
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas State Senate District 34 Republican candidate Dr. Mark Steffen believes that the key to government accomplishing what it needs to is continuing to have a growing economy.

"It's very, very clear that the states that thrive economically are the ones with small government, low taxes and less bureaucracy," Steffen said. "In spite of Kansas being such a fine, Republican state, we fail to accomplish that."

Steffen is convinced that there is more that can be done to reduce the size of state government.

"The size of our government is huge, our taxes are inordinate, particularly per capita," Steffen said. "We need to work on cleaning up our mess, so to speak and getting down to an efficient machine. When you have a strong economy, it lifts everybody."

Steffen intends to hold to his convictions and expect that to carry the day.

"I make up my mind, I assimilate the data and I get it done," Steffen said. "I'm a private sector guy who has built businesses. I'm not about the process. I'm going to sit down, figure out what's going to be best and I'm going to know what to do quick. That's the way I've lived my life. That's what you've got to do in the operating rooms, it's what you've got to do on the farms. It's what you've got to do in the oil field."

Steffen is running against Democrat Shanna Henry in November for the seat formerly occupied by Ed Berger. Steffen won over Berger in the August primary.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas State Senate District 34 Republican candidate Dr. Mark Steffen believes that the key to government accomplishing what it needs to is continuing to have a growing economy."It's very, very clear that the states that thrive economically are the ones with small government, low taxes and less bureaucracy," Steffen said. "In spite of Kansas being such a fine, Republican state, we fail to accomplish that."Steffen is convinced that there is more that can be done to reduce the size of state government."The size of our government is huge, our taxes are inordinate, particularly per capita," Steffen said. "We need to work on cleaning up our mess, so to speak and getting down to an efficient machine. When you have a strong economy, it lifts everybody."Steffen intends to hold to his convictions and expect that to carry the day."I make up my mind, I assimilate the data and I get it done," Steffen said. "I'm a private sector guy who has built businesses. I'm not about the process. I'm going to sit down, figure out what's going to be best and I'm going to know what to do quick. That's the way I've lived my life. That's what you've got to do in the operating rooms, it's what you've got to do on the farms. It's what you've got to do in the oil field."Steffen is running against Democrat Shanna Henry in November for the seat formerly occupied by Ed Berger. Steffen won over Berger in the August primary.

Steffen: Government efficiency key to growing economy

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

If I were putting together a Sunday Drive Edition of a scavenger hunt, it would most certainly include the “CO-OP” emblem. You probably know what one I mean: an outline of a red circle and blue circle overlapping and the letters C-O-O-P stamped in the middle.

No matter where you go in the Midwest, you can likely spot this classic symbol. It’s in obvious places like on the side of a grain elevator, gas tank or a business sign. And in more subtle places like old feed buckets, oil drums, clocks and utensils in a grandmother’s kitchen, or on hats and jackets kept by old farmers.

The logo, which was almost universally used by agricultural cooperatives in the 1980s and earlier, has slowly faded from use as modern cooperatives have opted to use their own brands to build recognition and loyalty, which is a smart move from a business perspective.

The nostalgic side of me is a little sad to see the once unified look of cooperatives drift into obsolescence. It makes me think about all the people who are rapidly moving further away from the complex story of how American agriculture came to grow of the safest, most abundant food supply in the world.

Cooperatives played a vital role in that story, and since October is National Co-ops month, I want to share briefly about how co-ops helped build American agriculture into what it is today and how they continue to keep our rural communities strong.

Cooperatives have their roots in agriculture. A group of farmers in England who were getting a raw deal from their suppliers formed the first cooperative several centuries ago. They were paying too much for a terrible product. Eventually the farmers got so frustrated that they decided they could do much better themselves. They pooled their resources to create a business but ended up creating an new framework and guiding principles for cooperatives, which are business collectively owned and operated by their members, who then share in the benefits and profits of the organization.

A century ago, that same model started to make a lot of sense in small remote communities across the Midwest. As farmers began to grow excess grain, they needed somewhere to take it. A group of neighbors could form a cooperative, which allowed them to team up and build an elevator for storage and have an organization that could take care of selling and shipping grain to larger markets. Cooperatives helped farmers make a better living for themselves and their neighbors.

Through the decades, these small community cooperatives have grown and merged with other cooperatives to create more efficiency and adapted to provide new services for their members. However, the guiding principles of serving members and their communities have stayed the same.

The people who started those cooperatives probably were not that different from you and me. They were trying to build a business, make a living and support their families. What made them special was the willingness to do something risky. They joined their neighbors, taking a chance together in hopes it would fix their problems.

In the spirit of cooperatives and the pioneers who built them, I challenge you to look around at your community. What problems need solving? No one is going to solve them for you. You do not necessarily have to start a cooperative to fix every problem but working together with your neighbors and investing in your community are great places to start.

And if you do have a local co-op, remember support them is just like supporting your neighbors and community.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancherIf I were putting together a Sunday Drive Edition of a scavenger hunt, it would most certainly include the “CO-OP” emblem. You probably know what one I mean: an outline of a red circle and blue circle overlapping and the letters C-O-O-P stamped in the middle.No matter where you go in the Midwest, you can likely spot this classic symbol. It’s in obvious places like on the side of a grain elevator, gas tank or a business sign. And in more subtle places like old feed buckets, oil drums, clocks and utensils in a grandmother’s kitchen, or on hats and jackets kept by old farmers.The logo, which was almost universally used by agricultural cooperatives in the 1980s and earlier, has slowly faded from use as modern cooperatives have opted to use their own brands to build recognition and loyalty, which is a smart move from a business perspective.The nostalgic side of me is a little sad to see the once unified look of cooperatives drift into obsolescence. It makes me think about all the people who are rapidly moving further away from the complex story of how American agriculture came to grow of the safest, most abundant food supply in the world.Cooperatives played a vital role in that story, and since October is National Co-ops month, I want to share briefly about how co-ops helped build American agriculture into what it is today and how they continue to keep our rural communities strong.Cooperatives have their roots in agriculture. A group of farmers in England who were getting a raw deal from their suppliers formed the first cooperative several centuries ago. They were paying too much for a terrible product. Eventually the farmers got so frustrated that they decided they could do much better themselves. They pooled their resources to create a business but ended up creating an new framework and guiding principles for cooperatives, which are business collectively owned and operated by their members, who then share in the benefits and profits of the organization.A century ago, that same model started to make a lot of sense in small remote communities across the Midwest. As farmers began to grow excess grain, they needed somewhere to take it. A group of neighbors could form a cooperative, which allowed them to team up and build an elevator for storage and have an organization that could take care of selling and shipping grain to larger markets. Cooperatives helped farmers make a better living for themselves and their neighbors.Through the decades, these small community cooperatives have grown and merged with other cooperatives to create more efficiency and adapted to provide new services for their members. However, the guiding principles of serving members and their communities have stayed the same.The people who started those cooperatives probably were not that different from you and me. They were trying to build a business, make a living and support their families. What made them special was the willingness to do something risky. They joined their neighbors, taking a chance together in hopes it would fix their problems.In the spirit of cooperatives and the pioneers who built them, I challenge you to look around at your community. What problems need solving? No one is going to solve them for you. You do not necessarily have to start a cooperative to fix every problem but working together with your neighbors and investing in your community are great places to start.And if you do have a local co-op, remember support them is just like supporting your neighbors and community."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: The Benefits of Cooperation


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The active case count in Reno County is back up to 191 cases, with many of those connected to cluster activity.&nbsp;The case count is up 34 cases in just three days. It was at 157 on the 24th.

According to the latest numbers Sunday, Hutchinson Correctional Facility is back up to 86 active cases, with 10 active cases connected to a religious gathering, one remaining case from Hutchinson Community College and nine active cases connected to K-12 education in the county.

1,057 positive test results have come since the beginning of the pandemic, with 863 recovered. Three have died.

The positive test rate in the county is still an area of concern, with the overall positive test rate at 11.99%. When you take out the prison cases, the community positive test rate is at 7.91%.

8,816 people have been tested with 7,759 negatives. This is in spite of four weeks of community testing of asymptomatic individuals in an effort to get what was hoped to be a more accurate number regarding community spread. 14.03% of the population has been tested.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The active case count in Reno County is back up to 191 cases, with many of those connected to cluster activity.&nbsp;The case count is up 34 cases in just three days. It was at 157 on the 24th.According to the latest numbers Sunday, Hutchinson Correctional Facility is back up to 86 active cases, with 10 active cases connected to a religious gathering, one remaining case from Hutchinson Community College and nine active cases connected to K-12 education in the county.1,057 positive test results have come since the beginning of the pandemic, with 863 recovered. Three have died.The positive test rate in the county is still an area of concern, with the overall positive test rate at 11.99%. When you take out the prison cases, the community positive test rate is at 7.91%.8,816 people have been tested with 7,759 negatives. This is in spite of four weeks of community testing of asymptomatic individuals in an effort to get what was hoped to be a more accurate number regarding community spread. 14.03% of the population has been tested.

Active cases and positive test rate increase in Reno County

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

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 International Truck driven by James Dustin Gates, 37, Sedalia, Colorado, was northbound on K14 at 56th Avenue.

The driver swerved to avoid a deer.&nbsp; The truck left the roadway to the right and the driver overcorrected. The truck rotated counter-clockwise, rolled onto its side, entered the west ditch and rolled onto its top.

EMS transported Gates to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Saturday in Reno County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 International Truck driven by James Dustin Gates, 37, Sedalia, Colorado, was northbound on K14 at 56th Avenue.The driver swerved to avoid a deer.&nbsp; The truck left the roadway to the right and the driver overcorrected. The truck rotated counter-clockwise, rolled onto its side, entered the west ditch and rolled onto its top.EMS transported Gates to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Truck driver hospitalized after he swerves to miss deer

Topeka, Kan.— The NFIB Kansas Political Action Committee has endorsed Paul Waggoner for State Representative. The PAC is comprised exclusively of NFIB members.

“Our members support candidates who support small business, and Paul Waggoner clearly understands the challenges facing Kansas’s job creators,” NFIB State Director Dan Murray said. “We know Paul will continue to work to create and maintain an environment where small businesses can succeed and create jobs.”

The NFIB Kansas PAC’s endorsement is important to candidates running for the Legislature. Small-business owners and their employees vote in high numbers and are known for actively recruiting friends, family members and acquaintances to go to the polls. The PAC’s support is based on the candidates’ positions and records on small business issues.

NFIB is the nation’s leading small-business association. To learn more about NFIB in Kansas, visit NFIB.com/KS and follow @NFIB_KS on Twitter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600954143624.png" alt="NFIB" />
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 </figure>Release from NFIB KansasTopeka, Kan.— The NFIB Kansas Political Action Committee has endorsed Paul Waggoner for State Representative. The PAC is comprised exclusively of NFIB members.“Our members support candidates who support small business, and Paul Waggoner clearly understands the challenges facing Kansas’s job creators,” NFIB State Director Dan Murray said. “We know Paul will continue to work to create and maintain an environment where small businesses can succeed and create jobs.”The NFIB Kansas PAC’s endorsement is important to candidates running for the Legislature. Small-business owners and their employees vote in high numbers and are known for actively recruiting friends, family members and acquaintances to go to the polls. The PAC’s support is based on the candidates’ positions and records on small business issues.NFIB is the nation’s leading small-business association. To learn more about NFIB in Kansas, visit NFIB.com/KS and follow @NFIB_KS on Twitter.

NFIB Kansas Political Action Committee Endorses Paul Waggoner for District 104 State House


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;With roughly six months of numbers to go on, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center says for their population, the number of admitted patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis is dead even by gender.

"If you include Q1, the number was actually 70 and 70, equal," said Chuck Welch with the hospital.

The majority of patients were hospitalized because COVID-19 made something else they had worse, not because of COVID-19 itself.

"We saw 39 patients of the 140 that came in with a primary diagnosis of COVID," Welch said. "The rest of them, their principal diagnosis was something else and it also turned out that they had COVID."

The hospital did not release information on length of stay, because if someone had that information, they could likely figure out who an individual was that was admitted and there are legal ramifications if that were possible.

"The difficulty with identifying length of stay is that length of stay with this disease is so specific to the person," Welch said. "It depends on the comorbidities. It depends on the other things they had going on with them at the time."

The most patients have come in July, August and the first half of September. The average age of females admitted was 60 years old. Average age of males admitted was 57.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;With roughly six months of numbers to go on, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center says for their population, the number of admitted patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis is dead even by gender."If you include Q1, the number was actually 70 and 70, equal," said Chuck Welch with the hospital.The majority of patients were hospitalized because COVID-19 made something else they had worse, not because of COVID-19 itself."We saw 39 patients of the 140 that came in with a primary diagnosis of COVID," Welch said. "The rest of them, their principal diagnosis was something else and it also turned out that they had COVID."The hospital did not release information on length of stay, because if someone had that information, they could likely figure out who an individual was that was admitted and there are legal ramifications if that were possible."The difficulty with identifying length of stay is that length of stay with this disease is so specific to the person," Welch said. "It depends on the comorbidities. It depends on the other things they had going on with them at the time."The most patients have come in July, August and the first half of September. The average age of females admitted was 60 years old. Average age of males admitted was 57.

Admissions that include COVID-19 evenly split by gender at HRMC after six months

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will once again address the purchase of fire equipment for Rural Fire District #4 during Tuesday's meeting. Originally, the county approved the purchase of a truck, but the fire district was unable to find one to fit its needs.

Now, Chief Kent Branscom has two sister trucks that have been located in South Carolina for $95,000 each. Branscom says the benefit of having two similar trucks will be ease of training for the volunteers and standard operating procedures for the two pumpers.&nbsp;

Also Tuesday, the board will go over an agreement with SCS Engineers to do engineering work for the foundation and pad portion of the new landfill support facilities that will be built on the portion of Mohawk Road that will soon be vacated.&nbsp;

And the board will get the weekly update on the pandemic. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will once again address the purchase of fire equipment for Rural Fire District #4 during Tuesday's meeting. Originally, the county approved the purchase of a truck, but the fire district was unable to find one to fit its needs.Now, Chief Kent Branscom has two sister trucks that have been located in South Carolina for $95,000 each. Branscom says the benefit of having two similar trucks will be ease of training for the volunteers and standard operating procedures for the two pumpers.&nbsp;Also Tuesday, the board will go over an agreement with SCS Engineers to do engineering work for the foundation and pad portion of the new landfill support facilities that will be built on the portion of Mohawk Road that will soon be vacated.&nbsp;And the board will get the weekly update on the pandemic. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Commission to discuss fire trucks again Tuesday

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler City Council will meet to discuss the Wheatland Park complex during Tuesday's agenda session.&nbsp;

The baseball and softball facility along with the park is used by USD 313, Hutch Rec and the city for numerous events throughout the spring and summer. The council will discuss a new agreement between the entities. The matter is for discussion only.&nbsp;

The council will also get an update from the Buhler Economic Development Board and discuss how some COVID relief funds could be spent.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s meeting of the Buhler City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the city offices at 219 N. Main.

<figure>
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 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler City Council will meet to discuss the Wheatland Park complex during Tuesday's agenda session.&nbsp;The baseball and softball facility along with the park is used by USD 313, Hutch Rec and the city for numerous events throughout the spring and summer. The council will discuss a new agreement between the entities. The matter is for discussion only.&nbsp;The council will also get an update from the Buhler Economic Development Board and discuss how some COVID relief funds could be spent.&nbsp;Tuesday’s meeting of the Buhler City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the city offices at 219 N. Main.

Buhler City Council to discuss operations agreement for sports facility

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Public Library announced Friday that The Friends of the Hutchinson Public Library are back in the building,&nbsp;

The Library says the Friendshop Book Store is open and they are holding a sale throughout the month to get rid of a large backlog of books that accumulated after the store was closed due to the pandemic. The library says they can’t accept any more donations at this time because there’s no room&nbsp; to store them.

The library also says that the Children's Fall Virtual Programs start next Friday, October 2.

The library will post storytimes, puppet plays, shadow puppet plays, and more every Friday from October 2 until November 27. A list of the virtual programs will be available on the library website and Facebook page.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Public Library announced Friday that The Friends of the Hutchinson Public Library are back in the building,&nbsp;The Library says the Friendshop Book Store is open and they are holding a sale throughout the month to get rid of a large backlog of books that accumulated after the store was closed due to the pandemic. The library says they can’t accept any more donations at this time because there’s no room&nbsp; to store them.The library also says that the Children's Fall Virtual Programs start next Friday, October 2.The library will post storytimes, puppet plays, shadow puppet plays, and more every Friday from October 2 until November 27. A list of the virtual programs will be available on the library website and Facebook page.

Friends of the Library holding month-long book sale

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Director of Business and Industry at Hutchinson Community College will be one of the featured speakers at the Kansas Manufacturing Summit scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6, in Mulvane.&nbsp;

Dave Mullins is one of six speakers and panelists for the summit that will focus on key issues challenging today's manufacturers. The day-long forum provides the opportunity to network, learn about manufacturing resources and industry trends, and gain insight into workforce development.

The summit is part of the month-long celebration of National Manufacturing Month and is led by the Kansas Manufacturing Council, in partnership with Kansas Manufacturing Solutions, Pittsburg State University and the Kansas Chamber.

The winner of the <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001baP_nuYFwiK8amIyRKDjzACxAss27RdOh2glJR9Vs4wkCK23mQXZYkLWuEi7w8pcahPFcRMJT3EF36uMIht9g9AXX_lVV6py5uG3HeDxFqKX9txulLv_7eu4K5hyKSqBCIKc7paCApiGSIc1RgIdsgRFBfnZtyRO_U3cS9BtkT_4U0SuyMH6kw==&amp;c=cK-uqeFXFqcZBmp1LzpHAbB_BE7fQgFKQPky6Lf3ouVUz1xxIsNrig==&amp;ch=1EJx1_1sRY0rc11gU8GZAOhZxdSkRsU6qi9wrHvNNNtl3KSU3nN_1w==">2020 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>&nbsp;will also be announced during the summit. The competition features 16 nominated Kansas-made products that compete in a product head-to-head tournament. The top four companies will be invited to display their products at the summit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601065820968.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Director of Business and Industry at Hutchinson Community College will be one of the featured speakers at the Kansas Manufacturing Summit scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6, in Mulvane.&nbsp;Dave Mullins is one of six speakers and panelists for the summit that will focus on key issues challenging today's manufacturers. The day-long forum provides the opportunity to network, learn about manufacturing resources and industry trends, and gain insight into workforce development.The summit is part of the month-long celebration of National Manufacturing Month and is led by the Kansas Manufacturing Council, in partnership with Kansas Manufacturing Solutions, Pittsburg State University and the Kansas Chamber.The winner of the <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001baP_nuYFwiK8amIyRKDjzACxAss27RdOh2glJR9Vs4wkCK23mQXZYkLWuEi7w8pcahPFcRMJT3EF36uMIht9g9AXX_lVV6py5uG3HeDxFqKX9txulLv_7eu4K5hyKSqBCIKc7paCApiGSIc1RgIdsgRFBfnZtyRO_U3cS9BtkT_4U0SuyMH6kw==&amp;c=cK-uqeFXFqcZBmp1LzpHAbB_BE7fQgFKQPky6Lf3ouVUz1xxIsNrig==&amp;ch=1EJx1_1sRY0rc11gU8GZAOhZxdSkRsU6qi9wrHvNNNtl3KSU3nN_1w==">2020 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>&nbsp;will also be announced during the summit. The competition features 16 nominated Kansas-made products that compete in a product head-to-head tournament. The top four companies will be invited to display their products at the summit.

Mullins to speak at Kansas Manufacturing Summit


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Schools in Reno County will remain in the yellow zone by the county's gating criteria for next week.

The numbers appear to have taken a bit of a step back, with 91 positive cases in 14 days as of Friday and a positive test rate of 9.7%. 

Buhler USD 313 is looking at changing its approach to the gating criteria.

"We are looking at some modifications to our gating criteria that we need to both vet through our admin team a little bit more, through some staff and then also our board of education," said superintendent Cindy Couchman. "We will release the updates, assuming that we do update it, early next week."

At least right now it looks like Buhler Grade School will be allowed to reopen when expected.

"Yes, they are," Couchman said. "They're going to be back on Wednesday. We are waiting on one more test result. The others came back. I'm feeling pretty good about it."

As of Friday there are 7 active cases in USD 313 and 89 connected people under quarantine.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Schools in Reno County will remain in the yellow zone by the county's gating criteria for next week.The numbers appear to have taken a bit of a step back, with 91 positive cases in 14 days as of Friday and a positive test rate of 9.7%. Buhler USD 313 is looking at changing its approach to the gating criteria."We are looking at some modifications to our gating criteria that we need to both vet through our admin team a little bit more, through some staff and then also our board of education," said superintendent Cindy Couchman. "We will release the updates, assuming that we do update it, early next week."At least right now it looks like Buhler Grade School will be allowed to reopen when expected."Yes, they are," Couchman said. "They're going to be back on Wednesday. We are waiting on one more test result. The others came back. I'm feeling pretty good about it."As of Friday there are 7 active cases in USD 313 and 89 connected people under quarantine.

County schools in yellow for next week, USD 313 looking at gating criteria modification


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;This week is Child Passenger Safety Week.

"It's really just an opportunity for us to talk with families about why correct use of child restraints and seatbelts is so important and how parents and caregivers can access different resources across the state to be confident that their children are riding as safely as possible," said Cherie Sage with Safe Kids Kansas.

You don't have to spend for the highest end car seat to be safe.

"As long as it meets the federal motor vehicle safety standards, you can rest assured that that car seat is safe," Sage said. "It doesn't matter whether you're getting a car seat that is $65 or $300. Both of those should keep your child safe."

You do need to know the history of the car seat if you're going to buy used or get a hand-me-down.

"If a car seat has already been even in a minor crash, maybe visually it looks just fine, the fact is that car seat is designed to work perfectly once," Sage said. "Any other stress that might happen, it might not even be visual, but it might not perform the next time you're in a crash."

If you are in a crash with a car seat in the car, even if no one is in it, get rid of it and get a new one.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;This week is Child Passenger Safety Week."It's really just an opportunity for us to talk with families about why correct use of child restraints and seatbelts is so important and how parents and caregivers can access different resources across the state to be confident that their children are riding as safely as possible," said Cherie Sage with Safe Kids Kansas.You don't have to spend for the highest end car seat to be safe."As long as it meets the federal motor vehicle safety standards, you can rest assured that that car seat is safe," Sage said. "It doesn't matter whether you're getting a car seat that is $65 or $300. Both of those should keep your child safe."You do need to know the history of the car seat if you're going to buy used or get a hand-me-down."If a car seat has already been even in a minor crash, maybe visually it looks just fine, the fact is that car seat is designed to work perfectly once," Sage said. "Any other stress that might happen, it might not even be visual, but it might not perform the next time you're in a crash."If you are in a crash with a car seat in the car, even if no one is in it, get rid of it and get a new one.

Safe car seats don't have to be expensive, but you need to know crash history

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — September sales tax collections for Reno County continued in a&nbsp; positive trend.

The numbers for the month totaled $414,803. The number is the highest ever with the exception of last year when the total was just under $502,000. But that number is misleading as it includes residual revenue left over from the retirement of the ¼ -cent sales tax for the Reno County Correctional Facility.

When compared to 2018 the sales tax for 2020 was more than $71,000 higher. Sales tax figures have increased each of the past four months despite the pandemic-driven economy.&nbsp;

Sales tax figures for this month reflect sales for the month of July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565223563029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — September sales tax collections for Reno County continued in a&nbsp; positive trend.The numbers for the month totaled $414,803. The number is the highest ever with the exception of last year when the total was just under $502,000. But that number is misleading as it includes residual revenue left over from the retirement of the ¼ -cent sales tax for the Reno County Correctional Facility.When compared to 2018 the sales tax for 2020 was more than $71,000 higher. Sales tax figures have increased each of the past four months despite the pandemic-driven economy.&nbsp;Sales tax figures for this month reflect sales for the month of July.

Sales tax revenue for September announced

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced that starting Tuesday Jupiter Hills Drive will be closed to all traffic from East 43rd Avenue to Cherry Hills Drive.

Work crews will be doing repairs to the area along with shoulder and ditch work. The road is expected to be closed until Wednesday, October 7th, weather permitting.

&nbsp;For more information on this or any other city street project you can call Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601048150247.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced that starting Tuesday Jupiter Hills Drive will be closed to all traffic from East 43rd Avenue to Cherry Hills Drive.Work crews will be doing repairs to the area along with shoulder and ditch work. The road is expected to be closed until Wednesday, October 7th, weather permitting.&nbsp;For more information on this or any other city street project you can call Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

Portion of Jupiter Hills Drive to close starting Tuesday

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

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

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

Recent obituaries

Release from Hutchinson Police Department

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Police Department is committed to the safety and well-being of our citizens and would like to inform the public of recent reports taken by officers. Over the last week, Hutchinson Police have received two separate reports of attempted child abductions.

On September 17, 2020, at 7:41 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of East 6th. An 11-year-old female was playing in her yard. She reported being grabbed by her wrist and when she turned around, she saw a white male approximately 6’ tall/skinny build dressed in all black clothing and a black mask. The juvenile was able to get away from the suspect and she ran to a nearby building to hide. The suspect then walked away and was last seen westbound in an alley.

On September 24, 2020, at 4:55 p.m., officers responded to the Kwik Shop at 1401 E. 4th. It was reported that after shopping in the store a three-year old male was placed into his car seat. The mother then got into the driver’s seat and pushed a button to close the rear sliding door.&nbsp; Before the door shut, an unknown subject with facial hair, wearing grey sweatpants and a black sweatshirt was seen reaching into the van toward the child. The mother yelled and the suspect fled southbound.&nbsp;

Both of these incidents are active investigations and all resources are being utilized. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Reno County Crime Stoppers at 620-694-2666 or Lt. Dustin Loepp at 620-694-2829.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582822413263.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Hutchinson Police DepartmentHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Police Department is committed to the safety and well-being of our citizens and would like to inform the public of recent reports taken by officers. Over the last week, Hutchinson Police have received two separate reports of attempted child abductions.On September 17, 2020, at 7:41 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of East 6th. An 11-year-old female was playing in her yard. She reported being grabbed by her wrist and when she turned around, she saw a white male approximately 6’ tall/skinny build dressed in all black clothing and a black mask. The juvenile was able to get away from the suspect and she ran to a nearby building to hide. The suspect then walked away and was last seen westbound in an alley.On September 24, 2020, at 4:55 p.m., officers responded to the Kwik Shop at 1401 E. 4th. It was reported that after shopping in the store a three-year old male was placed into his car seat. The mother then got into the driver’s seat and pushed a button to close the rear sliding door.&nbsp; Before the door shut, an unknown subject with facial hair, wearing grey sweatpants and a black sweatshirt was seen reaching into the van toward the child. The mother yelled and the suspect fled southbound.&nbsp;Both of these incidents are active investigations and all resources are being utilized. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Reno County Crime Stoppers at 620-694-2666 or Lt. Dustin Loepp at 620-694-2829.

Police notify public on attempted abduction reports

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 announced Friday that there will be some temporary schedule changes in the district over a two-week period.

On Friday, Oct. 2, there will be no school for pre-kindergarten through sixth grade students. Teachers will have a day of professional development, professional learning communities and work. Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School will be in session on Oct. 2.

The following week is fall parent-teacher conference week.

Elementary schools are all done by appointment. Conferences will be held after school on Oct. 7 and all day on Oct. 8.

Oct. 7 is a regular day of classes for all pre-kindergarten through high school students. There will be no school on Oct. 8 and Oct. 9 for all district students.

Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School conferences do not need appointments. HHS conferences will be from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 8 in the Salthawk Activity Center. Hutchinson Middle School conferences will be in the commons of both campuses of HMS from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 8.

There will be no conferences and no school on Oct. 9.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 announced Friday that there will be some temporary schedule changes in the district over a two-week period.On Friday, Oct. 2, there will be no school for pre-kindergarten through sixth grade students. Teachers will have a day of professional development, professional learning communities and work. Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School will be in session on Oct. 2.The following week is fall parent-teacher conference week.Elementary schools are all done by appointment. Conferences will be held after school on Oct. 7 and all day on Oct. 8.Oct. 7 is a regular day of classes for all pre-kindergarten through high school students. There will be no school on Oct. 8 and Oct. 9 for all district students.Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School conferences do not need appointments. HHS conferences will be from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 8 in the Salthawk Activity Center. Hutchinson Middle School conferences will be in the commons of both campuses of HMS from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 8.There will be no conferences and no school on Oct. 9.

Schedule changes announced for USD 308

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County school districts saw mostly&nbsp; declining enrollment as the preliminary numbers were released.

In Buhler USD 313, enrollment was 2,310 — which is actually a few students higher than last year. Superintendent Cindy Couchman says, at the moment, they have 132 students remote learning and the district has seen about 25 students go to homeschooling. Couchman says the final number will probably be lower.

In Nickerson USD 309, the student count as of Monday was 1,154 — which is a drop of 20 students. Haven also saw a decline in numbers with around 700 students — a decline of around 30. Superintendent Clark Wedel says, while the district saw numbers fall with traditional schooling, the number of virtual classroom students increased. Haven has had virtual schooling for several years, which is not related to remote learning brought on by the pandemic.

In Fairfield, the number of students fell by 34 to 286.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569431760353.gif" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County school districts saw mostly&nbsp; declining enrollment as the preliminary numbers were released.In Buhler USD 313, enrollment was 2,310 — which is actually a few students higher than last year. Superintendent Cindy Couchman says, at the moment, they have 132 students remote learning and the district has seen about 25 students go to homeschooling. Couchman says the final number will probably be lower.In Nickerson USD 309, the student count as of Monday was 1,154 — which is a drop of 20 students. Haven also saw a decline in numbers with around 700 students — a decline of around 30. Superintendent Clark Wedel says, while the district saw numbers fall with traditional schooling, the number of virtual classroom students increased. Haven has had virtual schooling for several years, which is not related to remote learning brought on by the pandemic.In Fairfield, the number of students fell by 34 to 286.

Enrollment numbers down in Reno County


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson St. Vincent De Paul group is holding their Friends of the Poor® Walk Saturday.

"We've done it every year for probably at least ten years," said Lovella Kelley with St. Vincent De Paul. "It's at Holy Cross Saturday morning at 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Every penny that we get from this walk is used right here in Hutchinson."

They are still doing a physical walk this year.

"It's one of those events where, you don't pledge us so much per mile or so much per anything," Kelley said. "We just get together and we have a course set up around the campus of Holy Cross. It's probably a half-mile or so. You don't ever cross a street. It's just very casual and very pleasant."

COVID-19 has brought community needs to the forefront.

"It's very important in our community because, particularly right now, things are not real great for a lot of people," Kelley said. "We're helping with food, rent, utilities, just about anything that is considered a crisis event in their life."

Over $2.2 million was raised nationally in 2019.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson St. Vincent De Paul group is holding their Friends of the Poor® Walk Saturday."We've done it every year for probably at least ten years," said Lovella Kelley with St. Vincent De Paul. "It's at Holy Cross Saturday morning at 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Every penny that we get from this walk is used right here in Hutchinson."They are still doing a physical walk this year."It's one of those events where, you don't pledge us so much per mile or so much per anything," Kelley said. "We just get together and we have a course set up around the campus of Holy Cross. It's probably a half-mile or so. You don't ever cross a street. It's just very casual and very pleasant."COVID-19 has brought community needs to the forefront."It's very important in our community because, particularly right now, things are not real great for a lot of people," Kelley said. "We're helping with food, rent, utilities, just about anything that is considered a crisis event in their life."Over $2.2 million was raised nationally in 2019.

Friends of the Poor Walk Saturday in Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you are in Hutchinson you no doubt have seen and stopped at the traveling bowl food truck. Now Ginal Emil is opening a permanent location at 2221 N Lorraine. The location is the site of several former small restaurants on the Alley Bowling property.&nbsp;

Along with the new location comes the addition of two new employees, more seating for diners, and the addition of a drive through window. Traveling Bowl also plans to keep their food truck to serve customers their homestyle cuisine at special events around the area.

StartUp Hutch announced they will provide a $7,000 loan to help with expenses of the new equipment needed for the business’ expansion, including the furnishing of a larger kitchen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600960660659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you are in Hutchinson you no doubt have seen and stopped at the traveling bowl food truck. Now Ginal Emil is opening a permanent location at 2221 N Lorraine. The location is the site of several former small restaurants on the Alley Bowling property.&nbsp;Along with the new location comes the addition of two new employees, more seating for diners, and the addition of a drive through window. Traveling Bowl also plans to keep their food truck to serve customers their homestyle cuisine at special events around the area.StartUp Hutch announced they will provide a $7,000 loan to help with expenses of the new equipment needed for the business’ expansion, including the furnishing of a larger kitchen.

Local food truck business establishing opening sit in restaurant


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Democratic incumbent 102nd House District Representative Jason Probst said Thursday work he's done on changing how land contracts work in Kansas is going forward.

"We've brought in attorneys and people who work in real estate and lenders," Probst said. "There's a really good group of smart people working to figure out what the best solution for this might be. I feel really good about that because it's kind of been removed from the partisanship and there are people that are working toward a real solution on that."

The issue is that nothing needs to be filed on a land contract right now and that doesn't protect either side in a dispute.

"I really want to leave agriculture and commercial property alone," Probst said. "My focus on this is residential transactions. If you buy a house on a mortgage, there are a number of inspections that happen, there's a recording of the deed. If you go to get a second mortgage, the bank is going to see there's a first mortgage, all sorts of things like that that are public record that are available to see."

Some states have done away with land contracts, but that's not the aim here.

"I'm not looking to do away with land contracts," Probst said. "This is sometimes the only way some people can get into a home. I just think that we need to formalize it a little bit, so that there's a lot more protection for everybody involved in the contract."

The Judicial Council has another meeting Friday to discuss the topic.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600960659626.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Democratic incumbent 102nd House District Representative Jason Probst said Thursday work he's done on changing how land contracts work in Kansas is going forward."We've brought in attorneys and people who work in real estate and lenders," Probst said. "There's a really good group of smart people working to figure out what the best solution for this might be. I feel really good about that because it's kind of been removed from the partisanship and there are people that are working toward a real solution on that."The issue is that nothing needs to be filed on a land contract right now and that doesn't protect either side in a dispute."I really want to leave agriculture and commercial property alone," Probst said. "My focus on this is residential transactions. If you buy a house on a mortgage, there are a number of inspections that happen, there's a recording of the deed. If you go to get a second mortgage, the bank is going to see there's a first mortgage, all sorts of things like that that are public record that are available to see."Some states have done away with land contracts, but that's not the aim here."I'm not looking to do away with land contracts," Probst said. "This is sometimes the only way some people can get into a home. I just think that we need to formalize it a little bit, so that there's a lot more protection for everybody involved in the contract."The Judicial Council has another meeting Friday to discuss the topic.

Probst: Work on land contracts going forward

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department says they will host another weekend of community testing on Saturday. 

The testing will once again be held at the Hutchinson Clinic 2107 Building driveway from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. or until 250 tests are administered.

If you would like a test the Health Department asks that you be a resident of Reno County, not have any COVID-19 symptoms, not be in direct contact with a COVID patient and not have carried a positive test in the past 90 days. They also ask that if you have been tested in the past 30 days not to get another test.

The purpose of the testing is to have a larger sampling of individuals who do not have symptoms, which should give an accurate picture of the positive test rate in Reno County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598639401459.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department says they will host another weekend of community testing on Saturday. The testing will once again be held at the Hutchinson Clinic 2107 Building driveway from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. or until 250 tests are administered.If you would like a test the Health Department asks that you be a resident of Reno County, not have any COVID-19 symptoms, not be in direct contact with a COVID patient and not have carried a positive test in the past 90 days. They also ask that if you have been tested in the past 30 days not to get another test.The purpose of the testing is to have a larger sampling of individuals who do not have symptoms, which should give an accurate picture of the positive test rate in Reno County.

Another round of community testing set for Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department and other area law enforcement will be at a Back the Blue event this Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Allen Samuels. The event is hosted by Back the Blue of Reno County.

This is a chance to meet and talk with local law enforcement. There will be free hot dogs, chips and drinks along with a bouncy house for the children.&nbsp;

Tyson Foods, Smiths Market, Jackson Dairy and City Beverage have donated food and drink items.&nbsp;

And, there will be t-shirts for sale to support our men and women in blue. Reffner's made up the T-Shirts that will be for sale.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600959941475.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department and other area law enforcement will be at a Back the Blue event this Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Allen Samuels. The event is hosted by Back the Blue of Reno County.This is a chance to meet and talk with local law enforcement. There will be free hot dogs, chips and drinks along with a bouncy house for the children.&nbsp;Tyson Foods, Smiths Market, Jackson Dairy and City Beverage have donated food and drink items.&nbsp;And, there will be t-shirts for sale to support our men and women in blue. Reffner's made up the T-Shirts that will be for sale.

Back the Blue event Saturday in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall is a cosponsor of a bill to allow PPP funds to be applied for a second time for some small businesses and also sets aside specific money for really small shops.

"My heart always goes out to those small businesses," Marshall said. "I think Main Street was impacted as much as anybody. We had $130 billion left from the previous CARES Act Paycheck Protection Program that was not utilized yet. Rather than going and borrowing more money from our grandchildren, I'd like to use the money we've already appropriated and really target to some small businesses with ten employees or less."

This spring, more than 50,000 loans totaling $5 billion were made to businesses in Kansas, saving approximately 500,000 jobs across the state. 

"It always amazes me, when the kids need jerseys for their ball teams, they don't go to some of the other big box stores, they go to Main Street," Marshall said. "Those folks are typically the leaders in the Chamber, the leaders in the United Way and volunteers at their church and in the rotaries and all those things, as well. Main Street is a staple of small town America."

Consistent with the original Paycheck Protection Program, funding from the new round of loans must be used on payroll and authorized business-related expenses. 

"Really, it's as simple as going to your bank and they can work with the Small Business Administration to do it," Marshall said. "There's a chance of forgiveness for the smaller loans under $150,000 is the hope, that those will be forgiven. If they're less than $350,000 there will be an easy form to do."

The bill was authored by Small Business Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot of Ohio.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595001869381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall is a cosponsor of a bill to allow PPP funds to be applied for a second time for some small businesses and also sets aside specific money for really small shops."My heart always goes out to those small businesses," Marshall said. "I think Main Street was impacted as much as anybody. We had $130 billion left from the previous CARES Act Paycheck Protection Program that was not utilized yet. Rather than going and borrowing more money from our grandchildren, I'd like to use the money we've already appropriated and really target to some small businesses with ten employees or less."This spring, more than 50,000 loans totaling $5 billion were made to businesses in Kansas, saving approximately 500,000 jobs across the state. "It always amazes me, when the kids need jerseys for their ball teams, they don't go to some of the other big box stores, they go to Main Street," Marshall said. "Those folks are typically the leaders in the Chamber, the leaders in the United Way and volunteers at their church and in the rotaries and all those things, as well. Main Street is a staple of small town America."Consistent with the original Paycheck Protection Program, funding from the new round of loans must be used on payroll and authorized business-related expenses. "Really, it's as simple as going to your bank and they can work with the Small Business Administration to do it," Marshall said. "There's a chance of forgiveness for the smaller loans under $150,000 is the hope, that those will be forgiven. If they're less than $350,000 there will be an easy form to do."The bill was authored by Small Business Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot of Ohio.

Marshall cosponsor of new PPP legislation


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) Business Development staff were big winners in the annual Kansas Association of Health Care Communicators (KAHCC) awards presented during the organization’s annual Fall Conference on September 11. The KAHCC is an umbrella organization of the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA).

The KAHCC is a statewide organization consisting of membership of Marketing staff members from many of the state’s 123 hospitals and is dedicated to improving communication with communities, health care employees, physicians and the news media.

Top prize winners were designated winners of an Emerald Award and other entries of note were presented with a Certificate of Merit.

Hutch Regional Business Development staff were named winners of two Emerald Awards.

Under the category of Internal Communications, Terry Weathers won top honors for the Central Line Newsletter (employee publication) and teamed up with Sue Wray, Christopher Steen and Richard Shank in the launch campaign of the Hutchinson Pulmonology Associates at Hutch Regional.

Certificates of Merit Award Winners include: --Employee Testimonial Video—Terry Weathers

---CEO Column—Richard Shank (Monthly column in the Hutchinson News) ---Infection Control Campaign—Christopher Steen ---First Course —Terry Weathers (monthly lecture series) --Pushing Forward—Terry Weathers (Video on Hutchinson Regional Medical Center staff participation in development of the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit). --News Release (Robotic Arm knee replacement procedure)—Richard Shank --Human Interest Story (Judy Hill on her retirement as Manager of the Hutch Regional Gift Shop)—Richard Shank

Three marketing professionals from Georgia with extensive experience in health care marketing evaluated this year’s entries for planning, research, implementation, cost effectiveness and results.

Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said one of the most important goals the organization is to effectively communicate our story to employees and those who reside within our community and service area. “These awards reflect hours of hard work and planning, and comes as no surprise as this team of healthcare professionals are repeat winners in the annual KAHCC Awards,” Johnson said. “Also, the awards are reaffirmation that our team of healthcare professionals compete well with a number of organizations that are far larger than Hutch Regional.”

Entities within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System are Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, Health-E-Quip, and the Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574787528114.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) Business Development staff were big winners in the annual Kansas Association of Health Care Communicators (KAHCC) awards presented during the organization’s annual Fall Conference on September 11. The KAHCC is an umbrella organization of the Kansas Hospital Association (KHA).The KAHCC is a statewide organization consisting of membership of Marketing staff members from many of the state’s 123 hospitals and is dedicated to improving communication with communities, health care employees, physicians and the news media.Top prize winners were designated winners of an Emerald Award and other entries of note were presented with a Certificate of Merit.Hutch Regional Business Development staff were named winners of two Emerald Awards.Under the category of Internal Communications, Terry Weathers won top honors for the Central Line Newsletter (employee publication) and teamed up with Sue Wray, Christopher Steen and Richard Shank in the launch campaign of the Hutchinson Pulmonology Associates at Hutch Regional.Certificates of Merit Award Winners include: --Employee Testimonial Video—Terry Weathers---CEO Column—Richard Shank (Monthly column in the Hutchinson News) ---Infection Control Campaign—Christopher Steen ---First Course —Terry Weathers (monthly lecture series) --Pushing Forward—Terry Weathers (Video on Hutchinson Regional Medical Center staff participation in development of the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit). --News Release (Robotic Arm knee replacement procedure)—Richard Shank --Human Interest Story (Judy Hill on her retirement as Manager of the Hutch Regional Gift Shop)—Richard ShankThree marketing professionals from Georgia with extensive experience in health care marketing evaluated this year’s entries for planning, research, implementation, cost effectiveness and results.Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, said one of the most important goals the organization is to effectively communicate our story to employees and those who reside within our community and service area. “These awards reflect hours of hard work and planning, and comes as no surprise as this team of healthcare professionals are repeat winners in the annual KAHCC Awards,” Johnson said. “Also, the awards are reaffirmation that our team of healthcare professionals compete well with a number of organizations that are far larger than Hutch Regional.”Entities within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System are Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, Health-E-Quip, and the Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation