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>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <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.

🎤Forward Ever: American Red Cross executive Michelle Jantz

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emanuel Lutheran Church will host another
TEFAP commodity distribution on Sunday.

Distribution will run from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the
Dillon Living Center at 1901 E 23rd.

The program is for low-income people of all ages and no
registration is necessary. All commodities are served on a first come first
served basis.

Those who drive to the distribution are asked to line up
single file and be courteous of each other. Because of the pandemic this will
be drive up service only and the building will be closed.

No paper work is necessary and you will only be able to pick
up a box for yourself.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Emanuel Lutheran Church will host another
TEFAP commodity distribution on Sunday.Distribution will run from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the
Dillon Living Center at 1901 E 23rd.The program is for low-income people of all ages and no
registration is necessary. All commodities are served on a first come first
served basis.Those who drive to the distribution are asked to line up
single file and be courteous of each other. Because of the pandemic this will
be drive up service only and the building will be closed.No paper work is necessary and you will only be able to pick
up a box for yourself.

TEFAP distribution is Sunday in Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON
Kan. — The cold weather Friday morning certainly reminds you that fall is here. Saturday is the opening of pheasant and quail season in Kansas.

Years of dry
weather hurt the upland hunting in Kansas but things have started to improve, and that includes Central Kansas. Although the numbers are expected to be down
slightly this year from last, the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and
Tourism expects pockets of good hunting in central and southcentral Kansas.

Northwest
and north-central Kansas should have the state’s best pheasant numbers this
season. There, populations are similar to last season when Kansas ranked second
in the nation for quality pheasant hunting. Though, hunters should note that
some hunting spots may be more fragmented than usual because of summer rains.

Data
suggests Kansas might again have one of the nation’s best bobwhite quail
harvests this season, with dense populations of quail in central Kansas.

Numbers look
especially promising in much of south-central Kansas, too. Southwest Kansas
could have some good pockets of birds.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON
Kan. — The cold weather Friday morning certainly reminds you that fall is here. Saturday is the opening of pheasant and quail season in Kansas.Years of dry
weather hurt the upland hunting in Kansas but things have started to improve, and that includes Central Kansas. Although the numbers are expected to be down
slightly this year from last, the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and
Tourism expects pockets of good hunting in central and southcentral Kansas.Northwest
and north-central Kansas should have the state’s best pheasant numbers this
season. There, populations are similar to last season when Kansas ranked second
in the nation for quality pheasant hunting. Though, hunters should note that
some hunting spots may be more fragmented than usual because of summer rains.Data
suggests Kansas might again have one of the nation’s best bobwhite quail
harvests this season, with dense populations of quail in central Kansas.Numbers look
especially promising in much of south-central Kansas, too. Southwest Kansas
could have some good pockets of birds.

Pheasant and quail season opens Saturday

Record number needing assistance, you can help Project Concern


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Beginning Friday, November 20, through Sunday, Nov 29, 2020 Hutchinson Police Department will join many other law enforcement agencies across the state, including the Kansas Highway Patrol, in the Kansas Thanksgiving Safe Arrival traffic enforcement campaign. A grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) will support overtime enforcement efforts. While all Kansas Traffic Laws will be enforced, this extra provision will be aggressively targeting and removing impaired drivers from our roads.

According to KDOT, the day before Thanksgiving sees more impairment-related crashes than any other day of the year. Those who choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, are a danger to all they share the road with–their passengers, other motorists and their passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Impaired driving crashes tend to be more severe. On average, across Kansas, three persons are injured every day, and one person is killed every four days in alcohol/drug-related crashes. Vehicle occupants in alcohol- or other drug-related crashes are over 2 ½ times more likely to be injured or killed than those involved in crashes where alcohol or other drugs were not a factor.

Each week across Kansas, over 250 drivers are arrested for choosing to drive impaired (Driving Under the Influence). A DUI conviction will result in jail time, the suspension or revocation of driver’s license, a fine of $500 to $2,500, participation in an alcohol or other drug treatment program and, where alcohol is cited as a contributing factor, the purchase and installation of an ignition interlock device by the offender. This device prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is present in the driver’s breath. All of this is in addition to thousands of dollars more for bail, court costs, and attorney fees.

According to Lieutenant Michael Collins, “Keep in mind that if you are going to be drinking – any amount at all– don’t even consider driving home. Arrange to ride with a non-drinking acquaintance BEFORE you go out.”

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or both is a choice YOU make. Make the right choice. On the drive to zero, YOU are in the driver’s seat.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Beginning Friday, November 20, through Sunday, Nov 29, 2020 Hutchinson Police Department will join many other law enforcement agencies across the state, including the Kansas Highway Patrol, in the Kansas Thanksgiving Safe Arrival traffic enforcement campaign. A grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) will support overtime enforcement efforts. While all Kansas Traffic Laws will be enforced, this extra provision will be aggressively targeting and removing impaired drivers from our roads.According to KDOT, the day before Thanksgiving sees more impairment-related crashes than any other day of the year. Those who choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, are a danger to all they share the road with–their passengers, other motorists and their passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Impaired driving crashes tend to be more severe. On average, across Kansas, three persons are injured every day, and one person is killed every four days in alcohol/drug-related crashes. Vehicle occupants in alcohol- or other drug-related crashes are over 2 ½ times more likely to be injured or killed than those involved in crashes where alcohol or other drugs were not a factor.Each week across Kansas, over 250 drivers are arrested for choosing to drive impaired (Driving Under the Influence). A DUI conviction will result in jail time, the suspension or revocation of driver’s license, a fine of $500 to $2,500, participation in an alcohol or other drug treatment program and, where alcohol is cited as a contributing factor, the purchase and installation of an ignition interlock device by the offender. This device prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is present in the driver’s breath. All of this is in addition to thousands of dollars more for bail, court costs, and attorney fees.According to Lieutenant Michael Collins, “Keep in mind that if you are going to be drinking – any amount at all– don’t even consider driving home. Arrange to ride with a non-drinking acquaintance BEFORE you go out.”Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or both is a choice YOU make. Make the right choice. On the drive to zero, YOU are in the driver’s seat.

Special enforcement campaign to start November 20


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Whether or not the Board of County Commissioners chooses to make a policy change regarding gathering size shouldn't make a difference in how residents look at the upcoming holidays.

"Keep your gatherings to less than ten people," said Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "If that means celebrating in very small areas, that's what we need to do."

Hammersmith has talked to her own family about it.

"My mother's 76 years old," Hammersmith said. "She does not need to be around four different households, coming from different areas, kids from colleges coming home. We need to protect her. We've got a newborn baby in the family. We need to protect that baby. These are the types of things I know that families are already thinking about, but we need to be intentional of how we decide to do those things."

Even though the point of holiday gatherings is spending extended time together, realize the risk you are choosing to take.

"You're all sitting in the living room area, or even if you have a community room, you know, you're intermingling that entire time," Hammersmith said. "That's just not safe this year. Everybody is a host, so until we get that vaccine, we're not going to be able to slow the spread. You really need to be intentionally think about it, whether we have a mandate in place or not."

As of Friday morning, there were 596 known active cases in Reno County. The county had 2,279 cases overall on Halloween and 3,166 cases as of November 12, which means 28% of the people who have contracted the virus and tested positive in Reno County since the beginning of the pandemic have received their result in the last two weeks.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Whether or not the Board of County Commissioners chooses to make a policy change regarding gathering size shouldn't make a difference in how residents look at the upcoming holidays."Keep your gatherings to less than ten people," said Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "If that means celebrating in very small areas, that's what we need to do."Hammersmith has talked to her own family about it."My mother's 76 years old," Hammersmith said. "She does not need to be around four different households, coming from different areas, kids from colleges coming home. We need to protect her. We've got a newborn baby in the family. We need to protect that baby. These are the types of things I know that families are already thinking about, but we need to be intentional of how we decide to do those things."Even though the point of holiday gatherings is spending extended time together, realize the risk you are choosing to take."You're all sitting in the living room area, or even if you have a community room, you know, you're intermingling that entire time," Hammersmith said. "That's just not safe this year. Everybody is a host, so until we get that vaccine, we're not going to be able to slow the spread. You really need to be intentionally think about it, whether we have a mandate in place or not."As of Friday morning, there were 596 known active cases in Reno County. The county had 2,279 cases overall on Halloween and 3,166 cases as of November 12, which means 28% of the people who have contracted the virus and tested positive in Reno County since the beginning of the pandemic have received their result in the last two weeks.

Hammersmith: Families need to be intentional about holiday gatherings

NICKERSON,
Kan. — With a large number of teachers either testing positive for COVID or
needing to quarantine the Nickerson School District has put more than 70 South
Hutchinson Elementary School students into quarantine.

Superintendent
Dawn Johnson said that 16 teachers are out of school and with a shortage of
substitutes, the decision has been made to close the school building until after
Thanksgiving and go to full remote learning.

Johnson says
the middle school and high school are already in full remote learning with
small groups allowed to attend vocational classes in person. Nickerson
Elementary is already a small school with small classes so they are still in
full in person learning.

Johnson says
they hope to reopen the South Hutchinson Elementary School at least on a
limited basis by November 30.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON,
Kan. — With a large number of teachers either testing positive for COVID or
needing to quarantine the Nickerson School District has put more than 70 South
Hutchinson Elementary School students into quarantine.Superintendent
Dawn Johnson said that 16 teachers are out of school and with a shortage of
substitutes, the decision has been made to close the school building until after
Thanksgiving and go to full remote learning.Johnson says
the middle school and high school are already in full remote learning with
small groups allowed to attend vocational classes in person. Nickerson
Elementary is already a small school with small classes so they are still in
full in person learning.Johnson says
they hope to reopen the South Hutchinson Elementary School at least on a
limited basis by November 30.

South Hutch Elementary to go to full remote learning

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

The Delos V. Smith Senior Citizen Center is closed until after Thanksgiving.

Lisa Radi, administrative director said the closure is due to the high number of COVID cases in Reno County.

The center will update its website, Facebook page and phone announcements when they decide on a reopening date.

"Please stay safe and wear your masks," Radi said. "Let's all work together to bring the numbers down in Reno County, so we can see each other soon."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605269494476.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Delos V. Smith Senior Citizen Center is closed until after Thanksgiving.Lisa Radi, administrative director said the closure is due to the high number of COVID cases in Reno County.The center will update its website, Facebook page and phone announcements when they decide on a reopening date."Please stay safe and wear your masks," Radi said. "Let's all work together to bring the numbers down in Reno County, so we can see each other soon."

Delos V. Smith Senior Citizen Center closed due to COVID


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County overall case count is at 792 as of Thursday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 27.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 287 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 43 active cases, but has been responsible for 6 deaths. There are 37 active clusters in the county.

There are 543 cases in the community at large.

Twenty-seven people are in the hospital. One hundred thirty-eight 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 22.49%. 22.40% 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.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County overall case count is at 792 as of Thursday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 27.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 287 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 43 active cases, but has been responsible for 6 deaths. There are 37 active clusters in the county.There are 543 cases in the community at large.Twenty-seven people are in the hospital. One hundred thirty-eight 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 22.49%. 22.40% 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 792, with 543 in community as of Thursday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Jason Probst has won re-election to the Kansas House 102 seat after a canvass of votes on Thursday.

Probst held a three-vote lead over Republican John Whitesel at the end of the count on election night. A hand count of several outstanding votes that were unable to be processed by the machine and a handful of mail-in ballots that came in legally between election day and the following Friday increased the incumbent's lead to 22 votes, 3,261 to 3,239.

After the canvass, the count was Probst 3,368 to Whitesel’s 3,337. It was the only race in the county that the canvass could have reversed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600960659626.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Jason Probst has won re-election to the Kansas House 102 seat after a canvass of votes on Thursday.Probst held a three-vote lead over Republican John Whitesel at the end of the count on election night. A hand count of several outstanding votes that were unable to be processed by the machine and a handful of mail-in ballots that came in legally between election day and the following Friday increased the incumbent's lead to 22 votes, 3,261 to 3,239.After the canvass, the count was Probst 3,368 to Whitesel’s 3,337. It was the only race in the county that the canvass could have reversed.

Probst wins 102 seat

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man whose short sentence was overturned by the Court of Appeals has been resentenced to just over 10 years in prison.

Taylor Lukone was resentenced Thursday in Reno County District Court. Lukone was given the two-year sentence for reckless second-degree murder in the death of 51-year-old Jose Lopez. Lukone rammed Lopez, who was on a bicycle, with his car. The incident happened following a confrontation between the two parties.&nbsp;

After the Court of Appeals said the sentence from Judge Trish Rose was outside the framework of the legal standards and statutory limitations, and constituted an abuse of discretion, the case went to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court refused to hear the case and sent it back to Rose for resentencing

This time around there was little argument from either party. Rose sentenced Lukone on the murder count to 123 months. Two other counts will run concurrent to the murder count. Lukone will also have to pay $25,000 in restitution.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603362145099.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man whose short sentence was overturned by the Court of Appeals has been resentenced to just over 10 years in prison.Taylor Lukone was resentenced Thursday in Reno County District Court. Lukone was given the two-year sentence for reckless second-degree murder in the death of 51-year-old Jose Lopez. Lukone rammed Lopez, who was on a bicycle, with his car. The incident happened following a confrontation between the two parties.&nbsp;After the Court of Appeals said the sentence from Judge Trish Rose was outside the framework of the legal standards and statutory limitations, and constituted an abuse of discretion, the case went to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court refused to hear the case and sent it back to Rose for resentencingThis time around there was little argument from either party. Rose sentenced Lukone on the murder count to 123 months. Two other counts will run concurrent to the murder count. Lukone will also have to pay $25,000 in restitution.

Lukone handed 10-year term in resentencing


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The staffing situation at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center regarding COVID patients is critical.

"You know, our fantastic floor nurses right now are taking six to seven COVID patients a piece," said Chuck Welch with the hospital. "They just cannot keep doing that. Our critical care nurses are two really sick patients to every nurse and until we stop that, we are going to have to continue to get tougher and tougher with the restrictions until we can get this under control. We're just going to wear our people out."

Exhaustion isn't good for the immune systems of those workers, either, but at least right now, they're keeping infection within the hospital at bay.

"What we are seeing upstream is more and more positive patients," Welch said. "We've got to try and keep that out of the hospital. We have, from day one, tried to create a COVID safe environment. To my knowledge, we have not had any nosocomial, or hospital acquired, COVID patients and we want to keep it that way."

To reiterate the theme, though, Welch notes that stopping the spread is in the community's hands, even though this is a wave they are having to deal with.

"The adherence to wearing a mask and doing the simple things to keep this virus at bay are not being complied with either," Welch said. "I have said from the beginning, this will come in waves. Labor Day, people coming together, they spread the virus, there's an incubation period and then a wave of sick people come. That's the way it's going to go, so when you see those ebbs and flows in positivity rates in the community, it's just like ripples or waves on a lake."

Early this week, more than two-thirds of the patients in the hospital were COVID-19 positive patients.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The staffing situation at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center regarding COVID patients is critical."You know, our fantastic floor nurses right now are taking six to seven COVID patients a piece," said Chuck Welch with the hospital. "They just cannot keep doing that. Our critical care nurses are two really sick patients to every nurse and until we stop that, we are going to have to continue to get tougher and tougher with the restrictions until we can get this under control. We're just going to wear our people out."Exhaustion isn't good for the immune systems of those workers, either, but at least right now, they're keeping infection within the hospital at bay."What we are seeing upstream is more and more positive patients," Welch said. "We've got to try and keep that out of the hospital. We have, from day one, tried to create a COVID safe environment. To my knowledge, we have not had any nosocomial, or hospital acquired, COVID patients and we want to keep it that way."To reiterate the theme, though, Welch notes that stopping the spread is in the community's hands, even though this is a wave they are having to deal with."The adherence to wearing a mask and doing the simple things to keep this virus at bay are not being complied with either," Welch said. "I have said from the beginning, this will come in waves. Labor Day, people coming together, they spread the virus, there's an incubation period and then a wave of sick people come. That's the way it's going to go, so when you see those ebbs and flows in positivity rates in the community, it's just like ripples or waves on a lake."Early this week, more than two-thirds of the patients in the hospital were COVID-19 positive patients.

Welch: Staffing now stretched both on COVID floor and in ICU


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The following Hutch Rec facilities will be temporarily closed and activities temporarily suspended effective Nov. 13. This is in an effort to stem the rising cases of COVID-19 in our community and to stop the subsequent damage to other essential services in our community, including healthcare and education, in addition to keeping our small businesses open.

Hutch Rec staff will re-evaluate the community COVID-19 situation the week of Thanksgiving to determine re-opening on Nov. 30.

Specific facility closures and activities include:

Senior Center at Elmdale Park, 400 E. Ave. E

Hutchinson Sports Arena, 13th&nbsp;&amp; Sesher Plaza

Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th&nbsp;Ave

Ongoing details and updates will be shared with media outlets, on hutchrec.com, and on our social media outlets. Follow Hutch Rec on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our facilities of Dillon Nature Center, Hutchinson Sports Arena, and the Senior Center at Elmdale Park group page.

This decision comes based on the most recent recommendations from the Reno County Health Department (RCHD), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in order to minimize the threat of COVID-19 for communities.

The mission of Hutch Rec is to provide our community with lifelong wellness, cultural, natural, and recreational opportunities that promote healthy minds and bodies through innovative programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and protected open spaces. It is our goal to be of community mindset during this time of COVD-19.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The following Hutch Rec facilities will be temporarily closed and activities temporarily suspended effective Nov. 13. This is in an effort to stem the rising cases of COVID-19 in our community and to stop the subsequent damage to other essential services in our community, including healthcare and education, in addition to keeping our small businesses open.Hutch Rec staff will re-evaluate the community COVID-19 situation the week of Thanksgiving to determine re-opening on Nov. 30.Specific facility closures and activities include:Senior Center at Elmdale Park, 400 E. Ave. E<ul>
 <li>Closed to the public until further notice, including ongoing activities and programs.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Senior Center members will still have the opportunity to order, purchase, and pick up lunches through the curbside carryout program, held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Orders must be placed by noon the previous day by calling (620) 663-2811.</li>
 </ul>Hutchinson Sports Arena, 13th&nbsp;&amp; Sesher Plaza<ul>
 <li>Notable programs and activities are temporarily suspended, including:Community walking hoursMINDBODY fitness classesYouth Lil Dribblers basketballAdult Volleyball LeaguesOpen gym, including basketball shoot-around, pickleball, and practices</li><li>Community walking hours</li><li>MINDBODY fitness classes</li><li>Youth Lil Dribblers basketball</li><li>Adult Volleyball Leagues</li><li>Open gym, including basketball shoot-around, pickleball, and practices</li>
 </ul>Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st<ul>
 <li>Facility remains open to the public during regular business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Masks are required to be worn while inside the facility.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Online registration for activities is also available at hutchrec.com.</li>
 </ul>Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th&nbsp;Ave<ul>
 <li>Trails &amp; grounds are open to the public from dawn to dusk; the Visitor’s Center will remain open to the public during regular business hours. Masks are required to be worn while inside the Visitor’s Center.</li><li>All scheduled activities are temporarily suspended at this time.</li>
 </ul>Ongoing details and updates will be shared with media outlets, on hutchrec.com, and on our social media outlets. Follow Hutch Rec on Facebook and Instagram, as well as our facilities of Dillon Nature Center, Hutchinson Sports Arena, and the Senior Center at Elmdale Park group page.This decision comes based on the most recent recommendations from the Reno County Health Department (RCHD), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in order to minimize the threat of COVID-19 for communities.The mission of Hutch Rec is to provide our community with lifelong wellness, cultural, natural, and recreational opportunities that promote healthy minds and bodies through innovative programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and protected open spaces. It is our goal to be of community mindset during this time of COVD-19.

Hutch Rec announces temporary closure of facilities and suspension of programs

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven School Board heard from parents and
athletes about their desire to restart the wrestling program at the school
during Monday's regular meeting.

The parents approached the board last month asking about
adding the sport at the high school.&nbsp;
Athletic Director Jared Kirkpatrick told the board the starting the
program would cost the district about $34,000 with an annual cost of $12,000.


One obstacle for the program would be finding a location to practice. One
option is to use the old weight room in the basement of the high school. That area has some water issues that would need to be addressed first. Another option
discussed is to use the gym at Yoder Charter School.

Also on Monday, the Board discussed renovations to the auditorium
at the high school. The district wanted to do them last year but could not get
a suitable bid for the work. The estimated cost of the project would be about
$300,000 and could include new seats, new flooring, renovated walls,
lighting and a new sound system. Superintendent Clark Wedel says they have had
discussions with contractors and hope to be able to get the project moving
forward. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583765969377.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven School Board heard from parents and
athletes about their desire to restart the wrestling program at the school
during Monday's regular meeting.The parents approached the board last month asking about
adding the sport at the high school.&nbsp;
Athletic Director Jared Kirkpatrick told the board the starting the
program would cost the district about $34,000 with an annual cost of $12,000.
One obstacle for the program would be finding a location to practice. One
option is to use the old weight room in the basement of the high school. That area has some water issues that would need to be addressed first. Another option
discussed is to use the gym at Yoder Charter School.Also on Monday, the Board discussed renovations to the auditorium
at the high school. The district wanted to do them last year but could not get
a suitable bid for the work. The estimated cost of the project would be about
$300,000 and could include new seats, new flooring, renovated walls,
lighting and a new sound system. Superintendent Clark Wedel says they have had
discussions with contractors and hope to be able to get the project moving
forward.

USD 312 Board discusses wrestling and auditorium renovations

Release from Reno County Health Department


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department confirms three new deaths of local residents with laboratory confirmed COVID-19. This brings the Reno County death toll to twenty-seven (27).

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>Release from Reno County Health Department
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department confirms three new deaths of local residents with laboratory confirmed COVID-19. This brings the Reno County death toll to twenty-seven (27).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.

Reno County COVID-19 deaths now at 27

Release from Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
COVID-19 has reached a critical level in Reno County. In early November, a group of local medical professionals warned of the severity of what our community is facing. Since then numbers have continued to climb, with no sign of decreasing. 

The Average COVID census in the hospital has reached between 35 to more than 40 per day. The hospital created a 3rd COVID unit on 3300. The hospital is also reducing the number of elective procedures done each day so staff can be reassigned to help throughout the hospital. Early this week, more than two-thirds of the patients in the hospital were COVID-19 positive patients.

Because of the high numbers of COVID patients, the visitation policy has been changed, effective immediately. 

Effective Immediately:  Due to the increased numbers of COVID patients and the commitment to provide a COVID safe environment for our Patients, Staff and Authorized Visitors, we are adjusting our Visitation Policy / Guidelines.

    • No Visitors are allowed for COVID positive patients. This will include patients admitted to ICU, and the 4400 and 3300 Medical COVID units. 

        ◦ Family members are welcome to call and video chat or talk as patient conditions allow. 

        ◦ The hospital requests that one designated family member call and receive updates about the patient. This helps the hospital provide consistent updates and information regarding the patient’s condition.

    • Labor and Delivery will allow One Support Person to accompany all delivering patients.

    • Pediatric patients can have Both Parents in the room, whether the child is being treated   in the ED or on the Pediatric Unit.

    • Telemetry and the 5100 Medical/Surgical unit and 4100 Inpatient Rehab can have One Visitor Per Day. This assigned visitor can no longer be changed out throughout the day. 

    • ED is only allowing visitors on a Case-by-Case basis. Common exceptions could be for someone in critical condition or a pediatric patient. The ED will work diligently to communicate updates and the plan of care with the family. When the patient is brought in, family can leave one contact number with the screening table outside ED. This number will be used to contact family for updates or get additional information as needed.

    • No Visitors allowed on Behavioral Health

    • For Outpatient Appointments like Physician office visits, Wound Care, Radiology, or Therapy, patients may bring 1 visitor if needed for care or support.

    • No one under 18 will be allowed to visit.

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center understands the value of family support for patients however, the volume of positive COVID patients in the community is so high, changes must be made to protect patients, physicians and staff.

The best way to help support your loved ones and the healthcare workers who are diligently caring for them is to wear your masks, practice good hand hygiene, exercise social distancing, don’t participate in groups larger than 10 people and support guidelines endorsed by the Reno County Health Department, Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Centers for Disease Control.

As soon as the numbers of positive patients in the community and the hospital decrease, the hospital will reevaluate the visitation policies. 

No one under 18 will be allowed to visit.

1 single, designated visitor allowed per day

Visitors allowed on case-by-case basis depending on patient condition

    • Procedures like Surgery or Cath Lab

    • End of life care will have exceptions so family can be with the patient through that difficult time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583428390224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Hutchinson Regional Healthcare SystemHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
COVID-19 has reached a critical level in Reno County. In early November, a group of local medical professionals warned of the severity of what our community is facing. Since then numbers have continued to climb, with no sign of decreasing. The Average COVID census in the hospital has reached between 35 to more than 40 per day. The hospital created a 3rd COVID unit on 3300. The hospital is also reducing the number of elective procedures done each day so staff can be reassigned to help throughout the hospital. Early this week, more than two-thirds of the patients in the hospital were COVID-19 positive patients.Because of the high numbers of COVID patients, the visitation policy has been changed, effective immediately. Effective Immediately: Due to the increased numbers of COVID patients and the commitment to provide a COVID safe environment for our Patients, Staff and Authorized Visitors, we are adjusting our Visitation Policy / Guidelines. • No Visitors are allowed for COVID positive patients. This will include patients admitted to ICU, and the 4400 and 3300 Medical COVID units. ◦ Family members are welcome to call and video chat or talk as patient conditions allow. ◦ The hospital requests that one designated family member call and receive updates about the patient. This helps the hospital provide consistent updates and information regarding the patient’s condition. • Labor and Delivery will allow One Support Person to accompany all delivering patients. • Pediatric patients can have Both Parents in the room, whether the child is being treated in the ED or on the Pediatric Unit. • Telemetry and the 5100 Medical/Surgical unit and 4100 Inpatient Rehab can have One Visitor Per Day. This assigned visitor can no longer be changed out throughout the day. • ED is only allowing visitors on a Case-by-Case basis. Common exceptions could be for someone in critical condition or a pediatric patient. The ED will work diligently to communicate updates and the plan of care with the family. When the patient is brought in, family can leave one contact number with the screening table outside ED. This number will be used to contact family for updates or get additional information as needed. • No Visitors allowed on Behavioral Health • For Outpatient Appointments like Physician office visits, Wound Care, Radiology, or Therapy, patients may bring 1 visitor if needed for care or support. • No one under 18 will be allowed to visit.Hutchinson Regional Medical Center understands the value of family support for patients however, the volume of positive COVID patients in the community is so high, changes must be made to protect patients, physicians and staff.The best way to help support your loved ones and the healthcare workers who are diligently caring for them is to wear your masks, practice good hand hygiene, exercise social distancing, don’t participate in groups larger than 10 people and support guidelines endorsed by the Reno County Health Department, Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Centers for Disease Control.As soon as the numbers of positive patients in the community and the hospital decrease, the hospital will reevaluate the visitation policies. New Visitation Policy11/10/2020No one under 18 will be allowed to visit.No Visitors Allowed • COVID Positive PatientsNo Visitors on Behavioral Health1 single, designated visitor allowed per day • Telemetry and Med/Surg-5100 • Inpatient Rehab-4100 • Pediatrics-4200 • Labor and Delivery-4300Visitors allowed on case-by-case basis depending on patient condition • ED1 visitor allowed for: • Physician appointments • Lab • Radiology • Wound Care • Therapy • Procedures like Surgery or Cath LabExceptions • End of life care will have exceptions so family can be with the patient through that difficult time.

HRMC releases new visitation guidelines

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After implementing a hiring freeze
due to the pandemic, Kansas State University has had a change of heart and will
allow the Reno County Extension Service to find a new Extension Agent.

The extension service has been without an agent since Darren
Busick left the position in February. Not long after Busick left, the university said that
they were implementing a hiring freeze until June of 2021. Since then the
agency has also lost its Family and Consumer Sciences Director and its 4-H
director. Neither of those positions will be replaced before the June 2021
date.

The Extension office says they had 17 applications for the
position and have narrowed it down to two &nbsp;finalists, who will be interviewed on Monday.
The new agent could be in place by the middle of December if all goes as
planned.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587396580203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After implementing a hiring freeze
due to the pandemic, Kansas State University has had a change of heart and will
allow the Reno County Extension Service to find a new Extension Agent.The extension service has been without an agent since Darren
Busick left the position in February. Not long after Busick left, the university said that
they were implementing a hiring freeze until June of 2021. Since then the
agency has also lost its Family and Consumer Sciences Director and its 4-H
director. Neither of those positions will be replaced before the June 2021
date.The Extension office says they had 17 applications for the
position and have narrowed it down to two &nbsp;finalists, who will be interviewed on Monday.
The new agent could be in place by the middle of December if all goes as
planned.

Reno County Extension Service could have new agent by December

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Kansas State Fair Board was in agreement to take two pieces of
legislation to the state that will help the fair gain some financial traction.

Interim GM
Ed Berger wants to send one proposal that would allow the fair to collect more
of the liquor tax it generates from beer and wine sales at the fair. The other
is a request to let the fair tap into its capital funds for operations until
the financial picture of the fair improves. 

The fair has
lost significant revenue due to canceled events including this year’s fair. The
state passed legislation two years ago that allows the fair to keep the sales
tax it generates for fair and non-fair events with that money going into the capital
improvement fund. 

But with the
cancellation of the fair the board is hoping that the state will let them tap
into those funds to keep the daily operations of the fair running. The request
comes at a time when the fair was pushing ahead with plans to make major
renovations to several buildings. How this request will affect those plans
remains to be seen.

Berger says
he will get both pieces of legislation pre-posted so they can make their way
through the legislative process as early as possible.

The Board
also said that they would not pursue a new GM until after the new year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586266027570.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Kansas State Fair Board was in agreement to take two pieces of
legislation to the state that will help the fair gain some financial traction.Interim GM
Ed Berger wants to send one proposal that would allow the fair to collect more
of the liquor tax it generates from beer and wine sales at the fair. The other
is a request to let the fair tap into its capital funds for operations until
the financial picture of the fair improves. The fair has
lost significant revenue due to canceled events including this year’s fair. The
state passed legislation two years ago that allows the fair to keep the sales
tax it generates for fair and non-fair events with that money going into the capital
improvement fund. But with the
cancellation of the fair the board is hoping that the state will let them tap
into those funds to keep the daily operations of the fair running. The request
comes at a time when the fair was pushing ahead with plans to make major
renovations to several buildings. How this request will affect those plans
remains to be seen.Berger says
he will get both pieces of legislation pre-posted so they can make their way
through the legislative process as early as possible.The Board
also said that they would not pursue a new GM until after the new year.

Fair Board approves two legislative proposals


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;If you are going to burn leaves and sticks in the City of Hutchinson, the fire department needs to know about it.

"Any time you want to burn sticks or leaves in your back yard, you always have to call 911 and get a burn permit," said Fire Marshal Tony Arpin. "What that does is that will send a fire truck out to your house and we will make sure that the area you want to burn is safe. We'll give you a burn permit. That way dispatch knows about it and somebody won't call in a false alarm because you're burning sticks in your back yard."

In order to comply with regulations, you'd need a fairly large yard to begin with.

"You can't do it in a roadway," Arpin said. "It has to be in your yard. It has to be 50 feet away from any structure and it can't be during a red flag day. If there's a burn ban, there is absolutely no burning, not even recreational fires.

If you don't follow the regulations, your neighbors can call it in.

"If you don't call ahead, you know, we're going to put your fire out," Arpin said. "We could write you a ticket for having an illegal burn. This is just for stuff on the ground. You're not allowed to burn trash in a barrel in Hutchinson. That hasn't been allowed since the seventies. You can't burn trash. You can only burn sticks and branches."

The pile that you are burning can be no more than three feet in diameter and two feet tall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;If you are going to burn leaves and sticks in the City of Hutchinson, the fire department needs to know about it."Any time you want to burn sticks or leaves in your back yard, you always have to call 911 and get a burn permit," said Fire Marshal Tony Arpin. "What that does is that will send a fire truck out to your house and we will make sure that the area you want to burn is safe. We'll give you a burn permit. That way dispatch knows about it and somebody won't call in a false alarm because you're burning sticks in your back yard."In order to comply with regulations, you'd need a fairly large yard to begin with."You can't do it in a roadway," Arpin said. "It has to be in your yard. It has to be 50 feet away from any structure and it can't be during a red flag day. If there's a burn ban, there is absolutely no burning, not even recreational fires.If you don't follow the regulations, your neighbors can call it in."If you don't call ahead, you know, we're going to put your fire out," Arpin said. "We could write you a ticket for having an illegal burn. This is just for stuff on the ground. You're not allowed to burn trash in a barrel in Hutchinson. That hasn't been allowed since the seventies. You can't burn trash. You can only burn sticks and branches."The pile that you are burning can be no more than three feet in diameter and two feet tall.

Fire marshal outlines leaf burning regulations in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 926 as of Wednesday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 24.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 448 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 38 active cases, but has been responsible for 6 deaths. There are 34 active clusters in the county.

There are 505 cases in the community at large.

Twenty-nine people are in the hospital. One hundred thirty-five 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 14.37%, with the overall positive test rate at 21.91%. 22.16% of the population has been tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 926 as of Wednesday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 24.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 448 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 38 active cases, but has been responsible for 6 deaths. There are 34 active clusters in the county.There are 505 cases in the community at large.Twenty-nine people are in the hospital. One hundred thirty-five 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 14.37%, with the overall positive test rate at 21.91%. 22.16% 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 926, with 505 in community as of Wednesday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department responded to 828 East 2nd Wednesday night on a report of a structure fire. 

When they got there, they found fire coming through the roof of a two-story home.

Two adults and four children escaped the fire. The fire started in the attic space and was contained to the single structure.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605175550799.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department responded to 828 East 2nd Wednesday night on a report of a structure fire. When they got there, they found fire coming through the roof of a two-story home.Two adults and four children escaped the fire. The fire started in the attic space and was contained to the single structure.The fire remains under investigation.

Six people escape Hutchinson house fire Wednesday night

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Health Department Interim Co-Director Megan Hammersmith says Tuesday’s comments made by a member of the County Commission in regard to its dealing with the pandemic will not change the way the department is conducting its COVID response.

“We’re going to stay the course as long as we have support from our Board of Health (County Commission) of which we have support from two of our Board of Health,” Hammersmith said.&nbsp;

“We do need to understand that we have to ensure that we take care of our hospital. And we’re going to take directives from both the health officer and the professionals in our community.”&nbsp;

With the numbers increasing dramatically each week in the area, Hammersmith says it is getting to be more of a challenge to find a balance between keeping the public safe and trying to keep schools and businesses operating.

“It feels as though the numbers are spiraling in such a way that are really out of control,” Hammersmith said. “I do believe we are going to continue to see a surge in our numbers.”

Hammersmith says the cold weather will keep people more confined, which will make spreading the virus easier. Hammersmith says it is no secret that the community is getting tired of the pandemic, but the need to stay the course is there.

“We know that the community is getting tired of it and the message is the same,” Hammersmith said. “Really the narrative right now is to ensure that our hospitals have the capacity to be able to provide service to the people in our community.”&nbsp;

Interim Commissioner Mark Steffen was critical of the Health Department’s dealings with the pandemic and made it known during Tuesday's agenda session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Health Department Interim Co-Director Megan Hammersmith says Tuesday’s comments made by a member of the County Commission in regard to its dealing with the pandemic will not change the way the department is conducting its COVID response.“We’re going to stay the course as long as we have support from our Board of Health (County Commission) of which we have support from two of our Board of Health,” Hammersmith said.&nbsp;“We do need to understand that we have to ensure that we take care of our hospital. And we’re going to take directives from both the health officer and the professionals in our community.”&nbsp;With the numbers increasing dramatically each week in the area, Hammersmith says it is getting to be more of a challenge to find a balance between keeping the public safe and trying to keep schools and businesses operating.“It feels as though the numbers are spiraling in such a way that are really out of control,” Hammersmith said. “I do believe we are going to continue to see a surge in our numbers.”Hammersmith says the cold weather will keep people more confined, which will make spreading the virus easier. Hammersmith says it is no secret that the community is getting tired of the pandemic, but the need to stay the course is there.“We know that the community is getting tired of it and the message is the same,” Hammersmith said. “Really the narrative right now is to ensure that our hospitals have the capacity to be able to provide service to the people in our community.”&nbsp;Interim Commissioner Mark Steffen was critical of the Health Department’s dealings with the pandemic and made it known during Tuesday's agenda session.

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