HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The policy has been in place since August 4th but the Hutchinson USD 308 School Board will make the district COVID policy for the school year official on Monday.

The Board will take action on the plans for dealing with the pandemic this year. Superintendent Mike Folks said in a message to 308 patrons that the plan is to do everything possible to keep students in the classrooms this year.

Also Monday the board will go over several agency contracts to start the school year and look over the handbooks for teachers and staff.

Adult meal prices will be looked over as well. Students will eat for free for this school year but adult meal prices will be $2.50 for breakfast and $4.50 for lunch.&nbsp;

Two executive sessions are also on the agenda. One is for a personnel matter and the other is to go over the latest negotiations between the district and the teachers union. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for August 11.

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

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The policy has been in place since August 4th but the Hutchinson USD 308 School Board will make the district COVID policy for the school year official on Monday.The Board will take action on the plans for dealing with the pandemic this year. Superintendent Mike Folks said in a message to 308 patrons that the plan is to do everything possible to keep students in the classrooms this year.Also Monday the board will go over several agency contracts to start the school year and look over the handbooks for teachers and staff.Adult meal prices will be looked over as well. Students will eat for free for this school year but adult meal prices will be $2.50 for breakfast and $4.50 for lunch.&nbsp;Two executive sessions are also on the agenda. One is for a personnel matter and the other is to go over the latest negotiations between the district and the teachers union. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for August 11.Monday's USD 308 Board of Education meeting is at 6 p.m at the Career and Technical Education Academy at 800 15th Circle.<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;

USD 308 School Board meets Monday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The regularly scheduled Hutchinson Planning Commission meeting for Tuesday, August 10, 2021 has been cancelled due to lack of agenda items.

The next scheduled meeting will be held Tuesday, August 24, 2021 at 5:30 p.m.

If you have any questions, you may contact the Planning Department at (620) 259-4132.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606778412552.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The regularly scheduled Hutchinson Planning Commission meeting for Tuesday, August 10, 2021 has been cancelled due to lack of agenda items.The next scheduled meeting will be held Tuesday, August 24, 2021 at 5:30 p.m.If you have any questions, you may contact the Planning Department at (620) 259-4132.

Planning commission meeting cancelled for Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With the increased presence of the Delta variant of COVID-19 in Kansas, local health departments, providers, and community groups are continuing to hold free COVID-19 vaccine and testing clinics. 

One of those clinics will be Wednesday, August 11 at the Reno County Food Pantry from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 700 North Walnut. Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines will be offered.

Free testing is available to everyone in Kansas, regardless of vaccination status and even if you have been tested before.  According to the CDC, the Delta variant is twice as infectious as the B.117 variant which was previously the dominant strain.

It’s essential for Kansans to stay safe by continuing to social distance and wear masks while around unvaccinated people, and get tested if you have symptoms or have possibly been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With the increased presence of the Delta variant of COVID-19 in Kansas, local health departments, providers, and community groups are continuing to hold free COVID-19 vaccine and testing clinics. One of those clinics will be Wednesday, August 11 at the Reno County Food Pantry from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 700 North Walnut. Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines will be offered.Free testing is available to everyone in Kansas, regardless of vaccination status and even if you have been tested before. According to the CDC, the Delta variant is twice as infectious as the B.117 variant which was previously the dominant strain.It’s essential for Kansans to stay safe by continuing to social distance and wear masks while around unvaccinated people, and get tested if you have symptoms or have possibly been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

Vaccine clinic at Food Pantry August 11

RICE COUNTY — 
Part of 16th Road on the northeast side of Sterling -- between Avenue U and Avenue V -- will be closed during the day for the next four weeks.

That section of 16th will be closed during that period from about 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and possibly some Saturdays.

The closure is needed for continued construction on the Rice County portion of the K-14 realignment.

The Kansas Department of Transportation realignment project started this spring. This a 15-mile, $81.7 million realignment of K-14. The work stretches from Hutchinson, to Nickerson, to Sterling. The project is expected to be completed by June 16, 2023. Bob Bergkamp Construction Co. Inc., of Wichita, is the primary contractor.

During the work, traffic will be able to continue to use the existing K-14/96 alignment in the two counties.

The Rice County portion of the realignment will be from the Reno/Rice county line to just north of the K-96/Avenue T junction. The length is about 8 miles.

The Reno County portion of the realignment will be from about 4.5 miles southeast of Nickerson northwest to the Reno/Rice county line. The length is a little over 7 miles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628250393151.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RICE COUNTY — 
Part of 16th Road on the northeast side of Sterling -- between Avenue U and Avenue V -- will be closed during the day for the next four weeks.That section of 16th will be closed during that period from about 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and possibly some Saturdays.The closure is needed for continued construction on the Rice County portion of the K-14 realignment.The Kansas Department of Transportation realignment project started this spring. This a 15-mile, $81.7 million realignment of K-14. The work stretches from Hutchinson, to Nickerson, to Sterling. The project is expected to be completed by June 16, 2023. Bob Bergkamp Construction Co. Inc., of Wichita, is the primary contractor.During the work, traffic will be able to continue to use the existing K-14/96 alignment in the two counties.The Rice County portion of the realignment will be from the Reno/Rice county line to just north of the K-96/Avenue T junction. The length is about 8 miles.The Reno County portion of the realignment will be from about 4.5 miles southeast of Nickerson northwest to the Reno/Rice county line. The length is a little over 7 miles.

Part of 16th Road at Sterling closing during daytime for K-14 job


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Active COVID-19 cases increased again this week and are currently at 125 in Reno County as of Thursday. Five Reno County individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19. 

Nationally, COVID-19 cases are doubling every three weeks. Using these projections, we could have over 250 active cases by September 1. COVID-19 is a preventable disease, so the Health Department is encouraging anyone who is eligible to get the vaccine. 

Reno County has 27% of residents over the age of 65 NOT fully vaccinated. This is an extremely high-risk group. Over 60% of the total Reno County population has not been fully vaccinated.

“Getting the vaccine is the best thing we can do to keep our community safe,” stated Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst. “Get the vaccine, get tested if you’re not feeling well, and support our health care workers.”

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, and most Kansas hospitals, are seeing increased admissions from other health conditions such as stroke, hypertension, and diabetes due to residents not seeking medical attention during the pandemic last year. There is also a nurse shortage, which in turn limits the hospital capacity. Case totals along with data from Hutchinson Regional Medical Center are updated Monday through Friday on the Dashboard at <a href="http://www.renogov.org">www.renogov.org</a>.

If you are feeling ill, get tested through your medical provider or at the free community testing site. Visit gogettested.com for locations and scheduling information. In the event you test positive, the Reno County Medical Collaborative is working together on a process to administer monoclonal antibodies to lessen the severity and duration of COVID-19 and prevent hospitalization.

Prevention is the key to good health. Maintain appropriate weight, work with your primary care provider to treat or prevent diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic diseases, and get vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccinations are available for anyone over the age of 12, and free to any resident, regardless of citizen status or insurance. Visit <a href="https://vaccinefinder.org/">https://vaccinefinder.org/</a> for a list of local options and availability. For a free ride to one of the vaccine sites, call RCAT at 620-694-2913.

The Health Department is accepting walk-ins for COVID-19 vaccinations during their normal operating hours. They will also be holding a Saturday vaccination clinic on August 14 from 8 am to noon. For more information, call 620-694-2900.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Active COVID-19 cases increased again this week and are currently at 125 in Reno County as of Thursday. Five Reno County individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19. Nationally, COVID-19 cases are doubling every three weeks. Using these projections, we could have over 250 active cases by September 1. COVID-19 is a preventable disease, so the Health Department is encouraging anyone who is eligible to get the vaccine. Reno County has 27% of residents over the age of 65 NOT fully vaccinated. This is an extremely high-risk group. Over 60% of the total Reno County population has not been fully vaccinated.“Getting the vaccine is the best thing we can do to keep our community safe,” stated Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst. “Get the vaccine, get tested if you’re not feeling well, and support our health care workers.”Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, and most Kansas hospitals, are seeing increased admissions from other health conditions such as stroke, hypertension, and diabetes due to residents not seeking medical attention during the pandemic last year. There is also a nurse shortage, which in turn limits the hospital capacity. Case totals along with data from Hutchinson Regional Medical Center are updated Monday through Friday on the Dashboard at <a href="http://www.renogov.org">www.renogov.org</a>.If you are feeling ill, get tested through your medical provider or at the free community testing site. Visit gogettested.com for locations and scheduling information. In the event you test positive, the Reno County Medical Collaborative is working together on a process to administer monoclonal antibodies to lessen the severity and duration of COVID-19 and prevent hospitalization.Prevention is the key to good health. Maintain appropriate weight, work with your primary care provider to treat or prevent diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic diseases, and get vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccinations are available for anyone over the age of 12, and free to any resident, regardless of citizen status or insurance. Visit <a href="https://vaccinefinder.org/">https://vaccinefinder.org/</a> for a list of local options and availability. For a free ride to one of the vaccine sites, call RCAT at 620-694-2913.The Health Department is accepting walk-ins for COVID-19 vaccinations during their normal operating hours. They will also be holding a Saturday vaccination clinic on August 14 from 8 am to noon. For more information, call 620-694-2900.

COVID case count at 125 as of Thursday, according to county stats

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair is now a little over a month away. It is also the first week for new GM Bryan Schulz.&nbsp;

“The first week has been meeting a lot of people,” Schulz said. “Dr. Berger, with his connections, has been able to take me out into the community.”&nbsp;

That includes agencies he will have to work with and some civic clubs too.

“We’ve talked to the police chief and fire chief and we’ve got quite a few meetings scheduled,” Schulz said. “We’ve done some presentations at some service clubs. That’s my big thing, to just get to know the community.”

Schulz says that he will be behind the scenes for this year's fair and will help where needed and also ask a lot of questions as the fair approaches.

“I’m very blessed with a great team that knows what is going on in their departments. And like I told them when I first met with them, I will not come in and try to change things that you have spent the last year putting together,” Schulz said. “What I will do is sit back and I will watch, and if you’ve got questions I will try to provide answers, but I’m going to ask you a lot of questions.”

Schulz says after the fair he will sit down with the staff and look over things and make an assessment of the fairs past and future.

“We'll have a post fair meeting with all of our staff and team and just kind of evaluate how things went,” Schulz said. “and if there’s a need, we can maybe change up a few things, tweak a few things, but from what I’m seeing the team has done a phenomenal job of putting things together.”

The first fair for Schulz kicks off September 10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626269696039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas State Fair is now a little over a month away. It is also the first week for new GM Bryan Schulz.&nbsp;“The first week has been meeting a lot of people,” Schulz said. “Dr. Berger, with his connections, has been able to take me out into the community.”&nbsp;That includes agencies he will have to work with and some civic clubs too.“We’ve talked to the police chief and fire chief and we’ve got quite a few meetings scheduled,” Schulz said. “We’ve done some presentations at some service clubs. That’s my big thing, to just get to know the community.”Schulz says that he will be behind the scenes for this year's fair and will help where needed and also ask a lot of questions as the fair approaches.“I’m very blessed with a great team that knows what is going on in their departments. And like I told them when I first met with them, I will not come in and try to change things that you have spent the last year putting together,” Schulz said. “What I will do is sit back and I will watch, and if you’ve got questions I will try to provide answers, but I’m going to ask you a lot of questions.”Schulz says after the fair he will sit down with the staff and look over things and make an assessment of the fairs past and future.“We'll have a post fair meeting with all of our staff and team and just kind of evaluate how things went,” Schulz said. “and if there’s a need, we can maybe change up a few things, tweak a few things, but from what I’m seeing the team has done a phenomenal job of putting things together.”The first fair for Schulz kicks off September 10.<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;

Schulz ready to take in his first fair as GM

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Another group of Hutchinson Fire Department personnel are on their way to Idaho to assist in the wildfire efforts there.&nbsp;

Captains Craig Walle and Justin Williams, along with firefighter Matt Young and Kansas Forest Service Employee Brice Haverkamp have arrived in Spokane Washington and will get their first assignments on Wednesday. They are replacing Firefighters Brent Fisher, Cole Ingrham, Jacob Ice and Kyle Graves who left July 15th to help with the fire.

Thursday morning Inghram talked about their experience in Idaho and the role they played.

“What we could offer to them was eyes in the sky so we were able to get up on a peak on a lookout tower...and look down on the fire behavior,” Inghram said. “We watched the weather, gave them observations and the kind of trends on what the fire had been doing.”&nbsp;

While most of the time was spent relaying information or doing spot fire containment they did have to deal with a medical issue with a support group.

“One of their supporting staff didn’t feel well,” Inghram said.&nbsp;

And the help did not come quickly for the patient.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“Out there everything moves a lot slower,” Inghram said. “It's hard to get aircraft or ambulances to an area fast enough to get the patient out.”

A helicopter was called in and the fire crew took time to clear out trees to provide a landing area for the air ambulance.

While the terrain was certainly different that what the Hutchinson Fire Department normally faces, Inghram says they can take what they experience in Idaho and bring it here to Reno County. And it starts with planning ahead.

“That situation or emergency starts on the days we don’t have that situation,” Inghram said. “It’s people sitting at a table talking amongst one another, be it the air medics, be it the fire department, be it the hospitals. So getting a game plan&nbsp; set before the situation happens.”

All three firefighters said they met a lot of unique people that they will remember from now on and noted that fighting a fire in the mountains was a much slower more deliberate task that similar situations Back in Hutchinson.

At last report, the Tumbledown fire has been rolled into what is now called the Stateline Complex fire that consists of 12 individual fires covering 11,350 Acres.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628194880436.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Another group of Hutchinson Fire Department personnel are on their way to Idaho to assist in the wildfire efforts there.&nbsp;Captains Craig Walle and Justin Williams, along with firefighter Matt Young and Kansas Forest Service Employee Brice Haverkamp have arrived in Spokane Washington and will get their first assignments on Wednesday. They are replacing Firefighters Brent Fisher, Cole Ingrham, Jacob Ice and Kyle Graves who left July 15th to help with the fire.Thursday morning Inghram talked about their experience in Idaho and the role they played.“What we could offer to them was eyes in the sky so we were able to get up on a peak on a lookout tower...and look down on the fire behavior,” Inghram said. “We watched the weather, gave them observations and the kind of trends on what the fire had been doing.”&nbsp;While most of the time was spent relaying information or doing spot fire containment they did have to deal with a medical issue with a support group.“One of their supporting staff didn’t feel well,” Inghram said.&nbsp;And the help did not come quickly for the patient.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Out there everything moves a lot slower,” Inghram said. “It's hard to get aircraft or ambulances to an area fast enough to get the patient out.”A helicopter was called in and the fire crew took time to clear out trees to provide a landing area for the air ambulance.While the terrain was certainly different that what the Hutchinson Fire Department normally faces, Inghram says they can take what they experience in Idaho and bring it here to Reno County. And it starts with planning ahead.“That situation or emergency starts on the days we don’t have that situation,” Inghram said. “It’s people sitting at a table talking amongst one another, be it the air medics, be it the fire department, be it the hospitals. So getting a game plan&nbsp; set before the situation happens.”All three firefighters said they met a lot of unique people that they will remember from now on and noted that fighting a fire in the mountains was a much slower more deliberate task that similar situations Back in Hutchinson.At last report, the Tumbledown fire has been rolled into what is now called the Stateline Complex fire that consists of 12 individual fires covering 11,350 Acres.&nbsp;<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;

Fire fighters talk about their trip to Idaho

MCPHERSON COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before noon Thursday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chevy Silverado driven by Shelby L. Steenson,&nbsp; 79, Mentor, was northbound on Interstate 135 at Limestone Road.

The pickup swerved to the right, hit a concrete bridge rail,&nbsp; struck the guardrail and swerved into the east ditch.

EMS transported&nbsp;Steenson to the hospital in McPherson. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606580369257.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before noon Thursday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Chevy Silverado driven by Shelby L. Steenson,&nbsp; 79, Mentor, was northbound on Interstate 135 at Limestone Road.The pickup swerved to the right, hit a concrete bridge rail,&nbsp; struck the guardrail and swerved into the east ditch.EMS transported&nbsp;Steenson to the hospital in McPherson. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after violent pickup crash

State Senator Dr. Mark Steffen is a former Reno County Commissioner.

It was about the second, maybe third, day of the Covid virus debacle that I realized the politics behind the response. And, it continues. The Biden Administration is at war with Florida and Texas where Republican Governors place individual rights and a fact based understanding of the covid virus before inflated fear campaigns. A wide open southern border betrays the Democrat’s desire to fill the country with their kind of voters of which many are contagious with the Covid-19 virus. While Cuban refugees who are passionate for democracy remain ignored. More liberals spread throughout our nation are more important than containing the spread of their dreaded virus. Pure politics!

At the very core is the shot. It’s not a vaccine. It’s a medical procedure. The liberals brag and brag as to its efficacy. Yet, not a peep as to its pitfalls and they are plentiful. The CDC has a system to report vaccine complications. Its acronym is VAERS. Its on the CDC website. Do not fall for the liberal mainstream talking points. More deaths and complications are associated with this current shot than all other vaccinations in the several decade history of VAERS. Do the research!

A recent study by the renowned Cleveland Clinic of 50,000 people proved the robust nature of natural immunity. The shot just adds risks for complications. It is an affront to science to deny the worth of naturally acquired immunity. Do the research!

Recent studies out of the United Kingdom and Israel show a much different rate of infection after vaccination versus that reported by our overly enthusiastic Health Department. They to are guilty of fanning the flames of fear rather than talking to us in an adult manner. Fanning flames with misleading data points goes beyond enthusiasm and becomes blatantly off putting. Do the research!

Injecting our children with this mRNA shot is beyond bizarre. A report on the CDC website outlining their thought processes on recommending the shot clearly defines that vaccinated children experienced “more severe complications” than unvaccinated children. Never in the history of mankind has a society knowingly sacrificed children for the alleged benefit of adults. Please do your research!

It’s quite clear that the India (delta) variant is more contagious and correspondingly less deadly than the original Covid-19 virus. Early treatment remains key. Ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine are proven in multiple studies to be effective in preventing hospitalization and death. Yet, liberal academic medicine continues to shut down their use while promoting a brand new, unproven, hospital based IV infusion that is expensive and in short supply. This, to a medical doctor such as myself, is unforgiveable if not criminal. I won’t forgive my colleagues for this. Do the research.

I will leave the idiocy of masks for another time. And, if you want the shot, then by all means please get it. Just don’t be so condescending as to tell me what to do. Remember this, elected officials that feel a stronger need to “go along to get along” rather than advance the truth, are not leaders. They are politicians. My respect they do not gain.

For those of you intrigued enough to continue down this road of edification, look no further than <a href="https://rccft.org/">RCCFT.org</a> for all the studies referred to above.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611761226060.jpeg" alt="Mark Steffen Senate Photo" />
 <figcaption>Mark Steffen Senate Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>State Senator Dr. Mark Steffen is a former Reno County Commissioner.It was about the second, maybe third, day of the Covid virus debacle that I realized the politics behind the response. And, it continues. The Biden Administration is at war with Florida and Texas where Republican Governors place individual rights and a fact based understanding of the covid virus before inflated fear campaigns. A wide open southern border betrays the Democrat’s desire to fill the country with their kind of voters of which many are contagious with the Covid-19 virus. While Cuban refugees who are passionate for democracy remain ignored. More liberals spread throughout our nation are more important than containing the spread of their dreaded virus. Pure politics!At the very core is the shot. It’s not a vaccine. It’s a medical procedure. The liberals brag and brag as to its efficacy. Yet, not a peep as to its pitfalls and they are plentiful. The CDC has a system to report vaccine complications. Its acronym is VAERS. Its on the CDC website. Do not fall for the liberal mainstream talking points. More deaths and complications are associated with this current shot than all other vaccinations in the several decade history of VAERS. Do the research!A recent study by the renowned Cleveland Clinic of 50,000 people proved the robust nature of natural immunity. The shot just adds risks for complications. It is an affront to science to deny the worth of naturally acquired immunity. Do the research!Recent studies out of the United Kingdom and Israel show a much different rate of infection after vaccination versus that reported by our overly enthusiastic Health Department. They to are guilty of fanning the flames of fear rather than talking to us in an adult manner. Fanning flames with misleading data points goes beyond enthusiasm and becomes blatantly off putting. Do the research!Injecting our children with this mRNA shot is beyond bizarre. A report on the CDC website outlining their thought processes on recommending the shot clearly defines that vaccinated children experienced “more severe complications” than unvaccinated children. Never in the history of mankind has a society knowingly sacrificed children for the alleged benefit of adults. Please do your research!It’s quite clear that the India (delta) variant is more contagious and correspondingly less deadly than the original Covid-19 virus. Early treatment remains key. Ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine are proven in multiple studies to be effective in preventing hospitalization and death. Yet, liberal academic medicine continues to shut down their use while promoting a brand new, unproven, hospital based IV infusion that is expensive and in short supply. This, to a medical doctor such as myself, is unforgiveable if not criminal. I won’t forgive my colleagues for this. Do the research.I will leave the idiocy of masks for another time. And, if you want the shot, then by all means please get it. Just don’t be so condescending as to tell me what to do. Remember this, elected officials that feel a stronger need to “go along to get along” rather than advance the truth, are not leaders. They are politicians. My respect they do not gain.For those of you intrigued enough to continue down this road of edification, look no further than <a href="https://rccft.org/">RCCFT.org</a> for all the studies referred to above.

OPINION: State Senator responds to County Commissioner's column


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The annual Hutchinson Emancipation Day events are this weekend.

"We've got a lot of fine activities coming through our parade this Saturday," said Shontina Tipton, parade chair. "We have got drill teams coming from Florida, Kansas City, Wichita and Salina. I'm looking forward to making sure that we're going to have a fantastic time this Saturday at the parade."

Long-time chair Dellis Neal is pleased to collaborate with HutchCC once again this year.

Hutch Juco has stepped up," Neal said. "Dr. Carter File has just been awesome in helping us over the years since we have had it at Hutch Juco. I know a lot of people really miss it being at the park, but there's lots of reasons why we don't have it at the park anymore."

Neal said those with questions can contact any committee member and she'd like to see a good turnout this year.

"It's been a rough last couple of years," Neal said. "To see people come together, have a good time and not worry about race or anything like that. That's what makes it special for me and it's been that way since I've been on the committee." 

3-point shootout between Ave. B and Ave. A on Washington 6:00 p.m.

Youth event-16 and younger Hutch Putt 1500 N. Lorraine   7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Concert in Ave. A Park with Jazz vocalist Glenda Hill 	 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Parade from B and Main to 12th and Main 		       10 a.m.

Parade Marshal Glenda Hill speaks at Stringer Fine Arts Center 11 a.m.

Picnic in Stringer Fine Arts Center Gallery Theater 	       Noon to 3 p.m.

Domino &amp; Bid Whist Tournament-Kansas State Fairgrounds		4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Old School Jam at Kansas State Fairgrounds 		        9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Gospel Concert-Recital Hall-Stringer Fine Arts Center 3 p.m.

Ice Cream &amp; Lady Bites Social-Gallery Theater

For more information, contact Tipton at (405) 738-8955 or Neal at (620) 474-2213.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628182146305.jpeg" alt="EDay2021.jpg" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The annual Hutchinson Emancipation Day events are this weekend."We've got a lot of fine activities coming through our parade this Saturday," said Shontina Tipton, parade chair. "We have got drill teams coming from Florida, Kansas City, Wichita and Salina. I'm looking forward to making sure that we're going to have a fantastic time this Saturday at the parade."Long-time chair Dellis Neal is pleased to collaborate with HutchCC once again this year.Hutch Juco has stepped up," Neal said. "Dr. Carter File has just been awesome in helping us over the years since we have had it at Hutch Juco. I know a lot of people really miss it being at the park, but there's lots of reasons why we don't have it at the park anymore."Neal said those with questions can contact any committee member and she'd like to see a good turnout this year."It's been a rough last couple of years," Neal said. "To see people come together, have a good time and not worry about race or anything like that. That's what makes it special for me and it's been that way since I've been on the committee." The schedule of events is below:Friday, August 63-point shootout between Ave. B and Ave. A on Washington 6:00 p.m.Youth event-16 and younger Hutch Putt 1500 N. Lorraine 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Concert in Ave. A Park with Jazz vocalist Glenda Hill 	 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.Saturday, August 7Parade from B and Main to 12th and Main 		 10 a.m.Parade Marshal Glenda Hill speaks at Stringer Fine Arts Center 11 a.m.Picnic in Stringer Fine Arts Center Gallery Theater 	 Noon to 3 p.m.Domino &amp; Bid Whist Tournament-Kansas State Fairgrounds		4 p.m. to 8 p.m.Old School Jam at Kansas State Fairgrounds 		 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.Sunday, August 8Gospel Concert-Recital Hall-Stringer Fine Arts Center 3 p.m.Ice Cream &amp; Lady Bites Social-Gallery TheaterFor more information, contact Tipton at (405) 738-8955 or Neal at (620) 474-2213.

Emancipation Day events this weekend in Hutchinson

LARNED, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested on attempted murder charges in Pawnee County.&nbsp;

Pawnee County District Attorney Douglas McNett says 52-year-old Bradley W. Hulse was in Pawnee County District Court for his first appearance.

The charges stem from alleged shots fired at a vehicle during the early morning hours of July 31 in Larned. No one was injured in the incident. Hulse was arrested later that morning without incident in McPherson County by the Kansas Highway Patrol.

At the first appearance Hulse was advised of the charges and the possible penalties.&nbsp; If convicted, Hulse could spend as much as 54-years in prison.

A Preliminary Hearing has been scheduled for August 18. Hulse is being held on a $150,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628176676215.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LARNED, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested on attempted murder charges in Pawnee County.&nbsp;Pawnee County District Attorney Douglas McNett says 52-year-old Bradley W. Hulse was in Pawnee County District Court for his first appearance.The charges stem from alleged shots fired at a vehicle during the early morning hours of July 31 in Larned. No one was injured in the incident. Hulse was arrested later that morning without incident in McPherson County by the Kansas Highway Patrol.At the first appearance Hulse was advised of the charges and the possible penalties.&nbsp; If convicted, Hulse could spend as much as 54-years in prison.A Preliminary Hearing has been scheduled for August 18. Hulse is being held on a $150,000 bond.<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;

Hutchinson man arrested in Pawnee Co. 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Thursday that Apple Lane will be closed to all traffic between 17th and 30th Avenues starting Friday.&nbsp;

Work crews will be placing the final layer of asphalt down. The street will be open to local traffic only at the end of the work day. Those who need to visit Apple Lane Animal Hospital will have access off of 30th.

If all goes as planned the road will open again on Monday, August 9. If you need any information on this or any other road or street project contact Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621458704710.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Thursday that Apple Lane will be closed to all traffic between 17th and 30th Avenues starting Friday.&nbsp;Work crews will be placing the final layer of asphalt down. The street will be open to local traffic only at the end of the work day. Those who need to visit Apple Lane Animal Hospital will have access off of 30th.If all goes as planned the road will open again on Monday, August 9. If you need any information on this or any other road or street project contact Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.<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;

Apple Lane will close over the weekend to finish road work


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Chief Operating Officer for Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Wes Hoyt is concerned about the number of hospitalizations they are seeing of late from COVID-19.

"We're looking at reopening a unit, the only problem is, it's probably going to be the COVID unit again, just because of what we're seeing as an uptick here recently," Hoyt said. "As of 11 p.m. last night, because I haven't gotten the 7 a.m. report yet, we had eight patients in the hospital that were COVID positive."

"According to our license, we have 190 beds," Hoyt said. "Right now, our census is right at 70. We are stretched, very stretched, just to staff those 70 with the conditions that we're in."

The problem is that there are many more things people can also be hospitalized for rather than COVID and those are continuing.

"The uptick really started about three weeks ago," Hoyt said. "It was a slow roll. There was a point when I had no COVID patients at all in the hospital and we were starting to see an increase in some severely ill. Really folks had put stuff off for the last 18 months and suddenly, they can't do it any more. Now, they are coming through the door, through the Emergency Department. They're presenting. COVID is also hitting us and if you think about it, you're almost facing the perfect storm."

Most of those who have been hospitalized are not vaccinated.

"In July, we identified 31 COVID positives that came to the hospital, either through outpatient, ED or inpatient," Hoyt said. "Of those 31, 25 were unvaccinated. We have a certain percentage that are vaccinated that are getting it, these breakthrough cases, but by far, three fourths of those we're seeing, they are not vaccinated."

Hoyt does not know of a single case of a breakthrough infection at HRMC that has resulted in a death.

"People who are exposed to this new variant are manifesting symptoms somewhere between the three to four day mark, which is drastically different than what we had before, roughly between seven and ten days," Hoyt said. "You're going to know fast and it's going to hit you hard. The group that's really being affected right now, they're younger, they're fitter, they also generally tend to be the folks that aren't vaccinated."

Hoyt knows of a young infant that was hospitalized along with other family members.

"There is really nothing out there that tells you how to treat that," Hoyt said. "Through the exceptional work of the pediatricians and others, you can overcome it, but it reminds you of how infectious this disease is, really."

Hoyt is urging anyone who can to get vaccinated. If you're sick, stay home. Wear your mask. Practice good hand hygiene and if you have nursing training and can pick up even one shift a week, please contact the hospital for more information. Call Kayla Orellana at (620) 665-2227. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628176374482.jpeg" alt="Wes Hoyt - Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System" />
 <figcaption>Wes Hoyt - Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Chief Operating Officer for Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Wes Hoyt is concerned about the number of hospitalizations they are seeing of late from COVID-19."We're looking at reopening a unit, the only problem is, it's probably going to be the COVID unit again, just because of what we're seeing as an uptick here recently," Hoyt said. "As of 11 p.m. last night, because I haven't gotten the 7 a.m. report yet, we had eight patients in the hospital that were COVID positive."They just don't have enough staff."According to our license, we have 190 beds," Hoyt said. "Right now, our census is right at 70. We are stretched, very stretched, just to staff those 70 with the conditions that we're in."The problem is that there are many more things people can also be hospitalized for rather than COVID and those are continuing."The uptick really started about three weeks ago," Hoyt said. "It was a slow roll. There was a point when I had no COVID patients at all in the hospital and we were starting to see an increase in some severely ill. Really folks had put stuff off for the last 18 months and suddenly, they can't do it any more. Now, they are coming through the door, through the Emergency Department. They're presenting. COVID is also hitting us and if you think about it, you're almost facing the perfect storm."Most of those who have been hospitalized are not vaccinated."In July, we identified 31 COVID positives that came to the hospital, either through outpatient, ED or inpatient," Hoyt said. "Of those 31, 25 were unvaccinated. We have a certain percentage that are vaccinated that are getting it, these breakthrough cases, but by far, three fourths of those we're seeing, they are not vaccinated."Hoyt does not know of a single case of a breakthrough infection at HRMC that has resulted in a death."People who are exposed to this new variant are manifesting symptoms somewhere between the three to four day mark, which is drastically different than what we had before, roughly between seven and ten days," Hoyt said. "You're going to know fast and it's going to hit you hard. The group that's really being affected right now, they're younger, they're fitter, they also generally tend to be the folks that aren't vaccinated."Hoyt knows of a young infant that was hospitalized along with other family members."There is really nothing out there that tells you how to treat that," Hoyt said. "Through the exceptional work of the pediatricians and others, you can overcome it, but it reminds you of how infectious this disease is, really."Hoyt is urging anyone who can to get vaccinated. If you're sick, stay home. Wear your mask. Practice good hand hygiene and if you have nursing training and can pick up even one shift a week, please contact the hospital for more information. Call Kayla Orellana at (620) 665-2227.

HRMC COO: 'Perfect storm' stressing staff as COVID hospitalizations up

RENO COUNTY — A driver was cited after an accident at Smoots Creek and Haven Road Wednesday evening.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, Wanda Day along with passenger Karen Zoglman were west bound on Smoots Creek in her 2014 black Ford Edge while Cody Hammer was south bound in his 2010 black Ford F150. 

When they entered the intersection the F150 collided with the Edge causing the airbags to deploy in the Edge and moving it off the roadway to the southwest. 

No injuries were reported, seat belts were worn by all parties. Side curtain airbags were deployed in the Edge, both vehicles were driven from the scene. Wanda Day was cited for failure to yield right of way at an uncontrolled intersection. 

The call happened just before 6 p.m. Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — A driver was cited after an accident at Smoots Creek and Haven Road Wednesday evening.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, Wanda Day along with passenger Karen Zoglman were west bound on Smoots Creek in her 2014 black Ford Edge while Cody Hammer was south bound in his 2010 black Ford F150. When they entered the intersection the F150 collided with the Edge causing the airbags to deploy in the Edge and moving it off the roadway to the southwest. No injuries were reported, seat belts were worn by all parties. Side curtain airbags were deployed in the Edge, both vehicles were driven from the scene. Wanda Day was cited for failure to yield right of way at an uncontrolled intersection. The call happened just before 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Airbags, seatbelts help prevent injury in Wednesday wreck

MANHATTAN — Farmers and ranchers from across Kansas gathered in Manhattan July 30-31 for the annual Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&amp;R) leaders conference. The conference is normally hosted in January but was rescheduled due to COVID-19. More than 250 young crop and livestock producers from across the state attended the two-day Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) conference designed to maximize efficiency on their family operations. The conference provided young ag producers between the ages of 18-35 with agricultural education, motivational speakers and opportunities to connect with industry resources and network with peers. Attendees heard from KFB President Rich Felts; Jon Iverson, American Farm Bureau Federation YF&amp;R Committee Chair from Oregon; Rob Sharkey, a grain farmer and influencer from Illinois; and Tyne Morgan, the host of the U.S. Farm Report. Participants also had the opportunity to learn about farm safety with three grain bin safety demonstrations. State committee members from each of the 10 Kansas Farm Bureau districts planned and hosted the conference that included workshops, speakers, tours and competitions. The YF&amp;R state committee played an integral part in making this year’s conference a success. Winners of the conference competitions included: •&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Excellence in Agriculture – Mike and Ashley Beying, Osage County •&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;YF&amp;R of the Year – Nick Panek, Pratt County Recordings featuring keynote speakers and select workshops will be made available online soon. To learn more, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=b517ee74f0&amp;e=27e264ea00" target="_blank">www.kfb.org/yfr</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601566542106.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — Farmers and ranchers from across Kansas gathered in Manhattan July 30-31 for the annual Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&amp;R) leaders conference. The conference is normally hosted in January but was rescheduled due to COVID-19. More than 250 young crop and livestock producers from across the state attended the two-day Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) conference designed to maximize efficiency on their family operations. The conference provided young ag producers between the ages of 18-35 with agricultural education, motivational speakers and opportunities to connect with industry resources and network with peers. Attendees heard from KFB President Rich Felts; Jon Iverson, American Farm Bureau Federation YF&amp;R Committee Chair from Oregon; Rob Sharkey, a grain farmer and influencer from Illinois; and Tyne Morgan, the host of the U.S. Farm Report. Participants also had the opportunity to learn about farm safety with three grain bin safety demonstrations. State committee members from each of the 10 Kansas Farm Bureau districts planned and hosted the conference that included workshops, speakers, tours and competitions. The YF&amp;R state committee played an integral part in making this year’s conference a success. Winners of the conference competitions included: •&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Excellence in Agriculture – Mike and Ashley Beying, Osage County •&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;YF&amp;R of the Year – Nick Panek, Pratt County Recordings featuring keynote speakers and select workshops will be made available online soon. To learn more, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=b517ee74f0&amp;e=27e264ea00" target="_blank">www.kfb.org/yfr</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Young farmers and ranchers attend statewide leadership conference

Reno County Commissioner Daniel P. Friesen

If you look closely, I just got my first dose Wednesday of last week. Prior to my vaccination, like many, I had reservations about the vaccine - nothing specific, it just didn't seem worth it. I had Covid-19 last year and generally felt my risk was low. Those are similar reasons I’ve heard from other people that have chosen not to get the vaccine.

However, I felt compelled to get the vaccine if as a county commissioner, I’m going to support our health department and local medical community’s plea for you to get it too. While I certainly have strong convictions on personal freedom and choice, I am also a very analytical person that seeks facts and information and have never found my decisions on Covid-19 policy to be driven politically.

The latest information I have from our local hospital is that resources are again tight (related to many factors including a shortage of nurses), and hospitalized covid patients are increasing again. The situation is significant enough that many Kansas hospitals are again full and deferring patients elsewhere. This was a surprise to me and a large factor in this open letter to our community.

I believe our local health professionals when they say people are showing up at the hospital with life threatening covid symptoms who didn’t even know they were at risk. They also say they are now actively seeing younger covid patients as the virus naturally moves towards a population that is less vaccinated.

It seems quite possible that the Covid virus is here for a long time to come, and most every person will encounter it at some point. It is also quite evident that the virus and its impact is wildly unpredictable. These factors all look like risks to me, especially to those most vulnerable. You should weigh those risks with the Reno County commission’s current position on mandates.

I would not expect Reno County to require masks, limit gatherings, or close businesses or schools through this next wave. We have the right tools at our disposal to individually handle this threat and weather the storm the best we can. Most every adult and adolescent has an opportunity to get a potentially life-saving vaccine, stay home when they are sick or vulnerable to sickness, and do other common sense measures like listening to their family physician.

Yet, my fear is that people in our community are going to die because they did not get the vaccine or our medical resources become overwhelmed. I continue to respect the decision of those who choose not to get it, but I recently have come to respectfully disagree with those who argue the potential risk of the vaccine outweighs the value.

There seems to be good local evidence that vaccinated individuals currently have a hugely better likelihood of surviving contracting covid. Specifically, greater than 99% of all hospitalizations and deaths related to Covid-19 in Reno County are unvaccinated and we have yet to lose one person who was vaccinated. Consider that when you consider your risks.

You can choose to believe me or not, parse my words, or find information that supports an argument against what I have laid out above. It really does not matter because at the end of the day, those decisions are your own to make, and I am simply hopeful you consider the risk to yourself, your loved ones and your community in whatever you decide.

Finally, two important specific notes. One, vaccines are <a href="https://www.vaccines.gov/search/">widely available to you today</a>. Two, if you are a registered nurse who has time, please consider offering your skills to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center - Kayla Orellana (620) 665-2227. They are in increasing need for your help as Covid patient counts continue to rise.

Commissioner Daniel Friesen is vice-chair of the Reno County Commission. He was elected last November and took office in early January of this year. Friesen was previously a third-term mayor of the City of Buhler, holding that position for 11 years before joining the Commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628158737614.jpeg" alt="Commissioner Daniel Friesen" />
 <figcaption>Commissioner Daniel Friesen</figcaption>
 </figure>Reno County Commissioner Daniel P. FriesenBelow is my vaccination card.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628158688655.jpeg" alt="Daniel Friesen Vaccination Card" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Friesen Vaccination Card</figcaption>
 </figure>If you look closely, I just got my first dose Wednesday of last week. Prior to my vaccination, like many, I had reservations about the vaccine - nothing specific, it just didn't seem worth it. I had Covid-19 last year and generally felt my risk was low. Those are similar reasons I’ve heard from other people that have chosen not to get the vaccine.However, I felt compelled to get the vaccine if as a county commissioner, I’m going to support our health department and local medical community’s plea for you to get it too. While I certainly have strong convictions on personal freedom and choice, I am also a very analytical person that seeks facts and information and have never found my decisions on Covid-19 policy to be driven politically.The latest information I have from our local hospital is that resources are again tight (related to many factors including a shortage of nurses), and hospitalized covid patients are increasing again. The situation is significant enough that many Kansas hospitals are again full and deferring patients elsewhere. This was a surprise to me and a large factor in this open letter to our community.I believe our local health professionals when they say people are showing up at the hospital with life threatening covid symptoms who didn’t even know they were at risk. They also say they are now actively seeing younger covid patients as the virus naturally moves towards a population that is less vaccinated.It seems quite possible that the Covid virus is here for a long time to come, and most every person will encounter it at some point. It is also quite evident that the virus and its impact is wildly unpredictable. These factors all look like risks to me, especially to those most vulnerable. You should weigh those risks with the Reno County commission’s current position on mandates.I would not expect Reno County to require masks, limit gatherings, or close businesses or schools through this next wave. We have the right tools at our disposal to individually handle this threat and weather the storm the best we can. Most every adult and adolescent has an opportunity to get a potentially life-saving vaccine, stay home when they are sick or vulnerable to sickness, and do other common sense measures like listening to their family physician.Yet, my fear is that people in our community are going to die because they did not get the vaccine or our medical resources become overwhelmed. I continue to respect the decision of those who choose not to get it, but I recently have come to respectfully disagree with those who argue the potential risk of the vaccine outweighs the value.There seems to be good local evidence that vaccinated individuals currently have a hugely better likelihood of surviving contracting covid. Specifically, greater than 99% of all hospitalizations and deaths related to Covid-19 in Reno County are unvaccinated and we have yet to lose one person who was vaccinated. Consider that when you consider your risks.You can choose to believe me or not, parse my words, or find information that supports an argument against what I have laid out above. It really does not matter because at the end of the day, those decisions are your own to make, and I am simply hopeful you consider the risk to yourself, your loved ones and your community in whatever you decide.Finally, two important specific notes. One, vaccines are <a href="https://www.vaccines.gov/search/">widely available to you today</a>. Two, if you are a registered nurse who has time, please consider offering your skills to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center - Kayla Orellana (620) 665-2227. They are in increasing need for your help as Covid patient counts continue to rise.Commissioner Daniel Friesen is vice-chair of the Reno County Commission. He was elected last November and took office in early January of this year. Friesen was previously a third-term mayor of the City of Buhler, holding that position for 11 years before joining the Commission.

OPINION: Reno County Commissioner Makes Case for the Vaccine

HARVEY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating an animal attack that sent a boy to the hospital.

Just before 8p.m. Tuesday, police&nbsp; responded to help the boy, who was bitten by several dogs while he was riding a bicycle in the 400 block of W. 6th Street in Newton, according to a media release.

&nbsp;A Newton Police officer assisted the boy and treated the wounds at the scene before the child was transported to&nbsp;Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. 

The dogs were taken to Caring Hands Humane Society for observation. Police released no additional information about the boy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593015667557.png" alt="ambulance" />
 <figcaption>ambulance</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating an animal attack that sent a boy to the hospital.Just before 8p.m. Tuesday, police&nbsp; responded to help the boy, who was bitten by several dogs while he was riding a bicycle in the 400 block of W. 6th Street in Newton, according to a media release.&nbsp;A Newton Police officer assisted the boy and treated the wounds at the scene before the child was transported to&nbsp;Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. The dogs were taken to Caring Hands Humane Society for observation. Police released no additional information about the boy.

Police: Boy hospitalized after bitten by dogs in Newton

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man sentenced to at least 48 years in prison on a first-degree murder charge will be back in a Reno County courtroom Friday. Charles Christopher Logsdon has filed a civil motion, citing ineffective counsel.

Logsdon was convicted of intentional first-degree murder in the shooting death of Jennifer Heckel in 2011 in her home. The shooting was a case of mistaken identity. A co-defendant in the case, Billy Craig Jr., is serving a 15-year sentence after entering a plea to conspiracy to commit first-degree murder.

In his civil case, Logsdon claims that the defense failed to call 15 witnesses that could prove his innocence. The list includes cellmates, people he claims were with him the night of the murder, and a neighbor of Heckel who says she saw a white male in the victim's backyard a week before the murder.&nbsp;

Former District Attorney Keith Schroeder, who is now a district court judge, has already filed a brief on the claims made by Logsdon.&nbsp;

Logsdon was in court last month on two other motions. The first was to have Judge Trish Rose recuse herself from the case. That motion was denied. The second was to have the entire District Attorney's office removed from the case. Logsdon’s defense attorney stated that the case would be an emotionally-charged one if it made it back to trial again. That motion was also denied.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628109360050.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man sentenced to at least 48 years in prison on a first-degree murder charge will be back in a Reno County courtroom Friday. Charles Christopher Logsdon has filed a civil motion, citing ineffective counsel.Logsdon was convicted of intentional first-degree murder in the shooting death of Jennifer Heckel in 2011 in her home. The shooting was a case of mistaken identity. A co-defendant in the case, Billy Craig Jr., is serving a 15-year sentence after entering a plea to conspiracy to commit first-degree murder.In his civil case, Logsdon claims that the defense failed to call 15 witnesses that could prove his innocence. The list includes cellmates, people he claims were with him the night of the murder, and a neighbor of Heckel who says she saw a white male in the victim's backyard a week before the murder.&nbsp;Former District Attorney Keith Schroeder, who is now a district court judge, has already filed a brief on the claims made by Logsdon.&nbsp;Logsdon was in court last month on two other motions. The first was to have Judge Trish Rose recuse herself from the case. That motion was denied. The second was to have the entire District Attorney's office removed from the case. Logsdon’s defense attorney stated that the case would be an emotionally-charged one if it made it back to trial again. That motion was also denied.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Hearing in civil case set for Friday 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Horizons Mental Health Center, along with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, will bring Leadercast Shift to Hutchinson on Thursday, Aug. 26, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Hutchinson First Church of the Nazarene, 4290 N. Monroe St.&nbsp;

Participants will learn what it means to lead yourself first, so you can lead others well. If preferred, a virtual option with extended hours to view is available.&nbsp;

The Leadercast Shift stage will feature leaders who explain the power and importance of leading yourself based on their own experiences, research, personal challenges and achievements.&nbsp;

Early-bird pricing is $79 through Aug. 13 and $89 starting Aug. 14. Go to <a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/2021Leadercast%20Shift-8572/details">hutchchamber.com</a> for more information and to register, or call the Chamber at 620-662-3391.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628109524715.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Horizons Mental Health Center, along with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, will bring Leadercast Shift to Hutchinson on Thursday, Aug. 26, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Hutchinson First Church of the Nazarene, 4290 N. Monroe St.&nbsp;Participants will learn what it means to lead yourself first, so you can lead others well. If preferred, a virtual option with extended hours to view is available.&nbsp;The Leadercast Shift stage will feature leaders who explain the power and importance of leading yourself based on their own experiences, research, personal challenges and achievements.&nbsp;Early-bird pricing is $79 through Aug. 13 and $89 starting Aug. 14. Go to <a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/2021Leadercast%20Shift-8572/details">hutchchamber.com</a> for more information and to register, or call the Chamber at 620-662-3391.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Leadercast Shift program coming to Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman explained that the district she leads is taking its own approach to COVID-19 protocols for the upcoming school year.

"Right now, our plan at Buhler is to open without facemasks," Couchman said. "That's usually the biggest thing people are worried about. We are not doing temperature checks this year. Last year we did and this year we are not. We've learned a lot about COVID and how it spreads."

The district reserves the right to adjust based on future data.

"The plan is to look at our building numbers and exposures inside each building," Couchman said. "It's possible that we would mask up by building, if we had some concern that exposure is happening inside a building. We would say, okay, Buhler High School, or Prairie Hills, or wherever the building is at, that you would mask up and maybe it would be four weeks at a time and we would reevaluate it to see if maybe we can't get numbers calmed down."

Buhler is also going to host a vaccination clinic.

"They're looking at one in September, I believe," Couchman said. "We haven't finalized that with Reno County Health. We're looking at some clinics both in the fall and the beginning of winter, to try to get as many people vaccinated as possible."

Buhler is not going to use the same gating criteria as they did last year. They lifted that last spring. The board has not committed to specific case numbers that will trigger future actions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625156550797.jpeg" alt="Cindy Couchman USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Couchman USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman explained that the district she leads is taking its own approach to COVID-19 protocols for the upcoming school year."Right now, our plan at Buhler is to open without facemasks," Couchman said. "That's usually the biggest thing people are worried about. We are not doing temperature checks this year. Last year we did and this year we are not. We've learned a lot about COVID and how it spreads."The district reserves the right to adjust based on future data."The plan is to look at our building numbers and exposures inside each building," Couchman said. "It's possible that we would mask up by building, if we had some concern that exposure is happening inside a building. We would say, okay, Buhler High School, or Prairie Hills, or wherever the building is at, that you would mask up and maybe it would be four weeks at a time and we would reevaluate it to see if maybe we can't get numbers calmed down."Buhler is also going to host a vaccination clinic."They're looking at one in September, I believe," Couchman said. "We haven't finalized that with Reno County Health. We're looking at some clinics both in the fall and the beginning of winter, to try to get as many people vaccinated as possible."Buhler is not going to use the same gating criteria as they did last year. They lifted that last spring. The board has not committed to specific case numbers that will trigger future actions.

Couchman: No facemasks for now in USD 313, vaccination clinic planned

Captains Craig Walle and Justin Williams, along with firefighter Matt Young and Kansas Forest Service Employee Brice Haverkamp have arrived in Spokane, Washington and will get their first assignments Wednesday. They are replacing Firefighters Brent Fisher, Cole Ingrham, Jacob Ice and Kyle Graves who left July 15th to help with the fire.

Over the last 16 days the first crew sent out has assisted with monitoring the fire, performing lookout duties, spot fire containment, performing defensive mitigation efforts around areas the fire is moving towards, and setting up portable sprinkler systems. During the first few days there was a medical emergency, that the crew provided aid until a medical helicopter arrived.

Fisher, Ingrham, Ice and Graves are expected back in Hutchinson Wednesday evening.

<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 updat&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628090529351.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Another group of Hutchinson Fire Department personnel are on their way to Idaho to assist in the wildfire efforts there.&nbsp;Captains Craig Walle and Justin Williams, along with firefighter Matt Young and Kansas Forest Service Employee Brice Haverkamp have arrived in Spokane, Washington and will get their first assignments Wednesday. They are replacing Firefighters Brent Fisher, Cole Ingrham, Jacob Ice and Kyle Graves who left July 15th to help with the fire.At last report, the Tumbledown fire has been rolled into what is now called the Stateline Complex fire that consists of 12 individual fires covering 11,350 Acres.&nbsp;Over the last 16 days the first crew sent out has assisted with monitoring the fire, performing lookout duties, spot fire containment, performing defensive mitigation efforts around areas the fire is moving towards, and setting up portable sprinkler systems. During the first few days there was a medical emergency, that the crew provided aid until a medical helicopter arrived.Fisher, Ingrham, Ice and Graves are expected back in Hutchinson Wednesday evening.<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 updat&nbsp;&nbsp;

A second Hutchinson Fire crew on the way to Idaho


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Dr. Scott Pauly with the Hutchinson Clinic is looking for help, as the COVID-19 Delta variant is creating a human resource issue for both the Clinic and Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System.

"The current problem all across the region and across the state at this point, not just Hutchinson, is a resource, as in trained personnel problem," Pauly said. 

The patients being hospitalized are younger, too.

"We went from having no positive outpatient tests for weeks, to having a trickle of positives, to having our COVID positive patients in the hospital overall having an average age, when you count the infants, it probably pulls the average age down into the teenage years," Pauly said. "That doesn't give you a full explanation, because, when someone is less than one year old, it pulls down the average age quite far, but I could tell you that, off the top of my head, I can't think of a patient with COVID-19 in the hospital right now above 40 years old."

Pauly acknowledges that not all the patients are being genotyped to know which variant they have, but regardless, he needs help.

"I don't have the staff to do what we did this fall and winter," Pauly said. "We are spread extremely thin. I know employers in all non-medical realms have felt that. We saw that in the health care field. Part of that is a lack of traveling nurses. Part of it is, we have some highly skilled, highly trained nurses who have said that they can't live through another pandemic like it was this fall and winter. Some of that was the amount of death and morbidity they saw. I'll be honest, a lot of it was the lack of support they saw from our local community. They are under the impression that these people in the local community just look at the outside walls of these facilities and say nothing looks different. Individuals don't understand that these young men and women went to war every day and they came home to a very unsupportive community."

Pauly is asking all retired, especially licensed, nurses in the area to call the clinic or the hospital if they can help. The most desperate needs are those who are critically care trained, ER trained, or capable of outpatient IV therapeutic administration.

Nurses who can work should call Kayla Orellana at HRMC at (620) 665-2227.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601667424562.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Dr. Scott Pauly with the Hutchinson Clinic is looking for help, as the COVID-19 Delta variant is creating a human resource issue for both the Clinic and Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System."The current problem all across the region and across the state at this point, not just Hutchinson, is a resource, as in trained personnel problem," Pauly said. The patients being hospitalized are younger, too."We went from having no positive outpatient tests for weeks, to having a trickle of positives, to having our COVID positive patients in the hospital overall having an average age, when you count the infants, it probably pulls the average age down into the teenage years," Pauly said. "That doesn't give you a full explanation, because, when someone is less than one year old, it pulls down the average age quite far, but I could tell you that, off the top of my head, I can't think of a patient with COVID-19 in the hospital right now above 40 years old."Pauly acknowledges that not all the patients are being genotyped to know which variant they have, but regardless, he needs help."I don't have the staff to do what we did this fall and winter," Pauly said. "We are spread extremely thin. I know employers in all non-medical realms have felt that. We saw that in the health care field. Part of that is a lack of traveling nurses. Part of it is, we have some highly skilled, highly trained nurses who have said that they can't live through another pandemic like it was this fall and winter. Some of that was the amount of death and morbidity they saw. I'll be honest, a lot of it was the lack of support they saw from our local community. They are under the impression that these people in the local community just look at the outside walls of these facilities and say nothing looks different. Individuals don't understand that these young men and women went to war every day and they came home to a very unsupportive community."Pauly is asking all retired, especially licensed, nurses in the area to call the clinic or the hospital if they can help. The most desperate needs are those who are critically care trained, ER trained, or capable of outpatient IV therapeutic administration.Nurses who can work should call Kayla Orellana at HRMC at (620) 665-2227.

Pauly asking for retired, licensed nurses to help with latest COVID surge

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Enrollment for the approaching school year is underway all around Reno County.

Pretty Prairie USD 311 will hold enrollment for all students on Thursday, August 5 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., in the Middle School Auditorium.&nbsp;

Parents or guardians are asked to enter through the east doors. If a parent or guardian is unable to attend on Thursday they can contact their respective school secretary for a time to enroll.&nbsp;

Please note all school offices are still on summer hours and will be closed on Friday, August 6.

<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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598374070179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Enrollment for the approaching school year is underway all around Reno County.Pretty Prairie USD 311 will hold enrollment for all students on Thursday, August 5 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., in the Middle School Auditorium.&nbsp;Parents or guardians are asked to enter through the east doors. If a parent or guardian is unable to attend on Thursday they can contact their respective school secretary for a time to enroll.&nbsp;Those numbers are:Elementary School-620-459-6621&nbsp;Middle School-620-459-6911&nbsp;High School-620-459-6313&nbsp;Please note all school offices are still on summer hours and will be closed on Friday, August 6.<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.

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