HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emanuel Lutheran Church announced that the next TEFAP commodity distribution will be Sunday, August 30 from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Dillon Living Center at 1901 E 23rd.

The program is for low-income citizens of all ages and commodities are served on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is required and no paperwork is needed. Due to the large amount of participation, the church asks that you not try to come early and to form a single line with your vehicles.

Due to the pandemic, the building will be closed and distribution will be drive-up only and you will only be able to pick up boxes for yourself.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emanuel Lutheran Church announced that the next TEFAP commodity distribution will be Sunday, August 30 from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Dillon Living Center at 1901 E 23rd.The program is for low-income citizens of all ages and commodities are served on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is required and no paperwork is needed. Due to the large amount of participation, the church asks that you not try to come early and to form a single line with your vehicles.Due to the pandemic, the building will be closed and distribution will be drive-up only and you will only be able to pick up boxes for yourself.

TEFAP distribution is Sunday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Despite a very strong start, the number of people who used the Salt City Splash declined in 2020.&nbsp;

Ted Nelson of Hutch Rec says the pool saw tremendous use in the first month before attendance dropped off sharply in July. Numbers were able to rebound again in August but overall attendance was down about 10%, according to Nelson. Still, he was happy they got to stay open throughout the year with no problems related to the pandemic.

“We are happy to have finished out the season,” Nelson said. “We thought of some staff members getting sick which means others would quarantine which would cause us to have to close down for a brief time or early for the summer. We didn’t have either of those things.”

The splash numbers for 2020 totaled 28,250 compared with 31,524 in 2019. In Buhler, the numbers for the year were actually up with 5,638 taking advantage of the pool compared with 4,653 the year before.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Despite a very strong start, the number of people who used the Salt City Splash declined in 2020.&nbsp;Ted Nelson of Hutch Rec says the pool saw tremendous use in the first month before attendance dropped off sharply in July. Numbers were able to rebound again in August but overall attendance was down about 10%, according to Nelson. Still, he was happy they got to stay open throughout the year with no problems related to the pandemic.“We are happy to have finished out the season,” Nelson said. “We thought of some staff members getting sick which means others would quarantine which would cause us to have to close down for a brief time or early for the summer. We didn’t have either of those things.”The splash numbers for 2020 totaled 28,250 compared with 31,524 in 2019. In Buhler, the numbers for the year were actually up with 5,638 taking advantage of the pool compared with 4,653 the year before.

Pool attendance numbers fall after strong start

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Siemens Gamesa says it can continue to lead the way in wind energy into the future as it released its Virtual Capital Markets Day presentation.

The world's number one wind turbine maker says it will be able to weather the challenges brought on by outside factors including the pandemic.

“Public and government demand for clean energy solutions to the climate crisis will drive continued investment in renewable electricity generation and we are well positioned to deliver value to shareholders and society by playing a full role in that process,” Andreas Nauen, CEO of Siemens Gamesa said. “It has been a tough period for the industry and the company, but I am confident we have all the right components in place. Our people, technology, scale and global footprint are strong foundations on which to build a long-term industry leader.”

Siemens Gamesa has continued to see major growth in the offshore business sector and continues to try and gain ground in the onshore market. During its quarterly release last month the company said its order book increased by 14%. 

Onshore industry forecasts predict stable long-term demand, with estimated high level of annual installations of 55 GW through 2025 growing to more than 65 GW in 2030. 

Siemens Gamesa says it has defined a clear roadmap to return the onshore business to sustainable profitability including new technology, restructuring measures and reducing the complexity of its supply chain. It’s the supply chain issues that forced Siemens Gamesa to lay off a number of employees at the Hutchinson facility this past spring. The layoffs were short lived as the supply chain issues resolved.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), renewable energies will account for more than 50% of the global capacity mix in 2040 and wind is expected to attract the highest investments in that period, according to BNEF. 

Strong growth is expected in particular in the Offshore and Services markets over the next decade, while demand in Onshore will remain solid. Additionally, prospects are expected to be buoyed by the emergence of green hydrogen technologies in which Siemens Gamesa expects wind to play a key role according to the company release.

"We have a strong profitable competitive position in the growing Offshore (#1) and Services (#2) markets, and there is very significant potential in our Onshore business that we will realize through the turnaround process now underway,” Nauen said. “A new management team has been appointed to lead the turnaround. Additionally, through our new core shareholder, Siemens Energy, we will be part of an energy powerhouse, and we expect to be able to benefit from strong synergy potential.”

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Siemens Gamesa says it can continue to lead the way in wind energy into the future as it released its Virtual Capital Markets Day presentation.The world's number one wind turbine maker says it will be able to weather the challenges brought on by outside factors including the pandemic.“Public and government demand for clean energy solutions to the climate crisis will drive continued investment in renewable electricity generation and we are well positioned to deliver value to shareholders and society by playing a full role in that process,” Andreas Nauen, CEO of Siemens Gamesa said. “It has been a tough period for the industry and the company, but I am confident we have all the right components in place. Our people, technology, scale and global footprint are strong foundations on which to build a long-term industry leader.”Siemens Gamesa has continued to see major growth in the offshore business sector and continues to try and gain ground in the onshore market. During its quarterly release last month the company said its order book increased by 14%. Onshore industry forecasts predict stable long-term demand, with estimated high level of annual installations of 55 GW through 2025 growing to more than 65 GW in 2030. Siemens Gamesa says it has defined a clear roadmap to return the onshore business to sustainable profitability including new technology, restructuring measures and reducing the complexity of its supply chain. It’s the supply chain issues that forced Siemens Gamesa to lay off a number of employees at the Hutchinson facility this past spring. The layoffs were short lived as the supply chain issues resolved.According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), renewable energies will account for more than 50% of the global capacity mix in 2040 and wind is expected to attract the highest investments in that period, according to BNEF. Strong growth is expected in particular in the Offshore and Services markets over the next decade, while demand in Onshore will remain solid. Additionally, prospects are expected to be buoyed by the emergence of green hydrogen technologies in which Siemens Gamesa expects wind to play a key role according to the company release."We have a strong profitable competitive position in the growing Offshore (#1) and Services (#2) markets, and there is very significant potential in our Onshore business that we will realize through the turnaround process now underway,” Nauen said. “A new management team has been appointed to lead the turnaround. Additionally, through our new core shareholder, Siemens Energy, we will be part of an energy powerhouse, and we expect to be able to benefit from strong synergy potential.”

Siemens Gamesa is optimistic about its future


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Haven USD 312 is starting school in person and USD 312 Superintendent Clark Wedel believes there may have been an impact on enrollment because of that choice.

"We were concerned that we could be down 10 to 15%," Wedel said. "Currently, with what we believe our numbers are, it's less than 10%, somewhere in the range of 8 to 9%. Certainly, we've got a drop currently and we never really know. Sometimes they don't enroll and we still see them prior to count day on September 20."

The intent is that as long as infections don't spike, in person instruction will continue.

"The majority were anxious for the kids to get back in school," Wedel said. "We have some concerns on the other side, as well. Concerns for safety and just some apprehension about coming back."

The district wants to make clear that illness will be taken seriously if it occurs.

"We know that this could mean more absences, whether its kids or faculty," Wedel said. "Obviously, if a kid comes in with a temperature or a staff member comes in with a temperature, I think our level is 100.4, they would be sent back home at that point."

Also, those riding buses in the district will be temperature checked and must wear a mask to ride.

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Hutch
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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Haven USD 312 is starting school in person and USD 312 Superintendent Clark Wedel believes there may have been an impact on enrollment because of that choice."We were concerned that we could be down 10 to 15%," Wedel said. "Currently, with what we believe our numbers are, it's less than 10%, somewhere in the range of 8 to 9%. Certainly, we've got a drop currently and we never really know. Sometimes they don't enroll and we still see them prior to count day on September 20."The intent is that as long as infections don't spike, in person instruction will continue."The majority were anxious for the kids to get back in school," Wedel said. "We have some concerns on the other side, as well. Concerns for safety and just some apprehension about coming back."The district wants to make clear that illness will be taken seriously if it occurs."We know that this could mean more absences, whether its kids or faculty," Wedel said. "Obviously, if a kid comes in with a temperature or a staff member comes in with a temperature, I think our level is 100.4, they would be sent back home at that point."Also, those riding buses in the district will be temperature checked and must wear a mask to ride.

Wedel: Enrollment may have been impacted by Haven's in person choice


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall signed on to a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative asking him to work hard to get the tariffs reduced on ethanol in bilateral trade negotiations with Brazil.

"About a fourth of our corn crop in Kansas goes to an ethanol plant in Kansas," Marshall said. "Typically, those farmers are getting about a dime a bushel more. It's a good thing for agriculture. Additionally, there is about $4 billion in ethanol production in the state of Kansas annually as well. We have the opportunity to export ethanol to Brazil. They have a 20% tariff on it. It's not fair and reciprocal trade agreements."

Marshall sees bilateral negotiations as clearer at the end of the day.

"I think, if we can get them done, in the long run, these are better," Marshall said. "At the end of the day, we've now renegotiated over 55% of our ag export markets and we're sitting there on the cusp of the rest of them with Great Britain, with the European Union and with African nations as well. If it hadn't been for COVID, I think we'd probably be sitting at 65 or 70%."

There was a zero-duty exemption for U.S. ethanol previously from 2012 to 2017. The letter is asking for reinstatement of that provision.

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Hutch
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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall signed on to a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative asking him to work hard to get the tariffs reduced on ethanol in bilateral trade negotiations with Brazil."About a fourth of our corn crop in Kansas goes to an ethanol plant in Kansas," Marshall said. "Typically, those farmers are getting about a dime a bushel more. It's a good thing for agriculture. Additionally, there is about $4 billion in ethanol production in the state of Kansas annually as well. We have the opportunity to export ethanol to Brazil. They have a 20% tariff on it. It's not fair and reciprocal trade agreements."Marshall sees bilateral negotiations as clearer at the end of the day."I think, if we can get them done, in the long run, these are better," Marshall said. "At the end of the day, we've now renegotiated over 55% of our ag export markets and we're sitting there on the cusp of the rest of them with Great Britain, with the European Union and with African nations as well. If it hadn't been for COVID, I think we'd probably be sitting at 65 or 70%."There was a zero-duty exemption for U.S. ethanol previously from 2012 to 2017. The letter is asking for reinstatement of that provision.

Marshall: Work with Brazil on ethanol exports


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Those who don't need their retirement money this year have a short time to put it back.

"The IRS is reminding owners and beneficiaries of IRAs and retirement plans who have taken a required minimum distribution or RMD this year that they have an option to return it to that original plan or roll it over into another qualified plan," said spokesperson Michael Devine. "That deadline is August 31."

That would mean you don't have to pay tax on it this year.

"Normally, once you take out that RMD, you have to pay tax on it," Devine said. "What's even worse is that, if you don't take out a required minimum distribution, the penalty is 50% of what you should have taken out. The CARES Act, for this year only, waives that."

This waiver includes RMDs for individuals who turned age 70 ½ in 2019 and took their first RMD in 2020.

"If you haven't talked to your plan manager about returning or rolling over the required minimum distribution, you need to do that very quickly," Devine said. "It probably takes time to make that happen."

The CARES Act provisions apply to most retirement plans, including traditional IRAs, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, 457(b) plans, profit sharing plans and other defined contribution plans.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Those who don't need their retirement money this year have a short time to put it back."The IRS is reminding owners and beneficiaries of IRAs and retirement plans who have taken a required minimum distribution or RMD this year that they have an option to return it to that original plan or roll it over into another qualified plan," said spokesperson Michael Devine. "That deadline is August 31."That would mean you don't have to pay tax on it this year."Normally, once you take out that RMD, you have to pay tax on it," Devine said. "What's even worse is that, if you don't take out a required minimum distribution, the penalty is 50% of what you should have taken out. The CARES Act, for this year only, waives that."This waiver includes RMDs for individuals who turned age 70 ½ in 2019 and took their first RMD in 2020."If you haven't talked to your plan manager about returning or rolling over the required minimum distribution, you need to do that very quickly," Devine said. "It probably takes time to make that happen."The CARES Act provisions apply to most retirement plans, including traditional IRAs, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, 457(b) plans, profit sharing plans and other defined contribution plans.

IRS: Deadline to put back RMDs is Monday

BUHLER, Kan. — A Reno County man was injured in a motorcycle accident Monday night.&nbsp;

The Reno County Sheriff's Department reports that 67-year-old Jesse Gangwere of Buhler&nbsp;was riding in the 6300 block of East 69th Avenue when he lost control of the bike and crashed.

Gangwere was taken by EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for treatment. He was wearing a helmet. The accident happened around 9 p.m. two miles west of Buhler near the Sandhills State Park.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — A Reno County man was injured in a motorcycle accident Monday night.&nbsp;The Reno County Sheriff's Department reports that 67-year-old Jesse Gangwere of Buhler&nbsp;was riding in the 6300 block of East 69th Avenue when he lost control of the bike and crashed.Gangwere was taken by EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for treatment. He was wearing a helmet. The accident happened around 9 p.m. two miles west of Buhler near the Sandhills State Park.

Motorcycle accident injures Buhler man

TOPEKA, Kan. —&nbsp;Sterling High School has been selected as the KSHSAA Performing Arts School of Excellence Award Winner.

A selection committee was formed from the following associations: Kansas Music Educators Association, Kansas Speech Communication Association, and the Kansas Thespians. Leaders from these three associations, along with the KSHSAA staff, collaborated to discuss numerous high schools that scored exceptionally high in debate, speech, music and theater during the 2019-20 school year. The committee and the KSHSAA chose one winner and one finalist from across Kansas. The two schools will be recognized with a certificate from the KSHSAA.

Finalist:&nbsp;Lansing High School

“The KSHSAA made a commitment to our schools in 2018 to annually recognize outstanding performing arts schools in the state of Kansas. This award is a wonderful testimony to our schools’ professionalism and efforts with students,” said Craig Manteuffel, KSHSAA. “It is very difficult to flourish in all categories of the performing arts and we are so proud to honor these schools for 2020-21.”

Sterling High School’s administration and performing arts department will be recognized with a plaque by the KSHSAA during a Sterling High School event this fall.

TOPEKA, Kan. —&nbsp;Sterling High School has been selected as the KSHSAA Performing Arts School of Excellence Award Winner.A selection committee was formed from the following associations: Kansas Music Educators Association, Kansas Speech Communication Association, and the Kansas Thespians. Leaders from these three associations, along with the KSHSAA staff, collaborated to discuss numerous high schools that scored exceptionally high in debate, speech, music and theater during the 2019-20 school year. The committee and the KSHSAA chose one winner and one finalist from across Kansas. The two schools will be recognized with a certificate from the KSHSAA.Winner:&nbsp;Sterling High SchoolFinalist:&nbsp;Lansing High School“The KSHSAA made a commitment to our schools in 2018 to annually recognize outstanding performing arts schools in the state of Kansas. This award is a wonderful testimony to our schools’ professionalism and efforts with students,” said Craig Manteuffel, KSHSAA. “It is very difficult to flourish in all categories of the performing arts and we are so proud to honor these schools for 2020-21.”Sterling High School’s administration and performing arts department will be recognized with a plaque by the KSHSAA during a Sterling High School event this fall.

Sterling High School honored by KSHSAA

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A man serving numerous life sentences for rape and kidnapping in Johnson and Reno counties will be back in a Reno County courtroom Friday.

Forty-five-year-old James Strader has filed a motion claiming numerous errors connected to his case in Reno County including failure to correct erroneous and false testimony, and imposing an illegal sentence, among other claims.

Strader was sentenced to life terms for aggrvated battery, rape and burglary in an April 2003 case in Johnson County and convictions of rape, kidnapping and aggravated burglary in Reno County in February of 2003. He won't be eligible for parole until July of 2080.

Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton says he will argue that the motion has been filed well out of the allotted time. Friday's hearing is simply a status hearing to determine where the motion will go from here.

Strader was convicted in the kidnapping of a Hutchinson woman. That woman said she was sexually assaulted by a man who came to her door, said he had car trouble and asked to use the phone. She said he pulled a knife once he got inside.

The woman said she was driven to Kansas City before escaping early the next morning.

Strader was also convicted of raping a woman from Gardner, Kansas, and a 14-year-old girl in Missouri. He was arrested after he was stopped by police in Richfield, Utah.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A man serving numerous life sentences for rape and kidnapping in Johnson and Reno counties will be back in a Reno County courtroom Friday.Forty-five-year-old James Strader has filed a motion claiming numerous errors connected to his case in Reno County including failure to correct erroneous and false testimony, and imposing an illegal sentence, among other claims.Strader was sentenced to life terms for aggrvated battery, rape and burglary in an April 2003 case in Johnson County and convictions of rape, kidnapping and aggravated burglary in Reno County in February of 2003. He won't be eligible for parole until July of 2080.Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton says he will argue that the motion has been filed well out of the allotted time. Friday's hearing is simply a status hearing to determine where the motion will go from here.Strader was convicted in the kidnapping of a Hutchinson woman. That woman said she was sexually assaulted by a man who came to her door, said he had car trouble and asked to use the phone. She said he pulled a knife once he got inside.The woman said she was driven to Kansas City before escaping early the next morning.Strader was also convicted of raping a woman from Gardner, Kansas, and a 14-year-old girl in Missouri. He was arrested after he was stopped by police in Richfield, Utah.

Man serving multiple life sentences back in court Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department is located in a small building in the 200 block of West 2nd Avenue.

With the number of employees on hand, it makes for a crowded existence. Reno County Commissioners took time to discuss how to find more space for the Health Department during Tuesday’s meeting. Tentative plans are to use a small building across the street from the Health Department. The rent would be $1,000 per month, according to County Administrator Randy Partington. Commissioner Ron Hirst had a different idea.

“I would suggest that we look at the possibility of utilizing this first floor of the courthouse,” Hirst said. “Yes, we might have to buy some partitions and so forth for offices . . . we’ve been looking for the last three and a half years for something to utilize that space.”

Commissioner Ron Sellers was opposed to the idea, but did say that Hirst's suggestion should be explored.

“My feelings are the open area of the courthouse out in front of us is not very well situated for office areas,” Sellers said. “In my opinion, there’s some higher use for that space in the future.”

Still, Sellers asked that the option be explored before any contract is signed for the building across from the Health Department.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department is located in a small building in the 200 block of West 2nd Avenue.With the number of employees on hand, it makes for a crowded existence. Reno County Commissioners took time to discuss how to find more space for the Health Department during Tuesday’s meeting. Tentative plans are to use a small building across the street from the Health Department. The rent would be $1,000 per month, according to County Administrator Randy Partington. Commissioner Ron Hirst had a different idea.“I would suggest that we look at the possibility of utilizing this first floor of the courthouse,” Hirst said. “Yes, we might have to buy some partitions and so forth for offices . . . we’ve been looking for the last three and a half years for something to utilize that space.”Commissioner Ron Sellers was opposed to the idea, but did say that Hirst's suggestion should be explored.“My feelings are the open area of the courthouse out in front of us is not very well situated for office areas,” Sellers said. “In my opinion, there’s some higher use for that space in the future.”Still, Sellers asked that the option be explored before any contract is signed for the building across from the Health Department.No action was taken by the board.

Health Department looking for more space

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler School District has always relied on Hutchinson USD 308 to provide summer lunches.&nbsp;

With the pandemic, the district sought out and was successful in securing funding for its own program that ran from the last few weeks of school until Aug. 14. The program was successful.

According to Kay Cook with USD 313, the district served 10,302 breakfasts during the period and 10,547 lunches.

The district also says it will be providing meals for students attending class remotely this year. Meals will be available for pick up at both Union Valley Elementary and Buhler High School. A sign-up sheet is available and will run week to week. Meals will be the same as those provided to in-person students.&nbsp;

Pick-up times will be from 10:50 a.m. until 11:10 a.m. at Union Valley and 11:15 a.m. until 11:40 a.m. at Buhler High School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler School District has always relied on Hutchinson USD 308 to provide summer lunches.&nbsp;With the pandemic, the district sought out and was successful in securing funding for its own program that ran from the last few weeks of school until Aug. 14. The program was successful.According to Kay Cook with USD 313, the district served 10,302 breakfasts during the period and 10,547 lunches.The district also says it will be providing meals for students attending class remotely this year. Meals will be available for pick up at both Union Valley Elementary and Buhler High School. A sign-up sheet is available and will run week to week. Meals will be the same as those provided to in-person students.&nbsp;Pick-up times will be from 10:50 a.m. until 11:10 a.m. at Union Valley and 11:15 a.m. until 11:40 a.m. at Buhler High School.

Buhler summer meal program numbers released


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Rick Kraus, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Hutchinson USD 308, says it will likely be later this fall before an agreement is reached between teachers and the district on this year's contract terms. 


"The goal is always to have a contract in place before the end of a school year," Kraus said. "We were hoping that this would be the first year we would actually have a contract done in May, but the reality is that when the pandemic hit, the idea of negotiating remotely was not appealing to anybody."

The current school funding formula is so enrollment dependent that it doesn't make sense to set expenses before you know how many students you are serving at this point.

"I think it will be after September 20, probably before we have a lot of conversation about money," Kraus said. "The finance formula from the state of Kansas requires current year weightings. Any change in enrollment may dictate a change in our funding for the current school year. The board is going to want to wait until we know exactly what our enrollment is for the 2021 school year before we know exactly how much money we have to offer for raises across the district for its employees."

School starts Thursday and there are still a large number of families in the district that choose to enroll on opening day, so those numbers aren't solid yet.

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NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Rick Kraus, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Hutchinson USD 308, says it will likely be later this fall before an agreement is reached between teachers and the district on this year's contract terms. 
"The goal is always to have a contract in place before the end of a school year," Kraus said. "We were hoping that this would be the first year we would actually have a contract done in May, but the reality is that when the pandemic hit, the idea of negotiating remotely was not appealing to anybody."The current school funding formula is so enrollment dependent that it doesn't make sense to set expenses before you know how many students you are serving at this point."I think it will be after September 20, probably before we have a lot of conversation about money," Kraus said. "The finance formula from the state of Kansas requires current year weightings. Any change in enrollment may dictate a change in our funding for the current school year. The board is going to want to wait until we know exactly what our enrollment is for the 2021 school year before we know exactly how much money we have to offer for raises across the district for its employees."School starts Thursday and there are still a large number of families in the district that choose to enroll on opening day, so those numbers aren't solid yet.

Kraus: Contract will wait until enrollment is firm

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>
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 <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. — 
Hutchinson Chamber CEO Debra Teufel knows there's still a long way to go for the local economy in recovering from COVID-19's effects, but she remains optimistic.

"There is still a lot of hurting out there," Teufel said Wednesday. "From an unemployment perspective, we're at 7%. We're double where we were at this time last year. We have come down since where we were early in April. Unemployment spiked to just over 11% then. It came down to 6.5%  and then in July, it went back up slightly. From a retailer perspective, I think that retail remained fairly strong here after businesses were able to reopen."

Some businesses did close with COVID-19 as the final straw, but some are starting, too.

"We saw some business closure in some of our retailers," Teufel said. "Then, we saw Crow and Co. emerge as a new startup business to kind of backfill one of our vacancies downtown. We've seen some new health and nutrition businesses pop up. I think there's still strong, entrepreneurial pent up activity out there. From a manufacturing standpoint, I think manufacturing remains somewhat soft, but RFP activity has been strong."

The hope is that people will start making things in the U.S. again, rather than relying on international supply chains.

"I'm excited about the possibility that this country gets back to a place that we make more things here," Teufel said. "Hutchinson's a perfect place for that. We have a very diversified economy that knows how to make things well. I think we can be a beneficiary of that."

Supply chain issues at both Siemens and Collins Bus related to the pandemic gave them some struggles earlier in the year, but things are going okay for them right now.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Chamber CEO Debra Teufel knows there's still a long way to go for the local economy in recovering from COVID-19's effects, but she remains optimistic."There is still a lot of hurting out there," Teufel said Wednesday. "From an unemployment perspective, we're at 7%. We're double where we were at this time last year. We have come down since where we were early in April. Unemployment spiked to just over 11% then. It came down to 6.5% and then in July, it went back up slightly. From a retailer perspective, I think that retail remained fairly strong here after businesses were able to reopen."Some businesses did close with COVID-19 as the final straw, but some are starting, too."We saw some business closure in some of our retailers," Teufel said. "Then, we saw Crow and Co. emerge as a new startup business to kind of backfill one of our vacancies downtown. We've seen some new health and nutrition businesses pop up. I think there's still strong, entrepreneurial pent up activity out there. From a manufacturing standpoint, I think manufacturing remains somewhat soft, but RFP activity has been strong."The hope is that people will start making things in the U.S. again, rather than relying on international supply chains."I'm excited about the possibility that this country gets back to a place that we make more things here," Teufel said. "Hutchinson's a perfect place for that. We have a very diversified economy that knows how to make things well. I think we can be a beneficiary of that."Supply chain issues at both Siemens and Collins Bus related to the pandemic gave them some struggles earlier in the year, but things are going okay for them right now.

Teufel: Economy still in recovery, but reason to be optimistic


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Friday night is another performance for the Family Community Theatre's Old Time Radio Hour.

"We're going to do a version of an episode of Gunsmoke and one of The Lone Ranger," said director Craig Williams. "We're going to have a night of westerns and it will be about an hour in length. We're going to start with Gunsmoke and end with The Lone Ranger."

Eagle Radio's own Glen Grunwald is in the cast for both episodes.

"This is not just sitting up there and reading the script," Grunwald said. "You have to do voice inflection and kind of remember how they listen. I've kind of come up with a character. The same way with the Lone Ranger. He had a specific cadence and voice pattern that I'm trying to mimic to some extent."

Unlike some things other local groups have been doing, the show online Friday night is free, but Family Community Theatre would encourage donations if you like the show.

"It is a time when it is difficult," Williams said. "It's difficult for our actors, because they don't have a chance to be on stage. If people are wanting to assist us, we certainly would accept that and we would be very appreciative. You would be our hero."

The performance begins at 7 p.m. Friday on Youtube.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598439208784.png" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Friday night is another performance for the Family Community Theatre's Old Time Radio Hour."We're going to do a version of an episode of Gunsmoke and one of The Lone Ranger," said director Craig Williams. "We're going to have a night of westerns and it will be about an hour in length. We're going to start with Gunsmoke and end with The Lone Ranger."Eagle Radio's own Glen Grunwald is in the cast for both episodes."This is not just sitting up there and reading the script," Grunwald said. "You have to do voice inflection and kind of remember how they listen. I've kind of come up with a character. The same way with the Lone Ranger. He had a specific cadence and voice pattern that I'm trying to mimic to some extent."Unlike some things other local groups have been doing, the show online Friday night is free, but Family Community Theatre would encourage donations if you like the show."It is a time when it is difficult," Williams said. "It's difficult for our actors, because they don't have a chance to be on stage. If people are wanting to assist us, we certainly would accept that and we would be very appreciative. You would be our hero."The performance begins at 7 p.m. Friday on Youtube.

Westerns on Youtube Friday from FCT


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The non-cluster related case count in Reno County is still below 50 as of Tuesday evening. 

The Reno County dashboard says that of the 205 cases reported, 154 are from Hutchinson Correctional Facility, with two still lingering from a religious gathering. All other cluster related cases have recovered.

666 people have been diagnosed. 460 have recovered. One person has died.

6,437 tests have been administered, with 5,771 negative. Overall positive test rate is 10.35%. If you remove the prison cluster, the community positive test rate is 6.91%

10.24% of the Reno County population has been tested.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The non-cluster related case count in Reno County is still below 50 as of Tuesday evening. The Reno County dashboard says that of the 205 cases reported, 154 are from Hutchinson Correctional Facility, with two still lingering from a religious gathering. All other cluster related cases have recovered.666 people have been diagnosed. 460 have recovered. One person has died.6,437 tests have been administered, with 5,771 negative. Overall positive test rate is 10.35%. If you remove the prison cluster, the community positive test rate is 6.91%10.24% of the Reno County population has been tested.

More than 3 out of 4 Reno County COVID-19 cases in HCF cluster Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County continued to find a silver lining in the economy as sales tax revenue set another record for the month of August.

According to figures released by the Reno County Treasurer's Office, the county took in $458,663. That’s more than $45,000 better than the same month last year and another $42,000 higher than last month.

The county has set all-time highs for sales tax collections despite the pandemic. Whether the trend can continue remains to be seen and many feel the higher numbers are being driven by big ticket items and are not sustainable. Still, the numbers show that people were still buying during the late spring when the pandemic was starting to hit the local economy.&nbsp;

To date, the county has taken in $3,122,207 — which is ahead of last year's pace.&nbsp;

The numbers reflect shopping for the month of June.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565223563029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County continued to find a silver lining in the economy as sales tax revenue set another record for the month of August.According to figures released by the Reno County Treasurer's Office, the county took in $458,663. That’s more than $45,000 better than the same month last year and another $42,000 higher than last month.The county has set all-time highs for sales tax collections despite the pandemic. Whether the trend can continue remains to be seen and many feel the higher numbers are being driven by big ticket items and are not sustainable. Still, the numbers show that people were still buying during the late spring when the pandemic was starting to hit the local economy.&nbsp;To date, the county has taken in $3,122,207 — which is ahead of last year's pace.&nbsp;The numbers reflect shopping for the month of June.

County sales tax collections strong again

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Public Works announced Tuesday that a two-mile stretch of Buhler/Haven Road will be closed throughout the day on Thursday.

KDOT will be doing work on the section of the road from U.S. 50 south to Illinois and north of U.S. 50 to Avenue G.

The work should be completed by the end of the day. If you have any questions about this or any other road project, contact Reno County Public Works at 620-694-2976.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598390224957.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Public Works announced Tuesday that a two-mile stretch of Buhler/Haven Road will be closed throughout the day on Thursday.KDOT will be doing work on the section of the road from U.S. 50 south to Illinois and north of U.S. 50 to Avenue G.The work should be completed by the end of the day. If you have any questions about this or any other road project, contact Reno County Public Works at 620-694-2976.

Portion of Buhler/Haven Road to close Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce will host Business After Hours on Thursday. The event is sponsored by Hutton Construction.&nbsp;

The after hours will be held at the Cosmosphere from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Attendees will have the chance to win one of five great prizes — all valued at $100 or more.&nbsp;

Social distancing will be encouraged and masks will be required for all attendees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce will host Business After Hours on Thursday. The event is sponsored by Hutton Construction.&nbsp;The after hours will be held at the Cosmosphere from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Attendees will have the chance to win one of five great prizes — all valued at $100 or more.&nbsp;Social distancing will be encouraged and masks will be required for all attendees.

Chamber to host Business After Hours Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners held a public hearing, but in the end, tabled any action on vacating a portion of Mohawk Road during Tuesday’s meeting.

The road along the east side of the landfill is being closed so the landfill can move its entryway and scale house east to the road's present location. It's part of an overall plan to give a facelift to the landfill facilities. The closing also allows the landfill to use land east of the road.

Area landowners and others expressed concern over the size of a cul-de-sac that is proposed to turn traffic around. The county will redesign that portion of the road and then come back to the commission for action during next week's meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586977431557.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners held a public hearing, but in the end, tabled any action on vacating a portion of Mohawk Road during Tuesday’s meeting.The road along the east side of the landfill is being closed so the landfill can move its entryway and scale house east to the road's present location. It's part of an overall plan to give a facelift to the landfill facilities. The closing also allows the landfill to use land east of the road.Area landowners and others expressed concern over the size of a cul-de-sac that is proposed to turn traffic around. The county will redesign that portion of the road and then come back to the commission for action during next week's meeting.

Commission tables action on Mohawk Road

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan.
— 
Pretty Prairie Superintendent Randy Hendrickson is excited for school to start in person this week.

"For every school district, this is an incredibly exciting and stressful time with the five and a half months of not having students," Hendrickson said. "We're also unique in that, as a small, rural school, that we are increasing in enrollment and we have new staff members and so we have a little bit of that added organizational piece that has to be taken care of."

Not all students in Pretty Prairie will be masked.

"Our board, in our reopening plan, we do not have masks at our Pre-K through 4 level," Hendrickson said.

Pretty Prairie's enrollment has gone up 40 kids over the last three years and may eclipse 300 this year before all is said and done.

"We serve as a bedroom community to Wichita and to Hutch," Hendrickson said. "I think that affordable housing and low gas prices makes it affordable for families to live here and work somewhere else."

Hendrickson said his staff misses their kids and they are looking forward to having them back in the building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598374070179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan.
— 
Pretty Prairie Superintendent Randy Hendrickson is excited for school to start in person this week."For every school district, this is an incredibly exciting and stressful time with the five and a half months of not having students," Hendrickson said. "We're also unique in that, as a small, rural school, that we are increasing in enrollment and we have new staff members and so we have a little bit of that added organizational piece that has to be taken care of."Not all students in Pretty Prairie will be masked."Our board, in our reopening plan, we do not have masks at our Pre-K through 4 level," Hendrickson said.Pretty Prairie's enrollment has gone up 40 kids over the last three years and may eclipse 300 this year before all is said and done."We serve as a bedroom community to Wichita and to Hutch," Hendrickson said. "I think that affordable housing and low gas prices makes it affordable for families to live here and work somewhere else."Hendrickson said his staff misses their kids and they are looking forward to having them back in the building.

Pretty Prairie district growing, excited to get started

McPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson County Sheriff's Department has released the names of the two victims of Monday’s fatality accident northwest of McPherson.

The department says 24-year-old Ryder Martin of McPherson was driving north on 9th Avenue just after midnight Monday when he lost control of the vehicle which entered the ditch and rolled at the intersection with Pioneer Road.

Martin and one passenger, 25-year-old Austin Bickford of McPherson were ejected from the vehicle. Both died in the crash. A second passenger, 25-year-old Bryson Hall of Salina was taken to the hospital where he was treated and released. Law enforcement say he was wearing his seatbelt.

Speed is believed to have been a factor in the crash which is still under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559744286393.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>McPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson County Sheriff's Department has released the names of the two victims of Monday’s fatality accident northwest of McPherson.The department says 24-year-old Ryder Martin of McPherson was driving north on 9th Avenue just after midnight Monday when he lost control of the vehicle which entered the ditch and rolled at the intersection with Pioneer Road.Martin and one passenger, 25-year-old Austin Bickford of McPherson were ejected from the vehicle. Both died in the crash. A second passenger, 25-year-old Bryson Hall of Salina was taken to the hospital where he was treated and released. Law enforcement say he was wearing his seatbelt.Speed is believed to have been a factor in the crash which is still under investigation.

McPherson Co. SO releases names of Monday's fatality accident

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council came to a consensus on how a portion of the funds generated by the 1% sales tax should be spent during a special workshop on Monday.&nbsp;

“One of the projects we’re going to go forward with is getting some of our sewer lines repaired,” City Clerk April Beshears said. “We’re going to spend money on a four block section that didn’t get completed with the last sewer updates.”

The sewer line work will run along West Avenue D from Kent to Pierce Streets and along West Avenue E from Pierce to Speare. Beshears says an invitation for bids on the two projects will go out this week. Another portion of the funding will go to the city park.

“We’re also looking to add some equipment to the park as part of the first phase of spending this money,” Beshears said..

The City Council hopes to have some idea on playground equipment they want to purchase during their September 25th meeting. The city hopes to secure volunteer help to assemble the new equipment in order to save money.&nbsp;

The sales tax runs through 2022 and generates about $65,000 per year. Beshears says they will continue to look over the balance of the sales tax line item to determine how the remaining funds should be spent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597851283659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council came to a consensus on how a portion of the funds generated by the 1% sales tax should be spent during a special workshop on Monday.&nbsp;“One of the projects we’re going to go forward with is getting some of our sewer lines repaired,” City Clerk April Beshears said. “We’re going to spend money on a four block section that didn’t get completed with the last sewer updates.”The sewer line work will run along West Avenue D from Kent to Pierce Streets and along West Avenue E from Pierce to Speare. Beshears says an invitation for bids on the two projects will go out this week. Another portion of the funding will go to the city park.“We’re also looking to add some equipment to the park as part of the first phase of spending this money,” Beshears said..The City Council hopes to have some idea on playground equipment they want to purchase during their September 25th meeting. The city hopes to secure volunteer help to assemble the new equipment in order to save money.&nbsp;The sales tax runs through 2022 and generates about $65,000 per year. Beshears says they will continue to look over the balance of the sales tax line item to determine how the remaining funds should be spent.

Nickerson to use funds for sewer line repairs, new park equipment

By Dale Younker, Soil Health Specialist, Natural Resources Conservation Service

Soil organic matter (SOM) is an indicator of how healthy and productive a soil is and serves many important functions. The higher the SOM the better the soil is. It is the part of the soil that is composed of anything that once lived. It includes plant and animal remains in various states of decomposition, cells and tissues of soil organisms, and substances from plant roots and soil microbes.

After this material is well decomposed through time, about 10% of it forms into stable SOM, or humus. This is the porous, spongy material of the soil that has a pleasant, earthy smell that is dark in color. SOM forms slower in warmer and drier climates where the amount of plant biomass that can be grown is limited.

Soil organic matter is a reservoir of nutrients that are mineralized by microorganisms and released in the soil that plants can use. For each percent of SOM in the soil about 25 pounds of nitrogen, 5 pounds of P2O5, and 3 pounds of sulfur become plant available annually. In high SOM soils this can lead to significant fertilizer savings. The warmer the soil temperature the more nutrients are released, so summer crops benefit more from SOM mineralization than winter crops.

SOM behaves like a sponge and increases the water holding capacity of the soil. It can absorb and hold up to 90 percent of its weight in water. This is especially important in drier climates where soil moisture is almost always the most limiting factor when it comes to crop yields.

High SOM soils have a higher percentage of stable soil aggregates which don’t break down, consolidate or condense when it rains. This improved soil structure increases the pore space in the soil which helps the soil take in more water. It also decreases runoff and erosion. It is not easy, and it takes years to see a significant improvement, but there are ways that we can increase SOM levels in the soil. Here are just a few.

Reduce tillage. Tillage aerates the soil and causes a flush of soil microbial activity that speeds up the decomposition of organic matter. Tillage also increases erosion so when soil leaves the field organic matter goes with it, since most of the SOM is near the surface of the soil. 

Before our prairie soils were broken out, they naturally had about 3 to 4% SOM. The use of intensive tillage over several decades has reduced soil SOM levels by about half of what they originally were. By decreasing the amount of tillage, we can stabilize, and through time, increase SOM levels.

Soil test on a regular basis and fertilize accordingly. Proper fertilization, based on a soil analysis and realistic yield goals, encourages plant growth and more root development. This can help build or maintain SOM levels, even when top growth is removed for forage. Intensify the crop rotation with additional cash or cover crops. Without a green growing plant that provides plant residue and roots that feed the soil biology, there is nothing there to build organic matter.

It makes economic sense to do what you can to maintain and improve organic matter levels in your soils. The higher the organic matter, the less fertilizer you will need, because more plant nutrients are released in the soil. High organic matter soils can help keep a crop growing and healthier longer during prolonged dry periods because of the higher water holding capacity. In some years, this can be the difference between growing a profitable crop and not growing one, so it can affect the bottom line.

Consider using these practices on your operation to build and maintain organic matter levels in your soil. For more information about this or other soil health practices you can contact me at <a href="http://dale.younker@ks.usda.gov">dale.younker@ks.usda.gov</a> or any local NRCS office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593956642758.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dale Younker, Soil Health Specialist, Natural Resources Conservation ServiceSoil organic matter (SOM) is an indicator of how healthy and productive a soil is and serves many important functions. The higher the SOM the better the soil is. It is the part of the soil that is composed of anything that once lived. It includes plant and animal remains in various states of decomposition, cells and tissues of soil organisms, and substances from plant roots and soil microbes.After this material is well decomposed through time, about 10% of it forms into stable SOM, or humus. This is the porous, spongy material of the soil that has a pleasant, earthy smell that is dark in color. SOM forms slower in warmer and drier climates where the amount of plant biomass that can be grown is limited.Soil organic matter is a reservoir of nutrients that are mineralized by microorganisms and released in the soil that plants can use. For each percent of SOM in the soil about 25 pounds of nitrogen, 5 pounds of P2O5, and 3 pounds of sulfur become plant available annually. In high SOM soils this can lead to significant fertilizer savings. The warmer the soil temperature the more nutrients are released, so summer crops benefit more from SOM mineralization than winter crops.SOM behaves like a sponge and increases the water holding capacity of the soil. It can absorb and hold up to 90 percent of its weight in water. This is especially important in drier climates where soil moisture is almost always the most limiting factor when it comes to crop yields.High SOM soils have a higher percentage of stable soil aggregates which don’t break down, consolidate or condense when it rains. This improved soil structure increases the pore space in the soil which helps the soil take in more water. It also decreases runoff and erosion. It is not easy, and it takes years to see a significant improvement, but there are ways that we can increase SOM levels in the soil. Here are just a few.Reduce tillage. Tillage aerates the soil and causes a flush of soil microbial activity that speeds up the decomposition of organic matter. Tillage also increases erosion so when soil leaves the field organic matter goes with it, since most of the SOM is near the surface of the soil. Before our prairie soils were broken out, they naturally had about 3 to 4% SOM. The use of intensive tillage over several decades has reduced soil SOM levels by about half of what they originally were. By decreasing the amount of tillage, we can stabilize, and through time, increase SOM levels.Soil test on a regular basis and fertilize accordingly. Proper fertilization, based on a soil analysis and realistic yield goals, encourages plant growth and more root development. This can help build or maintain SOM levels, even when top growth is removed for forage. Intensify the crop rotation with additional cash or cover crops. Without a green growing plant that provides plant residue and roots that feed the soil biology, there is nothing there to build organic matter.It makes economic sense to do what you can to maintain and improve organic matter levels in your soils. The higher the organic matter, the less fertilizer you will need, because more plant nutrients are released in the soil. High organic matter soils can help keep a crop growing and healthier longer during prolonged dry periods because of the higher water holding capacity. In some years, this can be the difference between growing a profitable crop and not growing one, so it can affect the bottom line.Consider using these practices on your operation to build and maintain organic matter levels in your soil. For more information about this or other soil health practices you can contact me at <a href="http://dale.younker@ks.usda.gov">dale.younker@ks.usda.gov</a> or any local NRCS office.

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