
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Commissioners will introduce a Communications Specialist at their meeting on Tuesday.

Laurie Moody, who most recently was Assistant Director of Graduate Studies for the Barton School of Business at Wichita State University, will be introduced at the Tuesday meeting. 

Also on the agenda for Tuesday is a COVID-19 update from Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith and Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar.

There will also be a presentation from Matt Baki with Tria Health on the benefits of including telephone consultation with a pharmacist in helping control chronic conditions like diabetes. 

Reno County Human Resources coordinator Renee Harris will join him before the commission. There will also be two privileged legal matters discussed in separate executive sessions.

The Reno County commission will meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the Reno County courthouse.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Commissioners will introduce a Communications Specialist at their meeting on Tuesday.Laurie Moody, who most recently was Assistant Director of Graduate Studies for the Barton School of Business at Wichita State University, will be introduced at the Tuesday meeting. Also on the agenda for Tuesday is a COVID-19 update from Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith and Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar.There will also be a presentation from Matt Baki with Tria Health on the benefits of including telephone consultation with a pharmacist in helping control chronic conditions like diabetes. Reno County Human Resources coordinator Renee Harris will join him before the commission. There will also be two privileged legal matters discussed in separate executive sessions.The Reno County commission will meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the Reno County courthouse.

County commission to meet Tuesday

TREGO COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Sunday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Hyundai Elantra driven by Chad M.&nbsp;Uhrich, 27, WaKeeney, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of WaKeeney.

The Hyundai rear-ended a 2008&nbsp;Mercedes-Benz M35 SUV driven by Peyton K. Jensen, 29, Kansas City, Mo., that had slowed to due the dust storm.

EMS transported Uhrich, Jensen and a passenger in the Mercedes Miranda R. Goodwin, 26, Hutchinson, to Trego County-Lemke Memorial.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

The interstate was closed from WaKeeney to Russell for several hours due to the dust storm.&nbsp; The high winds and blowing dust was responsible for many other non-injury accidents that temporarily closed portions of K283, K96 and K4 Sunday evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602472350873.jpeg" alt="Sunday evening crash in the dust storm on Interstate 70 .&nbsp;Visibility was down to 20 to 30 feet in some areas, according to the KHP." />
 <figcaption>Sunday evening crash in the dust storm on Interstate 70 .&nbsp;Visibility was down to 20 to 30 feet in some areas, according to the KHP.</figcaption>
 </figure>TREGO COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Sunday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Hyundai Elantra driven by Chad M.&nbsp;Uhrich, 27, WaKeeney, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of WaKeeney.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602472558311.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hyundai rear-ended a 2008&nbsp;Mercedes-Benz M35 SUV driven by Peyton K. Jensen, 29, Kansas City, Mo., that had slowed to due the dust storm.EMS transported Uhrich, Jensen and a passenger in the Mercedes Miranda R. Goodwin, 26, Hutchinson, to Trego County-Lemke Memorial.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.The interstate was closed from WaKeeney to Russell for several hours due to the dust storm.&nbsp; The high winds and blowing dust was responsible for many other non-injury accidents that temporarily closed portions of K283, K96 and K4 Sunday evening.

Hutchinson woman hospitalized after crash in dust storm

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Heath Department will receive funding to help support prevention and surveillance to help combat opioid and drug overdose.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s (KDHE) Bureau of Health Promotion was awarded $3.1 million as part of its second year of the Overdose Data to Action Cooperative Agreement through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;

The Health Department will receive some of the funding to implement overdose prevention initiatives. No dollar amount was provided in a release from the KDHE.

This award will support prevention and surveillance efforts surrounding the opioid and drug use, misuse and overdose crisis in Kansas. The award will bring in $3.1 million per year through 2022.

In 2019, there were more than 393 drug-poisoning deaths in Kansas, and approximately 177 of those involved a prescription or an illicit opioid, and 153 involved psychostimulants, such as methamphetamine.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Heath Department will receive funding to help support prevention and surveillance to help combat opioid and drug overdose.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s (KDHE) Bureau of Health Promotion was awarded $3.1 million as part of its second year of the Overdose Data to Action Cooperative Agreement through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;The Health Department will receive some of the funding to implement overdose prevention initiatives. No dollar amount was provided in a release from the KDHE.This award will support prevention and surveillance efforts surrounding the opioid and drug use, misuse and overdose crisis in Kansas. The award will bring in $3.1 million per year through 2022.In 2019, there were more than 393 drug-poisoning deaths in Kansas, and approximately 177 of those involved a prescription or an illicit opioid, and 153 involved psychostimulants, such as methamphetamine.&nbsp;

Health Department to receive funding for drug abuse prevention initiative


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A political scientist with Emporia State University still believes there is a value in a Presidential debate, even as the October 15 debate has gone by the boards and we're down to just one more scheduled before the November election.

"There's no evidence that these debates influence the outcome of elections," said Michael Smith. "There's nothing. Even really memorable ones like Kennedy-Nixon in 1960. We just don't have the evidence that it swayed the election."

There is a question if civility can come back if the two candidates meet again.

"You know, a lot of people reported watching the first debate with their kids and the kids were horrified," Smith said. "The parents really struggled. How do I explain this to my kids? It would be neat for the next generations and for civic culture if we could role model a civil debate. It won't affect the outcome of our election, but it would be good for our civic culture."

The final debate is still on for now on October 22 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A political scientist with Emporia State University still believes there is a value in a Presidential debate, even as the October 15 debate has gone by the boards and we're down to just one more scheduled before the November election."There's no evidence that these debates influence the outcome of elections," said Michael Smith. "There's nothing. Even really memorable ones like Kennedy-Nixon in 1960. We just don't have the evidence that it swayed the election."There is a question if civility can come back if the two candidates meet again."You know, a lot of people reported watching the first debate with their kids and the kids were horrified," Smith said. "The parents really struggled. How do I explain this to my kids? It would be neat for the next generations and for civic culture if we could role model a civil debate. It won't affect the outcome of our election, but it would be good for our civic culture."The final debate is still on for now on October 22 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Smith: Another debate won't sway election, but would be nice

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Saturday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Toyota Camry driven by Scott M. Nienke, 37, Hutchinson, was eastbound on Kansas 14 five miles northeast of Hutchinson attempting to pass a vehicle without sufficient room to do so.

The Toyota collided with westbound 2014 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by&nbsp;Dinning, Faith A. Dinning, 26, Sharon Springs.

EMS transported Nienke to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.&nbsp;Dinning was not injured. Nienke was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Saturday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Toyota Camry driven by Scott M. Nienke, 37, Hutchinson, was eastbound on Kansas 14 five miles northeast of Hutchinson attempting to pass a vehicle without sufficient room to do so.The Toyota collided with westbound 2014 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by&nbsp;Dinning, Faith A. Dinning, 26, Sharon Springs.EMS transported Nienke to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.&nbsp;Dinning was not injured. Nienke was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Hutchinson man hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Thanks to some help from a Florida company, the Cosmosphere is embarking on a new program that will bring some of its most treasured artifacts into the interactive world.

Starting Tuesday, the Cosmosphere will begin creating high-resolution, full-color, digitally interactive 3D models of the space museum’s collection starting with one of the most iconic crafts in American history — the Mercury spacecraft: Liberty Bell 7. The craft will be uncased by museum staff and then 3D laser-scanned by a company from Florida called Creaform. Creaform is donating its services to the non-profit museum for this project.&nbsp;

“Our goal is to create a digital library of artifacts in our collection,” Nathan Meyer, Cosmosphere VP of Education and Strategy, said. “The pandemic really amplified the need for accessible, quality educational resources and we want to help provide those to the public at large.”&nbsp;

Cosmosphere staff will take full-color, high-resolution photos of the craft once the case has been removed. By layering those photos with the detailed 3D laser-scan of the spacecraft, a fully digital and interactive 3D model will be created. That digital model can then be used for 3D printing, in virtual reality software and placed alongside corresponding educational resources online.&nbsp;

“With over 10,000 pieces in our collection, this isn’t going to be an overnight project,” Meyer said. “But we wanted to start with a major piece of space history and the Liberty Bell 7 gets a lot of attention, both locally and internationally — as it spent the previous six years on a world tour, so we thought it was the perfect piece to start with.”&nbsp;

While similar work has already begun on smaller artifacts housed in the museum’s collection, the Liberty Bell 7 3D model will be the premiere example of the new digital offerings available via a virtual museum platform, which the Cosmosphere team plans to launch in 2021.

A sneak peek of the Liberty Bell 7 project, including a time-lapse video of the 3D scanning, will be available to view on the Cosmosphere’s social media sites next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592336526321.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Thanks to some help from a Florida company, the Cosmosphere is embarking on a new program that will bring some of its most treasured artifacts into the interactive world.Starting Tuesday, the Cosmosphere will begin creating high-resolution, full-color, digitally interactive 3D models of the space museum’s collection starting with one of the most iconic crafts in American history — the Mercury spacecraft: Liberty Bell 7. The craft will be uncased by museum staff and then 3D laser-scanned by a company from Florida called Creaform. Creaform is donating its services to the non-profit museum for this project.&nbsp;“Our goal is to create a digital library of artifacts in our collection,” Nathan Meyer, Cosmosphere VP of Education and Strategy, said. “The pandemic really amplified the need for accessible, quality educational resources and we want to help provide those to the public at large.”&nbsp;Cosmosphere staff will take full-color, high-resolution photos of the craft once the case has been removed. By layering those photos with the detailed 3D laser-scan of the spacecraft, a fully digital and interactive 3D model will be created. That digital model can then be used for 3D printing, in virtual reality software and placed alongside corresponding educational resources online.&nbsp;“With over 10,000 pieces in our collection, this isn’t going to be an overnight project,” Meyer said. “But we wanted to start with a major piece of space history and the Liberty Bell 7 gets a lot of attention, both locally and internationally — as it spent the previous six years on a world tour, so we thought it was the perfect piece to start with.”&nbsp;While similar work has already begun on smaller artifacts housed in the museum’s collection, the Liberty Bell 7 3D model will be the premiere example of the new digital offerings available via a virtual museum platform, which the Cosmosphere team plans to launch in 2021.A sneak peek of the Liberty Bell 7 project, including a time-lapse video of the 3D scanning, will be available to view on the Cosmosphere’s social media sites next week.&nbsp;

Cosmosphere to begin new 3D interactive program

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The City of Hutchinson had a major power outage Saturday afternoon. Power went out to nearly 4,500 Evergy customer around 1:30 p.m.

Three areas were without power for about two hours. One area was from Severance to Vanburen and from 4th Avenue&nbsp; to 17th. A second involved and area from Vanburen to Wilshire and from Avenue A north to W 11th Avenue and the third area was from near Hendricks east to Plum and from 4th Avenue north to 23rd Avenue.

Evergy says power was restored&nbsp; by around 3:30 p.m. Police and highway patrol manned intersections as many traffic signals were out.&nbsp;

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The City of Hutchinson had a major power outage Saturday afternoon. Power went out to nearly 4,500 Evergy customer around 1:30 p.m.Three areas were without power for about two hours. One area was from Severance to Vanburen and from 4th Avenue&nbsp; to 17th. A second involved and area from Vanburen to Wilshire and from Avenue A north to W 11th Avenue and the third area was from near Hendricks east to Plum and from 4th Avenue north to 23rd Avenue.Evergy says power was restored&nbsp; by around 3:30 p.m. Police and highway patrol manned intersections as many traffic signals were out.&nbsp;

Power outage leaves 4,500 Evergy customers in the dark Saturday afternoon

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Formal charges have been brought against a Hutchinson man who was involved in a domestic disturbance Oct. 1.&nbsp;

Twenty-one-year-old Braxton Allen is charged with two counts of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of aggravated robbery, and two counts of aggravated battery. He’s being held on a bond of $350,000.&nbsp;

Police reported that 24-year-old Sierra Owens of Hutchinson and 22-year-old Ashlee Tingle of Lyons were beaten, restrained and had property damaged and taken from them by a known male identified as Allen.&nbsp;

Allen was picked up by authorities later that morning.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Formal charges have been brought against a Hutchinson man who was involved in a domestic disturbance Oct. 1.&nbsp;Twenty-one-year-old Braxton Allen is charged with two counts of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of aggravated robbery, and two counts of aggravated battery. He’s being held on a bond of $350,000.&nbsp;Police reported that 24-year-old Sierra Owens of Hutchinson and 22-year-old Ashlee Tingle of Lyons were beaten, restrained and had property damaged and taken from them by a known male identified as Allen.&nbsp;Allen was picked up by authorities later that morning.

Formal charges filed in kidnapping case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Food Bank is honored to announce receipt of a grant from the Fund for Hutchinson Wellness Grants Fund of the Hutchinson Community Foundation.

The Food 4 Kids program provides kid-friendly, nutritious weekend food packets for children who experience chronic hunger. The program provides food packets for nine elementary schools in Hutchinson and seven additional schools throughout Reno County. The packets are discreetly distributed to the children in need every Friday. By eliminating hunger over the weekend, the children come to school Monday morning ready to learn. The packets are available at no charge to the families or the school district.

Because of the pandemic, organizers are able to adapt packet distributions. Whether children are in the classroom, learning remotely at home or a hybrid of the two, they will receive food packets regardless of where they are learning.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines food insecurity as households that are uncertain of having, or unable to acquire, enough food to meet basic needs of all their members because of insufficient money or other resources. When the parent or guardian of a child has to choose between food and other necessities, e.g., having electricity shut off because they don’t have enough money, it is an indicator of food insecurity.

Weekend food insecurity is the reason for the Food 4 Kids program. Any child who exhibits these behaviors is considered a candidate for receiving a Food 4 Kids packet.

The Kansas Food Bank is grateful for the partnership with the Hutchinson Community Foundation to feed children in need.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Food Bank is honored to announce receipt of a grant from the Fund for Hutchinson Wellness Grants Fund of the Hutchinson Community Foundation.The Food 4 Kids program provides kid-friendly, nutritious weekend food packets for children who experience chronic hunger. The program provides food packets for nine elementary schools in Hutchinson and seven additional schools throughout Reno County. The packets are discreetly distributed to the children in need every Friday. By eliminating hunger over the weekend, the children come to school Monday morning ready to learn. The packets are available at no charge to the families or the school district.Because of the pandemic, organizers are able to adapt packet distributions. Whether children are in the classroom, learning remotely at home or a hybrid of the two, they will receive food packets regardless of where they are learning.The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines food insecurity as households that are uncertain of having, or unable to acquire, enough food to meet basic needs of all their members because of insufficient money or other resources. When the parent or guardian of a child has to choose between food and other necessities, e.g., having electricity shut off because they don’t have enough money, it is an indicator of food insecurity.Weekend food insecurity is the reason for the Food 4 Kids program. Any child who exhibits these behaviors is considered a candidate for receiving a Food 4 Kids packet.The Kansas Food Bank is grateful for the partnership with the Hutchinson Community Foundation to feed children in need.

HCF provides grant for Food 4 Kids program


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Buhler USD 313 has modified its gating criteria in preparation for the potential that the county will end up in the red zone in the coming weeks.

"What does that look like, can you completely cohort a class?" asked Superintendent Cindy Couchman and her admin team. "Can you reduce it and get six feet distance? We feel like in grades 6 through 12, we've been successful with the six foot distancing and keeping them in class and we can only achieve that right now by doing the hybrid mode. Otherwise, we just have too many bodies in the building. Pre-K to 5, we feel like we can really concentrate on this cohort."

That means that elementary school students will likely do most everything with just their single class, not even with their whole grade.

"Make sure that they get their recess alone and then wait a few minutes and send the next class out, that way, those cohort groups aren't mixing," said Kyle McClure, Director of Innovation. "Lunch might be held in the classroom. Go grab your lunch and bring it back to the classroom. Maybe the specials teachers will come to the classes, so that they aren't sharing that air space in the gym or in the music class."

They are still working on the specifics of that, but they are also asking parents to consider where possible, transporting their own kids to school if we get into the red.

"If you are able to transport your child at this time, to try to go ahead and do that on your own," said Shane Hecox, Director of Finance. "That would allow our numbers on our buses to go down, to hopefully ensure that we can stay in school."

Much of the adjustment is designed to allow for less need to quarantine if a positive case is found and to limit the spread overall.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Buhler USD 313 has modified its gating criteria in preparation for the potential that the county will end up in the red zone in the coming weeks."What does that look like, can you completely cohort a class?" asked Superintendent Cindy Couchman and her admin team. "Can you reduce it and get six feet distance? We feel like in grades 6 through 12, we've been successful with the six foot distancing and keeping them in class and we can only achieve that right now by doing the hybrid mode. Otherwise, we just have too many bodies in the building. Pre-K to 5, we feel like we can really concentrate on this cohort."That means that elementary school students will likely do most everything with just their single class, not even with their whole grade."Make sure that they get their recess alone and then wait a few minutes and send the next class out, that way, those cohort groups aren't mixing," said Kyle McClure, Director of Innovation. "Lunch might be held in the classroom. Go grab your lunch and bring it back to the classroom. Maybe the specials teachers will come to the classes, so that they aren't sharing that air space in the gym or in the music class."They are still working on the specifics of that, but they are also asking parents to consider where possible, transporting their own kids to school if we get into the red."If you are able to transport your child at this time, to try to go ahead and do that on your own," said Shane Hecox, Director of Finance. "That would allow our numbers on our buses to go down, to hopefully ensure that we can stay in school."Much of the adjustment is designed to allow for less need to quarantine if a positive case is found and to limit the spread overall.

Buhler USD 313 preparing for red zone with gating adjustments


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The goal of keeping Reno County schools open is going to take a community effort.

"This isn't just a nursing home problem, it's a community problem," said Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "We have a 14.7% positive test rate. That's including all of the community testing that we've done with asymptomatic. If we didn't do that community testing, we would be at a much higher rate. We would be in the red already. We have bought time with the community testing. We still need to do that."

There is community testing Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic at the 2107 building.

"That is from 9:00 in the morning until 11:30," Hammersmith said. "That's for asymptomatic patients. That's just a drive up. We also have community testing going on. I know they have one in Turon. They took appointments for that."

The Turon testing is at the City Maintenance Building from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

"We have community spread," Hammersmith said. "This is a community problem. We need to do all the things that we have mentioned throughout this entire process. We have to social distance. We have to wear a mask. We have to wash hands, all the same things that we've been saying."

The public is being encouraged to get tested whether you have symptoms or not. You can schedule an appointment for one of the testing sites in the coming days. 

There will be community testing of both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals on Tuesday at Salt City Splash from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Thursday at the Hutchinson Sports Arena West Parking Lot from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

In order to have enough supplies, they need you to call ahead for an appointment to 844-834-3657.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The goal of keeping Reno County schools open is going to take a community effort."This isn't just a nursing home problem, it's a community problem," said Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "We have a 14.7% positive test rate. That's including all of the community testing that we've done with asymptomatic. If we didn't do that community testing, we would be at a much higher rate. We would be in the red already. We have bought time with the community testing. We still need to do that."There is community testing Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic at the 2107 building."That is from 9:00 in the morning until 11:30," Hammersmith said. "That's for asymptomatic patients. That's just a drive up. We also have community testing going on. I know they have one in Turon. They took appointments for that."The Turon testing is at the City Maintenance Building from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m."We have community spread," Hammersmith said. "This is a community problem. We need to do all the things that we have mentioned throughout this entire process. We have to social distance. We have to wear a mask. We have to wash hands, all the same things that we've been saying."The public is being encouraged to get tested whether you have symptoms or not. You can schedule an appointment for one of the testing sites in the coming days. There will be community testing of both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals on Tuesday at Salt City Splash from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Thursday at the Hutchinson Sports Arena West Parking Lot from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. In order to have enough supplies, they need you to call ahead for an appointment to 844-834-3657.

Interim health officer calls on county to keep up hygiene, get tested

Release from Reno County Health Department

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With an average of 15 new positive COVID-19 cases confirmed per day in the past week, 13 hospitalizations, and news of three deaths since yesterday, Reno County health officials are highly concerned about an accelerating level of COVID-19 in Reno County. 

The county is now solidly in the “Moderate Level” orange alert, defined as “many cases with community spread and undetected cases likely.”

As of noon on Friday, Oct. 9, Reno County had 245 active cases, of which 91 are associated with Hutchinson Correctional Facility, including both inmates and employees. There are seven additional active clusters.

Forty-three cases are associated with long-term care facilities, including both staff and residents. “It’s a misconception that cases are happening only among our elderly population in long-term care,” Hammersmith said.

The 14-day positive test rate excluding inmates is reported at 14.7 percent, keeping schools in the orange zone for at least another week. Data is trending toward moving to the red zone next week, which would involve fully remote learning for most students.

“The actions people take today have a direct impact two weeks from now,” said Karen Hammersmith, Reno County Health Officer and Health Department Interim Co-Director. “Our increasing number of positive cases is a problem in Reno County, and everyone needs to take personal responsibility to solve it.”

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center reports a record thirteen COVID-19 cases in their census, with 2 positive cases on ventilators. “This week we have seen the highest number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients since the pandemic began. It’s a serious community problem,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602284879877.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Reno County Health DepartmentHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With an average of 15 new positive COVID-19 cases confirmed per day in the past week, 13 hospitalizations, and news of three deaths since yesterday, Reno County health officials are highly concerned about an accelerating level of COVID-19 in Reno County. The county is now solidly in the “Moderate Level” orange alert, defined as “many cases with community spread and undetected cases likely.”As of noon on Friday, Oct. 9, Reno County had 245 active cases, of which 91 are associated with Hutchinson Correctional Facility, including both inmates and employees. There are seven additional active clusters.Forty-three cases are associated with long-term care facilities, including both staff and residents. “It’s a misconception that cases are happening only among our elderly population in long-term care,” Hammersmith said.The 14-day positive test rate excluding inmates is reported at 14.7 percent, keeping schools in the orange zone for at least another week. Data is trending toward moving to the red zone next week, which would involve fully remote learning for most students.“The actions people take today have a direct impact two weeks from now,” said Karen Hammersmith, Reno County Health Officer and Health Department Interim Co-Director. “Our increasing number of positive cases is a problem in Reno County, and everyone needs to take personal responsibility to solve it.”Hutchinson Regional Medical Center reports a record thirteen COVID-19 cases in their census, with 2 positive cases on ventilators. “This week we have seen the highest number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients since the pandemic began. It’s a serious community problem,” she said.

Reno County in the Orange: Health Department alarmed at case count increase

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. — The Reno County Health Department was notified by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that a seventh local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 has passed away.

Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.

As always be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department was notified by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that a seventh local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 has passed away.Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.As always be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

Seventh death in Reno Co. related to pandemic

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fire crews are working a major brush fire west of the city.&nbsp;

According to the Hutchinson Fire Department, the blaze is located near West 17th Avenue and Dean Road. The area is about five miles west of Hutchinson.

All brush trucks from Hutchinson have responded, as well as South Hutchinson and rural fire units.&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578518724823.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fire crews are working a major brush fire west of the city.&nbsp;According to the Hutchinson Fire Department, the blaze is located near West 17th Avenue and Dean Road. The area is about five miles west of Hutchinson.All brush trucks from Hutchinson have responded, as well as South Hutchinson and rural fire units.&nbsp;

Crews working brush fire just west of Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Ideatek was a recipient of four COVID-19 related Connectivity Emergency Response Grants awarded this week.

"All of these projects that we were awarded, the premise of it is that we know that people are suffering from having slow internet in these very rural areas," said Abby Stockebrand with Ideatek. 

IdeaTek announced on Thursday that the company will complete a $2.5 million infrastructure investment in Reno County and surrounding counties, including $2 million in CERG funding. There will be both wired and wireless components to the build out, simply because of time constraints.

"We couldn't do all of them at once," Stockebrand said. "We also had to provide these services to the most underserved premises provided by the Kansas Department of Commerce. We do have quite a few communities in Reno County specifically. Langdon, Arlington, Abbyville, Willowbrook and Pretty Prairie are going to be getting fiber to the premise throughout the town."

IdeaTek will begin infrastructure construction immediately, with service becoming available in early 2021. 

"We have about half of our premises are going to be served by fiber and about half of them are going to be wireless," Stockebrand said. "The infrastructure will need to be in place by the end of the year. It's going to be very, very quick, but we know that people need it pretty direly in these areas."

This is in addition to already planned expansion the company was doing in portions of Reno, Sedgwick and Harvey counties under a separate funding source. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584960838544.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Ideatek was a recipient of four COVID-19 related Connectivity Emergency Response Grants awarded this week."All of these projects that we were awarded, the premise of it is that we know that people are suffering from having slow internet in these very rural areas," said Abby Stockebrand with Ideatek. IdeaTek announced on Thursday that the company will complete a $2.5 million infrastructure investment in Reno County and surrounding counties, including $2 million in CERG funding. There will be both wired and wireless components to the build out, simply because of time constraints."We couldn't do all of them at once," Stockebrand said. "We also had to provide these services to the most underserved premises provided by the Kansas Department of Commerce. We do have quite a few communities in Reno County specifically. Langdon, Arlington, Abbyville, Willowbrook and Pretty Prairie are going to be getting fiber to the premise throughout the town."IdeaTek will begin infrastructure construction immediately, with service becoming available in early 2021. "We have about half of our premises are going to be served by fiber and about half of them are going to be wireless," Stockebrand said. "The infrastructure will need to be in place by the end of the year. It's going to be very, very quick, but we know that people need it pretty direly in these areas."This is in addition to already planned expansion the company was doing in portions of Reno, Sedgwick and Harvey counties under a separate funding source.

Ideatek expanding services with CERG grant money

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere Onward and Upward Telethon and Auction continues.&nbsp;

The first block of auction items went off the books Thursday night with a total of $25,157 raised. That goes along with the telethon which so far has raised $15,384 bringing the total of the first week to more than $40,000.

The Cosmosphere also announced that due to the bad weather south of here, some of the signed auction items for the second round of bidding are arriving late. For that reason, the second block of auction items will be on bid through October 16 at 7 p.m. A third block of items will then be up for bid with bidding running through October 23 at 7 p.m.

Items include trips, bottles of wine and lots of signed memorabilia. For more information or to make a donation go to <a href="https://cosmo.org/">cosmo.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601686256440.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere Onward and Upward Telethon and Auction continues.&nbsp;The first block of auction items went off the books Thursday night with a total of $25,157 raised. That goes along with the telethon which so far has raised $15,384 bringing the total of the first week to more than $40,000.The Cosmosphere also announced that due to the bad weather south of here, some of the signed auction items for the second round of bidding are arriving late. For that reason, the second block of auction items will be on bid through October 16 at 7 p.m. A third block of items will then be up for bid with bidding running through October 23 at 7 p.m.Items include trips, bottles of wine and lots of signed memorabilia. For more information or to make a donation go to <a href="https://cosmo.org/">cosmo.org</a>.

Onward and Upward event raises more than $40,000 in first week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Area credit unions will be providing public service to the area during International Credit Union Day.&nbsp;

Heartland Credit Union will be hosting shredding events at various locations October 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 23rd and Severance in Hutchinson, 37th and N. Maize in Wichita, and 2201 S. Kansas in Newton.&nbsp;

UV&amp;S (formerly Underground Vaults and Storage) is NAID Certified to securely destroy paper, non-paper media, and hard drives. UV&amp;S will be collecting the documents and shredding them off-site.

Area credit unions in Hutchinson will also host a Food Drive to benefit the Food Bank of Reno County. To donate, drop off canned and non-perishable food items at any participating credit union in Hutchinson from September 15 to October 15, or stop by Third Thursday on October 15 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in Downtown Hutchinson to "stuff the truck" with donations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602257448567.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Area credit unions will be providing public service to the area during International Credit Union Day.&nbsp;Heartland Credit Union will be hosting shredding events at various locations October 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 23rd and Severance in Hutchinson, 37th and N. Maize in Wichita, and 2201 S. Kansas in Newton.&nbsp;UV&amp;S (formerly Underground Vaults and Storage) is NAID Certified to securely destroy paper, non-paper media, and hard drives. UV&amp;S will be collecting the documents and shredding them off-site.Area credit unions in Hutchinson will also host a Food Drive to benefit the Food Bank of Reno County. To donate, drop off canned and non-perishable food items at any participating credit union in Hutchinson from September 15 to October 15, or stop by Third Thursday on October 15 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in Downtown Hutchinson to "stuff the truck" with donations.

Area credit unions to participate in International Credit Union Day


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
USD 309 is continuing in person learning for its elementary schools at this point.

"We are able to keep class sizes down to 15 per," said superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson about Nickerson Elementary. "They're going to stay in school at least through this remainder that we're in orange and then we'll have to take a look at what we might be able to do to reduce the class sizes and still keep the students in the school."

South Hutchinson Elementary is still working on strategies to get its class sizes down as they look at the numbers.

"The middle school is kind of an asynchronous model, I guess, the whole model is hybrid," Johnson said. "We have some students that are in the classroom every day and then other students that are Zooming in to that class from home, so we can get those class sizes down."

The high school is really having to adjust this year.

"We were normally on a block schedule," Johnson said. "Instead, we are taking those classes that would have been about 85 minutes a piece on a block schedule and we're running those 50 minutes a piece and we're running them straight through til noon remotely at home by students getting on through Zoom or Google Classroom. In the afternoon, we're running bus routes and they can come in in smaller cohorts to keep the numbers down and do electives. Woodshop, welding, weights, some of those activities that you can't do at home."

Johnson notes that each district takes its own approach to educating and so it requires a unique approach to adjusting when that schedule changes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
USD 309 is continuing in person learning for its elementary schools at this point."We are able to keep class sizes down to 15 per," said superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson about Nickerson Elementary. "They're going to stay in school at least through this remainder that we're in orange and then we'll have to take a look at what we might be able to do to reduce the class sizes and still keep the students in the school."South Hutchinson Elementary is still working on strategies to get its class sizes down as they look at the numbers."The middle school is kind of an asynchronous model, I guess, the whole model is hybrid," Johnson said. "We have some students that are in the classroom every day and then other students that are Zooming in to that class from home, so we can get those class sizes down."The high school is really having to adjust this year."We were normally on a block schedule," Johnson said. "Instead, we are taking those classes that would have been about 85 minutes a piece on a block schedule and we're running those 50 minutes a piece and we're running them straight through til noon remotely at home by students getting on through Zoom or Google Classroom. In the afternoon, we're running bus routes and they can come in in smaller cohorts to keep the numbers down and do electives. Woodshop, welding, weights, some of those activities that you can't do at home."Johnson notes that each district takes its own approach to educating and so it requires a unique approach to adjusting when that schedule changes.

In person thus far for 309 elementaries


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas House District 114 candidate Republican Mike Murphy isn't surprised to be asked about Medicaid expansion, but that's not what he's focused on.

"It's interesting that this comes up on radio interviews and on debates," Murphy said. "It never comes up out with people. I'm not in favor of it at all."

Murphy doesn't see how a billion dollar program that helps so few Kansans is cost-effective. Though proponents say 130,000 Kansans would use the coverage, Murphy says more than half of those could be covered now if they chose it.

"So, you're looking at spending about a billion dollars to help 55,000 people," Murphy said. "While that's admirable to help people, I think there are better, more efficient ways to do it."

Murphy is much more concerned about governnment gaining too much control over Kansans lives.

"Our Constitution was built on the idea that we help each other," Murphy said. "We don't wait for government to do it for us. We come in here, we figure out ways here in Reno County and in Kansas to figure out things and help people that need to be helped."

Murphy is running against Democrat Jeff Stroberg in November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602252591315.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas House District 114 candidate Republican Mike Murphy isn't surprised to be asked about Medicaid expansion, but that's not what he's focused on."It's interesting that this comes up on radio interviews and on debates," Murphy said. "It never comes up out with people. I'm not in favor of it at all."Murphy doesn't see how a billion dollar program that helps so few Kansans is cost-effective. Though proponents say 130,000 Kansans would use the coverage, Murphy says more than half of those could be covered now if they chose it."So, you're looking at spending about a billion dollars to help 55,000 people," Murphy said. "While that's admirable to help people, I think there are better, more efficient ways to do it."Murphy is much more concerned about governnment gaining too much control over Kansans lives."Our Constitution was built on the idea that we help each other," Murphy said. "We don't wait for government to do it for us. We come in here, we figure out ways here in Reno County and in Kansas to figure out things and help people that need to be helped."Murphy is running against Democrat Jeff Stroberg in November.

Murphy: Medicaid expansion not cost effective

HAVEN, Kan. — Ken Brown likes what he sees in Haven Steel. The Iowa native has been the owner of the company for the past 10 months after purchasing a majority share in the family-owned business that employs 80 people.&nbsp;

“My father-in-law has been working with Haven Steel from its inception in 1968 when he came in as a minority shareholder with Dick and Jack Parker, who started the business,” Brown said. “He approached me multiple times to buy the business, but he was really never ready and he really loves it and wants it to stay in the family. We went through the valuation process and we put together a package to be able to acquire the company.”

The long-time family business has been a cornerstone in the small Reno County community manufacturing rotary cutting blades and other spring steel products. Brown says being family owned has its benefits and challenges.

“It tugs more at your heart, there’s more of an emotional connection to a family business than just an asset you try to grow,” Brown said. “There's less of a financial component I would say versus just investing and buying stock.”

If you see machinery mowing ditches or farmers using tillage equipment, chances are most of the spring steel components came from Haven Steel. And it comes all American made.

“When you see someone mowing the interstate, chances are the blades that are on that mower came from out of Haven, Kansas,” Brown said. “Anything that is 5160 spring steel heat treated, we make those here. And also with 100% American steel, we don’t buy any foreign steel.”&nbsp;

Haven Steel has felt the pinch from the pandemic-driven market, but Brown says the Midwest has been better at shielding companies from as much harm as other areas of the country. He says it starts with good governing.

“You see a more conservative governance in general by the elected officials in the Midwest,” Brown said. “It seems like the midwestern states have seen a different resilience and it seems like if we do have a recession we are the last, but we're also the first to come out.”

Many companies in Kansas face challenges in finding enough of a workforce to keep up with business demand. In the past 10 months, the company has worked to improve its workforce in a job that is not easy work.

“Right now, we would hire about 15 if we could get our hands on them,” Brown said. “We’ve increased the signing bonus. So if someone signs on at Haven Steel, at 90 days, you get a $250 bonus. And at six months, they get another $250 bonus. Working here isn’t easy. It’s hot in the summer and, by the way, it’s hot in the winter. When that steel comes out of the oven and it's orange, it's not because it's painted.”

While the company certainly holds its own when it comes to the products it produces, Brown sees the need to keep Haven Steel moving forward, something he has been successful at with other companies.

“My theory is if you’re not growing, you’re dying," Brown stressed. "My other family business, when my brother and I took it over as an interim president, we grew that by 500%. We hope to do the same thing here.”

Brown says that includes pursuing international customers, more products to produce and providing assembly and machining services for customers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602171410860.jpeg" alt="Haven Steel owner Ken Brown (Right) and general Manager Tom O'Brien stand in front of one of their machines that produces rotary mowing blades. Brown has been majority owner of Haven Steel since January." />
 <figcaption>Haven Steel owner Ken Brown (Right) and general Manager Tom O'Brien stand in front of one of their machines that produces rotary mowing blades. Brown has been majority owner of Haven Steel since January.</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
ROD ZOOK
Hutch
PostHAVEN, Kan. — Ken Brown likes what he sees in Haven Steel. The Iowa native has been the owner of the company for the past 10 months after purchasing a majority share in the family-owned business that employs 80 people.&nbsp;“My father-in-law has been working with Haven Steel from its inception in 1968 when he came in as a minority shareholder with Dick and Jack Parker, who started the business,” Brown said. “He approached me multiple times to buy the business, but he was really never ready and he really loves it and wants it to stay in the family. We went through the valuation process and we put together a package to be able to acquire the company.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602171560756.jpeg" alt="Bearing hangers come out of the oven and are shaped by a press before moving to a cooling area. From there, they are heat treated again. The finished product is below." />
 <figcaption>Bearing hangers come out of the oven and are shaped by a press before moving to a cooling area. From there, they are heat treated again. The finished product is below.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602171658836.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The long-time family business has been a cornerstone in the small Reno County community manufacturing rotary cutting blades and other spring steel products. Brown says being family owned has its benefits and challenges.“It tugs more at your heart, there’s more of an emotional connection to a family business than just an asset you try to grow,” Brown said. “There's less of a financial component I would say versus just investing and buying stock.”If you see machinery mowing ditches or farmers using tillage equipment, chances are most of the spring steel components came from Haven Steel. And it comes all American made.“When you see someone mowing the interstate, chances are the blades that are on that mower came from out of Haven, Kansas,” Brown said. “Anything that is 5160 spring steel heat treated, we make those here. And also with 100% American steel, we don’t buy any foreign steel.”&nbsp;Haven Steel has felt the pinch from the pandemic-driven market, but Brown says the Midwest has been better at shielding companies from as much harm as other areas of the country. He says it starts with good governing.“You see a more conservative governance in general by the elected officials in the Midwest,” Brown said. “It seems like the midwestern states have seen a different resilience and it seems like if we do have a recession we are the last, but we're also the first to come out.”Many companies in Kansas face challenges in finding enough of a workforce to keep up with business demand. In the past 10 months, the company has worked to improve its workforce in a job that is not easy work.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602171935404.jpeg" alt="A furnace glows as steel makes its way down the line to be forged. The work environment is hot, even in the winter time." />
 <figcaption>A furnace glows as steel makes its way down the line to be forged. The work environment is hot, even in the winter time.</figcaption>
 </figure>“Right now, we would hire about 15 if we could get our hands on them,” Brown said. “We’ve increased the signing bonus. So if someone signs on at Haven Steel, at 90 days, you get a $250 bonus. And at six months, they get another $250 bonus. Working here isn’t easy. It’s hot in the summer and, by the way, it’s hot in the winter. When that steel comes out of the oven and it's orange, it's not because it's painted.”While the company certainly holds its own when it comes to the products it produces, Brown sees the need to keep Haven Steel moving forward, something he has been successful at with other companies.“My theory is if you’re not growing, you’re dying," Brown stressed. "My other family business, when my brother and I took it over as an interim president, we grew that by 500%. We hope to do the same thing here.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602171831796.jpeg" alt="Parts hang in&nbsp; an area of the plant that powder coats pieces before they are shipped. The company hopes to provide more services to its customers in the future, including assembly and machining." />
 <figcaption>Parts hang in&nbsp; an area of the plant that powder coats pieces before they are shipped. The company hopes to provide more services to its customers in the future, including assembly and machining.</figcaption>
 </figure>Brown says that includes pursuing international customers, more products to produce and providing assembly and machining services for customers.&nbsp;

Brown wants to keep Haven Steel moving forward

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson received $120,000 in COVID-19 relief funds for small businesses this summer.&nbsp;

While many have taken advantage of the funds, the city still has approximately $27,500 in grant funds remaining to assist small businesses that employ persons from low to medium income households and who meet some additional requirements.&nbsp;

Businesses that employ one to five people may receive a grant up to $5,000 and businesses that employ six to 50 people may receive a grant up to $10,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The deadline to apply is Oct. 9. For more information or to apply, visit <a href="https://hutchchamber.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6d4ffe867887a2ca721da636b&amp;id=9b3a143d2c&amp;e=4f30291159">hutchgov.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson received $120,000 in COVID-19 relief funds for small businesses this summer.&nbsp;While many have taken advantage of the funds, the city still has approximately $27,500 in grant funds remaining to assist small businesses that employ persons from low to medium income households and who meet some additional requirements.&nbsp;Businesses that employ one to five people may receive a grant up to $5,000 and businesses that employ six to 50 people may receive a grant up to $10,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;The deadline to apply is Oct. 9. For more information or to apply, visit <a href="https://hutchchamber.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6d4ffe867887a2ca721da636b&amp;id=9b3a143d2c&amp;e=4f30291159">hutchgov.com</a>.

City still has COVID relief funds available

HAVEN, Kan. — As the Haven USD 312 School Board looks at tweaking its pandemic gating criteria, the district announced Wednesday afternoon that two students at Yoder Charter School have tested positive for COVID-19. Per the district's established protocol, workers are thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting areas within the facility.&nbsp;

The district also says it is in contact with the Reno County Health Department and will take the steps necessary to protect the health of staff and students.&nbsp;

The district says it is closely monitoring this situation and will notify families if any additional actions need to be taken in the near future.

The board will be meet on Monday to discuss whether to change how the district reacts to the pandemic. Board members have expressed a desire to possibly take action on a building-by-building basis, thus possibly keeping some buildings open that are not affected by COVID-19 should an outbreak happen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583765969377.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — As the Haven USD 312 School Board looks at tweaking its pandemic gating criteria, the district announced Wednesday afternoon that two students at Yoder Charter School have tested positive for COVID-19. Per the district's established protocol, workers are thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting areas within the facility.&nbsp;The district also says it is in contact with the Reno County Health Department and will take the steps necessary to protect the health of staff and students.&nbsp;The district says it is closely monitoring this situation and will notify families if any additional actions need to be taken in the near future.The board will be meet on Monday to discuss whether to change how the district reacts to the pandemic. Board members have expressed a desire to possibly take action on a building-by-building basis, thus possibly keeping some buildings open that are not affected by COVID-19 should an outbreak happen.

Haven USD 312 reports 2 positive COVID cases

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department was notified by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that two local residents with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 have passed away.&nbsp;

Out of respect for the families, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information.&nbsp;

The health department asks that residents remain vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well.&nbsp;

It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600896779586.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department was notified by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that two local residents with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 have passed away.&nbsp;Out of respect for the families, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information.&nbsp;The health department asks that residents remain vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well.&nbsp;It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Reno County records 5th and 6th deaths from COVID-19

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Amtrak’s SW Chief will be running its daily schedule through the weekend before it is reduced to running three days per week starting Monday.

Amtrak announced it was going to the reduced schedule on the Chief and other long-distance trains because of the downturn in ridership connected to the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Under the new schedule, the Chief will depart Chicago on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. That means the train heading west will arrive in Hutchinson on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Going east, the train will leave Los Angeles on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. That would bring the eastbound train to Hutchinson on Thursday, Saturday and Monday.

The schedule will not change, meaning the eastbound train still arrives at 1:37 a.m. and the westbound arrives at 3:18 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602186705133.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Amtrak’s SW Chief will be running its daily schedule through the weekend before it is reduced to running three days per week starting Monday.Amtrak announced it was going to the reduced schedule on the Chief and other long-distance trains because of the downturn in ridership connected to the pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;Under the new schedule, the Chief will depart Chicago on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. That means the train heading west will arrive in Hutchinson on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Going east, the train will leave Los Angeles on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. That would bring the eastbound train to Hutchinson on Thursday, Saturday and Monday.The schedule will not change, meaning the eastbound train still arrives at 1:37 a.m. and the westbound arrives at 3:18 a.m.

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