
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The speed of the special session of the Legislature this spring and the effects of COVID-19 on the regular session suggest that the Legislature could accomplish its work in less time, but Ed Berger doesn't want to throw the baby out with the bathwater.

"I think we could do it in fewer days," State Senator Ed Berger said. "This was a relatively short legislative session. We adjourned early because of the COVID-19 epidemic. That was on March 19th and didn't come back then until May. I think we could get things done a little quicker."

Berger is still a fan of the legislative process, though, even though most of that was worked around in the special session in the interest of speed.

"You have to have a process that allows complete vetting of legislation," Berger said. "I think that's really an important component of the process. We have to have input from all sides. We have to hear all arguments. Lots of times, even with this thorough vetting process that we have, there are unintended consequences of legislation."

The hope is that the normal deliberative process helps avoid some of those consequences.

"The real work happens in the committee environment," Berger said. "A legislator relies a lot on what happens in those committees. We take that committee recommendation and we challenge that committee with questions from the floor and then come to some kind of resolution."

That's not really how the special session worked. Legislative leadership and the Governor made a deal in advance and pushed it through the process without amendments. Such action makes it difficult for legislators that are not in leadership to get anything they want looked at.

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NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The speed of the special session of the Legislature this spring and the effects of COVID-19 on the regular session suggest that the Legislature could accomplish its work in less time, but Ed Berger doesn't want to throw the baby out with the bathwater."I think we could do it in fewer days," State Senator Ed Berger said. "This was a relatively short legislative session. We adjourned early because of the COVID-19 epidemic. That was on March 19th and didn't come back then until May. I think we could get things done a little quicker."Berger is still a fan of the legislative process, though, even though most of that was worked around in the special session in the interest of speed."You have to have a process that allows complete vetting of legislation," Berger said. "I think that's really an important component of the process. We have to have input from all sides. We have to hear all arguments. Lots of times, even with this thorough vetting process that we have, there are unintended consequences of legislation."The hope is that the normal deliberative process helps avoid some of those consequences."The real work happens in the committee environment," Berger said. "A legislator relies a lot on what happens in those committees. We take that committee recommendation and we challenge that committee with questions from the floor and then come to some kind of resolution."That's not really how the special session worked. Legislative leadership and the Governor made a deal in advance and pushed it through the process without amendments. Such action makes it difficult for legislators that are not in leadership to get anything they want looked at.

In spite of special session speed, Berger says process is important


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Over 200 Reno County drivers were pulled over as part of the Click-It or Ticket campaign in May.

The Sheriff's Office reported on Facebook Tuesday that 223 seat belt violations were written to adults, one child restraint violation for a child between 4 and 13 years old, eight driver's license violations, one insurance violation and a DUI arrest.

The campaign from KDOT via the National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration paid for 65 hours of enforcement between May 18th and 31st.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Over 200 Reno County drivers were pulled over as part of the Click-It or Ticket campaign in May.The Sheriff's Office reported on Facebook Tuesday that 223 seat belt violations were written to adults, one child restraint violation for a child between 4 and 13 years old, eight driver's license violations, one insurance violation and a DUI arrest.The campaign from KDOT via the National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration paid for 65 hours of enforcement between May 18th and 31st.

Over 200 citations written during seatbelt campaign in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The assessed valuations for the county increased over last year by a small margin.

The 2020 county total assessed value came in at $615,855,000. The city of Hutchinson assessed valuation for 2020 is $313,571,000. The increase in funding for Hutchinson will be around $313,000 while the increase for the county translates to about $800,000 at the current mill levy for both entities.

How that helps the city and county in the next budget cycle remains uncertain. County Administrator Randy Partington says they are still looking at between $1 million and $2 million in cuts for 2021.

Partington says they will hear budget presentations for the county department heads on June 25 and June 26.&nbsp;

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The assessed valuations for the county increased over last year by a small margin.The 2020 county total assessed value came in at $615,855,000. The city of Hutchinson assessed valuation for 2020 is $313,571,000. The increase in funding for Hutchinson will be around $313,000 while the increase for the county translates to about $800,000 at the current mill levy for both entities.How that helps the city and county in the next budget cycle remains uncertain. County Administrator Randy Partington says they are still looking at between $1 million and $2 million in cuts for 2021.Partington says they will hear budget presentations for the county department heads on June 25 and June 26.&nbsp;

Assessed values increase in Reno County

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Cutting is underway in Reno County as the hot, windy weather has pushed the wheat harvest into central Kansas.&nbsp;

The Farmers Co-Op in Pretty Prairie reported a steady run of trucks Monday with numbers looking good at 62 to 64 pounds per bushel and moisture run from 9% to 11%.

In Halstead, cutting is still sporadic, but officials report test weights are running more than 60 pounds per bushel and the quality appears to be good.&nbsp;

At the Mid Kansas Co-Op in Castleton, test weights are also above 60 and moisture is running from 9% to 13%. The MKC in Haven reports no activity so far as high moisture content was keeping farmers out of fields.

With hot, windy weather for the next couple of days followed by chances of rain, cutting is expected to ramp up quickly.

<figure>
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 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Cutting is underway in Reno County as the hot, windy weather has pushed the wheat harvest into central Kansas.&nbsp;The Farmers Co-Op in Pretty Prairie reported a steady run of trucks Monday with numbers looking good at 62 to 64 pounds per bushel and moisture run from 9% to 11%.In Halstead, cutting is still sporadic, but officials report test weights are running more than 60 pounds per bushel and the quality appears to be good.&nbsp;At the Mid Kansas Co-Op in Castleton, test weights are also above 60 and moisture is running from 9% to 13%. The MKC in Haven reports no activity so far as high moisture content was keeping farmers out of fields.With hot, windy weather for the next couple of days followed by chances of rain, cutting is expected to ramp up quickly.

Harvest underway in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System received a major donation of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy donated nearly $27,000 in PPE as part of its efforts to help the communities where it operates in the battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

The donation included approximately 6,700 KN95 masks, 5,400 three-ply masks and 243 isolation gowns.

Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS, said the gift could not be timelier as Hutch Regional continues its efforts to contain the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. “Getting enough PPE to protect our patient care team during the crisis has been a huge, uphill battle,” Johnson said. “The generous gift from Siemens Gamesa will help us to safely treat patients and keep our team healthy. We are very grateful for the generous donation.”

In a statement issued by Siemens Gamesa, the company said: “The impact of the crisis has been felt across the world and is likely to continue for some time. In response, Siemens Gamesa has launched a social campaign to allow its teams to help in the global fight against the pandemic.”

Doug Fulton, plant manager at the Hutchinson facility, lauded the contribution made by the company’s plant in Hutchinson. “As a company, we will play our part to help combat the crisis and put us back on the path to creating a sustainable future,” Fulton said.

Johnson added: “The donation of PPE will positively affect many people in our community. Good corporate citizenship is a part of the company’s mission and Hutchinson is a major beneficiary.”

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System received a major donation of personal protective equipment (PPE).Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy donated nearly $27,000 in PPE as part of its efforts to help the communities where it operates in the battle against the coronavirus pandemic.The donation included approximately 6,700 KN95 masks, 5,400 three-ply masks and 243 isolation gowns.Ken Johnson, president and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS, said the gift could not be timelier as Hutch Regional continues its efforts to contain the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. “Getting enough PPE to protect our patient care team during the crisis has been a huge, uphill battle,” Johnson said. “The generous gift from Siemens Gamesa will help us to safely treat patients and keep our team healthy. We are very grateful for the generous donation.”In a statement issued by Siemens Gamesa, the company said: “The impact of the crisis has been felt across the world and is likely to continue for some time. In response, Siemens Gamesa has launched a social campaign to allow its teams to help in the global fight against the pandemic.”Doug Fulton, plant manager at the Hutchinson facility, lauded the contribution made by the company’s plant in Hutchinson. “As a company, we will play our part to help combat the crisis and put us back on the path to creating a sustainable future,” Fulton said.Johnson added: “The donation of PPE will positively affect many people in our community. Good corporate citizenship is a part of the company’s mission and Hutchinson is a major beneficiary.”

Siemens Gamesa makes large PPE donation to HRHS

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Motorists who use Woodie Seat Freeway will have some construction work to deal with this week.

Work crews will be doing maintenance on the overpass Wednesday and Thursday, weather permitting. During the work, the southbound lanes will be closed for chip seal of the roadway. The chip seal will also close off the westbound off-ramp for chip sealing. The northbound lanes of the freeway and the eastbound off-ramp will stay open. Other locations of the freeway will be closed periodically during the work.&nbsp;

All of the freeway should be open by Friday. If you have any questions about this or any other city project, contact Public Works at 694-1900.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Motorists who use Woodie Seat Freeway will have some construction work to deal with this week.Work crews will be doing maintenance on the overpass Wednesday and Thursday, weather permitting. During the work, the southbound lanes will be closed for chip seal of the roadway. The chip seal will also close off the westbound off-ramp for chip sealing. The northbound lanes of the freeway and the eastbound off-ramp will stay open. Other locations of the freeway will be closed periodically during the work.&nbsp;All of the freeway should be open by Friday. If you have any questions about this or any other city project, contact Public Works at 694-1900.

Woodie Seat maintenance begins Wednesday

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

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

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 <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. — As of noon Monday, there are four active cases of COVID-19 among Reno County residents. Two of those are recovering out of state. Two others associated with community spread are currently fulfilling their required quarantine. Forty-six patients have recovered.

Currently Reno County has ran 2,104 tests with 2,055 negatives for a positive case rate of 2.33%. A total of 3.35% of Reno County has been tested thus far.

Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As of noon Monday, there are four active cases of COVID-19 among Reno County residents. Two of those are recovering out of state. Two others associated with community spread are currently fulfilling their required quarantine. Forty-six patients have recovered.Currently Reno County has ran 2,104 tests with 2,055 negatives for a positive case rate of 2.33%. A total of 3.35% of Reno County has been tested thus far.Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

Four active cases of COVID-19 attributed to Reno County; two recovering in the county

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It’s a light agenda for the Reno County Commissioners Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Board will take action on the appointment of Jackson Swearer as the county representative to the South Central Kansas Economic Development District. He replaces Jim Seitnater. The Board will also take time to discuss several maintenance projects for the courthouse.&nbsp;

The building has suffered some light damage due to the seismic activity over the past couple of years. The courthouse also needs windows replaced at a cost of more than $1.5 million.&nbsp;

The Commissioners will also get the weekly reports on the pandemic and pass the consent agenda. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It’s a light agenda for the Reno County Commissioners Tuesday.&nbsp;The Board will take action on the appointment of Jackson Swearer as the county representative to the South Central Kansas Economic Development District. He replaces Jim Seitnater. The Board will also take time to discuss several maintenance projects for the courthouse.&nbsp;The building has suffered some light damage due to the seismic activity over the past couple of years. The courthouse also needs windows replaced at a cost of more than $1.5 million.&nbsp;The Commissioners will also get the weekly reports on the pandemic and pass the consent agenda. Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Co Commission to discuss courthouse maintenance projects


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Thanks to the generosity of Eagle Radio listeners and Hutch Post readers, CASA of Reno County will receive over $5000.

Listeners and readers contributed $2638 for the Visions of Hope Radiothon last week. The Schmidt Foundation will match that contribution with its own $2638, for a total of $5276 to be contributed.

Reno County CASA is a non-profit that works directly with the court system, with the juvenile courts. Volunteers become the eyes and ears of the court and make recommendations to the court for what could be in the child's best interest.

The juvenile court system in Reno County typically hears over 300 cases of suspected abuse and neglect a year.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Thanks to the generosity of Eagle Radio listeners and Hutch Post readers, CASA of Reno County will receive over $5000.Listeners and readers contributed $2638 for the Visions of Hope Radiothon last week. The Schmidt Foundation will match that contribution with its own $2638, for a total of $5276 to be contributed.Reno County CASA is a non-profit that works directly with the court system, with the juvenile courts. Volunteers become the eyes and ears of the court and make recommendations to the court for what could be in the child's best interest.The juvenile court system in Reno County typically hears over 300 cases of suspected abuse and neglect a year.

Reno County CASA to receive over $5000

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has released details of how they will distribute their share of the CDBG-CV grant money. The county received $132,000 to help small businesses that employ low to medium-income households.

To be eligible the business must be in the county, have 50 or fewer employees, and must have at least 51% of their workforce in the low to medium income bracket.

The county is making $5,000 available to employers with a workforce of five or fewer and $10,000 to those with a workforce of five to 50.

Grant funds are to be used for working capital such as employee wages, rent, mortgage payments, utilities, and to purchase up to 60 days of inventory needed to reopen the business. The County anticipates being able to assist approximately 10 small businesses within Reno County with the funds awarded to the County.

Applications and more information can be found at renogov.org. The deadline to submit an application for assistance is July 2.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County has released details of how they will distribute their share of the CDBG-CV grant money. The county received $132,000 to help small businesses that employ low to medium-income households.To be eligible the business must be in the county, have 50 or fewer employees, and must have at least 51% of their workforce in the low to medium income bracket.The county is making $5,000 available to employers with a workforce of five or fewer and $10,000 to those with a workforce of five to 50.Grant funds are to be used for working capital such as employee wages, rent, mortgage payments, utilities, and to purchase up to 60 days of inventory needed to reopen the business. The County anticipates being able to assist approximately 10 small businesses within Reno County with the funds awarded to the County.Applications and more information can be found at renogov.org. The deadline to submit an application for assistance is July 2.

County CDBG-CV applications now available


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Wow, we blew right through spring and are bearing down on summer, and in the Farm Bureau world that means annual meeting time is right around the corner. Annual meetings are vital in the life of our organization and something many members look forward to. It is a time to conduct the business of our organization but also a time to fellowship with our neighbors and friends.

Just like our policy positions, the decision on each county’s annual meeting is left up to the grassroots level and your local board is deciding what your meeting will look like this year.

Some may decide the risk is low in their county and continue with their traditional annual meeting, and that is fine. However, many of our local boards will decide a different mode of annual meeting needs to happen this year. It may be a business only meeting, meant to lessen the time we spend together and therefore lower the risk of passing a virus on. I suppose some may take the route of a ”virtual” annual meeting utilizing the technology available to us. That is the lowest risk option and may be the best in some areas.

No matter what type of meeting your county decides to have, you can rest assured  the board did it with the health and wellbeing of their fellow farmers and ranchers in mind. It may not look like the annual meeting we are used to, and that may be a cause of disappointment. Hopefully it will be a one-time measure. You can rest assured that the decision was made after a great deal of thought and planning with the best interest of everyone in mind.

On a similar note, continue to check in with us on news about Kansas Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting. That seems like a long way down the road, but I am sure that December will be here before we know it. Just know your state staff and board members are also watching the situation closely and developing alternate plans with the hope they’re not needed. I promise you when a decision is made, it will be just like the one at your county level and have the best interest and safety of all members in mind.

We have never done anything like this before because we have never seen anything like this before. Patience is a virtue, and we want to make sure that all members are safe and healthy. Hang in there, take the proper precautions and we will all make it through this healthy and happy and ready for annual meetings in 2021. It will be worth it.

"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. 

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Wow, we blew right through spring and are bearing down on summer, and in the Farm Bureau world that means annual meeting time is right around the corner. Annual meetings are vital in the life of our organization and something many members look forward to. It is a time to conduct the business of our organization but also a time to fellowship with our neighbors and friends.Just like our policy positions, the decision on each county’s annual meeting is left up to the grassroots level and your local board is deciding what your meeting will look like this year.Some may decide the risk is low in their county and continue with their traditional annual meeting, and that is fine. However, many of our local boards will decide a different mode of annual meeting needs to happen this year. It may be a business only meeting, meant to lessen the time we spend together and therefore lower the risk of passing a virus on. I suppose some may take the route of a ”virtual” annual meeting utilizing the technology available to us. That is the lowest risk option and may be the best in some areas.No matter what type of meeting your county decides to have, you can rest assured the board did it with the health and wellbeing of their fellow farmers and ranchers in mind. It may not look like the annual meeting we are used to, and that may be a cause of disappointment. Hopefully it will be a one-time measure. You can rest assured that the decision was made after a great deal of thought and planning with the best interest of everyone in mind.On a similar note, continue to check in with us on news about Kansas Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting. That seems like a long way down the road, but I am sure that December will be here before we know it. Just know your state staff and board members are also watching the situation closely and developing alternate plans with the hope they’re not needed. I promise you when a decision is made, it will be just like the one at your county level and have the best interest and safety of all members in mind.We have never done anything like this before because we have never seen anything like this before. Patience is a virtue, and we want to make sure that all members are safe and healthy. Hang in there, take the proper precautions and we will all make it through this healthy and happy and ready for annual meetings in 2021. It will be worth it."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: Patience and Precaution

Summer reading at Hutchinson Public Library is underway. The library encourages you to download the Reader Zone app, set up your account and add your readers.

Goal 1 – Read 10 books or for 10 hours. Prizes earned = art supplies! And, you can nominate hair colors for Children’s Services Staff to dye their hair!

Goal 2 – Read 25 books or for 25 hours. Prizes earned = a free book and summer reading tote bag!

Goal 3 – Read 50 books or 50 hours Prizes earned = a toy, and your name will be entered in a chance to win a 3 month subcription box! PLUS, you will have a vote for the top three colors picked for library staff to color their hair!

Log titles you read in the Reader Zone app. Your name will be added to a weekly prize drawing. Read 10 books by August 15, and you will be entered for a chance to win one of three grand prizes.

Paper reading logs are also available upon request. You can call for a log at 620-663-5441.

Download Reader Zone from <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.readerzone2.app&amp;hl=en_US">Google Play</a>&nbsp;or the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/reader-zone/id1474405363">App Store</a>&nbsp;or go <a href="http://readerzone.com/">here</a> on your desktop.

<figure>
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 </figure>Summer reading at Hutchinson Public Library is underway. The library encourages you to download the Reader Zone app, set up your account and add your readers.Use the code 87680 to get started!Children's ProgramGoal 1 – Read 10 books or for 10 hours. Prizes earned = art supplies! And, you can nominate hair colors for Children’s Services Staff to dye their hair!Goal 2 – Read 25 books or for 25 hours. Prizes earned = a free book and summer reading tote bag!Goal 3 – Read 50 books or 50 hours Prizes earned = a toy, and your name will be entered in a chance to win a 3 month subcription box! PLUS, you will have a vote for the top three colors picked for library staff to color their hair!Adults and Young AdultsLog titles you read in the Reader Zone app. Your name will be added to a weekly prize drawing. Read 10 books by August 15, and you will be entered for a chance to win one of three grand prizes.Paper reading logs are also available upon request. You can call for a log at 620-663-5441.Download Reader Zone from <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.readerzone2.app&amp;hl=en_US">Google Play</a>&nbsp;or the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/reader-zone/id1474405363">App Store</a>&nbsp;or go <a href="http://readerzone.com/">here</a> on your desktop.

Summer reading program going at Hutchinson Public Library


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The high school tennis coach at Hutchinson Trinity will not be renewed after a racist post on Facebook. 

According to the school on Saturday, after an investigation, Thomas Harris will not be renewed. 

"We stand by our mission statement at Trinity Catholic, which is to unite parish, home, and school into a Catholic learning community, dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth, while forming stewards and leaders who value diversity and service to God and society."

Harris posted a meme using a racial slur on his personal Facebook page. 2020 was his first season coaching boys and girls tennis at Trinity. He is a 2006 Trinity graduate.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The high school tennis coach at Hutchinson Trinity will not be renewed after a racist post on Facebook. According to the school on Saturday, after an investigation, Thomas Harris will not be renewed. "We stand by our mission statement at Trinity Catholic, which is to unite parish, home, and school into a Catholic learning community, dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth, while forming stewards and leaders who value diversity and service to God and society."Harris posted a meme using a racial slur on his personal Facebook page. 2020 was his first season coaching boys and girls tennis at Trinity. He is a 2006 Trinity graduate.

Trinity Catholic will not renew tennis coach's contract


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Even though COVID-19 has taken SmallvilleCon for 2020, the City of Hutchinson is still doing its annual proclamation as part of its regular agenda for Tuesday. 

SmallvilleCon will return June 19 and 20 of 2021 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

Also on the agenda for Tuesday, an appointment of David Abel Sotelo Holguin to the Hutchinson Human Relations Commission, an approval of a contract with the Friends of the Zoo for reimbursement of seasonal rehabilitation assistant expense, an approval of an addendum to a contract with Reno County for RCAT benches in the city through 2024, an approval of the City's 2019 Audit and reports of City officials.

The meeting is Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. at City Hall and can be watched live on the City's YouTube channel.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Even though COVID-19 has taken SmallvilleCon for 2020, the City of Hutchinson is still doing its annual proclamation as part of its regular agenda for Tuesday. SmallvilleCon will return June 19 and 20 of 2021 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.Also on the agenda for Tuesday, an appointment of David Abel Sotelo Holguin to the Hutchinson Human Relations Commission, an approval of a contract with the Friends of the Zoo for reimbursement of seasonal rehabilitation assistant expense, an approval of an addendum to a contract with Reno County for RCAT benches in the city through 2024, an approval of the City's 2019 Audit and reports of City officials.The meeting is Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. at City Hall and can be watched live on the City's YouTube channel.

City still doing Smallville proclamation even with cancellation Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A Moundridge man was killed in an accident at Avenue G and K-61 Saturday night.

According to Hutchinson Police, 78-year-old Glen V. Koch of Moundridge was killed when his motorcycle was struck by a vehicle driven by 70-year-old Sophia Mendoza of Hutchinson.

The report was filed just after 8 p.m. Saturday.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A Moundridge man was killed in an accident at Avenue G and K-61 Saturday night.According to Hutchinson Police, 78-year-old Glen V. Koch of Moundridge was killed when his motorcycle was struck by a vehicle driven by 70-year-old Sophia Mendoza of Hutchinson.The report was filed just after 8 p.m. Saturday.

One killed in accident Saturday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Between 10 and 15 protesters walked down Plum Street south from 23rd to 11th in 96 degree heat Sunday night, making the third straight weekend with some form of protest or rally regarding Black Lives Matter in Hutchinson.

"Everybody's like, why do you keep protesting?" said organizer Teresa Delgado. "Things keep happening. It's not stopping and, in essence, it's getting worse right now, so I feel like we should all just keep fighting the good fight."

After a discussion with Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper, Delgado agreed to have this weekend's march down Plum, as opposed to last weekend's on Main Street.

"I chose the last one on Main Street up past 11th toward 30th because, like I said, there's obviously a divide in the community and so we wanted to get up north. Now, we're like by state grounds."

One unmarked police vehicle was across the street on State Fair Road watching, but other than that, there was no visible police presence Sunday evening. Delgado talked about the progress she hopes can be made between persons of color and the police in the context of her youngest son, who is biracial and is just one and a half.

"It would be a lot easier, I guess, if as he gets older I didn't have to have that talk with him, hands up, comply, don't talk, don't do this, don't do that, and he's able to go out there and just enjoy his childhood and enjoy his youth."

In addition to the handful of marchers, several vehicles passed by and honked their horns or raised fists in support.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592179307779.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Between 10 and 15 protesters walked down Plum Street south from 23rd to 11th in 96 degree heat Sunday night, making the third straight weekend with some form of protest or rally regarding Black Lives Matter in Hutchinson."Everybody's like, why do you keep protesting?" said organizer Teresa Delgado. "Things keep happening. It's not stopping and, in essence, it's getting worse right now, so I feel like we should all just keep fighting the good fight."After a discussion with Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper, Delgado agreed to have this weekend's march down Plum, as opposed to last weekend's on Main Street."I chose the last one on Main Street up past 11th toward 30th because, like I said, there's obviously a divide in the community and so we wanted to get up north. Now, we're like by state grounds."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592179347604.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>One unmarked police vehicle was across the street on State Fair Road watching, but other than that, there was no visible police presence Sunday evening. Delgado talked about the progress she hopes can be made between persons of color and the police in the context of her youngest son, who is biracial and is just one and a half."It would be a lot easier, I guess, if as he gets older I didn't have to have that talk with him, hands up, comply, don't talk, don't do this, don't do that, and he's able to go out there and just enjoy his childhood and enjoy his youth."In addition to the handful of marchers, several vehicles passed by and honked their horns or raised fists in support.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592179380268.jpeg" alt="Delgado BLM 06142020" />
 <figcaption>Delgado BLM 06142020</figcaption>
 </figure>

Protest small and peaceful Sunday in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Former Kansas Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann ran for Congress once before in 2010, but now he's got more experience as he looks at the Big First seat in 2020.

"Politics were off my radar, but they got on my radar in a big way when I was appointed by Jeff Colyer to serve as his lieutenant governor," Mann said. "I served as the 50th lieutenant governor of Kansas. That put politics back on my radar, and now, with the seat opening with Roger Marshall running for the U.S. Senate, I decided to run for this open Congressional seat here in the Big First."

Mann grew up on a farm near Quinter, which he believes gives him the perspective needed to represent the district's agricultural interests.

"Agriculture is the biggest driver of our economy in the Big First," Mann said. "Hutch, Salina, McPherson also are impacted by commodity prices. When commodity prices are high, when agriculture does well, there's more money to spend on Main Street in Reno County and across the district."

It's vitally important, in Mann's opinion, that the Big First's representative be on the House Agriculture committee.

"I think we'd be amazed to know how many members of the House Ag committee have never really toured a modern farm today, that really understand where their meat comes from, where their products come from," Mann said. "I think, through this COVID thing, I think a lot of people in urban areas of our country have been so used to going to the grocery stores and having fewer worries that there will be everything on the shelf. I think there's an increased appreciation for farmers and ranchers and I would like to carry that momentum to the House Ag committee."

Mann was endorsed recently by the Kansas Farm Bureau for the First District's Republican nomination.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591976850719.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Former Kansas Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann ran for Congress once before in 2010, but now he's got more experience as he looks at the Big First seat in 2020."Politics were off my radar, but they got on my radar in a big way when I was appointed by Jeff Colyer to serve as his lieutenant governor," Mann said. "I served as the 50th lieutenant governor of Kansas. That put politics back on my radar, and now, with the seat opening with Roger Marshall running for the U.S. Senate, I decided to run for this open Congressional seat here in the Big First."Mann grew up on a farm near Quinter, which he believes gives him the perspective needed to represent the district's agricultural interests."Agriculture is the biggest driver of our economy in the Big First," Mann said. "Hutch, Salina, McPherson also are impacted by commodity prices. When commodity prices are high, when agriculture does well, there's more money to spend on Main Street in Reno County and across the district."It's vitally important, in Mann's opinion, that the Big First's representative be on the House Agriculture committee."I think we'd be amazed to know how many members of the House Ag committee have never really toured a modern farm today, that really understand where their meat comes from, where their products come from," Mann said. "I think, through this COVID thing, I think a lot of people in urban areas of our country have been so used to going to the grocery stores and having fewer worries that there will be everything on the shelf. I think there's an increased appreciation for farmers and ranchers and I would like to carry that momentum to the House Ag committee."Mann was endorsed recently by the Kansas Farm Bureau for the First District's Republican nomination.

Mann more experienced for this Big First run

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Concerns about the pandemic and questions about whether polls will be open for the August primary are showing up at the Reno County Clerk's Office.&nbsp;

Jenna Fager of the Elections Office says that, so far, they have received 3,973 advanced ballot requests. That compares with 827 requests in the 2016 primary election. The county recently sent out more than 30,000 applications to registered voters offering the chance to apply for an advanced ballot.&nbsp;

Fager wanted to stress that the polls will be open for the primary and general elections, and measures will be taken to keep workers and the voting public safe.

The deadline for submitting an application for an advanced ballot is July 28.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589332490890.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Concerns about the pandemic and questions about whether polls will be open for the August primary are showing up at the Reno County Clerk's Office.&nbsp;Jenna Fager of the Elections Office says that, so far, they have received 3,973 advanced ballot requests. That compares with 827 requests in the 2016 primary election. The county recently sent out more than 30,000 applications to registered voters offering the chance to apply for an advanced ballot.&nbsp;Fager wanted to stress that the polls will be open for the primary and general elections, and measures will be taken to keep workers and the voting public safe.The deadline for submitting an application for an advanced ballot is July 28.

Applications for advanced voting rolling into clerk's office

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — StartUp Hutch, formerly known as The Quest Center, announced Friday the addition of five new members to its board of directors. The new additions are Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti, Scott Cooley of Heartland Credit Union, Eric Spurgeon with Tarhun 3D, Anna Woods of SheStrength and Melinda Young from Bretz &amp; Young Injury Lawyers.

StartUp Hutch fosters an entrepreneur community through online and in-person activities and helps entrepreneurs navigate the business start-up process. It also provides services such as loan assistance, business plan review and succession planning.&nbsp;

“Our new board members bring diverse business experiences and will be key in helping us set the tone for our new direction,” Jackson Swearer, StartUp Hutch program director and entrepreneur navigator, said. “They understand if Reno County wants to grow start-up businesses, it’s going to take many groups coming together with a common goal and I believe we have a great team assembled to do this important work.”

Other board members include Daniel Friesen, board chair, IdeaTek; Jeni Bryan, vice-chair, Jackson Meat; and Julia Doerksen, treasurer, First National Bank of Hutchinson.

For more information and entrepreneurship resources, visit <a href="http://StartUpHutch.com">StartUpHutch.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591998538579.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — StartUp Hutch, formerly known as The Quest Center, announced Friday the addition of five new members to its board of directors. The new additions are Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti, Scott Cooley of Heartland Credit Union, Eric Spurgeon with Tarhun 3D, Anna Woods of SheStrength and Melinda Young from Bretz &amp; Young Injury Lawyers.StartUp Hutch fosters an entrepreneur community through online and in-person activities and helps entrepreneurs navigate the business start-up process. It also provides services such as loan assistance, business plan review and succession planning.&nbsp;“Our new board members bring diverse business experiences and will be key in helping us set the tone for our new direction,” Jackson Swearer, StartUp Hutch program director and entrepreneur navigator, said. “They understand if Reno County wants to grow start-up businesses, it’s going to take many groups coming together with a common goal and I believe we have a great team assembled to do this important work.”Other board members include Daniel Friesen, board chair, IdeaTek; Jeni Bryan, vice-chair, Jackson Meat; and Julia Doerksen, treasurer, First National Bank of Hutchinson.For more information and entrepreneurship resources, visit <a href="http://StartUpHutch.com">StartUpHutch.com</a>.

StartUp Hutch announces new board members

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will hold its regular meeting on Monday.

The Board will go over several maintenance issues including the purchase of HVAC units for the middle school cafeteria, foyer and band room along with the Nickerson Elementary School safe room. The work will cost the district $23,300.

Also Monday the Board will consider extending Dr. Jeanne Strohs contract through the end of July. Stroh has been the interim Superintendent for Dr. Dawn Johnson while she attends the Military College in Washington DC.

And the District will go over several personnel matters including salary increases for classified staff.

Monday’s meeting fo the Nickerson School Board begins at 7 p.m. at the district offices at 4501 West 4th Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943325915.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will hold its regular meeting on Monday.The Board will go over several maintenance issues including the purchase of HVAC units for the middle school cafeteria, foyer and band room along with the Nickerson Elementary School safe room. The work will cost the district $23,300.Also Monday the Board will consider extending Dr. Jeanne Strohs contract through the end of July. Stroh has been the interim Superintendent for Dr. Dawn Johnson while she attends the Military College in Washington DC.And the District will go over several personnel matters including salary increases for classified staff.Monday’s meeting fo the Nickerson School Board begins at 7 p.m. at the district offices at 4501 West 4th Avenue.

USD 309 to consider contract extension for Stroh

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man who was arrested for embezzling more than $380,000 from a local company will spend the next 11 years in prison after his sentencing Friday afternoon in Reno County District Court.

Fifty-four-year-old Anthony Mills could have been looking at even more time, but the sentence will run concurrent to a lengthy prison sentence he will serve in Colorado for a previous crime involving an unlawful sexual relationship.

Mills was convicted of embezzlement and computer crimes after taking the money from B &amp; B Hydraulics. The defense in the case had asked for community corrections, saying it would allow Mills to pay restitution in the case. But the prosecution noted the representatives of B &amp; B felt that any chance of meaningful restitution was not likely to happen and asked for the maximum sentence.

It was back in March that law enforcement learned Mills had used company funds to pay personal debts from 2017 to the present. Through the investigation, detectives determined that the total loss was approximately $384,000 over a three-year period.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mills was also sentenced for failing to register as an offender from his Colorado case. In arguing against any community corrections for Mills, the prosecution noted that Mills was still having contact with the victim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579293294698.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man who was arrested for embezzling more than $380,000 from a local company will spend the next 11 years in prison after his sentencing Friday afternoon in Reno County District Court.Fifty-four-year-old Anthony Mills could have been looking at even more time, but the sentence will run concurrent to a lengthy prison sentence he will serve in Colorado for a previous crime involving an unlawful sexual relationship.Mills was convicted of embezzlement and computer crimes after taking the money from B &amp; B Hydraulics. The defense in the case had asked for community corrections, saying it would allow Mills to pay restitution in the case. But the prosecution noted the representatives of B &amp; B felt that any chance of meaningful restitution was not likely to happen and asked for the maximum sentence.It was back in March that law enforcement learned Mills had used company funds to pay personal debts from 2017 to the present. Through the investigation, detectives determined that the total loss was approximately $384,000 over a three-year period.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mills was also sentenced for failing to register as an offender from his Colorado case. In arguing against any community corrections for Mills, the prosecution noted that Mills was still having contact with the victim.

Man sentenced to nearly 11 years in embezzlement case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the issues that has popped up during discussion between the NAACP and Hutchinson police in building better relations is the lack of relationships with youth.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson NAACP Youth saw a need for events where youth can build relationships with and express their concerns with HPD in a relaxed environment.&nbsp;

So, they will be hosting what they are calling the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/655475595183049/">Bridgebuilders Barbecue</a>. The event is being held with the College Youth division of the NAACP, Hutch in Harmony, HPD and the City of Hutchinson all hosting. The event will be held on June 26 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Rice Park.

HPD expressed hope that the event can be a springboard for the creation of a youth advisory group for the department. All will happen around activities and delicious barbecue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591092788258.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the issues that has popped up during discussion between the NAACP and Hutchinson police in building better relations is the lack of relationships with youth.&nbsp;The Hutchinson NAACP Youth saw a need for events where youth can build relationships with and express their concerns with HPD in a relaxed environment.&nbsp;So, they will be hosting what they are calling the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/655475595183049/">Bridgebuilders Barbecue</a>. The event is being held with the College Youth division of the NAACP, Hutch in Harmony, HPD and the City of Hutchinson all hosting. The event will be held on June 26 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Rice Park.HPD expressed hope that the event can be a springboard for the creation of a youth advisory group for the department. All will happen around activities and delicious barbecue.

Local agencies and police to come together for barbecue

HAVEN, Kan. — Haven and several other small communities in the area are going to feel the financial hit handed to them by Evergy.

Haven gets its power from the Kansas Power Pool and then sets its rates to city residents.&nbsp;

Evergy is in the process of building a new substation near Burrton replacing one that has past its life cycle. But that means the utility is passing the cost of building on to customers and those in the power pool.

Evergy notified Haven that their monthly Wholesale Distribution Service Charge will increase from $4,000.00 per month to $11,839 per month. The increase amounts to $94-thousand per year. The increase also affects the town of Mt. Hope.

City Clerk Leslie Atherton has urged the City Council to not pass the increase onto residents for now. The changes take effect next year which could give the community some time to prepare for the increase while dealing with budget shortfalls connected to the pandemic.

The new substation is expected to be online by the end of the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090767638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — Haven and several other small communities in the area are going to feel the financial hit handed to them by Evergy.Haven gets its power from the Kansas Power Pool and then sets its rates to city residents.&nbsp;Evergy is in the process of building a new substation near Burrton replacing one that has past its life cycle. But that means the utility is passing the cost of building on to customers and those in the power pool.Evergy notified Haven that their monthly Wholesale Distribution Service Charge will increase from $4,000.00 per month to $11,839 per month. The increase amounts to $94-thousand per year. The increase also affects the town of Mt. Hope.City Clerk Leslie Atherton has urged the City Council to not pass the increase onto residents for now. The changes take effect next year which could give the community some time to prepare for the increase while dealing with budget shortfalls connected to the pandemic.The new substation is expected to be online by the end of the year.

Haven facing service increase from Evergy

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In response to challenges presented by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees approved a revised calendar for the fall 2020 semester at its June 11 meeting.&nbsp;

“We’ve been evaluating this opportunity or possibility for awhile,” college spokesperson Denny Stoecklein said. “We thought it would minimize the risk of having the students go home for Thanksgiving then come back to campus for two weeks.”

The revised calendar moves up the start date of classes to Aug. 12 from Aug. 19, it eliminates the scheduled Fall Break Day of Oct. 9 and moves Finals Week to the week of Nov. 30 instead of the previously-scheduled week of Dec. 7. Finals will be conducted online, eliminating the need for students to return to campus after Thanksgiving break. Stoecklein says, at this time, that is the only change to the calendar for the year.

“We thought it was best just to wrap up the face-to-face interactions before they would depart at Thanksgiving,” Stoecklein said. “That would give them an extended break for Christmas, but also not have that potential for going home and possibly being exposed to the virus and then coming back to campus.”&nbsp;

So far, the fall semester is the only change made by the college.

“There are no changes being planned for the spring semester,” Stoecklein said. “We anticipate coming back, we’re scheduled to come back, and moving forward with that.”

Stoecklein added that it’s only June and anything can change.

As far as athletics go, Stoecklein says they are in constant contact with the NJCAA to discuss the fall to winter sports such as basketball, which runs through the normal fall break and into the spring semester.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581541933395.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In response to challenges presented by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees approved a revised calendar for the fall 2020 semester at its June 11 meeting.&nbsp;“We’ve been evaluating this opportunity or possibility for awhile,” college spokesperson Denny Stoecklein said. “We thought it would minimize the risk of having the students go home for Thanksgiving then come back to campus for two weeks.”The revised calendar moves up the start date of classes to Aug. 12 from Aug. 19, it eliminates the scheduled Fall Break Day of Oct. 9 and moves Finals Week to the week of Nov. 30 instead of the previously-scheduled week of Dec. 7. Finals will be conducted online, eliminating the need for students to return to campus after Thanksgiving break. Stoecklein says, at this time, that is the only change to the calendar for the year.“We thought it was best just to wrap up the face-to-face interactions before they would depart at Thanksgiving,” Stoecklein said. “That would give them an extended break for Christmas, but also not have that potential for going home and possibly being exposed to the virus and then coming back to campus.”&nbsp;So far, the fall semester is the only change made by the college.“There are no changes being planned for the spring semester,” Stoecklein said. “We anticipate coming back, we’re scheduled to come back, and moving forward with that.”Stoecklein added that it’s only June and anything can change.As far as athletics go, Stoecklein says they are in constant contact with the NJCAA to discuss the fall to winter sports such as basketball, which runs through the normal fall break and into the spring semester.