
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Just a handful of total patients are in the diagnostic or treatment process with Hutchinson Regional Medical Center as of Monday.

According to Chuck Welch with the hospital, there are five positive patients admitted. One of those is on a ventilator.&nbsp;

The hospital says they are awaiting test results on four other patients.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Just a handful of total patients are in the diagnostic or treatment process with Hutchinson Regional Medical Center as of Monday.According to Chuck Welch with the hospital, there are five positive patients admitted. One of those is on a ventilator.&nbsp;The hospital says they are awaiting test results on four other patients.

Hutchinson Regional releases COVID-19 information as of Monday

TOPEKA —Gov. Laura Kelly is scheduled to announce the state's plan for education in the fall this week.

A press briefing is scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Kansas Statehouse.

Kelly will speak with Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and Dr. Randy Watson, Kansas Commissioner of Education.

Check Hutch Post for the latest news on the state's plan for school in the fall.

TOPEKA —Gov. Laura Kelly is scheduled to announce the state's plan for education in the fall this week.A press briefing is scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Kansas Statehouse.Kelly will speak with Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and Dr. Randy Watson, Kansas Commissioner of Education.Check Hutch Post for the latest news on the state's plan for school in the fall.

Governor will announce state plan for schools this week

Reno County Administrator Randy Partington knows that COVID-19 has changed the budget process for 2021 from what normally happens.

"The budget has to be adopted and sent to the county clerk by August 25," Partington said Monday. "To do that, you have to obviously have all departments come in with all their requests, their thoughts, what they see for the next year. They start that process around February."

With the pandemic, department heads quickly understood that changes needed to be made.

"All the directors did a great job at keeping their budgets as flat as possible," Partington said. "Some of the increases may be capital. We made cuts across the board. We tried to be as efficient as possible with every expenditure. On the revenue side, for the expectations for 2021, we made the assumption after talking with other city and county managers across the state for about a 20% reduction in the sales tax expectations, which is about $800,000 for Reno County."

Property taxes are the backbone of the county's budget.

"The majority is property tax," Partington said. "Probably 70 to 75%. The others is user fees and sales tax is probably about 20%."

The county commission will get its look at the budget on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576599188284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reno County Administrator Randy Partington knows that COVID-19 has changed the budget process for 2021 from what normally happens."The budget has to be adopted and sent to the county clerk by August 25," Partington said Monday. "To do that, you have to obviously have all departments come in with all their requests, their thoughts, what they see for the next year. They start that process around February."With the pandemic, department heads quickly understood that changes needed to be made."All the directors did a great job at keeping their budgets as flat as possible," Partington said. "Some of the increases may be capital. We made cuts across the board. We tried to be as efficient as possible with every expenditure. On the revenue side, for the expectations for 2021, we made the assumption after talking with other city and county managers across the state for about a 20% reduction in the sales tax expectations, which is about $800,000 for Reno County."Property taxes are the backbone of the county's budget."The majority is property tax," Partington said. "Probably 70 to 75%. The others is user fees and sales tax is probably about 20%."The county commission will get its look at the budget on Tuesday.

Partington: Directors helped keep budget in check

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two Hutchinson High School Seniors have been named winners of the Davis Foundation Scholarships. Evann Deal and Ronald Heminway were announced as the recipients on Monday. 

Normally, the announcement would have come at the annual awards ceremony but the pandemic forced the cancellation of the event.&nbsp;

Other finalists were Ryle McFadden, McKenzie Dunigan, Weston Kraus, and Katherine Thurston. This is the 66th year for the Davis Foundation scholarships. During that time, more than 200 students have received scholarships. When the first scholarships were awarded in the 1950s, the scholarships were $500 a year for four years.

A complete list of award winners is below.

Joe Blake, Bailey Buchanan, Evann Deal, Lauren Denison, Carolyn Fee, Ron Heminway, Weston Kraus, Gabbie Posch, Ryan Shaban, Katie Thurston

Burton &amp; Doris Lyman &amp; James Thompson Memorial Scholarship

Jennifer A. Goodman Memorial Scholarship

Marjorie Eleanor Schreiber Scholarship

George and Belle Pearce Trust Fund Scholarship

John H. “Jack” Caton Memorial Scholarship

Jasmyne Armstrong, Natallie Basgall, Korree Byard, Breanna Colborn, Briana Haney, Jenna Lightsey, Bailie Pitts, Adriana Quijada, Brayden Rogers, Taybin Smith, Dakota Wolfe, Robert Ybarra

Class of 1947 John &amp; Bobbi Baker Scholarship

Altrusa International Office Education Scholarship

Coberly/Tweito Memorial Scholarship

The Hazel Doherty Scholarship for Lincoln Students

Charles &amp; Sharon Kimbell Family Scholarship

Recognition of Kansas Broad of Regents

Scholars Kansas Scholars Curriculum Completers

Recognition of KS Board of Regents Designated State Scholars

Presidential Academic Fitness Award

Quincey Baker, Neely Benson, Joe Blake, Peyton Cohoon, Azia Colvin, Evann Deal, Izaiah Delvalle, Marissa Franz, Ronald Heminway, Weston Kraus, Rylie McFadden, Joshua Morris, Jenna Ramsey, Nia Reneau, Jackson Rhoades, Katherine Thurston, Charlize Urbanek, Seamus Wamsley, Dakota Wolfe

James A. and Juliet L. Davis Foundations Scholarship

Other Finalists: McKenzie Dunigan, Weston Kraus, Ryle McFadden, Katherine Thurston

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two Hutchinson High School Seniors have been named winners of the Davis Foundation Scholarships. Evann Deal and Ronald Heminway were announced as the recipients on Monday. Normally, the announcement would have come at the annual awards ceremony but the pandemic forced the cancellation of the event.&nbsp;Other finalists were Ryle McFadden, McKenzie Dunigan, Weston Kraus, and Katherine Thurston. This is the 66th year for the Davis Foundation scholarships. During that time, more than 200 students have received scholarships. When the first scholarships were awarded in the 1950s, the scholarships were $500 a year for four years.A complete list of award winners is below.Leaders, Today and TomorrowJoe Blake, Bailey Buchanan, Evann Deal, Lauren Denison, Carolyn Fee, Ron Heminway, Weston Kraus, Gabbie Posch, Ryan Shaban, Katie ThurstonBurton &amp; Doris Lyman &amp; James Thompson Memorial ScholarshipJoe BlakeKansas CTE ScholarEvann Deal, Macie YoderJennifer A. Goodman Memorial ScholarshipNicholas HoffmanHutchinson NEA ScholarshipPage MartinezMarjorie Eleanor Schreiber ScholarshipTaylor Manke, Izaiah DelvalleGeorge and Belle Pearce Trust Fund ScholarshipEmogen Snyder, Lucas WinchesterJohn H. “Jack” Caton Memorial ScholarshipBriana HaneyClass of 1965 ScholarshipJasmyne Armstrong, Natallie Basgall, Korree Byard, Breanna Colborn, Briana Haney, Jenna Lightsey, Bailie Pitts, Adriana Quijada, Brayden Rogers, Taybin Smith, Dakota Wolfe, Robert YbarraPatricia Petty Enlow ScholarshipHailey JenksNational School Choral AwardDalton HobbsRonn Roehm Education ScholarshipCooper KoestelJohn Phillip Sousa AwardCooper KoestelLouie Armstrong Jazz AwardKyler EddingtonNational School Orchestra AwardMarissa FranzRon Southard’s MemorialEli HallfordOutstanding Athlete AwardLevi Allen, Gabbie PoschClass of 1947 John &amp; Bobbi Baker ScholarshipLevi AllenMarty Casey FACS ScholarshipJocelyn YatesThe Carol Wonderlich ScholarshipLauren DenisonClass of 1953-1954 ScholarshipAnnette TrenadoMelissa Yost Memorial ScholarshipMason WoodAltrusa International Office Education ScholarshipCharlize UrbanekCoberly/Tweito Memorial ScholarshipJoe Blake, Francisco VillanuevaClass of 1962 ScholarshipDalton Hobbs, Jocelyn YatesThe Hazel Doherty Scholarship for Lincoln StudentsLogan HowellClass of 1968 ScholarshipMarissa FranzShelter Insurance ScholarshipNia ReneauCharles &amp; Sharon Kimbell Family ScholarshipSeamus WamsleyDenny Hart ScholarshipJoe BlakeRecognition of Kansas Broad of RegentsScholars Kansas Scholars Curriculum CompletersYeka Gutierrez, Ronald HeminwayRecognition of KS Board of Regents Designated State ScholarsRonald HeminwayPresidential Academic Fitness AwardQuincey Baker, Neely Benson, Joe Blake, Peyton Cohoon, Azia Colvin, Evann Deal, Izaiah Delvalle, Marissa Franz, Ronald Heminway, Weston Kraus, Rylie McFadden, Joshua Morris, Jenna Ramsey, Nia Reneau, Jackson Rhoades, Katherine Thurston, Charlize Urbanek, Seamus Wamsley, Dakota WolfeJames A. and Juliet L. Davis Foundations ScholarshipWinners: Evann Deal and Ronald HeminwayOther Finalists: McKenzie Dunigan, Weston Kraus, Ryle McFadden, Katherine Thurston

Deal and Heminway win Davis Foundation Scholarships

NICKERSON,
Kan. — 
Nickerson USD 309 sent out letters along with five tickets to its 2020 graduates Monday.

"You must have a ticket to attend," said Nickerson High School principal Rick Blosser "We will be social distancing in the gym the best we can, so we are limited to the numbers we can have in attendance."

The gym will be marked for families to sit in groups of five and families will be seated in the marked areas.

"We will also live stream the event for those individuals who are unable to attend," Blosser said. "Masks will be required to wear."

No student will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony unless they have passed all required classes and have attained 28 credits. Students must have all obligations paid and Chromebooks turned in by July 23rd.

Graduation practice will be in the new gym at 9:00 a.m. Friday, July 24. Masks will be handed out to graduates when they arrive for graduation practice. They will need to be worn for practice and the ceremony.

Graduation will be Saturday, July 25 at 11:00 a.m. Doors will open at 10:00 a.m. Seniors must arrive by 10:30 a.m. and meet in the high school cafeteria.

There is a dress code for graduates, as well.

Men: Dress slacks, dress shirt, dress shoes and mask

Women: Dresses or dress slacks and dress shoes and mask.

Students failing to comply with the dress code will not be allowed to participate in the ceremony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594074151392.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON,
Kan. — 
Nickerson USD 309 sent out letters along with five tickets to its 2020 graduates Monday."You must have a ticket to attend," said Nickerson High School principal Rick Blosser "We will be social distancing in the gym the best we can, so we are limited to the numbers we can have in attendance."The gym will be marked for families to sit in groups of five and families will be seated in the marked areas."We will also live stream the event for those individuals who are unable to attend," Blosser said. "Masks will be required to wear."No student will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony unless they have passed all required classes and have attained 28 credits. Students must have all obligations paid and Chromebooks turned in by July 23rd.Graduation practice will be in the new gym at 9:00 a.m. Friday, July 24. Masks will be handed out to graduates when they arrive for graduation practice. They will need to be worn for practice and the ceremony.Graduation will be Saturday, July 25 at 11:00 a.m. Doors will open at 10:00 a.m. Seniors must arrive by 10:30 a.m. and meet in the high school cafeteria.There is a dress code for graduates, as well.Men: Dress slacks, dress shirt, dress shoes and maskWomen: Dresses or dress slacks and dress shoes and mask.Students failing to comply with the dress code will not be allowed to participate in the ceremony.

Nickerson USD 309 releases graduation information

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Commissioner of Education Randy Watson.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas Commissioner of Education Randy Watson" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/v7w3r-e30bb8?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Commissioner of Education Randy Watson.

🎤Forward Ever: Kan. Commissioner of Education Randy Watson

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

Judging by my mailbox, TV and social media, we are in the silly season of politics. Yes, the August primary is drawing near and the last, final and, in some cases, desperate push for your vote is happening. This year is a critical year for those of us in agriculture to make sure ag-friendly candidates are elected. I would also make the case that for those of you not involved in agriculture it is in your best interest as a consumer of food to elect ag-friendly candidates.

I know you are as overwhelmed by information and claims from candidates as I am. It is hard to cut out the noise and disinformation to figure out what is the truth and where the candidates stand on issues important to your business and livelihood. If there was only some way to find out who the friendliest candidates to agriculture are? Well, you are in luck, we have a list of candidates endorsed by our Voters Organized To Elect Farm Bureau Friends (VOTE FBF).

This is a committee of 10 Farm Bureau members elected to serve on the board from each district in the state. They weigh information sent to them from each of the county Farm Bureaus, look at the voting records of incumbents and information provided by candidates to determine which of the potential legislators has agriculture’s best interest in mind. I have witnessed the process firsthand, and I can tell you quite a lot goes into each selection. The committee has an incredible success rate, with more than 90 percent of our endorsed candidates being elected.

First, the information is gleaned at the county level. Each county has the opportunity to weigh in on candidates in their area. I know the board gives this information a great deal of weight. Then the voting records on issues critical to agriculture are considered. Each candidate is evaluated on how closely they aligned to policy developed from our grassroots, member-driven system. Then, after several meetings and hours of deliberation, decisions are made on which candidate to give the highly coveted Kansas Farm Bureau endorsement to. Often the endorsement means more to the candidates than any monetary donations we may give to their campaign.

I would ask you also do your homework and decide which candidate to vote for on your own. However, when doing this, make sure to check the list put out by VOTE FBF by going to www.kfb.org/votefbf. Again, I cannot tell you just how important the upcoming primary and the general election are for our nation and for agriculture. We need to make sure the right people are elected.

Equally as important is ensuring you exercise your right to vote for the candidate of your choice. Our nation depends on its citizens making informed decisions and voting. So come Aug. 4, do your patriotic duty, and make your voice heard.

"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/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherJudging by my mailbox, TV and social media, we are in the silly season of politics. Yes, the August primary is drawing near and the last, final and, in some cases, desperate push for your vote is happening. This year is a critical year for those of us in agriculture to make sure ag-friendly candidates are elected. I would also make the case that for those of you not involved in agriculture it is in your best interest as a consumer of food to elect ag-friendly candidates.I know you are as overwhelmed by information and claims from candidates as I am. It is hard to cut out the noise and disinformation to figure out what is the truth and where the candidates stand on issues important to your business and livelihood. If there was only some way to find out who the friendliest candidates to agriculture are? Well, you are in luck, we have a list of candidates endorsed by our Voters Organized To Elect Farm Bureau Friends (VOTE FBF).This is a committee of 10 Farm Bureau members elected to serve on the board from each district in the state. They weigh information sent to them from each of the county Farm Bureaus, look at the voting records of incumbents and information provided by candidates to determine which of the potential legislators has agriculture’s best interest in mind. I have witnessed the process firsthand, and I can tell you quite a lot goes into each selection. The committee has an incredible success rate, with more than 90 percent of our endorsed candidates being elected.First, the information is gleaned at the county level. Each county has the opportunity to weigh in on candidates in their area. I know the board gives this information a great deal of weight. Then the voting records on issues critical to agriculture are considered. Each candidate is evaluated on how closely they aligned to policy developed from our grassroots, member-driven system. Then, after several meetings and hours of deliberation, decisions are made on which candidate to give the highly coveted Kansas Farm Bureau endorsement to. Often the endorsement means more to the candidates than any monetary donations we may give to their campaign.I would ask you also do your homework and decide which candidate to vote for on your own. However, when doing this, make sure to check the list put out by VOTE FBF by going to www.kfb.org/votefbf. Again, I cannot tell you just how important the upcoming primary and the general election are for our nation and for agriculture. We need to make sure the right people are elected.Equally as important is ensuring you exercise your right to vote for the candidate of your choice. Our nation depends on its citizens making informed decisions and voting. So come Aug. 4, do your patriotic duty, and make your voice heard."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Voting for Agriculture

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The annual Pretty Prairie Rodeo is set to kick off its four-day run on Wednesday,&nbsp; July 15-18.

The livestock from the Beutler and Son Rodeo Company returns to Pretty Prairie. Recognized for providing some of the toughest broncs and bulls in the business over the past 70 years. Facing off against the livestock will be some of the top talent in the region and across the United States, as cowboys and cowgirls compete to earn points to qualify for the WNFR.

Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame announcer Randy Corley, voted PRCA announcer of the year on multiple occasions, returns to Pretty Prairie to call the action.

Entertainment will be provided by trick rider and clown John Harrison, who has made seven appearances at the WNFR and is a three-time recipient of the PRCA Comedy Act of the Year. He will be joined in the arena by bullfighters Evan Allard and Wacey Munsell, both familiar faces in Pretty Prairie. A dance will follow the Friday and Saturday performances, featuring the music of Prairie Smoke. Admission to the dance is free with a rodeo ticket.

Tickets are on sale now. All tickets will be handled on a general admission basis on Wednesday and Thursday, while they will be reserved seats on Friday and Saturday. Tickets can be purchased in advance, and doing so is encouraged to avoid lines at the ticket booths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560872419185.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The annual Pretty Prairie Rodeo is set to kick off its four-day run on Wednesday,&nbsp; July 15-18.The livestock from the Beutler and Son Rodeo Company returns to Pretty Prairie. Recognized for providing some of the toughest broncs and bulls in the business over the past 70 years. Facing off against the livestock will be some of the top talent in the region and across the United States, as cowboys and cowgirls compete to earn points to qualify for the WNFR.Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame announcer Randy Corley, voted PRCA announcer of the year on multiple occasions, returns to Pretty Prairie to call the action.Entertainment will be provided by trick rider and clown John Harrison, who has made seven appearances at the WNFR and is a three-time recipient of the PRCA Comedy Act of the Year. He will be joined in the arena by bullfighters Evan Allard and Wacey Munsell, both familiar faces in Pretty Prairie. A dance will follow the Friday and Saturday performances, featuring the music of Prairie Smoke. Admission to the dance is free with a rodeo ticket.Tickets are on sale now. All tickets will be handled on a general admission basis on Wednesday and Thursday, while they will be reserved seats on Friday and Saturday. Tickets can be purchased in advance, and doing so is encouraged to avoid lines at the ticket booths.Concessions will be available.

Pretty Prairie Rodeo kicks off Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is the start of the new fiscal year for Hutchinson USD 308. The main order of business during Monday’s meeting will be the usual housekeeping chores.

The Board will elect a new President and Vice President and establish cash accounts for all of the district’s facilities.

The Board will also seek action on adopting the hourly school calendar requiring 1,116 hours for the school year and establish meeting dates, times and location for the regular board meetings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Board will also take action on meal and milk prices for the approaching school year.&nbsp;

Monday’s meeting of the Hutchinson USD 308 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the&nbsp; MidTown Center at 200 E. Sherman.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668902902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is the start of the new fiscal year for Hutchinson USD 308. The main order of business during Monday’s meeting will be the usual housekeeping chores.The Board will elect a new President and Vice President and establish cash accounts for all of the district’s facilities.The Board will also seek action on adopting the hourly school calendar requiring 1,116 hours for the school year and establish meeting dates, times and location for the regular board meetings.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Board will also take action on meal and milk prices for the approaching school year.&nbsp;Monday’s meeting of the Hutchinson USD 308 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the&nbsp; MidTown Center at 200 E. Sherman.

USD 308 kicks off new fiscal year Monday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;COVID-19 has pushed off some tax deadlines, but those are coming up this week.

"July 15 is the new April 15," said IRS spokesman Michael Devine. "Everybody has to file their tax return and pay any taxes owed by July 15. It's also the deadline for estimated tax payments that would normally have been due in April and June. Those are also due on July 15."

If you owe both estimated tax and actual tax, you need to think ahead.

"If you are in a position where you need to file your tax return and pay more tax and you are required to file estimated tax payments, you can't do that all as one payment," Devine said. "You have to pay those in two separate bills. You can put together your estimated tax payments and pay that one time and then pay your individual tax on a second payment. You can't put them together because we won't know which money goes to what account."

If you've had a change in your income and you know you can't pay, contacting the IRS in advance is still best and go ahead and file.

"You really need to file that tax return, because the failure to file penalty is ten times larger than the failure to pay penalty," Devine said. "File your tax return. Pay what you can. Then you can set up an installment agreement or wait until the IRS contacts you about paying the taxes that you owe."

The best way to find out what you can do is to go to irs.gov or call (800) 829-1040.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579706571729.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;COVID-19 has pushed off some tax deadlines, but those are coming up this week."July 15 is the new April 15," said IRS spokesman Michael Devine. "Everybody has to file their tax return and pay any taxes owed by July 15. It's also the deadline for estimated tax payments that would normally have been due in April and June. Those are also due on July 15."If you owe both estimated tax and actual tax, you need to think ahead."If you are in a position where you need to file your tax return and pay more tax and you are required to file estimated tax payments, you can't do that all as one payment," Devine said. "You have to pay those in two separate bills. You can put together your estimated tax payments and pay that one time and then pay your individual tax on a second payment. You can't put them together because we won't know which money goes to what account."If you've had a change in your income and you know you can't pay, contacting the IRS in advance is still best and go ahead and file."You really need to file that tax return, because the failure to file penalty is ten times larger than the failure to pay penalty," Devine said. "File your tax return. Pay what you can. Then you can set up an installment agreement or wait until the IRS contacts you about paying the taxes that you owe."The best way to find out what you can do is to go to irs.gov or call (800) 829-1040.

IRS: Rescheduled tax deadlines coming up July 15

Dr. Mark Steffen’s campaign for State Senate District 34 announced on Sunday that he had received the sole endorsement from the Family Policy Alliance of Kansas. 

FPAK is a public policy partner of Focus on the Family—and part of a vibrant national alliance of pro-family state groups. As a Christ-centered organization, our vision is a nation where God is honored, religious freedom flourishes, families thrive and life is cherished.

“Mark has spent his life investing in his community as a business owner.  He is a strong supporter of life and our God-given religious freedoms. Because his daughter is a Division-1 athlete, he knows the importance of protecting girls sports.  He also understands the importance of protecting our tax dollars from being able to perform abortions. Because he is a committed leader who will fight for our families in the Senate, we are proud to endorse Mark Steffen for State Senate,” stated Brittany Jones, Director of Advocacy for Family Policy Alliance of Kansas. 

“We are so honored to receive this endorsement. As the only pro-life, pro-family, and low tax conservative running for the State Senate I’m so grateful for the endorsement of the Family Policy Alliance.  I look forward to standing with them in defense of God, Family and True Conservatism,” stated Dr. Mark Steffen. 

Steffen, a local physician, small business owner, oilman and farmer is running for the Republican nomination in Kansas Senate District 34 against incumbent Ed Berger.  The primary is August 4th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593008647850.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Mark Steffen’s campaign for State Senate District 34 announced on Sunday that he had received the sole endorsement from the Family Policy Alliance of Kansas. FPAK is a public policy partner of Focus on the Family—and part of a vibrant national alliance of pro-family state groups. As a Christ-centered organization, our vision is a nation where God is honored, religious freedom flourishes, families thrive and life is cherished.“Mark has spent his life investing in his community as a business owner. He is a strong supporter of life and our God-given religious freedoms. Because his daughter is a Division-1 athlete, he knows the importance of protecting girls sports. He also understands the importance of protecting our tax dollars from being able to perform abortions. Because he is a committed leader who will fight for our families in the Senate, we are proud to endorse Mark Steffen for State Senate,” stated Brittany Jones, Director of Advocacy for Family Policy Alliance of Kansas. “We are so honored to receive this endorsement. As the only pro-life, pro-family, and low tax conservative running for the State Senate I’m so grateful for the endorsement of the Family Policy Alliance. I look forward to standing with them in defense of God, Family and True Conservatism,” stated Dr. Mark Steffen. Steffen, a local physician, small business owner, oilman and farmer is running for the Republican nomination in Kansas Senate District 34 against incumbent Ed Berger. The primary is August 4th.

Steffen receives Christian policy group's endorsement in State Senate race


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United States Supreme Court has handed down several big decisions in the last several days, but one of the ones that could mean a lot to Presidential elections going forward is a decision they made on faithless electors.

"The court, in a majority opinion held that a state can mandate an elector to vote in a particular way and can have these sorts of penalties if an elector chooses not to follow that mandate," said KU Law professor Lou Mulligan.

In 2016, seven of the 535 electors cast votes at odds with the popular-vote winners and three attempted to do so.

"Every state has some different scheme by which electors are obligated to follow the vote of the populace," Mulligan said. "Whether its by pledge or some sort of penalty or removal or fine, the states have different schemes."

The court held that regardless of the scheme, that power is the state's. This could even make the movement to have the popular vote decide the Presidency able to be executed without getting rid of the Electoral College, at least in theory.

"Each state could say, "My electors don't do what state voters do, but you vote pursuant to the national vote, rather, yeah, I think that this opinion would say if your state wants to have that state law and bind its electors that way, it can do that."

That would mean such an agreement would not require an act of Congress, but rather of the state legislature in each state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588604317484.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United States Supreme Court has handed down several big decisions in the last several days, but one of the ones that could mean a lot to Presidential elections going forward is a decision they made on faithless electors."The court, in a majority opinion held that a state can mandate an elector to vote in a particular way and can have these sorts of penalties if an elector chooses not to follow that mandate," said KU Law professor Lou Mulligan.In 2016, seven of the 535 electors cast votes at odds with the popular-vote winners and three attempted to do so."Every state has some different scheme by which electors are obligated to follow the vote of the populace," Mulligan said. "Whether its by pledge or some sort of penalty or removal or fine, the states have different schemes."The court held that regardless of the scheme, that power is the state's. This could even make the movement to have the popular vote decide the Presidency able to be executed without getting rid of the Electoral College, at least in theory."Each state could say, "My electors don't do what state voters do, but you vote pursuant to the national vote, rather, yeah, I think that this opinion would say if your state wants to have that state law and bind its electors that way, it can do that."That would mean such an agreement would not require an act of Congress, but rather of the state legislature in each state.

Electors can be penalized, KU law professor sees opening for change

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Saturday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge Ram driven by&nbsp; Ronald D. Partlow, 46, Hutchinson, was northbound on K14 just south of Arlington Road when he fell asleep. 

The pickup drifted into the east ditch where it rolled two and a half times and came to rest on its roof.

EMS transported&nbsp;Partlow to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Saturday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge Ram driven by&nbsp; Ronald D. Partlow, 46, Hutchinson, was northbound on K14 just south of Arlington Road when he fell asleep. The pickup drifted into the east ditch where it rolled two and a half times and came to rest on its roof.EMS transported&nbsp;Partlow to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Man from Hutchinson hospitalized after he falls asleep, pickup rolls

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — About $30,000 remains from the CDBG-CV grant that was awarded to Hutchinson in June. The subcommittee that was formed to dole out that money has decided to take a little different approach with some of the remaining funds by giving an opportunity for home-based daycare to receive financial help.&nbsp;

“As people go back to work and look for child care and school is up in the air, we wanted to make sure there were some funds available for that,” said Ryan Hvitlok with the City of Hutchinson. “ What the City Council has said is that they would like to keep some of those funds and do just grants for home-based daycare.”

The County also received similar funding but has not had the response the city has had. When the county extended the deadline for applications, it was flooded with proposals from Hutchinson. Hvitlok says unfortunately those businesses will not be able to take advantage of the county funds.

“That’s kind of the catch, unfortunately," Hvitlok said. “The county also was awarded those funds allocated directly for communities outside of Hutchinson."

Hvitlok says another round of applications will be taken later this month for businesses who may want assistance.

“We are working on the details on how much will actually be left over,” Hvitlok said. “Once we do that, we’ll see where the numbers line up and we’ll do a second small round of general applications probably towards the latter end of July.”&nbsp;

Hvitlok says once they address the daycare funding they hope to have about $15,000 to $20,000 left over for the second round of applications.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576261366986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — About $30,000 remains from the CDBG-CV grant that was awarded to Hutchinson in June. The subcommittee that was formed to dole out that money has decided to take a little different approach with some of the remaining funds by giving an opportunity for home-based daycare to receive financial help.&nbsp;“As people go back to work and look for child care and school is up in the air, we wanted to make sure there were some funds available for that,” said Ryan Hvitlok with the City of Hutchinson. “ What the City Council has said is that they would like to keep some of those funds and do just grants for home-based daycare.”The County also received similar funding but has not had the response the city has had. When the county extended the deadline for applications, it was flooded with proposals from Hutchinson. Hvitlok says unfortunately those businesses will not be able to take advantage of the county funds.“That’s kind of the catch, unfortunately," Hvitlok said. “The county also was awarded those funds allocated directly for communities outside of Hutchinson."Hvitlok says another round of applications will be taken later this month for businesses who may want assistance.“We are working on the details on how much will actually be left over,” Hvitlok said. “Once we do that, we’ll see where the numbers line up and we’ll do a second small round of general applications probably towards the latter end of July.”&nbsp;Hvitlok says once they address the daycare funding they hope to have about $15,000 to $20,000 left over for the second round of applications.

City wants portion of CDBG-CV funds to go to daycare

NEWTON, Kan. —The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed 18 new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:

· A female in her 70s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 60s. She had known out-of-state travel. · A female in her 50s. This case is under investigation. · A female in her 50s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 40s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A female in her 40s. She is a close contact of a known active case. She has already met recovery criteria. · A female in her 30s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A female in her 20s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation. · A male in his 60s. This case is under investigation. · A male in his 60s. He had known out-of-state travel. · A male in his 50s. He was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A male in his 40s. His source of exposure is unknown. · A male in his 30s. He is a close contact of a known active case. · A male between 10-and-19 years old. This case is under investigation. He has already met recovery criteria.

All of the above individuals are in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all close contacts.

Harvey County has had 81 COVID-19 cases to date, including 77 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 35 known active cases in Harvey County. Two individuals remain hospitalized. There have been 2,118 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593790914635.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. —The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed 18 new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:· A female in her 70s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 60s. She had known out-of-state travel. · A female in her 50s. This case is under investigation. · A female in her 50s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 40s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A female in her 40s. She is a close contact of a known active case. She has already met recovery criteria. · A female in her 30s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A female in her 20s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation. · A male in his 60s. This case is under investigation. · A male in his 60s. He had known out-of-state travel. · A male in his 50s. He was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A male in his 40s. His source of exposure is unknown. · A male in his 30s. He is a close contact of a known active case. · A male between 10-and-19 years old. This case is under investigation. He has already met recovery criteria.All of the above individuals are in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all close contacts.Harvey County has had 81 COVID-19 cases to date, including 77 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 35 known active cases in Harvey County. Two individuals remain hospitalized. There have been 2,118 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

Harvey County confirms eighteen more cases of COVID-19, currently 35 active

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Republican Party clarified the format for the upcoming forum Tuesday night at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

The July 14th event will be for a debate between Senator Ed Berger and Dr. Mark Steffen, candidates for State Senate district 34 at 7 p.m. &amp; the Big 1st Congressional candidates Tracey Mann and Dr. Bill Clifford at 8 p.m. 

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. in the hospital pavilion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573683238540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Republican Party clarified the format for the upcoming forum Tuesday night at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.The July 14th event will be for a debate between Senator Ed Berger and Dr. Mark Steffen, candidates for State Senate district 34 at 7 p.m. &amp; the Big 1st Congressional candidates Tracey Mann and Dr. Bill Clifford at 8 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. in the hospital pavilion.

Format clarified for pair of Republican debates Tuesday

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board will have a long list of things to take care of to kick off the new fiscal year on Monday.&nbsp;

The board will go through the usual new year items, including establishing funds for all schools along with committee and staff appointments.

The board will also go over numerous employment matters and hold several executive sessions for personnel. Some action may be taken on those matters.

Finally, the board will go over supplemental and services contracts for the next school year and approve a memorandum of understanding with Horizons Mental Health Center.

Monday’s meeting of the Buhler USD 313 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the Buhler High School Library.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579794980969.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board will have a long list of things to take care of to kick off the new fiscal year on Monday.&nbsp;The board will go through the usual new year items, including establishing funds for all schools along with committee and staff appointments.The board will also go over numerous employment matters and hold several executive sessions for personnel. Some action may be taken on those matters.Finally, the board will go over supplemental and services contracts for the next school year and approve a memorandum of understanding with Horizons Mental Health Center.Monday’s meeting of the Buhler USD 313 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the Buhler High School Library.

Buhler USD 313 meets to start new business year Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Friday brought some good news for Hutchinson motorists. The intersection of 11th and Main is open again as the North Main projects moved further south.&nbsp;

Work over the next week will include new sidewalks between 11th and 12th Avenues, and new sewer line work between 11th and 10th. Work will then proceed south between 10th and 8th Avenue. Access to Main will be restricted in those areas.&nbsp;

Most of the work will be on the west side of Main and traffic will be restricted in those areas. The west intersection of 9th and Main is now closed.

If you need any information on this or any other city street project contact Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594397211000.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Friday brought some good news for Hutchinson motorists. The intersection of 11th and Main is open again as the North Main projects moved further south.&nbsp;Work over the next week will include new sidewalks between 11th and 12th Avenues, and new sewer line work between 11th and 10th. Work will then proceed south between 10th and 8th Avenue. Access to Main will be restricted in those areas.&nbsp;Most of the work will be on the west side of Main and traffic will be restricted in those areas. The west intersection of 9th and Main is now closed.If you need any information on this or any other city street project contact Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

11th and Main now open

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is further altering its events schedule in the wake of the pandemic.

The Chamber announced Friday that its July 15 luncheon will now be held on Zoom instead of in person. The event was scheduled for the Crystal Ballroom.

The event is scheduled for noon and with Kansas Gas Service as the host. The speaker will be Scott Sewell with Kansas Main Street.

Registration can be done online at <a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/VirtualMembership%20Luncheon%20%20Sponsored%20by%20Kansas%20Gas%20Service-6416/details">hutchchamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is further altering its events schedule in the wake of the pandemic.The Chamber announced Friday that its July 15 luncheon will now be held on Zoom instead of in person. The event was scheduled for the Crystal Ballroom.The event is scheduled for noon and with Kansas Gas Service as the host. The speaker will be Scott Sewell with Kansas Main Street.Registration can be done online at <a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/VirtualMembership%20Luncheon%20%20Sponsored%20by%20Kansas%20Gas%20Service-6416/details">hutchchamber.com</a>.

Chamber lunch event will be on Zoom

KINGMAN COUNTY—Residents in Kingman living with a water emergency this week received good news Friday morning. The Kansas Department of Health lifted the do not drink order.

The state issued the order due to high levels of nitrate in secondary water sources activated to meet the needs of the community, according to a media release from the city.

The secondary water source is not longer in use and and all other conditions that placed the water system at risk of contamination are resolved, according to the KDHE.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594053743620.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN COUNTY—Residents in Kingman living with a water emergency this week received good news Friday morning. The Kansas Department of Health lifted the do not drink order.The state issued the order due to high levels of nitrate in secondary water sources activated to meet the needs of the community, according to a media release from the city.The secondary water source is not longer in use and and all other conditions that placed the water system at risk of contamination are resolved, according to the KDHE.

6 day water emergency in Kingman is over

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

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

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

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man wanted for a parole violation was arrested in Hutchinson after he fled from law enforcement Thursday night.

Gabriel Sanchez is being held on a bond of $29,300 on numerous counts including flee and elude, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, and criminal damage to property.

According to police, Sanchez was spotted in the 500 block of E. Avenue A around 9 p.m. When authorities tried to take him into custody he got in a vehicle and tried to flee. Sanchez allegedly rammed a patrol officer’s vehicle and drove at two police officers before leaving the area. The chase wound its way from Avenue A into South Hutchinson before heading back into the city.&nbsp;

The chase ended when Sanchez lost control of the truck he was driving and crashed at the intersection of Sherman and Severance where he was taken into custody.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594397442656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man wanted for a parole violation was arrested in Hutchinson after he fled from law enforcement Thursday night.Gabriel Sanchez is being held on a bond of $29,300 on numerous counts including flee and elude, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, and criminal damage to property.According to police, Sanchez was spotted in the 500 block of E. Avenue A around 9 p.m. When authorities tried to take him into custody he got in a vehicle and tried to flee. Sanchez allegedly rammed a patrol officer’s vehicle and drove at two police officers before leaving the area. The chase wound its way from Avenue A into South Hutchinson before heading back into the city.&nbsp;The chase ended when Sanchez lost control of the truck he was driving and crashed at the intersection of Sherman and Severance where he was taken into custody.There were no injuries reported.

Hutchinson man arrested after chase through the city

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce is asking members to take a survey regarding the use of masks during this pandemic life we live in. The survey will cover the issue of mandated wearing of masks in Reno County.&nbsp;

No such order exists at this time although the Governor signed an executive order that masks be worn when out in public. The chamber stated they would like to hear from the business community on their opinions on this issue.&nbsp;

With Kelly's recent executive order, mask-wearing has become a debated topic of business owners and communities across Kansas. The chamber says they’ve not taken an official position on the issue, but are requiring employees to wear masks when walking throughout the office and interacting with the public.

The survey can be found at <a href="http://hutchchamber.com">hutchchamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce is asking members to take a survey regarding the use of masks during this pandemic life we live in. The survey will cover the issue of mandated wearing of masks in Reno County.&nbsp;No such order exists at this time although the Governor signed an executive order that masks be worn when out in public. The chamber stated they would like to hear from the business community on their opinions on this issue.&nbsp;With Kelly's recent executive order, mask-wearing has become a debated topic of business owners and communities across Kansas. The chamber says they’ve not taken an official position on the issue, but are requiring employees to wear masks when walking throughout the office and interacting with the public.The survey can be found at <a href="http://hutchchamber.com">hutchchamber.com</a>.

Chamber offers survey on mask wearing

NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department, in consultation with Public Health Officer Dr. Doyle Detweiler, has identified community spread of COVID-19 in Harvey County.

Community spread means individuals have been infected with COVID-19 in the area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.

“We did not determine this lightly. The Health Department has worked meticulously to verify the sources of exposure in the majority of our cases,” Detweiler said. “However, as cases have increased, so have the number of cases where we cannot definitively determine a transmission method for COVID-19.”

Harvey County has had 63 COVID-19 cases to date, including 59 confirmed and four probable cases. There have been 47 new confirmed cases over the past three weeks.

Of the 63 total cases, 18 have an unknown source of exposure, or 29 percent.

“Community spread isn’t a reason to panic, but it does justify a sense of urgency in our communities,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “It’s an opportunity for each of us to renew our personal commitments to the precautions that worked so well early on for our county. COVID-19 is in our county, and each of us needs to respond accordingly.”

The Health Department continues to adamantly support taking preventative steps to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19. That includes frequent hand washing or using hand sanitizer, practicing social distancing, and wearing a face cover when social distance cannot be maintained.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593790914635.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department, in consultation with Public Health Officer Dr. Doyle Detweiler, has identified community spread of COVID-19 in Harvey County.Community spread means individuals have been infected with COVID-19 in the area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.“We did not determine this lightly. The Health Department has worked meticulously to verify the sources of exposure in the majority of our cases,” Detweiler said. “However, as cases have increased, so have the number of cases where we cannot definitively determine a transmission method for COVID-19.”Harvey County has had 63 COVID-19 cases to date, including 59 confirmed and four probable cases. There have been 47 new confirmed cases over the past three weeks.Of the 63 total cases, 18 have an unknown source of exposure, or 29 percent.“Community spread isn’t a reason to panic, but it does justify a sense of urgency in our communities,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “It’s an opportunity for each of us to renew our personal commitments to the precautions that worked so well early on for our county. COVID-19 is in our county, and each of us needs to respond accordingly.”The Health Department continues to adamantly support taking preventative steps to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19. That includes frequent hand washing or using hand sanitizer, practicing social distancing, and wearing a face cover when social distance cannot be maintained.

Harvey County identifies community spread of COVID-19


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti sees the upcoming fall season as something of grave concern if people do not make personal choices to slow the spread of COVID-19.

"For the mainstay of the mortalities that we've seen in the nation and in the state, underlying conditions are a significant indicator of the potential of COVID enacting a fatality," Baldetti said. 

Baldetti's concern is that even if there aren't other comorbidities, we could be facing multiple respiratory threats once the weather cools.

"The concern is not that COVID-19 as a viral body itself is going to enact widespread death," Baldetti said. "That isn't the concern, but what needs to be understood is that SARS-CoV-2 virus, the way it impacts the human body, it is an immunoparalyzing viral body."

Once we're into flu and pneumonia season, the multiple threats could cause further problems, if COVID-19 isn't stopped now.

"Simply because you contract SARS-CoV-2 virus, doesn't mean you cannot contract anything else," Baldetti said. "As such, I would hope that people understand the implications of that. Having a large amount of people infected with this virus at a time when we have other seasonal bacterial and viral infections floating around, I hope that impresses upon people, how potentially dangerous the fall and winter can be if we do not mitigate the spread now."

Baldetti believes that any talk of future shutdowns, if they even come up, will be political in nature. Baldetti believes that should not be the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589983765832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti sees the upcoming fall season as something of grave concern if people do not make personal choices to slow the spread of COVID-19."For the mainstay of the mortalities that we've seen in the nation and in the state, underlying conditions are a significant indicator of the potential of COVID enacting a fatality," Baldetti said. Baldetti's concern is that even if there aren't other comorbidities, we could be facing multiple respiratory threats once the weather cools."The concern is not that COVID-19 as a viral body itself is going to enact widespread death," Baldetti said. "That isn't the concern, but what needs to be understood is that SARS-CoV-2 virus, the way it impacts the human body, it is an immunoparalyzing viral body."Once we're into flu and pneumonia season, the multiple threats could cause further problems, if COVID-19 isn't stopped now."Simply because you contract SARS-CoV-2 virus, doesn't mean you cannot contract anything else," Baldetti said. "As such, I would hope that people understand the implications of that. Having a large amount of people infected with this virus at a time when we have other seasonal bacterial and viral infections floating around, I hope that impresses upon people, how potentially dangerous the fall and winter can be if we do not mitigate the spread now."Baldetti believes that any talk of future shutdowns, if they even come up, will be political in nature. Baldetti believes that should not be the case.

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