HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 444 as of Monday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 32 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 7,390 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 420 cases in the community at large. 6,835 people have recovered thus far.

Ten Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred forty-one total have been hospitalized. One hundred have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.41%. 36.28% of the population has been tested.

There are still two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. They are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 444 as of Monday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 32 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 7,390 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 420 cases in the community at large. 6,835 people have recovered thus far.Ten Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred forty-one total have been hospitalized. One hundred have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.41%. 36.28% of the population has been tested.There are still two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. They are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Case count at 444, with 420 in community as of Monday afternoon, deaths stay at 111

The impeachment article is delivered to the Senate, an appeal for convicted domestic terrorists in Kansas is pushed back and more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The impeachment article is delivered to the Senate, an appeal for convicted domestic terrorists in Kansas is pushed back and more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="January 26, 2021 Morning News" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/ttbtf-f8a679?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=0&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=1&pfauth=&btn-skin=107"></iframe></div>

January 26, 2021 Morning News

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The quarterly earnings parade continues Tuesday as ADM will release its fourth quarter earnings.

In its last report, the oilseed company posted third quarter net income of $225 million. Earnings, adjusted for non-recurring costs, were $0.89 per share. Total revenue was $15.13 billion in the period, which fell short of forecasts.

ADM employs around 50 workers at full operation in Hutchinson and carries a total valuation in the county of just under $2.5 million while paying just over $406,000 in property taxes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580159000381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The quarterly earnings parade continues Tuesday as ADM will release its fourth quarter earnings.In its last report, the oilseed company posted third quarter net income of $225 million. Earnings, adjusted for non-recurring costs, were $0.89 per share. Total revenue was $15.13 billion in the period, which fell short of forecasts.ADM employs around 50 workers at full operation in Hutchinson and carries a total valuation in the county of just under $2.5 million while paying just over $406,000 in property taxes.

ADM to release 4Q report Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Everyone is beyond ready to have this COVID-19 mitigation over. The Hutchinson Public Library understands this. Officials released some numbers on Monday to show how COVID has impacted the library.&nbsp;

According to the figures, the library had 344,871 items circulated. In 2020, the number fell to just 201,691. E-Book and audio book downloads did increase as people tried to find ways to use the facility. Those numbers increased in 2020 by more than 21,000 circulations to 55,091.

In response to the stay-at-home order and continued best health practices of avoiding crowded places, the library has increased the digital collection by more than 33% since March.

Since the library reopened in early July, an average of 168 patrons visit the library daily, or about 25 per hour, when open.

Since November, approximately 11 patrons use the Library Material Pick Up Service per day.

About 15 patrons per day are coming into the library for the first time since COVID-19 mitigation began.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588865810156.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Everyone is beyond ready to have this COVID-19 mitigation over. The Hutchinson Public Library understands this. Officials released some numbers on Monday to show how COVID has impacted the library.&nbsp;According to the figures, the library had 344,871 items circulated. In 2020, the number fell to just 201,691. E-Book and audio book downloads did increase as people tried to find ways to use the facility. Those numbers increased in 2020 by more than 21,000 circulations to 55,091.In response to the stay-at-home order and continued best health practices of avoiding crowded places, the library has increased the digital collection by more than 33% since March.Since the library reopened in early July, an average of 168 patrons visit the library daily, or about 25 per hour, when open.Since November, approximately 11 patrons use the Library Material Pick Up Service per day.About 15 patrons per day are coming into the library for the first time since COVID-19 mitigation began.

Library adjusting to meet needs of patrons

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

BUHLER, Kan.
— The Buhler City Council will meet Tuesday evening and&nbsp; take
time to appoint a new council president. The council has not had a president since
Jake Schmidt became the city’s mayor after Daniel Friesen resigned from the
post when elected to the Board of Reno County Commissioners. 

Once that
housekeeping item is finished, the council will make appointments to the
Economic Board and the Recreation Commission and pass a resolution giving the
11 full-time employees a wage increase. The increase amounts to 2% and was approved in November.

The Council
will finish off the meeting with the usual reports. Tuesday’s meeting of the
Buhler City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the city offices at 219 N Main. There will
be public access but seating will be very limited.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579535694180.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan.
— The Buhler City Council will meet Tuesday evening and&nbsp; take
time to appoint a new council president. The council has not had a president since
Jake Schmidt became the city’s mayor after Daniel Friesen resigned from the
post when elected to the Board of Reno County Commissioners. Once that
housekeeping item is finished, the council will make appointments to the
Economic Board and the Recreation Commission and pass a resolution giving the
11 full-time employees a wage increase. The increase amounts to 2% and was approved in November.The Council
will finish off the meeting with the usual reports. Tuesday’s meeting of the
Buhler City Council begins at 7 p.m. at the city offices at 219 N Main. There will
be public access but seating will be very limited.

Buhler City Council to vote on new Council President and wage increase Tuesday

NICKERSON,
Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will once again address the two vacancies
on the board during tonight’s agenda session. The Board has been short two
seats since two board members resigned last year.

Since then, several people have applied for the spots for which they are qualified, only to be voted down by the current
board. Two of those names are back on the agenda for tonight. They are RJ
Wenzel for the vacant Reno Valley seat and Larry Meadows for the South Hutchinson
seat. 

Also tonight, the board will do their first of the year housekeeping including approval to
elect a new board president. Even though the district doesn’t elect a new
president until July they still must pass the resolution to do so at the first
of the year. 

In addition, the
board will go over several personnel matters including the resignation of head
football coach John Wellman and Head Volleyball coach Julie Bauer along with
three elementary school teachers.

Tonight’s
USD 309 School Board meeting begins at 7 p.m. at Reno Valley Middle School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582640712689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON,
Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will once again address the two vacancies
on the board during tonight’s agenda session. The Board has been short two
seats since two board members resigned last year.Since then, several people have applied for the spots for which they are qualified, only to be voted down by the current
board. Two of those names are back on the agenda for tonight. They are RJ
Wenzel for the vacant Reno Valley seat and Larry Meadows for the South Hutchinson
seat. Also tonight, the board will do their first of the year housekeeping including approval to
elect a new board president. Even though the district doesn’t elect a new
president until July they still must pass the resolution to do so at the first
of the year. In addition, the
board will go over several personnel matters including the resignation of head
football coach John Wellman and Head Volleyball coach Julie Bauer along with
three elementary school teachers.Tonight’s
USD 309 School Board meeting begins at 7 p.m. at Reno Valley Middle School.

USD 309 to look over vacant positions again


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Internal Revenue Service recently announced that they will start accepting returns for the 2020 tax year next month.

"This year, we had to push the date back to February 12," said spokesperson Michael Devine. "That's the date we're going to start processing tax returns. The law was passed in December on the 27th that changed how we do some things and it required additional programming and testing of our system. In order to make sure that we get it right on our end, we pushed the date back to give our folks more time. A lot of these changes had to do with the Recovery Rebate Credit that you'll file on your 2020 return to claim it if you didn't get the economic impact payment, but you can still file if you've got all your documents."

However, there is no hurry to file this year. The deadline is normal, but the processing window is smaller.

"We aren't even going to start processing returns until February 12," Devine said. "Make sure you have all of the documents. Do that return one time. If you do think you made a mistake and you have to file an amended return, wait until your first tax return is processed. If you file that amended return, you're going to have two 1040s in the system at the same time. It's going to look to our system like tax fraud, both of them are going to bounce out of the system and any refund that you were expecting is going to be delayed until we work it out."

Also, as has been the case in previous years, those with certain tax credits they are eligible for will have their returns delayed a little while.

"That includes the Earned Income Tax Credit," Devine said. "Last year, about 174,000 in Kansas got over $400 million in benefits. By law, those refunds, the entire refund has to be held until February 15. If you get everything and you file before we start processing returns, as soon as those come through, it will probably be the 15th and then that money will go out."

If you have questions about your return, or how to file for free, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/">go to irs.gov</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611593538336.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Internal Revenue Service recently announced that they will start accepting returns for the 2020 tax year next month."This year, we had to push the date back to February 12," said spokesperson Michael Devine. "That's the date we're going to start processing tax returns. The law was passed in December on the 27th that changed how we do some things and it required additional programming and testing of our system. In order to make sure that we get it right on our end, we pushed the date back to give our folks more time. A lot of these changes had to do with the Recovery Rebate Credit that you'll file on your 2020 return to claim it if you didn't get the economic impact payment, but you can still file if you've got all your documents."However, there is no hurry to file this year. The deadline is normal, but the processing window is smaller."We aren't even going to start processing returns until February 12," Devine said. "Make sure you have all of the documents. Do that return one time. If you do think you made a mistake and you have to file an amended return, wait until your first tax return is processed. If you file that amended return, you're going to have two 1040s in the system at the same time. It's going to look to our system like tax fraud, both of them are going to bounce out of the system and any refund that you were expecting is going to be delayed until we work it out."Also, as has been the case in previous years, those with certain tax credits they are eligible for will have their returns delayed a little while."That includes the Earned Income Tax Credit," Devine said. "Last year, about 174,000 in Kansas got over $400 million in benefits. By law, those refunds, the entire refund has to be held until February 15. If you get everything and you file before we start processing returns, as soon as those come through, it will probably be the 15th and then that money will go out."If you have questions about your return, or how to file for free, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/">go to irs.gov</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

IRS: Tax returns to be accepted beginning Feb. 12, EITC refunds still delayed

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

Dreams have been on my mind lately. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream of equality; our founding fathers’ dream of a government of, by, and for the people; and the dreams of little girls who want to grow up to be president of the United States of America.

Some dreams have a fairytale like quality where they feel grand, pure and wondrous. I think this comes from our habit of imagining the joy and pleasure that would result from a dream come true. In this euphoric idealization, so many of us forget to think about what it really takes to make dreams a reality.

Dr. King painted an eloquent and noble picture of a society that values equality, be he was not naïve. He fought discrimination, injustice and hatred in every step toward his dream. Our founding fathers built an experimental framework for government that would give the people unprecedented power and freedom, but they were not starry-eyed. They staked their lives and fortunes on this new government with no certainty that it would function. Vice President Kamala Harris was recently inaugurated into the highest office any female has ever held, but she is not without battle scars. She has labored to build a reputation of competence to overcome prejudices that exist around her race and gender.

Dreams are so much more than regular goals or accomplishments; they are built on hope and grow in the heart and mind of the dreamer. In fact, the definition of a dream is a cherished aspiration, ambition or ideal.

Earlier this month, I had a dream come true. I received the top recognition in the American Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture competition. This is the equivalent of winning a national championship in sports except it was for my work as a Farm Bureau leader and overall advancement of the agriculture industry.

When most people learn of my achievement, they are not very interested in discussing the important impacts I have made in my industry and community or how humbled I am to have been recognized among a field of talented young agriculture leaders doing great things in their communities across the country. People instead want to talk about the new Ford truck I won as a prize because they imagine how great it would be for them to win a truck. I am grateful for the truck, but it was not the real motivation of my efforts.

That cherished nature in our dreams makes us particularly vulnerable to the effects of plagiarism and distortion to those dreams. We can all benefit from recognizing that we should not try to make someone else’s dream our own aspirations, ambitions or ideals.

As you encounter humans around you, keep in mind that their dreams are personal and valuable. Do not claim other’s causes unless you are committed to live for them in your life or assume that all dreams are made in your image. Conversely, you should applaud others who are achieving great things; they have worked hard joy is merited.

As for your own dreams, I urge you to pursue them courageously like the founding fathers, virtuously like Dr. King, tenaciously like Vice President Harris and with the unbridled hope that comes from the passion of our hearts. We all can’t wait to see you succeed.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancherDreams have been on my mind lately. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream of equality; our founding fathers’ dream of a government of, by, and for the people; and the dreams of little girls who want to grow up to be president of the United States of America.Some dreams have a fairytale like quality where they feel grand, pure and wondrous. I think this comes from our habit of imagining the joy and pleasure that would result from a dream come true. In this euphoric idealization, so many of us forget to think about what it really takes to make dreams a reality.Dr. King painted an eloquent and noble picture of a society that values equality, be he was not naïve. He fought discrimination, injustice and hatred in every step toward his dream. Our founding fathers built an experimental framework for government that would give the people unprecedented power and freedom, but they were not starry-eyed. They staked their lives and fortunes on this new government with no certainty that it would function. Vice President Kamala Harris was recently inaugurated into the highest office any female has ever held, but she is not without battle scars. She has labored to build a reputation of competence to overcome prejudices that exist around her race and gender.Dreams are so much more than regular goals or accomplishments; they are built on hope and grow in the heart and mind of the dreamer. In fact, the definition of a dream is a cherished aspiration, ambition or ideal.Earlier this month, I had a dream come true. I received the top recognition in the American Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers Excellence in Agriculture competition. This is the equivalent of winning a national championship in sports except it was for my work as a Farm Bureau leader and overall advancement of the agriculture industry.When most people learn of my achievement, they are not very interested in discussing the important impacts I have made in my industry and community or how humbled I am to have been recognized among a field of talented young agriculture leaders doing great things in their communities across the country. People instead want to talk about the new Ford truck I won as a prize because they imagine how great it would be for them to win a truck. I am grateful for the truck, but it was not the real motivation of my efforts.That cherished nature in our dreams makes us particularly vulnerable to the effects of plagiarism and distortion to those dreams. We can all benefit from recognizing that we should not try to make someone else’s dream our own aspirations, ambitions or ideals.As you encounter humans around you, keep in mind that their dreams are personal and valuable. Do not claim other’s causes unless you are committed to live for them in your life or assume that all dreams are made in your image. Conversely, you should applaud others who are achieving great things; they have worked hard joy is merited.As for your own dreams, I urge you to pursue them courageously like the founding fathers, virtuously like Dr. King, tenaciously like Vice President Harris and with the unbridled hope that comes from the passion of our hearts. We all can’t wait to see you succeed."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Making Dreams True


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Donna Davis, executive director at BrightHouse, will be stepping aside later this year.

"When I walked in the door the first day, there was a stack of bills sitting there to be paid," Davis said. "I thought they hadn't been paid because there wasn't a director around to get it done, but that's not why. We didn't have any money. In four years, we've gotten operationally sound. We have a long-range, short-range, strategic plan that's guiding the work that we do. We have core values that guide our work. We have policy and procedures in place. We have money in the bank so we don't have to worry. If the shelter house burned down, what would we do? Now we know. We have a plan."

Her replacement will need to be ready to take the agency through the next steps.

"The agency mission of supporting victims, the new director is going to have to support that mission 100%," Davis said. "Also, our vision of working to create a community where domestic and sexual violence does not exist. That's the work that we're doing with kids so much in schools and youth groups and it's one of those big, hairy audacious visions."

"We're going to get to hire somebody six weeks before I go," Davis said. "That way, I can mentor and really facilitate the long-term success of that new person. This is really critical to the organization. When I came in the door, there was nobody. The board president could give me some historical knowledge and past of the organization, but there was nobody who could tell me anything about the day to day operations."

The board would like to make a hire by March 15, with the goal of allowing Davis to fully retire by May 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584722264783.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Donna Davis, executive director at BrightHouse, will be stepping aside later this year."When I walked in the door the first day, there was a stack of bills sitting there to be paid," Davis said. "I thought they hadn't been paid because there wasn't a director around to get it done, but that's not why. We didn't have any money. In four years, we've gotten operationally sound. We have a long-range, short-range, strategic plan that's guiding the work that we do. We have core values that guide our work. We have policy and procedures in place. We have money in the bank so we don't have to worry. If the shelter house burned down, what would we do? Now we know. We have a plan."Her replacement will need to be ready to take the agency through the next steps."The agency mission of supporting victims, the new director is going to have to support that mission 100%," Davis said. "Also, our vision of working to create a community where domestic and sexual violence does not exist. That's the work that we're doing with kids so much in schools and youth groups and it's one of those big, hairy audacious visions."There will be some time for transition."We're going to get to hire somebody six weeks before I go," Davis said. "That way, I can mentor and really facilitate the long-term success of that new person. This is really critical to the organization. When I came in the door, there was nobody. The board president could give me some historical knowledge and past of the organization, but there was nobody who could tell me anything about the day to day operations."The board would like to make a hire by March 15, with the goal of allowing Davis to fully retire by May 1.

BrightHouse director to retire later this year

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 459 as of Sunday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.

Out of 7,356 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 435 cases in the community at large. 6,786 people have recovered thus far.

Ten Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred forty-one total have been hospitalized. Ninety-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.34%. 36.19% of the population has been tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 459 as of Sunday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 32 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 7,356 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 435 cases in the community at large. 6,786 people have recovered thus far.Ten Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred forty-one total have been hospitalized. Ninety-nine have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.34%. 36.19% of the population has been tested.There are still two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. They are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Case count at 459, with 435 in community as of Sunday evening, deaths stay at 111

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three people were able to escape a Sunday afternoon house fire in Hutchinson.

Firefighters were called at 5:20 p.m. Sunday to 505 North Washington for a report of a house fire. Fire crews reported heavy fire and smoke coming from a window on the front side of the house. 

Two adults and one child were home. All got out safe. The fire was contained in the bedroom where it started, but the smoke and heat damage have left the home uninhabitable.

Investigators say the homeowner was using a lighter as a flashlight and caught the underside of the bed on fire. No one was hurt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611537889704.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three people were able to escape a Sunday afternoon house fire in Hutchinson.Firefighters were called at 5:20 p.m. Sunday to 505 North Washington for a report of a house fire. Fire crews reported heavy fire and smoke coming from a window on the front side of the house. Two adults and one child were home. All got out safe. The fire was contained in the bedroom where it started, but the smoke and heat damage have left the home uninhabitable.Investigators say the homeowner was using a lighter as a flashlight and caught the underside of the bed on fire. No one was hurt.

Three people escape Sunday afternoon house fire

A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service from midnight Sunday to 6 p.m. Monday. Mixed precipitation is expected. Total snow accumulations from a trace to 3 inches and ice accumulations of around one tenth of an inch are possible.

Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute Monday.

Slow down and use caution while traveling.

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606907543189.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service from midnight Sunday to 6 p.m. Monday. Mixed precipitation is expected. Total snow accumulations from a trace to 3 inches and ice accumulations of around one tenth of an inch are possible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611491240344.jpeg" alt="WinterWx01242021.JPG" />
 <figcaption>WinterWx01242021.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute Monday.Slow down and use caution while traveling.The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Winter Weather Advisory will start midnight Sunday into Monday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With the article of impeachment to be brought from the House to the Senate on Monday ahead of a trial next month, a legal expert from the University of Kansas notes that presidential impeachments are rare and the rules can be mostly made by the Senate when it comes to a trial.

"The Constitution says very little about the procedures required for any impeachment," said Lumen "Lou" Mulligan, Earl B. Shurtz Research Professor at KU Law. "One, trial shall be done by the Senate. Two, the Senators shall vote as a whole body, with two-thirds required to convict and in the case of the impeachment of the president, the Chief Justice shall preside."

It's important to note that whatever the rules have been in the past, the body can vote to change them.

"Impeachments happen, of course, not of Presidents with frequency, thank goodness, but we do have impeachments of judges and other officers that happened over the course of our history with some regularity and so there's rules about that and how that can be done," Mulligan said. "The Senate, in the case of lower level officers, has engaged in impeachment for part of the day and other business for the other half of the day."

Rules changes do not require the same majority as a conviction, so in an evenly divided Senate, if Democratic leadership wanted to, they could give Vice President Harris a large role in the process that she wouldn't otherwise have.

"If a rules change were 50-50, it would go to the Vice President, and then she would be the 51st vote to change the rules of the Senate."

In fact, if a conviction were obtained, other types of censure, like not allowing another run for federal office, would then only require that simple majority. Conviction is where the high bar is set.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588604317484.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With the article of impeachment to be brought from the House to the Senate on Monday ahead of a trial next month, a legal expert from the University of Kansas notes that presidential impeachments are rare and the rules can be mostly made by the Senate when it comes to a trial."The Constitution says very little about the procedures required for any impeachment," said Lumen "Lou" Mulligan, Earl B. Shurtz Research Professor at KU Law. "One, trial shall be done by the Senate. Two, the Senators shall vote as a whole body, with two-thirds required to convict and in the case of the impeachment of the president, the Chief Justice shall preside."It's important to note that whatever the rules have been in the past, the body can vote to change them."Impeachments happen, of course, not of Presidents with frequency, thank goodness, but we do have impeachments of judges and other officers that happened over the course of our history with some regularity and so there's rules about that and how that can be done," Mulligan said. "The Senate, in the case of lower level officers, has engaged in impeachment for part of the day and other business for the other half of the day."Rules changes do not require the same majority as a conviction, so in an evenly divided Senate, if Democratic leadership wanted to, they could give Vice President Harris a large role in the process that she wouldn't otherwise have."If a rules change were 50-50, it would go to the Vice President, and then she would be the 51st vote to change the rules of the Senate."In fact, if a conviction were obtained, other types of censure, like not allowing another run for federal office, would then only require that simple majority. Conviction is where the high bar is set.

Mulligan: Senate has control of impeachment trial process for the most part

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will take action on a contract with a firm that will conduct a salary and compensation study. The contract with the Arnold Group will cost the county $56,118. The county received six proposals.

The study comes at the request of county commissioners who decided the study was necessary following a work session in November.

The board will also take a second look at a proposal that would drop the number of commission meetings to just two per month. Under the proposal, the meetings would be held the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Special meetings and work sessions could be called if needed. The format of the meetings would not change from what they are now.&nbsp;

The board can approve the policy as it is proposed, make changes to the policy or deny it and keep things as they are.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611352405463.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will take action on a contract with a firm that will conduct a salary and compensation study. The contract with the Arnold Group will cost the county $56,118. The county received six proposals.The study comes at the request of county commissioners who decided the study was necessary following a work session in November.The board will also take a second look at a proposal that would drop the number of commission meetings to just two per month. Under the proposal, the meetings would be held the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Special meetings and work sessions could be called if needed. The format of the meetings would not change from what they are now.&nbsp;The board can approve the policy as it is proposed, make changes to the policy or deny it and keep things as they are.&nbsp;Tuesday’s Reno County Commission meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Wage study proposal part of commission meeting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 School Board will hear reports from four schools within the district that are moving toward the Apollo redesign program.

HMS-7 and HMS-8, along with Graber and Morgan elementary schools, will give updates on their progress through the program, which allows schools to tailor learning needs to students.

The board will look over the 2021-22 district calendar. Under the proposed calendar, school would start Aug. 17 and Aug. 18. Students will be out of class for three days at Thanksgiving and from Dec. 2o to Jan. 3 for Christmas break.

Students will also get time off for spring break from March 14 to March 18. The last day for students will be May 26.

Monday's meeting of the USD 308 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the Career and Technical Education Academy at 800 15th Circle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 School Board will hear reports from four schools within the district that are moving toward the Apollo redesign program.HMS-7 and HMS-8, along with Graber and Morgan elementary schools, will give updates on their progress through the program, which allows schools to tailor learning needs to students.The board will look over the 2021-22 district calendar. Under the proposed calendar, school would start Aug. 17 and Aug. 18. Students will be out of class for three days at Thanksgiving and from Dec. 2o to Jan. 3 for Christmas break.Students will also get time off for spring break from March 14 to March 18. The last day for students will be May 26.Monday's meeting of the USD 308 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the Career and Technical Education Academy at 800 15th Circle.

School board to hear redesign reports


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Karen Hammersmith with the Reno County Health Department knows that the 500 shots the county received this week isn't nearly enough for the people who need the COVID-19 vaccination, let alone those who want it.

"We're just working on a supply and demand," Hammersmith said. "You know, we're hoping then we can expect to see another 500 doses next Wednesday, because we received it this Wednesday. That is our hope and our goal, but once again, that's just another 500 doses."

We're still early enough in the process that those who are at the top of the list will get calls from their medical provider to get the vaccination.

"Once we do get a sufficient supply in, as manufacturers catch up and they give us a little bit more, we would look to go to an open pod setting at the Sports Arena and really kind of open that up and have online registration for that," Hammersmith said.

However, according to the numbers released by the county, just vaccinating the phase two groups will almost certainly take months, if supplies stay constant. Assuming that there is no crossover, there are over 20,000 people just in the phase two groups <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/cb748e64-ecce-4133-8958-e7242c055695">listed by the county in their release</a>. The COVID-19 vaccine is a two shot series, so 500 shots really only fully vaccinates 250 people. 20,000 divided by 250 is 80. No one expects the vaccination to actually take 80 more weeks, but to pretend that the end is around the corner would be a false assumption.

"Continue to do all the things that we've been saying," Hammersmith said. "Wear a mask, social distance, keep in those small cohorts and stay at home if you are feeling ill."

Obviously, there will be some individuals that qualify in more than one group, so the numbers are likely a little lower than that, not to mention those who would refuse the vaccination for whatever reason, but even if you sign up for the online tool when it becomes available, it will likely be a lengthy period before a public vaccination clinic would happen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604716965620.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Karen Hammersmith with the Reno County Health Department knows that the 500 shots the county received this week isn't nearly enough for the people who need the COVID-19 vaccination, let alone those who want it."We're just working on a supply and demand," Hammersmith said. "You know, we're hoping then we can expect to see another 500 doses next Wednesday, because we received it this Wednesday. That is our hope and our goal, but once again, that's just another 500 doses."We're still early enough in the process that those who are at the top of the list will get calls from their medical provider to get the vaccination."Once we do get a sufficient supply in, as manufacturers catch up and they give us a little bit more, we would look to go to an open pod setting at the Sports Arena and really kind of open that up and have online registration for that," Hammersmith said.However, according to the numbers released by the county, just vaccinating the phase two groups will almost certainly take months, if supplies stay constant. Assuming that there is no crossover, there are over 20,000 people just in the phase two groups <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/cb748e64-ecce-4133-8958-e7242c055695">listed by the county in their release</a>. The COVID-19 vaccine is a two shot series, so 500 shots really only fully vaccinates 250 people. 20,000 divided by 250 is 80. No one expects the vaccination to actually take 80 more weeks, but to pretend that the end is around the corner would be a false assumption. "Continue to do all the things that we've been saying," Hammersmith said. "Wear a mask, social distance, keep in those small cohorts and stay at home if you are feeling ill."Obviously, there will be some individuals that qualify in more than one group, so the numbers are likely a little lower than that, not to mention those who would refuse the vaccination for whatever reason, but even if you sign up for the online tool when it becomes available, it will likely be a lengthy period before a public vaccination clinic would happen.

Hammersmith: COVID-19 vaccine supply very limited

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Visit Hutch Tourism Coalition announced Friday the initiative called Caught in the Act Hutch with its mission to encourage mask wearing in Reno County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After announcing the statewide public health initiative “Kansas Beats the Virus” (#KSBeatsTheVirus) on Nov. 18, the Kansas Leadership Center put forth the goal to activate and connect local leadership to combat the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; The Leadership Reno County organization was one of the many statewide network of partners who fulfilled the role of Facilitator, which resulted in more than 1,000 meetings across Kansas.

The 13-week project kicks off on Monday, Jan. 25, and will reward members of the public who are “caught” wearing a mask at one of the participating host businesses. If you are “caught,” you will be given a Caught in the Act sticker and can then enter online for a weekly gift card drawing from one of the host businesses. A $3,000 grant was awarded by the Kansas Leadership Center to fund this initiative.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The host businesses participating are:&nbsp; Airport Steakhouse, Apron Strings, Brown’s Shoe Fit, Cosmosphere, Heartland Credit Union, Hedrick Exotic Animal Farm, Holly’s Sweet Treats, Hutchinson Zoo, Metropolitan Coffee, Reno County Museum, Scuttlebutt’s at The Clayworks, Strataca and The Wool Market and DIY School.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An added benefit of this initiative is that all of the $3,000 grant monies will be spent in the local Reno County economy to help small businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611346740596.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Visit Hutch Tourism Coalition announced Friday the initiative called Caught in the Act Hutch with its mission to encourage mask wearing in Reno County.&nbsp;&nbsp;After announcing the statewide public health initiative “Kansas Beats the Virus” (#KSBeatsTheVirus) on Nov. 18, the Kansas Leadership Center put forth the goal to activate and connect local leadership to combat the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; The Leadership Reno County organization was one of the many statewide network of partners who fulfilled the role of Facilitator, which resulted in more than 1,000 meetings across Kansas.The 13-week project kicks off on Monday, Jan. 25, and will reward members of the public who are “caught” wearing a mask at one of the participating host businesses. If you are “caught,” you will be given a Caught in the Act sticker and can then enter online for a weekly gift card drawing from one of the host businesses. A $3,000 grant was awarded by the Kansas Leadership Center to fund this initiative.&nbsp;&nbsp;The host businesses participating are:&nbsp; Airport Steakhouse, Apron Strings, Brown’s Shoe Fit, Cosmosphere, Heartland Credit Union, Hedrick Exotic Animal Farm, Holly’s Sweet Treats, Hutchinson Zoo, Metropolitan Coffee, Reno County Museum, Scuttlebutt’s at The Clayworks, Strataca and The Wool Market and DIY School.&nbsp;&nbsp;An added benefit of this initiative is that all of the $3,000 grant monies will be spent in the local Reno County economy to help small businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chamber kicks off Caught in the Act promotion Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 456 as of Friday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 27 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.

Out of 7,325 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 432 cases in the community at large. 6,758 people have recovered thus far.

Fifteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-nine total have been hospitalized. Ninety-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.31%. 36.06% of the population has been tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 456 as of Friday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 111.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 27 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 72 active cases. Forty-four people within those clusters have died. There are 40 active clusters in the county.Out of 7,325 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 432 cases in the community at large. 6,758 people have recovered thus far.Fifteen Reno County residents are in the hospital. According to the dashboard, three hundred thirty-nine total have been hospitalized. Ninety-seven have been admitted to the ICU and 31 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 27.24%, with the overall positive test rate at 32.31%. 36.06% of the population has been tested.There are still two free public testing sites, one in the Cosmosphere parking lot in Hutchinson and one at Simply Good Overstocks parking lot in South Hutchinson. They are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Case count at 456, with 432 in community as of Friday afternoon, deaths remain at 111

Midwest Energy, Inc., Kansas’ largest electric and natural gas cooperative, is seeking a Network/Telecommunications Administrator at its Hays office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Network/Telecommunications Administrator is to design, implement, maintain, and monitor the LAN/WAN/VPN Network and to provide an efficient and cost-effective telecommunications system.&nbsp; The position is responsible for implementing and maintaining all IP based telecommunication for the various corporate data and telephony systems.&nbsp; The administrator will work to obtain the highest level of network performance, consistent uptime and adhere to best practice network and telecommunication standards while working with the IT Security Administrator to guard against cyber-attacks or breaches.&nbsp;

Bachelor’s degree in an IT field of networking operating systems, computer science, data processing or related field preferred, or combination of work experience and education will be considered.&nbsp; Valid Kansas Driver’s license required.&nbsp;

For more information on job requirements and responsibilities, and to submit an application, visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>.&nbsp; Interested candidates should submit a resume with an application for employment to Midwest Energy Recruitment Services: recruitment@mwenergy.com.&nbsp; The application deadline is Feb. 3, 2021.&nbsp;

Midwest Energy, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest Energy, Inc., Kansas’ largest electric and natural gas cooperative, is seeking a Network/Telecommunications Administrator at its Hays office.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Network/Telecommunications Administrator is to design, implement, maintain, and monitor the LAN/WAN/VPN Network and to provide an efficient and cost-effective telecommunications system.&nbsp; The position is responsible for implementing and maintaining all IP based telecommunication for the various corporate data and telephony systems.&nbsp; The administrator will work to obtain the highest level of network performance, consistent uptime and adhere to best practice network and telecommunication standards while working with the IT Security Administrator to guard against cyber-attacks or breaches.&nbsp;Bachelor’s degree in an IT field of networking operating systems, computer science, data processing or related field preferred, or combination of work experience and education will be considered.&nbsp; Valid Kansas Driver’s license required.&nbsp;For more information on job requirements and responsibilities, and to submit an application, visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>.&nbsp; Interested candidates should submit a resume with an application for employment to Midwest Energy Recruitment Services: recruitment@mwenergy.com.&nbsp; The application deadline is Feb. 3, 2021.&nbsp;Midwest Energy, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.

Man taken to hospital after stabbing

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A Hutchinson man is in custody on suspicion of pulling a gun on an
officer who was investigating a single vehicle accident.

Police say
45-year-old James Walker was taken into custody after surrendering to law
enforcement without incident.

Police
report that at around 9:18 p.m. Thursday they were dispatched to a single vehicle accident
and found a pickup laying on its side in the ditch. The vehicle was unoccupied.
Law enforcement went to Walker's residence at the Creeekside Village trailer
park and made several attempts to contact Walker.

As an
officer was standing in front of the trailer the door opened and the officer noticed
the muzzle of a gun pointing outside. The officer took cover and after several
verbal commands got Walker to surrender.

Walker is
being held on suspicion of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and
leaving the scene of an accident. His bond has been set at $7,750.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611331993088.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A Hutchinson man is in custody on suspicion of pulling a gun on an
officer who was investigating a single vehicle accident.Police say
45-year-old James Walker was taken into custody after surrendering to law
enforcement without incident.Police
report that at around 9:18 p.m. Thursday they were dispatched to a single vehicle accident
and found a pickup laying on its side in the ditch. The vehicle was unoccupied.
Law enforcement went to Walker's residence at the Creeekside Village trailer
park and made several attempts to contact Walker.As an
officer was standing in front of the trailer the door opened and the officer noticed
the muzzle of a gun pointing outside. The officer took cover and after several
verbal commands got Walker to surrender.Walker is
being held on suspicion of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and
leaving the scene of an accident. His bond has been set at $7,750.

Hutchinson man jailed for pointing gun at HPD officer


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As the Kansas House debates a measure to change abortion policy through a constitutional amendment, when to put that amendment on the ballot was a point of contention.

"The amendment as proposed, will place the question on the ballot in the August primary of 2022," State Representative Jason Probst said. "I think there's a number of us who believe that if you're going to change the constitution, that should happen at a time when most voters come out. That is decidedly at the November general election."

Last time this amendment was proposed in 2020, the question of when peeled off enough moderate Republican votes to fall short of the two-thirds majorities needed to put the question before the voters. The House Majority Leader pulled a procedural maneuver to put the amendment at the top of the agenda Friday morning. 

"We always see a bigger turnout by large, large margins in November," Probst said. "During U.S. Senate races and Presidential races, there's always better turnout."

Kansas will have a U.S. Senate race on the ballot in 2022, but it remains to be seen if there will be a Republican primary as there was in 2020, or if the only competition will be in the general election. Probst offered an amendment to change the date of the vote on the House floor and that amendment failed on a 40-84 vote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600960659626.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As the Kansas House debates a measure to change abortion policy through a constitutional amendment, when to put that amendment on the ballot was a point of contention."The amendment as proposed, will place the question on the ballot in the August primary of 2022," State Representative Jason Probst said. "I think there's a number of us who believe that if you're going to change the constitution, that should happen at a time when most voters come out. That is decidedly at the November general election."Last time this amendment was proposed in 2020, the question of when peeled off enough moderate Republican votes to fall short of the two-thirds majorities needed to put the question before the voters. The House Majority Leader pulled a procedural maneuver to put the amendment at the top of the agenda Friday morning. "We always see a bigger turnout by large, large margins in November," Probst said. "During U.S. Senate races and Presidential races, there's always better turnout."Kansas will have a U.S. Senate race on the ballot in 2022, but it remains to be seen if there will be a Republican primary as there was in 2020, or if the only competition will be in the general election. Probst offered an amendment to change the date of the vote on the House floor and that amendment failed on a 40-84 vote.

Probst: Date of potential constitutional amendment vote change motion fails


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System pulmonologist. Dr. Mohammed Al-Halawani was the lead author on an academic paper regarding treatment of sleep apnea in veterans with PTSD who could not tolerate the use of a CPAP machine.

"With sleep apnea, as we fall asleep, the muscles relax and that includes the muscles of the airway and the tongue," Dr. Al-Halawani said. "When they relax, they fall back and block the airway. If the blockage is partial, you snore. If the blockage is complete, you have a breathing pause, or an apnea."

The innovation was to use a dental appliance or Mandibular Advancement Device instead of a CPAP to keep the muscles out of the way during sleep.

"It's a custom fitted device," Dr. Al-Halawani said. "You go to a dentist who is certified in dental sleep medicine and has experience in these devices. They custom fabricate the device for you. The device protrudes your lower jaw, so the jaw is protruded forward and it pulls with it the tongue and the neck tissue behind it, or the pharynx tissue behind it and that prevents collapse at night."

The paper, that Al-Halawani collaborated with his colleagues from Yale on, was entitled <a href="https://aadsm.org/journal/original_article_2_issue_81.php?fbclid=IwAR1tMim4SaYZSdOKnHzWM-XO7WQipJ3jClbMpu0SVMTkl6mJjN-MEmnb-AY">Acceptance and Efficacy of Mandibular Advancement Device Treatment in Military Veterans With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Effect on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and published in the Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine.</a>

"The success rate in our study was about 65%," Dr. Al-Halawani said. "The number may sound low, but these are 65% of people who would be on no treatment otherwise."

Of 75 subjects who met initial inclusion criteria, 49 completed the study protocol. Twenty one of those said they also had PTSD and 11 of those said those symptoms improved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598021444893.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System pulmonologist. Dr. Mohammed Al-Halawani was the lead author on an academic paper regarding treatment of sleep apnea in veterans with PTSD who could not tolerate the use of a CPAP machine."With sleep apnea, as we fall asleep, the muscles relax and that includes the muscles of the airway and the tongue," Dr. Al-Halawani said. "When they relax, they fall back and block the airway. If the blockage is partial, you snore. If the blockage is complete, you have a breathing pause, or an apnea."The innovation was to use a dental appliance or Mandibular Advancement Device instead of a CPAP to keep the muscles out of the way during sleep."It's a custom fitted device," Dr. Al-Halawani said. "You go to a dentist who is certified in dental sleep medicine and has experience in these devices. They custom fabricate the device for you. The device protrudes your lower jaw, so the jaw is protruded forward and it pulls with it the tongue and the neck tissue behind it, or the pharynx tissue behind it and that prevents collapse at night."The paper, that Al-Halawani collaborated with his colleagues from Yale on, was entitled <a href="https://aadsm.org/journal/original_article_2_issue_81.php?fbclid=IwAR1tMim4SaYZSdOKnHzWM-XO7WQipJ3jClbMpu0SVMTkl6mJjN-MEmnb-AY">Acceptance and Efficacy of Mandibular Advancement Device Treatment in Military Veterans With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Effect on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and published in the Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine.</a>"The success rate in our study was about 65%," Dr. Al-Halawani said. "The number may sound low, but these are 65% of people who would be on no treatment otherwise."Of 75 subjects who met initial inclusion criteria, 49 completed the study protocol. Twenty one of those said they also had PTSD and 11 of those said those symptoms improved.

Local