
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Former Kansas Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann ran for Congress once before in 2010, but now he's got more experience as he looks at the Big First seat in 2020.

"Politics were off my radar, but they got on my radar in a big way when I was appointed by Jeff Colyer to serve as his lieutenant governor," Mann said. "I served as the 50th lieutenant governor of Kansas. That put politics back on my radar, and now, with the seat opening with Roger Marshall running for the U.S. Senate, I decided to run for this open Congressional seat here in the Big First."

Mann grew up on a farm near Quinter, which he believes gives him the perspective needed to represent the district's agricultural interests.

"Agriculture is the biggest driver of our economy in the Big First," Mann said. "Hutch, Salina, McPherson also are impacted by commodity prices. When commodity prices are high, when agriculture does well, there's more money to spend on Main Street in Reno County and across the district."

It's vitally important, in Mann's opinion, that the Big First's representative be on the House Agriculture committee.

"I think we'd be amazed to know how many members of the House Ag committee have never really toured a modern farm today, that really understand where their meat comes from, where their products come from," Mann said. "I think, through this COVID thing, I think a lot of people in urban areas of our country have been so used to going to the grocery stores and having fewer worries that there will be everything on the shelf. I think there's an increased appreciation for farmers and ranchers and I would like to carry that momentum to the House Ag committee."

Mann was endorsed recently by the Kansas Farm Bureau for the First District's Republican nomination.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591976850719.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Former Kansas Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann ran for Congress once before in 2010, but now he's got more experience as he looks at the Big First seat in 2020."Politics were off my radar, but they got on my radar in a big way when I was appointed by Jeff Colyer to serve as his lieutenant governor," Mann said. "I served as the 50th lieutenant governor of Kansas. That put politics back on my radar, and now, with the seat opening with Roger Marshall running for the U.S. Senate, I decided to run for this open Congressional seat here in the Big First."Mann grew up on a farm near Quinter, which he believes gives him the perspective needed to represent the district's agricultural interests."Agriculture is the biggest driver of our economy in the Big First," Mann said. "Hutch, Salina, McPherson also are impacted by commodity prices. When commodity prices are high, when agriculture does well, there's more money to spend on Main Street in Reno County and across the district."It's vitally important, in Mann's opinion, that the Big First's representative be on the House Agriculture committee."I think we'd be amazed to know how many members of the House Ag committee have never really toured a modern farm today, that really understand where their meat comes from, where their products come from," Mann said. "I think, through this COVID thing, I think a lot of people in urban areas of our country have been so used to going to the grocery stores and having fewer worries that there will be everything on the shelf. I think there's an increased appreciation for farmers and ranchers and I would like to carry that momentum to the House Ag committee."Mann was endorsed recently by the Kansas Farm Bureau for the First District's Republican nomination.

Mann more experienced for this Big First run

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — StartUp Hutch, formerly known as The Quest Center, announced Friday the addition of five new members to its board of directors. The new additions are Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti, Scott Cooley of Heartland Credit Union, Eric Spurgeon with Tarhun 3D, Anna Woods of SheStrength and Melinda Young from Bretz &amp; Young Injury Lawyers.

StartUp Hutch fosters an entrepreneur community through online and in-person activities and helps entrepreneurs navigate the business start-up process. It also provides services such as loan assistance, business plan review and succession planning.&nbsp;

“Our new board members bring diverse business experiences and will be key in helping us set the tone for our new direction,” Jackson Swearer, StartUp Hutch program director and entrepreneur navigator, said. “They understand if Reno County wants to grow start-up businesses, it’s going to take many groups coming together with a common goal and I believe we have a great team assembled to do this important work.”

Other board members include Daniel Friesen, board chair, IdeaTek; Jeni Bryan, vice-chair, Jackson Meat; and Julia Doerksen, treasurer, First National Bank of Hutchinson.

For more information and entrepreneurship resources, visit <a href="http://StartUpHutch.com">StartUpHutch.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591998538579.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — StartUp Hutch, formerly known as The Quest Center, announced Friday the addition of five new members to its board of directors. The new additions are Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti, Scott Cooley of Heartland Credit Union, Eric Spurgeon with Tarhun 3D, Anna Woods of SheStrength and Melinda Young from Bretz &amp; Young Injury Lawyers.StartUp Hutch fosters an entrepreneur community through online and in-person activities and helps entrepreneurs navigate the business start-up process. It also provides services such as loan assistance, business plan review and succession planning.&nbsp;“Our new board members bring diverse business experiences and will be key in helping us set the tone for our new direction,” Jackson Swearer, StartUp Hutch program director and entrepreneur navigator, said. “They understand if Reno County wants to grow start-up businesses, it’s going to take many groups coming together with a common goal and I believe we have a great team assembled to do this important work.”Other board members include Daniel Friesen, board chair, IdeaTek; Jeni Bryan, vice-chair, Jackson Meat; and Julia Doerksen, treasurer, First National Bank of Hutchinson.For more information and entrepreneurship resources, visit <a href="http://StartUpHutch.com">StartUpHutch.com</a>.

StartUp Hutch announces new board members

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will hold its regular meeting on Monday.

The Board will go over several maintenance issues including the purchase of HVAC units for the middle school cafeteria, foyer and band room along with the Nickerson Elementary School safe room. The work will cost the district $23,300.

Also Monday the Board will consider extending Dr. Jeanne Strohs contract through the end of July. Stroh has been the interim Superintendent for Dr. Dawn Johnson while she attends the Military College in Washington DC.

And the District will go over several personnel matters including salary increases for classified staff.

Monday’s meeting fo the Nickerson School Board begins at 7 p.m. at the district offices at 4501 West 4th Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943325915.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will hold its regular meeting on Monday.The Board will go over several maintenance issues including the purchase of HVAC units for the middle school cafeteria, foyer and band room along with the Nickerson Elementary School safe room. The work will cost the district $23,300.Also Monday the Board will consider extending Dr. Jeanne Strohs contract through the end of July. Stroh has been the interim Superintendent for Dr. Dawn Johnson while she attends the Military College in Washington DC.And the District will go over several personnel matters including salary increases for classified staff.Monday’s meeting fo the Nickerson School Board begins at 7 p.m. at the district offices at 4501 West 4th Avenue.

USD 309 to consider contract extension for Stroh

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man who was arrested for embezzling more than $380,000 from a local company will spend the next 11 years in prison after his sentencing Friday afternoon in Reno County District Court.

Fifty-four-year-old Anthony Mills could have been looking at even more time, but the sentence will run concurrent to a lengthy prison sentence he will serve in Colorado for a previous crime involving an unlawful sexual relationship.

Mills was convicted of embezzlement and computer crimes after taking the money from B &amp; B Hydraulics. The defense in the case had asked for community corrections, saying it would allow Mills to pay restitution in the case. But the prosecution noted the representatives of B &amp; B felt that any chance of meaningful restitution was not likely to happen and asked for the maximum sentence.

It was back in March that law enforcement learned Mills had used company funds to pay personal debts from 2017 to the present. Through the investigation, detectives determined that the total loss was approximately $384,000 over a three-year period.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mills was also sentenced for failing to register as an offender from his Colorado case. In arguing against any community corrections for Mills, the prosecution noted that Mills was still having contact with the victim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579293294698.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man who was arrested for embezzling more than $380,000 from a local company will spend the next 11 years in prison after his sentencing Friday afternoon in Reno County District Court.Fifty-four-year-old Anthony Mills could have been looking at even more time, but the sentence will run concurrent to a lengthy prison sentence he will serve in Colorado for a previous crime involving an unlawful sexual relationship.Mills was convicted of embezzlement and computer crimes after taking the money from B &amp; B Hydraulics. The defense in the case had asked for community corrections, saying it would allow Mills to pay restitution in the case. But the prosecution noted the representatives of B &amp; B felt that any chance of meaningful restitution was not likely to happen and asked for the maximum sentence.It was back in March that law enforcement learned Mills had used company funds to pay personal debts from 2017 to the present. Through the investigation, detectives determined that the total loss was approximately $384,000 over a three-year period.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mills was also sentenced for failing to register as an offender from his Colorado case. In arguing against any community corrections for Mills, the prosecution noted that Mills was still having contact with the victim.

Man sentenced to nearly 11 years in embezzlement case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the issues that has popped up during discussion between the NAACP and Hutchinson police in building better relations is the lack of relationships with youth.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson NAACP Youth saw a need for events where youth can build relationships with and express their concerns with HPD in a relaxed environment.&nbsp;

So, they will be hosting what they are calling the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/655475595183049/">Bridgebuilders Barbecue</a>. The event is being held with the College Youth division of the NAACP, Hutch in Harmony, HPD and the City of Hutchinson all hosting. The event will be held on June 26 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Rice Park.

HPD expressed hope that the event can be a springboard for the creation of a youth advisory group for the department. All will happen around activities and delicious barbecue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591092788258.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the issues that has popped up during discussion between the NAACP and Hutchinson police in building better relations is the lack of relationships with youth.&nbsp;The Hutchinson NAACP Youth saw a need for events where youth can build relationships with and express their concerns with HPD in a relaxed environment.&nbsp;So, they will be hosting what they are calling the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/655475595183049/">Bridgebuilders Barbecue</a>. The event is being held with the College Youth division of the NAACP, Hutch in Harmony, HPD and the City of Hutchinson all hosting. The event will be held on June 26 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Rice Park.HPD expressed hope that the event can be a springboard for the creation of a youth advisory group for the department. All will happen around activities and delicious barbecue.

Local agencies and police to come together for barbecue

HAVEN, Kan. — Haven and several other small communities in the area are going to feel the financial hit handed to them by Evergy.

Haven gets its power from the Kansas Power Pool and then sets its rates to city residents.&nbsp;

Evergy is in the process of building a new substation near Burrton replacing one that has past its life cycle. But that means the utility is passing the cost of building on to customers and those in the power pool.

Evergy notified Haven that their monthly Wholesale Distribution Service Charge will increase from $4,000.00 per month to $11,839 per month. The increase amounts to $94-thousand per year. The increase also affects the town of Mt. Hope.

City Clerk Leslie Atherton has urged the City Council to not pass the increase onto residents for now. The changes take effect next year which could give the community some time to prepare for the increase while dealing with budget shortfalls connected to the pandemic.

The new substation is expected to be online by the end of the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090767638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — Haven and several other small communities in the area are going to feel the financial hit handed to them by Evergy.Haven gets its power from the Kansas Power Pool and then sets its rates to city residents.&nbsp;Evergy is in the process of building a new substation near Burrton replacing one that has past its life cycle. But that means the utility is passing the cost of building on to customers and those in the power pool.Evergy notified Haven that their monthly Wholesale Distribution Service Charge will increase from $4,000.00 per month to $11,839 per month. The increase amounts to $94-thousand per year. The increase also affects the town of Mt. Hope.City Clerk Leslie Atherton has urged the City Council to not pass the increase onto residents for now. The changes take effect next year which could give the community some time to prepare for the increase while dealing with budget shortfalls connected to the pandemic.The new substation is expected to be online by the end of the year.

Haven facing service increase from Evergy

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In response to challenges presented by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees approved a revised calendar for the fall 2020 semester at its June 11 meeting.&nbsp;

“We’ve been evaluating this opportunity or possibility for awhile,” college spokesperson Denny Stoecklein said. “We thought it would minimize the risk of having the students go home for Thanksgiving then come back to campus for two weeks.”

The revised calendar moves up the start date of classes to Aug. 12 from Aug. 19, it eliminates the scheduled Fall Break Day of Oct. 9 and moves Finals Week to the week of Nov. 30 instead of the previously-scheduled week of Dec. 7. Finals will be conducted online, eliminating the need for students to return to campus after Thanksgiving break. Stoecklein says, at this time, that is the only change to the calendar for the year.

“We thought it was best just to wrap up the face-to-face interactions before they would depart at Thanksgiving,” Stoecklein said. “That would give them an extended break for Christmas, but also not have that potential for going home and possibly being exposed to the virus and then coming back to campus.”&nbsp;

So far, the fall semester is the only change made by the college.

“There are no changes being planned for the spring semester,” Stoecklein said. “We anticipate coming back, we’re scheduled to come back, and moving forward with that.”

Stoecklein added that it’s only June and anything can change.

As far as athletics go, Stoecklein says they are in constant contact with the NJCAA to discuss the fall to winter sports such as basketball, which runs through the normal fall break and into the spring semester.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581541933395.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In response to challenges presented by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Hutchinson Community College Board of Trustees approved a revised calendar for the fall 2020 semester at its June 11 meeting.&nbsp;“We’ve been evaluating this opportunity or possibility for awhile,” college spokesperson Denny Stoecklein said. “We thought it would minimize the risk of having the students go home for Thanksgiving then come back to campus for two weeks.”The revised calendar moves up the start date of classes to Aug. 12 from Aug. 19, it eliminates the scheduled Fall Break Day of Oct. 9 and moves Finals Week to the week of Nov. 30 instead of the previously-scheduled week of Dec. 7. Finals will be conducted online, eliminating the need for students to return to campus after Thanksgiving break. Stoecklein says, at this time, that is the only change to the calendar for the year.“We thought it was best just to wrap up the face-to-face interactions before they would depart at Thanksgiving,” Stoecklein said. “That would give them an extended break for Christmas, but also not have that potential for going home and possibly being exposed to the virus and then coming back to campus.”&nbsp;So far, the fall semester is the only change made by the college.“There are no changes being planned for the spring semester,” Stoecklein said. “We anticipate coming back, we’re scheduled to come back, and moving forward with that.”Stoecklein added that it’s only June and anything can change.As far as athletics go, Stoecklein says they are in constant contact with the NJCAA to discuss the fall to winter sports such as basketball, which runs through the normal fall break and into the spring semester.

HutchCC revises fall semester schedule

HAVEN. Kan. — Two people were injured in an accident just after 5 p.m. Friday in Haven.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a pickup driven by 78-year-old Dale Hinshaw, of Benton, was&nbsp;southbound on Haven Road at the K96 intersection when he pulled into the path of a westbound car driven by 21-year-old Adrian Schonlau of Kingman.

EMS transported Hinshaw to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita and Schonlau was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. 

Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591395506998.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN. Kan. — Two people were injured in an accident just after 5 p.m. Friday in Haven.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a pickup driven by 78-year-old Dale Hinshaw, of Benton, was&nbsp;southbound on Haven Road at the K96 intersection when he pulled into the path of a westbound car driven by 21-year-old Adrian Schonlau of Kingman.EMS transported Hinshaw to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita and Schonlau was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after Reno County crash

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. — To help families get ready for the first days of school on Aug. 19 and 20, two vaccination clinics are planned by Hutchinson Public Schools for June and July.

These clinics are being held in collaboration with the Reno County Health Department. The clinics will be:

Friday, June 19: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Hutchinson High School’s Salthawk Activity Center 

Friday, July 24: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. HHS Salthawk Activity Center

The list of vaccinations required can be found at <a href="http://tinyurl.com/shots2020">tinyurl.com/shots2020</a>.

The goal of the clinics is to provide an opportunity for incoming seventh-grade students and incoming juniors at HHS to receive required vaccinations

To receive vaccinations at shot clinics, parents must fill out the form on the district site <a href="http://tinyurl.com/usd308shots">tinyurl.com/usd308shots</a>. The form will also be available to fill out on-site. Parents need to have their insurance card.

At the vaccination clinics, face masks are recommended but not required as part of COVID-19 precautions. Families are asked to practice social distancing and only the student receiving the shot and a guardian may come into the SAC.

Student immunizations must be on record with the school nurse before the first day of school to avoid exclusion. Students who have received immunizations need to make sure their provider has shared that information with the student’s school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668902902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — To help families get ready for the first days of school on Aug. 19 and 20, two vaccination clinics are planned by Hutchinson Public Schools for June and July.These clinics are being held in collaboration with the Reno County Health Department. The clinics will be:Friday, June 19: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Hutchinson High School’s Salthawk Activity Center Friday, July 24: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. HHS Salthawk Activity CenterThe list of vaccinations required can be found at <a href="http://tinyurl.com/shots2020">tinyurl.com/shots2020</a>.The goal of the clinics is to provide an opportunity for incoming seventh-grade students and incoming juniors at HHS to receive required vaccinationsTo receive vaccinations at shot clinics, parents must fill out the form on the district site <a href="http://tinyurl.com/usd308shots">tinyurl.com/usd308shots</a>. The form will also be available to fill out on-site. Parents need to have their insurance card.At the vaccination clinics, face masks are recommended but not required as part of COVID-19 precautions. Families are asked to practice social distancing and only the student receiving the shot and a guardian may come into the SAC.Student immunizations must be on record with the school nurse before the first day of school to avoid exclusion. Students who have received immunizations need to make sure their provider has shared that information with the student’s school.

USD 308 offering vaccination clinics

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three area lakes are under blue-green algae advisories this week by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Cheney Reservoir, Kanopolis Reservoir and Marion County Lake are all under a blue-green algae watch, which means the algae is present in at least one part of the lake. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. Contact with water in those areas should be avoided, including pets. Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.&nbsp;

Boating and fishing are safe, however, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals and anglers should thoroughly clean fish with potable water and eat fillet portions only. The algae looks like scum, or a paint-like surface, on the water that’s bright green.&nbsp;

Pet owners should be aware that it can be fatal to animals to swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588189401552.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three area lakes are under blue-green algae advisories this week by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.Cheney Reservoir, Kanopolis Reservoir and Marion County Lake are all under a blue-green algae watch, which means the algae is present in at least one part of the lake. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. Contact with water in those areas should be avoided, including pets. Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.&nbsp;Boating and fishing are safe, however, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals and anglers should thoroughly clean fish with potable water and eat fillet portions only. The algae looks like scum, or a paint-like surface, on the water that’s bright green.&nbsp;Pet owners should be aware that it can be fatal to animals to swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore.&nbsp;

Area lakes affected by blue-green algae


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti says that professionals in his office are the only ones doing contact tracing right now.

"Reno County has not hired any external case contact tracers," Baldetti said. "All of that work is done right now, at the Health Department, by either an academically trained epidemiologist who, their actual schooling, their bachelor's and master's degree work is in disease gestation and investigation, as well as clinical professionals, generally nursing staff."

It wouldn't take that many cases to overwhelm the current staff, however.

"Near the beginning of this process, we were looking at, kind of, modeling," Baldetti said. "We thought it was reasonable to have, if we had three to four active cases, with the expectation of ten to twelve contacts for each one of those active cases, that might be somewhere in the realm of, kind of maxing out. If those ten to twelve are direct, high exposure contacts, we need to make contact almost daily. You can see how that exponentiates pretty quickly."

The concern expressed in legislation was that community members may have to be enlisted to do some contact tracing and they wouldn't be familiar with the privacy requirements typical in medicine.

"Reno County Health Department does have one trained epidemiologist," Baldetti said. "We also have, at minimum, five overflow nurses. It would have to be quite a spike in terms of the activity we've had so far."

As of Friday morning, there are only two active cases in the county and they are related.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589983765832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti says that professionals in his office are the only ones doing contact tracing right now."Reno County has not hired any external case contact tracers," Baldetti said. "All of that work is done right now, at the Health Department, by either an academically trained epidemiologist who, their actual schooling, their bachelor's and master's degree work is in disease gestation and investigation, as well as clinical professionals, generally nursing staff."It wouldn't take that many cases to overwhelm the current staff, however."Near the beginning of this process, we were looking at, kind of, modeling," Baldetti said. "We thought it was reasonable to have, if we had three to four active cases, with the expectation of ten to twelve contacts for each one of those active cases, that might be somewhere in the realm of, kind of maxing out. If those ten to twelve are direct, high exposure contacts, we need to make contact almost daily. You can see how that exponentiates pretty quickly."The concern expressed in legislation was that community members may have to be enlisted to do some contact tracing and they wouldn't be familiar with the privacy requirements typical in medicine."Reno County Health Department does have one trained epidemiologist," Baldetti said. "We also have, at minimum, five overflow nurses. It would have to be quite a spike in terms of the activity we've had so far."As of Friday morning, there are only two active cases in the county and they are related.

Baldetti: Contact tracing done by current Health Department employees


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As you look ahead to your Independence Day celebration, it's important to note that pets can be terrified by the sounds of fireworks.

"The big thundering boom that rattles the windows and shakes the house is perceived as a definite threat," said Jon Austin, DVM with Hutchinson Small Animal Hospital. "It's probably a wonderment from our pets as to what on earth is that, some of them respond poorly. They have anxiety."

Your pet's reactions may be different, depending on the fireworks used.

"Not only hiding or retreating to the basement, but trying to get away from the sound or hiding under a bed, that kind of response," Austin said. "I have experience with owners whose dogs panic and try to run. They try to escape and they'll use their claws and their teeth to chew through drywall and a door. In the past, I've had to suture the tendons and blood vessels on the back side of the front legs of a Great Dane who tried to get through the high window in a garage door to escape."

If you know your pet is susceptible to panic, talk with your vet ahead of time and get some medication.

"We dispense a lot of medication during this time, several medications that help with animals and calming," Austin said. "You can use something like an old-fashioned sedative tranquilizer like acepromazine. That's fairly popular."

There are other alternatives like CBD oil and essential oils that some pet owners use, but its best to talk to your veterinarian before the holiday to discuss a strategy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577837782536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;As you look ahead to your Independence Day celebration, it's important to note that pets can be terrified by the sounds of fireworks."The big thundering boom that rattles the windows and shakes the house is perceived as a definite threat," said Jon Austin, DVM with Hutchinson Small Animal Hospital. "It's probably a wonderment from our pets as to what on earth is that, some of them respond poorly. They have anxiety."Your pet's reactions may be different, depending on the fireworks used."Not only hiding or retreating to the basement, but trying to get away from the sound or hiding under a bed, that kind of response," Austin said. "I have experience with owners whose dogs panic and try to run. They try to escape and they'll use their claws and their teeth to chew through drywall and a door. In the past, I've had to suture the tendons and blood vessels on the back side of the front legs of a Great Dane who tried to get through the high window in a garage door to escape."If you know your pet is susceptible to panic, talk with your vet ahead of time and get some medication."We dispense a lot of medication during this time, several medications that help with animals and calming," Austin said. "You can use something like an old-fashioned sedative tranquilizer like acepromazine. That's fairly popular."There are other alternatives like CBD oil and essential oils that some pet owners use, but its best to talk to your veterinarian before the holiday to discuss a strategy.

Talk to your vet in advance of fireworks

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bobbie Sauer with the Firehouse Cafe announced on Facebook Thursday that the business will not reopen.

The post said, "It is very difficult for me to announce as we have been in the community for so long, but the cafe will not be re-opening. After many years of hard yet rewarding work, I will be retiring. Words cannot describe how thankful I am for all of the support Hutchinson has given to me and my business. My life and the lives of my family have been greatly changed due to the friendships we've formed and people we have met over the years having the cafe. It has been a wonderful experience and I wouldn't change it for the world. Please continue to support other local businesses in Hutchinson, they cannot survive without you. Thank you all."

The cafe announced its closure May 6, due to difficulties with not having enough space to take all necessary precautions for COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591917994092.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bobbie Sauer with the Firehouse Cafe announced on Facebook Thursday that the business will not reopen.The post said, "It is very difficult for me to announce as we have been in the community for so long, but the cafe will not be re-opening. After many years of hard yet rewarding work, I will be retiring. Words cannot describe how thankful I am for all of the support Hutchinson has given to me and my business. My life and the lives of my family have been greatly changed due to the friendships we've formed and people we have met over the years having the cafe. It has been a wonderful experience and I wouldn't change it for the world. Please continue to support other local businesses in Hutchinson, they cannot survive without you. Thank you all."The cafe announced its closure May 6, due to difficulties with not having enough space to take all necessary precautions for COVID-19.

Firehouse Cafe will not reopen

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Planning Commission will take comments and testimony from the public regarding future zoning regulations for wind farms and energy conversion regulations during its regular meeting Thursday, June 18.

Approval to begin assessing the regulations was given during the last board meeting. So once again the public will share its thoughts on wind farms. All of this stems from efforts by NextEra to build a wind farm in southern Reno County. The proposal has been met with stiff opposition from area residents. Many want the county to pass regulations that would all but ban wind farms in the county. 

The company failed to get a conditional use permit by county commissioners when they could not reach a unanimous vote on the matter. Both the company and opponents of the wind farm are in the middle of several legal matters regarding the protest petitions that were signed by county residents.

The June 18 meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Reno County Courthouse Veterans Room.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587570739090.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Planning Commission will take comments and testimony from the public regarding future zoning regulations for wind farms and energy conversion regulations during its regular meeting Thursday, June 18.Approval to begin assessing the regulations was given during the last board meeting. So once again the public will share its thoughts on wind farms. All of this stems from efforts by NextEra to build a wind farm in southern Reno County. The proposal has been met with stiff opposition from area residents. Many want the county to pass regulations that would all but ban wind farms in the county. The company failed to get a conditional use permit by county commissioners when they could not reach a unanimous vote on the matter. Both the company and opponents of the wind farm are in the middle of several legal matters regarding the protest petitions that were signed by county residents.The June 18 meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Reno County Courthouse Veterans Room.

County to hold public discussion on wind farms June 18

YODER, Kan. — It took longer than expected, but KLETC's 264th Basic Training Class overcame unusual obstacles related to the pandemic and graduated this week.

Social distancing guidelines were observed at the ceremony which was held in front of KLETC faculty and staff in the Integrity Auditorium. Deputy Lauren Tucker of the Rooks County Sheriff’s Office was the graduating class president.

Two Hutchinson Police officers completed their training. They are Ross Allison and Kobe Brown. Angelique Collins and Bryce Kinsey also completed their training for the Newton Police Department, and Thomas Giordano also completed graduation and will work for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591889022503.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>YODER, Kan. — It took longer than expected, but KLETC's 264th Basic Training Class overcame unusual obstacles related to the pandemic and graduated this week.Social distancing guidelines were observed at the ceremony which was held in front of KLETC faculty and staff in the Integrity Auditorium. Deputy Lauren Tucker of the Rooks County Sheriff’s Office was the graduating class president.Two Hutchinson Police officers completed their training. They are Ross Allison and Kobe Brown. Angelique Collins and Bryce Kinsey also completed their training for the Newton Police Department, and Thomas Giordano also completed graduation and will work for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

KLETC gradates 264th class

NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 16th case of coronavirus, or COVID-19, in the county.

The confirmed case is a Harvey County woman in her 20s. Testing was completed by a private lab. The individual is in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the individual, as well as follow up on all contacts. She is the only known active case in Harvey County at this time.

The woman, a Diversicare employee, is part of a cluster of 22 cases announced on June 10 at the Diversicare of Haysville nursing facility. Additionally, part of her staff time is spent at the Diversicare of Sedgwick facility in Harvey County.

As a precaution, the Health Department today began swabbing all residents and employees of the Diversicare of Sedgwick facility to submit samples for COVID-19 testing. That includes about 75 combined residents and staff members.

Harvey County remains in Phase Three of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan through at least June 16. That phase includes restricting in-person visitation at long-term care facilities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584475841056.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 16th case of coronavirus, or COVID-19, in the county.The confirmed case is a Harvey County woman in her 20s. Testing was completed by a private lab. The individual is in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the individual, as well as follow up on all contacts. She is the only known active case in Harvey County at this time.The woman, a Diversicare employee, is part of a cluster of 22 cases announced on June 10 at the Diversicare of Haysville nursing facility. Additionally, part of her staff time is spent at the Diversicare of Sedgwick facility in Harvey County.As a precaution, the Health Department today began swabbing all residents and employees of the Diversicare of Sedgwick facility to submit samples for COVID-19 testing. That includes about 75 combined residents and staff members.Harvey County remains in Phase Three of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan through at least June 16. That phase includes restricting in-person visitation at long-term care facilities.

Latest Harvey Co. COVID-19 case tied to Haysville nursing home


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The national gas price average has jumped back over the $2 a gallon mark and prices are going up in Kansas, as well.

"Here in Kansas, we are at $1.86 today, which is up 15 cents in the past week," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "We're still 12th cheapest in the nation, which is good."

Reno County's average as of Thursday is $1.85. In Hutchinson, a lot of stations are at $1.89.

"We're seeing the highest demand since mid-March, when a lot of state's started issuing stay at home orders," Steward said. "That is definitely driving it."

As is typical in the summer, Steward expects prices to continue to rise.

"Last weekend, OPEC and some of its partners decided to extend their production cuts through July, which is keeping supply in check," Steward said. 

Steward expects to see Kansas gas prices get over $2 a gallon soon, which is still well below the average for this time of year nationally in the last five years. That average was $2.81.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577112566279.jpeg" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The national gas price average has jumped back over the $2 a gallon mark and prices are going up in Kansas, as well."Here in Kansas, we are at $1.86 today, which is up 15 cents in the past week," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "We're still 12th cheapest in the nation, which is good."Reno County's average as of Thursday is $1.85. In Hutchinson, a lot of stations are at $1.89."We're seeing the highest demand since mid-March, when a lot of state's started issuing stay at home orders," Steward said. "That is definitely driving it."As is typical in the summer, Steward expects prices to continue to rise."Last weekend, OPEC and some of its partners decided to extend their production cuts through July, which is keeping supply in check," Steward said. Steward expects to see Kansas gas prices get over $2 a gallon soon, which is still well below the average for this time of year nationally in the last five years. That average was $2.81.

Gas prices headed up, with $2 gas likely later this summer


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A Hutchinson woman hit a deer with her vehicle and was injured Thursday night.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, at 9:30 p.m. Thursday, deputies were dispatched to the 12600 Block of East Longview Road. 

Thirty-four-year-old Heather Stockton reported striking a deer with the vehicle she was driving, causing her driver's side airbag to deploy.

Stockton was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. A child in the backseat was not hurt.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A Hutchinson woman hit a deer with her vehicle and was injured Thursday night.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, at 9:30 p.m. Thursday, deputies were dispatched to the 12600 Block of East Longview Road. Thirty-four-year-old Heather Stockton reported striking a deer with the vehicle she was driving, causing her driver's side airbag to deploy.Stockton was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. A child in the backseat was not hurt.

Accident with deer sends one to hospital Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) today announced a $16,700 grant to Horizons Mental Health Center to assist Reno County residents who are homeless following discharge from the Larned State Hospital or a local jail.

Mike Garrett, Chief Executive Officer for Horizons, said the Interim Housing grant is designed to provide housing support for 90-days while the program participant works to secure permanent housing. “Participants in the program will receive temporary housing as well as intensive support from the staff at Horizons Mental Health Center,” Garrett said. “Throughout the years, Horizons Mental Health Center and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services have partnered in a number of programs to enhance our mission and the Interim Housing Grant is another excellent example of a program that will have a long-term positive impact on our community,” Garrett continued.

Tyler Vance, Department Head of Community Support Services for Horizons, said the grant is earmarked to serve Reno County residents who are active clients of Horizons Mental Health Center and meet the qualifying criteria. “The intensive supports are designed to help program participants become mentally healthy and financially stable,” Vance said. “Also, the ability to obtain stable housing helps to reduce recidivism in both the hospital and jail settings.”

Funding for an additional year of the program will be contingent on fund availability, grantee performance, and compliance with the grant terms and conditions.

Horizons Mental Health Center is an entity of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Other entities are Health-E-Quip, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and the Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) today announced a $16,700 grant to Horizons Mental Health Center to assist Reno County residents who are homeless following discharge from the Larned State Hospital or a local jail.Mike Garrett, Chief Executive Officer for Horizons, said the Interim Housing grant is designed to provide housing support for 90-days while the program participant works to secure permanent housing. “Participants in the program will receive temporary housing as well as intensive support from the staff at Horizons Mental Health Center,” Garrett said. “Throughout the years, Horizons Mental Health Center and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services have partnered in a number of programs to enhance our mission and the Interim Housing Grant is another excellent example of a program that will have a long-term positive impact on our community,” Garrett continued.Tyler Vance, Department Head of Community Support Services for Horizons, said the grant is earmarked to serve Reno County residents who are active clients of Horizons Mental Health Center and meet the qualifying criteria. “The intensive supports are designed to help program participants become mentally healthy and financially stable,” Vance said. “Also, the ability to obtain stable housing helps to reduce recidivism in both the hospital and jail settings.”Funding for an additional year of the program will be contingent on fund availability, grantee performance, and compliance with the grant terms and conditions.Horizons Mental Health Center is an entity of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Other entities are Health-E-Quip, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and the Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.

Horizons Mental Health Center announces state grant


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;COVID-19 should have minimal impact on primary elections in Reno County.

"We will actually hold everything the same way that we normally do," said, Jenna Fager, Deputy Election Officer. "If people are not wanting to go to the polling location, we do have voting by mail. We sent applications out for that. If you still want to go to the polls, then we will have everything. All the polling locations will be open. Our advance voting will be open as normal. We will have social distancing guidelines in place and we will be providing our board workers with the proper PPE to make sure everything stays sanitary."

Party changes for the purpose of the August primary needed to be made by June 1.

"If you are affiliated with the Democratic Party, you will get the Democratic ballot, if you're affiliated with the Republican Party, you will get the Republican ballot," Fager said. "If you are unaffiliated, you do still have the option to affiliate when you go to the polls on Election Day."

Advance voting starts July 15 in the Reno County Annex in the conference room. 

"We have not gotten our finalized list from the state yet," Fager said. "As soon as we do, we will be posting our sample ballot. You can actually look on our website at renogov.org and it will have a link that will take you straight to that."

The Primary Election is scheduled for August 4.

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;COVID-19 should have minimal impact on primary elections in Reno County."We will actually hold everything the same way that we normally do," said, Jenna Fager, Deputy Election Officer. "If people are not wanting to go to the polling location, we do have voting by mail. We sent applications out for that. If you still want to go to the polls, then we will have everything. All the polling locations will be open. Our advance voting will be open as normal. We will have social distancing guidelines in place and we will be providing our board workers with the proper PPE to make sure everything stays sanitary."Party changes for the purpose of the August primary needed to be made by June 1."If you are affiliated with the Democratic Party, you will get the Democratic ballot, if you're affiliated with the Republican Party, you will get the Republican ballot," Fager said. "If you are unaffiliated, you do still have the option to affiliate when you go to the polls on Election Day."Advance voting starts July 15 in the Reno County Annex in the conference room. "We have not gotten our finalized list from the state yet," Fager said. "As soon as we do, we will be posting our sample ballot. You can actually look on our website at renogov.org and it will have a link that will take you straight to that."The Primary Election is scheduled for August 4.

Primary elections running as normal in Reno County


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Facebook event for the latest Black Lives Matter protest in Hutchinson says it will be on Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Teresa Delgado is listed as the event host.

The event description says, "We are marching for ALL BLACK LIVES. We march for those who feel unheard, those who have been pushed out and those who have been discriminated against. We march for the countless black lives cut down by police brutality. Come out and bring awareness so that we can start to make the policy changes needed to end systematic racism. We will march from 23rd and plum on the side with a sidewalk down. We are peaceful as always and we will ignore anyone who comes out and has anything bad to say."

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Facebook event for the latest Black Lives Matter protest in Hutchinson says it will be on Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.Teresa Delgado is listed as the event host.The event description says, "We are marching for ALL BLACK LIVES. We march for those who feel unheard, those who have been pushed out and those who have been discriminated against. We march for the countless black lives cut down by police brutality. Come out and bring awareness so that we can start to make the policy changes needed to end systematic racism. We will march from 23rd and plum on the side with a sidewalk down. We are peaceful as always and we will ignore anyone who comes out and has anything bad to say."

Protest details found in Facebook event

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In the spirit of True Blue Excellence, the Hutchinson Community College Practical Nursing program faculty and staff made its 2020 pinning ceremony a traveling roadshow.

Since the traditional face-to-face commencement ceremony wasn’t able to take place because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the PN faculty and staff traveled 812 miles across Kansas to honor the PN Program Class 81 graduates.&nbsp;

“While the cancellation of the traditional ceremony was unfortunate, we felt this was a great opportunity to show our appreciation to our students as well as their family and friends for being there to support the students during these challenging times,” Sandy Pangburn, Practical Nursing program coordinator, said.

Over the course of four days, they visited each graduate's home to deliver their pins.

Local graduates included Alyssa Pankratz and Jessica Walters of Hutchinson, Alicia Hanson of McPherson, Randall Dreier of Newton, Paige Myers of Nickerson, and Misti McNamara of Halstead.

For more information on Hutchinson Community College’s Practical Nursing program, visit <a href="https://www.hutchcc.edu/pn">hutchcc.edu/pn</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591821788246.jpeg" alt="Jessica Walters celebrates her graduation from nursing school at HutchCC. HutchCC faculty traveled more than 800 miles to present nursing grads with their pins.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jessica Walters celebrates her graduation from nursing school at HutchCC. HutchCC faculty traveled more than 800 miles to present nursing grads with their pins.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In the spirit of True Blue Excellence, the Hutchinson Community College Practical Nursing program faculty and staff made its 2020 pinning ceremony a traveling roadshow.Since the traditional face-to-face commencement ceremony wasn’t able to take place because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the PN faculty and staff traveled 812 miles across Kansas to honor the PN Program Class 81 graduates.&nbsp;“While the cancellation of the traditional ceremony was unfortunate, we felt this was a great opportunity to show our appreciation to our students as well as their family and friends for being there to support the students during these challenging times,” Sandy Pangburn, Practical Nursing program coordinator, said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591821742829.jpeg" alt="Paige Myers of Nickerson poses with her pin presented by the faculty of the nursing department at HutchCC." />
 <figcaption>Paige Myers of Nickerson poses with her pin presented by the faculty of the nursing department at HutchCC.</figcaption>
 </figure>Over the course of four days, they visited each graduate's home to deliver their pins.Local graduates included Alyssa Pankratz and Jessica Walters of Hutchinson, Alicia Hanson of McPherson, Randall Dreier of Newton, Paige Myers of Nickerson, and Misti McNamara of Halstead.For more information on Hutchinson Community College’s Practical Nursing program, visit <a href="https://www.hutchcc.edu/pn">hutchcc.edu/pn</a>..

HutchCC nursing faculty hits the road to honor graduates

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One thing that has come out of the cry for defunding or reorganizing police departments is how it could affect future negotiations for contracts between cities and law enforcement.

“That is a very interesting dynamic that’s kind of occurred out of all of this,” Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper said. “We, of course, do have a contract between the FOP, the city and the police department. And those contracts do typically, for example, outline due process if I discipline an officer.”

Hooper was thrown into such a situation when he first arrived in Hutchinson because of an incident in which an officer was discovered driving impaired and was protected by fellow officers. Those officers were terminated and others disciplined because of that situation. Hooper says he would hope that, while officers need due process, he would have the support of the FOP if such a situation occurred.

“I would be adamantly opposed to any contract that would afford a bad police officer protection from being prosecuted or terminated,” Hooper stressed. “I think there’s a balance to be struck there.”

Hooper says police departments do face the possibility that an officer may do the wrong thing or lose their way, but he says one thing is for sure.&nbsp;

“There’s nobody that hates bad cops more than good cops. And I would like to think that if we had a bad cop here, I know my administration and myself would never stand behind them and I’d like to think that the FOP would not stand behind them either.”

Still, there are some issues that arise from new contracts that are affected by different-sized communities.

“I know those unions also get some pressure from the state and the bigger portion of the union to always defend the rights of the little guy . . . the rights of the officer,” Hooper said.

Hooper says that those who will negotiate the next contract for HPD will have to take all of those things under consideration.

“I do know, obviously, that the people individually here at the department that are bargaining for the rights of their officers. And I know their hearts and I know that they know right from wrong and would not stand behind a bad officer.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591820039142.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One thing that has come out of the cry for defunding or reorganizing police departments is how it could affect future negotiations for contracts between cities and law enforcement.“That is a very interesting dynamic that’s kind of occurred out of all of this,” Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper said. “We, of course, do have a contract between the FOP, the city and the police department. And those contracts do typically, for example, outline due process if I discipline an officer.”Hooper was thrown into such a situation when he first arrived in Hutchinson because of an incident in which an officer was discovered driving impaired and was protected by fellow officers. Those officers were terminated and others disciplined because of that situation. Hooper says he would hope that, while officers need due process, he would have the support of the FOP if such a situation occurred.“I would be adamantly opposed to any contract that would afford a bad police officer protection from being prosecuted or terminated,” Hooper stressed. “I think there’s a balance to be struck there.”Hooper says police departments do face the possibility that an officer may do the wrong thing or lose their way, but he says one thing is for sure.&nbsp;“There’s nobody that hates bad cops more than good cops. And I would like to think that if we had a bad cop here, I know my administration and myself would never stand behind them and I’d like to think that the FOP would not stand behind them either.”Still, there are some issues that arise from new contracts that are affected by different-sized communities.“I know those unions also get some pressure from the state and the bigger portion of the union to always defend the rights of the little guy . . . the rights of the officer,” Hooper said.Hooper says that those who will negotiate the next contract for HPD will have to take all of those things under consideration.“I do know, obviously, that the people individually here at the department that are bargaining for the rights of their officers. And I know their hearts and I know that they know right from wrong and would not stand behind a bad officer.”