baldetti believes the frustration is not necessarily directed toward local policy, but his staff is taking the brunt of it.

"The Health Department is the proximal entity to decisions being made in Topeka," Baldetti said. "It seemed some of that frustration and hostility that's in the community has been focused toward this department."

Baldetti did communicate with the Sheriff's Department on the issue.

"We're just looking into it," said Reno County Sheriff Darrian Campbell. "We're making some phone calls.&nbsp; I just want to encourage anybody that if they feel threatened or suspect anything, not to hesitate to call 911."

Campbell said they have not confirmed the person's identity who may have called the Health Department. Baldetti would not characterize the communication as threats, but believes the comments require some caution, in this day and age.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Correction: A previous version of this story implied that the Sheriff's Office was certain of the identity of the caller to the Health Department. The investigation continues, but after a Monday evening call from Sheriff Campbell, they have not come to a definitive conclusion on that yet.
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Department director Nick Baldetti is having to deal with more negatives than just COVID-19."At the Health Department, unfortunately, we've received some rather hostile communication," Baldetti said. "It seemed to ramp up last week. We are actually, at the Health Department right now, we are locking the door throughout the day and a staff member will meet individuals who have an appointment at the door to let them in."Baldetti believes the frustration is not necessarily directed toward local policy, but his staff is taking the brunt of it."The Health Department is the proximal entity to decisions being made in Topeka," Baldetti said. "It seemed some of that frustration and hostility that's in the community has been focused toward this department."Baldetti did communicate with the Sheriff's Department on the issue."We're just looking into it," said Reno County Sheriff Darrian Campbell. "We're making some phone calls.&nbsp; I just want to encourage anybody that if they feel threatened or suspect anything, not to hesitate to call 911."Campbell said they have not confirmed the person's identity who may have called the Health Department. Baldetti would not characterize the communication as threats, but believes the comments require some caution, in this day and age.

Baldetti: Health Department keeping secure office after digital hostility-UPDATED

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair announced that, after many raving reviews from her performance last year, Casi Joy will make another appearance at the great Kansas get together.

Joy will perform Sept. 13 at the Bretz and Young Arena.

A seasoned performer from Kansas City, her impressive social media presence eventually led to a highly-touted run on NBC’s The Voice where she instantly turned all four chairs. She was singled out by Rolling Stone as having one of the top 10 blind auditions of all time.

Joy has shared the stage with many notable country acts including Maren Morris, Keith Urban, Dustin Lynch and LOCASH.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589833660035.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair announced that, after many raving reviews from her performance last year, Casi Joy will make another appearance at the great Kansas get together.Joy will perform Sept. 13 at the Bretz and Young Arena.A seasoned performer from Kansas City, her impressive social media presence eventually led to a highly-touted run on NBC’s The Voice where she instantly turned all four chairs. She was singled out by Rolling Stone as having one of the top 10 blind auditions of all time.Joy has shared the stage with many notable country acts including Maren Morris, Keith Urban, Dustin Lynch and LOCASH.

Casi Joy coming back to Kansas State Fair

MOUNDRIDGE, Kan. — Mid Kansas Co-Op (MKC) announced last week that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Mid-West Fertilizer, Inc., in Paola, Kansas. The deal was finalized May 12.

"Together, the acquisition strengthens our position in the marketplace and will allow us to expand our services to create additional value for our owners and customers,” MKC President and CEO Brad Stedman said. "We see growth of our footprint as a key part of our strategy. Mid-West Fertilizer is a strong ag retail organization with a great team. The synergies gained through this acquisition will allow both companies to continue to achieve greater success."&nbsp;&nbsp;

The acquisition included grain, wholesale and retail agronomy, energy, feed and trucking. MKC and Mid-West Fertilizer have worked beside one another for three years through their relationship with Team Marketing Alliance, LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary of MKC. Mid-West will be operated as a wholly-owned subsidiary of MKC. Mid-West President Rod Silver will continue to provide leadership to the acquired company.&nbsp;

"We chose to partner with an organization that will continue to bring value to producers, provide employees career development opportunities and allow our organization to be successful well into the future," Silver said. "I look forward to the long-term value and new opportunities for our producers, employees and communities."

MKC, headquartered in Moundridge, Kansas, is a full-service farm cooperative offering a complete line of products, programs and services for both farm and urban customers throughout Kansas.&nbsp;

MKC’s current membership is nearly 10,000 and employs more than 375 workers. MKC opened for business in 1965.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589833304722.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MOUNDRIDGE, Kan. — Mid Kansas Co-Op (MKC) announced last week that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Mid-West Fertilizer, Inc., in Paola, Kansas. The deal was finalized May 12."Together, the acquisition strengthens our position in the marketplace and will allow us to expand our services to create additional value for our owners and customers,” MKC President and CEO Brad Stedman said. "We see growth of our footprint as a key part of our strategy. Mid-West Fertilizer is a strong ag retail organization with a great team. The synergies gained through this acquisition will allow both companies to continue to achieve greater success."&nbsp;&nbsp;The acquisition included grain, wholesale and retail agronomy, energy, feed and trucking. MKC and Mid-West Fertilizer have worked beside one another for three years through their relationship with Team Marketing Alliance, LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary of MKC. Mid-West will be operated as a wholly-owned subsidiary of MKC. Mid-West President Rod Silver will continue to provide leadership to the acquired company.&nbsp;"We chose to partner with an organization that will continue to bring value to producers, provide employees career development opportunities and allow our organization to be successful well into the future," Silver said. "I look forward to the long-term value and new opportunities for our producers, employees and communities."MKC, headquartered in Moundridge, Kansas, is a full-service farm cooperative offering a complete line of products, programs and services for both farm and urban customers throughout Kansas.&nbsp;MKC’s current membership is nearly 10,000 and employs more than 375 workers. MKC opened for business in 1965.

Mid Kansas Co-Op acquires Mid-West Fertilizer


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas Association of School Boards Vice President for Advocacy Mark Tallman believes that the budget is likely going to be largely left alone when the legislature returns Thursday for Sine Die.

"At this point, there are no public plans on the legislature's part, that we've seen anyway, to make any adjustments," Tallman said. "That means it would likely fall to the Governor. I think most of the action's going to come back to a couple of issues specifically related to the COVID pandemic."

If the Governor is forced to do allotments because revenue doesn't come in, that creates other issues.

"The state can't run a deficit," Tallman said. "If the governor is officially notified we are projecting a deficit in the State General Fund, she may make what are called allotments, to achieve an ending balance between zero and $100 million, they have to be across the board cuts. If we are projecting below zero, an actual deficit, then the governor can make targeted changes at that point."

If cuts need to be made and are across the board, they would hit education quite a bit.

"Over 50% of the State General Fund budget goes to K-12 state aid, because Kansas schools are heavily funded by state aid," Tallman said. "Another 11% goes to higher education, the state universities, community colleges, technical schools. Twenty-six percent goes to human services, which is everything from state hospitals, foster care and a large portion of that, I believe over a billion dollars, is the state's matching money that we have to put in to draw down Medicaid support."

There's also 6% for Public Safety. The rest of the SGF past that is just 5%. The argument is that the appropriators lose control if they leave allotments to the governor, but also they aren't politically accountable if it ends up being her office that has to cut.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas Association of School Boards Vice President for Advocacy Mark Tallman believes that the budget is likely going to be largely left alone when the legislature returns Thursday for Sine Die."At this point, there are no public plans on the legislature's part, that we've seen anyway, to make any adjustments," Tallman said. "That means it would likely fall to the Governor. I think most of the action's going to come back to a couple of issues specifically related to the COVID pandemic."If the Governor is forced to do allotments because revenue doesn't come in, that creates other issues."The state can't run a deficit," Tallman said. "If the governor is officially notified we are projecting a deficit in the State General Fund, she may make what are called allotments, to achieve an ending balance between zero and $100 million, they have to be across the board cuts. If we are projecting below zero, an actual deficit, then the governor can make targeted changes at that point."If cuts need to be made and are across the board, they would hit education quite a bit."Over 50% of the State General Fund budget goes to K-12 state aid, because Kansas schools are heavily funded by state aid," Tallman said. "Another 11% goes to higher education, the state universities, community colleges, technical schools. Twenty-six percent goes to human services, which is everything from state hospitals, foster care and a large portion of that, I believe over a billion dollars, is the state's matching money that we have to put in to draw down Medicaid support."There's also 6% for Public Safety. The rest of the SGF past that is just 5%. The argument is that the appropriators lose control if they leave allotments to the governor, but also they aren't politically accountable if it ends up being her office that has to cut.

Tallman: No budget changes imminent, but revenue decline could force allotments

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair grandstand has seen hundreds of musicians and comedians during its 107-year history. 

This year, the Kansas State Fair Museum exhibit will highlight many of those famous entertainers such as Evil Knievel who jumped a line of semi trucks in 1971.

The museum is also asking for any memorabilia you may have to share from a previous grandstand event that they could display during the fair.&nbsp;

If you have something to share Email the museum curator Charlotte Summers at crcsummers@cox.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589812675953.jpeg" alt="Evil Knievel jumps 10 semi's during the 1971 Kansas State Fair. This year the fair's museum will highlight the best grandstand acts from the past" />
 <figcaption>Evil Knievel jumps 10 semi's during the 1971 Kansas State Fair. This year the fair's museum will highlight the best grandstand acts from the past</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair grandstand has seen hundreds of musicians and comedians during its 107-year history. This year, the Kansas State Fair Museum exhibit will highlight many of those famous entertainers such as Evil Knievel who jumped a line of semi trucks in 1971.The museum is also asking for any memorabilia you may have to share from a previous grandstand event that they could display during the fair.&nbsp;If you have something to share Email the museum curator Charlotte Summers at crcsummers@cox.net.

State Fair Museum to highlight grandstand entertainment

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere will host a virtual program with Kansas astronaut Steven Hawley on Wednesday. Hawley and host Jim Remar will be taking an insider look at the Hubble Space Telescope. The program runs from 3 until 4 p.m. and will be available for viewing live on Zoom or the Cosmosphere Facebook page.

As a member of both the Hubble Space Telescope deployment and its servicing missions, Dr. Hawley will explain how the instrument has revolutionized space science data collection, expanded our knowledge of the universe and honor the Hubble Space Telescope's 30th year in operation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589815011568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere will host a virtual program with Kansas astronaut Steven Hawley on Wednesday. Hawley and host Jim Remar will be taking an insider look at the Hubble Space Telescope. The program runs from 3 until 4 p.m. and will be available for viewing live on Zoom or the Cosmosphere Facebook page.As a member of both the Hubble Space Telescope deployment and its servicing missions, Dr. Hawley will explain how the instrument has revolutionized space science data collection, expanded our knowledge of the universe and honor the Hubble Space Telescope's 30th year in operation.

Cosmosphere to host special virtual program on Hubble Telescope

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The parent company of Dillons is once again working to provide relief and benefits to its employees during the pandemic.&nbsp;

Kroger announced that it will provide a special Thank You Pay to hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call center associates to acknowledge their dedication to maintaining safe, clean and stocked stores.

The&nbsp; $130 million Thank You Pay bookends an Appreciation Pay first provided to frontline workers for their efforts at the start of the pandemic in March. It also follows multiple Hero Bonuses that were paid in April through mid-May, with final payment by May 23.

The one-time Thank You Pay, which will be $400 for qualified full-time associates and $200 for qualified part-time associates, will be paid out in two installments on May 30 and June 18.

As part of its ongoing investment in associate and customer safety, Kroger also announced today that it will continue its COVID-19 Emergency Leave guidelines to provide paid time off to associates most directly affected by the virus or experiencing related symptoms.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584040619502.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The parent company of Dillons is once again working to provide relief and benefits to its employees during the pandemic.&nbsp;Kroger announced that it will provide a special Thank You Pay to hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call center associates to acknowledge their dedication to maintaining safe, clean and stocked stores.The&nbsp; $130 million Thank You Pay bookends an Appreciation Pay first provided to frontline workers for their efforts at the start of the pandemic in March. It also follows multiple Hero Bonuses that were paid in April through mid-May, with final payment by May 23.The one-time Thank You Pay, which will be $400 for qualified full-time associates and $200 for qualified part-time associates, will be paid out in two installments on May 30 and June 18.As part of its ongoing investment in associate and customer safety, Kroger also announced today that it will continue its COVID-19 Emergency Leave guidelines to provide paid time off to associates most directly affected by the virus or experiencing related symptoms.&nbsp;

Kroger provides more incentives to employees

NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 15th case of coronavirus, or COVID-19, in Harvey County.

The confirmed case is a woman in her 40s. The woman is in home isolation. Testing was completed by a private lab. The case remains under investigation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the individual, as well as follow up on all contacts.

As of Friday, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported 7,886 cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. That number does not include this new Harvey County case. Harvey County has had 15 total cases, including 11 confirmed and four probable cases. Of the 15 cases, 11 individuals have met recovery criteria.

The KDHE recently began including probable cases in its county case counts. At this time, the KDHE does not include two probable Harvey County cases in the State’s counts because of the KDHE’s testing standards for older tests. However, Harvey County includes them in its counts.

The KDHE reported 61,488 people tested in the state as of Friday. There have been 494 individuals tested in Harvey County.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly has issued the State’s guidance for reopening, “Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas.” The state began Phase 1.5 of the guidance today. The plan in its entirety can be found at covid.ks.gov.

The KDHE has a phone hotline available to answer questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 at 1-866-534-3463.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584475841056.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 15th case of coronavirus, or COVID-19, in Harvey County.The confirmed case is a woman in her 40s. The woman is in home isolation. Testing was completed by a private lab. The case remains under investigation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the individual, as well as follow up on all contacts.As of Friday, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported 7,886 cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. That number does not include this new Harvey County case. Harvey County has had 15 total cases, including 11 confirmed and four probable cases. Of the 15 cases, 11 individuals have met recovery criteria.The KDHE recently began including probable cases in its county case counts. At this time, the KDHE does not include two probable Harvey County cases in the State’s counts because of the KDHE’s testing standards for older tests. However, Harvey County includes them in its counts.The KDHE reported 61,488 people tested in the state as of Friday. There have been 494 individuals tested in Harvey County.Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly has issued the State’s guidance for reopening, “Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas.” The state began Phase 1.5 of the guidance today. The plan in its entirety can be found at covid.ks.gov.The KDHE has a phone hotline available to answer questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 at 1-866-534-3463.

Case count in Harvey County now 15; 4 active

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

“We live in unprecedented times and need to take unprecedented measures.” I don’t know how many times I have heard this in the last two or three months. I know it is true, but I sure would like to go back to life before Covid-19. I know it’s wishful thinking, and soon we will be back to the new normal, whatever that will be. However, in the meantime things sure are unsettled.

We see that unease in agriculture too, and it worries me. One good thing is I think we have the general public’s attention.  There are some cracks in our food supply chain and consumers realize that agriculture cannot be taken for granted. That is good. We can do some good when it comes to the public’s awareness of where food on grocery store shelves comes from. But only if we do it in the right way.

We must think our actions through. If this pandemic has taught us anything it is that actions this minute can cause unintended consequences.

English writer G. K. Chesterton summed up the desire to make such changes in 1929 when he wrote, “There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, 'I don't see the use of this; let us clear it away.' To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: 'If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.”

In short, fences don’t build themselves, and people generally don’t spend their time, energy and capital building a fence which has no purpose. Before you change something, you need to understand the reason it was put in place.

That is why I am proud to be part of Kansas Farm Bureau. We are an organization that is grounded in grassroots activism, and we represent all of agriculture. Just by our very nature we are not prone to falling for the issue of the day and a knee jerk reaction. At times it might be frustrating that our reaction time is slowed by the need to gauge the members and develop policy. However, in the end it helps us to think the issues through and make sound decisions.

It is my opinion that Kansas Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau will help lead us through this unprecedented time because we represent all farmers and ranchers and we work to be a unified voice. We have the attention of the consumer, and it is important we work in a coordinated effort to make them understand the importance of a strong and resilient food production system. We cannot be using up political capital we are gaining by fighting amongst ourselves.

I agree there are issues that have been highlighted by this crisis and they need to be discussed, but  now is not the time for those discussions. Right now, the fence in the road is how food makes its way from farms and ranches across the country to forks at dining room tables around the globe. This crisis has certainly highlighted some of the challenges on that route, but it’s also given us an opportunity.

I ask that each of us make the effort to share the story of how we are #stillfarming to provide the food to feed a hungry world. This is our time and our opportunity to make an impact; let’s make the most of it.

"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.&nbsp;

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 </figure>Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher“We live in unprecedented times and need to take unprecedented measures.” I don’t know how many times I have heard this in the last two or three months. I know it is true, but I sure would like to go back to life before Covid-19. I know it’s wishful thinking, and soon we will be back to the new normal, whatever that will be. However, in the meantime things sure are unsettled.We see that unease in agriculture too, and it worries me. One good thing is I think we have the general public’s attention. There are some cracks in our food supply chain and consumers realize that agriculture cannot be taken for granted. That is good. We can do some good when it comes to the public’s awareness of where food on grocery store shelves comes from. But only if we do it in the right way.We must think our actions through. If this pandemic has taught us anything it is that actions this minute can cause unintended consequences.English writer G. K. Chesterton summed up the desire to make such changes in 1929 when he wrote, “There exists in such a case a certain institution or law; let us say, for the sake of simplicity, a fence or gate erected across a road. The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, 'I don't see the use of this; let us clear it away.' To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: 'If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.”In short, fences don’t build themselves, and people generally don’t spend their time, energy and capital building a fence which has no purpose. Before you change something, you need to understand the reason it was put in place.That is why I am proud to be part of Kansas Farm Bureau. We are an organization that is grounded in grassroots activism, and we represent all of agriculture. Just by our very nature we are not prone to falling for the issue of the day and a knee jerk reaction. At times it might be frustrating that our reaction time is slowed by the need to gauge the members and develop policy. However, in the end it helps us to think the issues through and make sound decisions.It is my opinion that Kansas Farm Bureau and the American Farm Bureau will help lead us through this unprecedented time because we represent all farmers and ranchers and we work to be a unified voice. We have the attention of the consumer, and it is important we work in a coordinated effort to make them understand the importance of a strong and resilient food production system. We cannot be using up political capital we are gaining by fighting amongst ourselves.I agree there are issues that have been highlighted by this crisis and they need to be discussed, but now is not the time for those discussions. Right now, the fence in the road is how food makes its way from farms and ranches across the country to forks at dining room tables around the globe. This crisis has certainly highlighted some of the challenges on that route, but it’s also given us an opportunity.I ask that each of us make the effort to share the story of how we are #stillfarming to provide the food to feed a hungry world. This is our time and our opportunity to make an impact; let’s make the most of it."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.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

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