
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Some Hutchinson firefighters left Wednesday morning to fight a wildland fire in Wyoming.

"Three firefighters and a brush truck from Hutch Fire is heading west," said Chief Steven Beer. "They left literally at 6:00 this morning."

They will be busy after their 10-hour drive to fight the Mullen fire.

"Their first operational period will start tomorrow morning," Beer said. "For the next 14 days in a row, they'll be working 16 to 18 hours a day."

This mutual aid request is part of Hutchinson's relationship with the Kansas Forest Service for fighting wildfires.

"What's nice about this program with the federal government on these wildland fires is that they actually cover our backfill for our positions," Beer said. "They actually pay the guys wages  while they're out there being deployed and they also pay the City of Hutchinson money for the piece of equipment that's being deployed."

Beer reminds Hutchinson residents that over 150 fire units were brought in from all over to defend the city from its wildfire threat in 2017.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Some Hutchinson firefighters left Wednesday morning to fight a wildland fire in Wyoming."Three firefighters and a brush truck from Hutch Fire is heading west," said Chief Steven Beer. "They left literally at 6:00 this morning."They will be busy after their 10-hour drive to fight the Mullen fire."Their first operational period will start tomorrow morning," Beer said. "For the next 14 days in a row, they'll be working 16 to 18 hours a day."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600868394176.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This mutual aid request is part of Hutchinson's relationship with the Kansas Forest Service for fighting wildfires."What's nice about this program with the federal government on these wildland fires is that they actually cover our backfill for our positions," Beer said. "They actually pay the guys wages while they're out there being deployed and they also pay the City of Hutchinson money for the piece of equipment that's being deployed."Beer reminds Hutchinson residents that over 150 fire units were brought in from all over to defend the city from its wildfire threat in 2017.

Three Hutchinson firefighters headed to Wyoming to fight Mullen fire


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has revised its COVID-19 policy for family accompanying patients under treatment in the hospital’s Emergency Department (ED).

All patients being admitted to the ED may be accompanied by a family member or one other designated individual. Please do not bring more than one person with you to the ED, as they will not be allowed inside.

Visitors will be scanned for COVID-19 upon entering the reception area of the ED.

More than 25,000 patients are treated in the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center ED each year.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has revised its COVID-19 policy for family accompanying patients under treatment in the hospital’s Emergency Department (ED).All patients being admitted to the ED may be accompanied by a family member or one other designated individual. Please do not bring more than one person with you to the ED, as they will not be allowed inside.Visitors will be scanned for COVID-19 upon entering the reception area of the ED.More than 25,000 patients are treated in the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center ED each year.

One person can come with emergency patients at HRMC

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Work continues to move south on the third and final phase of the North Main Street project.&nbsp;

Over the next week crews will be&nbsp; removing curb, gutter and sidewalk on the east side of Main Street between 11th and 7th avenues. This means that 8th, 9th and 10th avenues will be closed to the east of Main Street with two-way traffic on Main Street remaining open.

Crews will be finishing and cleaning up on the west side of Main Street, then start construction on the east side of Main Street after the curb, gutter and sidewalk is removed. Intersections on the west side of Main are open and work continues on the crosswalk signal at 9th and Main.

If you have any questions regarding the project, call Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600808696139.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Work continues to move south on the third and final phase of the North Main Street project.&nbsp;Over the next week crews will be&nbsp; removing curb, gutter and sidewalk on the east side of Main Street between 11th and 7th avenues. This means that 8th, 9th and 10th avenues will be closed to the east of Main Street with two-way traffic on Main Street remaining open.Crews will be finishing and cleaning up on the west side of Main Street, then start construction on the east side of Main Street after the curb, gutter and sidewalk is removed. Intersections on the west side of Main are open and work continues on the crosswalk signal at 9th and Main.If you have any questions regarding the project, call Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

Work moving along on Main Street project

WICHITA– A Kansas&nbsp; man pleaded guilty Tuesday to an armed robbery at a convenience store in Newton, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

Jorge Correa, 25, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. In his plea, Correa admitted that on Feb. 4, 2020, he and two co-defendants robbed the EZ Trip at 100 S. Main in Newton.

Correa had a military style rifle. The clerk gave them cash, but Correa demanded more. While the clerk was getting money from her purse, Correa fired several shots that hit the ceiling, aisle displays and an ATM machine.

Both Correa and Montes were armed when they entered the store before 6 a.m. Feb. 4.

Investigators used surveillance footage to identify a license tag number of the getaway vehicle. After a high speed pursuit, the Kansas Highway Patrol arrested the three defendants. Urias was driving. Montes was wearing a red hoodie and sitting in the front passenger seat. Correa was sitting in the back seat with a rifle.

Co-defendant&nbsp;Rico Montes&nbsp;is set for a change of plea hearing Sept. 30. Co-defendant&nbsp;Jeremiah Urias&nbsp;is set for a change of plea hearing Sept. 28.

Correa is set for sentencing Dec. 8. He could face a penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. McAllister commended the FBI, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Newton Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger for their work on the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600809470070.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the crash and arrest on Magnolia in Salina -photo courtesy KHP" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the crash and arrest on Magnolia in Salina -photo courtesy KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA– A Kansas&nbsp; man pleaded guilty Tuesday to an armed robbery at a convenience store in Newton, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.Jorge Correa, 25, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. In his plea, Correa admitted that on Feb. 4, 2020, he and two co-defendants robbed the EZ Trip at 100 S. Main in Newton.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581099764567.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Correa -photo Harvey Co.Correa had a military style rifle. The clerk gave them cash, but Correa demanded more. While the clerk was getting money from her purse, Correa fired several shots that hit the ceiling, aisle displays and an ATM machine.Both Correa and Montes were armed when they entered the store before 6 a.m. Feb. 4.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600809125735.png" alt="Montes photo Harvey Co." />
 <figcaption>Montes photo Harvey Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators used surveillance footage to identify a license tag number of the getaway vehicle. After a high speed pursuit, the Kansas Highway Patrol arrested the three defendants. Urias was driving. Montes was wearing a red hoodie and sitting in the front passenger seat. Correa was sitting in the back seat with a rifle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581099636176.png" alt="Urias photo Harvey Co." />
 <figcaption>Urias photo Harvey Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Co-defendant&nbsp;Rico Montes&nbsp;is set for a change of plea hearing Sept. 30. Co-defendant&nbsp;Jeremiah Urias&nbsp;is set for a change of plea hearing Sept. 28.Correa is set for sentencing Dec. 8. He could face a penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. McAllister commended the FBI, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Newton Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger for their work on the case.

One of three men accused in Newton robbery enters plea

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners took time to discuss how to move forward with wind energy development during Tuesday's meeting. The matter was brought up during the discussion part of the agenda session.&nbsp;

Commissioner Ron Hirst, who voted down a conditional use permit for the NextEra project, said Tuesday it was time to move forward in getting a possible wind project going. Hirst says such an agreement would address many issues including how to finance decommissioning of wind farms.

“A development contract would include things like decommissioning, it would include things like roads used, bridges, cost penalties for not using those roads,” Hirst said. “It kind of stems back from some of the conversation I had at the last Kansas Association of Counties meeting with other counties that have wind power.”

Commissioner Ron Sellers said he agrees with Hirst on getting things moving along with new regulations coming soon from the Planning Commission.

“It seems like we’re always in a hurry to do something,” Sellers said. “It would appear that in the next two or three months that the Planning Commission will have some kind of document for us to approve, or not approve, or to send back to them.”

Sellers says such an agreement could address both sides of the wind argument. “This development agreement ties in with that on what the benefits to the county are and what the promises by the developer are. I would encourage us to try and do that," Sellers said.

County Administrator Randy Partington noted that it may be difficult to come up with any such agreement with no specific project being proposed.

“Usually with a development agreement we would already know where a wind farm would be located, and that (agreement) would be more specific to that area and following the regulations that are in place,” Partington said. “Would you want the development agreement to look at example ones and then take it back to the Planning Commission to help them go backward and set up the regulations?”&nbsp;

The Planning Commission hopes to have the wind farm regulations in place for the County Commission to take action on later this fall. Another meeting to go over the proposed regulations is set for October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579705802237.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners took time to discuss how to move forward with wind energy development during Tuesday's meeting. The matter was brought up during the discussion part of the agenda session.&nbsp;Commissioner Ron Hirst, who voted down a conditional use permit for the NextEra project, said Tuesday it was time to move forward in getting a possible wind project going. Hirst says such an agreement would address many issues including how to finance decommissioning of wind farms.“A development contract would include things like decommissioning, it would include things like roads used, bridges, cost penalties for not using those roads,” Hirst said. “It kind of stems back from some of the conversation I had at the last Kansas Association of Counties meeting with other counties that have wind power.”Commissioner Ron Sellers said he agrees with Hirst on getting things moving along with new regulations coming soon from the Planning Commission.“It seems like we’re always in a hurry to do something,” Sellers said. “It would appear that in the next two or three months that the Planning Commission will have some kind of document for us to approve, or not approve, or to send back to them.”Sellers says such an agreement could address both sides of the wind argument. “This development agreement ties in with that on what the benefits to the county are and what the promises by the developer are. I would encourage us to try and do that," Sellers said.County Administrator Randy Partington noted that it may be difficult to come up with any such agreement with no specific project being proposed.“Usually with a development agreement we would already know where a wind farm would be located, and that (agreement) would be more specific to that area and following the regulations that are in place,” Partington said. “Would you want the development agreement to look at example ones and then take it back to the Planning Commission to help them go backward and set up the regulations?”&nbsp;The Planning Commission hopes to have the wind farm regulations in place for the County Commission to take action on later this fall. Another meeting to go over the proposed regulations is set for October.

Commission seems ready to move forward with wind power 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The results of community-wide pandemic testing show there are people walking around with asymptomatic conditions that are resulting in positive tests.

Dr. Scott Pauly with the Hutchinson Clinic, who helped administer the free testing, reported to the County Commission Tuesday that, in each of the three test days, five positive tests were found. Pauly says the pandemic is still very new and such positive tests could mean three things.

“There is the possibility that you catch somebody who is pre-symptomatic,” Pauly said. “The next scenario is, 'hey, there’s somebody who is never going to become symptomatic, they’re asymptomatic by the definition and they are infectious.' Or there is the possibility that they are post-infectious and are recovering.”&nbsp;

Pauly says the pandemic has changed the way the medical field has assessed viral spread and testing. And while the tests aren’t perfect, they are the best available.

“This is different than any medicine I’ve practiced,” Pauly said. “This is a practice of decreasing the transmission of a pandemic within a population. The earth is round, the sky is up and the ground is down. The positive test rate is what we use to track (COVID-19), we use the best test we have.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pauly says that wearing masks and taking additional steps have brought the pandemic spread down, but it is still not contained.

“This virus, based on our best knowledge in six months, which is in the infancy of understanding this — one person would infect five people, those five would infect five. So that’s 25 more plus the original one plus the second five,” Pauly said. “We’ve already cut the transmission value in this country down to three, down to two and change most likely in this community. But anything above one is exponential spread.”

Another round of community testing is set for Saturday. The testing will once again be held at the 2107 Building parking lot at the Hutchinson Clinic. The tests run from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and are free of charge.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598639401459.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The results of community-wide pandemic testing show there are people walking around with asymptomatic conditions that are resulting in positive tests.Dr. Scott Pauly with the Hutchinson Clinic, who helped administer the free testing, reported to the County Commission Tuesday that, in each of the three test days, five positive tests were found. Pauly says the pandemic is still very new and such positive tests could mean three things.“There is the possibility that you catch somebody who is pre-symptomatic,” Pauly said. “The next scenario is, 'hey, there’s somebody who is never going to become symptomatic, they’re asymptomatic by the definition and they are infectious.' Or there is the possibility that they are post-infectious and are recovering.”&nbsp;Pauly says the pandemic has changed the way the medical field has assessed viral spread and testing. And while the tests aren’t perfect, they are the best available.“This is different than any medicine I’ve practiced,” Pauly said. “This is a practice of decreasing the transmission of a pandemic within a population. The earth is round, the sky is up and the ground is down. The positive test rate is what we use to track (COVID-19), we use the best test we have.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Pauly says that wearing masks and taking additional steps have brought the pandemic spread down, but it is still not contained.“This virus, based on our best knowledge in six months, which is in the infancy of understanding this — one person would infect five people, those five would infect five. So that’s 25 more plus the original one plus the second five,” Pauly said. “We’ve already cut the transmission value in this country down to three, down to two and change most likely in this community. But anything above one is exponential spread.”Another round of community testing is set for Saturday. The testing will once again be held at the 2107 Building parking lot at the Hutchinson Clinic. The tests run from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and are free of charge.

Community-wide COVID testing turns up positive cases

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Interfaith Housing and Community Services has finished the first step of a housing complex at 701 S. Plum.&nbsp;

An open house of the Southern Pines Townhomes will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday. The public is invited.

The complex, spearheaded by former Hutchinson Hospital CEO Gene Schmidt and his wife, will consist of eight two-bedroom duplex units designated for seniors 55 years old and older.

A percentage of the annual profits from this privately-funded housing project will be invested back into the Lincoln Neighborhood in the form of housing rehabilitation or other neighborhood needs.

“We are truly blessed to have been on this project journey with Gene and Kay Schmidt,” Clint Nelson of Interfaith Housing said. “Their vision and generosity has provided Interfaith a new revenue stream for decades of expanded impact in our community.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600705472448.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Interfaith Housing and Community Services has finished the first step of a housing complex at 701 S. Plum.&nbsp;An open house of the Southern Pines Townhomes will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday. The public is invited.The complex, spearheaded by former Hutchinson Hospital CEO Gene Schmidt and his wife, will consist of eight two-bedroom duplex units designated for seniors 55 years old and older.A percentage of the annual profits from this privately-funded housing project will be invested back into the Lincoln Neighborhood in the form of housing rehabilitation or other neighborhood needs.“We are truly blessed to have been on this project journey with Gene and Kay Schmidt,” Clint Nelson of Interfaith Housing said. “Their vision and generosity has provided Interfaith a new revenue stream for decades of expanded impact in our community.”&nbsp;

Interfaith Housing to celebrate new housing complex

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It would have been a perfect 10 days to have the Kansas State Fair with beautiful weather. But with the cancellation of the fair there were no amusement rides filling the background noise, no smells of food filling the air, nor a steady buzz of people passing by.&nbsp;

That still didn't stop about 200 Kansas 4-H members from participating in the last of three livestock shows featuring horse, poultry, dairy goat and dairy cattle entries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There was the expected social distancing among competitors and a handful of spectators, and safety measures were put in place to protect all involved. But Shannon Rogge, a program coordinator with Kansas 4-H Youth Development, said what was equally evident was the spirit on display.&nbsp;

“Many families continued to work on 4-H projects even when club and project meetings were not meeting face to face,” Rogge said. “Local agents provided support to keep families updated on deadlines and requirements. Our volunteers also were able to adapt to changes as they prepared for shows.”&nbsp;

Winners in each category were named, but the predominant refrain was putting a nice wrap on another 4-H year. Rogge said that the event in the wake of the pandemic was a good learning opportunity for 4-H youth.

“I do believe these youth learned resiliency, as the situation was ever-changing,” Rogge said. “In addition, they had to make tough decisions related to their projects, which goes back to the life skills that we teach in 4-H.”&nbsp;

Rogge noted that youth did not have to qualify at district events in order to show at the state fair this year; the district events would normally have been held at a time when Americans were being encouraged to stay at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Results from this year’s Kansas State Fair horse, poultry, dairy goat and dairy cattle shows will be available at <a href="http://www.kansas4-h.org/">www.Kansas4-H.org</a> when they are available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600792516672.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It would have been a perfect 10 days to have the Kansas State Fair with beautiful weather. But with the cancellation of the fair there were no amusement rides filling the background noise, no smells of food filling the air, nor a steady buzz of people passing by.&nbsp;That still didn't stop about 200 Kansas 4-H members from participating in the last of three livestock shows featuring horse, poultry, dairy goat and dairy cattle entries.&nbsp;&nbsp;There was the expected social distancing among competitors and a handful of spectators, and safety measures were put in place to protect all involved. But Shannon Rogge, a program coordinator with Kansas 4-H Youth Development, said what was equally evident was the spirit on display.&nbsp;“Many families continued to work on 4-H projects even when club and project meetings were not meeting face to face,” Rogge said. “Local agents provided support to keep families updated on deadlines and requirements. Our volunteers also were able to adapt to changes as they prepared for shows.”&nbsp;Winners in each category were named, but the predominant refrain was putting a nice wrap on another 4-H year. Rogge said that the event in the wake of the pandemic was a good learning opportunity for 4-H youth.“I do believe these youth learned resiliency, as the situation was ever-changing,” Rogge said. “In addition, they had to make tough decisions related to their projects, which goes back to the life skills that we teach in 4-H.”&nbsp;Rogge noted that youth did not have to qualify at district events in order to show at the state fair this year; the district events would normally have been held at a time when Americans were being encouraged to stay at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;Results from this year’s Kansas State Fair horse, poultry, dairy goat and dairy cattle shows will be available at <a href="http://www.kansas4-h.org/">www.Kansas4-H.org</a> when they are available.&nbsp;

Good turn out for livestock competition at fairgrounds

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners approved spending the money to make renovations and repairs to the courthouse during Tuesday's meeting but how they are going to pay for the project is still up in the air.

The county is facing about $1.1 million in earthquake repairs and another $2.3 million in renovations. Insurance will pay for the repairs but the county is still trying to figure out what route they want to take in paying for the renovations.

The county can use bonds, pay for it in cash or use a combination of both. The county is wanting to be careful with its cash on hand due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic-driven economy.&nbsp;

Also Tuesday, the Board approved the purchase of a used fire truck for Rural Fire District 4 for an amount not to exceed $100,000. The county also briefly discussed the need to replace air bottles for the department which could cost between $25,000 and $40,000 depending on how much of the equipment could be renovated rather than replaced.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596884102345.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners approved spending the money to make renovations and repairs to the courthouse during Tuesday's meeting but how they are going to pay for the project is still up in the air.The county is facing about $1.1 million in earthquake repairs and another $2.3 million in renovations. Insurance will pay for the repairs but the county is still trying to figure out what route they want to take in paying for the renovations.The county can use bonds, pay for it in cash or use a combination of both. The county is wanting to be careful with its cash on hand due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic-driven economy.&nbsp;Also Tuesday, the Board approved the purchase of a used fire truck for Rural Fire District 4 for an amount not to exceed $100,000. The county also briefly discussed the need to replace air bottles for the department which could cost between $25,000 and $40,000 depending on how much of the equipment could be renovated rather than replaced.&nbsp;

Co. Commission approves resolution for courthouse repairs

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

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

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

Recent obituaries


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Republican incumbent candidate for House District 104, Paul Waggoner went to Topeka as a limited government advocate and he has held that line.

"The biggest accomplishment is doing what I told the voters I would do," Waggoner said. "A lot of people will speak one way when they're running for election and then when they get up there, they do something exactly the opposite. I have my voting record. It's on our website at waggonerforkansas.org. I'm really very proud of all the votes I took. I really can't think of any of them that I would redo if I had a chance."

Waggoner is most concerned with consistency, not necessarily with agreement within the party.

"Executive, of course is a Democrat, Laura Kelly," Waggoner said. "The legislature is predominately Republican. I think the bigger issue is, do the people who sit next to me in committees or on the floor, I mean, are they doing what they told voters they would. It's one thing to run as a certain type of Republican and vote as another or vice versa, but if that's what the voters of that district wanted, I see no problem with people having their different philosophical positions."

"In committees, you sit Republican, Democrat, Republican, Democrat," Waggoner said. "I sit next to people who are literally my polar opposites politically, but its very easy to get along with them as people. They're very interesting. You talk to people. You try and come to some sort of common opinion, but at the end of the day, you have to take a vote. You either vote yes or no. That's the system and in Topeka, it definitely still works."

Waggoner is running against Democrat Garth Strand in November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587035426296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Republican incumbent candidate for House District 104, Paul Waggoner went to Topeka as a limited government advocate and he has held that line."The biggest accomplishment is doing what I told the voters I would do," Waggoner said. "A lot of people will speak one way when they're running for election and then when they get up there, they do something exactly the opposite. I have my voting record. It's on our website at waggonerforkansas.org. I'm really very proud of all the votes I took. I really can't think of any of them that I would redo if I had a chance."Waggoner is most concerned with consistency, not necessarily with agreement within the party."Executive, of course is a Democrat, Laura Kelly," Waggoner said. "The legislature is predominately Republican. I think the bigger issue is, do the people who sit next to me in committees or on the floor, I mean, are they doing what they told voters they would. It's one thing to run as a certain type of Republican and vote as another or vice versa, but if that's what the voters of that district wanted, I see no problem with people having their different philosophical positions."Waggoner sees the process as a positive."In committees, you sit Republican, Democrat, Republican, Democrat," Waggoner said. "I sit next to people who are literally my polar opposites politically, but its very easy to get along with them as people. They're very interesting. You talk to people. You try and come to some sort of common opinion, but at the end of the day, you have to take a vote. You either vote yes or no. That's the system and in Topeka, it definitely still works."Waggoner is running against Democrat Garth Strand in November.

Waggoner proud of consistent record in Topeka


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Democratic candidate for House District 104 that covers most of the northern half of Hutchinson and much of northeast Reno County, Garth Strand is a proponent of Medicaid expansion in Kansas.

"This has been going on for something like eight to nine years," Strand said. "It is absolutely stalled out by partisan politics. If you've read my website, I identify that as the biggest challenge we have, because it has us paralyzed."

The Kansas Speaks Survey from Fort Hays State University released last December noted that almost two-thirds, 62% of Kansans support Medicaid expansion. 

"The will of the people has been ignored," Strand said. "I think that's exactly where we are."

It is likely even if Strand is elected to the Statehouse that he will be part of the minority party, but his focus is his district.

"I'm representing every voter in District 104," Strand said. "I don't think politics. In fact, if you've looked at my campaign, I say solutions, not politics. I care about everybody's opinion and I care about arriving at the best solutions."

The former Heartland Credit Union CEO is running against Republican incumbent Paul Waggoner in November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600784635442.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Democratic candidate for House District 104 that covers most of the northern half of Hutchinson and much of northeast Reno County, Garth Strand is a proponent of Medicaid expansion in Kansas."This has been going on for something like eight to nine years," Strand said. "It is absolutely stalled out by partisan politics. If you've read my website, I identify that as the biggest challenge we have, because it has us paralyzed."The Kansas Speaks Survey from Fort Hays State University released last December noted that almost two-thirds, 62% of Kansans support Medicaid expansion. "The will of the people has been ignored," Strand said. "I think that's exactly where we are."It is likely even if Strand is elected to the Statehouse that he will be part of the minority party, but his focus is his district."I'm representing every voter in District 104," Strand said. "I don't think politics. In fact, if you've looked at my campaign, I say solutions, not politics. I care about everybody's opinion and I care about arriving at the best solutions."The former Heartland Credit Union CEO is running against Republican incumbent Paul Waggoner in November.

Strand supports Medicaid expansion, looking for solutions


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As students at Buhler Grade prepare for a week or so of flex learning that starts Tuesday, Superintendent Cindy Couchman said that if you weren't able to pick up your student's materials on Monday, it's easy to get that done.

"The school office is open," Couchman said. "If they would just call the school office any time between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. this week, then we will bring the devices and materials out to you. They're all lined up ready to go with their names on them. They can call and say I'm here to pick up."

Ideatek is also making sure that there are places kids can go and get wireless internet through the week.

"Daniel Friesen, he has stepped up and said, hey we will not only open up drive up access points in the community, but if you are struggling to pay for internet or you do not have internet, to contact them and they'll help you out for the next month."

Drive up locations will be at the IdeaTek office, 111 Old Mill Street and at the Buhler Library on Main Street. Free drive up service is also available at the Sand Hills Event Center at 4601 N Plum Street in Hutchinson.

Also, members of the BGS community are being sure the families in quarantine get what they need to keep education going.

"Obviously, if they're quarantined, we don't want them to come to the building to get lunches and get the materials," Couchman said. "We have community members that have stepped up to say, I can deliver to their porch. After they pick up their lunches, they're delivering other families lunches. I'm very appreciative of that. I think I said at our parent meeting that we're all in a canoe and if we're all rowing in the same direction, we're going to get a lot further and a lot faster."

Couchman made clear this is intended to be only through September 29 and that if fewer classes are impacted, then keeping just those classes on flex learning past that date is something they will consider.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As students at Buhler Grade prepare for a week or so of flex learning that starts Tuesday, Superintendent Cindy Couchman said that if you weren't able to pick up your student's materials on Monday, it's easy to get that done."The school office is open," Couchman said. "If they would just call the school office any time between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. this week, then we will bring the devices and materials out to you. They're all lined up ready to go with their names on them. They can call and say I'm here to pick up."Ideatek is also making sure that there are places kids can go and get wireless internet through the week."Daniel Friesen, he has stepped up and said, hey we will not only open up drive up access points in the community, but if you are struggling to pay for internet or you do not have internet, to contact them and they'll help you out for the next month."Drive up locations will be at the IdeaTek office, 111 Old Mill Street and at the Buhler Library on Main Street. Free drive up service is also available at the Sand Hills Event Center at 4601 N Plum Street in Hutchinson.Also, members of the BGS community are being sure the families in quarantine get what they need to keep education going."Obviously, if they're quarantined, we don't want them to come to the building to get lunches and get the materials," Couchman said. "We have community members that have stepped up to say, I can deliver to their porch. After they pick up their lunches, they're delivering other families lunches. I'm very appreciative of that. I think I said at our parent meeting that we're all in a canoe and if we're all rowing in the same direction, we're going to get a lot further and a lot faster."Couchman made clear this is intended to be only through September 29 and that if fewer classes are impacted, then keeping just those classes on flex learning past that date is something they will consider.

Buhler community stepping up to help grade school during closure

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Four members of the Hutchinson Police Department and three with the Reno County Sheriff's Department were among 70 new law enforcement officers who graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) Sept. 18 at a ceremony held in KLETC’s Integrity Auditorium.&nbsp;

Officers Madaline Carr, Lance Fairchild, Tyler Proctor and Braden Stewart with HPD and Francisco Gutierrez, Mathew Lutz and Ethan Price with the sheriff’s department were among those participating in the ceremony. The large class size was designed to prevent disruption to Kansas law enforcement and to ensure there was no additional delay in training created by the suspension of on-campus classes in the spring of 2020 because of COVID-19.

The 268th also raised more than $1,700 for the Children's Advocacy Centers of Kansas (CACKS). This money will be going to a project that will benefit children across the state called My Backpack. Class president Christopher Engle-Tjaden presented CACKS Executive Director Juliane Walker a check on behalf of the class.

The graduates began their training in June 2020 and represented 42 municipal, county and state law enforcement agencies from across Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600721611291.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Four members of the Hutchinson Police Department and three with the Reno County Sheriff's Department were among 70 new law enforcement officers who graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) Sept. 18 at a ceremony held in KLETC’s Integrity Auditorium.&nbsp;Officers Madaline Carr, Lance Fairchild, Tyler Proctor and Braden Stewart with HPD and Francisco Gutierrez, Mathew Lutz and Ethan Price with the sheriff’s department were among those participating in the ceremony. The large class size was designed to prevent disruption to Kansas law enforcement and to ensure there was no additional delay in training created by the suspension of on-campus classes in the spring of 2020 because of COVID-19.The 268th also raised more than $1,700 for the Children's Advocacy Centers of Kansas (CACKS). This money will be going to a project that will benefit children across the state called My Backpack. Class president Christopher Engle-Tjaden presented CACKS Executive Director Juliane Walker a check on behalf of the class.The graduates began their training in June 2020 and represented 42 municipal, county and state law enforcement agencies from across Kansas.&nbsp;

Seven local law enforcement officers graduate from KLETC

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Because of ongoing hazards and challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hutchinson Fox Theatre announced that several performances have been moved to another date.

Live events for the month of October have been rescheduled as follows:

The Larry Carlton's Steely Dan concert is now March 12 at 8 p.m.

Colin Mochrie &amp; Brad Sherwood: Scared Scriptless will be Sunday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. and

The BoDeans new date is Saturday, July 17, at 8 p.m.

If you have already purchased tickets for any of these events, please hold on to them as they will be valid for the rescheduled dates.

If you opt not to keep your current tickets for the new date, you may contact the box office for a full refund by calling 620-663-1981 or emailing <a href="mailto:thefox@hutchinsonfox.com">thefox@hutchinsonfox.com</a>. Please include your full name as it appears on your ticket order and, if possible, your order number.

Recent credit card orders will be refunded back to the card. Other credit card orders and all orders paid via cash or check will be refunded via company check from the Fox Theatre and mailed to the billing address on file. Please allow 10 to 14 business days for processing of refund checks following the refund request.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584641013194.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Because of ongoing hazards and challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hutchinson Fox Theatre announced that several performances have been moved to another date.Live events for the month of October have been rescheduled as follows:The Larry Carlton's Steely Dan concert is now March 12 at 8 p.m.Colin Mochrie &amp; Brad Sherwood: Scared Scriptless will be Sunday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. andThe BoDeans new date is Saturday, July 17, at 8 p.m.If you have already purchased tickets for any of these events, please hold on to them as they will be valid for the rescheduled dates.If you opt not to keep your current tickets for the new date, you may contact the box office for a full refund by calling 620-663-1981 or emailing <a href="mailto:thefox@hutchinsonfox.com">thefox@hutchinsonfox.com</a>. Please include your full name as it appears on your ticket order and, if possible, your order number.Recent credit card orders will be refunded back to the card. Other credit card orders and all orders paid via cash or check will be refunded via company check from the Fox Theatre and mailed to the billing address on file. Please allow 10 to 14 business days for processing of refund checks following the refund request.

Fox Theatre announces new dates for October performances

LYONS, Kan. — KDOT announced that work crews will begin resurfacing a 14-mile section of U.S. 56 starting in the coming days.&nbsp;

The asphalt overlay will run from the east city limits of Lyons east to the McPherson county line. The work is expected to begin around Friday and be completed around the end of October, depending on the weather.&nbsp;

During the project, traffic will be controlled by a pilot car and flaggers, and motorists should be prepared to stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes. The Kansas Department of Transportation is overseeing the project. APAC-Kansas Inc. of Hutchinson is the main contractor for the $1,935,248 project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600717629891.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LYONS, Kan. — KDOT announced that work crews will begin resurfacing a 14-mile section of U.S. 56 starting in the coming days.&nbsp;The asphalt overlay will run from the east city limits of Lyons east to the McPherson county line. The work is expected to begin around Friday and be completed around the end of October, depending on the weather.&nbsp;During the project, traffic will be controlled by a pilot car and flaggers, and motorists should be prepared to stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes. The Kansas Department of Transportation is overseeing the project. APAC-Kansas Inc. of Hutchinson is the main contractor for the $1,935,248 project.

Road work in Rice County to begin Friday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Acting Sec. of Labor Ryan Wright.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas Sec. of Labor Ryan Wright" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/fbh3r-ec207d?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 Kansas Acting Sec. of Labor Ryan Wright.

🎤Forward Ever: Kan. Acting Sec. of Labor Ryan Wright

Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall reminds us that the end of the federal fiscal year is the end of September. 

"That's why we've got to get something done now," Marshall said Monday. "This is our chance for this COVID relief bill to help hardworking Kansans out. Maybe a little boost in the Paycheck Protection Program, some help with unemployment insurance, liability protection. We've got to get that somehow piggybacked on to some of these, keeping the government open, funding everything from our military to USDA."

This is going to be another continuing resolution, though. It will not be a new budget. Frankly, most of the attention will be focused on the other side of Capitol Hill now after the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Friday.

"I just don't think that the Democrats can point to any major legislation they've accomplished since they got the gavel," Marshall said. "I don't expect them to do anything else. Just like the impeachment hearing. When the impeachment was going on in the Senate, all the attention from the Democrats was making sure that was the news, front and center. As we go through this confirmation process for whichever Supreme Court justice President Trump nominates, that's where their focus will be. Their focus will be getting in front of a TV camera."

Despite the fact that he won't get to vote on any nominee President Trump might put forth before the election, and the winner of the U.S. Senate race he is in would get a say if it happened after inauguration, Marshall still believes that there should be an up or down vote as soon as possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595001869381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall reminds us that the end of the federal fiscal year is the end of September. "That's why we've got to get something done now," Marshall said Monday. "This is our chance for this COVID relief bill to help hardworking Kansans out. Maybe a little boost in the Paycheck Protection Program, some help with unemployment insurance, liability protection. We've got to get that somehow piggybacked on to some of these, keeping the government open, funding everything from our military to USDA."This is going to be another continuing resolution, though. It will not be a new budget. Frankly, most of the attention will be focused on the other side of Capitol Hill now after the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Friday."I just don't think that the Democrats can point to any major legislation they've accomplished since they got the gavel," Marshall said. "I don't expect them to do anything else. Just like the impeachment hearing. When the impeachment was going on in the Senate, all the attention from the Democrats was making sure that was the news, front and center. As we go through this confirmation process for whichever Supreme Court justice President Trump nominates, that's where their focus will be. Their focus will be getting in front of a TV camera."Despite the fact that he won't get to vote on any nominee President Trump might put forth before the election, and the winner of the U.S. Senate race he is in would get a say if it happened after inauguration, Marshall still believes that there should be an up or down vote as soon as possible.

Marshall: Get something done on budget before Supreme Court vacancy takes over news

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce will host their second Candidate Forum for the 2020 General Election Tuesday at the South Hutchinson Community Center at 101 W Avenue C.

The event begins at 5:30 p.m. featuring the Kansas House District 101 candidates Elliott Adams and Rep. Joe Seiwert and Kansas House District 114 candidates Jeff Stroberg and Michael Murphy.

No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however the public is invited to submit questions in advance to Chelsey Dawson at chelseyd@hutchchamber.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce will host their second Candidate Forum for the 2020 General Election Tuesday at the South Hutchinson Community Center at 101 W Avenue C.The event begins at 5:30 p.m. featuring the Kansas House District 101 candidates Elliott Adams and Rep. Joe Seiwert and Kansas House District 114 candidates Jeff Stroberg and Michael Murphy.No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however the public is invited to submit questions in advance to Chelsey Dawson at chelseyd@hutchchamber.com.

Chamber candidate forum Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department says a second weekend of community testing went well with 254 tests administered on Saturday.&nbsp;

The testing was held at the Hutchinson Clinic 2107 Building driveway. 

The Health Department wanted to do the testing to try and get a better picture of how the pandemic is running through the county. The hope is to get a better and more accurate positive test rate. Results of those tests should be known in the next day or two.&nbsp;

Another community test will be held on the 26th. The tests are free and the clinic will do another 250 tests.

Meanwhile the Health Department urges the public to 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.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598639401459.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department says a second weekend of community testing went well with 254 tests administered on Saturday.&nbsp;The testing was held at the Hutchinson Clinic 2107 Building driveway. The Health Department wanted to do the testing to try and get a better picture of how the pandemic is running through the county. The hope is to get a better and more accurate positive test rate. Results of those tests should be known in the next day or two.&nbsp;Another community test will be held on the 26th. The tests are free and the clinic will do another 250 tests.Meanwhile the Health Department urges the public to 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.&nbsp;It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Community testing held Saturday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Buhler Grade School is going to their flex learning plan with a plan to return September 30. Five classrooms were impacted by the COVID-19 cases at the school in that either there was a case in the classroom, or the case is a student that lives with a teacher in another classroom.

"Five out of the 13 teachers would need to quarantine," said superintendent Cindy Couchman. "At that point, we sort of reflected as an admin team on the health and safety and the confidence of sending your kids to the building and how confident staff would be in coming to the building at that point. That's when we decided as a team to close Buhler Grade School to in person learning."

Monday is the day to pick up the technology to do the work for the rest of the period. The fact that the day without instruction happens to fall on September 21 this year is an issue.

"We get our funding based upon who is actually in their seat September 21," Couchman said. "Then, if you're not there, you have to do two things. You have to show that you were in attendance some time before September 21 and sometime after September 21, but before October 4. I think that we will all be back in session by October 4, but we want to cross our Ts and dot our Is on that funding. That's what it takes."

The intent is for all of the current cases to clear by the return to school, but if more pop up, they will likely go on a classroom by classroom basis. That was the original intent of the Return to Learn plan, but the number of classrooms affected prompted the overall closure in this case. All other USD 313 schools will remain open at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="Buhler USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Buhler USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Buhler Grade School is going to their flex learning plan with a plan to return September 30. Five classrooms were impacted by the COVID-19 cases at the school in that either there was a case in the classroom, or the case is a student that lives with a teacher in another classroom."Five out of the 13 teachers would need to quarantine," said superintendent Cindy Couchman. "At that point, we sort of reflected as an admin team on the health and safety and the confidence of sending your kids to the building and how confident staff would be in coming to the building at that point. That's when we decided as a team to close Buhler Grade School to in person learning."Monday is the day to pick up the technology to do the work for the rest of the period. The fact that the day without instruction happens to fall on September 21 this year is an issue."We get our funding based upon who is actually in their seat September 21," Couchman said. "Then, if you're not there, you have to do two things. You have to show that you were in attendance some time before September 21 and sometime after September 21, but before October 4. I think that we will all be back in session by October 4, but we want to cross our Ts and dot our Is on that funding. That's what it takes."The intent is for all of the current cases to clear by the return to school, but if more pop up, they will likely go on a classroom by classroom basis. That was the original intent of the Return to Learn plan, but the number of classrooms affected prompted the overall closure in this case. All other USD 313 schools will remain open at this time.

Buhler Grade remote learning starting Tuesday may have funding impact

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

We are clearly in the middle of fall and that means harvest. Harvest is one of the most thrilling, rewarding, happiest time of the year. Of course, that is when things go right. It can also be the most maddening, frustrating, disappointing times of the year when they do not. If you are in agriculture and you do not look forward to this time of the year you might be in the wrong business. Fall is our Super Bowl.

Good or bad, harvest is all about the rush, time crunch and stress. We are always in a hurry, and it must be done yesterday. I know we do not have any free time during this time of the year, but I want you to take just a moment. Think about what you are a part of. In just a few short weeks we will harvest enough food to feed most of the world. You are part of a well-oiled machine that feeds more people, with fewer resources and less of an impact to our environment than any where else in this world.

As a Kansas Farmer you utilize the best technology along with the latest research and techniques to produce more grain from a single acre than our grandfathers could have ever imagined 50 years ago. I am pretty sure we are all on the run so much that we don’t ever take a minute to just sit back and think about what we are doing, much less do we share what amazing work we are doing.

Look out across those acres of the best hybrid technology in your fields be it corn or soybeans. How many bushels would those same acres have produced 20 years ago or even 10. What farming methods are you using? It is stunning to think about how far our business has come in just a few short years, and I guarantee you that we will be stunned again 10 years from now. We are part of one of the most innovative, progressive industries, and we have to be.

In the next 50 years we must find a way to produce more food than we have ever produced. You know what — I have no doubt we will do it. Those of us in agriculture have always risen to the challenge and we always will. No one is more productive than the American farmer, we are without a doubt the best in the business. We do not often acknowledge it because that is the kind of people we are. We have our nose the grindstone, do our job and wake up the next day and do it all over again.

I challenge you to take a moment and think about the work we all do, go ahead, and stick your chest out, you deserve it. While you are at it, tell others about it. Take pride in it. The last few months have proven just how important agriculture is. After the moment is over, get back to work, you have a lot to get done.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherWe are clearly in the middle of fall and that means harvest. Harvest is one of the most thrilling, rewarding, happiest time of the year. Of course, that is when things go right. It can also be the most maddening, frustrating, disappointing times of the year when they do not. If you are in agriculture and you do not look forward to this time of the year you might be in the wrong business. Fall is our Super Bowl.Good or bad, harvest is all about the rush, time crunch and stress. We are always in a hurry, and it must be done yesterday. I know we do not have any free time during this time of the year, but I want you to take just a moment. Think about what you are a part of. In just a few short weeks we will harvest enough food to feed most of the world. You are part of a well-oiled machine that feeds more people, with fewer resources and less of an impact to our environment than any where else in this world.As a Kansas Farmer you utilize the best technology along with the latest research and techniques to produce more grain from a single acre than our grandfathers could have ever imagined 50 years ago. I am pretty sure we are all on the run so much that we don’t ever take a minute to just sit back and think about what we are doing, much less do we share what amazing work we are doing.Look out across those acres of the best hybrid technology in your fields be it corn or soybeans. How many bushels would those same acres have produced 20 years ago or even 10. What farming methods are you using? It is stunning to think about how far our business has come in just a few short years, and I guarantee you that we will be stunned again 10 years from now. We are part of one of the most innovative, progressive industries, and we have to be.In the next 50 years we must find a way to produce more food than we have ever produced. You know what — I have no doubt we will do it. Those of us in agriculture have always risen to the challenge and we always will. No one is more productive than the American farmer, we are without a doubt the best in the business. We do not often acknowledge it because that is the kind of people we are. We have our nose the grindstone, do our job and wake up the next day and do it all over again.I challenge you to take a moment and think about the work we all do, go ahead, and stick your chest out, you deserve it. While you are at it, tell others about it. Take pride in it. The last few months have proven just how important agriculture is. After the moment is over, get back to work, you have a lot to get done."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: Taking Pride in Agriculture

Release from Reno County Health Department

Due to several positive COVID-19 cases within Buhler Grade School and those classrooms needing to quarantine; Buhler Grade School will be closed to in person classes beginning September 21, 2020. In conjunction with the USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman, it was decided to close the grade school thru Sept. 29, 2020, pending no further positive COVID-19 cases evolve. 

Parents with students in classes of a case were notified by the Buhler School District and the Reno County Health Department will follow up with phone calls to the parents of those that need to quarantine due to exposure to COVID-19.

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.

Additional information from Superintendent Cindy Couchman via Facebook:

The district has been notified of 5 confirmed cases of COVID-19 at Buhler Grade School.  Buhler Grade School students with close contact to these positive cases will need to quarantine starting immediately until September 30th.   If your child is a close contact, you will be receiving a call to give guidance regarding immediate quarantine procedures.  If you do not receive a follow-up phone call, you may assume your child was not a close contact and does not need to follow quarantine procedures. 

Due to the RCHD confirmation of these positive cases, USD #313 will be closing Buhler Grade School to in person learning beginning Monday, September 21st through Tuesday September 29th.  All Buhler Grade School students will be moving to our Flex Learning model during this closure.  This closure only affects Buhler Grade School – all other Buhler attendance centers will be open for in-person learning. 

Buhler's Flex Learning Plan can be found in their Return to Learn Document&nbsp; at&nbsp;<a href="https://sites.google.com/usd313.org/returntolearn2020?fbclid=IwAR0x1jfB0sPXXviSfsNV70Ypr8bMgvcJBB6kZJj86qX2likVvve6sdkHAcQ" target="_blank">https://sites.google.com/usd313.org/returntolearn2020</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="Buhler USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Buhler USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Reno County Health DepartmentDue to several positive COVID-19 cases within Buhler Grade School and those classrooms needing to quarantine; Buhler Grade School will be closed to in person classes beginning September 21, 2020. In conjunction with the USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman, it was decided to close the grade school thru Sept. 29, 2020, pending no further positive COVID-19 cases evolve. Parents with students in classes of a case were notified by the Buhler School District and the Reno County Health Department will follow up with phone calls to the parents of those that need to quarantine due to exposure to COVID-19.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.Additional information from Superintendent Cindy Couchman via Facebook:The district has been notified of 5 confirmed cases of COVID-19 at Buhler Grade School. Buhler Grade School students with close contact to these positive cases will need to quarantine starting immediately until September 30th. If your child is a close contact, you will be receiving a call to give guidance regarding immediate quarantine procedures. If you do not receive a follow-up phone call, you may assume your child was not a close contact and does not need to follow quarantine procedures. Due to the RCHD confirmation of these positive cases, USD #313 will be closing Buhler Grade School to in person learning beginning Monday, September 21st through Tuesday September 29th. All Buhler Grade School students will be moving to our Flex Learning model during this closure. This closure only affects Buhler Grade School – all other Buhler attendance centers will be open for in-person learning. Buhler's Flex Learning Plan can be found in their Return to Learn Document&nbsp; at&nbsp;<a href="https://sites.google.com/usd313.org/returntolearn2020?fbclid=IwAR0x1jfB0sPXXviSfsNV70Ypr8bMgvcJBB6kZJj86qX2likVvve6sdkHAcQ" target="_blank">https://sites.google.com/usd313.org/returntolearn2020</a>.

Buhler Grade School closed to in person classes starting September 21


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A survey of rural and small-town Midwest bankers says the government has helped them stay afloat during the pandemic.

"We asked the bankers about farm income in their area," said Creighton University economist Ernie Goss. "If you include the government support payments, the estimate is down just 1.5% from this time last year. We asked about whether the government programs like the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program were helping and about 39% said it was crucial to their economy."

Goss doesn't think another stimulus bill is necessary.

"I think we're going to move out of this recession," Goss said. "I think we've already moved out of the recession. We're just not back to pre-COVID levels. That's an economist's definition. Certainly, for businesses and individuals out there, they don't think we're out of a recession, but when you use the technical data, I think we'll ultimately find that quarter three numbers, the GDP numbers that will come out at the end of October and that's before the election, they're going to be pretty good."

Goss believes President Trump will trumpet those numbers in the final days in the run-up to the election.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A survey of rural and small-town Midwest bankers says the government has helped them stay afloat during the pandemic."We asked the bankers about farm income in their area," said Creighton University economist Ernie Goss. "If you include the government support payments, the estimate is down just 1.5% from this time last year. We asked about whether the government programs like the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program were helping and about 39% said it was crucial to their economy."Goss doesn't think another stimulus bill is necessary."I think we're going to move out of this recession," Goss said. "I think we've already moved out of the recession. We're just not back to pre-COVID levels. That's an economist's definition. Certainly, for businesses and individuals out there, they don't think we're out of a recession, but when you use the technical data, I think we'll ultimately find that quarter three numbers, the GDP numbers that will come out at the end of October and that's before the election, they're going to be pretty good."Goss believes President Trump will trumpet those numbers in the final days in the run-up to the election.