
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
As of Thursday evening, Reno County has an active COVID-19 case count at 36. 

109 total positive tests have occurred since the beginning of the pandemic. 3064 tests have been administered with 2955 negatives, for a positive case rate of 3.56%. 4.87% of the population has been tested.

No one in Reno County has had COVID-19 listed as the primary cause of death thus far. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593790914635.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
As of Thursday evening, Reno County has an active COVID-19 case count at 36. 109 total positive tests have occurred since the beginning of the pandemic. 3064 tests have been administered with 2955 negatives, for a positive case rate of 3.56%. 4.87% of the population has been tested.No one in Reno County has had COVID-19 listed as the primary cause of death thus far. Three people are currently hospitalized.

Reno County active case count at 36 as of Thursday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As it looks like the Kansas State Fair will be canceled for this year, area businesses that rely on the fair are bracing for the financial impact.

LeAnn Cox with the Hutchinson Convention and Visitors Bureau says canceling the fair will have an impact on the community.

“It obviously will be very disappointing for those in the community that participate, whether that be from a vendor perspective or whether that be from their individual business that benefits from those that do travel into the community,” Cox said.&nbsp;

Cox says that the cancelation of the fair will just add to what has been a miserable year for local hotels.

“Our hoteliers have been hard hit by this entire COVID situation dating back to mid-March when we couldn’t finish the 3A basketball and we had to cancel altogether the NJCAA basketball,” Cox said. “So it’s been a really rough road for the hotels.”

Cox says local restaurants will also feel the pinch of not having the extra visitors to the fair.

“A significant number of our restaurants, to a certain extent, have limitations,” Cox said. "Whether that’s their hours, whether that’s the days of the week they’re open, whether it’s the menu options that they’re offering. They’re being cautious in getting back into a routine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While no dollar loss can be placed on the cancellation of the fair, Cox says it is a big number.

“That’s a larger event than something we could ever put a dollar figure to,” Cox noted. “Ten years ago, the state fair commissioned an economic impact study by KU. Ten years ago it was well over $5 million that transitioned during that period of time.”

Cox also noted that the nation’s travel and tourism business will continue to suffer from the pandemic with some studies predicting it could be 2024 before the travel industry gets fully back to where it was before the pandemic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568929115476.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As it looks like the Kansas State Fair will be canceled for this year, area businesses that rely on the fair are bracing for the financial impact.LeAnn Cox with the Hutchinson Convention and Visitors Bureau says canceling the fair will have an impact on the community.“It obviously will be very disappointing for those in the community that participate, whether that be from a vendor perspective or whether that be from their individual business that benefits from those that do travel into the community,” Cox said.&nbsp;Cox says that the cancelation of the fair will just add to what has been a miserable year for local hotels.“Our hoteliers have been hard hit by this entire COVID situation dating back to mid-March when we couldn’t finish the 3A basketball and we had to cancel altogether the NJCAA basketball,” Cox said. “So it’s been a really rough road for the hotels.”Cox says local restaurants will also feel the pinch of not having the extra visitors to the fair.“A significant number of our restaurants, to a certain extent, have limitations,” Cox said. "Whether that’s their hours, whether that’s the days of the week they’re open, whether it’s the menu options that they’re offering. They’re being cautious in getting back into a routine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While no dollar loss can be placed on the cancellation of the fair, Cox says it is a big number.“That’s a larger event than something we could ever put a dollar figure to,” Cox noted. “Ten years ago, the state fair commissioned an economic impact study by KU. Ten years ago it was well over $5 million that transitioned during that period of time.”Cox also noted that the nation’s travel and tourism business will continue to suffer from the pandemic with some studies predicting it could be 2024 before the travel industry gets fully back to where it was before the pandemic.

CVB knows cancellation of State Fair will be a big hit

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A local resident who helped with a special book drive last year in Reno County is holding another one as the school year approaches.&nbsp;

Sarah Reade is teaming up with Reno County First Call for Help for the third year to add brand new books to the backpacks of area students in need.

“Everyone’s hope is to have the kids safely in school," Reade said. "If, for some reason, distance learning becomes a reality again I want our local children to have access to books in their homes. It’s essential.”&nbsp;

Statistics show there is one age-appropriate book for every three hundred children in low-income areas. This is a statistic Reade hopes to put a dent in within the local community.&nbsp; Last year, with Reno County First Call for Help and local community members, &nbsp;over 400 books were provided to area students. This year the goal has doubled.

“This is the third year for this book drive and each year it grows. Our hope is to be able to provide two books for each child that comes to First Call for Help for a backpack,” Reade said.

Usborne Books &amp; More will match 50% of every dollar donated to the drive and Reade has sponsorship levels for local businesses. The book drive will run through July 20th.&nbsp;

If you would like to donate or find out how you can be part of this effort, you can contact Reade at <a href="http://readewithme@gmail.com">readewithme@gmail.com</a> or visit the fundraising website at<a href="https://chuffed.org/project/booksforbackpacks"> https://chuffed.org/project/booksforbackpacks</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594323001686.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A local resident who helped with a special book drive last year in Reno County is holding another one as the school year approaches.&nbsp;Sarah Reade is teaming up with Reno County First Call for Help for the third year to add brand new books to the backpacks of area students in need.“Everyone’s hope is to have the kids safely in school," Reade said. "If, for some reason, distance learning becomes a reality again I want our local children to have access to books in their homes. It’s essential.”&nbsp;Statistics show there is one age-appropriate book for every three hundred children in low-income areas. This is a statistic Reade hopes to put a dent in within the local community.&nbsp; Last year, with Reno County First Call for Help and local community members, &nbsp;over 400 books were provided to area students. This year the goal has doubled.“This is the third year for this book drive and each year it grows. Our hope is to be able to provide two books for each child that comes to First Call for Help for a backpack,” Reade said.Usborne Books &amp; More will match 50% of every dollar donated to the drive and Reade has sponsorship levels for local businesses. The book drive will run through July 20th.&nbsp;If you would like to donate or find out how you can be part of this effort, you can contact Reade at <a href="http://readewithme@gmail.com">readewithme@gmail.com</a> or visit the fundraising website at<a href="https://chuffed.org/project/booksforbackpacks"> https://chuffed.org/project/booksforbackpacks</a>.

Local resident to team up with First Call for Help in book drive

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. — After insisting they would host this year’s fair the Kansas State Fair Board will meet on Monday where they will take action on a proposal to reconsider holding the event after all. 


If approved by the Board the fair would be canceled for the first time in over 100 years. GM Robin Jennison says the change comes more from things outside of their control.

“We have a couple of issues with the vendors,” Jennison said. “ Some of them couldn’t get enough help. They legitimately wanted to be here, but when it came down to it they couldn’t get enough help.”

Jennison says fairs being canceled in Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska also weighed into the equation.

“We have vendors that really run the circuit that when it came down to it with Nebraska scaling back, Oklahoma scaling back and now Texas scaling back, it didn’t make much sense for some of those guys to come up to Kansas&nbsp; when that was the only place they would be going.”

Jennison says that there were also fears expressed by the public regarding close contact with each other during the pandemic, but expressed confidence that the fair could have been held safely.

“We heard from people who quite frankly were concerned for themselves,” Jennison said. “I really believed that when we get into September you’re going to see a lot of people doing exactly what our staff recommended and that’s the universal use of masks. I don’t think this society is going to stay shut down.”

Jennison says that people would have adjusted to the pandemic by the time the fair came to town.

“We’re confident that we would have gotten a good response from the people that come to the fair to social distance and to wear the masks, and we think it would have been safe,” Jennison said. “We were just putting a plan together to keep our staff safe. That was my goal is that we not have any of our 600 people that work the fair get sick, and so we were putting all of those plans in place and I think we had a good plan.”

The board is scheduled to meet Monday morning at 10 a.m. where a decision on this year’s fair will be made.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585171484470.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;By ROD ZOOK
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — After insisting they would host this year’s fair the Kansas State Fair Board will meet on Monday where they will take action on a proposal to reconsider holding the event after all. 
If approved by the Board the fair would be canceled for the first time in over 100 years. GM Robin Jennison says the change comes more from things outside of their control.“We have a couple of issues with the vendors,” Jennison said. “ Some of them couldn’t get enough help. They legitimately wanted to be here, but when it came down to it they couldn’t get enough help.”Jennison says fairs being canceled in Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska also weighed into the equation.“We have vendors that really run the circuit that when it came down to it with Nebraska scaling back, Oklahoma scaling back and now Texas scaling back, it didn’t make much sense for some of those guys to come up to Kansas&nbsp; when that was the only place they would be going.”Jennison says that there were also fears expressed by the public regarding close contact with each other during the pandemic, but expressed confidence that the fair could have been held safely.“We heard from people who quite frankly were concerned for themselves,” Jennison said. “I really believed that when we get into September you’re going to see a lot of people doing exactly what our staff recommended and that’s the universal use of masks. I don’t think this society is going to stay shut down.”Jennison says that people would have adjusted to the pandemic by the time the fair came to town.“We’re confident that we would have gotten a good response from the people that come to the fair to social distance and to wear the masks, and we think it would have been safe,” Jennison said. “We were just putting a plan together to keep our staff safe. That was my goal is that we not have any of our 600 people that work the fair get sick, and so we were putting all of those plans in place and I think we had a good plan.”The board is scheduled to meet Monday morning at 10 a.m. where a decision on this year’s fair will be made.

State Fair Board to meet Monday to reconsider hosting this year's fair

Governor Laura Kelly and KDOT Secretary Julie Lorenz announced the Spring 2020 round of Cost Share projects during a press conference Thursday morning.

Awardees included the&nbsp;Wheatridge Paving Extension in the city of Newton and the&nbsp;Cleveland Ave Intersection improvements in Sterling.

&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksdot.org/Assets/wwwksdotorg/CostShare/Spring_2020_Cost_Share_Award_List.pdf">Click here </a>to see a list all 24 awardees.

These are transportation construction projects funded through state and local partnerships. 

Thursday's announcement is the first round of cost share projects announced since the passage of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594310741538.png" alt="Rep. Tim Hodge of North Newton during Thursday's press conference" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Tim Hodge of North Newton during Thursday's press conference</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly and KDOT Secretary Julie Lorenz announced the Spring 2020 round of Cost Share projects during a press conference Thursday morning.Awardees included the&nbsp;Wheatridge Paving Extension in the city of Newton and the&nbsp;Cleveland Ave Intersection improvements in Sterling.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksdot.org/Assets/wwwksdotorg/CostShare/Spring_2020_Cost_Share_Award_List.pdf">Click here </a>to see a list all 24 awardees.These are transportation construction projects funded through state and local partnerships. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594310788887.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly attended the announcement" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly attended the announcement</figcaption>
 </figure>Thursday's announcement is the first round of cost share projects announced since the passage of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

 Newton among 2020 Cost Share Program awardees 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Due to the increased COVID-19 activity, recently seen in Reno County, the Chamber of Commerce announced Thursday that they are postponing the First Friday Coffee that was scheduled to take place this Friday, July 10th at Plains State Bank and will notify members when a new date is scheduled.

The Chamber will continue to evaluate all upcoming events on whether or not there is a need to modify, postpone, or cancel these events.&nbsp;

The Chamber asks its members to monitor the situation for potential changes to scheduled events. For more information go to hutchchamber.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594310460291.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Due to the increased COVID-19 activity, recently seen in Reno County, the Chamber of Commerce announced Thursday that they are postponing the First Friday Coffee that was scheduled to take place this Friday, July 10th at Plains State Bank and will notify members when a new date is scheduled.The Chamber will continue to evaluate all upcoming events on whether or not there is a need to modify, postpone, or cancel these events.&nbsp;The Chamber asks its members to monitor the situation for potential changes to scheduled events. For more information go to hutchchamber.com.

Chamber postpones First Friday Coffee


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Veterinarian Roy Russell from Country Junction in Hutchinson wants pet owners to be sure they are thinking ahead to keep their furry family members safe from ticks and fleas.

"Long-lasting injections, some of those have been going real well," Russell said. "The latest ones are the pills that they take. We have one now that is good for 12 weeks. The thing you have to be aware of or really watch is do these drugs get rid of the parasite that you want to get out? A lot of them will maybe give only flea control, but it won't say anything about the ticks."

It's also important to note if your pet has allergies.

"We're seeing more dogs coming in with severe allergies," Russell said. "We look at the records back and it's strange that a year ago the same week, we had the same problem. Some of these are just like grass allergies from going out or some from allergies in the house of carpets and dish soaps. This type of thing can create severe itching and really become a problem."

If you have questions about your pet, call your veterinarian. If you're looking for a vet, you can call Country Junction at (620) 663-6150.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594307897868.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Veterinarian Roy Russell from Country Junction in Hutchinson wants pet owners to be sure they are thinking ahead to keep their furry family members safe from ticks and fleas."Long-lasting injections, some of those have been going real well," Russell said. "The latest ones are the pills that they take. We have one now that is good for 12 weeks. The thing you have to be aware of or really watch is do these drugs get rid of the parasite that you want to get out? A lot of them will maybe give only flea control, but it won't say anything about the ticks."It's also important to note if your pet has allergies."We're seeing more dogs coming in with severe allergies," Russell said. "We look at the records back and it's strange that a year ago the same week, we had the same problem. Some of these are just like grass allergies from going out or some from allergies in the house of carpets and dish soaps. This type of thing can create severe itching and really become a problem."If you have questions about your pet, call your veterinarian. If you're looking for a vet, you can call Country Junction at (620) 663-6150.

Russell seeing a lot of flea and tick issues, allergies in pets this summer


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Artist Talk that was scheduled for July 16 with Sia Joung has been cancelled. 

The Hutchinson Art Center will still be open for Third Thursday until 8:00 that night with the new exhibit by Joung available for viewing.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591379933396.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Artist Talk that was scheduled for July 16 with Sia Joung has been cancelled. The Hutchinson Art Center will still be open for Third Thursday until 8:00 that night with the new exhibit by Joung available for viewing.&nbsp;

Artist Talk at Hutchinson Art Center cancelled for July 16

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Larry R. Magaee, 52, Utica, Mississippi, was&nbsp; westbound on U.S. 56 just west of 7th Avenue.

The semi rear-ended a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Joseph&nbsp;Balikowa, 44, Tulsa, OK., who had slowed&nbsp;down to make a left turn.

The 2015 Freightliner, carrying a load of baby chicks&nbsp; then entered the ditch, overturned and caught fire.

EMS transported a passenger in the 2015 semi Lester D. Curry, 58, Utica, Mississippi, to Wesley Medical Center.

Magaee and Balikowa were not transported for treatment. Curry was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594250929943.png" alt="Wednesday crash scene photo courtesy KHP" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday crash scene photo courtesy KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Larry R. Magaee, 52, Utica, Mississippi, was&nbsp; westbound on U.S. 56 just west of 7th Avenue.The semi rear-ended a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Joseph&nbsp;Balikowa, 44, Tulsa, OK., who had slowed&nbsp;down to make a left turn.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594250882930.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2015 Freightliner, carrying a load of baby chicks&nbsp; then entered the ditch, overturned and caught fire.EMS transported a passenger in the 2015 semi Lester D. Curry, 58, Utica, Mississippi, to Wesley Medical Center.Magaee and Balikowa were not transported for treatment. Curry was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

1 man hospitalized after semi carrying baby chicks crashes in McPherson Co.


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department clarified in a release Wednesday that they are not conducting COVID-19 testing. 

They are requesting that you call your medical provider if you believe you need to be tested.

If you do not have a medical provider, you can call Hutchinson Clinic at (620) 669-2500 or PrairieStar at (620) 663-8484, but both locations require that you call ahead to ensure test availability and to allow staff to follow proper infection protocol.

Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, wearing a mask when going out in public, limiting handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593790914635.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department clarified in a release Wednesday that they are not conducting COVID-19 testing. They are requesting that you call your medical provider if you believe you need to be tested.If you do not have a medical provider, you can call Hutchinson Clinic at (620) 669-2500 or PrairieStar at (620) 663-8484, but both locations require that you call ahead to ensure test availability and to allow staff to follow proper infection protocol.Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, wearing a mask when going out in public, limiting handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

Reno County Health Department not conducting COVID-19 testing

WICHITA —Dr. Garold Minns, Local Health Officer for Sedgwick County&nbsp; signed an Emergency Public Health Order Wednesday that will require any person within Sedgwick County to cover his or her mouth and nose with a mask or other face covering. 

According to a media release, the order also calls for Phase 3 of the Ad Astra Plan to be adopted and incorporated into this order along with limiting mass gatherings of more than 45 individuals in one location where social distancing is not available.

This order will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday morning, July 10, 2020 and to be in place until at least midnight Sunday night, August 9, 2020.

Specific expectations and exceptions to this rule are included in the document and can be <a href="https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/media/57378/july-8-local-health-officer-order.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1m1QpeGlZarvFHFLYXcAih-5wfBGMx6nQbQtOWT_v5x-aD3GAcO0jfjtE">found here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590784947764.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —Dr. Garold Minns, Local Health Officer for Sedgwick County&nbsp; signed an Emergency Public Health Order Wednesday that will require any person within Sedgwick County to cover his or her mouth and nose with a mask or other face covering. According to a media release, the order also calls for Phase 3 of the Ad Astra Plan to be adopted and incorporated into this order along with limiting mass gatherings of more than 45 individuals in one location where social distancing is not available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588354966337.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This order will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday morning, July 10, 2020 and to be in place until at least midnight Sunday night, August 9, 2020.Specific expectations and exceptions to this rule are included in the document and can be <a href="https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/media/57378/july-8-local-health-officer-order.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1m1QpeGlZarvFHFLYXcAih-5wfBGMx6nQbQtOWT_v5x-aD3GAcO0jfjtE">found here.</a>

Sedgwick County will require masks in public starting Friday

Hutchinson USD 308 looking for enrolees for 4-year-old preschool


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — According to Hutchinson USD 308, there was a COVID-19 exposure during summer volleyball and girls’ basketball workouts last week. Under the direction of the Reno County Health Department, athletes were notified of the exposure but not required to quarantine.

Families have been asked to monitor their athletes for symptoms and in the event the student develops symptoms they are to contact their physician or the Reno County Health Department at 620-694-2900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — According to Hutchinson USD 308, there was a COVID-19 exposure during summer volleyball and girls’ basketball workouts last week. Under the direction of the Reno County Health Department, athletes were notified of the exposure but not required to quarantine.Families have been asked to monitor their athletes for symptoms and in the event the student develops symptoms they are to contact their physician or the Reno County Health Department at 620-694-2900.

USD 308 athletes potentially exposed to COVID-19


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Dr. Mark Steffen’s campaign for the 34th District State Senate seat announced Wednesday it has been endorsed by the Kansas Chamber PAC. 

The Kansas Chamber PAC is the political action committee of the Kansas Chamber and represents the Kansas business community and job creators across Kansas. 

Steffen, a local physician, small business owner, oilman and farmer is running against incumbent Ed Berger for the Republican nomination in Kansas Senate District 34. 

“As the leading voice for the state’s business community, the Kansas Chamber’s policy and legislative success would not be possible without the Kansas Chamber PAC identifying and endorsing the election of free-enterprise, pro-business legislators,” said Alan Cobb, Kansas Chamber President and CEO. “If we want Kansas to be a top state to do business, we need to elect legislative champions who understand the fundamental role that business plays in the economic health of Kansas and who will promote legislation that lowers the cost of doing business in our great state.”

“I am honored by the Kansas Chamber PAC’s endorsement and look forward to working alongside them in Topeka to lower the tax burden on our families, jump-start our economy and crack down on Communist China for lying to the world about COVID-19," Dr. Steffen said. "My experience as a doctor, business owner and farmer has well prepared me to help Kansas during this incredibly challenging time.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593008647850.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Dr. Mark Steffen’s campaign for the 34th District State Senate seat announced Wednesday it has been endorsed by the Kansas Chamber PAC. The Kansas Chamber PAC is the political action committee of the Kansas Chamber and represents the Kansas business community and job creators across Kansas. Steffen, a local physician, small business owner, oilman and farmer is running against incumbent Ed Berger for the Republican nomination in Kansas Senate District 34. “As the leading voice for the state’s business community, the Kansas Chamber’s policy and legislative success would not be possible without the Kansas Chamber PAC identifying and endorsing the election of free-enterprise, pro-business legislators,” said Alan Cobb, Kansas Chamber President and CEO. “If we want Kansas to be a top state to do business, we need to elect legislative champions who understand the fundamental role that business plays in the economic health of Kansas and who will promote legislation that lowers the cost of doing business in our great state.”“I am honored by the Kansas Chamber PAC’s endorsement and look forward to working alongside them in Topeka to lower the tax burden on our families, jump-start our economy and crack down on Communist China for lying to the world about COVID-19," Dr. Steffen said. "My experience as a doctor, business owner and farmer has well prepared me to help Kansas during this incredibly challenging time.”The primary is August 4th.

Steffen endorsed by Kansas Chamber PAC in State Senate race


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman knows it is important to get back to school in buildings in August.

"We will open schools on August 13," Couchman said. "We will open schools as safely as possible, with as many safety precautions as can realistically be implemented and still open our buildings. We won't be able to mitigate all risk for our staff and students, but that mitigating the risk is our priority. We want to keep our staff and our students safe and we also know that we need to be in our buildings."

Couchman believes that the obstacles schools face can be overcome with a positive attitude and hope for the future.

"We've been provided this unique time in our school systems to really reimagine things," Couchman said. "That's really what hope is about, to imagine that tomorrow, it can be magical. We have great hope for this school year next year and expectations for high achievement."

The key to that is the concept of agency not only for administration, but for teachers and staff. It's about empowering everyone to work individually and together, no matter what the new school year throws at the district.

"We want to give our staff agency," Couchman said. "I want to give my administrators agency. Sometimes definitions change on that, but, for me, that sense of agency comes from writing your own script and being the hero in your own story. Giving that agency to our teachers and our staff and our administration is really, I think, the way that you build trust."

Couchman was one of three chairs of the Continuous Learning Task Force in March that helped put together the state's Continuous Learning Plan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594221759837.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman knows it is important to get back to school in buildings in August."We will open schools on August 13," Couchman said. "We will open schools as safely as possible, with as many safety precautions as can realistically be implemented and still open our buildings. We won't be able to mitigate all risk for our staff and students, but that mitigating the risk is our priority. We want to keep our staff and our students safe and we also know that we need to be in our buildings."Couchman believes that the obstacles schools face can be overcome with a positive attitude and hope for the future."We've been provided this unique time in our school systems to really reimagine things," Couchman said. "That's really what hope is about, to imagine that tomorrow, it can be magical. We have great hope for this school year next year and expectations for high achievement."The key to that is the concept of agency not only for administration, but for teachers and staff. It's about empowering everyone to work individually and together, no matter what the new school year throws at the district."We want to give our staff agency," Couchman said. "I want to give my administrators agency. Sometimes definitions change on that, but, for me, that sense of agency comes from writing your own script and being the hero in your own story. Giving that agency to our teachers and our staff and our administration is really, I think, the way that you build trust."Couchman was one of three chairs of the Continuous Learning Task Force in March that helped put together the state's Continuous Learning Plan.

Couchman: School will open in buildings in August


HARVEY COUNTY — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 54th and 55th cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County.

One confirmed case is a female in her 50s. She is in home isolation. This case is under investigation.

One confirmed case is a female in her 40s. She is in home isolation. The individual was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county.

Testing in both cases was completed by private labs. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all close contacts.

Harvey County has had 55 COVID-19 cases to date, including 51 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 15 known active cases in Harvey County. None of these individuals are currently hospitalized.

There have been 1,910 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

As of Monday, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 16,901 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 202,219 completed tests in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593790914635.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HARVEY COUNTY — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 54th and 55th cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County.One confirmed case is a female in her 50s. She is in home isolation. This case is under investigation.One confirmed case is a female in her 40s. She is in home isolation. The individual was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county.Testing in both cases was completed by private labs. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all close contacts.Harvey County has had 55 COVID-19 cases to date, including 51 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 15 known active cases in Harvey County. None of these individuals are currently hospitalized.There have been 1,910 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.As of Monday, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 16,901 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 202,219 completed tests in Kansas.

Harvey County confirms 54th, 55th cases of COVID-19, 15 active cases in county


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Americare operates Senior Living, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Memory Care across 144 communities in Missouri, Kansas, Tennessee, Illinois, and Mississippi, including Waldron Place in Hutchinson. 

In early March, when the signs of the COVID-19 pandemic were just beginning, Americare made the investments that have allowed their residents to stay connected with family and friends, even once quarantine procedures were required.

On March 13, all outside visitors to its facilities were discontinued and all group gatherings stopped. Americare believed that even though it was necessary to shut out visitors, that did not have to mean shutting down social and informational connections.

That meant an extensive investment in equipment, training and learning among staff and residents and families to ensure that residents did not feel isolated or cut off, and that families could feel connected and informed. It also meant an investment in training, protocols and tracking to stay ahead of potential issues across the company.

• iPads shipped to every community for resident use and training of staff to help residents keep in touch with loved ones.

• “Join Me” accounts for residents and families.

• Extra training for the facility Lifestyle Teams on various communications.

• Activity software on iPads and computers so residents can be physically active, mentally active and engaged through brain games and exercises.

• Enabling staff remote access to all property systems to provide care and help properties creating less need for property visits.

• Set up eFax capabilities to replace the multi-function device (print, scan, fax, copy) that is typically used by staff and residents thus eliminating potential cross contamination between non-COVID and COVID areas.

• Gathered emails for all resident family members for updates.

• Email protocols established and activated in any community with a COVID case to keep everyone informed (did not activate where there was no activity so as not to create alarm).

• Creation of an “our community and COVID” channel for updates to families online in communities with COVID activity.

• Developed a series of surveys and reports so the company and properties could see the impact/progression of the virus, staffing needs, and PPE availability.This snapshot allowed learnings from one community to be shared with others and ensured availability of people and equipment where needed when needed.

• An aggressive local media outreach to ensure that when there was a COVID issue at a property, the media would have the facts and no need to bother staff or families, thus protecting everyone.

• Extensive use of property level social media to give a window into the facility that helps ease the minds of families outside.

The actual medical equipment used was also upgraded for such items as vital signs monitoring so that taking vital signs and uploading them into systems was easier. This created more accessible data that gave a consolidated view for monitoring vitals and spotting areas of concern or trends in advance so that testing, treatment, and even quarantine decisions could be made faster and ahead of the virus’ potential progression.

“We believe the investments in technology made at the beginning of the pandemic and as we progressed through the months created an environment of communication to benefit the physical and mental health of residents and families, as well as creating lifestyle opportunities to keep residents engaged during this difficult time,” said Patricia Cokingtin, Senior Vice President of Americare. “In addition, our investments in staff training, software and database management put us in a position to identify issues and even potential issues and react to them in terms of supplies, personnel and evasive actions that we believe kept the virus contained within or even away from communities.”

For more information on how Americare facilities are addressing the coronavirus pandemic please visit <a href="https://www.americareusa.net/coronavirus">https://www.americareusa.net/coronavirus</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593167339950.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Americare operates Senior Living, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Memory Care across 144 communities in Missouri, Kansas, Tennessee, Illinois, and Mississippi, including Waldron Place in Hutchinson. In early March, when the signs of the COVID-19 pandemic were just beginning, Americare made the investments that have allowed their residents to stay connected with family and friends, even once quarantine procedures were required.On March 13, all outside visitors to its facilities were discontinued and all group gatherings stopped. Americare believed that even though it was necessary to shut out visitors, that did not have to mean shutting down social and informational connections.That meant an extensive investment in equipment, training and learning among staff and residents and families to ensure that residents did not feel isolated or cut off, and that families could feel connected and informed. It also meant an investment in training, protocols and tracking to stay ahead of potential issues across the company.Among the investments were:• iPads shipped to every community for resident use and training of staff to help residents keep in touch with loved ones.• “Join Me” accounts for residents and families.• Extra training for the facility Lifestyle Teams on various communications.• Activity software on iPads and computers so residents can be physically active, mentally active and engaged through brain games and exercises.• Enabling staff remote access to all property systems to provide care and help properties creating less need for property visits.• Set up eFax capabilities to replace the multi-function device (print, scan, fax, copy) that is typically used by staff and residents thus eliminating potential cross contamination between non-COVID and COVID areas.• Gathered emails for all resident family members for updates.• Email protocols established and activated in any community with a COVID case to keep everyone informed (did not activate where there was no activity so as not to create alarm).• Creation of an “our community and COVID” channel for updates to families online in communities with COVID activity.• Developed a series of surveys and reports so the company and properties could see the impact/progression of the virus, staffing needs, and PPE availability.This snapshot allowed learnings from one community to be shared with others and ensured availability of people and equipment where needed when needed.• An aggressive local media outreach to ensure that when there was a COVID issue at a property, the media would have the facts and no need to bother staff or families, thus protecting everyone.• Extensive use of property level social media to give a window into the facility that helps ease the minds of families outside.The actual medical equipment used was also upgraded for such items as vital signs monitoring so that taking vital signs and uploading them into systems was easier. This created more accessible data that gave a consolidated view for monitoring vitals and spotting areas of concern or trends in advance so that testing, treatment, and even quarantine decisions could be made faster and ahead of the virus’ potential progression.“We believe the investments in technology made at the beginning of the pandemic and as we progressed through the months created an environment of communication to benefit the physical and mental health of residents and families, as well as creating lifestyle opportunities to keep residents engaged during this difficult time,” said Patricia Cokingtin, Senior Vice President of Americare. “In addition, our investments in staff training, software and database management put us in a position to identify issues and even potential issues and react to them in terms of supplies, personnel and evasive actions that we believe kept the virus contained within or even away from communities.”For more information on how Americare facilities are addressing the coronavirus pandemic please visit <a href="https://www.americareusa.net/coronavirus">https://www.americareusa.net/coronavirus</a>.

Parent company of Waldron Place issues information on COVID-19 response

Haviland, KS – Kim Hansen, B.S.N, M.S.N, has been appointed as Director of Nursing Education at Barclay College.

The position will be responsible for directing the accreditation process for the anticipated Nursing Program featuring the BSN and RN degrees. In October 2019, the Board of Trustees approved and directed the administration to begin the process of developing a nursing program at Barclay College.

According to Dr. Royce Frazier, President of Barclay College, “As the only four-year accredited college in Southwest Kansas, we are keenly aware of the shortage of health care professionals, especially nurses in this part of the state. Moreover, nursing and health care continue to be the top growth degree programs in the United States.” He added, “Kim brings exceptional experience and is perfectly situated to help us gain accreditation for a program that will be based in a rich spiritual, faith foundation.”

Hansen previously taught in the Associated Degree Nursing (ADN) program at Hutchinson Community College. Prior to that she taught at Pratt Community College where she became the Director of Nursing. She earned a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certificate in 2007 and an ADN in 2008. She received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tabor College in 2010 and a Masters in Nursing Education from Fort Hays State University in 2014.

Barclay College is accredited by the&nbsp;Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. It is also recognized by the Kansas Board of Regents and is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education, the Association of Christian Schools International, and the Kansas State Department of Education. Barclay College is also a member of the Kansas Independent College Association (KICA).

Barclay College is a private faith-based school that offers a rigorous four-year academic program both for residential campus and online, with a solid biblical foundation for students with evangelical faith traditions. A School of Graduate Studies offers a Master of Arts degree in nine ministry concentrations. Its mission is to prepare students in a Bible-centered environment for effective Christian life, service, and leadership. 

A full tuition scholarship is given to campus students who live in the dorm. College supporters fund this program so that students can receive a quality education with little or no debt.

Applications are currently accepted for the Fall 2020 semester on campus.  Online programs start every six weeks.  Students may contact Admissions at (800) 862.0226 or by email at admissions@barclaycollege.edu.  They may also apply through the website at www.barclaycollege.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594217224356.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Haviland, KS – Kim Hansen, B.S.N, M.S.N, has been appointed as Director of Nursing Education at Barclay College.The position will be responsible for directing the accreditation process for the anticipated Nursing Program featuring the BSN and RN degrees. In October 2019, the Board of Trustees approved and directed the administration to begin the process of developing a nursing program at Barclay College.According to Dr. Royce Frazier, President of Barclay College, “As the only four-year accredited college in Southwest Kansas, we are keenly aware of the shortage of health care professionals, especially nurses in this part of the state. Moreover, nursing and health care continue to be the top growth degree programs in the United States.” He added, “Kim brings exceptional experience and is perfectly situated to help us gain accreditation for a program that will be based in a rich spiritual, faith foundation.”Hansen previously taught in the Associated Degree Nursing (ADN) program at Hutchinson Community College. Prior to that she taught at Pratt Community College where she became the Director of Nursing. She earned a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certificate in 2007 and an ADN in 2008. She received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Tabor College in 2010 and a Masters in Nursing Education from Fort Hays State University in 2014.Barclay College is accredited by the&nbsp;Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. It is also recognized by the Kansas Board of Regents and is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education, the Association of Christian Schools International, and the Kansas State Department of Education. Barclay College is also a member of the Kansas Independent College Association (KICA).Barclay College is a private faith-based school that offers a rigorous four-year academic program both for residential campus and online, with a solid biblical foundation for students with evangelical faith traditions. A School of Graduate Studies offers a Master of Arts degree in nine ministry concentrations. Its mission is to prepare students in a Bible-centered environment for effective Christian life, service, and leadership. A full tuition scholarship is given to campus students who live in the dorm. College supporters fund this program so that students can receive a quality education with little or no debt.Applications are currently accepted for the Fall 2020 semester on campus. Online programs start every six weeks. Students may contact Admissions at (800) 862.0226 or by email at admissions@barclaycollege.edu. They may also apply through the website at www.barclaycollege.edu.

Barclay College begins accreditation process for Nursing Program; Director of Nursing Education appointed to spearhead accreditation process


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;This year’s Hutchinson High School commencement exercises will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 25, at Gowans Stadium. The date has been moved up a day to provide an inclement weather backup day.

Due to the ever-changing nature of COVID-19 and the current uptick in cases across our county and state, the district, in conjunction with the Reno County Health Department, has decided upon a graduation format that promotes the health and safety of our graduates and their families.

Each graduate will be given four guest tickets. HHS also will be live-streaming the ceremony for those that cannot attend or are medically compromised. The link information for the live stream will be announced later.

Graduates need to be at Gowans Stadium on Saturday, July 25, by 8:20 a.m. to get lined up. The district is encouraging all families to wear masks and practice social distancing.

Graduation practice is at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, July 24, in the SAC and should conclude by 10 a.m. This is mandatory for any student walking in the ceremony. The four guest tickets will be given at practice.

The gates to Gowans Stadium will be open to the public at about 8 a.m. on July 25. Seating is first come first serve.

In case of inclement weather, the first alternative plan will be to have graduation at 9 a.m. Sunday, July 26, at Gowans. If it appears Saturday’s weather will not cooperate, staff will announce the alternate plan during practice on Friday, July 24.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;This year’s Hutchinson High School commencement exercises will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 25, at Gowans Stadium. The date has been moved up a day to provide an inclement weather backup day.Due to the ever-changing nature of COVID-19 and the current uptick in cases across our county and state, the district, in conjunction with the Reno County Health Department, has decided upon a graduation format that promotes the health and safety of our graduates and their families.Each graduate will be given four guest tickets. HHS also will be live-streaming the ceremony for those that cannot attend or are medically compromised. The link information for the live stream will be announced later.Graduates need to be at Gowans Stadium on Saturday, July 25, by 8:20 a.m. to get lined up. The district is encouraging all families to wear masks and practice social distancing.Graduation practice is at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, July 24, in the SAC and should conclude by 10 a.m. This is mandatory for any student walking in the ceremony. The four guest tickets will be given at practice.The gates to Gowans Stadium will be open to the public at about 8 a.m. on July 25. Seating is first come first serve.In case of inclement weather, the first alternative plan will be to have graduation at 9 a.m. Sunday, July 26, at Gowans. If it appears Saturday’s weather will not cooperate, staff will announce the alternate plan during practice on Friday, July 24.

Commencement in USD 308 set for July 25

KINGMAN COUNTY—Residents in Kingman continue to live with a water emergency.

On Tuesday evening, emergency management officials acquired 3-gallon jugs of water for distribution to those unable to afford water bottles, according to a media release from the city.

Authorities distributed the limited supply of water at the armory, one to each member of a household, on Tuesday evening and will continue to distribute water on Wednesday morning while supplies last.

On Tuesday afternoon, the city reported they had identified a blockage in the water line due to a faulty valve and repaired the issue for the wells south of the city.

&nbsp;The state's do not drink order will continue until the KDHE has completed test results on the water system.&nbsp;

Those wells feed the city of around 3000 people and a rural water district covering the eastern portion of Kingman County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594053743620.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN COUNTY—Residents in Kingman continue to live with a water emergency.On Tuesday evening, emergency management officials acquired 3-gallon jugs of water for distribution to those unable to afford water bottles, according to a media release from the city.Authorities distributed the limited supply of water at the armory, one to each member of a household, on Tuesday evening and will continue to distribute water on Wednesday morning while supplies last.On Tuesday afternoon, the city reported they had identified a blockage in the water line due to a faulty valve and repaired the issue for the wells south of the city.&nbsp;The state's do not drink order will continue until the KDHE has completed test results on the water system.&nbsp;Those wells feed the city of around 3000 people and a rural water district covering the eastern portion of Kingman County.

Water emergency continues in Kingman


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Kansas State Fair Board has chosen to go on with the 2020 event.

"The staff put together what we thought was the best plan if we were going to have a fair given the COVID situation," said General Manager Robin Jennison. "We've spent a lot of time studying it. I'm really pretty proud of the plan we put together. The board voted 8 to 5 to go ahead and have the plan. I think one of the things that's interesting is, in our plan, the main thing that we kind of hang our hat on is the use of facemasks."

Jennison notes that in the indoor settings at the fair and in the grandstand, social distancing is impossible to enforce.

"You need to take a mask," Jennison said. "You will be required to have a mask in the commercial buildings. You'll be required to have a mask in all the buildings. Anybody going to a grandstand show will be required to have a mask. Obviously, there will be times, and we've not worked through this, if someone goes to get something to eat, just like at a restaurant, they're not going to have their mask on. To get in the grandstand, you're going to have to have a mask on."

Jennison acknowledges that the fair will not be a risk-free environment, but that's true every year.

"History will judge whether we should have had the fair or not," Jennison said. "There's no doubt in my mind, at that point, if things don't change, somebody may come to the fair with COVID. Somebody may come to the fair and get COVID. My goal is to make sure that all 600 of our employees stay safe."

Jennison knows they will lose some fair goers because they are in high-risk groups or because they can't handle wearing a mask, but the board has decided that in this respect, it is time to go on with life and it is the staff's job to do that as safely as possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594205779878.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Kansas State Fair Board has chosen to go on with the 2020 event."The staff put together what we thought was the best plan if we were going to have a fair given the COVID situation," said General Manager Robin Jennison. "We've spent a lot of time studying it. I'm really pretty proud of the plan we put together. The board voted 8 to 5 to go ahead and have the plan. I think one of the things that's interesting is, in our plan, the main thing that we kind of hang our hat on is the use of facemasks."Jennison notes that in the indoor settings at the fair and in the grandstand, social distancing is impossible to enforce."You need to take a mask," Jennison said. "You will be required to have a mask in the commercial buildings. You'll be required to have a mask in all the buildings. Anybody going to a grandstand show will be required to have a mask. Obviously, there will be times, and we've not worked through this, if someone goes to get something to eat, just like at a restaurant, they're not going to have their mask on. To get in the grandstand, you're going to have to have a mask on."Jennison acknowledges that the fair will not be a risk-free environment, but that's true every year."History will judge whether we should have had the fair or not," Jennison said. "There's no doubt in my mind, at that point, if things don't change, somebody may come to the fair with COVID. Somebody may come to the fair and get COVID. My goal is to make sure that all 600 of our employees stay safe."Jennison knows they will lose some fair goers because they are in high-risk groups or because they can't handle wearing a mask, but the board has decided that in this respect, it is time to go on with life and it is the staff's job to do that as safely as possible.

The Masked Fair: 2020 event will be different, for sure


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Public Library patrons will now be able to browse the stacks and use the public computers beginning July 8. In a continuing effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Reno County, the library will provide special hours of operation to limit in-person contact and allow for cleaning. All of the “no-touch” services, such as the Library Material Pick Up Service, will still be available as preferred methods of accessing the library.

New hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Saturday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, and on Sundays, the library will be closed.

Library staff ask that patrons wear masks, especially if they want help outside of the service desk. While in the library, patrons will also be asked to maintain a distance of 6 feet away from staff and other patrons, and limit in-person contact by limiting time spent in the library.

Gregg Wamsley, Hutchinson Public Library Director, states, “The health and safety of our patrons, staff, and the community at large is our highest priority during this uncertain time. Our main goal is to strengthen our community by continuing to provide as much access as possible and the best library service possible while keeping everyone safe.”

Some of the safety procedures for staff include wearing masks, cleaning high-touch surfaces frequently, and quarantining materials. Patrons are required to return all materials in the 24-hour book drop behind the library as part of their quarantine process.  Staff quarantine materials in the library’s garage for 5 days before wiping them with virucide and then returning items to the shelves for check out. Materials handled inside the library, such as magazines, are to be placed on designated book carts for quarantine purposes.

“The library is a vital service in Hutchinson’s recovery efforts,” says Wamsley. “There were many services we’ve had to rethink how to proceed. We always strive to strengthen our community in a variety of ways including providing access to learning new job skills, job searching, assisting with research, small business development, and, of course, children’s learning programs.  And, we are still able to do these services, but now it is in a different, safer way.”

As public health and safety recommendations allow, the library will work toward a gradual reopening of more areas and services including opening meeting rooms and appointment times for the Makerspace and Reference computers.  

For more information about Hutchinson Public Library’s reopening process, visit their website at www.hutchpl.org or call 620-663-5441.

For the health and safety of others, please be thoughtful about coming into the library if you are exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms. Please do your part to stop the spread of germs and disease.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594153681276.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson Public Library patrons will now be able to browse the stacks and use the public computers beginning July 8. In a continuing effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Reno County, the library will provide special hours of operation to limit in-person contact and allow for cleaning. All of the “no-touch” services, such as the Library Material Pick Up Service, will still be available as preferred methods of accessing the library.New hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Saturday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, and on Sundays, the library will be closed.Library staff ask that patrons wear masks, especially if they want help outside of the service desk. While in the library, patrons will also be asked to maintain a distance of 6 feet away from staff and other patrons, and limit in-person contact by limiting time spent in the library.Gregg Wamsley, Hutchinson Public Library Director, states, “The health and safety of our patrons, staff, and the community at large is our highest priority during this uncertain time. Our main goal is to strengthen our community by continuing to provide as much access as possible and the best library service possible while keeping everyone safe.”Some of the safety procedures for staff include wearing masks, cleaning high-touch surfaces frequently, and quarantining materials. Patrons are required to return all materials in the 24-hour book drop behind the library as part of their quarantine process. Staff quarantine materials in the library’s garage for 5 days before wiping them with virucide and then returning items to the shelves for check out. Materials handled inside the library, such as magazines, are to be placed on designated book carts for quarantine purposes.“The library is a vital service in Hutchinson’s recovery efforts,” says Wamsley. “There were many services we’ve had to rethink how to proceed. We always strive to strengthen our community in a variety of ways including providing access to learning new job skills, job searching, assisting with research, small business development, and, of course, children’s learning programs. And, we are still able to do these services, but now it is in a different, safer way.”As public health and safety recommendations allow, the library will work toward a gradual reopening of more areas and services including opening meeting rooms and appointment times for the Makerspace and Reference computers. For more information about Hutchinson Public Library’s reopening process, visit their website at www.hutchpl.org or call 620-663-5441.If you are sick, please stay home.For the health and safety of others, please be thoughtful about coming into the library if you are exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms. Please do your part to stop the spread of germs and disease.

Hutchinson Public Library Reopening With Limited Services, Hours


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell is calling on the city council to give him some time to untangle the Gordian knot that is the conflict between property owners and code enforcement in Hutchinson.

"It's still a heated topic," Cantrell said. "It's still driving a lot of the discussion. I see it as an opportunity for me, because I spent 10 years building an award-winning department in Johnson County that led these very issues. I have a lot of ideas as to how we can make it better. I understand the issues. I understand that they are debatable. I understand the difference between proactive enforcement and complaint-based enforcement only. There's a lot of tools in the basket that we can employ to make cognizant change in this area."

Cantrell wants owners of property to know that the city intends to look at things differently under his leadership than maybe they have in the past.

"I think one of the changes and perhaps one of the most meaningful changes will come internally from the city and its management and its leadership and the culture that you guys speak of," Cantrell said. "I have had phone calls from individuals that own rental properties, that have investment properties in town and I know the difference of having properties back on the tax rolls and selling utilities that once weren't. I know the value of that. I appreciate it and I think staff that I'm working with does too. What they may not understand is that I have a mindset that is going to be slightly different than what they could be accustomed to. This will take a little bit of time for me to do."

Cantrell is going to take a few months to figure out the issues and he wants to see policy stay where it is until he can see what the problems are.

"I drive around," Cantrell said. "I look at the properties. I look for myself. I determine what the case file history has been. How have they been treated? I think that's important, too. Even if you're in violation and you're going to be taken to court and prosecuted, I think there's a tactful way to present that message with compassion. Most people in this community would make the repairs to their property if they had the money and the means to do so. It's not normally people wanting to just defy the city in an ordinance."

Cantrell wants to reset the relationship and have the opportunity to try that before changing any more policy. He has asked the council to give him the time for that and they appeared to have a consensus to allow him a few months in that endeavor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592409609109.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell is calling on the city council to give him some time to untangle the Gordian knot that is the conflict between property owners and code enforcement in Hutchinson."It's still a heated topic," Cantrell said. "It's still driving a lot of the discussion. I see it as an opportunity for me, because I spent 10 years building an award-winning department in Johnson County that led these very issues. I have a lot of ideas as to how we can make it better. I understand the issues. I understand that they are debatable. I understand the difference between proactive enforcement and complaint-based enforcement only. There's a lot of tools in the basket that we can employ to make cognizant change in this area."Cantrell wants owners of property to know that the city intends to look at things differently under his leadership than maybe they have in the past."I think one of the changes and perhaps one of the most meaningful changes will come internally from the city and its management and its leadership and the culture that you guys speak of," Cantrell said. "I have had phone calls from individuals that own rental properties, that have investment properties in town and I know the difference of having properties back on the tax rolls and selling utilities that once weren't. I know the value of that. I appreciate it and I think staff that I'm working with does too. What they may not understand is that I have a mindset that is going to be slightly different than what they could be accustomed to. This will take a little bit of time for me to do."Cantrell is going to take a few months to figure out the issues and he wants to see policy stay where it is until he can see what the problems are."I drive around," Cantrell said. "I look at the properties. I look for myself. I determine what the case file history has been. How have they been treated? I think that's important, too. Even if you're in violation and you're going to be taken to court and prosecuted, I think there's a tactful way to present that message with compassion. Most people in this community would make the repairs to their property if they had the money and the means to do so. It's not normally people wanting to just defy the city in an ordinance."Cantrell wants to reset the relationship and have the opportunity to try that before changing any more policy. He has asked the council to give him the time for that and they appeared to have a consensus to allow him a few months in that endeavor.