HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will hold another special meeting this evening as they continue to try and come up with a viable plan for renovating the football field and surrounding track. 

The Board has been discussing how to get both projects done without interfering with the spring sports seasons. There’s also the issue of coming up with enough of a water use allowance to maintain the playing fields. 

The district is looking at various options including getting water from the city and maybe even adjacent landowners.

Tonight’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the school district offices at 4501 West 4th Avenue just west of Fun Valley.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will hold another special meeting this evening as they continue to try and come up with a viable plan for renovating the football field and surrounding track. The Board has been discussing how to get both projects done without interfering with the spring sports seasons. There’s also the issue of coming up with enough of a water use allowance to maintain the playing fields. The district is looking at various options including getting water from the city and maybe even adjacent landowners.Tonight’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the school district offices at 4501 West 4th Avenue just west of Fun Valley.

Nickerson School Board to continue discussion of athletic facilities

McPherson County's COVID-19 case count as of Monday is at 28, with 25 recovered and one hospitalized.

The newest positive case is a male in his 50s recovering at home with unknown exposure.

McPherson County continues to mandate a 14-day home quarantine if out of state travel was taken to New York on or after March 15, Illinois or New Jersey on or after March 23, Connecticut on or after April 6, Massachusetts or Rhode Island on or after April 30 or Maryland on or after May 12 or any international, cruise ship or river cruise travel after March 15.

Residents are asked to maintain social distancing, avoid gathering in groups larger than 15, wear cloth face coverings or homemade masks when in public and practice proper handwashing and respiratory etiquette.

For more information, call the McPherson County Health Department at (620) 241-1753.

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 </figure>McPherson County's COVID-19 case count as of Monday is at 28, with 25 recovered and one hospitalized.The newest positive case is a male in his 50s recovering at home with unknown exposure.McPherson County continues to mandate a 14-day home quarantine if out of state travel was taken to New York on or after March 15, Illinois or New Jersey on or after March 23, Connecticut on or after April 6, Massachusetts or Rhode Island on or after April 30 or Maryland on or after May 12 or any international, cruise ship or river cruise travel after March 15.Residents are asked to maintain social distancing, avoid gathering in groups larger than 15, wear cloth face coverings or homemade masks when in public and practice proper handwashing and respiratory etiquette.For more information, call the McPherson County Health Department at (620) 241-1753.

McPherson County case count now at 28, 25 recovered, 1 in hospital

Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher

June 2020. How in the world did we get to June? I’ve had many instances lately that made me reflect on the past few months after realizing it’s now June. I have caught myself on more than one occasion asking myself, “Did I really complete that project only a few weeks ago?” or “Did that Zoom meeting really only happen last month?” It all seems like a lifetime ago. 

Since mid-March, I’ve been working remotely, the kids have been schooling virtually and my family has practiced social distancing to the best of our abilities. Our daily behaviors and weekly routines have radically changed. Yet, at the same time we have also stayed on schedule with farming.

While jobs that I completed from home in mid-March, April and even May seem like a lifetime ago, the growth on the farm indicates life is still happening in real-time.

The bees are buzzing and making collections from blooms that have appeared on time just like previous years. Corn planted in April has transformed from seeds below ground into healthy plants gaining height above ground at the same pace as previous years. The wheat is on schedule as it continues to turn from its vivid green into a golden yellow. 

The progress indicates the wheat will be ripe for harvest within the month — an event that happens around the same time every year. The continued growth evidenced on the farm maintains its place in time and space as in years before.

These visual reminders show life continues in real-time as opposed to my perceived warp-speed. 

The field of wheat I ride past on my evening bike rides serve as an anchor which grounds me and helps me recognize that while it may truly seem like a lifetime ago, the world continues to spin at the exact same rate it always has.

While the dizzying time spent in the farm office tackling school and work tasks in March, April and May seem like a blur now, the growth of the corn that my husband planted during that same time period serve as daily reminders we are, in fact, still living and operating in “normal” time. 

I’ve always appreciated June, and I think this year will be no different. The month has always served as a gateway allowing me to recognize, experience and appreciate time. Time where I can catch my breath and enjoy more moments with my kids who are now “home” for the summer. Time where the sunlight is available to enjoy for an extended period, and where I can walk through a field of growing corn and feel the wind while hearing a train whistle in the distance. Time where we can stop, sit and enjoy a meal in the field together as a family during wheat harvest. 

While the world around us may seem to be moving incredibly fast, there are constant reminders time has not changed. Seek out those reminders. Find those things that provide evidence that life continues at a “normal” pace and breathe them in. For me, those reminders are always present on the farm — especially in June.

"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.&nbsp;

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 </figure>Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancherJune 2020. How in the world did we get to June? I’ve had many instances lately that made me reflect on the past few months after realizing it’s now June. I have caught myself on more than one occasion asking myself, “Did I really complete that project only a few weeks ago?” or “Did that Zoom meeting really only happen last month?” It all seems like a lifetime ago. Since mid-March, I’ve been working remotely, the kids have been schooling virtually and my family has practiced social distancing to the best of our abilities. Our daily behaviors and weekly routines have radically changed. Yet, at the same time we have also stayed on schedule with farming.While jobs that I completed from home in mid-March, April and even May seem like a lifetime ago, the growth on the farm indicates life is still happening in real-time.The bees are buzzing and making collections from blooms that have appeared on time just like previous years. Corn planted in April has transformed from seeds below ground into healthy plants gaining height above ground at the same pace as previous years. The wheat is on schedule as it continues to turn from its vivid green into a golden yellow. The progress indicates the wheat will be ripe for harvest within the month — an event that happens around the same time every year. The continued growth evidenced on the farm maintains its place in time and space as in years before.These visual reminders show life continues in real-time as opposed to my perceived warp-speed. The field of wheat I ride past on my evening bike rides serve as an anchor which grounds me and helps me recognize that while it may truly seem like a lifetime ago, the world continues to spin at the exact same rate it always has.While the dizzying time spent in the farm office tackling school and work tasks in March, April and May seem like a blur now, the growth of the corn that my husband planted during that same time period serve as daily reminders we are, in fact, still living and operating in “normal” time. I’ve always appreciated June, and I think this year will be no different. The month has always served as a gateway allowing me to recognize, experience and appreciate time. Time where I can catch my breath and enjoy more moments with my kids who are now “home” for the summer. Time where the sunlight is available to enjoy for an extended period, and where I can walk through a field of growing corn and feel the wind while hearing a train whistle in the distance. Time where we can stop, sit and enjoy a meal in the field together as a family during wheat harvest. While the world around us may seem to be moving incredibly fast, there are constant reminders time has not changed. Seek out those reminders. Find those things that provide evidence that life continues at a “normal” pace and breathe them in. For me, those reminders are always present on the farm — especially in June."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.&nbsp;Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Time In June


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A large group of tests came back all at once from a Kansas lab over the weekend.

"Quest Labs out of Lenexa, we had 295 tests that took five days or more to get a response and 178 of those took 10 days or more," said Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti. "After communicating with Quest Labs, it looks to be like they just got inundated with drive-through testing throughout the state and it just looks like they're trying to catch back up."

None of the tests that came back were positive, that turnaround time is not normal, though.

"What we've grown accustomed to is a day to a day and a half turnaround time," Baldetti said. "At max, two."

One to two days has been standard since the beginning of April.

"You can understand the frustration of someone who got tested and they all came back negative," Baldetti said. "They've been asked to self-quarantine for 5 to 10 days. It can be problematic for the individual, epidemiologically, assuming that the individual is quarantining themselves, I don't know that there's much of a challenge."

Baldetti plans to update the media when he has an idea where the batch of tests originally came from.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A large group of tests came back all at once from a Kansas lab over the weekend."Quest Labs out of Lenexa, we had 295 tests that took five days or more to get a response and 178 of those took 10 days or more," said Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti. "After communicating with Quest Labs, it looks to be like they just got inundated with drive-through testing throughout the state and it just looks like they're trying to catch back up."None of the tests that came back were positive, that turnaround time is not normal, though."What we've grown accustomed to is a day to a day and a half turnaround time," Baldetti said. "At max, two."One to two days has been standard since the beginning of April."You can understand the frustration of someone who got tested and they all came back negative," Baldetti said. "They've been asked to self-quarantine for 5 to 10 days. It can be problematic for the individual, epidemiologically, assuming that the individual is quarantining themselves, I don't know that there's much of a challenge."Baldetti plans to update the media when he has an idea where the batch of tests originally came from.

Testing batch took a long time to get back, health department says


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;STRATACA is prepared to bring guests back underground starting Tuesday.

"We've done a lot of changes, just like many of the other businesses," said Tonya Gehring with STRATACA. "We've got hand sanitizing stations. We've got plexiglass where there's a transaction with money and we have our staff wearing masks right now for their protection."

Going underground and getting back up may take a little longer, too.

"We have a limited number of guests that can ride the elevator to begin with," Gehring said. "Thirty is our normal capacity, but for the first two weeks that we're open, we're only taking 10 people at a time underground."

That means there will be more times available to make the trip.

"We've doubled the amount of tours that we can have every day," Gehring said. "Ten people are going on a tour every 10 minutes. Because of that, it's summer travel, things are opening up. We're highly recommending reservations to make it an easy transition to come in, check in, get your ticket and head underground for a couple hours for a good time."

Strataca will be open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. with the last tour at 4:00 p.m. Open Sunday 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. with the last tour at 4:00 p.m. Reservations can be made at <a href="https://www.underkansas.org/tickets">underkansas.org/tickets</a>.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;STRATACA is prepared to bring guests back underground starting Tuesday."We've done a lot of changes, just like many of the other businesses," said Tonya Gehring with STRATACA. "We've got hand sanitizing stations. We've got plexiglass where there's a transaction with money and we have our staff wearing masks right now for their protection."Going underground and getting back up may take a little longer, too."We have a limited number of guests that can ride the elevator to begin with," Gehring said. "Thirty is our normal capacity, but for the first two weeks that we're open, we're only taking 10 people at a time underground."That means there will be more times available to make the trip."We've doubled the amount of tours that we can have every day," Gehring said. "Ten people are going on a tour every 10 minutes. Because of that, it's summer travel, things are opening up. We're highly recommending reservations to make it an easy transition to come in, check in, get your ticket and head underground for a couple hours for a good time."Strataca will be open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. with the last tour at 4:00 p.m. Open Sunday 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. with the last tour at 4:00 p.m. Reservations can be made at <a href="https://www.underkansas.org/tickets">underkansas.org/tickets</a>.

STRATACA ready for Tuesday start


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With vehicles adorned with the words "Black Lives Matter" and other signs, a group gathered for a peaceful protest in the death of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer. Local teacher Naee Williams put the gathering together with support from the local chapter of the NAACP and Hutchinson Police.&nbsp;

“I actually noticed some underlying racism here in the community of Hutchinson,” Williams said. “And then with everything going on with the George Floyd case and the Ahmaud Arbery case, I decided we needed to use our platform here to take a stand.”

Guests included officials from the NAACP along with Rep. Jason Probst and Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho.

“Tell me what you want and I’ll do it,” Probst announced. “Day after day I see or read another story of people of color suffering unjust deaths.”

The meeting was set by Williams with support from the NAACP and a meeting with the Hutchinson Police Department.

“The events are tragic and unfortunate,” Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper said. “What’s amazing about Hutchinson and amazing about what’s happened here is that everybody came together with an effort to build things up as opposed to tearing them down.”

Hooper met with Williams on Thursday and was very positive about the meeting.

“It was a really great conversation, I think we met for a couple of hours on Thursday . . . with her and her group and members of the NAACP,” Hooper said. “She’s a really great young lady, had the right frame of mind and really wanted to get the message out.”

Darrell Pope with the local chapter of the NAACP says it was great to see a large and diverse crowd on hand despite the hot weather.

“We all live in this world together,” Pope said. “It takes all of us to make sure that if there’s justice for one, there’s justice for everyone. And so when we all come together and work together and support what’s right, then that’s when we see people living together and peaceful coexistence.”&nbsp;

For Williams, she hopes it is the start of continued dialogue between law enforcement and the community to address the issues.

“Our political leaders definitely need to do what they're supposed to prevent history from repeating itself,” Williams said. “People just need to stop being so oblivious to what’s going on.”

By
ROD ZOOK
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With vehicles adorned with the words "Black Lives Matter" and other signs, a group gathered for a peaceful protest in the death of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer. Local teacher Naee Williams put the gathering together with support from the local chapter of the NAACP and Hutchinson Police.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590964256594.jpeg" alt="Naee Williams speaks to the group about the injustice that is happening in the world. Photos by Tabitha Barr." />
 <figcaption>Naee Williams speaks to the group about the injustice that is happening in the world. Photos by Tabitha Barr.</figcaption>
 </figure>“I actually noticed some underlying racism here in the community of Hutchinson,” Williams said. “And then with everything going on with the George Floyd case and the Ahmaud Arbery case, I decided we needed to use our platform here to take a stand.”Guests included officials from the NAACP along with Rep. Jason Probst and Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho.“Tell me what you want and I’ll do it,” Probst announced. “Day after day I see or read another story of people of color suffering unjust deaths.”The meeting was set by Williams with support from the NAACP and a meeting with the Hutchinson Police Department.“The events are tragic and unfortunate,” Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper said. “What’s amazing about Hutchinson and amazing about what’s happened here is that everybody came together with an effort to build things up as opposed to tearing them down.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590964278230.jpeg" alt="Santalena Caudillo-Nisly talks about the white/brown privilege that needs to be used for good to help black lives. Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper holds a sign to bring awareness to the situation." />
 <figcaption>Santalena Caudillo-Nisly talks about the white/brown privilege that needs to be used for good to help black lives. Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper holds a sign to bring awareness to the situation.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hooper met with Williams on Thursday and was very positive about the meeting.“It was a really great conversation, I think we met for a couple of hours on Thursday . . . with her and her group and members of the NAACP,” Hooper said. “She’s a really great young lady, had the right frame of mind and really wanted to get the message out.”Darrell Pope with the local chapter of the NAACP says it was great to see a large and diverse crowd on hand despite the hot weather.“We all live in this world together,” Pope said. “It takes all of us to make sure that if there’s justice for one, there’s justice for everyone. And so when we all come together and work together and support what’s right, then that’s when we see people living together and peaceful coexistence.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590964813456.jpeg" alt="Protesters hold signs to show support for those like George Floyd." />
 <figcaption>Protesters hold signs to show support for those like George Floyd.</figcaption>
 </figure>For Williams, she hopes it is the start of continued dialogue between law enforcement and the community to address the issues.“Our political leaders definitely need to do what they're supposed to prevent history from repeating itself,” Williams said. “People just need to stop being so oblivious to what’s going on.”

Peaceful protest held in front of Reno County Courthouse


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Reno County Museum opens Tuesday.

"We've got plexiglass barriers for the entranceway, we're expecting to have social distancing restrictions throughout the Museum," said Michael Ables with the Reno County Museum. "We're limiting our ability for guests to go into the Oodleplex. Overall, we're trying to create that safe environment."

There are also hand sanitizing stations throughout the facility. The museum is already having conversations about preserving the history of the pandemic, as well. 

"We believe that, six months from now, a year from now, we're definitely going to have some of these artifacts inside the museum," Ables said. "In fact, we're collecting the stories already. We have a program right now that's called Share Your Story and it's an opportunity for residents of Reno County to go ahead and share their stories of what they are dealing with as Reno County."

The page to share your observations is at <a href="https://www.renocomuseum.org/share-your-story">https://www.renocomuseum.org/share-your-story.</a>

"We've had photos sent in," Ables said. "We had one individual that was in quarantine because they had COVID-19 and they wrote in and shared their story about what they've dealt with, what they were looking at and how they've passed their time and it's amazing. We expect to see more of that as we move beyond this point."

The museum’s operating hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Reno County Museum opens Tuesday."We've got plexiglass barriers for the entranceway, we're expecting to have social distancing restrictions throughout the Museum," said Michael Ables with the Reno County Museum. "We're limiting our ability for guests to go into the Oodleplex. Overall, we're trying to create that safe environment."There are also hand sanitizing stations throughout the facility. The museum is already having conversations about preserving the history of the pandemic, as well. "We believe that, six months from now, a year from now, we're definitely going to have some of these artifacts inside the museum," Ables said. "In fact, we're collecting the stories already. We have a program right now that's called Share Your Story and it's an opportunity for residents of Reno County to go ahead and share their stories of what they are dealing with as Reno County."The page to share your observations is at <a href="https://www.renocomuseum.org/share-your-story">https://www.renocomuseum.org/share-your-story.</a>"We've had photos sent in," Ables said. "We had one individual that was in quarantine because they had COVID-19 and they wrote in and shared their story about what they've dealt with, what they were looking at and how they've passed their time and it's amazing. We expect to see more of that as we move beyond this point."The museum’s operating hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reno County Museum prepared to reopen Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;AAA is concerned about teen drivers as summertime gets underway.

"The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often referred to as the 100 deadliest days for teen drivers," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "It's a particularly dangerous time as more teen drivers are out on the roads. This year's a little bit different, but we sort of throw in a different nuance with COVID-19. People haven't been out driving as much, so their driving skills, both teens and adults may be a little rusty. Then, you couple that with driver's ed classes being cancelled in many places. There could be some extra dangers on the road this summer."

In Kansas, 117 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers in the past ten years during the “100 Deadliest Days.”

"Two of the biggest factors with the dangers of teens on the roads is inexperience and then risky behaviors," Steward said. "Things like speeding, texting and driving, aggressive driving, driving without a seatbelt, things like that."

About 72% of teen drivers aged 16-18 admitted to having engaged in at least one risky behavior in the past 30 days.

"We think parents need to take an active role," Steward said. "We suggest that parents talk with their teens regularly about dangerous behavior behind the wheel, such as speeding, impairment, distracted driving, but we also recommend that parents set a good example for their kids."

AAA recommends that parents conduct at least 50 hours of supervised practice driving with their teen.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;AAA is concerned about teen drivers as summertime gets underway."The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often referred to as the 100 deadliest days for teen drivers," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "It's a particularly dangerous time as more teen drivers are out on the roads. This year's a little bit different, but we sort of throw in a different nuance with COVID-19. People haven't been out driving as much, so their driving skills, both teens and adults may be a little rusty. Then, you couple that with driver's ed classes being cancelled in many places. There could be some extra dangers on the road this summer."In Kansas, 117 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers in the past ten years during the “100 Deadliest Days.”"Two of the biggest factors with the dangers of teens on the roads is inexperience and then risky behaviors," Steward said. "Things like speeding, texting and driving, aggressive driving, driving without a seatbelt, things like that."About 72% of teen drivers aged 16-18 admitted to having engaged in at least one risky behavior in the past 30 days."We think parents need to take an active role," Steward said. "We suggest that parents talk with their teens regularly about dangerous behavior behind the wheel, such as speeding, impairment, distracted driving, but we also recommend that parents set a good example for their kids."AAA recommends that parents conduct at least 50 hours of supervised practice driving with their teen.

100 Deadliest Days for teen drivers underway, AAA says


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The American Red Cross needs people to donate blood.

"We have an urgent need for blood donations right now," said Jan Hale with the Red Cross. "After the crazy rollercoaster of the last couple of months, hospitals are beginning to resume surgical procedures and their patient treatments, which they temporarily paused. At the same time, we're still seeing some cancelled blood drives, businesses that are not back working or civic organizations that still have members working from home."

The general restrictions on blood donation are the same.

"You have to be 17 years of age, 16 with mom and dad's okay," Hale said. "You need to weigh about 110 pounds. You need to be in pretty good health. You need to be feeling good that day. We would urge you to go to redcrossblood.org if you have any other concerns."

That's also where you can set an appointment, and you'll need one.

"Let's know who is coming to the drive and what time they are coming," Hale said. "Wear a mask. If you don't have a mask, no worries, we can provide one when you get there. At the beginning of the drive, we're going to take your temperature, ask you to use some hand sanitizer and then we're going to urge you to follow social distancing with the other donors that are there, as well."

The Hutchinson community blood drive is June 1, from noon to 7 p.m. and June 2, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., as well as June 3, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. all at the First Presbyterian Church at 201 East Sherman.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The American Red Cross needs people to donate blood."We have an urgent need for blood donations right now," said Jan Hale with the Red Cross. "After the crazy rollercoaster of the last couple of months, hospitals are beginning to resume surgical procedures and their patient treatments, which they temporarily paused. At the same time, we're still seeing some cancelled blood drives, businesses that are not back working or civic organizations that still have members working from home."The general restrictions on blood donation are the same."You have to be 17 years of age, 16 with mom and dad's okay," Hale said. "You need to weigh about 110 pounds. You need to be in pretty good health. You need to be feeling good that day. We would urge you to go to redcrossblood.org if you have any other concerns."That's also where you can set an appointment, and you'll need one."Let's know who is coming to the drive and what time they are coming," Hale said. "Wear a mask. If you don't have a mask, no worries, we can provide one when you get there. At the beginning of the drive, we're going to take your temperature, ask you to use some hand sanitizer and then we're going to urge you to follow social distancing with the other donors that are there, as well."The Hutchinson community blood drive is June 1, from noon to 7 p.m. and June 2, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., as well as June 3, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. all at the First Presbyterian Church at 201 East Sherman.

Red Cross asking for blood donors, drive going on this week

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —  StartUp Hutch will host its first networking event called The Hot Seat on Tuesday, June 2, at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. The Hot Seat is designed to encourage dialogue and foster a network of support around local entrepreneurs.

The first featured entrepreneur in The Hot Seat will be Eric Spurgeon with Tarhun 3D. Spurgeon will be given 5 to 10 minutes to explain his business and talk about his entrepreneurial journey. After his remarks, the conversation will be open for feedback, questions and discussion. Any aspiring or experienced entrepreneur or start-up business proprietor in the Reno County area is invited to attend this free event.

StartUp Hutch, formerly known as The Quest Center, 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. For more information and entrepreneurship resources, visit <a href="http://StartUpHutch.com">StartUpHutch.com.</a>

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — StartUp Hutch will host its first networking event called The Hot Seat on Tuesday, June 2, at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. The Hot Seat is designed to encourage dialogue and foster a network of support around local entrepreneurs.The first featured entrepreneur in The Hot Seat will be Eric Spurgeon with Tarhun 3D. Spurgeon will be given 5 to 10 minutes to explain his business and talk about his entrepreneurial journey. After his remarks, the conversation will be open for feedback, questions and discussion. Any aspiring or experienced entrepreneur or start-up business proprietor in the Reno County area is invited to attend this free event.StartUp Hutch, formerly known as The Quest Center, 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. For more information and entrepreneurship resources, visit <a href="http://StartUpHutch.com">StartUpHutch.com.</a>

StartUp Hutch to air first program Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will have a light agenda on Tuesday. The board will hear the weekly update on the pandemic and then take public comment.&nbsp;

The board will also hear the budget request for the Reno County Drug Court for 2021 and discuss a licensing grant for the Health Department for an expanded child care grant.

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

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will have a light agenda on Tuesday. The board will hear the weekly update on the pandemic and then take public comment.&nbsp;The board will also hear the budget request for the Reno County Drug Court for 2021 and discuss a licensing grant for the Health Department for an expanded child care grant.Tuesday’s meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Light agenda for County Commission meeting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec continues to reopen its facilities. That includes Dillon Nature Center, which will fully reopen its visitors center on Monday, June 1. This includes the indoor exhibit area.

The visitors center is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

To keep everyone healthy and safe, Dillon Nature Center asks that individuals practice safe social distancing and avoid close contact with others, as well as respect requests to follow proper guidelines set forth by KRPA and local health authorities.

Ongoing details and updates will be shared with media outlets, on social media and at <a href="http://hutchrec.com">hutchrec.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584563985382.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec continues to reopen its facilities. That includes Dillon Nature Center, which will fully reopen its visitors center on Monday, June 1. This includes the indoor exhibit area.The visitors center is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.To keep everyone healthy and safe, Dillon Nature Center asks that individuals practice safe social distancing and avoid close contact with others, as well as respect requests to follow proper guidelines set forth by KRPA and local health authorities.Ongoing details and updates will be shared with media outlets, on social media and at <a href="http://hutchrec.com">hutchrec.com</a>.

Dillon Nature Center to open Monday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti made clear Friday that nothing to this point should hold back the 4th of July Patriots Parade in Hutchinson.

"There is nothing at this point that leads me to believe that there won't be a 4th of July parade," Baldetti said. "As we've seen over the last four or so months, moreso at a national level and at the state level things can change rather rapidly. Of course, we'll be continuing to monitor very closely the metrics and activity here in Reno County around SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19."

The parade route, if people are serious about social distancing, may look a little different.

"When we talk about social distance, we're also talking about family units, as well and familiar units," Baldetti said. "I would expect for an activity such as the July 4th parade that we can have those groups that can sit and enjoy the parade on the sidewalk or on the side of the road, but we can, generally speaking, we can still constitute distance between those groups."

Baldetti doesn't see that unreasonably extending the parade route beyond its usual length. He believes events will be on in general unless circumstances in disease spread between now and then change that.

"Consider them on, but we're also heavily advocating for kind of the standard practices that we've heard that are tried and true over the last four months," Baldetti said. "That's social distancing, routine hygiene practices, upper respiratory etiquette, stay home if you're sick, you know, all the things that we've been bludgeoned with over the last three to four months."

The health order issued lasts past the July 4th holiday.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti made clear Friday that nothing to this point should hold back the 4th of July Patriots Parade in Hutchinson."There is nothing at this point that leads me to believe that there won't be a 4th of July parade," Baldetti said. "As we've seen over the last four or so months, moreso at a national level and at the state level things can change rather rapidly. Of course, we'll be continuing to monitor very closely the metrics and activity here in Reno County around SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19."The parade route, if people are serious about social distancing, may look a little different."When we talk about social distance, we're also talking about family units, as well and familiar units," Baldetti said. "I would expect for an activity such as the July 4th parade that we can have those groups that can sit and enjoy the parade on the sidewalk or on the side of the road, but we can, generally speaking, we can still constitute distance between those groups."Baldetti doesn't see that unreasonably extending the parade route beyond its usual length. He believes events will be on in general unless circumstances in disease spread between now and then change that."Consider them on, but we're also heavily advocating for kind of the standard practices that we've heard that are tried and true over the last four months," Baldetti said. "That's social distancing, routine hygiene practices, upper respiratory etiquette, stay home if you're sick, you know, all the things that we've been bludgeoned with over the last three to four months."The health order issued lasts past the July 4th holiday.

Baldetti: Parade is on at this point

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The Hutchinson City-Wide Cleanup is today and Sunday.

Dumpsters will be placed at 14 locations around the city where residents can dispose of unwanted items.

There are limits to what can be placed in the dumpster. Residents are asked not to dispose of tires, tree limbs or grass clippings, hazardous waste, or large metal items like appliances, bicycles and lawnmowers.&nbsp;

The city also wants to remind residents that TECH no longer recycles e-waste and the prison no longer recycles mattresses. These items can be taken directly to the landfill.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information, call Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900 or go to <a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/1057/City-Wide-Clean-Up">hutchgov.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590072211852.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Rod Zookhutchpost.comHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The Hutchinson City-Wide Cleanup is today and Sunday.Dumpsters will be placed at 14 locations around the city where residents can dispose of unwanted items.There are limits to what can be placed in the dumpster. Residents are asked not to dispose of tires, tree limbs or grass clippings, hazardous waste, or large metal items like appliances, bicycles and lawnmowers.&nbsp;The city also wants to remind residents that TECH no longer recycles e-waste and the prison no longer recycles mattresses. These items can be taken directly to the landfill.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, call Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900 or go to <a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/1057/City-Wide-Clean-Up">hutchgov.com</a>.

City-wide cleanup this weekend

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson ends the suspension of disconnections for city utilities Monday. The city suspended disconnections in March in response to the pandemic.

At the moment, the city says it has more than double the number of households on the disconnect list compared to this time last year. Figures released to Eagle Radio and Hutch Post show that, in February, the city had $19,178 worth of outstanding bills that were scheduled for cutoff. Most were one month past due. As of Friday morning, the city has $82,299 worth of outstanding bills. Of those, 191 accounts are one month past due, totaling $12,824. But another 437 accounts are over a month past due and total nearly $70,000.&nbsp;

The city stressed that if customers need more time, they can visit <a href="http://hutchgov.com/pay-agreement">hutchgov.com/pay-agreement</a> to begin the process of setting up a payment agreement to keep their service from being interrupted. To talk with a customer service representative, call 620-694-2621 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.&nbsp;

Those in need of financial assistance because of coronavirus are encouraged to apply for help online at <a href="http://RallyReno.org">RallyReno.org</a> or by calling 2-1-1. The Reno County VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster) Unmet Needs Fund is there to aid with essential expenses, like utilities and housing, for those financially impacted by the pandemic.&nbsp;

City Hall will be open to the public on June 1. While in-person utility payments may resume at that time, customers will still be encouraged to use the following services to pay utility bills when possible:&nbsp;

• Visit <a href="http://waterbill.hutchgov.com">waterbill.hutchgov.com</a> to pay your bill online&nbsp;

• For help in setting up online bill pay, please visit <a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/536/Online-Bill-Pay-Help">https://www.hutchgov.com/536/Online-Bill-Pay-Help</a>&nbsp;

• Call 620-694-2621 to pay by phone&nbsp;

• Use the drop box on the west side of City Hall, 125 E. Ave. B, or mail payment to the same address.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943691499.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson ends the suspension of disconnections for city utilities Monday. The city suspended disconnections in March in response to the pandemic.At the moment, the city says it has more than double the number of households on the disconnect list compared to this time last year. Figures released to Eagle Radio and Hutch Post show that, in February, the city had $19,178 worth of outstanding bills that were scheduled for cutoff. Most were one month past due. As of Friday morning, the city has $82,299 worth of outstanding bills. Of those, 191 accounts are one month past due, totaling $12,824. But another 437 accounts are over a month past due and total nearly $70,000.&nbsp;The city stressed that if customers need more time, they can visit <a href="http://hutchgov.com/pay-agreement">hutchgov.com/pay-agreement</a> to begin the process of setting up a payment agreement to keep their service from being interrupted. To talk with a customer service representative, call 620-694-2621 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.&nbsp;Those in need of financial assistance because of coronavirus are encouraged to apply for help online at <a href="http://RallyReno.org">RallyReno.org</a> or by calling 2-1-1. The Reno County VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster) Unmet Needs Fund is there to aid with essential expenses, like utilities and housing, for those financially impacted by the pandemic.&nbsp;City Hall will be open to the public on June 1. While in-person utility payments may resume at that time, customers will still be encouraged to use the following services to pay utility bills when possible:&nbsp;• Visit <a href="http://waterbill.hutchgov.com">waterbill.hutchgov.com</a> to pay your bill online&nbsp;• For help in setting up online bill pay, please visit <a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/536/Online-Bill-Pay-Help">https://www.hutchgov.com/536/Online-Bill-Pay-Help</a>&nbsp;• Call 620-694-2621 to pay by phone&nbsp;• Use the drop box on the west side of City Hall, 125 E. Ave. B, or mail payment to the same address.&nbsp;

City of Hutchinson facing more than $82K in unpaid utility bills

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The situation in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the arrest of a police officer in the death of George Floyd certainly has the attention of everyone. That includes the local chapter of the NAACP, who will speak at a peaceful protest that is being organized by a local resident on Sunday.

“It’s to draw attention to the fact that these injustices are continuing to happen across the country,” Darrell Pope of the local NAACP said. “This is drawing attention to the fact that there’s still a lot of work to be done. Even though we’ve been blessed in the local community not to have to experience things to that extent, we still need to be cognizant of the fact that there are things we need to be working to.”

Pope said that violence and the rioting that has taken place across the nation is regrettable in that it takes the focus away from the real issue.

“It’s regrettable that kind of thing happens,” Pope said. “It always seems to overshadow the real thing that’s going on.”

Pope says ending the mistrust between all races starts in the judicial system and especially in the home where change can start at an early age.

“Fundamentally that sort of thing starts at home,” Pope said. “We were taught that you respect everybody, you respect people and treat them with respect. And I think that has to be developed early in age.”&nbsp;

Pope also stressed that national leadership has to play a role in this as well.

“It has to be demonstrated by those people that are in decision-making positions,” Pope stressed.&nbsp; He says we see name-calling when candidates run for national offices. "We see all kinds of underhanded things being done by people who are supposed to be leaders . . . that trickles down to the rank and file.”&nbsp;

The peaceful protest begins at 2 p.m. Sunday in front of the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590785021502.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The situation in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the arrest of a police officer in the death of George Floyd certainly has the attention of everyone. That includes the local chapter of the NAACP, who will speak at a peaceful protest that is being organized by a local resident on Sunday.“It’s to draw attention to the fact that these injustices are continuing to happen across the country,” Darrell Pope of the local NAACP said. “This is drawing attention to the fact that there’s still a lot of work to be done. Even though we’ve been blessed in the local community not to have to experience things to that extent, we still need to be cognizant of the fact that there are things we need to be working to.”Pope said that violence and the rioting that has taken place across the nation is regrettable in that it takes the focus away from the real issue.“It’s regrettable that kind of thing happens,” Pope said. “It always seems to overshadow the real thing that’s going on.”Pope says ending the mistrust between all races starts in the judicial system and especially in the home where change can start at an early age.“Fundamentally that sort of thing starts at home,” Pope said. “We were taught that you respect everybody, you respect people and treat them with respect. And I think that has to be developed early in age.”&nbsp;Pope also stressed that national leadership has to play a role in this as well.“It has to be demonstrated by those people that are in decision-making positions,” Pope stressed.&nbsp; He says we see name-calling when candidates run for national offices. "We see all kinds of underhanded things being done by people who are supposed to be leaders . . . that trickles down to the rank and file.”&nbsp;The peaceful protest begins at 2 p.m. Sunday in front of the Reno County Courthouse.

NAACP's Darrell Pope says change must come at all levels

NICKERSON, Kan. — One person was killed in a car/ semi accident Friday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a car driven by 35-year-old, Travis William Mayer, of Nickerson, was going west on K-14 when he crossed the center line and was hit by an eastbound semi driven by 42-year-old Jaret Frack of Bel Aire, Kansas.

Mayer was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to the&nbsp;Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center.

Frack was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

The accident happened just after 2 p.m. four-miles west of Nickerson.

<figure>
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 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — One person was killed in a car/ semi accident Friday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a car driven by 35-year-old, Travis William Mayer, of Nickerson, was going west on K-14 when he crossed the center line and was hit by an eastbound semi driven by 42-year-old Jaret Frack of Bel Aire, Kansas.Mayer was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to the&nbsp;Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center.Frack was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.The accident happened just after 2 p.m. four-miles west of Nickerson.

Reno County man dies after crash with semi

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Deputy District Attorney Tom Stanton says that a Hutchinson man's claim of self-defense in a murder case does not hold any legal ground. Stanton filed his response to a motion for dismissal of charges against Isaac Ervin. Ervin’s attorney filed the motion last week.

Ervin is charged with premeditated first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, promoting sexual acts, and intimidation of a witness in connection with the death of Lora Beth Stratton. Stratton was found beaten in a Hutchinson alley Aug. 23. She died 10 days later in a Wichita hospital.

Although Ervin admits to strangling Stratton, he claims he was defending himself after Stratton attacked him. During an interview with police, Ervin claimed he was alone with Stratton in an apartment and she became angry because Ervin wasn’t helping her bond her husband out of jail.

The motion states that Ervin took action against Stratton under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law, “where their use of force against another person was justified in self-defense.”

But Stanton noted several reasons as to why the motion should be denied. Most notably, that strangulation is inconsistent with the claim of self-defense immunity. He also states that the method to which Stratton was killed takes a considerable amount of time and the victim is rendered unconscious and no longer a threat well before strangulation results in death.

The brief also states that Kansas courts have consistently held that strangulation is not only evidence of intention to kill, but is sufficient for a jury to conclude that the killing was pre-meditated.&nbsp;

Stanton also noted that the defendant is 6-1 and weighs 249 pounds while Stratton was 5-7 and weighed 115 pounds. He says it was highly unlikely that the victim was any kind of threat to the defendant.

It was also noted that, if the victim did come at the defendant with a knife as he claims, once she was disarmed, as he stated, any further action was not self-defense.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582839515277.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Deputy District Attorney Tom Stanton says that a Hutchinson man's claim of self-defense in a murder case does not hold any legal ground. Stanton filed his response to a motion for dismissal of charges against Isaac Ervin. Ervin’s attorney filed the motion last week.Ervin is charged with premeditated first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, promoting sexual acts, and intimidation of a witness in connection with the death of Lora Beth Stratton. Stratton was found beaten in a Hutchinson alley Aug. 23. She died 10 days later in a Wichita hospital.Although Ervin admits to strangling Stratton, he claims he was defending himself after Stratton attacked him. During an interview with police, Ervin claimed he was alone with Stratton in an apartment and she became angry because Ervin wasn’t helping her bond her husband out of jail.The motion states that Ervin took action against Stratton under the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law, “where their use of force against another person was justified in self-defense.”But Stanton noted several reasons as to why the motion should be denied. Most notably, that strangulation is inconsistent with the claim of self-defense immunity. He also states that the method to which Stratton was killed takes a considerable amount of time and the victim is rendered unconscious and no longer a threat well before strangulation results in death.The brief also states that Kansas courts have consistently held that strangulation is not only evidence of intention to kill, but is sufficient for a jury to conclude that the killing was pre-meditated.&nbsp;Stanton also noted that the defendant is 6-1 and weighs 249 pounds while Stratton was 5-7 and weighed 115 pounds. He says it was highly unlikely that the victim was any kind of threat to the defendant.It was also noted that, if the victim did come at the defendant with a knife as he claims, once she was disarmed, as he stated, any further action was not self-defense.

Prosecution in murder case files brief on self-defense motion

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

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

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

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The City of Hutchinson is set to reopen the following facilities to the public on Monday, June 1:&nbsp;

• Parks and Facilities Office, 1600 S. Elm St.&nbsp;

• Hutchinson Animal Shelter, 1501 S. Severance&nbsp;

• Public Works Building, 1500 S. Plum&nbsp;

• Homebuilders Shelter, 2 Emerson Loop&nbsp;

• Rice Park Community Building, 44 Swarens&nbsp;

• Hutchinson Zoo Educational Building, 6 Emerson Loop&nbsp;

• The Hutchinson Sports Arena, 720 E. 11th Ave.&nbsp;

Residents are encouraged to continue to use online options whenever possible for paying bills, applying for permits, watching council meetings, etc.&nbsp;

Both staff and visitors are asked to observe good hygiene and social distancing guidelines. The city also asks that no one enters or uses city facilities who has a fever or is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. Those entering public buildings are encouraged to wear cloth face coverings or masks, particularly when social distancing may be hard to maintain. Due to limited availability, the public is encouraged to bring their own, however, masks will be made available for those who need them.&nbsp;

Council and Committee Meetings&nbsp;

In-person City Council meetings will once again open to the public on June 2. With the limited space in the Council Chamber, it is recommended that those who do not wish to address the council or have an item on the agenda watch the meetings live on cable channel 7, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzylhbN8L0WFkwAp_nQ3tsA">YouTube</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonks/">Facebook</a>. To maintain social distancing, some people may be asked to wait in the lobby for their turn to speak.&nbsp;

Advisory Committees may resume in-person meetings at the discretion of the chair while continuing to follow social distancing guidelines and good hygiene. If a meeting is being held remotely, the call-in information will be made available at <a href="http://hutchgov.com/">hutchgov.com</a> in accordance with the Kansas Open Meetings Act for those who wish to observe.&nbsp;

Rental facilities, including the Homebuilders Shelter, Rice Park Community Building and the Hutchinson Zoo Educational Building, are once again available to reserve. Those planning large gatherings of 100 people or more are expected to work with the Reno County Health Department on a plan to maintain safe social distancing. Memorial Hall will be closing for the season June 8, but it is anticipated to reopen in the fall.&nbsp;

Parks, Trails and Playgrounds&nbsp;

Parks and trails have remained open to the public throughout the pandemic to encourage healthy activity and getting outdoors. Playgrounds and splash pads opened back up on May 22, just in time for the three-day weekend.

Carey Park Golf Course and the Hutchinson Zoo are already open, both with restrictions. The public can expect to see those restrictions continue to loosen in the coming days.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; The City of Hutchinson is set to reopen the following facilities to the public on Monday, June 1:&nbsp;• City Hall, 125 E. Ave. B&nbsp;• Parks and Facilities Office, 1600 S. Elm St.&nbsp;• Hutchinson Animal Shelter, 1501 S. Severance&nbsp;• Public Works Building, 1500 S. Plum&nbsp;• Homebuilders Shelter, 2 Emerson Loop&nbsp;• Rice Park Community Building, 44 Swarens&nbsp;• Hutchinson Zoo Educational Building, 6 Emerson Loop&nbsp;• Memorial Hall, 101 S. Walnut&nbsp;• The Hutchinson Sports Arena, 720 E. 11th Ave.&nbsp;Residents are encouraged to continue to use online options whenever possible for paying bills, applying for permits, watching council meetings, etc.&nbsp;Both staff and visitors are asked to observe good hygiene and social distancing guidelines. The city also asks that no one enters or uses city facilities who has a fever or is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. Those entering public buildings are encouraged to wear cloth face coverings or masks, particularly when social distancing may be hard to maintain. Due to limited availability, the public is encouraged to bring their own, however, masks will be made available for those who need them.&nbsp;Council and Committee Meetings&nbsp;In-person City Council meetings will once again open to the public on June 2. With the limited space in the Council Chamber, it is recommended that those who do not wish to address the council or have an item on the agenda watch the meetings live on cable channel 7, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzylhbN8L0WFkwAp_nQ3tsA">YouTube</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonks/">Facebook</a>. To maintain social distancing, some people may be asked to wait in the lobby for their turn to speak.&nbsp;Advisory Committees may resume in-person meetings at the discretion of the chair while continuing to follow social distancing guidelines and good hygiene. If a meeting is being held remotely, the call-in information will be made available at <a href="http://hutchgov.com/">hutchgov.com</a> in accordance with the Kansas Open Meetings Act for those who wish to observe.&nbsp;Rental Facilities&nbsp;Rental facilities, including the Homebuilders Shelter, Rice Park Community Building and the Hutchinson Zoo Educational Building, are once again available to reserve. Those planning large gatherings of 100 people or more are expected to work with the Reno County Health Department on a plan to maintain safe social distancing. Memorial Hall will be closing for the season June 8, but it is anticipated to reopen in the fall.&nbsp;Parks, Trails and Playgrounds&nbsp;Parks and trails have remained open to the public throughout the pandemic to encourage healthy activity and getting outdoors. Playgrounds and splash pads opened back up on May 22, just in time for the three-day weekend.Carey Park Golf Course and the Hutchinson Zoo are already open, both with restrictions. The public can expect to see those restrictions continue to loosen in the coming days.&nbsp;

City to reopen facilities on Monday

This week after thoughtful deliberations with the Economic Recovery Taskforce and the Reno County Board of Health, the Reno County Health Officer is issuing Emergency Health Order #20-03 which will go into effective at 12:01 am May 30th, 2020. The contents of this Health order were developed with careful considerations of the Public Health Data and Science trending related to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Order #20-30 moves Reno County into a reopening phase with the following recommendations:

- A Gathering greater than 100, Consult with the Reno County Health Department for the best application of Fundamental Public Health guidelines

- Maintain 6 feet of separation among individuals and between familiar groups

- Individuals are recommended to wear cloth masks in public settings as appropriate.

As of Friday afternoon Reno County has forty-three total laboratory confirmed COVID-19 cases, all recovered. It is due to the tireless efforts of the Reno County constituency and their adherence to social distancing guidelines and the application of best practices that the county finds itself poised to move forward.

Please find complete details of the Reno County – Moving Forward Plan and Health Order #20-03 at <a href="https://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19">www.renogov.org</a>.

The Reno County Health Department wants to thank everyone in Reno County for their efforts to fight the spread of the Covid-19 virus by utilizing social distancing and public health best practices. We must continue to be vigilant as Reno County continues reopening. During this process, the Health Department reminds you of the following:

• Maintain at least six feet of distance between individuals or groups

• Follow fundamental cleaning and public health practices

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

• Cough and sneeze into your elbow bend (even when wearing a mask)

• Limit handshakes and physical contact

• Stay home when you are sick (unless seeking medical attention)

We continue to highly encourage Reno County residents to be dependent on health authorities to provide the most accurate information on COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590713183082.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This week after thoughtful deliberations with the Economic Recovery Taskforce and the Reno County Board of Health, the Reno County Health Officer is issuing Emergency Health Order #20-03 which will go into effective at 12:01 am May 30th, 2020. The contents of this Health order were developed with careful considerations of the Public Health Data and Science trending related to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.Order #20-30 moves Reno County into a reopening phase with the following recommendations:- A Gathering greater than 100, Consult with the Reno County Health Department for the best application of Fundamental Public Health guidelines- Maintain 6 feet of separation among individuals and between familiar groups- Individuals are recommended to wear cloth masks in public settings as appropriate.As of Friday afternoon Reno County has forty-three total laboratory confirmed COVID-19 cases, all recovered. It is due to the tireless efforts of the Reno County constituency and their adherence to social distancing guidelines and the application of best practices that the county finds itself poised to move forward.Please find complete details of the Reno County – Moving Forward Plan and Health Order #20-03 at <a href="https://www.renogov.org/741/COVID-19">www.renogov.org</a>.The Reno County Health Department wants to thank everyone in Reno County for their efforts to fight the spread of the Covid-19 virus by utilizing social distancing and public health best practices. We must continue to be vigilant as Reno County continues reopening. During this process, the Health Department reminds you of the following:• Maintain at least six feet of distance between individuals or groups• Wear a mask when out in public• Follow fundamental cleaning and public health practices• Wash your hands• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth• Cough and sneeze into your elbow bend (even when wearing a mask)• Limit handshakes and physical contact• Stay home when you are sick (unless seeking medical attention)We continue to highly encourage Reno County residents to be dependent on health authorities to provide the most accurate information on COVID-19.

New Emergency Health Order in effect Saturday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson held a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLyjfQ8bIcM">video town hall</a> on social media Thursday to allow Police Chief Jeff Hooper to address how his department would handle situations like the one that ultimately resulted in the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis this week.

"We address those type of events in training constantly," Hooper said to Human Relations Officer Datjeda Moore. "We talk about the emotions that are behind those events. We talk about things like excited delerium, positional asphyxia, excessive use of force, how officers can cope with and deal with the emotion of those situations and be able to deescalate. How other officers, then, can come in and assist and if they see an officer acting excessively or acting out of bounds, other officers can come in and assist that officer, who may be emotionally charged."

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson held a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLyjfQ8bIcM">video town hall</a> on social media Thursday to allow Police Chief Jeff Hooper to address how his department would handle situations like the one that ultimately resulted in the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis this week."We address those type of events in training constantly," Hooper said to Human Relations Officer Datjeda Moore. "We talk about the emotions that are behind those events. We talk about things like excited delerium, positional asphyxia, excessive use of force, how officers can cope with and deal with the emotion of those situations and be able to deescalate. How other officers, then, can come in and assist and if they see an officer acting excessively or acting out of bounds, other officers can come in and assist that officer, who may be emotionally charged."Putting the full weight of your body on someone and leaving it there for an extended period of time is not proper procedure in the Hutchinson Police Department."It's not uncommon, or its fairly typical for an officer to place somebody on the ground in order to handcuff them," Hooper said. "We worry about having people placed on the ground, because of the position that they're in. Certainly, we never train to put our knee across the back of somebody's neck. In those situations, if we get somebody secured in handcuffs, our procedure is we set them up immediately, so that they're able to sit up and breathe again. We're not putting them in a compromising situation any longer than is absolutely necessary for safety."Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho asked the chief to address the implicit bias training the department receives."To say that you don't have any biases is naive," Hooper said. "Everybody has a bias. In law enforcement, it used to be that we'd tell our officers don't be biased. Well, they can't help but have their internal feelings. What we have to train our officers is, you have implicit bias. You have to be cognizant enough and you have to be self-reflective enough, to be able to see that you have biases. You have to be able to identify them, and then, your actions cannot be reflective of your biases. You have to treat people fair, in spite of your biases and the first step to that is realizing that those biases exist."Officers get training on implicit bias before they go to the academy, they get it at the academy and they get it annually.