
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst wants to be clear that even though precautions, like indoor mask wearing, need to be taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, people shouldn't be afraid of patronizing businesses in the county or of going to work, as long as they are taking those precautions.

"Our local businesses, they're doing a great job to provide you, as well as their employees with a good, healthy, safe place to shop and just let you go about your daily routine," Hirst said.

Hirst is encouraging people to find a balance as they go about their business.

"My philosophy is, don't let fear run your life," Hirst said. "Just be cautious and respect other people."

Hirst also praised local manufacturers for how they are handling the pandemic.

"They want to provide you with a safe and healthy workplace, so you can make a living and they can make money," Hirst said. "It's pretty simple. They're going to do proper things or certainly try to do it."

Hirst also said though there is some fatigue from having to make decisions as the county board of health, don't get frustrated with the health department for the data they present. They're just trying to give an accurate picture of where we are. If you have questions, feel free to contact Hirst or whoever is the commissioner from your area. There is a contact form on <a href="https://www.renogov.org/">renogov.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603379133702.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst wants to be clear that even though precautions, like indoor mask wearing, need to be taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, people shouldn't be afraid of patronizing businesses in the county or of going to work, as long as they are taking those precautions."Our local businesses, they're doing a great job to provide you, as well as their employees with a good, healthy, safe place to shop and just let you go about your daily routine," Hirst said.Hirst is encouraging people to find a balance as they go about their business."My philosophy is, don't let fear run your life," Hirst said. "Just be cautious and respect other people."Hirst also praised local manufacturers for how they are handling the pandemic."They want to provide you with a safe and healthy workplace, so you can make a living and they can make money," Hirst said. "It's pretty simple. They're going to do proper things or certainly try to do it."Hirst also said though there is some fatigue from having to make decisions as the county board of health, don't get frustrated with the health department for the data they present. They're just trying to give an accurate picture of where we are. If you have questions, feel free to contact Hirst or whoever is the commissioner from your area. There is a contact form on <a href="https://www.renogov.org/">renogov.org</a>.

Hirst: Take precautions, but support local businesses

HUTCHINSON,
Kan.— A Hutchinson man who is serving a life sentence for the 1978 murder of
his wife will have an appeal come before the Kansas Supreme Court next week. 

Phillip
Parks filed the motion in 2019 and the matter is up on the summary calendar for
next week. No oral arguments will be heard in the case.

Parks was
convicted of killing Rachel Parks in 1997 after pleading no contest. The
discovery of Parks crime in Hutchinson came 19 years after it happened when he was convicted of
the attempted murder of his new wife in New Mexico. At that time Parks told his
wife he would have to kill her just like he killed Rachel.

Parks had a
long fight through the appeals court system to withdraw his plea deal which was denied
by the state and Supreme Court. 

In the
current motion that will go before the Kansas Supreme Court next week, Parks argues that his
conviction for an unclassified felony before 1993 should be scored as a
non person felony. The district court disagreed and summarily denied his motion.


Parks then took his motion to the Kansas Supreme
Court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602791058568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan.— A Hutchinson man who is serving a life sentence for the 1978 murder of
his wife will have an appeal come before the Kansas Supreme Court next week. Phillip
Parks filed the motion in 2019 and the matter is up on the summary calendar for
next week. No oral arguments will be heard in the case.Parks was
convicted of killing Rachel Parks in 1997 after pleading no contest. The
discovery of Parks crime in Hutchinson came 19 years after it happened when he was convicted of
the attempted murder of his new wife in New Mexico. At that time Parks told his
wife he would have to kill her just like he killed Rachel.Parks had a
long fight through the appeals court system to withdraw his plea deal which was denied
by the state and Supreme Court. In the
current motion that will go before the Kansas Supreme Court next week, Parks argues that his
conviction for an unclassified felony before 1993 should be scored as a
non person felony. The district court disagreed and summarily denied his motion.
Parks then took his motion to the Kansas Supreme
Court.

1978 Hutchinson murder case back before the Kansas Supreme Court

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are numerous opportunities to donate blood in the area over
the next several weeks. The Red Cross is holding a blood drive Friday from 9
a.m. until 3 p.m. at Hutchinson Reginal Medical Center. 

Then in November, the Red Cross will host blood drives on
November 15 at Uptown Hutch and November 20th at the HutchCC Student Union.&nbsp; Other areas around the
county where you can donate blood include Nickerson on November 9 at the
Nickerson High School; South Hutchinson on November 12 at Our Lady of Guadalupe
Church; and November 18 at Fairfield High School in Langdon.

The Red Cross&nbsp;is&nbsp;testing blood, platelet and
plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The test may indicate if the donor’s
immune system has produced antibodies to this coronavirus, regardless of
whether an individual developed COVID-19 symptoms. Red Cross antibody tests
will be helpful to identify individuals who have COVID-19 antibodies and may
now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma
transfusions. Convalescent plasma is a type of blood donation collected from
COVID-19 survivors that have antibodies that may help patients who are actively
fighting the virus.

&nbsp;COVID-19 antibody test results will be available
within one to two weeks in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at
RedCrossBlood.org. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection
or immunity. The Red Cross is not testing donors to diagnose illness, referred
to as a diagnostic test. To protect the health and safety of Red Cross staff
and donors, it is important that individuals who do not feel well or believe
they may be ill with COVID-19 postpone donation.

To make an appointment to donate blood you can go to
redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS &nbsp;or (1-800-733-2767).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594833320537.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are numerous opportunities to donate blood in the area over
the next several weeks. The Red Cross is holding a blood drive Friday from 9
a.m. until 3 p.m. at Hutchinson Reginal Medical Center. Then in November, the Red Cross will host blood drives on
November 15 at Uptown Hutch and November 20th at the HutchCC Student Union.&nbsp; Other areas around the
county where you can donate blood include Nickerson on November 9 at the
Nickerson High School; South Hutchinson on November 12 at Our Lady of Guadalupe
Church; and November 18 at Fairfield High School in Langdon.The Red Cross&nbsp;is&nbsp;testing blood, platelet and
plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The test may indicate if the donor’s
immune system has produced antibodies to this coronavirus, regardless of
whether an individual developed COVID-19 symptoms. Red Cross antibody tests
will be helpful to identify individuals who have COVID-19 antibodies and may
now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma
transfusions. Convalescent plasma is a type of blood donation collected from
COVID-19 survivors that have antibodies that may help patients who are actively
fighting the virus.&nbsp;COVID-19 antibody test results will be available
within one to two weeks in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at
RedCrossBlood.org. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection
or immunity. The Red Cross is not testing donors to diagnose illness, referred
to as a diagnostic test. To protect the health and safety of Red Cross staff
and donors, it is important that individuals who do not feel well or believe
they may be ill with COVID-19 postpone donation.To make an appointment to donate blood you can go to
redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS &nbsp;or (1-800-733-2767).

Red Cross holding blood drives in Reno County over the next three weeks


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Ed Berger, who lost his State Senate primary to Dr. Mark Steffen in August, is going to take on the interim General Manager's position for the Kansas State Fair.

"I've always been a strong supporter and proponent of the fair," Berger said. "I've gone to the fair since I was in grade school. I think the only, perhaps, few years when I didn't go to the fair was when I was out in Western Kansas. The fair is so important to Hutchinson, the entire region, the state of Kansas. It really is the showcase for agriculture in the state."

Former General Manager Robin Jennison was a former Speaker of the Kansas House and candidate for governor. Berger doesn't have that kind of profile, but he believes his legislative service will help.

"I think it would be very helpful to have someone that has legislative contacts," Berger said. "Not saying I've got that many, but certainly I think I could be helpful as far as the legislature is concerned."

Berger is looking to fill in, but doesn't appear to have designs on the permanent job.&nbsp;

"It's an interim position," Berger said. "It's until they get a full-time manager. Certainly, that process needs to start sooner than later, get somebody who can take the fair to where it needs to go, take it to new heights."

The contract with Berger is due to be finalized by the Kansas State Fair Board in November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579184461670.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Ed Berger, who lost his State Senate primary to Dr. Mark Steffen in August, is going to take on the interim General Manager's position for the Kansas State Fair."I've always been a strong supporter and proponent of the fair," Berger said. "I've gone to the fair since I was in grade school. I think the only, perhaps, few years when I didn't go to the fair was when I was out in Western Kansas. The fair is so important to Hutchinson, the entire region, the state of Kansas. It really is the showcase for agriculture in the state."Former General Manager Robin Jennison was a former Speaker of the Kansas House and candidate for governor. Berger doesn't have that kind of profile, but he believes his legislative service will help."I think it would be very helpful to have someone that has legislative contacts," Berger said. "Not saying I've got that many, but certainly I think I could be helpful as far as the legislature is concerned."Berger is looking to fill in, but doesn't appear to have designs on the permanent job.&nbsp;"It's an interim position," Berger said. "It's until they get a full-time manager. Certainly, that process needs to start sooner than later, get somebody who can take the fair to where it needs to go, take it to new heights."The contract with Berger is due to be finalized by the Kansas State Fair Board in November.

Berger: Legislative experience helpful, just looking to fill in

Release from Reno County Health Department


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County Health Department confirms a fourteenth local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 died October 21, 2020.

Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.

Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Reno County Health Department
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County Health Department confirms a fourteenth local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 died October 21, 2020.Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

Fourteenth Reno County resident death from COVID-19 confirmed

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The next TEFAP commodity distribution in
Hutchinson is this Sunday. As always, the distribution will take place at the Dillon
Living Center at 1901 E 23rd Avenue from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.

The program is for low-income people of all ages and no registration
is required. Items are distributed on a first come first served basis. This is a
drive up distribution and there will be no access to the building.

Those who want to receive commodities are asked to line up
single file in your automobile and be courteous of each other. You will only be
able to pick up a box of food for yourself and not others.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591105874721.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The next TEFAP commodity distribution in
Hutchinson is this Sunday. As always, the distribution will take place at the Dillon
Living Center at 1901 E 23rd Avenue from 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.The program is for low-income people of all ages and no registration
is required. Items are distributed on a first come first served basis. This is a
drive up distribution and there will be no access to the building.Those who want to receive commodities are asked to line up
single file in your automobile and be courteous of each other. You will only be
able to pick up a box of food for yourself and not others.

TEFAP distribution is Sunday in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The COVID-19 active case count in Reno County is at 546 as of Wednesday afternoon. There are 218 community cases. 

The number hospitalized is at 16. Eighty-two people have spent time in the hospital since the beginning of the pandemic. Thirty-five have been admitted to the ICU and 11 have been intubated. Thirteen Reno County residents have died.

The community positive test rate is up to 10.90%, with an overall positive test rate of 16.17%.

This week, schools in Reno County remain in the red in the gating criteria.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The COVID-19 active case count in Reno County is at 546 as of Wednesday afternoon. There are 218 community cases. The number hospitalized is at 16. Eighty-two people have spent time in the hospital since the beginning of the pandemic. Thirty-five have been admitted to the ICU and 11 have been intubated. Thirteen Reno County residents have died.The community positive test rate is up to 10.90%, with an overall positive test rate of 16.17%.This week, schools in Reno County remain in the red in the gating criteria.

Case count at 546 as of Wednesday afternoon, 16 hospitalized


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The group of Hutchinson firefighters that were reassigned to the Calwood Fire over the weekend is staying in Colorado.

According to a Facebook post from the department Wednesday, the crew has been assigned to a structure protection group in Lyons, CO. 

They have been allowed a 7-day extension. Their last working day will now be October 28th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603362256402.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The group of Hutchinson firefighters that were reassigned to the Calwood Fire over the weekend is staying in Colorado.According to a Facebook post from the department Wednesday, the crew has been assigned to a structure protection group in Lyons, CO. They have been allowed a 7-day extension. Their last working day will now be October 28th.

Wildfire crew staying in Colorado

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court has refused to address the case of a Hutchinson man who received an eight-year departure from his sentence in the death of a Hutchinson man.&nbsp;

This after the Kansas Court of Appeals reversed the sentence against Taylor Lukone. Lukone was given the two-year sentence for a conviction of reckless second-degree murder in the death of 51-year-old Jose Lopez. Lopez was on a bicycle when Lukone rammed him with a car. The incident happened after a confrontation between the two parties.

At the time, Judge Trish Rose granted her own departure in the case, going against the plea agreement from both the state and the defense. Rose cited Lukone’s lack of criminal history and age as reasons for the 99-month departure.

But the Court of Appeals disagreed and ordered a new sentence that could run from nine to 11 years in prison. The matter moved to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court declined to hear the matter and sent the case back to Reno County where Lukone will be resentenced.

At the time of the ruling, the Court of Appeals stated that the extent of Rose’s departure was not proportionate to the severity level of Lukone's crimes. As a result, Rose’s 99-month departure was outside the framework of the legal standards and statutory limitations placed on it by the KSGA grid. Thus, this constituted an abuse of discretion.

The Court of Appeals ruling went on to say that anger that leads a person to murder someone in revenge is not condoned under the KSGA. And anger unrestrained, like the murder in this case, is required to be punished according to the grid under the KSGA.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603312960787.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court has refused to address the case of a Hutchinson man who received an eight-year departure from his sentence in the death of a Hutchinson man.&nbsp;This after the Kansas Court of Appeals reversed the sentence against Taylor Lukone. Lukone was given the two-year sentence for a conviction of reckless second-degree murder in the death of 51-year-old Jose Lopez. Lopez was on a bicycle when Lukone rammed him with a car. The incident happened after a confrontation between the two parties.At the time, Judge Trish Rose granted her own departure in the case, going against the plea agreement from both the state and the defense. Rose cited Lukone’s lack of criminal history and age as reasons for the 99-month departure.But the Court of Appeals disagreed and ordered a new sentence that could run from nine to 11 years in prison. The matter moved to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court declined to hear the matter and sent the case back to Reno County where Lukone will be resentenced.At the time of the ruling, the Court of Appeals stated that the extent of Rose’s departure was not proportionate to the severity level of Lukone's crimes. As a result, Rose’s 99-month departure was outside the framework of the legal standards and statutory limitations placed on it by the KSGA grid. Thus, this constituted an abuse of discretion.The Court of Appeals ruling went on to say that anger that leads a person to murder someone in revenge is not condoned under the KSGA. And anger unrestrained, like the murder in this case, is required to be punished according to the grid under the KSGA.

Supreme Court declines hearing appeal in murder case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The case involving a Hutchinson teen sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for killing his mother and sister will be before the Kansas Supreme Court next week.

Samuel Vonachen, who is now 21 years old, was tried as an adult and convicted of two counts of first-degree murder. Vonachen was convicted&nbsp; of setting fire to the family home in September of 2013. While his father got out of the home, his mother and sister were trapped upstairs.&nbsp;

Police found Vonachen walking toward the house, smelling of gasoline. After interrogation, he admitted to burning down the house. He was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, and one count of aggravated arson. The district court granted the state's motion to certify Vonachen as an adult. The jury rejected numerous claims of mental disease or defect and convicted him on all counts. He is not eligible for parole until 2039.

The defense motion before the Supreme Court states that Vonachen's rights were violated due to the state's abolishment of the insanity defense. The motion also states that Vonachen's admission to police should have been suppressed and that admission of the defendant's private writings in the trial should not have been allowed.&nbsp;

The matter will go before the Supreme Court on Tuesday, Oct. 27.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603309186370.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The case involving a Hutchinson teen sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for killing his mother and sister will be before the Kansas Supreme Court next week.Samuel Vonachen, who is now 21 years old, was tried as an adult and convicted of two counts of first-degree murder. Vonachen was convicted&nbsp; of setting fire to the family home in September of 2013. While his father got out of the home, his mother and sister were trapped upstairs.&nbsp;Police found Vonachen walking toward the house, smelling of gasoline. After interrogation, he admitted to burning down the house. He was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, and one count of aggravated arson. The district court granted the state's motion to certify Vonachen as an adult. The jury rejected numerous claims of mental disease or defect and convicted him on all counts. He is not eligible for parole until 2039.The defense motion before the Supreme Court states that Vonachen's rights were violated due to the state's abolishment of the insanity defense. The motion also states that Vonachen's admission to police should have been suppressed and that admission of the defendant's private writings in the trial should not have been allowed.&nbsp;The matter will go before the Supreme Court on Tuesday, Oct. 27.

Vonachen case goes before Supreme Court Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Central Kansas Economic Development District (SCKEDD) announced Wednesday it will partner with the Kansas Housing Resource Corporation to offer the Kansas Eviction Prevention Program in this area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The program should be live Thursday with an estimated $35 million in funding to support it. The time frame will be extremely short with an estimated end date at the end of November, although an official end date was not announced. SCKEDD says it's in the process of training and signing the required agreement documents with KHRC.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

SCKEDD is working to create a needs list of potential clients to begin helping them with rental assistance. SCKEDD offices do remain closed to the public and one-on-one help will be encouraged via phone calls, although in-person meetings with potential clients can be made by appointment only.&nbsp;

The Kansas Eviction Prevention Program (KEPP) provides rental assistance to households that have missed one or more rent payments as a result of the COVID pandemic. Landlords and tenants apply via a joint online process.&nbsp;

If the application is approved, the landlord receives rental assistance funds directly from KEPP, applies KEPP funds to the tenant’s account, and waives late fees for the month assistance was awarded. Approved tenants are eligible for a maximum of nine months of assistance, not to exceed $5,000 per household.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603307701187.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The South Central Kansas Economic Development District (SCKEDD) announced Wednesday it will partner with the Kansas Housing Resource Corporation to offer the Kansas Eviction Prevention Program in this area.&nbsp;&nbsp;The program should be live Thursday with an estimated $35 million in funding to support it. The time frame will be extremely short with an estimated end date at the end of November, although an official end date was not announced. SCKEDD says it's in the process of training and signing the required agreement documents with KHRC.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;SCKEDD is working to create a needs list of potential clients to begin helping them with rental assistance. SCKEDD offices do remain closed to the public and one-on-one help will be encouraged via phone calls, although in-person meetings with potential clients can be made by appointment only.&nbsp;The Kansas Eviction Prevention Program (KEPP) provides rental assistance to households that have missed one or more rent payments as a result of the COVID pandemic. Landlords and tenants apply via a joint online process.&nbsp;If the application is approved, the landlord receives rental assistance funds directly from KEPP, applies KEPP funds to the tenant’s account, and waives late fees for the month assistance was awarded. Approved tenants are eligible for a maximum of nine months of assistance, not to exceed $5,000 per household.&nbsp;

SCKEDD to provide rental assistance through Kansas HRC

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County is another step closer to having a new Health Department director.&nbsp;

According to Reno County Human Resources Director Renee Harris, five candidates were given online interviews this month. Out of those five, two finalists have been selected. Those finalists will have another interview before the county and a community panel on Oct. 30.&nbsp;

Harris says they hope to have a candidate for the County Commission to consider during the first meeting in November.

The names of the finalists were not disclosed, but Harris did say one candidate was local and one was from outside Reno County.

The new director will replace Nick Baldetti, who recently resigned to take a new position at McPherson College.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589983765832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County is another step closer to having a new Health Department director.&nbsp;According to Reno County Human Resources Director Renee Harris, five candidates were given online interviews this month. Out of those five, two finalists have been selected. Those finalists will have another interview before the county and a community panel on Oct. 30.&nbsp;Harris says they hope to have a candidate for the County Commission to consider during the first meeting in November.The names of the finalists were not disclosed, but Harris did say one candidate was local and one was from outside Reno County.The new director will replace Nick Baldetti, who recently resigned to take a new position at McPherson College.

Two finalists up for Health Department position

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of deaths in Reno County because of COVID-19 increased to 13 on Tuesday.

The Reno County Health Department confirms a thirteenth local resident with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 has died. That makes nine such deaths in the county this month.&nbsp;

Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.&nbsp;

Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602284404659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of deaths in Reno County because of COVID-19 increased to 13 on Tuesday.The Reno County Health Department confirms a thirteenth local resident with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 has died. That makes nine such deaths in the county this month.&nbsp;Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.&nbsp;Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

Another death attributed to COVID-19 in Reno Co. reported 

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The “Tales from Beyond: Reno County Urban Legends.” program that was scheduled for Friday, October 25 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Reno County Museum has been cancelled.

The health and safety of our visitors, staff, and volunteers is extremely important to us and due to indoor space constraints, we must cancel the “Tales from Beyond” program. We are planning to make the “Tales from Beyond” program available online soon. All other events will remain as scheduled at this time.

The Museum will remain open during regular business hours with adjusted hours for the Oodleplex play area for children. Museum hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday.

The Oodleplex closes at 3:00 p.m. daily for sanitizing. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602698414511.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Reno County MuseumHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The “Tales from Beyond: Reno County Urban Legends.” program that was scheduled for Friday, October 25 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Reno County Museum has been cancelled.The health and safety of our visitors, staff, and volunteers is extremely important to us and due to indoor space constraints, we must cancel the “Tales from Beyond” program. We are planning to make the “Tales from Beyond” program available online soon. All other events will remain as scheduled at this time.The Museum will remain open during regular business hours with adjusted hours for the Oodleplex play area for children. Museum hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday.The Oodleplex closes at 3:00 p.m. daily for sanitizing.

Reno County Museum program canceled for Friday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The annual seasonal drop in gasoline demand means lower prices at the pump.

"Gas demand across the country backtracked last week contributing to pump price decreases in 44 states, including Kansas," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas.

Kansas average this week is at $1.93 a gallon.

"That's 10th cheapest in the country," Steward said. "We're down a couple of cents from a week ago and four cents from a month ago."

Hutchinson and Reno County are about average.

"Hutchinson is looking at about $1.93 average," Steward said. "Reno County overall is at $1.92."

The reduction in demand and the switch over to winter blend gasoline should keep prices below $2 a gallon for the near future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579620767389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The annual seasonal drop in gasoline demand means lower prices at the pump."Gas demand across the country backtracked last week contributing to pump price decreases in 44 states, including Kansas," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas.Kansas average this week is at $1.93 a gallon."That's 10th cheapest in the country," Steward said. "We're down a couple of cents from a week ago and four cents from a month ago."Hutchinson and Reno County are about average."Hutchinson is looking at about $1.93 average," Steward said. "Reno County overall is at $1.92."The reduction in demand and the switch over to winter blend gasoline should keep prices below $2 a gallon for the near future.

AAA: Gas prices down due to lower demand

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

MCPHERSON COUNTY — 
I-135 in McPherson County will close Friday from mile marker 58 to 60 for bridge replacement. That's between the K-61 exit south of McPherson and the Highway 56 exit east of McPherson. 

The bridge is located just south of the U.S. 56 exit. Northbound and southbound I-135 will close at 7 p.m. Friday. Southbound I-135 will reopen at 6 a.m. on Saturday, weaather permitting. Northbound I-135 will reopen by 7 p.m. on Saturday, weather permitting.  

Traffic will follow a signed detour through McPherson via U.S. 56, Main Street and K-61.  No oversized loads will be allowed on the detour.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603287485383.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY — 
I-135 in McPherson County will close Friday from mile marker 58 to 60 for bridge replacement. That's between the K-61 exit south of McPherson and the Highway 56 exit east of McPherson. The bridge is located just south of the U.S. 56 exit. Northbound and southbound I-135 will close at 7 p.m. Friday. Southbound I-135 will reopen at 6 a.m. on Saturday, weaather permitting. Northbound I-135 will reopen by 7 p.m. on Saturday, weather permitting. Traffic will follow a signed detour through McPherson via U.S. 56, Main Street and K-61. No oversized loads will be allowed on the detour.

I-135 to close Friday, reopen Saturday in McPherson County


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson City Building Official Trent Maxwell has left for a job elsewhere, and the city is still looking at how to fill that position.

"We're kind of analyzing and reviewing what the city's specific needs are," said Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell. "That was a position that was held for quite awhile. I know everyone got used to certain protocols and whatnot, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't change a few of them, so that's what we're looking at."

"In a former job over in Johnson County, I held that position for, oh, seven or eight years, so I'm familiar with it," Cantrell said. "Right now, while the position is vacant, I'm pitching in with staff."

Cantrell believes they can take the time to get it right.

"Staff's doing a great job of coming together and covering some of those areas," Cantrell said. "I don't have any immediate concerns for having the position open. We are looking at that and coming up with some ideas as to how we can make that a better position for the contractors and local residents, kind of modernizing the position, if you will."

Cantrell expects the modified position to likely be filled in early 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592409609109.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson City Building Official Trent Maxwell has left for a job elsewhere, and the city is still looking at how to fill that position."We're kind of analyzing and reviewing what the city's specific needs are," said Hutchinson City Manager Jeff Cantrell. "That was a position that was held for quite awhile. I know everyone got used to certain protocols and whatnot, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't change a few of them, so that's what we're looking at."Cantrell is able to help."In a former job over in Johnson County, I held that position for, oh, seven or eight years, so I'm familiar with it," Cantrell said. "Right now, while the position is vacant, I'm pitching in with staff."Cantrell believes they can take the time to get it right."Staff's doing a great job of coming together and covering some of those areas," Cantrell said. "I don't have any immediate concerns for having the position open. We are looking at that and coming up with some ideas as to how we can make that a better position for the contractors and local residents, kind of modernizing the position, if you will."Cantrell expects the modified position to likely be filled in early 2021.

Cantrell: City taking a look at building official position


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Coincidentally, as of information provided to Hutch Post on Wednesday morning, there have been deaths of 12 Reno County residents from COVID-19. There have also been 12 deaths of patients at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center due to COVID-19. Only six of the deaths at HRMC are from Reno County residents. The other six are residents from other counties. Neither the county or the hospital is releasing demographic information on deaths.

"We are receiving patients from other parts of the state," Welch said. "Other hospitals are transferring in, or other patients are choosing to be here. Or, it's very possible, I don't know this for sure, but its very possible they could have been on their way to Wichita or somewhere else and ended up here."

Though Welch didn't have numbers on how many people were intubated before they died, he said he knew not all of them were.

"People don't necessarily need to be on a ventilator before they expire," Welch said. "This disease can happen very fast. I know, anecdotally, we had one on the floor that was not intubated that expired."

The point is that even though the number happens to match right now, it likely won't for long. The Reno County Health Department's dashboard is the best source for the death count of Reno County residents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Coincidentally, as of information provided to Hutch Post on Wednesday morning, there have been deaths of 12 Reno County residents from COVID-19. There have also been 12 deaths of patients at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center due to COVID-19. Only six of the deaths at HRMC are from Reno County residents. The other six are residents from other counties. Neither the county or the hospital is releasing demographic information on deaths."We are receiving patients from other parts of the state," Welch said. "Other hospitals are transferring in, or other patients are choosing to be here. Or, it's very possible, I don't know this for sure, but its very possible they could have been on their way to Wichita or somewhere else and ended up here."Though Welch didn't have numbers on how many people were intubated before they died, he said he knew not all of them were."People don't necessarily need to be on a ventilator before they expire," Welch said. "This disease can happen very fast. I know, anecdotally, we had one on the floor that was not intubated that expired."The point is that even though the number happens to match right now, it likely won't for long. The Reno County Health Department's dashboard is the best source for the death count of Reno County residents.

Hospital and county death numbers happen to match as of Wednesday, but are different data sets


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County community COVID-19 testing continues. There were 32 appointments scheduled at Fairfield on Tuesday and they collected 64 samples.

Future testing dates in outlying communities are Thursday, October 22, 2020 at Buhler Mennonite Brethren Church 415 N West St Buhler, KS 67522 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 24, 2020 at Pretty Prairie Elementary School 320 S Rhodes St Pretty Prairie, KS 67570 from 10 a.m. to noon.

There will be a testing site at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds on the following dates and times:

Tuesdays: October 27, November 3, November 10, November 17 November 24, December 1, December 8, December 15, December 22 and December 29 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Saturdays: November 7, November 21, December 5 and December 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Community testing is vital to continuing to slow the spread of COVID-19. To make a testing appointment for any of the future testing dates call 844-834-3657.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603292471919.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County community COVID-19 testing continues. There were 32 appointments scheduled at Fairfield on Tuesday and they collected 64 samples.Future testing dates in outlying communities are Thursday, October 22, 2020 at Buhler Mennonite Brethren Church 415 N West St Buhler, KS 67522 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 24, 2020 at Pretty Prairie Elementary School 320 S Rhodes St Pretty Prairie, KS 67570 from 10 a.m. to noon.There will be a testing site at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds on the following dates and times:Tuesdays: October 27, November 3, November 10, November 17 November 24, December 1, December 8, December 15, December 22 and December 29 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.Saturdays: November 7, November 21, December 5 and December 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.Community testing is vital to continuing to slow the spread of COVID-19. To make a testing appointment for any of the future testing dates call 844-834-3657.

Community testing dates set for the rest of 2020 in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One person was injured in a car/ pedestrian accident in the city Tuesday evening.

Hutchinson Police reports that 18-year-old William Lee was driving in the 900 block of N. Main when he hit 30-year-old Jasmine Claycomb.

Claycomb was taken by EMS to Wesley medical Center. Her condition is not known. The accident happened around 7:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593015667557.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One person was injured in a car/ pedestrian accident in the city Tuesday evening.Hutchinson Police reports that 18-year-old William Lee was driving in the 900 block of N. Main when he hit 30-year-old Jasmine Claycomb.Claycomb was taken by EMS to Wesley medical Center. Her condition is not known. The accident happened around 7:30 p.m.

Hutchinson woman injured in car/ pedestrian accident

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Republican Committee will meet in a special session to appoint a person to fill the unexpired term of County Commissioner Bob Bush. Bush died last week after a long battle with cancer. 

The meeting is set for October 27th at 6:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the Hutch CC campus. The person appointed will serve the rest of Bush's term which will run through the second Tuesday of January 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573683238540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Republican Committee will meet in a special session to appoint a person to fill the unexpired term of County Commissioner Bob Bush. Bush died last week after a long battle with cancer. The meeting is set for October 27th at 6:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the Hutch CC campus. The person appointed will serve the rest of Bush's term which will run through the second Tuesday of January 2021.

Republican committee to find replacement for former Commissioner Bob Bush


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Both the county's overall case count and the community case count continue to rise. 

As of Tuesday afternoon, Reno County is at 575 active cases and 256 community cases. 

The number hospitalized is down to 15. It was as high as 18. Eighty people have spent time in the hospital since the beginning of the pandemic. Thirty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 10 have been intubated. Twelve people have died.

The community positive test rate is still at 10.21%, with an overall positive test rate of 16.20%.

The county's school superintendents will get their first preliminary look at the latest gating criteria numbers Wednesday, but they will not be verified until Friday. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Both the county's overall case count and the community case count continue to rise. As of Tuesday afternoon, Reno County is at 575 active cases and 256 community cases. The number hospitalized is down to 15. It was as high as 18. Eighty people have spent time in the hospital since the beginning of the pandemic. Thirty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 10 have been intubated. Twelve people have died.The community positive test rate is still at 10.21%, with an overall positive test rate of 16.20%.The county's school superintendents will get their first preliminary look at the latest gating criteria numbers Wednesday, but they will not be verified until Friday. This week, schools in Reno County remain in the red in the gating criteria.

Case counts up, hospitalizations down as of Tuesday afternoon

HARVEY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Newton.

Just after 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, fire crews responded to a house fire in the 800 block of North Walnut, according to a social media report from&nbsp;Newton Fire and EMS.

The fire was brought under control quickly. Investigators found the body of a man deceased inside. 

&nbsp;The State Fire Marshal’s Office has been requested to help with the investigation.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603277501131.png" alt="Crews on the scene of Tuesday's deadly fire in Newton-photo courtesy&nbsp;Newton Fire/EMS " />
 <figcaption>Crews on the scene of Tuesday's deadly fire in Newton-photo courtesy&nbsp;Newton Fire/EMS </figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Newton.Just after 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, fire crews responded to a house fire in the 800 block of North Walnut, according to a social media report from&nbsp;Newton Fire and EMS.The fire was brought under control quickly. Investigators found the body of a man deceased inside. &nbsp;The State Fire Marshal’s Office has been requested to help with the investigation.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

Body of man found after house fire in Newton

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After some delay, a Reno County man who entered guilty pleas to numerous sexual exploitation charges is scheduled for sentencing Wednesday in Reno County District Court.

Patrick White entered pleas to four counts of sexual exploitation of a child. As part of the plea, a fifth count was dismissed.

White was arrested after deputies with the Reno County Sheriff's Department issued a search warrant on his home and cell phone.&nbsp;

The warrant stemmed from the allegations from a separate law enforcement agency that was made aware of White’s ongoing suspicious activity. The crimes are said to have occurred between October of 2018 and February of 2020.&nbsp;

Sentencing will be before Judge Joe McCarville.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603225531118.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After some delay, a Reno County man who entered guilty pleas to numerous sexual exploitation charges is scheduled for sentencing Wednesday in Reno County District Court.Patrick White entered pleas to four counts of sexual exploitation of a child. As part of the plea, a fifth count was dismissed.White was arrested after deputies with the Reno County Sheriff's Department issued a search warrant on his home and cell phone.&nbsp;The warrant stemmed from the allegations from a separate law enforcement agency that was made aware of White’s ongoing suspicious activity. The crimes are said to have occurred between October of 2018 and February of 2020.&nbsp;Sentencing will be before Judge Joe McCarville.

Local