BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board approved some
changes to the school calendar during a special meeting held Monday afternoon.

The changes affect both Thanksgiving and Christmas break.
Next week, students will be out of school all day Nov. 25 instead of just a half day. Both were approved by the certified staff last week.

In December, there are two changes. On Dec. 11, school will
be in full session. That was to be an off day, but there will be classes. The
Christmas break will begin two days earlier than scheduled. Students will get
off for the Christmas break after classes Friday, Dec. 18, giving them two full
weeks of Christmas break. Students will
return to class Jan. 4.

One other note, buses No. 22, driven by Kristin Schmidt, and No. 34, driven by Cindy Guffy, will not run on Dec. 11 due to a scheduling conflict. All of the updated information is now available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd313.org/">usd313.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board approved some
changes to the school calendar during a special meeting held Monday afternoon.The changes affect both Thanksgiving and Christmas break.
Next week, students will be out of school all day Nov. 25 instead of just a half day. Both were approved by the certified staff last week.In December, there are two changes. On Dec. 11, school will
be in full session. That was to be an off day, but there will be classes. The
Christmas break will begin two days earlier than scheduled. Students will get
off for the Christmas break after classes Friday, Dec. 18, giving them two full
weeks of Christmas break. Students will
return to class Jan. 4.One other note, buses No. 22, driven by Kristin Schmidt, and No. 34, driven by Cindy Guffy, will not run on Dec. 11 due to a scheduling conflict. All of the updated information is now available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd313.org/">usd313.org</a>.

USD 313 Board approves school calendar changes

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Salvation Army kicked off the Christmas season with the
start of the annual Red Kettle Campaign. Major Paul James and a small group
began the annual season of giving in front of the Sleep Shoppe Monday afternoon.

The pandemic
and the financial hardship it has caused has created an unprecedented need in
the community this Christmas season. 

According to
James, the Salvation Army gave assistance to 807 families and provided gifts to
over 600 children in 2019. In the first two weeks of the sign up period this
year, more than 600 families and 700 children are already on the sign up list.
James says that list keeps growing each day and the phone has not stopped
ringing. 

The goal for
this year is $250,000. The kettles will be at selected stores starting in
the next few days and will be at all locations starting Saturday. There will be
some things different for bell ringers this year. All will wear masks and
gloves and all of them will stand six feet from the kettle.

The Salvation
Army hopes that you will help out this holiday season by dropping your change
and maybe a few dollars into the kettles each time you pass one this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605560375916.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Salvation Army kicked off the Christmas season with the
start of the annual Red Kettle Campaign. Major Paul James and a small group
began the annual season of giving in front of the Sleep Shoppe Monday afternoon.The pandemic
and the financial hardship it has caused has created an unprecedented need in
the community this Christmas season. According to
James, the Salvation Army gave assistance to 807 families and provided gifts to
over 600 children in 2019. In the first two weeks of the sign up period this
year, more than 600 families and 700 children are already on the sign up list.
James says that list keeps growing each day and the phone has not stopped
ringing. The goal for
this year is $250,000. The kettles will be at selected stores starting in
the next few days and will be at all locations starting Saturday. There will be
some things different for bell ringers this year. All will wear masks and
gloves and all of them will stand six feet from the kettle.The Salvation
Army hopes that you will help out this holiday season by dropping your change
and maybe a few dollars into the kettles each time you pass one this year.

Salvation Army kicks off Red Kettle campaign

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The preliminary hearing for a Hutchinson
Correctional Facility employee was continued because he is in quarantine along
with several witnesses and co-defendants. &nbsp;

Twenty-two-year-old Zachary Woods of Newton faces eight
different counts in an effort to smuggle K2 into the facility. Woods faces three
counts of conspiracy, three counts of using a communication device to
distribute drugs, one count of drug distribution and one count of trafficking
contraband into a correctional facility.

According to the complaint, Woods is accused of using three
different women to bring the synthetic marijuana into the facility over a
period of two months.

The hearings for the three women, Esther Davis, Stephanie
Thindiu and Denisha Starnes were also continued.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600357864536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The preliminary hearing for a Hutchinson
Correctional Facility employee was continued because he is in quarantine along
with several witnesses and co-defendants. &nbsp;Twenty-two-year-old Zachary Woods of Newton faces eight
different counts in an effort to smuggle K2 into the facility. Woods faces three
counts of conspiracy, three counts of using a communication device to
distribute drugs, one count of drug distribution and one count of trafficking
contraband into a correctional facility.According to the complaint, Woods is accused of using three
different women to bring the synthetic marijuana into the facility over a
period of two months.The hearings for the three women, Esther Davis, Stephanie
Thindiu and Denisha Starnes were also continued.

Preliminary hearing for HCF prison guard continued

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —There‘s a local group called Hutchinson Street
Cat Society. Their mission is to help recognize and deal with the feral cat
population in the area. 

Over the weekend, the group teamed up with the Hutchinson
Animal Shelter and the K-State Mobile Surgery Unit, to have a "Kitty Catch
Up" TNR Day. Forty-two cats were checked in for their spays and neuters. Two were microchipped, and those were reunited with their families. Due to the event, hundreds upon hundreds of unwanted
kittens will now never be born.

If you see a cat with the tip of the left ear removed,
please know that it has been spayed or neutered, and has a caretaker.

The group also wanted to thank Cause For Paws Inc., for their
donation of additional humane traps to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605558248946.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —There‘s a local group called Hutchinson Street
Cat Society. Their mission is to help recognize and deal with the feral cat
population in the area. Over the weekend, the group teamed up with the Hutchinson
Animal Shelter and the K-State Mobile Surgery Unit, to have a "Kitty Catch
Up" TNR Day. Forty-two cats were checked in for their spays and neuters. Two were microchipped, and those were reunited with their families. Due to the event, hundreds upon hundreds of unwanted
kittens will now never be born.If you see a cat with the tip of the left ear removed,
please know that it has been spayed or neutered, and has a caretaker.The group also wanted to thank Cause For Paws Inc., for their
donation of additional humane traps to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.

Hutchinson Street Cat society holds feral cat event

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department confirms three more local resident deaths with laboratory confirmed COVID-19. This brings the Reno County death toll since the beginning of the pandemic to thirty-three.

Out of respect for the families, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about these individuals.

Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department confirms three more local resident deaths with laboratory confirmed COVID-19. This brings the Reno County death toll since the beginning of the pandemic to thirty-three.Out of respect for the families, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about these individuals.Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

Thirty-three now dead according to COVID-19 dashboard

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— This month has traditionally been set
aside by the Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce to recognize farming
and ag related businesses in the area. With the pandemic, that will change for
this month’s Chamber breakfast.

This year’s Farm Family Focus event will be virtual and
is sponsored by ProValue Insurance, on Wednesday, November 18th at
8:30am.&nbsp; The featured speaker will be Rick McNary, founder of Shop Kansas
Farms.&nbsp; The annual event is a chance to thank all Reno County farmers for
the work they do, as well as announce the Farm Focus family of the Year and the
Agri-Business of the Year. 
 
This event will is free to Chamber members, however advance registration is
required. Go to <a href="http://hutchchamber.com">hutchchamber.com</a> for information and to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.— This month has traditionally been set
aside by the Hutchinson Reno County Chamber of Commerce to recognize farming
and ag related businesses in the area. With the pandemic, that will change for
this month’s Chamber breakfast.This year’s Farm Family Focus event will be virtual and
is sponsored by ProValue Insurance, on Wednesday, November 18th at
8:30am.&nbsp; The featured speaker will be Rick McNary, founder of Shop Kansas
Farms.&nbsp; The annual event is a chance to thank all Reno County farmers for
the work they do, as well as announce the Farm Focus family of the Year and the
Agri-Business of the Year. 
 
This event will is free to Chamber members, however advance registration is
required. Go to <a href="http://hutchchamber.com">hutchchamber.com</a> for information and to register.

Farm Focus chamber event Wednesday

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. — COVID-19 is causing economic concerns even as policymakers continue to wrestle with what restrictions, if any, to put in place beyond the current health order in Reno County.

"Not only do we have people being impacted by COVID and having to quarantine, but it's starting to impact the daily operation of businesses because of people either with COVID that have tested positive, or people who have been around them, who now have to quarantine," said Debra Teufel President &amp; CEO at Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce. "It's causing a lot of absenteeism. There's also the issue with the hybrid situation with schools. Sometimes, if you have small children, you need to be at home and then it makes it where you can't be at work."

Teufel can't say enough that we have got to do something as a community.

"We need everyone to be diligent," Teufel said. "It does become an economic issue. We do not want to have another business shut down. We do not want to have a mandate of a stay at home order, but we want people voluntarily doing their part, washing their hands, wearing masks, limiting their exposure to other people outside of the home, so that we can get this virus under control in the community."

Even if you may not agree with some of the measures, it's still important to respect the needs of the business owners who are trying to stay afloat.

"Businesses up and down Main Street and in the community want their employees to wear masks, but they also want their patrons wearing masks," Teufel said. "If you go to work and then you get exposed by someone who just didn't feel it was necessary to wear a mask into your place of business, it puts that business owner in a really tough position. You want to enforce mask wearing in your doors, but you also don't want to alienate customers."

Teufel is just asking the community to be respectful and take all the possible precautions, whether you believe in mask wearing or not.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580397097469.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — COVID-19 is causing economic concerns even as policymakers continue to wrestle with what restrictions, if any, to put in place beyond the current health order in Reno County."Not only do we have people being impacted by COVID and having to quarantine, but it's starting to impact the daily operation of businesses because of people either with COVID that have tested positive, or people who have been around them, who now have to quarantine," said Debra Teufel President &amp; CEO at Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce. "It's causing a lot of absenteeism. There's also the issue with the hybrid situation with schools. Sometimes, if you have small children, you need to be at home and then it makes it where you can't be at work."Teufel can't say enough that we have got to do something as a community."We need everyone to be diligent," Teufel said. "It does become an economic issue. We do not want to have another business shut down. We do not want to have a mandate of a stay at home order, but we want people voluntarily doing their part, washing their hands, wearing masks, limiting their exposure to other people outside of the home, so that we can get this virus under control in the community."Even if you may not agree with some of the measures, it's still important to respect the needs of the business owners who are trying to stay afloat."Businesses up and down Main Street and in the community want their employees to wear masks, but they also want their patrons wearing masks," Teufel said. "If you go to work and then you get exposed by someone who just didn't feel it was necessary to wear a mask into your place of business, it puts that business owner in a really tough position. You want to enforce mask wearing in your doors, but you also don't want to alienate customers."Teufel is just asking the community to be respectful and take all the possible precautions, whether you believe in mask wearing or not.

Teufel: COVID-19 impacting daily business operations


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United Way annual campaign is continuing forward despite the pandemic.

"We are at 54%," said Lisa Gleason with the United Way of Reno County. "We hit $600,000 on Friday. We're very excited about that. If you remember, our goal is $1,100,000."

Gleason knows that people are continuing to be generous when they are able even in the midst of a tough time economically for some of them.

"The community is amazing," Gleason said. "They have really stepped up and recognized that United Way needs that support probably now more than ever in our eighty some years of fundraising here in this community."

A fundraiser planned for later this week has gone virtual for the United Way of Reno County.

"On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, everybody can shop safely from the comfort of their home and go to kendrascott.com," Gleason said. "If they use the code GIVEBACK-04SQ, a portion of all funds raised on those two days will give back to United Way of Reno County."

United Way of Reno County supports 24 partner agencies in their work throughout the community. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605541075702.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United Way annual campaign is continuing forward despite the pandemic."We are at 54%," said Lisa Gleason with the United Way of Reno County. "We hit $600,000 on Friday. We're very excited about that. If you remember, our goal is $1,100,000."Gleason knows that people are continuing to be generous when they are able even in the midst of a tough time economically for some of them."The community is amazing," Gleason said. "They have really stepped up and recognized that United Way needs that support probably now more than ever in our eighty some years of fundraising here in this community."A fundraiser planned for later this week has gone virtual for the United Way of Reno County."On Wednesday and Thursday of this week, everybody can shop safely from the comfort of their home and go to kendrascott.com," Gleason said. "If they use the code GIVEBACK-04SQ, a portion of all funds raised on those two days will give back to United Way of Reno County."United Way of Reno County supports 24 partner agencies in their work throughout the community.

United Way continuing to fundraise, even in midst of pandemic

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Despite shutdowns due to a major fire in Kansas and the pandemic,
Tyson Foods posted stronger than expected fourth quarter earnings Monday thanks
in part to a resurgence in beef and pork purchases from U.S. consumers.

Tyson, reported
a revenue increase of 5.3% to $11.46 billion compared with $10.88 billion last
year.

The strong
numbers offset losses from the pandemic. Tyson said it absorbed around $540
million in coronavirus-related costs for its 2020 financial year, including
those linked to plant closures, safety measures, testing and product
downgrades.

After slowdowns
due to restaurant closings amid the pandemic, the prepared foods segment of the
company also recovered posting total sales of $2.2 billion an increase of 1.6%
although sales for the entire fiscal year fell by 1.9%.

Tyson
operates two prepared foods plants in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588685864920.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Despite shutdowns due to a major fire in Kansas and the pandemic,
Tyson Foods posted stronger than expected fourth quarter earnings Monday thanks
in part to a resurgence in beef and pork purchases from U.S. consumers.Tyson, reported
a revenue increase of 5.3% to $11.46 billion compared with $10.88 billion last
year.The strong
numbers offset losses from the pandemic. Tyson said it absorbed around $540
million in coronavirus-related costs for its 2020 financial year, including
those linked to plant closures, safety measures, testing and product
downgrades.After slowdowns
due to restaurant closings amid the pandemic, the prepared foods segment of the
company also recovered posting total sales of $2.2 billion an increase of 1.6%
although sales for the entire fiscal year fell by 1.9%.Tyson
operates two prepared foods plants in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson.

Tyson recovered to post strong 4Q numbers

Harvest is winding down or already completed. Cattle are turned out on winter pasture. And I’m sure some have already selected their turkey for Thanksgiving. Yes, the end of 2020 is approaching fast — thankfully, mercifully.

Like the previous 101 years, this one won’t end without Kansas Farm Bureau’s annual meeting. Normally we’d gather hundreds of members in person to celebrate another harvest, recognize agricultural leaders and conduct the business of this great organization.

We’ll still do all that good stuff at our 102nd annual meeting Dec. 3-4, with the slight change of beaming the workshops, speakers, panel discussions, general sessions and more to your living room, tractor cab or barn.

The virtual sessions on Thursday and Friday will allow all Farm Bureau members in Kansas to participate for free, including Vance Crowe’s keynote address to lead off the meeting Thursday morning. Members can view the annual meeting agenda and register at www.kfb.org/annualmeeting. 

Other highlights include an appearance from U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, an update from Andrew Walmsley on American Farm Bureau Activities in Washington, D.C. and a townhall with our newly elected federal officials.

Additionally, there’s time set aside for networking, chatting about sessions and providing feedback. It’s similar to what would happen in the hallways and around meals at a regular convention.

I won’t try to sell you on the notion technology will fully replicate the KFB annual meeting experience because it can’t. However, like so many other things this year, it’s the safest way for members and staff to mark the trials and tribulations of 2020 and honor the achievements of agriculture and its practitioners.

Believe me, I know social distancing, mask wearing, avoiding public spaces have become tiresome chores. But we’re getting closer to the end of this malignancy. Just last week promising news of a vaccine was announced. Others are in the works as well. With the aid of science, hopefully this will be the first and last annual meeting held over computer screens.

The fact is right now, there’s no good way to bring hundreds of people together from every corner of the state and have them gather together for an extended amount of time. Significant modifications have been made to allow delegates to conduct KFB business when they gather on Saturday.

Voting delegates will debate and adopt policy statements for 2021, elect the KFB president and board members from even-numbered Farm Bureau districts. Delegates will attend in-person at one of the 10 hubs corresponding to their district. Attendance on Saturday is limited to KFB staff and voting delegates. These will be small groups with masks and plenty of space to spread out.

The logistics behind this year’s annual meeting are mind boggling, and I’ve been impressed with how many solutions, as imperfect as they may be, are available to help connect everyone at a distance. The show will go on with or without you, but I strongly urge you to take a look at the agenda, register and make plans to join us. There’s so much to see, learn and do, I know you’ll find something to grab your attention. I hope to see you there. And, of course, as with every other virtual event this year, pants are optional.

"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/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauHarvest is winding down or already completed. Cattle are turned out on winter pasture. And I’m sure some have already selected their turkey for Thanksgiving. Yes, the end of 2020 is approaching fast — thankfully, mercifully.Like the previous 101 years, this one won’t end without Kansas Farm Bureau’s annual meeting. Normally we’d gather hundreds of members in person to celebrate another harvest, recognize agricultural leaders and conduct the business of this great organization.We’ll still do all that good stuff at our 102nd annual meeting Dec. 3-4, with the slight change of beaming the workshops, speakers, panel discussions, general sessions and more to your living room, tractor cab or barn.The virtual sessions on Thursday and Friday will allow all Farm Bureau members in Kansas to participate for free, including Vance Crowe’s keynote address to lead off the meeting Thursday morning. Members can view the annual meeting agenda and register at www.kfb.org/annualmeeting. Other highlights include an appearance from U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, an update from Andrew Walmsley on American Farm Bureau Activities in Washington, D.C. and a townhall with our newly elected federal officials.Additionally, there’s time set aside for networking, chatting about sessions and providing feedback. It’s similar to what would happen in the hallways and around meals at a regular convention.I won’t try to sell you on the notion technology will fully replicate the KFB annual meeting experience because it can’t. However, like so many other things this year, it’s the safest way for members and staff to mark the trials and tribulations of 2020 and honor the achievements of agriculture and its practitioners.Believe me, I know social distancing, mask wearing, avoiding public spaces have become tiresome chores. But we’re getting closer to the end of this malignancy. Just last week promising news of a vaccine was announced. Others are in the works as well. With the aid of science, hopefully this will be the first and last annual meeting held over computer screens.The fact is right now, there’s no good way to bring hundreds of people together from every corner of the state and have them gather together for an extended amount of time. Significant modifications have been made to allow delegates to conduct KFB business when they gather on Saturday.Voting delegates will debate and adopt policy statements for 2021, elect the KFB president and board members from even-numbered Farm Bureau districts. Delegates will attend in-person at one of the 10 hubs corresponding to their district. Attendance on Saturday is limited to KFB staff and voting delegates. These will be small groups with masks and plenty of space to spread out.The logistics behind this year’s annual meeting are mind boggling, and I’ve been impressed with how many solutions, as imperfect as they may be, are available to help connect everyone at a distance. The show will go on with or without you, but I strongly urge you to take a look at the agenda, register and make plans to join us. There’s so much to see, learn and do, I know you’ll find something to grab your attention. I hope to see you there. And, of course, as with every other virtual event this year, pants are optional."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 Show Goes On


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The numbers on the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard as of Sunday evening should sound the alarm, if there is anyone left who isn't convinced it is a serious problem in the community.

The county overall is officially at a high alert level. This means there is a widespread outbreak that is growing with many undetected cases. Take strong measures to limit all contact.

Thirty people have died of COVID-19, 21 of those in the last 30 days. The youngest death was a 50-year-old. The oldest was 96. The average age of death for that group of 30 is 77.6 years old, with a median age of 79.

There are 950 active cases, with 687 in the community. The correctional facility cluster type has 298 cases. The long-term care facility cluster type has 49 active cases, with 7 deaths.

There are 40 active clusters in the community.

Twenty-seven people are in the hospital. One hundred forty-four have been hospitalized. Fifty-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 17 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 16.17%, with the overall positive test rate at 23.44%. 23.35% of the population has been tested.

The next community testing date is Tuesday the 17th at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605524255955.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The numbers on the Reno County COVID-19 dashboard as of Sunday evening should sound the alarm, if there is anyone left who isn't convinced it is a serious problem in the community.The county overall is officially at a high alert level. This means there is a widespread outbreak that is growing with many undetected cases. Take strong measures to limit all contact.Thirty people have died of COVID-19, 21 of those in the last 30 days. The youngest death was a 50-year-old. The oldest was 96. The average age of death for that group of 30 is 77.6 years old, with a median age of 79.There are 950 active cases, with 687 in the community. The correctional facility cluster type has 298 cases. The long-term care facility cluster type has 49 active cases, with 7 deaths.There are 40 active clusters in the community.Twenty-seven people are in the hospital. One hundred forty-four have been hospitalized. Fifty-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 17 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 16.17%, with the overall positive test rate at 23.44%. 23.35% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Tuesday the 17th at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Overall county on high alert for COVID-19, 950 active cases, with 687 in community


HARVEY COUNTY —&nbsp;Over 5,000 acres of Harvey County land was burned over the weekend in a fire large enough to get a name and show up on the public fire information page of the U.S. Forest Service. 

The initial call to Harvey County Communications on what firefighters are calling the Wheat State Fire was received at 12:44 p.m. Saturday. The call reported a grass fire in pastureland.  

No injuries occurred as a result of the fire, and just minor damage to one outbuilding happened as a result of the blaze that started near Northwest 48th Street and North Burmac Road, southeast of Buhler. The cause of the fire has not been determined.

The Kansas Forest Service and over 150 firefighters from all across central Kansas battled most of the weekend to control the fire.

Emergency responders battled a grass fire near Northwest 48th Street and North Burmac Road, southeast of Buhler on Saturday afternoon, according to public information officer for Harvey County Kyle McCaskey.

The initial call to Harvey County Communications was received at 12:44 p.m. The call reported a grass fire in pastureland.&nbsp;&nbsp;About 700 acres of land had burned as of 3:30 p.m Saturday.

No injuries or damage to structures have been reported at this time. However, emergency responders are prioritizing protecting structures in the area, according to McCaskey.

Continued strong, gusty winds are providing additional challenges for first responders. Roads in the area are closed to traffic. Individuals are asked to avoid the area.

The cause of the fire has not been determined.

Several agencies have responded to the scene, including fire departments from Burrton, Cheney, Halstead, Hesston, Moundridge, Mount Hope, Reno County and Walton, as well as the Kansas Forest Service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605396646254.png" alt="Saturday afternoon grass fire photo courtesy Harvey County Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Saturday afternoon grass fire photo courtesy Harvey County Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>
HARVEY COUNTY —&nbsp;Over 5,000 acres of Harvey County land was burned over the weekend in a fire large enough to get a name and show up on the public fire information page of the U.S. Forest Service. The initial call to Harvey County Communications on what firefighters are calling the Wheat State Fire was received at 12:44 p.m. Saturday. The call reported a grass fire in pastureland. No injuries occurred as a result of the fire, and just minor damage to one outbuilding happened as a result of the blaze that started near Northwest 48th Street and North Burmac Road, southeast of Buhler. The cause of the fire has not been determined.The Kansas Forest Service and over 150 firefighters from all across central Kansas battled most of the weekend to control the fire.Original story:Emergency responders battled a grass fire near Northwest 48th Street and North Burmac Road, southeast of Buhler on Saturday afternoon, according to public information officer for Harvey County Kyle McCaskey.The initial call to Harvey County Communications was received at 12:44 p.m. The call reported a grass fire in pastureland.&nbsp;&nbsp;About 700 acres of land had burned as of 3:30 p.m Saturday.No injuries or damage to structures have been reported at this time. However, emergency responders are prioritizing protecting structures in the area, according to McCaskey.Continued strong, gusty winds are providing additional challenges for first responders. Roads in the area are closed to traffic. Individuals are asked to avoid the area.The cause of the fire has not been determined.Several agencies have responded to the scene, including fire departments from Burrton, Cheney, Halstead, Hesston, Moundridge, Mount Hope, Reno County and Walton, as well as the Kansas Forest Service.

UPDATE: Wheat State Fire burns over 5,000 acres


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will have a light agenda Tuesday.

The council will pass its consent agenda, have a public hearing on a utility easement vacation at 902 Corey Road, consider bids for upgrades to the electrical at the Hutchinson Zoo and discuss Reno County sewer districts 201 and 202 and the 2021 dental and health insurance premiums for city employees. 

The council will also receive a report from City Manager Jeff Cantrell and have council and mayoral comments.

The meeting will take place at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall and be streamed on Facebook and Youtube.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will have a light agenda Tuesday.The council will pass its consent agenda, have a public hearing on a utility easement vacation at 902 Corey Road, consider bids for upgrades to the electrical at the Hutchinson Zoo and discuss Reno County sewer districts 201 and 202 and the 2021 dental and health insurance premiums for city employees. The council will also receive a report from City Manager Jeff Cantrell and have council and mayoral comments.The meeting will take place at 9 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall and be streamed on Facebook and Youtube.

Light agenda for council Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;According to a University of Kansas law professor, there are a couple of routes the U.S. Supreme Court could choose to take to uphold the Affordable Care Act after oral arguments took place Tuesday in California v. Texas. One involves a concept called severability.

"Severability is a body of judicial doctrine which asks the question, hey, we have a statute here and the statute has lots of parts," said Lou Mulligan, Earl B. Shurtz Research Professor of Law at The University of Kansas. "Some parts of it are constitutional and some parts of it are not constitutional, so, should we find the entire statute unconstitutional, or just the sub-part unconstitutional?"

The justices appeared to believe that the individual mandate portion of the law may be severable from the rest of it, but that's only if they think the case actually should have gotten to the court in the first place. That is where the concept of standing comes into play.

"Standing is the body of law that says, hey, you can only come to court if you're actually hurt," Mulligan said. "You can't come to court just because you're mad. You actually have to have what the courts call a concrete injury. Here, the ACA was amended to make the mandate tax penalty $0. There's a real question. What is your injury? If you don't get insurance under Obamacare, you'll face a zero dollar penalty?"

It's not clear which route the court may take. A decision in the case is expected sometime next year.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;According to a University of Kansas law professor, there are a couple of routes the U.S. Supreme Court could choose to take to uphold the Affordable Care Act after oral arguments took place Tuesday in California v. Texas. One involves a concept called severability."Severability is a body of judicial doctrine which asks the question, hey, we have a statute here and the statute has lots of parts," said Lou Mulligan, Earl B. Shurtz Research Professor of Law at The University of Kansas. "Some parts of it are constitutional and some parts of it are not constitutional, so, should we find the entire statute unconstitutional, or just the sub-part unconstitutional?"The justices appeared to believe that the individual mandate portion of the law may be severable from the rest of it, but that's only if they think the case actually should have gotten to the court in the first place. That is where the concept of standing comes into play."Standing is the body of law that says, hey, you can only come to court if you're actually hurt," Mulligan said. "You can't come to court just because you're mad. You actually have to have what the courts call a concrete injury. Here, the ACA was amended to make the mandate tax penalty $0. There's a real question. What is your injury? If you don't get insurance under Obamacare, you'll face a zero dollar penalty?"It's not clear which route the court may take. A decision in the case is expected sometime next year.

Mulligan: Supreme Court has two routes to uphold ACA, if it wants to

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will meet on Monday to discuss whether to extend the Christmas break by three days.

Currently, the break is to run from Dec. 24 through Jan. 3. Under the proposal, the break would start Monday, Dec. 21, adding three days. Any snow days would then be remote learning days.&nbsp;

Also Monday, the board will go over restrictions for winter sports activities. The restrictions would be much the same as they are for fall sports. No spectators would be allowed in middle school activities and all high school events would provide two tickets per athlete. There would be no pep band, no concession stands and no Panther Pride gear for sale. All facilities would be available for youth activities, but not for adults.&nbsp;

Monday’s meeting of the Nickerson USD 309 School Board begins at 7 p.m. at Reno Valley Middle School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will meet on Monday to discuss whether to extend the Christmas break by three days.Currently, the break is to run from Dec. 24 through Jan. 3. Under the proposal, the break would start Monday, Dec. 21, adding three days. Any snow days would then be remote learning days.&nbsp;Also Monday, the board will go over restrictions for winter sports activities. The restrictions would be much the same as they are for fall sports. No spectators would be allowed in middle school activities and all high school events would provide two tickets per athlete. There would be no pep band, no concession stands and no Panther Pride gear for sale. All facilities would be available for youth activities, but not for adults.&nbsp;Monday’s meeting of the Nickerson USD 309 School Board begins at 7 p.m. at Reno Valley Middle School.

USD 309 to consider revised Christmas break


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Salvation Army will have its Kettle Kick Off on Monday.

"On Monday at noon in front of the Sleep Shoppe, we'll be doing our kettle kick off," said Paul James with the Salvation Army. "We'll announce our goal and just kind of encourage individuals to sign up to volunteer to ring bells. This year, we're trying to practice social distancing and wearing masks, just to keep everyone safe while we're doing it."

A couple of downtown businesses are competing for donations this year with the kettles coming out at the traditional start of the Christmas season.

"This year, starting Plaid Friday and then we'll have Small Business Saturday and every Saturday until Christmas," said the Toy Depot's Mark Buckley. "Then, I talked to my good friend Kevin Rule and he's also going to do it at the Sleep Shoppe, we're going to have a little competition between us to see who can, hopefully, raise the most money."

If you're nervous about donating in an actual kettle due to COVID-19, there will be a virtual kettle at hutchtoydepot.com where you can donate. 

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Salvation Army will have its Kettle Kick Off on Monday."On Monday at noon in front of the Sleep Shoppe, we'll be doing our kettle kick off," said Paul James with the Salvation Army. "We'll announce our goal and just kind of encourage individuals to sign up to volunteer to ring bells. This year, we're trying to practice social distancing and wearing masks, just to keep everyone safe while we're doing it."A couple of downtown businesses are competing for donations this year with the kettles coming out at the traditional start of the Christmas season."This year, starting Plaid Friday and then we'll have Small Business Saturday and every Saturday until Christmas," said the Toy Depot's Mark Buckley. "Then, I talked to my good friend Kevin Rule and he's also going to do it at the Sleep Shoppe, we're going to have a little competition between us to see who can, hopefully, raise the most money."If you're nervous about donating in an actual kettle due to COVID-19, there will be a virtual kettle at hutchtoydepot.com where you can donate.

Salvation Army Kettle Kick Off Monday

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board will hold a special meeting on Monday.

The board will go over an updated version of its school calendar before going into executive session regarding real estate.

The board is expected to take action on the matter after the executive session.

Monday's meeting begins at noon and will be online only on Zoom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board will hold a special meeting on Monday.The board will go over an updated version of its school calendar before going into executive session regarding real estate.The board is expected to take action on the matter after the executive session.Monday's meeting begins at noon and will be online only on Zoom.

USD 313 to hold special meeting Monday afternoon

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners have a light agenda for Tuesday.&nbsp;

The board will go over a request from IdeaTek to install wireless equipment atop the water tower at The Highlands. It’s one of several leases the Buhler IT company has been requesting over the past several weeks to broaden its reach and service.&nbsp;

The board will also give reports and get the latest update regarding the pandemic from Emergency Management and the Health Department.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605300787218.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners have a light agenda for Tuesday.&nbsp;The board will go over a request from IdeaTek to install wireless equipment atop the water tower at The Highlands. It’s one of several leases the Buhler IT company has been requesting over the past several weeks to broaden its reach and service.&nbsp;The board will also give reports and get the latest update regarding the pandemic from Emergency Management and the Health Department.&nbsp;Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Light agenda for County Commission Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Economic Recovery Taskforce (RCERT) met earlier this week with health officials to discuss the alarming number of positive COVID-19 cases in the community. The task force discussed measures to stem the rising cases.&nbsp;

The Chamber of Commerce says many of its members are being impacted from high absenteeism because of quarantines and positive COVID-19 cases, including the area's healthcare system.&nbsp;

In an effort to keep businesses and the education system open, the task force overwhelmingly expressed that more community action is needed to slow the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

As a result of the RCERT meeting, a petition was organized by local community members to encourage Reno County commissioners to take further action in the interest of the community's well-being.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The intent of these measures is to encourage individual and collective action to slow the spread so that the economy can remain open safely.

The petition asks for mandatory mask wearing and to place further restrictions on gathering sizes. The Chamber also asks that residents continue working from home, holding meetings online whenever possible, and supporting local businesses while taking steps to protect others. And, as always during the pandemic, do all you can to keep yourself healthy and practice good hygiene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Economic Recovery Taskforce (RCERT) met earlier this week with health officials to discuss the alarming number of positive COVID-19 cases in the community. The task force discussed measures to stem the rising cases.&nbsp;The Chamber of Commerce says many of its members are being impacted from high absenteeism because of quarantines and positive COVID-19 cases, including the area's healthcare system.&nbsp;In an effort to keep businesses and the education system open, the task force overwhelmingly expressed that more community action is needed to slow the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;As a result of the RCERT meeting, a petition was organized by local community members to encourage Reno County commissioners to take further action in the interest of the community's well-being.&nbsp;&nbsp;The intent of these measures is to encourage individual and collective action to slow the spread so that the economy can remain open safely.The petition asks for mandatory mask wearing and to place further restrictions on gathering sizes. The Chamber also asks that residents continue working from home, holding meetings online whenever possible, and supporting local businesses while taking steps to protect others. And, as always during the pandemic, do all you can to keep yourself healthy and practice good hygiene.

Chamber presents petition asking for action to curb pandemic

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Reno County Health Department confirms two more local residents with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 have died. This brings the Reno County death toll to thirty cumulatively since the beginning of the pandemic.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Reno County Health Department confirms two more local residents with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 have died. This brings the Reno County death toll to thirty cumulatively since the beginning of the pandemic.Out of respect for the families, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about these individuals.Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

Thirty now dead according to COVID-19 dashboard


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County overall case count is at 886 as of Friday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 28.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 299 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 45 active cases, but has been responsible for 7 deaths. There are 38 active clusters in the county.

There are 624 cases in the community at large.

Twenty-eight people are in the hospital. One hundred forty total have been hospitalized. Fifty-six have been admitted to the ICU and 16 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 15.63%, with the overall positive test rate at 22.95%. 22.72% of the population has been tested.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County overall case count is at 886 as of Friday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 28.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 299 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 45 active cases, but has been responsible for 7 deaths. There are 38 active clusters in the county.There are 624 cases in the community at large.Twenty-eight people are in the hospital. One hundred forty total have been hospitalized. Fifty-six have been admitted to the ICU and 16 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 15.63%, with the overall positive test rate at 22.95%. 22.72% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Tuesday the 17th at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Case count at 886, with 624 in community as of Friday evening


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Representative Jason Probst had a consistent message for his supporters throughout what was ultimately a successful re-election campaign in House District 102, that wasn't decided until the canvass was complete on Thursday.

"Every vote matters, every vote counts," Probst said. "That was the message that I talked to a lot of people about. We had historically high turnout in this election, but in a lot of elections, we have pretty poor turnout and part of that is because people, they think nationally and they don't think locally."

Probst realizes that nearly half of those who voted didn't vote for him.

"A race this close is an opportunity to pause and reflect on how the race went and what you're hearing from the district," Probst said. "I think that, in large part, it mirrors the division in the country. I think the President was successful in animating a lot of voters to vote straight ticket and I think that is part of what caused this, but I do think that there's good reason to think about this and say, how do we start to bring people, different coalitions, together?"

Probst would like to see policy discussions be more civil now that we're past the election process.

"The rhetoric has to be brought down a couple of notches," Probst said. "We have to stop talking like we hate each other, particularly in a community this size. The rhetoric cannot be, there's us and there's them, because we all have to share this community together."

The legislature is due to gavel in after the new year.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Representative Jason Probst had a consistent message for his supporters throughout what was ultimately a successful re-election campaign in House District 102, that wasn't decided until the canvass was complete on Thursday."Every vote matters, every vote counts," Probst said. "That was the message that I talked to a lot of people about. We had historically high turnout in this election, but in a lot of elections, we have pretty poor turnout and part of that is because people, they think nationally and they don't think locally."Probst realizes that nearly half of those who voted didn't vote for him."A race this close is an opportunity to pause and reflect on how the race went and what you're hearing from the district," Probst said. "I think that, in large part, it mirrors the division in the country. I think the President was successful in animating a lot of voters to vote straight ticket and I think that is part of what caused this, but I do think that there's good reason to think about this and say, how do we start to bring people, different coalitions, together?"Probst would like to see policy discussions be more civil now that we're past the election process."The rhetoric has to be brought down a couple of notches," Probst said. "We have to stop talking like we hate each other, particularly in a community this size. The rhetoric cannot be, there's us and there's them, because we all have to share this community together."The legislature is due to gavel in after the new year.

Probst: Every vote matters, every vote counts

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has a new Health Department director. The county announced Friday afternoon that Karla Nichols has been named to the position and will start her duties Nov. 30.&nbsp;

Nichols will fill the role vacated by Nick Baldetti, who left in August for a position at McPherson College. Health Department assistant directors Karen Hammersmith and Megan Gottschalk-Hammersmith have been filling in as co-directors for the past three months.

Nichols is an Andale High graduate and has a master’s in healthcare administration from the University of Kansas. She has held leadership roles at Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital in Ulysses, Kansas, as well as Kansas Joint and Spine Specialists. Nichols was clinic administrator for Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital and managed the operations, human resource functions, and risk management for the rural hospital-clinic system. Nichols lives near Pretty Prairie with her husband, Scott, and has two adult children.

Nichols will oversee the operations of the Reno County Health Department through the development of policies, setting and developing goals, managing resources, and obtaining funding through various state and federal grants. This position also serves as a bridge in describing public health philosophy and practice to elected officials and community partners.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has a new Health Department director. The county announced Friday afternoon that Karla Nichols has been named to the position and will start her duties Nov. 30.&nbsp;Nichols will fill the role vacated by Nick Baldetti, who left in August for a position at McPherson College. Health Department assistant directors Karen Hammersmith and Megan Gottschalk-Hammersmith have been filling in as co-directors for the past three months.Nichols is an Andale High graduate and has a master’s in healthcare administration from the University of Kansas. She has held leadership roles at Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital in Ulysses, Kansas, as well as Kansas Joint and Spine Specialists. Nichols was clinic administrator for Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital and managed the operations, human resource functions, and risk management for the rural hospital-clinic system. Nichols lives near Pretty Prairie with her husband, Scott, and has two adult children.Nichols will oversee the operations of the Reno County Health Department through the development of policies, setting and developing goals, managing resources, and obtaining funding through various state and federal grants. This position also serves as a bridge in describing public health philosophy and practice to elected officials and community partners.

Karla Nichols named Health Department director

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with donor services regional executive for Kansas Red Cross Michelle Jantz.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: American Red Cross executive Michelle Jantz" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/qr2dp-f21d6c?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with donor services regional executive for Kansas Red Cross Michelle Jantz.

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