HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson neighborhood led by United Way of Reno County, along with the Reno County Food Bank and Rcat, helped Fairfield USD 310 feed 55 families in rural Reno County.

Barbara Lilyhorn, director of Reno County Department of Aging &amp; Public Transportation, learned that the school district needed help getting food to the families of their students. The United Way of Reno County held a Neighborhood Food Drive and, thanks to their generosity, raised almost a van-load full of nonperishable food. The Reno County Food Bank arranged to also send a shipment of groceries and supplies, and Rcat transported all of this to the school near Langdon.

Betsy McKinney, superintendent at USD 310, along with teachers and volunteers at the school, made boxes of food for 55 families. These boxes were loaded into USD 310 vehicles and distributed along with the students’ breakfasts/lunches this week. The food went to families in need and is estimated to have reached 321 individuals. The food was distributed to Abbyville, Arlington, Langdon, Plevna, Sylvia and Turon.

Sixty-seven percent of students in USD 310 are on free or reduced lunches during the school year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588365391447.jpeg" alt="Teachers and volunteers in Fairfield USD 310 load up boxes of food for distribution to needy families. More than 320 individuals in six small Reno County communities benefited from a food drive spearheaded by a local neighborhood, Rcat, the United Way and the Reno County Food Bank." />
 <figcaption>Teachers and volunteers in Fairfield USD 310 load up boxes of food for distribution to needy families. More than 320 individuals in six small Reno County communities benefited from a food drive spearheaded by a local neighborhood, Rcat, the United Way and the Reno County Food Bank.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson neighborhood led by United Way of Reno County, along with the Reno County Food Bank and Rcat, helped Fairfield USD 310 feed 55 families in rural Reno County.Barbara Lilyhorn, director of Reno County Department of Aging &amp; Public Transportation, learned that the school district needed help getting food to the families of their students. The United Way of Reno County held a Neighborhood Food Drive and, thanks to their generosity, raised almost a van-load full of nonperishable food. The Reno County Food Bank arranged to also send a shipment of groceries and supplies, and Rcat transported all of this to the school near Langdon.Betsy McKinney, superintendent at USD 310, along with teachers and volunteers at the school, made boxes of food for 55 families. These boxes were loaded into USD 310 vehicles and distributed along with the students’ breakfasts/lunches this week. The food went to families in need and is estimated to have reached 321 individuals. The food was distributed to Abbyville, Arlington, Langdon, Plevna, Sylvia and Turon.Sixty-seven percent of students in USD 310 are on free or reduced lunches during the school year.

Area residents and agencies team up to help USD 310 families

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Repair work will be getting underway along a portion of 82nd Avenue that was damaged by last year’s flooding.

The continuous flooding during the summer caused large areas of land along 82nd near Wilson Road to wash away and damaged the roadbed.

Public Works will be before county commissioners on Tuesday asking them to approve a contract with Theis Dozer Service Inc. to make the repairs at a cost of $127,365.

Also Tuesday, the board will get the weekly update from Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar and Health Department Director Nick Baldetti on the pandemic, and seek approval of an engineering contract with Kirkham, Michael and Associates for work on annual federal aid funds for various road and bridge inventory work. The cost would be $32,226 if approved.

Tuesday’s Reno County Commission meeting begins at 9 a.m. and will be <a href="https://www.renogov.org/430/Agendas-Minutes-Meetings">streamed online</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588365988351.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Repair work will be getting underway along a portion of 82nd Avenue that was damaged by last year’s flooding.The continuous flooding during the summer caused large areas of land along 82nd near Wilson Road to wash away and damaged the roadbed.Public Works will be before county commissioners on Tuesday asking them to approve a contract with Theis Dozer Service Inc. to make the repairs at a cost of $127,365.Also Tuesday, the board will get the weekly update from Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar and Health Department Director Nick Baldetti on the pandemic, and seek approval of an engineering contract with Kirkham, Michael and Associates for work on annual federal aid funds for various road and bridge inventory work. The cost would be $32,226 if approved.Tuesday’s Reno County Commission meeting begins at 9 a.m. and will be <a href="https://www.renogov.org/430/Agendas-Minutes-Meetings">streamed online</a>.

Reno Co. Commission to take action on flood repairs

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of positive cases of COVID-19 increased to 38 in Reno County Friday afternoon as two more cases were added to the list.&nbsp;

The first positive case is a female in her 40s with a known source of exposure. The second positive case is a male under the age of 18 with a known source of exposure.

Both patients are in home isolation per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No further information is being released and a case contact investigation is underway.

Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquettes such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588297826823.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of positive cases of COVID-19 increased to 38 in Reno County Friday afternoon as two more cases were added to the list.&nbsp;The first positive case is a female in her 40s with a known source of exposure. The second positive case is a male under the age of 18 with a known source of exposure.Both patients are in home isolation per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. No further information is being released and a case contact investigation is underway.Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquettes such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

COVID-19 cases up to 38 in Reno Co.


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners has scheduled a special meeting Monday to deal with the phased reopening of the County. 

That is the sole agenda item for a Monday morning meeting at 10 a.m. 

They will hold the meeting in the Commission Chambers.   A live-broadcast or archived recording of the meetings may be viewed on the county's website.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners has scheduled a special meeting Monday to deal with the phased reopening of the County. That is the sole agenda item for a Monday morning meeting at 10 a.m. They will hold the meeting in the Commission Chambers. A live-broadcast or archived recording of the meetings may be viewed on the county's website.

Special County Commission meeting Monday on phased reopening


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department released what life will look like for you if you have been exposed to COVID-19 on Friday.

If communities are unable to effectively isolate COVID-19 patients and ensure contacts of the patient separate themselves from others, rapid community spread of COVID-19 is likely to increase. The following procedures are used by Reno County Health Department to try to contain the virus.

• Public health staff work with a patient to help them recall everyone they have had close contact with during the time they may have been infectious.

• Public health staff warn the exposed individuals (contacts) of their potential exposure as quickly as possible.

• To protect patient privacy and follow HIPAA regulations, contacts are only informed that they may have been exposed to a patient with the infection. They are not told the identity of the patient who may have exposed them.

• Contacts are provided with education, information, and support to understand their risk, what they should do to separate themselves from others, monitor themselves for illness, and the possibility that they could spread the infection to others even if they do not feel ill.

• Contacts are told to stay home and maintain social distance from others (at least 6 feet) until 14 days after their last exposure. They should monitor themselves by checking their temperature and watching for cough or shortness of breath. Public health staff checks with contacts to make sure they are self-monitoring and have not developed symptoms. Contacts who develop symptoms should promptly isolate themselves and notify public health staff.

Following this process is critical to help protect our community from further spread. Other recommendations to contain the spread of COVID-19 include the following:

• proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend

• limiting handshakes and physical contact

• Staying home if you are feeling ill and calling your primary care physician to discuss any symptoms

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588295748232.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department released what life will look like for you if you have been exposed to COVID-19 on Friday.If communities are unable to effectively isolate COVID-19 patients and ensure contacts of the patient separate themselves from others, rapid community spread of COVID-19 is likely to increase. The following procedures are used by Reno County Health Department to try to contain the virus.• Public health staff work with a patient to help them recall everyone they have had close contact with during the time they may have been infectious.• Public health staff warn the exposed individuals (contacts) of their potential exposure as quickly as possible.• To protect patient privacy and follow HIPAA regulations, contacts are only informed that they may have been exposed to a patient with the infection. They are not told the identity of the patient who may have exposed them.• Contacts are provided with education, information, and support to understand their risk, what they should do to separate themselves from others, monitor themselves for illness, and the possibility that they could spread the infection to others even if they do not feel ill.• Contacts are told to stay home and maintain social distance from others (at least 6 feet) until 14 days after their last exposure. They should monitor themselves by checking their temperature and watching for cough or shortness of breath. Public health staff checks with contacts to make sure they are self-monitoring and have not developed symptoms. Contacts who develop symptoms should promptly isolate themselves and notify public health staff.Following this process is critical to help protect our community from further spread. Other recommendations to contain the spread of COVID-19 include the following:• frequent hand washing• proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend• limiting handshakes and physical contact• wear a mask when in public• Staying home if you are feeling ill and calling your primary care physician to discuss any symptoms

What to expect if you have been exposed to COVID-19

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council has three major capital projects to consider during Tuesday's meeting. The first is a request for engineering services for an expansion project at the Hutchinson Zoo. The contract with Professional Engineering Services is $25,500. 

The Council will also seek approval of a contract with Wiens and Company for the renovation of the law enforcement center. The total cost of the project is $1,559,000. It would be the first major renovation of the building since it was built in the 1970s.

And finally, the Council will consider engineering services from Burns McDonnell for an ultraviolet system at the wastewater treatment plant. The total cost of the project is $2,109,185.

The Council will also go inter executive session to discuss potential agreements with the union supporting various city agencies. Tuesday’s meeting of the Hutchinson City Council begins at 9 a.m. and will be streamed live on the city YouTube channel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council has three major capital projects to consider during Tuesday's meeting. The first is a request for engineering services for an expansion project at the Hutchinson Zoo. The contract with Professional Engineering Services is $25,500. The Council will also seek approval of a contract with Wiens and Company for the renovation of the law enforcement center. The total cost of the project is $1,559,000. It would be the first major renovation of the building since it was built in the 1970s.And finally, the Council will consider engineering services from Burns McDonnell for an ultraviolet system at the wastewater treatment plant. The total cost of the project is $2,109,185.The Council will also go inter executive session to discuss potential agreements with the union supporting various city agencies. Tuesday’s meeting of the Hutchinson City Council begins at 9 a.m. and will be streamed live on the city YouTube channel.

Engineering services for zoo project part of Tuesday's Council meeting


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti wants to be sure that we're looking at numerical trends and not just raw numbers when discussing how to go forward with COVID-19 policy.

"One of the things that I've been particularly vocal about over the last few weeks is not getting hung up specifically on the number of cases versus a number of different other points that feed into that in association," Baldetti said. "Yes, we want to continue to see how many cases we have overall, but then we also want to continue to measure the net rate, if you will."

That would include things like how many have recovered and the percentage of tests that are coming back positive.

"It basically accounts for the fact that, if we're expanding our testing versus, say what we were doing a number of weeks ago, but that rate essentially stays relatively the same, within a percentage point or so, that would tell us a bit more about, in concert with the number we're having, about the spread locally."

It's important to note that any policy put out by local officials cannot be less restrictive than that put out by the Governor and more cases does not necessarily equal a faster spread but a greater positive case rate could, if it were to jump more than a percentage point or two.

"The underlying ratios in terms of what's our capacity to test and our activity, I think, is a better informative indicator or indicators than just saying, oh gosh, we've got 36 cases or whatever the case may be, right now," Baldetti said. 

It's also important to note that the tests being administered at the Kansas State Fairgrounds vet the appointments with presenting symptoms before scheduling them, so it has no relevance to whether or not there is the potential for asymptomatic spread in the county. 

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti wants to be sure that we're looking at numerical trends and not just raw numbers when discussing how to go forward with COVID-19 policy."One of the things that I've been particularly vocal about over the last few weeks is not getting hung up specifically on the number of cases versus a number of different other points that feed into that in association," Baldetti said. "Yes, we want to continue to see how many cases we have overall, but then we also want to continue to measure the net rate, if you will."That would include things like how many have recovered and the percentage of tests that are coming back positive."It basically accounts for the fact that, if we're expanding our testing versus, say what we were doing a number of weeks ago, but that rate essentially stays relatively the same, within a percentage point or so, that would tell us a bit more about, in concert with the number we're having, about the spread locally."It's important to note that any policy put out by local officials cannot be less restrictive than that put out by the Governor and more cases does not necessarily equal a faster spread but a greater positive case rate could, if it were to jump more than a percentage point or two."The underlying ratios in terms of what's our capacity to test and our activity, I think, is a better informative indicator or indicators than just saying, oh gosh, we've got 36 cases or whatever the case may be, right now," Baldetti said. It's also important to note that the tests being administered at the Kansas State Fairgrounds vet the appointments with presenting symptoms before scheduling them, so it has no relevance to whether or not there is the potential for asymptomatic spread in the county.

Baldetti: Trends still matter more than case count, especially as testing expands

Northeast Kansas legislator with graphic outlining Governor's plan


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System is pleased with the progress that has been made in COVID-19 response in Hutchinson.

"This has been a healthcare community effort," said CEO Ken Johnson. "We do think about the hospital and the emergency department and that being a place that people would congregate if they are ill or have symptoms, but this has been very much a process and a collaborative effort between our whole healthcare community. Hutchinson Clinic, Prairie Star and lots of physicians in infectious disease, pulmonology and internal medicine. A whole host of folks have been involved."

If you've been waiting for the pandemic to be over to go to the doctor, don't. You need to remain healthy, regardless.

"Folks were well-intentioned and they truly meant to do the right thing and help us conserve resources," said hospital Chief Operating Officer, Wes Hoyt. "The challenge is, there really is no good time to put off healthcare that needs to be done. Even though we were responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, we still have a great population of citizens and neighbors that needed healthcare and they unknowingly put off stuff that they should have been getting done."

It's time to look at setting appointments for preventative testing and regular doctor visits, because COVID-19 isn't going away.

"Before this happened, we already tested for four COVID type of infections," Hunt said. "This is a fifth. It will become part of our life. Once Nick [Baldetti and health department officials] say okay, we're at a good place, we'll address the next layer of peeling back some of the restrictions and opening up more services and things like that."

The hospital would not publicize how many people were furloughed or had their roles change as a result of less non COVID-19 related healthcare usage, but they made it clear that getting back to normal with those jobs will require getting back to more overall healthcare delivery.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574787528114.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System is pleased with the progress that has been made in COVID-19 response in Hutchinson."This has been a healthcare community effort," said CEO Ken Johnson. "We do think about the hospital and the emergency department and that being a place that people would congregate if they are ill or have symptoms, but this has been very much a process and a collaborative effort between our whole healthcare community. Hutchinson Clinic, Prairie Star and lots of physicians in infectious disease, pulmonology and internal medicine. A whole host of folks have been involved."If you've been waiting for the pandemic to be over to go to the doctor, don't. You need to remain healthy, regardless."Folks were well-intentioned and they truly meant to do the right thing and help us conserve resources," said hospital Chief Operating Officer, Wes Hoyt. "The challenge is, there really is no good time to put off healthcare that needs to be done. Even though we were responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, we still have a great population of citizens and neighbors that needed healthcare and they unknowingly put off stuff that they should have been getting done."It's time to look at setting appointments for preventative testing and regular doctor visits, because COVID-19 isn't going away."Before this happened, we already tested for four COVID type of infections," Hunt said. "This is a fifth. It will become part of our life. Once Nick [Baldetti and health department officials] say okay, we're at a good place, we'll address the next layer of peeling back some of the restrictions and opening up more services and things like that."The hospital would not publicize how many people were furloughed or had their roles change as a result of less non COVID-19 related healthcare usage, but they made it clear that getting back to normal with those jobs will require getting back to more overall healthcare delivery.

Community effort in healthcare needs to continue as folks go back to the doctor


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas Governor Laura Kelly laid out her framework for reopening the Kansas economy Thursday night.

"It's an effort to balance non-negotiable public health considerations with jaw-dropping, unsustainable economic realities," Kelly said. "It's an effort to balance state obligations to keep Kansas communities safe with the need for returning flexibility to local leaders. It's an attempt to balance the need for stability in the future with agility as we continue to adapt to a rapidly evolving, lethal threat.

Kelly is lifting a statewide stay-at-home order Monday. But her plan won’t allow bars, gyms, theaters, barbershops, hair and nail salons or state-owned casinos to reopen until at least May 18 and local officials will be allowed to impose stricter rules, with a gradual phase in based on conditions in the state's 105 counties.

"This is not a game," Kelly said. "This is deadly serious, with both lives and livelihoods hanging in the balance. The decisions we make in the coming weeks and months, including the order in which we make them, and the pace at which we implement them, will determine what Kansas looks like after this pandemic has run its course."

She also said Thursday that the earliest she could lift all state limits on mass gatherings and other restrictions is June 15. 

"The framework is not etched in stone," Kelly said. "Its fundamental purpose is to provide as much predictability as we can for both families and businesses, but Kansans must consider it a living document, subject to ongoing analysis and evaluation. We anticipate that we will, at some point, need to reconfigure our approach as lessons are learned, as new trends emerge in the data, and as unforeseen circumstances confront us on the ground." 

Reno County authorities are working quickly to finalize any additional restrictions that may apply here before their local plan goes into effect Monday.

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas Governor Laura Kelly laid out her framework for reopening the Kansas economy Thursday night."It's an effort to balance non-negotiable public health considerations with jaw-dropping, unsustainable economic realities," Kelly said. "It's an effort to balance state obligations to keep Kansas communities safe with the need for returning flexibility to local leaders. It's an attempt to balance the need for stability in the future with agility as we continue to adapt to a rapidly evolving, lethal threat.Kelly is lifting a statewide stay-at-home order Monday. But her plan won’t allow bars, gyms, theaters, barbershops, hair and nail salons or state-owned casinos to reopen until at least May 18 and local officials will be allowed to impose stricter rules, with a gradual phase in based on conditions in the state's 105 counties."This is not a game," Kelly said. "This is deadly serious, with both lives and livelihoods hanging in the balance. The decisions we make in the coming weeks and months, including the order in which we make them, and the pace at which we implement them, will determine what Kansas looks like after this pandemic has run its course."She also said Thursday that the earliest she could lift all state limits on mass gatherings and other restrictions is June 15. "The framework is not etched in stone," Kelly said. "Its fundamental purpose is to provide as much predictability as we can for both families and businesses, but Kansans must consider it a living document, subject to ongoing analysis and evaluation. We anticipate that we will, at some point, need to reconfigure our approach as lessons are learned, as new trends emerge in the data, and as unforeseen circumstances confront us on the ground." Reno County authorities are working quickly to finalize any additional restrictions that may apply here before their local plan goes into effect Monday.

Kelly calls state framework living document as preparations continue for reopening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has announced the COVID-19 case count is up to 36.

The latest case is a male in his thirties. His exposure source is unknown. He is in home isolation per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We cannot currently release any further information as case contact investigation is underway.

Eight previously confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Reno County have completed recovery and are nonsymptomatic per disease investigation guidelines from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Our Health Department has a self-reporting form hosted on its COVID-19 Information Center (https://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19). We encourage residents to self-report their symptomology through the self-report form to better assist in tracking case contact and spread within the county.

This form is designed to both capture responses from those who have already been experiencing symptoms prior to today as well as those residents who begin to showcase symptoms in the coming weeks and months.

Remember the State of Kansas is under a Statewide Stay Home Order. This means all citizens are directed to stay in their homes unless performing an essential activity as described in Executive Order No. 20-16 signed by the Governor of Kansas.

We continue to highly encourage Reno County residents to be dependent on health authorities to provide the most accurate information on COVID-19.

Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585343971615.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has announced the COVID-19 case count is up to 36.The latest case is a male in his thirties. His exposure source is unknown. He is in home isolation per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We cannot currently release any further information as case contact investigation is underway.Eight previously confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Reno County have completed recovery and are nonsymptomatic per disease investigation guidelines from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.Our Health Department has a self-reporting form hosted on its COVID-19 Information Center (https://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19). We encourage residents to self-report their symptomology through the self-report form to better assist in tracking case contact and spread within the county.This form is designed to both capture responses from those who have already been experiencing symptoms prior to today as well as those residents who begin to showcase symptoms in the coming weeks and months.Remember the State of Kansas is under a Statewide Stay Home Order. This means all citizens are directed to stay in their homes unless performing an essential activity as described in Executive Order No. 20-16 signed by the Governor of Kansas.We continue to highly encourage Reno County residents to be dependent on health authorities to provide the most accurate information on COVID-19.Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

Case count in Reno County 36 with 8 recoveries as of Thursday afternoon

NEWTON, Kan. — Harvey County Chief Deputy Attorney Jason Lane filed charges Thursday against two Hesston residents for alleged threats at a Walmart store in Newton on April 6.

Twenty-nine-year-old Hazel Hamrick and 47-year-old Ernest Williams are accused of stating and portraying that Williams was infected with COVID-19 to customers and employees inside the Walmart business in an attempt to cause fear.

Hamrick faces two felony counts of criminal threat. Each count carries a penalty range of 5-to-17 months in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.

Williams faces two felony counts of aiding and abetting criminal threat. Each count carries a penalty range of 5-to-17 months in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.

Both individuals also face one misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct. The maximum penalty of that count is one month in county jail and a fine of up to $500.

Both individuals have posted bond, which was set by the District Court at $5,000 each.

Hamrick’s and Williams’ first appearances are scheduled for June 2 at 3 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588281590026.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — Harvey County Chief Deputy Attorney Jason Lane filed charges Thursday against two Hesston residents for alleged threats at a Walmart store in Newton on April 6.Twenty-nine-year-old Hazel Hamrick and 47-year-old Ernest Williams are accused of stating and portraying that Williams was infected with COVID-19 to customers and employees inside the Walmart business in an attempt to cause fear.Hamrick faces two felony counts of criminal threat. Each count carries a penalty range of 5-to-17 months in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.Williams faces two felony counts of aiding and abetting criminal threat. Each count carries a penalty range of 5-to-17 months in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.Both individuals also face one misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct. The maximum penalty of that count is one month in county jail and a fine of up to $500.Both individuals have posted bond, which was set by the District Court at $5,000 each.Hamrick’s and Williams’ first appearances are scheduled for June 2 at 3 p.m.

Hesston couple charged in Walmart incident

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 announced that, starting this Friday, it will expand the lunch program to weekends. 

On Friday, the lunch pickup sites will provide lunch for Friday and Saturday, and breakfast for Saturday and Monday.

Again, the pickup sites are at HMS-7, HMS-8 and McCandless Elementary School. 

Pickup times are 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579011979634.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 announced that, starting this Friday, it will expand the lunch program to weekends. On Friday, the lunch pickup sites will provide lunch for Friday and Saturday, and breakfast for Saturday and Monday.Again, the pickup sites are at HMS-7, HMS-8 and McCandless Elementary School. Pickup times are 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

USD 308 extends lunch program into weekends

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Archer Daniels Midland got the year off to a good start with a strong first quarter earnings report released Wednesday. 

The oilseed company with five elevators in Hutchinson reported adjusted earnings per share of 64 cents compared with 46 cents for the same period a year ago.

Operating profit grew by more than $35 million to $643 million.&nbsp;

ADM spent most of 2019 in a series of cost-cutting moves and consolidation of business sectors to beef up the bottom line. The first quarter does not reflect possible challenges that lie ahead with the economic slowdown because of the current pandemic.

ADM employs about 55 workers in Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580159000381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Archer Daniels Midland got the year off to a good start with a strong first quarter earnings report released Wednesday. The oilseed company with five elevators in Hutchinson reported adjusted earnings per share of 64 cents compared with 46 cents for the same period a year ago.Operating profit grew by more than $35 million to $643 million.&nbsp;ADM spent most of 2019 in a series of cost-cutting moves and consolidation of business sectors to beef up the bottom line. The first quarter does not reflect possible challenges that lie ahead with the economic slowdown because of the current pandemic.ADM employs about 55 workers in Hutchinson.

ADM shows positive 1Q

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Third Thursday would normally be kicking into high gear this time of year. 

May was always the time to see the best talent the area has to offer. While you might not be able to take in this talent in person this May, Hutch Rec, Stage 9, Blue Barn Productions and the Hutchinson Art Center will hold "Hutch Has Talent."

From May 1-17, you can submit a one-minute video of your singing, dancing or any other talent you may have.

They ask you get out your phones and cameras, film your one minute of talent horizontally with a MOV or MP4 file and email it to <a href="mailto:lynsey@stage9.com">lynsey@stage9.com</a>.

Your Hutch Has Talent video will be shared during the May Third Thursday on May 21. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584563985382.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Third Thursday would normally be kicking into high gear this time of year. May was always the time to see the best talent the area has to offer. While you might not be able to take in this talent in person this May, Hutch Rec, Stage 9, Blue Barn Productions and the Hutchinson Art Center will hold "Hutch Has Talent."From May 1-17, you can submit a one-minute video of your singing, dancing or any other talent you may have.They ask you get out your phones and cameras, film your one minute of talent horizontally with a MOV or MP4 file and email it to <a href="mailto:lynsey@stage9.com">lynsey@stage9.com</a>.Your Hutch Has Talent video will be shared during the May Third Thursday on May 21.

Third Thursday looking for talent

NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its seventh positive case of coronavirus.

The confirmed case is a woman in her 20s. The individual is in home isolation. Testing was completed by a private lab. The Health Department will regularly monitor the individual, as well as follow up on all contacts.

As of yesterday, the KDHE had confirmed 3,738 cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. That number does not include this new Harvey County case. Of Harvey County’s seven cases, five individuals have recovered. Harvey County reported its first confirmed case March 26.

The KDHE has also classified two Harvey County cases as probable for COVID-19, including one death. The cases are probable because they met clinical criteria for symptoms with a presumptive-positive lab test for blood work, but were negative in testing for an active COVID-19 virus. The KDHE has not included probable cases in its confirmed statistics at this time.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly previously issued an extension to a stay home executive order through May 3 in response to COVID-19. Kansans must stay home except to go to work to perform an essential function; obtain food, medicine or household necessities; medical care; caring for children, family members or pets; or exercise that abides by social distancing and gathering guidelines.

The KDHE has a phone hotline available to answer questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 at 1-866-534-3463. Resources are also available at <a href="http://covid.ks.gov">covid.ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584475841056.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its seventh positive case of coronavirus.The confirmed case is a woman in her 20s. The individual is in home isolation. Testing was completed by a private lab. The Health Department will regularly monitor the individual, as well as follow up on all contacts.As of yesterday, the KDHE had confirmed 3,738 cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. That number does not include this new Harvey County case. Of Harvey County’s seven cases, five individuals have recovered. Harvey County reported its first confirmed case March 26.The KDHE has also classified two Harvey County cases as probable for COVID-19, including one death. The cases are probable because they met clinical criteria for symptoms with a presumptive-positive lab test for blood work, but were negative in testing for an active COVID-19 virus. The KDHE has not included probable cases in its confirmed statistics at this time.Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly previously issued an extension to a stay home executive order through May 3 in response to COVID-19. Kansans must stay home except to go to work to perform an essential function; obtain food, medicine or household necessities; medical care; caring for children, family members or pets; or exercise that abides by social distancing and gathering guidelines.The KDHE has a phone hotline available to answer questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 at 1-866-534-3463. Resources are also available at <a href="http://covid.ks.gov">covid.ks.gov</a>.

Harvey Co. COVID-19 cases up to 7

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —  Dr. Mark Steffen announced today that he has filed as a Republican candidate for the Kansas State Senate in District 34. He will run against incumbent Ed Berger in the August primary.

“For me it is the right time to serve. President Trump has inspired a lot of individuals, including myself, to quit complaining and get involved. We have seen how career politicians cannot provide the leadership our district and state deserves.  The chaos brought on by COVID-19 is going to require a particular skill set to get to the other side. My science and business background will be much needed in the Senate next session to ensure both public health safety and economic success,” Dr. Steffen said.

Steffen, who resides northeast of Hutchinson, is a board certified anesthesiologist who has practiced in the area since 1997.  Dr. Steffen bought his first farm in Rice County in 1983 and now actively farms and ranches 3,500 acres in Kingman, Reno and Rice counties.  Additionally, he owns and manages several oil and gas investment businesses including Steffen Resource Development, LLC, a KCC licensed oil and gas operating company.

Steffen’s life experiences bring a much-needed, real-world perspective to representing the 34th District of which healthcare, agriculture, energy and small business job creation are front and center.

The 34th District encompasses all of Reno County and the northern half of Kingman County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588271198673.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dr. Mark Steffen announced today that he has filed as a Republican candidate for the Kansas State Senate in District 34. He will run against incumbent Ed Berger in the August primary.“For me it is the right time to serve. President Trump has inspired a lot of individuals, including myself, to quit complaining and get involved. We have seen how career politicians cannot provide the leadership our district and state deserves. The chaos brought on by COVID-19 is going to require a particular skill set to get to the other side. My science and business background will be much needed in the Senate next session to ensure both public health safety and economic success,” Dr. Steffen said.Steffen, who resides northeast of Hutchinson, is a board certified anesthesiologist who has practiced in the area since 1997. Dr. Steffen bought his first farm in Rice County in 1983 and now actively farms and ranches 3,500 acres in Kingman, Reno and Rice counties. Additionally, he owns and manages several oil and gas investment businesses including Steffen Resource Development, LLC, a KCC licensed oil and gas operating company.Steffen’s life experiences bring a much-needed, real-world perspective to representing the 34th District of which healthcare, agriculture, energy and small business job creation are front and center.The 34th District encompasses all of Reno County and the northern half of Kingman County.

Steffen announces run for Kansas Senate

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Rally Reno campaign is getting a financial boost from an area utility. 

Kansas Gas Service announced today that it will present $5,000 to Rally Reno County, an effort established to provide assistance to area residents who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rally Reno County is a partnership with the Reno County United Way, Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber and Hutchinson Community Foundation. 

The Rally Reno campaign has netted more than $115,000 to help local agencies and those in need during the pandemic. More than $34,000 has already been awarded to 10 local agencies. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588271075778.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Rally Reno campaign is getting a financial boost from an area utility. Kansas Gas Service announced today that it will present $5,000 to Rally Reno County, an effort established to provide assistance to area residents who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.Rally Reno County is a partnership with the Reno County United Way, Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber and Hutchinson Community Foundation. The Rally Reno campaign has netted more than $115,000 to help local agencies and those in need during the pandemic. More than $34,000 has already been awarded to 10 local agencies.

Kansas Gas donates to Rally Reno campaign

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County sheriff’s deputies have taken a man into custody on suspicion of sexual exploitation of a child. 

Law enforcement conducted a search warrant at the residence of Patrick White. The warrant stems from the allegations from a separate law enforcement agency that was made aware of White’s ongoing suspicious activity. After a follow-up investigation, the decision was made to conduct a search of White’s residence. No details have been released as to what was found in the residence during the search, but White is being held on a bond of $50,000.

 The sheriff’s office will be referring the case to the Reno County District Attorney and requesting charges. The case is still under investigation. There is no further information being released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588270856882.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County sheriff’s deputies have taken a man into custody on suspicion of sexual exploitation of a child. Law enforcement conducted a search warrant at the residence of Patrick White. The warrant stems from the allegations from a separate law enforcement agency that was made aware of White’s ongoing suspicious activity. After a follow-up investigation, the decision was made to conduct a search of White’s residence. No details have been released as to what was found in the residence during the search, but White is being held on a bond of $50,000. The sheriff’s office will be referring the case to the Reno County District Attorney and requesting charges. The case is still under investigation. There is no further information being released.

Man arrested on possible exploitation charges

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The COVID-19 mobile test site opened up to a short, steady line of cars Thursday morning. The site was set up in the handicapped parking lot near Gate 5 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. 

The area was watched closely by the Kansas Highway Patrol and access was directed in and out of the parking lot by cones and signs. Those wanting a test showed up by appointment and were given a test kit. A person in full protective gear stood at a distance and provided instructions on how to self-administer the test, which involves taking a sample with a swab in your nasal cavity. 

The person taking the test packaged the test and documents in a bag. Once finished, they drove a short distance away from the site and dropped the test in a basket. A second person in full protective gear then walked from the other side of the mobile unit, took the sample bag and disinfected it before walking around to the test side of the camper and placing it in a cooler. The entire process took anywhere from five to 10 minutes.

The tests will be available Thursday through Saturday for the next three weeks. The appointments are available from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The tests are for anyone over the age of 18 who feel they may have symptoms of COVID-19 or anyone in the medical field, along with all first responders.

For more information or to make an appointment, go to <a href="http://doineedacovid19test.com">doineedacovid19test.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588270657627.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The COVID-19 mobile test site opened up to a short, steady line of cars Thursday morning. The site was set up in the handicapped parking lot near Gate 5 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. The area was watched closely by the Kansas Highway Patrol and access was directed in and out of the parking lot by cones and signs. Those wanting a test showed up by appointment and were given a test kit. A person in full protective gear stood at a distance and provided instructions on how to self-administer the test, which involves taking a sample with a swab in your nasal cavity. The person taking the test packaged the test and documents in a bag. Once finished, they drove a short distance away from the site and dropped the test in a basket. A second person in full protective gear then walked from the other side of the mobile unit, took the sample bag and disinfected it before walking around to the test side of the camper and placing it in a cooler. The entire process took anywhere from five to 10 minutes.The tests will be available Thursday through Saturday for the next three weeks. The appointments are available from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The tests are for anyone over the age of 18 who feel they may have symptoms of COVID-19 or anyone in the medical field, along with all first responders.For more information or to make an appointment, go to <a href="http://doineedacovid19test.com">doineedacovid19test.com</a>.

Mobile test site opens at fairgrounds


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;After spending the entire month of April calling for more testing and more data, Reno County's top health official still believes progress is being made, but slowly.

It feels like we're taking shots in the dark," said Nick Baldetti. "Maybe we've got a couple nightlights in the room now."

A mobile testing site started in Hutchinson on Thursday, but the results from that are still a little way out.

"We still need a lot of information to have the best informed decisions moving forward," Baldetti said. "In the absence of that, I do think that where we're at today is certainly better than where we were at April 1.

From an Emergency Management perspective, director Adam Weishaar believes this event is far from over.

This is completely different from any other disaster that we've ever worked or that I've ever worked," Weishaar said. "In a normal disaster, we have a clear cut beginning, middle and end and then you immediately go into recovery. This is very long and drawn out. It's a lot different than any other disaster. I know it's a public health emergency, but in my eyes, we're still looking at it as a disaster. We're still in response mode."

Weishaar expects to see a resurgence of the virus sometime in the fall and so it definitely isn't time to stand down by any means.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;After spending the entire month of April calling for more testing and more data, Reno County's top health official still believes progress is being made, but slowly.It feels like we're taking shots in the dark," said Nick Baldetti. "Maybe we've got a couple nightlights in the room now."A mobile testing site started in Hutchinson on Thursday, but the results from that are still a little way out."We still need a lot of information to have the best informed decisions moving forward," Baldetti said. "In the absence of that, I do think that where we're at today is certainly better than where we were at April 1.From an Emergency Management perspective, director Adam Weishaar believes this event is far from over.This is completely different from any other disaster that we've ever worked or that I've ever worked," Weishaar said. "In a normal disaster, we have a clear cut beginning, middle and end and then you immediately go into recovery. This is very long and drawn out. It's a lot different than any other disaster. I know it's a public health emergency, but in my eyes, we're still looking at it as a disaster. We're still in response mode."Weishaar expects to see a resurgence of the virus sometime in the fall and so it definitely isn't time to stand down by any means.

Despite a busy April, still much longer to go in COVID-19 response in Reno County


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Art Center is planning some fun with its fundraising as part of Match Day next week.

"We have a campaign going on," said Patrick Calvillo with the Art Center. "It's called Shave the Art Center. We're trying to raise funds and due to the COVID-19 and everybody not being able to go to the barber, go get haircuts, we thought it would make it fun. Our goal total is $12,000. If we raise that, we're going to shave our beards."

That's Calvillo, HHS Art Instructor Darren Morawitz and his father, Mayor Morawitz of Elmer, KS.

"I haven't not had facial hair in about six years," Calvillo said. Mayor Morawitz from Elmer, KS hasn't shaved his beard since 1981. It's been a long time for him. We're kind of excited about that. Hopefully, we reach the $12,000."

If the Art Center reaches $15,000, the trio will also shave their heads.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Art Center is planning some fun with its fundraising as part of Match Day next week."We have a campaign going on," said Patrick Calvillo with the Art Center. "It's called Shave the Art Center. We're trying to raise funds and due to the COVID-19 and everybody not being able to go to the barber, go get haircuts, we thought it would make it fun. Our goal total is $12,000. If we raise that, we're going to shave our beards."That's Calvillo, HHS Art Instructor Darren Morawitz and his father, Mayor Morawitz of Elmer, KS."I haven't not had facial hair in about six years," Calvillo said. Mayor Morawitz from Elmer, KS hasn't shaved his beard since 1981. It's been a long time for him. We're kind of excited about that. Hopefully, we reach the $12,000."If the Art Center reaches $15,000, the trio will also shave their heads.

Hutchinson Art Center trying to lock in donations with shaving


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Prices at the pump have been dropping steadily throughout the COVID-19 outbreak and that trend continues. Kansas average is at $1.48 a gallon as of Thursday morning.

"AAA is forecasting that the national average will continue to decrease into the next month, possibly dropping another 10 to 12 cents down to $1.65 average," said spokesman Shawn Steward. "We haven't seen those prices at that cheap of a level since January 2009."

Kansas is among the 10 least expensive states in the country as of Thursday morning.

"There's just a huge stockpile right now of gas in the system," Steward said. "With demand remaining low, that just hasn't put any pressure to drive gas prices upward."

The Reno County average as of Thursday morning is $1.51 a gallon.

"Some states could be seeing some minimal fluctuation at the pumps if demand jumps as businesses are given the green light to reopen," Steward said. "I know that here in Kansas, we're looking at a plan from the governor later this week and some people could be heading back to work next week."

Even if that's true, it will take several weeks to clear the excess supply and if people can't afford their usual summer vacations, demand could continue to lag for awhile.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Prices at the pump have been dropping steadily throughout the COVID-19 outbreak and that trend continues. Kansas average is at $1.48 a gallon as of Thursday morning."AAA is forecasting that the national average will continue to decrease into the next month, possibly dropping another 10 to 12 cents down to $1.65 average," said spokesman Shawn Steward. "We haven't seen those prices at that cheap of a level since January 2009."Kansas is among the 10 least expensive states in the country as of Thursday morning."There's just a huge stockpile right now of gas in the system," Steward said. "With demand remaining low, that just hasn't put any pressure to drive gas prices upward."The Reno County average as of Thursday morning is $1.51 a gallon."Some states could be seeing some minimal fluctuation at the pumps if demand jumps as businesses are given the green light to reopen," Steward said. "I know that here in Kansas, we're looking at a plan from the governor later this week and some people could be heading back to work next week."Even if that's true, it will take several weeks to clear the excess supply and if people can't afford their usual summer vacations, demand could continue to lag for awhile.

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