Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

This year, this week, we start our 103rd year at Kansas Farm Bureau having just finished our business session at our 102nd annual meeting. One hundred and three is a big number and a lot of years. Dare I say no year has been quite like the one we just finished up. Note that I did not say it was our hardest year. It was not even our first pandemic at Kansas Farm Bureau, but it was a year a lot of us would like to move past and put in the rearview mirror.

Yes, there have been harder years in the ag community. Years of more extreme drought, heat, rain or pests. I am sure we have seen years with worse markets and more trying times. Maybe not, bad years and good years are so personal to each of us. If you were touched by COVID-19, 2020 may very well have been your worst year ever, and if that is the case, my heart goes out to you.

My point is 2020 was not a good year, and I am sure that most of us hope that 2021 will be a much better one. The one thing I do know is those of us in agriculture have learned to deal with adversity and keep moving forward. We know how to absorb the blow of a bad year and pick ourselves up and keep, keeping on. That is what we do, that is who we are and that is why agriculture is the backbone of the United States.

What will 2021 look like? Who knows? I have seen long-range forecasts, but I do not put much faith in them. As far as the pandemic goes, we have no idea, even the experts are split on what the next 12 months will look like. But I do know this. We will plant the next crop this spring, we will help new lambs, calves, pigs, goats, chickens and horses come into this world. We will persevere with the faith of a farmer and rancher because that is what we do.

We will go to the field and to the pasture with the same optimism that our parents and grandparents carried with them, even through the toughest of times. I also know Kansas Farm Bureau will be right there alongside us making sure our voices are heard in Washington D.C. and Topeka. That voice is one each of us have a note in, coming up from the grassroots and making sure those of us who feed the world are heard.

No, I had no idea what was ahead of us at this time last year, but we made it through it, and I have no idea what is ahead of us in 2021. We will change and adapt just like we have for the previous 102 years, and we can all be proud knowing that we are part of an organization leading the way when it comes to ensuring our farms and ranches survive and thrive no matter what the year brings.

"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 rancherThis year, this week, we start our 103rd year at Kansas Farm Bureau having just finished our business session at our 102nd annual meeting. One hundred and three is a big number and a lot of years. Dare I say no year has been quite like the one we just finished up. Note that I did not say it was our hardest year. It was not even our first pandemic at Kansas Farm Bureau, but it was a year a lot of us would like to move past and put in the rearview mirror.Yes, there have been harder years in the ag community. Years of more extreme drought, heat, rain or pests. I am sure we have seen years with worse markets and more trying times. Maybe not, bad years and good years are so personal to each of us. If you were touched by COVID-19, 2020 may very well have been your worst year ever, and if that is the case, my heart goes out to you.My point is 2020 was not a good year, and I am sure that most of us hope that 2021 will be a much better one. The one thing I do know is those of us in agriculture have learned to deal with adversity and keep moving forward. We know how to absorb the blow of a bad year and pick ourselves up and keep, keeping on. That is what we do, that is who we are and that is why agriculture is the backbone of the United States.What will 2021 look like? Who knows? I have seen long-range forecasts, but I do not put much faith in them. As far as the pandemic goes, we have no idea, even the experts are split on what the next 12 months will look like. But I do know this. We will plant the next crop this spring, we will help new lambs, calves, pigs, goats, chickens and horses come into this world. We will persevere with the faith of a farmer and rancher because that is what we do.We will go to the field and to the pasture with the same optimism that our parents and grandparents carried with them, even through the toughest of times. I also know Kansas Farm Bureau will be right there alongside us making sure our voices are heard in Washington D.C. and Topeka. That voice is one each of us have a note in, coming up from the grassroots and making sure those of us who feed the world are heard.No, I had no idea what was ahead of us at this time last year, but we made it through it, and I have no idea what is ahead of us in 2021. We will change and adapt just like we have for the previous 102 years, and we can all be proud knowing that we are part of an organization leading the way when it comes to ensuring our farms and ranches survive and thrive no matter what the year brings."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: Moving Forward

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Mark Tallman, Vice President for Advocacy with the Kansas Association of School Boards, knows that the cash balances that school districts carry are always going to be an issue with the Kansas Legislature as they try to make budget priorities. Tallman says there are three main reasons districts hang on to money.

"A big thing school districts, many, spend money on, is to make bond payments," Tallman said. "To do that, you collect the taxes in one fiscal year, at least in part, to make a payment the next year, so you have those kind of dollars on hand. Another reason is when you're saving up for an expense. Maybe instead of having a bond issue and having to go into debt and pay interest to repair your roofs, for example, or do something, many districts use their capital outlay fund to put money, or they put money in reserve or save up money for a new school bus purchase or to buy new textbooks on schedule. The final thing is simply contingencies. You want to have money so if you have an unexpected expense, or an unexpected drop in revenue, you have dollars available."

Government finance experts say those contingencies should account for about two months of the district's regular bills.

"The Legislature has not given any guidance as to what is too high or too low," Tallman said. "Ballpark numbers seem to be about where we would expect statewide, but there is a big difference. Some districts are much higher than what we might expect, and some are a bit lower. That's one of those local control issues."

Local control is something that is always an issue with the legislature, too.

"We don't believe there is anything to indicate that school district cash balances are unreasonable, but we acknowledge that is, in part, a judgment call. Our view is, if you're going to give that authority to local elected officials to make their own decisions, you're probably going to have to accept that you're not always going to agree with what those are. The question is, is there evidence that those decisions are so far out of bounds that there's a problem? We don't see that."

The legislature reconvenes with its new members in January.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Mark Tallman, Vice President for Advocacy with the Kansas Association of School Boards, knows that the cash balances that school districts carry are always going to be an issue with the Kansas Legislature as they try to make budget priorities. Tallman says there are three main reasons districts hang on to money."A big thing school districts, many, spend money on, is to make bond payments," Tallman said. "To do that, you collect the taxes in one fiscal year, at least in part, to make a payment the next year, so you have those kind of dollars on hand. Another reason is when you're saving up for an expense. Maybe instead of having a bond issue and having to go into debt and pay interest to repair your roofs, for example, or do something, many districts use their capital outlay fund to put money, or they put money in reserve or save up money for a new school bus purchase or to buy new textbooks on schedule. The final thing is simply contingencies. You want to have money so if you have an unexpected expense, or an unexpected drop in revenue, you have dollars available."Government finance experts say those contingencies should account for about two months of the district's regular bills."The Legislature has not given any guidance as to what is too high or too low," Tallman said. "Ballpark numbers seem to be about where we would expect statewide, but there is a big difference. Some districts are much higher than what we might expect, and some are a bit lower. That's one of those local control issues."Local control is something that is always an issue with the legislature, too."We don't believe there is anything to indicate that school district cash balances are unreasonable, but we acknowledge that is, in part, a judgment call. Our view is, if you're going to give that authority to local elected officials to make their own decisions, you're probably going to have to accept that you're not always going to agree with what those are. The question is, is there evidence that those decisions are so far out of bounds that there's a problem? We don't see that."The legislature reconvenes with its new members in January.

Tallman: School district balances appear okay at this point

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has some new statistics on aggressive driving that are worth mentioning.

"Regardless of gender, nearly eight in ten American drivers demonstrate aggressive behaviors when behind the wheel," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Speeding tops the list, with men being the biggest culprits, although women are not far behind in that category."

Let's be clear, AAA asked drivers if they went 15 miles per hour or more above the speed limit. This isn't accidentally setting things too high. It doesn't really save you much time, though. 

"Contrary to common perception, speeding does not really save a lot of time on the roads in most cases," Steward said. "The average amount saved in a five mile trip, for example, if you're driving 65 miles an hour in a 45 mile an hour zone, you're only saving 1.9 minutes."

Another situation where you may think you are saving time, but you could cost yourself much more is driving distracted.

"Far too many people are using their phones while they are driving," Steward said. "Those should be down in your console or out of reach. If you're looking at your phone and someone does pull out in front of you, whether they are driving aggressively or just inattentively or whatever the case might be, if you're looking down at your phone, you're not going to see that."

For more information on distracted driving, go to <a href="https://cluballiance.aaa.com/MemberNonMemberLanding?zip=67546&amp;stateprov=ks&amp;city=inman&amp;devicecd=PC">aaa.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607227807556.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has some new statistics on aggressive driving that are worth mentioning."Regardless of gender, nearly eight in ten American drivers demonstrate aggressive behaviors when behind the wheel," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Speeding tops the list, with men being the biggest culprits, although women are not far behind in that category."Let's be clear, AAA asked drivers if they went 15 miles per hour or more above the speed limit. This isn't accidentally setting things too high. It doesn't really save you much time, though. "Contrary to common perception, speeding does not really save a lot of time on the roads in most cases," Steward said. "The average amount saved in a five mile trip, for example, if you're driving 65 miles an hour in a 45 mile an hour zone, you're only saving 1.9 minutes."Another situation where you may think you are saving time, but you could cost yourself much more is driving distracted."Far too many people are using their phones while they are driving," Steward said. "Those should be down in your console or out of reach. If you're looking at your phone and someone does pull out in front of you, whether they are driving aggressively or just inattentively or whatever the case might be, if you're looking down at your phone, you're not going to see that."For more information on distracted driving, go to <a href="https://cluballiance.aaa.com/MemberNonMemberLanding?zip=67546&amp;stateprov=ks&amp;city=inman&amp;devicecd=PC">aaa.com.</a>

AAA: Lots of aggressive drivers out there

Update: According to an email from Shonda Arpin with Reno County, Tuesday's meeting of the Board of County Commissioners has been cancelled due to a lack of quorum.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners will meet on Tuesday. The lone item on the agenda is a request to rezone 14 acres of land near the intersection of Lorraine and East 43rd Avenue.

The request from the Jim Oswald Family Trust would rezone the parcel of land to agriculture, which would then tie into 27 adjacent acres of land under the zoning designation already.

Also Tuesday, the commission will get an update from Hutchinson Regional Medical Center regarding hospital capacity and the trends officials are seeing from President and CEO Ken Johnson. The board will also hear from Interim Health Department Director Karen Hammersmith regarding the latest information on the pandemic.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606245605566.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Update: According to an email from Shonda Arpin with Reno County, Tuesday's meeting of the Board of County Commissioners has been cancelled due to a lack of quorum.HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County commissioners will meet on Tuesday. The lone item on the agenda is a request to rezone 14 acres of land near the intersection of Lorraine and East 43rd Avenue.The request from the Jim Oswald Family Trust would rezone the parcel of land to agriculture, which would then tie into 27 adjacent acres of land under the zoning designation already.Also Tuesday, the commission will get an update from Hutchinson Regional Medical Center regarding hospital capacity and the trends officials are seeing from President and CEO Ken Johnson. The board will also hear from Interim Health Department Director Karen Hammersmith regarding the latest information on the pandemic.Tuesday’s meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Commission meeting canceled for Tuesday

Release from Hutchinson Fire Department

Hutchinson fire crews were busy early this morning.

They responded just before 3 a.m. to 413 Crescent Boulevard for a reported structure fire. The fire was located in the front living area of the home and extinguished quickly by fire crews.  The homeowner was alerted by audible devices within the home and made an attempt to extinguish the fire with a home fire extinguisher.  The homeowner escaped through an adjoining bedroom window to safety.  One animal did perish during the fire out of five total pets in the structure.  Fire damage was contained to the area of origin, however, smoke damage was present on the 1st level of the home.  Crews remained on scene for two hours conducting overhaul and investigation. The investigation determined the fire started in an electrical device in the living room. The homeowner was checked by Reno County EMS for smoke inhalation and was released on scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Fire Logo" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Fire Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Hutchinson Fire DepartmentHutchinson fire crews were busy early this morning.They responded just before 3 a.m. to 413 Crescent Boulevard for a reported structure fire. The fire was located in the front living area of the home and extinguished quickly by fire crews. The homeowner was alerted by audible devices within the home and made an attempt to extinguish the fire with a home fire extinguisher. The homeowner escaped through an adjoining bedroom window to safety. One animal did perish during the fire out of five total pets in the structure. Fire damage was contained to the area of origin, however, smoke damage was present on the 1st level of the home. Crews remained on scene for two hours conducting overhaul and investigation. The investigation determined the fire started in an electrical device in the living room. The homeowner was checked by Reno County EMS for smoke inhalation and was released on scene.

One animal dies in Monday morning fire

December 7, 2020 Morning News

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 990 as of Sunday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 59. Forty people have died in the last 30 days.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 32 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 95 active cases. Twenty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 39 active clusters in the county.

Out of 5,348 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 980 cases in the community at large. 4,299 people have recovered thus far.

Thirty-five Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred thirty-five total have been hospitalized. Eighty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 27 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 23.49%, with the overall positive test rate at 29.87%. 28.48% of the population has been tested.

The next community testing date is Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dairy Tie Barn on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 990 as of Sunday afternoon. The death count among Reno County residents is at 59. Forty people have died in the last 30 days.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 32 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 95 active cases. Twenty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 39 active clusters in the county.Out of 5,348 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 980 cases in the community at large. 4,299 people have recovered thus far.Thirty-five Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred thirty-five total have been hospitalized. Eighty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 27 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 23.49%, with the overall positive test rate at 29.87%. 28.48% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dairy Tie Barn on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Case count in Reno County 990,  with 980 in community as of Sunday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Marshal Tony Arpin says if you're going to have a real Christmas tree, it needs to have plenty of moisture.

"I've heard cases of static electricity actually starting a Christmas tree on fire," Arpin said. "Please keep them watered. Make sure all your Christmas tree lights, there's no exposed wiring on those, they're all functioning properly and be careful with cats. Cats like to knock over Christmas trees, I hear."

The amount of water a Christmas tree could need is large.

"A cedar tree out in a field, I've heard that they can drink 30 to 55 gallons of water a day once they are mature," Arpin said. "If you cut down a tree, you need to check it every day and make sure its got water every day."

Michigan State University notes that a tree with a 2-inch diameter trunk may initially use 2 quarts of water per day; a tree with a 4-inch diameter trunk may use more than 1 gallon per day. It's also important not to overload where your Christmas lights are plugged in.

"Be careful that you don't plug in too many strings of lights back to back," Arpin said. "There should be a tag that tells you how many you can plug in back to back. If you use extension cords, don't use those cheap little extension cords. Get a good heavy duty rated extension cord for how much energy you're going to be pulling."

Make sure that extension cord doesn't have any cracks and is in good working order, too.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Marshal Tony Arpin says if you're going to have a real Christmas tree, it needs to have plenty of moisture."I've heard cases of static electricity actually starting a Christmas tree on fire," Arpin said. "Please keep them watered. Make sure all your Christmas tree lights, there's no exposed wiring on those, they're all functioning properly and be careful with cats. Cats like to knock over Christmas trees, I hear."The amount of water a Christmas tree could need is large."A cedar tree out in a field, I've heard that they can drink 30 to 55 gallons of water a day once they are mature," Arpin said. "If you cut down a tree, you need to check it every day and make sure its got water every day."Michigan State University notes that a tree with a 2-inch diameter trunk may initially use 2 quarts of water per day; a tree with a 4-inch diameter trunk may use more than 1 gallon per day. It's also important not to overload where your Christmas lights are plugged in."Be careful that you don't plug in too many strings of lights back to back," Arpin said. "There should be a tag that tells you how many you can plug in back to back. If you use extension cords, don't use those cheap little extension cords. Get a good heavy duty rated extension cord for how much energy you're going to be pulling."Make sure that extension cord doesn't have any cracks and is in good working order, too.

Fire Marshal: Keep real Christmas trees watered, lights safe this season

TOPEKA – In accordance with Executive Order 20-30, and in recognition of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, December 7, 2020, Governor Laura Kelly has ordered flags throughout the State of Kansas to be flown at half-staff on Monday, December 7, 2020, until sunset.

“We will never forget the tragic day of December 7, 1941, when Imperial Japan launched an attack on Pearl Harbor, killing thousands of U.S. personnel and civilians,” Governor Laura Kelly said, “That day changed the trajectory of our nation and the world. We are thankful for all the veterans who have given their lives for the cause of freedom.”

The attack killed 2,403 U.S. personnel, including 68 civilians, and destroyed or damaged 19 U.S. Navy ships, including 8 battleships.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565011505111.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>TOPEKA – In accordance with Executive Order 20-30, and in recognition of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, December 7, 2020, Governor Laura Kelly has ordered flags throughout the State of Kansas to be flown at half-staff on Monday, December 7, 2020, until sunset.“We will never forget the tragic day of December 7, 1941, when Imperial Japan launched an attack on Pearl Harbor, killing thousands of U.S. personnel and civilians,” Governor Laura Kelly said, “That day changed the trajectory of our nation and the world. We are thankful for all the veterans who have given their lives for the cause of freedom.”The attack killed 2,403 U.S. personnel, including 68 civilians, and destroyed or damaged 19 U.S. Navy ships, including 8 battleships.

Flags at half-staff Monday for National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

Correction: Official charges in the case will not be filed until the court opens on Monday. The article has been corrected to reflect that the arrest has taken place.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson woman was arrested on potential charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal transportation of alcoholic beverage, aggravated battery; DUI, and involuntary homicide after an accident Saturday night in Reno County.

According to a post from the Reno County Sheriff's Office, at 11:39 p.m. Saturday night, deputies were sent to 3419 South Yoder Road for a rollover accident. When deputies arrived, they found a silver SUV on its top in the pasture. Eight people were inside. A 44-year-old man was ejected, a 31-year-old woman had injuries to her face, a 45-year-old man reported injuries to his face and hands, a 25-year-old man reported injuries to his shoulders and legs, a 23-year-old woman reported an injury to her left leg, a 39-year-old man reported an abrasion of his right upper arm and a 42-year-old man reported a head injury. All eight people were from Hutchinson. Two passengers were taken to Hutchinson Regional. One of them succumbed to their injuries. Names are not being released.

The driver, who was jailed in the incident was 31-year-old Viola Rhodes of Hutchinson. The driver is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The investigation continues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Correction: Official charges in the case will not be filed until the court opens on Monday. The article has been corrected to reflect that the arrest has taken place.HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson woman was arrested on potential charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal transportation of alcoholic beverage, aggravated battery; DUI, and involuntary homicide after an accident Saturday night in Reno County.According to a post from the Reno County Sheriff's Office, at 11:39 p.m. Saturday night, deputies were sent to 3419 South Yoder Road for a rollover accident. When deputies arrived, they found a silver SUV on its top in the pasture. Eight people were inside. A 44-year-old man was ejected, a 31-year-old woman had injuries to her face, a 45-year-old man reported injuries to his face and hands, a 25-year-old man reported injuries to his shoulders and legs, a 23-year-old woman reported an injury to her left leg, a 39-year-old man reported an abrasion of his right upper arm and a 42-year-old man reported a head injury. All eight people were from Hutchinson. Two passengers were taken to Hutchinson Regional. One of them succumbed to their injuries. Names are not being released.The driver, who was jailed in the incident was 31-year-old Viola Rhodes of Hutchinson. The driver is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The investigation continues.

Saturday night accident kills one, injures seven others, charges to be filed

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 973 as of Saturday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 58.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 32 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 94 active cases. Twenty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 39 active clusters in the county.

Out of 5,301 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 963 cases in the community at large. 4,270 people have recovered thus far.

Forty Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred thirty-three total have been hospitalized. Eighty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 27 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 23.49%, with the overall positive test rate at 29.74%. 28.36% of the population has been tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 973 as of Saturday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 58.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 32 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 94 active cases. Twenty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 39 active clusters in the county.Out of 5,301 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 963 cases in the community at large. 4,270 people have recovered thus far.Forty Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred thirty-three total have been hospitalized. Eighty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 27 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 23.49%, with the overall positive test rate at 29.74%. 28.36% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dairy Tie Barn on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Case count in Reno County 973,  with 963 in community as of Saturday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Schools is launching a new mobile app that helps students, parents and community members know what is happening on campus, right from their phones.

The app is free from the Apple Store or Google Play.

The app provides three main benefits. First, families, students and the public will know what is going on at school. For example, they will see real-time updates from the website’s live feed about stories happening inside the classroom, on the football field or in the art studio.

Second, families and the public can connect with teachers and administrators. For example, learn about parent-teacher conferences, access staff contact information and quickly find out about district news.

Finally, families can stay up-to-date with school information such as receiving updates about events occurring on campus, the daily cafeteria menu, required forms and even emergency notifications.

In conjunction with the app, the district’s website has a new look and feel. The website is available at <a href="http://www.usd308.com/">www.usd308.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Schools is launching a new mobile app that helps students, parents and community members know what is happening on campus, right from their phones.The app is free from the Apple Store or Google Play.The app provides three main benefits. First, families, students and the public will know what is going on at school. For example, they will see real-time updates from the website’s live feed about stories happening inside the classroom, on the football field or in the art studio.Second, families and the public can connect with teachers and administrators. For example, learn about parent-teacher conferences, access staff contact information and quickly find out about district news.Finally, families can stay up-to-date with school information such as receiving updates about events occurring on campus, the daily cafeteria menu, required forms and even emergency notifications.In conjunction with the app, the district’s website has a new look and feel. The website is available at <a href="http://www.usd308.com/">www.usd308.com</a>.

USD 308 launches new app

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the hardest things to do during remote learning for students is find time to get hands-on training
needed in various vocational programs. Despite those challenges, 10 HCTEA welding students passed qualification
tests to earn industry-recognized certifications through the American Welding
Society during the first trimester of school. 

"It is an accomplishment for students to earn AWS
credentials and these students worked twice as hard to earn them while the school
was on a hybrid schedule this fall," Jeremiah Harmon, HCTEA welding instructor, said.

The HCTEA and HutchCC have been working to make sure
students get their hands-on training even though most classes are taught
online.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607097768944.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the hardest things to do during remote learning for students is find time to get hands-on training
needed in various vocational programs. Despite those challenges, 10 HCTEA welding students passed qualification
tests to earn industry-recognized certifications through the American Welding
Society during the first trimester of school. "It is an accomplishment for students to earn AWS
credentials and these students worked twice as hard to earn them while the school
was on a hybrid schedule this fall," Jeremiah Harmon, HCTEA welding instructor, said.The HCTEA and HutchCC have been working to make sure
students get their hands-on training even though most classes are taught
online.Earning credentials were:<ul>
 <li>Thomas
 Evans, Inman High School</li><li>Pryce
 Danyluk, Hutchinson High School</li><li>Christofer
 Hartman, Sterling High School</li><li>Jack
 Peterman, Hutchinson High School</li><li>Steve
 Puga, Hutchinson High School</li><li>Evam
 Remar, Trinity High School</li><li>Christian
 Rodriguez, Hutchinson High School</li><li>Andrew
 Schweigert, Hutchinson High School</li><li>Kolton
 Sims, Hutchinson High School</li><li>William
 Yates, Buhler High School</li>
 </ul>

HCTEA students earn AWS certifications

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. — The Reno County overall case count is at 1004 as of Friday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 58.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 31 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 94 active cases. Twenty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 39 active clusters in the county.

Out of 5,218 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 995 cases in the community at large. 4,156 people have recovered thus far.

The community's positive test rate is at 23.49%, with the overall positive test rate at 29.55%. 28.09% of the population has been tested.

The next community testing date is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dairy Tie Barn on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 1004 as of Friday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 58.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 31 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 94 active cases. Twenty-two people within those clusters have died. There are 39 active clusters in the county.Out of 5,218 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 995 cases in the community at large. 4,156 people have recovered thus far.Forty Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred thirty-three total have been hospitalized. Eighty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 27 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 23.49%, with the overall positive test rate at 29.55%. 28.09% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dairy Tie Barn on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Case count in Reno County is 1004, with 995 in community as of Friday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Health Department Director Karen Hammersmith noted that even though the new regulations from the CDC may allow you to get out of quarantine sooner if you get a negative test, you still have to wait for it to come back.

"If they test, they're more than likely going to have to do a send out test," Hammersmith said Friday. "If you do that at day 5, it's not going to be back at 24 hours. It may be back at 48 hours on that seventh day, but it's probably going to be more eight to ten."

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment clarified on Friday that if you get a test back and are symptom free, you can be removed from quarantine after seven full days, which is on day 8. If you do not get tested, you must go 10 full days without symptoms to be released on day 11.

"We're trying to work with the community," Hammersmith said. "We know that it's hard to keep your businesses going when somebody's off work for 14 days. It's hard to get a paycheck when you have no work for two weeks."

KDHE still recommends all exposed people should self-monitor for 14 days from exposure and contact healthcare provider if symptoms develop. The disease can still develop through day 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589983765832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Health Department Director Karen Hammersmith noted that even though the new regulations from the CDC may allow you to get out of quarantine sooner if you get a negative test, you still have to wait for it to come back."If they test, they're more than likely going to have to do a send out test," Hammersmith said Friday. "If you do that at day 5, it's not going to be back at 24 hours. It may be back at 48 hours on that seventh day, but it's probably going to be more eight to ten."The Kansas Department of Health and Environment clarified on Friday that if you get a test back and are symptom free, you can be removed from quarantine after seven full days, which is on day 8. If you do not get tested, you must go 10 full days without symptoms to be released on day 11."We're trying to work with the community," Hammersmith said. "We know that it's hard to keep your businesses going when somebody's off work for 14 days. It's hard to get a paycheck when you have no work for two weeks."KDHE still recommends all exposed people should self-monitor for 14 days from exposure and contact healthcare provider if symptoms develop. The disease can still develop through day 14.

Even if using new quarantine rules, you still need to monitor for symptoms

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce announced recently that Holly Leiker, national sports &amp; destination sales manager for Visit Hutch has earned the Certified Sports Event Executive (CSEE) designation.&nbsp;

This prestigious, national program and training is only available to SportsETA members across the country.

Leiker began working on the certification courses in 2016 and completed the 32-credit hour requirement in August 2020. The courses were a partnership between SportsETA and Ohio University, with a combination of online education and in-person courses.

The program included continuing education to provide participants with cutting-edge knowledge to increase their efficiency and effectiveness in the sports event industry, while enabling them to earn the designation of CSEE. Course topics included Risk Management, Effective Selling and Communication, Event Planning and more.

Leiker has been in her current role with Visit Hutch since July 2015 and was previously with Visit Hutch as sales manager from August 2010 to July 2014.&nbsp;

She graduated from the University of Kansas in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and minor in Communication Studies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607119768326.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce announced recently that Holly Leiker, national sports &amp; destination sales manager for Visit Hutch has earned the Certified Sports Event Executive (CSEE) designation.&nbsp;This prestigious, national program and training is only available to SportsETA members across the country.Leiker began working on the certification courses in 2016 and completed the 32-credit hour requirement in August 2020. The courses were a partnership between SportsETA and Ohio University, with a combination of online education and in-person courses.The program included continuing education to provide participants with cutting-edge knowledge to increase their efficiency and effectiveness in the sports event industry, while enabling them to earn the designation of CSEE. Course topics included Risk Management, Effective Selling and Communication, Event Planning and more.Leiker has been in her current role with Visit Hutch since July 2015 and was previously with Visit Hutch as sales manager from August 2010 to July 2014.&nbsp;She graduated from the University of Kansas in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and minor in Communication Studies.

Leiker earns national sports designation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man who is serving a life
sentence for the 1978 murder of his wife had his sentence upheld by the
Kansas Supreme Court.

Phillip Parks filed the motion in 2019 claiming his sentence
was illegal because of how the guidelines were changed between the time he
committed the crime and the time he was sentenced.

But the high court ruled that the defendant’s sentence was
correct and was in line with sentencing guidelines at the time.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242175519.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man who is serving a life
sentence for the 1978 murder of his wife had his sentence upheld by the
Kansas Supreme Court.Phillip Parks filed the motion in 2019 claiming his sentence
was illegal because of how the guidelines were changed between the time he
committed the crime and the time he was sentenced.But the high court ruled that the defendant’s sentence was
correct and was in line with sentencing guidelines at the time.Parks was convicted of killing Rachel Parks in 1997 after
pleading no contest. The discovery of Parks' crime in Hutchinson came 19 years
after it happened when he was convicted of the attempted murder of his new wife
in New Mexico. At that time, Parks told his wife he would have to kill her just
like he killed Rachel.Parks had a long fight through the appeals court system to
withdraw his plea deal, which was denied by the state and Supreme Court.

1978 murder sentence upheld by Supreme Court

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court has upheld the
conviction of a Hutchinson man who burned down the family home killing his
mother and sister when he was 14-years-old.

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

Police found Vonachen walking toward the house, smelling of
gasoline. After interrogation, he admitted to burning down the house. He was
charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree
murder, and one count of aggravated arson.

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

The court said it reviewed the videotape of the
interrogation and that Vonachen was advised of his rights and signed a written
waiver. While the interrogation occurred in the evening of the same day of the
early morning fire, defendant did not appear to be groggy or ill. Defendant's
father was present at the interrogation until defendant asked him to leave. The
defendant was 14-years-old and was able to communicate fluently. The
interrogation did not exceed a reasonable length of time. The officers did not
employ unfair or coercive tactics in conducting the interview.

A large part of the trial centered around Vonachen’s &nbsp;mental &nbsp;state. The defendant went through numerous
mental evaluations and the defense continuously brought up the defendant’s
mental state during the trial and on appeal. The jury rejected numerous claims
of mental disease or defect and convicted him on all counts. 

He is not eligible
for parole until 2039.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607101736463.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Supreme Court has upheld the
conviction of a Hutchinson man who burned down the family home killing his
mother and sister when he was 14-years-old.Samuel Vonachen, who is now 21 years old, was tried as an
adult and convicted of two counts of first-degree murder. Vonachen was
convicted&nbsp; of setting fire to the family home in September of 2013. While
his father got out of the home, his mother and sister were trapped
upstairs.&nbsp;Police found Vonachen walking toward the house, smelling of
gasoline. After interrogation, he admitted to burning down the house. He was
charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree
murder, and one count of aggravated arson.The defense motion before the Supreme Court stated that
Vonachen's rights were violated due to the state's abolishment of the insanity
defense. The motion also states that Vonachen's admission to police should have
been suppressed and that admission of the defendant's private writings in the
trial should not have been allowed.&nbsp;The court said it reviewed the videotape of the
interrogation and that Vonachen was advised of his rights and signed a written
waiver. While the interrogation occurred in the evening of the same day of the
early morning fire, defendant did not appear to be groggy or ill. Defendant's
father was present at the interrogation until defendant asked him to leave. The
defendant was 14-years-old and was able to communicate fluently. The
interrogation did not exceed a reasonable length of time. The officers did not
employ unfair or coercive tactics in conducting the interview.A large part of the trial centered around Vonachen’s &nbsp;mental &nbsp;state. The defendant went through numerous
mental evaluations and the defense continuously brought up the defendant’s
mental state during the trial and on appeal. The jury rejected numerous claims
of mental disease or defect and convicted him on all counts. He is not eligible
for parole until 2039.

Vonachen's conviction upheld by Supreme Court

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Bluestem PACE of McPherson announced Tuesday that they will be expanding services by opening an alternative care site in Hutchinson. Plans
are to have the facility operational by the spring of 2021.

The PACE
program partners with individuals and their caregivers so seniors can
remain safe and independent in their homes for as long as possible. The program
has been serving McPherson, Harvey, Marion, Reno, Rice and Saline counties for
four years. 

The Hutchinson
location will provide similar services as the center in McPherson, including
health care services, activities, meals and transportation, so participants
more local to Hutchinson will have to travel less frequently.

Bluestem
PACE provides participants with a variety of services from primary care
physicians to prescription drug services, all from one source. Participants can
also spend time at the PACE Center, allowing their in-home caregivers some
respite while receiving personal and medical care and enjoying social
activities.

The new
facility will be located at 1900 East 23rd&nbsp;Avenue with plans to
open to participants in March or April of 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561032986964.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Bluestem PACE of McPherson announced Tuesday that they will be expanding services by opening an alternative care site in Hutchinson. Plans
are to have the facility operational by the spring of 2021.The PACE
program partners with individuals and their caregivers so seniors can
remain safe and independent in their homes for as long as possible. The program
has been serving McPherson, Harvey, Marion, Reno, Rice and Saline counties for
four years. The Hutchinson
location will provide similar services as the center in McPherson, including
health care services, activities, meals and transportation, so participants
more local to Hutchinson will have to travel less frequently.Bluestem
PACE provides participants with a variety of services from primary care
physicians to prescription drug services, all from one source. Participants can
also spend time at the PACE Center, allowing their in-home caregivers some
respite while receiving personal and medical care and enjoying social
activities.The new
facility will be located at 1900 East 23rd&nbsp;Avenue with plans to
open to participants in March or April of 2021.

Bluestem PACE coming to Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Friday
that a portion of the BNSF overpass on&nbsp; Airport Road will be closed for an extended
period of time starting Monday. 

The southbound portion of the overpass will be reduced to
one lane so repair work can be done to the guardrail on the bridge.

The project is expected to take about three weeks to complete.
If you need more information on this or other city street projects contact
public works at 694-1900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564755565813.jpeg" alt="Road Work " />
 <figcaption>Road Work </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced Friday
that a portion of the BNSF overpass on&nbsp; Airport Road will be closed for an extended
period of time starting Monday. The southbound portion of the overpass will be reduced to
one lane so repair work can be done to the guardrail on the bridge.The project is expected to take about three weeks to complete.
If you need more information on this or other city street projects contact
public works at 694-1900.

Southbound Airport Road bridge down to one lane starting Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;BrightHouse is having an in-person event this weekend as part of its Stuff the Bus initiative.

"On Saturday, you can come out to Dillons Marketplace and purchase items from our list," Kaitlin Tucker with BrightHouse said. "You can leave them right there, you don't even have to take them anywhere else.&nbsp; Also, if you have a pick-up order, you can note some things that you want to go to BrightHouse. We'll pull those to the side and then we'll pick them up and help stuff the bus and stock up our shelter."

Donna Davis with BrightHouse wanted to thank the community for the online donations they have given so far.

"This year so far, we have housed 80 people," Davis said. "Forty of those have been kids. People don't leave home without their children. Donating to Stuff the Bus will help us feed people who have had to flee because of domestic violence."

If you'd like to donate online, you can donate below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576077635008.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;BrightHouse is having an in-person event this weekend as part of its Stuff the Bus initiative.<div><form name="PrePage" method = "post" action = "https://Simplecheckout.authorize.net/payment/CatalogPayment.aspx"> <input type = "hidden" name = "LinkId" value ="8da702bc-fead-45af-a0d0-8f7c9febf793" /> <input type = "image" src ="//content.authorize.net/images/donate-gold.gif" /> </form>
</div>"On Saturday, you can come out to Dillons Marketplace and purchase items from our list," Kaitlin Tucker with BrightHouse said. "You can leave them right there, you don't even have to take them anywhere else.&nbsp; Also, if you have a pick-up order, you can note some things that you want to go to BrightHouse. We'll pull those to the side and then we'll pick them up and help stuff the bus and stock up our shelter."Donna Davis with BrightHouse wanted to thank the community for the online donations they have given so far."This year so far, we have housed 80 people," Davis said. "Forty of those have been kids. People don't leave home without their children. Donating to Stuff the Bus will help us feed people who have had to flee because of domestic violence."If you'd like to donate online, you can donate below.<div><form name="PrePage" method = "post" action = "https://Simplecheckout.authorize.net/payment/CatalogPayment.aspx"> <input type = "hidden" name = "LinkId" value ="8da702bc-fead-45af-a0d0-8f7c9febf793" /> <input type = "image" src ="//content.authorize.net/images/donate-gold.gif" /> </form>
</div>

Stuff the Bus in-person event Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 1130 as of Thursday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 57.

The Correctional Facility cluster type has 34 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 99 active cases. Twenty-one people within those clusters have died. There are 37 active clusters in the county.

Out of 5,097 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 1,121 cases in the community at large. 3,910 people have recovered thus far.

Forty Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred thirty-three total have been hospitalized. Eighty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 26 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.

The community's positive test rate is at 23.49%, with the overall positive test rate at 29.18%. 27.79% of the population has been tested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County overall case count is at 1130 as of Thursday evening. The death count among Reno County residents is at 57.The Correctional Facility cluster type has 34 active cases measured by the county's COVID-19 dashboard. The Long Term Care Facility cluster type has 99 active cases. Twenty-one people within those clusters have died. There are 37 active clusters in the county.Out of 5,097 total cases since the beginning of the pandemic, there are 1,121 cases in the community at large. 3,910 people have recovered thus far.Forty Reno County residents are in the hospital. Two hundred thirty-three total have been hospitalized. Eighty-two have been admitted to the ICU and 26 have been intubated. These are Reno County resident numbers regardless of where they are hospitalized.The community's positive test rate is at 23.49%, with the overall positive test rate at 29.18%. 27.79% of the population has been tested.The next community testing date is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dairy Tie Barn on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. To schedule your appointment, call 1-844-834-3657.

Case count in Reno County is 1130, with 1121 in community as of Thursday evening

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department is adopting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidance with modifications for shortening the length of quarantine for individuals identified as close contacts to COVID-19 positive individuals. While the CDC still recognizes the incubation period for this disease is 14 days; they have released modified guidance allowing for shorter quarantine periods to increase better compliance with quarantine and increase people getting tested.

Therefore, the Reno County Health Department will adopt CDC’s shortened quarantine as follows:

7 Day Quarantine (Includes Testing and No Symptoms)

· After exposure monitor yourself for symptoms for 14 days

· If you have no symptoms during this time frame, on or after Day 5, you may get a PCR test (antigen and antibody tests are NOT allowed for this purpose).

· If the test is negative, and you remain symptom-free, you can be removed from quarantine on or after Day 7.

· If testing results are pending on Day 7, you must wait until you receive results.

10 Day Quarantine (No Testing and No Symptoms)

· If you have no symptoms during the 10 days, you can be released from the quarantine without a test.

The incubation period for COVID-19 is 14 days, therefore people should self-monitor for fourteen (14) days from exposure and contact a healthcare provider if any symptoms develop.

Please note that rapid tests are not available in large quantities at this time and will not be utilized for these testing purposes.

The following individuals are not eligible for shortened quarantine:

· Residents of long-term care and assisted living facilities

· Offender populations in Department of Corrections prisons, county jails, and youth detention centers

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department is adopting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidance with modifications for shortening the length of quarantine for individuals identified as close contacts to COVID-19 positive individuals. While the CDC still recognizes the incubation period for this disease is 14 days; they have released modified guidance allowing for shorter quarantine periods to increase better compliance with quarantine and increase people getting tested.Therefore, the Reno County Health Department will adopt CDC’s shortened quarantine as follows:7 Day Quarantine (Includes Testing and No Symptoms)· After exposure monitor yourself for symptoms for 14 days· If you have no symptoms during this time frame, on or after Day 5, you may get a PCR test (antigen and antibody tests are NOT allowed for this purpose).· If the test is negative, and you remain symptom-free, you can be removed from quarantine on or after Day 7.· If testing results are pending on Day 7, you must wait until you receive results.10 Day Quarantine (No Testing and No Symptoms)· After exposure monitor yourself for symptoms for 14 days· If you have no symptoms during the 10 days, you can be released from the quarantine without a test.The incubation period for COVID-19 is 14 days, therefore people should self-monitor for fourteen (14) days from exposure and contact a healthcare provider if any symptoms develop.Please note that rapid tests are not available in large quantities at this time and will not be utilized for these testing purposes.The following individuals are not eligible for shortened quarantine:· Residents of long-term care and assisted living facilities· Offender populations in Department of Corrections prisons, county jails, and youth detention centers

Reno County Health Department adopting new CDC guidance on quarantine periods

CHENEY, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Cheney State Park Marina.&nbsp;

The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system due to maintenance. Failure to maintain adequate pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the Cheney State Park Marina indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594587740135.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHENEY, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Cheney State Park Marina.&nbsp;The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system due to maintenance. Failure to maintain adequate pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.Laboratory testing samples collected from the Cheney State Park Marina indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.&nbsp;&nbsp;