
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Cosmosphere has reduced its hours for the winter following the Labor Day holiday.

"The pandemic has impacted all businesses," said Cosmosphere CEO Jim Remar. "It's especially hit the tourism and hospitality sectors, food and beverage. We made a decision to shorten our operating hours as a cost-saving measure, but those two days that we decided to close, Monday and Tuesday were two of our slower days and we felt that most traffic occurred Wednesday through Sunday anyway. We feel that if someone was going to come on Monday or Tuesday, they're also going to be inclined to come Wednesday through Sunday."

One of the difficult pieces for the Cosmosphere is the first time many kids come is on a school bus.

"The current restrictions are making school field trips something that we probably won't see as much as we would in the past for the foreseeable future," Remar said. "What we're doing to combat that is now working to develop more virtual content so if the school can't come here, we're looking at how we can get into the classroom."

Another source of struggle is that traveling exhibits don't travel to closed venues.

"Right now, the touring exhibition industry has been hit hard," Remar said Thursday. "In fact, I'll be on a webinar this afternoon with various individuals talking specifically about traveling exhibitions. We have obviously done a number of exhibits and artifact rentals over the years, in fact, rolled out our exhibit and artifact rental program early this year and began to gain some really nice traction, and unfortunately, COVID hit."

Remar expects things to bounce back for traveling exhibits, but it may be a year or two before it gets to where the Cosmosphere would like to see it. Currently, the Cosmosphere is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Masks are required at the Cosmosphere.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584388004236.jpeg" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Cosmosphere has reduced its hours for the winter following the Labor Day holiday."The pandemic has impacted all businesses," said Cosmosphere CEO Jim Remar. "It's especially hit the tourism and hospitality sectors, food and beverage. We made a decision to shorten our operating hours as a cost-saving measure, but those two days that we decided to close, Monday and Tuesday were two of our slower days and we felt that most traffic occurred Wednesday through Sunday anyway. We feel that if someone was going to come on Monday or Tuesday, they're also going to be inclined to come Wednesday through Sunday."One of the difficult pieces for the Cosmosphere is the first time many kids come is on a school bus."The current restrictions are making school field trips something that we probably won't see as much as we would in the past for the foreseeable future," Remar said. "What we're doing to combat that is now working to develop more virtual content so if the school can't come here, we're looking at how we can get into the classroom."Another source of struggle is that traveling exhibits don't travel to closed venues."Right now, the touring exhibition industry has been hit hard," Remar said Thursday. "In fact, I'll be on a webinar this afternoon with various individuals talking specifically about traveling exhibitions. We have obviously done a number of exhibits and artifact rentals over the years, in fact, rolled out our exhibit and artifact rental program early this year and began to gain some really nice traction, and unfortunately, COVID hit."Remar expects things to bounce back for traveling exhibits, but it may be a year or two before it gets to where the Cosmosphere would like to see it. Currently, the Cosmosphere is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Masks are required at the Cosmosphere.

Many areas of Cosmosphere business changed by COVID-19

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Thursday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 F250 pickup driven by Marcus Scott&nbsp;Ehrhardt, 31, Herington,&nbsp;was westbound at milemarker 236 of U.S. 56 highway in Galva.

The pickup struck a 2007 Kenworth semi driven by Steven Dale&nbsp;Albrecht, 60, Salina, that was pulling out of a driveway to go eastbound on U.S. 56.

The pickup then struck two parked vehicles and a pedestrian identified as Troy Daryl&nbsp;Regier, 62, Canton, in the parking lot of the welding shop.

EMS transported&nbsp;Regier to Wesley Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries.

Ehrhardt and&nbsp;Albrecht were not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

MCPHERSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Thursday in McPherson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 F250 pickup driven by Marcus Scott&nbsp;Ehrhardt, 31, Herington,&nbsp;was westbound at milemarker 236 of U.S. 56 highway in Galva.The pickup struck a 2007 Kenworth semi driven by Steven Dale&nbsp;Albrecht, 60, Salina, that was pulling out of a driveway to go eastbound on U.S. 56.The pickup then struck two parked vehicles and a pedestrian identified as Troy Daryl&nbsp;Regier, 62, Canton, in the parking lot of the welding shop.EMS transported&nbsp;Regier to Wesley Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries.Ehrhardt and&nbsp;Albrecht were not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized after pickup strikes semi, pedestrian

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 Health Department confirms a second local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 died September 8, 2020, while hospitalized in Hutchinson.

Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.

Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. 

It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County Health Department confirms a second local resident with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 died September 8, 2020, while hospitalized in Hutchinson.Out of respect for the family, the Reno County Health Department will not release any further information about this individual.Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

Second death in Reno County attributed to COVID-19 announced

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested and booked into jail Wednesday on aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery and aggravated burglary charges. 

Twenty-two-year-old Blake Kayden Bryant is said to have threatened 48-year-old Scott A. McCoy with a knife and attempted to steal his vehicle in the 1600 block of East 17th Avenue Tuesday evening.

Bryant was also jailed on an aggravated arson charge and a criminal damage charge from earlier incidents that evening. 

Bryant is also on parole following a 2016 conviction for robbery and conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man was arrested and booked into jail Wednesday on aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery and aggravated burglary charges. Twenty-two-year-old Blake Kayden Bryant is said to have threatened 48-year-old Scott A. McCoy with a knife and attempted to steal his vehicle in the 1600 block of East 17th Avenue Tuesday evening.Bryant was also jailed on an aggravated arson charge and a criminal damage charge from earlier incidents that evening. Bryant is also on parole following a 2016 conviction for robbery and conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery.Bond is set for Bryant at $143,000.

Hutchinson man arrested on kidnapping, robbery and burglary charges Wednesday

SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of South Hutchinson City Council is planning on offering a housing incentive program for new housing construction, but details are not yet available. 

City Superintendent James Dull said he wants the council to see the final language before publicizing the program.

The council instructed the City Attorney Stan Juhnke to draft a resolution for their review at the council's next meeting. 

That meeting is scheduled for September 21st at 7 p.m. at the community building at 101 West C.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of South Hutchinson City Council is planning on offering a housing incentive program for new housing construction, but details are not yet available. City Superintendent James Dull said he wants the council to see the final language before publicizing the program.The council instructed the City Attorney Stan Juhnke to draft a resolution for their review at the council's next meeting. That meeting is scheduled for September 21st at 7 p.m. at the community building at 101 West C.

South Hutch plans to look at new housing program resolution later this month

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 said in a Facebook post Wednesday it needs all families to complete the f<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.usd308.com%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2FParentResources%2FFree-Reduced-Meal-Application%2520online%2520instructions%255B2%255D.pdf%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3jj3JNRtODXHYNi1eC-VATDao1JYep9WnZYfCcnZ_88bZuDFahI45FSgM&amp;h=AT1sUYKxLTXbGgv6-CDXVGs9TA6BsmFIcCbMESYQbvlkMTdewzrXNBzFTJxka3vdFVgqt89EaDqZtYEt2dYHFKDf8jKdP5pvYIzQ1LNS0NLVe2jvx6ZLnWuIHYToWcW6gQ&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT2e0oz_DRy6fNpKMkUtmrpEZnZn9VFdhsS_t3QVP3LfSpATEgXAWL8kWMkbQ2F0zXffUScwSq-UwRL3zECsd2K2p8vVbi4Iqfi2xdt7ndPkr_2xvDgYY5fR7XFVXoVemDqxkKWpG3d5MNnQCTqtz5xgpzObOzi4MSX9DzFGP2aTfh4lDJQyXqnhTvCM">ree and reduced food service application</a> in order to create opportunities for the district to receive more funds.

"For people on free meals, we waive textbook fees," said spokesperson Ray Hemman. "For people on reduced meals, we cut that in about half. That's the biggest thing people see from year to year."

Depending on your income, this application also qualifies your student for other services. 

"If, for example, we're able to offer later this year internet access that reaches some of our families, that will be based on the free and reduced application that's turned in now," Hemman said. 

This could help for certain specific grant programs, too.

"If the district has a higher percent who fill it out, even if they're not eligible, there are some grants that look at that positively," Hemman said. "It helps the district maybe in some ways that we don't even know about."

Free and reduced lunch numbers are also used as a proxy for at-risk funding in the state's school finance formula.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 said in a Facebook post Wednesday it needs all families to complete the f<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.usd308.com%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2FParentResources%2FFree-Reduced-Meal-Application%2520online%2520instructions%255B2%255D.pdf%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3jj3JNRtODXHYNi1eC-VATDao1JYep9WnZYfCcnZ_88bZuDFahI45FSgM&amp;h=AT1sUYKxLTXbGgv6-CDXVGs9TA6BsmFIcCbMESYQbvlkMTdewzrXNBzFTJxka3vdFVgqt89EaDqZtYEt2dYHFKDf8jKdP5pvYIzQ1LNS0NLVe2jvx6ZLnWuIHYToWcW6gQ&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT2e0oz_DRy6fNpKMkUtmrpEZnZn9VFdhsS_t3QVP3LfSpATEgXAWL8kWMkbQ2F0zXffUScwSq-UwRL3zECsd2K2p8vVbi4Iqfi2xdt7ndPkr_2xvDgYY5fR7XFVXoVemDqxkKWpG3d5MNnQCTqtz5xgpzObOzi4MSX9DzFGP2aTfh4lDJQyXqnhTvCM">ree and reduced food service application</a> in order to create opportunities for the district to receive more funds. "For people on free meals, we waive textbook fees," said spokesperson Ray Hemman. "For people on reduced meals, we cut that in about half. That's the biggest thing people see from year to year."Depending on your income, this application also qualifies your student for other services. "If, for example, we're able to offer later this year internet access that reaches some of our families, that will be based on the free and reduced application that's turned in now," Hemman said. This could help for certain specific grant programs, too."If the district has a higher percent who fill it out, even if they're not eligible, there are some grants that look at that positively," Hemman said. "It helps the district maybe in some ways that we don't even know about."Free and reduced lunch numbers are also used as a proxy for at-risk funding in the state's school finance formula.

USD 308 calling for all families to fill out free and reduced lunch application


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —  A
record number of 22 projects representing 12 units/entities of
Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) competed for honors in
the seventh annual President’s Quality Awards. The awards program
was established in 2013 to provide departments an opportunity to
annually showcase their performance improvement projects. 



Since the program’s
inception, more than 50 projects have been presented that demonstrate
improved efficiencies, operation and administration of programs and
patient care. Also, a number of the successful projects resulted in a
savings of thousands of dollars in expenditures for HRMC.  


Last
week, Hutch Regional staff representatives selected six finalists and
a group of community leaders picked the top three finishers.


Winning first place is Labor,
Delivery, Recovery and Post-Partem (LDRP) for a project that focused
on early intervention in Newborns who are at risk for hypoglycemia
(low blood sugar). LDRP substituted an oral glucose gel in place of
an IV injection of Dextrose to stabilize the baby’s blood sugar.
The change resulted in increased time for bonding between mother and
child and reduced out of pocket expenses for families. IV usage for
newborns was reduced by 50 percent with plans underway to lower that
number even more in future years.


Second place was won by the
Hutch Regional Pharmacy for a successful program to reduce waste in
usage of TPA (clot busting medication). The cost of a single TPA vial
is $8,500 and the ingredients are good for six hours after mixing.
The project was part of a companion project by the Pharmacy to help
reduce Door-to-Door needle time for stroke alert patients by training
staff in procedures. During the past 12 months, the Door-to-Door
needle time has been reduced to less than 60 minutes which resulted
in a reduction of nearly one third in TPA purchases, a savings of
$78,000. 



Third place was won by the
Nursing Education department for the group’s relaunch of the Nurse
Residency program. The group set a goal of reducing turnover of new
hires in the ICU and ER from 44 percent in 2018 to ten percent or
less last year. The program far exceeded all expectations as not even
one first year nurse left the program during their first year of
employment. The cost to recruit and train each nurse is approximately
$70,000 so the improvement has resulted in a significant favorable
financial impact for HRMC. 



The first, second and third
place finishers will receive $500, $400, and $300 respectively to be
used for a project of their choosing to promote the goals and mission
of Hutch Regional. 


Ken
Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System
commended the work groups for their vision and innovative efforts to
develop a series of improvement projects. “All 22 projects entered
in this year’s competition will be used to improve the quality of
care and overall operation of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System,”
Johnson said. “We are very proud of the employees who not only did
their day-to-day jobs, but spent many hours to design and implement
programs that will have a positive and long-term impact on HRHS.”

Entities
within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System are Health-E-Quip,
Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County,
Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and the Hutchinson Regional
Medical Foundation.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574787528114.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A
record number of 22 projects representing 12 units/entities of
Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) competed for honors in
the seventh annual President’s Quality Awards. The awards program
was established in 2013 to provide departments an opportunity to
annually showcase their performance improvement projects. 

Since the program’s
inception, more than 50 projects have been presented that demonstrate
improved efficiencies, operation and administration of programs and
patient care. Also, a number of the successful projects resulted in a
savings of thousands of dollars in expenditures for HRMC. 
Last
week, Hutch Regional staff representatives selected six finalists and
a group of community leaders picked the top three finishers.
Winning first place is Labor,
Delivery, Recovery and Post-Partem (LDRP) for a project that focused
on early intervention in Newborns who are at risk for hypoglycemia
(low blood sugar). LDRP substituted an oral glucose gel in place of
an IV injection of Dextrose to stabilize the baby’s blood sugar.
The change resulted in increased time for bonding between mother and
child and reduced out of pocket expenses for families. IV usage for
newborns was reduced by 50 percent with plans underway to lower that
number even more in future years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599665192245.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
Second place was won by the
Hutch Regional Pharmacy for a successful program to reduce waste in
usage of TPA (clot busting medication). The cost of a single TPA vial
is $8,500 and the ingredients are good for six hours after mixing.
The project was part of a companion project by the Pharmacy to help
reduce Door-to-Door needle time for stroke alert patients by training
staff in procedures. During the past 12 months, the Door-to-Door
needle time has been reduced to less than 60 minutes which resulted
in a reduction of nearly one third in TPA purchases, a savings of
$78,000. 
<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599665212932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
Third place was won by the
Nursing Education department for the group’s relaunch of the Nurse
Residency program. The group set a goal of reducing turnover of new
hires in the ICU and ER from 44 percent in 2018 to ten percent or
less last year. The program far exceeded all expectations as not even
one first year nurse left the program during their first year of
employment. The cost to recruit and train each nurse is approximately
$70,000 so the improvement has resulted in a significant favorable
financial impact for HRMC. 
<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599665231996.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
The first, second and third
place finishers will receive $500, $400, and $300 respectively to be
used for a project of their choosing to promote the goals and mission
of Hutch Regional. 
Ken
Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System
commended the work groups for their vision and innovative efforts to
develop a series of improvement projects. “All 22 projects entered
in this year’s competition will be used to improve the quality of
care and overall operation of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System,”
Johnson said. “We are very proud of the employees who not only did
their day-to-day jobs, but spent many hours to design and implement
programs that will have a positive and long-term impact on HRHS.”Entities
within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System are Health-E-Quip,
Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County,
Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and the Hutchinson Regional
Medical Foundation.

Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System names President’s Quality Award Winners


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Nonprofits and K-12 private schools will be able to apply for COVID-19 relief through rallyreno.org beginning Sept. 15.

Reno County SPARK Grants will be funded from a $1.089 million portion of the $12 million in federal CARES Act money allocated to Reno County from Gov. Laura Kelly’s SPARK Task Force.

Reno County organizations with IRS nonprofit status and K-12 private schools may apply for aid to offset incurred and planned future expenses or revenue losses related to COVID-19.

A copy of the application is now available for preview at rallyreno.org ahead of next week’s opening of the grant cycle.

"These funds are intended to provide significant financial relief to our local non-profit community. Local non-profit providers have struggled to continue providing services and experienced significant revenue loss during this difficult time created by COVID-19,” Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers said.

Members of the committee overseeing the grants are Reno County Commissioner Bob Bush, Administrator Randy Partington and retired Administrator Gary Meagher; retired Hutchinson City Manager John Deardoff; United Way of Reno County Executive Director Lisa Gleason; Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce President Debra Teufel; and Hutchinson Community Foundation President &amp; CEO Aubrey Abbott Patterson.

Questions about the grant, application or process should be directed to Meagher, <a href="http://meagher.gary@yahoo.com">meagher.gary@yahoo.com</a> or 620-899-1109, or Deardoff,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:johndeardoff@outlook.com" target="_blank">johndeardoff@outlook.com</a>&nbsp;or 620-664-0270.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Nonprofits and K-12 private schools will be able to apply for COVID-19 relief through rallyreno.org beginning Sept. 15.Reno County SPARK Grants will be funded from a $1.089 million portion of the $12 million in federal CARES Act money allocated to Reno County from Gov. Laura Kelly’s SPARK Task Force.Reno County organizations with IRS nonprofit status and K-12 private schools may apply for aid to offset incurred and planned future expenses or revenue losses related to COVID-19.A copy of the application is now available for preview at rallyreno.org ahead of next week’s opening of the grant cycle."These funds are intended to provide significant financial relief to our local non-profit community. Local non-profit providers have struggled to continue providing services and experienced significant revenue loss during this difficult time created by COVID-19,” Reno County Commissioner Ron Sellers said.Members of the committee overseeing the grants are Reno County Commissioner Bob Bush, Administrator Randy Partington and retired Administrator Gary Meagher; retired Hutchinson City Manager John Deardoff; United Way of Reno County Executive Director Lisa Gleason; Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce President Debra Teufel; and Hutchinson Community Foundation President &amp; CEO Aubrey Abbott Patterson.Questions about the grant, application or process should be directed to Meagher, <a href="http://meagher.gary@yahoo.com">meagher.gary@yahoo.com</a> or 620-899-1109, or Deardoff,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:johndeardoff@outlook.com" target="_blank">johndeardoff@outlook.com</a>&nbsp;or 620-664-0270.

Grant cycle for nonprofit, private school SPARK aid starting next week


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar is still concerned that COVID-19 testing supplies are limited in the state, at least based on what is made available to his department when they ask for it.

"One of the things that we've had trouble getting all along, not only PPE, are the nasopharyngeal swabs that actually they use for the COVID test when they swab your nasal cavity," Weishaar said. "That's something that gets requested from us every single week and generally speaking, whatever we request from the state, they send about a quarter of it. That goes directly to the agencies who are doing the tests."

There was a supply chain shortage earlier this year that KDHE put out a proposal to have help with back in April.

"When we were having so much trouble getting them, there were some dental offices that produced those for the state and were able to print those, essentially on a 3D printer, to be used," Weishaar said. 

Weishaar expressed a concern about the potential for limits on testing supplies at Tuesday's Reno County Commission meeting where the commissioners approved spending money on a month's worth of testing supplies in an attempt to test asymptomatic community members to see if there is any asymptomatic COVID-19 spread going on in the community. Commissioner Ron Sellers noted the concern and asked for an update next week. 

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585131092050.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Emergency Management Director Adam Weishaar is still concerned that COVID-19 testing supplies are limited in the state, at least based on what is made available to his department when they ask for it."One of the things that we've had trouble getting all along, not only PPE, are the nasopharyngeal swabs that actually they use for the COVID test when they swab your nasal cavity," Weishaar said. "That's something that gets requested from us every single week and generally speaking, whatever we request from the state, they send about a quarter of it. That goes directly to the agencies who are doing the tests."There was a supply chain shortage earlier this year that KDHE put out a proposal to have help with back in April."When we were having so much trouble getting them, there were some dental offices that produced those for the state and were able to print those, essentially on a 3D printer, to be used," Weishaar said. Weishaar expressed a concern about the potential for limits on testing supplies at Tuesday's Reno County Commission meeting where the commissioners approved spending money on a month's worth of testing supplies in an attempt to test asymptomatic community members to see if there is any asymptomatic COVID-19 spread going on in the community. Commissioner Ron Sellers noted the concern and asked for an update next week.

Reno County EM: Testing supply chain still a concern even as it ramps up

HUTCHINSON, KS – Representative Paul Waggoner of the 104th House District will be hosting a coffee for constituents this Friday, September 11. 

Representative Waggoner will be in Buhler at the Mustard Seed from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Area constituents are invited to attend. Representative Waggoner looks forward to discussing state issues and answering questions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587035426296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, KS – Representative Paul Waggoner of the 104th House District will be hosting a coffee for constituents this Friday, September 11. Representative Waggoner will be in Buhler at the Mustard Seed from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.Area constituents are invited to attend. Representative Waggoner looks forward to discussing state issues and answering questions.

Waggoner to host coffee Friday in Buhler


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Salt City Chapter of the Guardians of the Children is doing their work to keep kids feeling safe as they face the people who have victimized them.

"It's just very important to empower the kids," said Ma, spokesperson for the group. "Motorcycles do that. They give the child a sense of empowerment. We go to court with them, if need be and they can focus on us rather than the predator."

The Guardians have a benefit coming up Thursday at Mi Tierra Restaurant at 700 East 4th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

"Guardians of the Children will get a percentage that night," Ma said. "We normally have a big kid's day event in April, which we wasn't able to do this year because of the COVID."

There will also be a benefit concert featuring Jake Gill Sunday September 20th at 2 p.m. at the Royals Bar and Banquet at 1514 East 4th. The door charge is $5. Royals is also the starting point for a Guardians Poker Run October 3rd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost for that is $20 a hand and $5 for a riders hand.

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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Salt City Chapter of the Guardians of the Children is doing their work to keep kids feeling safe as they face the people who have victimized them."It's just very important to empower the kids," said Ma, spokesperson for the group. "Motorcycles do that. They give the child a sense of empowerment. We go to court with them, if need be and they can focus on us rather than the predator."The Guardians have a benefit coming up Thursday at Mi Tierra Restaurant at 700 East 4th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m."Guardians of the Children will get a percentage that night," Ma said. "We normally have a big kid's day event in April, which we wasn't able to do this year because of the COVID."There will also be a benefit concert featuring Jake Gill Sunday September 20th at 2 p.m. at the Royals Bar and Banquet at 1514 East 4th. The door charge is $5. Royals is also the starting point for a Guardians Poker Run October 3rd from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost for that is $20 a hand and $5 for a riders hand.

Guardians of the Children chapter fundraising this month and next


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County total case count is down below 100 as of Tuesday evening. There are 84 cases of COVID-19 in Reno County.

According to the Reno County dashboard, the cluster related cases in the county are down to just 42, 41 of those at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility and one at Hutchinson Community College. That leaves 42 non-cluster related cases in the county.

809 people have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic. 724 have recovered. One has died.

7,264 tests have been administered, with 6,455 negatives for a positive test rate of 11.14% overall. The community test rate is 7.22%. 11.56% of the population has been tested.

One person is in the hospital. One is intubated. One is awaiting test results. 

We're also still awaiting the majority of the results from the 250 tests administered over the weekend that were administered to employees of USD 308 and USD 313 and their families.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County total case count is down below 100 as of Tuesday evening. There are 84 cases of COVID-19 in Reno County.According to the Reno County dashboard, the cluster related cases in the county are down to just 42, 41 of those at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility and one at Hutchinson Community College. That leaves 42 non-cluster related cases in the county.809 people have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic. 724 have recovered. One has died.7,264 tests have been administered, with 6,455 negatives for a positive test rate of 11.14% overall. The community test rate is 7.22%. 11.56% of the population has been tested.One person is in the hospital. One is intubated. One is awaiting test results. We're also still awaiting the majority of the results from the 250 tests administered over the weekend that were administered to employees of USD 308 and USD 313 and their families.

Reno County case count below 100, only 42 non-cluster related cases

RENO COUNTY— A Salina man was taken by air to an area hospital after being hurt at a construction site in Reno County Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, deputies, fire and EMS were dispatched just before 2 p.m. to the bridge at 69th Avenue and Nickerson Road. They found 42-year-old Gonzalo Chavez lying on his back in the sand near the river.

Deputies rendered aid until EMS and fire arrived. Deputies were told that a crane was loaded with 4,000 pounds of sheet pile and that the load was about six feet off the ground when the crane operator accidentally took his foot off of the crane brake and the load fell on top of Chavez. The operator lifted the load off and other employees rendered aid and called 911. 

Chavez was taken to the Hutchinson Airport and airlifted to an area hospital. His condition was not released.

<figure>
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 </figure>RENO COUNTY— A Salina man was taken by air to an area hospital after being hurt at a construction site in Reno County Tuesday afternoon.According to the Reno County Sheriff's Office, deputies, fire and EMS were dispatched just before 2 p.m. to the bridge at 69th Avenue and Nickerson Road. They found 42-year-old Gonzalo Chavez lying on his back in the sand near the river.Deputies rendered aid until EMS and fire arrived. Deputies were told that a crane was loaded with 4,000 pounds of sheet pile and that the load was about six feet off the ground when the crane operator accidentally took his foot off of the crane brake and the load fell on top of Chavez. The operator lifted the load off and other employees rendered aid and called 911. Chavez was taken to the Hutchinson Airport and airlifted to an area hospital. His condition was not released.

Salina man hurt in industrial accident Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The large drop in temperature this week has got Reno County officials thinking ahead to when everyone is driven indoors this fall and winter.

"I think we're all going to have concerns as we're moving into the colder months and going indoors," said Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "Then, you're going to introduce flu season, as well."

It is important to note that mask wearing and social distancing are helpful.

"Perhaps we could have a lighter flu season, just due to the fact that we're doing everything to prevent COVID," Hammersmith said. "It's going to prevent flu, as well. If you're washing your hands, you're wearing a mask, you're social distancing, all of those things are going to prevent most viruses."

It's also time to start thinking about getting your flu shot.

"We'll have flu shot clinics," Hammersmith said. "I know a lot of companies have already jumped on board. We've got a lot of companies that we're going to go out to and give our flu shots to. We've generally done that and we're going to continue to do that. All around the area, they've got flu shots advertised and we do have flu shots in. The companies were really good to produce even extra flu shots that hopefully, more people would go ahead and get your flu shot."

That's one way to try to prevent medical providers from trying to have to figure out if you have the flu or COVID-19 or both.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The large drop in temperature this week has got Reno County officials thinking ahead to when everyone is driven indoors this fall and winter."I think we're all going to have concerns as we're moving into the colder months and going indoors," said Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith. "Then, you're going to introduce flu season, as well."It is important to note that mask wearing and social distancing are helpful."Perhaps we could have a lighter flu season, just due to the fact that we're doing everything to prevent COVID," Hammersmith said. "It's going to prevent flu, as well. If you're washing your hands, you're wearing a mask, you're social distancing, all of those things are going to prevent most viruses."It's also time to start thinking about getting your flu shot."We'll have flu shot clinics," Hammersmith said. "I know a lot of companies have already jumped on board. We've got a lot of companies that we're going to go out to and give our flu shots to. We've generally done that and we're going to continue to do that. All around the area, they've got flu shots advertised and we do have flu shots in. The companies were really good to produce even extra flu shots that hopefully, more people would go ahead and get your flu shot."That's one way to try to prevent medical providers from trying to have to figure out if you have the flu or COVID-19 or both.

Hammersmith: Flu season coming soon, but hygiene should help

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County EMS, an entity of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, has been named recipient of the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Award for 2020.

The award was granted to recognize Reno County EMS for implementing and maintaining quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who suffer heart attacks. Specifically, the award recognizes efforts to improve systems of care to rapidly identify suspected heart attack victims and promptly notify the Emergency Department of Hutch Regional in an effort to generate a speedy response once the patient arrives at the hospital.

Dave Johnston, Reno County EMS Chief, reaffirmed that the emergency organization is committed to providing the highest level of care by ensuring the EMS team is prepared to respond immediately when cardiac emergencies occur. “The coordinated efforts of first responders, EMS and specialized medical teams have improved the survivability of severe cardiac events in Reno County,” Johnston said. “I am very proud of the role Reno County EMS plays in the integrated healthcare team and their dedication to the community. The Gold Plus Award highlights our efforts to constantly improve the delivery of care.”

Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, commended Reno County EMS for achieving this national recognition. “This award comes as no surprise in that Reno County EMS is a repeat winner of this well-deserved honor for their excellence in providing the highest level of emergency care,” Johnson said. “The role of Reno County EMS in the system-of-care for these patients is crucial and often sets the course for a favorable outcome.”

The Lifeline recognition program was established in 2014 to recognize the achievements of emergency medical providers nationwide who collaborate with hospitals to achieve the best outcome possible.

Entities within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System are Health-E-Quip, Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and the Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599594228032.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County EMS, an entity of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, has been named recipient of the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Award for 2020.The award was granted to recognize Reno County EMS for implementing and maintaining quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who suffer heart attacks. Specifically, the award recognizes efforts to improve systems of care to rapidly identify suspected heart attack victims and promptly notify the Emergency Department of Hutch Regional in an effort to generate a speedy response once the patient arrives at the hospital.Dave Johnston, Reno County EMS Chief, reaffirmed that the emergency organization is committed to providing the highest level of care by ensuring the EMS team is prepared to respond immediately when cardiac emergencies occur. “The coordinated efforts of first responders, EMS and specialized medical teams have improved the survivability of severe cardiac events in Reno County,” Johnston said. “I am very proud of the role Reno County EMS plays in the integrated healthcare team and their dedication to the community. The Gold Plus Award highlights our efforts to constantly improve the delivery of care.”Ken Johnson, President and CEO of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, commended Reno County EMS for achieving this national recognition. “This award comes as no surprise in that Reno County EMS is a repeat winner of this well-deserved honor for their excellence in providing the highest level of emergency care,” Johnson said. “The role of Reno County EMS in the system-of-care for these patients is crucial and often sets the course for a favorable outcome.”The Lifeline recognition program was established in 2014 to recognize the achievements of emergency medical providers nationwide who collaborate with hospitals to achieve the best outcome possible.Entities within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System are Health-E-Quip, Horizons Mental Health Center, Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and the Hutchinson Regional Medical Foundation.

Reno County EMS wins American Heart Association national award 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The first negotiations session for the 2020-21 negotiated agreement between Hutchinson Public Schools and the Hutchinson National Education Association will be at 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, at the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy, 800 15th Circle.

Except for caucus periods of the individual groups, the negotiations are open meetings. Normally, the two groups meet several times for negotiations. USD 308 Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Rick Kraus previously noted that the two sides would likely not reach an agreement until after the amount of money the district gets from enrollment is known. 

That count day this year is September 21st.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The first negotiations session for the 2020-21 negotiated agreement between Hutchinson Public Schools and the Hutchinson National Education Association will be at 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, at the Hutchinson Career and Technical Education Academy, 800 15th Circle.Except for caucus periods of the individual groups, the negotiations are open meetings. Normally, the two groups meet several times for negotiations. USD 308 Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Rick Kraus previously noted that the two sides would likely not reach an agreement until after the amount of money the district gets from enrollment is known. That count day this year is September 21st.

First negotiations session set for USD 308

CLARK COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Tuesday in Clark County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Volvo passenger vehicle driven by Tesfay A.&nbsp;Gebrewahd, 38, Jacksonville, FL.,&nbsp;was southbound on U.S. 283&nbsp; at U.S. 54 in Minneola.

The driver failed to yield at the stop sign when turning right and struck a westbound 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Hugo Rene&nbsp;Hernandez Jr., 25, Sterling.

EMS transported&nbsp;Gebrewahd and&nbsp;Hernandez Jr. to the hospital in Minneola. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

CLARK COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Tuesday in Clark County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Volvo passenger vehicle driven by Tesfay A.&nbsp;Gebrewahd, 38, Jacksonville, FL.,&nbsp;was southbound on U.S. 283&nbsp; at U.S. 54 in Minneola.The driver failed to yield at the stop sign when turning right and struck a westbound 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Hugo Rene&nbsp;Hernandez Jr., 25, Sterling.EMS transported&nbsp;Gebrewahd and&nbsp;Hernandez Jr. to the hospital in Minneola. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Rice County man hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kevin Nickel with Pinnacle Sports Performance does have some concern for the health of athletes if there are two football seasons in a 12-month period, as it looks like will be the case for some major college conferences and the NJCAA.

"A certain amount of caution needs to be taken when we talk about splitting up or multiplying the games or having multiple seasons," Nickel said. "You know, I'm concerned, a lot of the Division I schools are going to have really qualified medical staff and strength and conditioning staff, athletic trainers that are going to help keep an eye on all of the athletes and their development. Everybody's kind of learning as they go on this one."

It's striking the balance between the desire to improve skills and the risk of overuse injuries.

"Athletes, of course, always want to play," Nickel said. "They're always going to want to play. A lot of a coach's job and my job as a strength and conditioning coach here at Pinnacle Sports Performance is kind of harnessing that enthusiasm, knowing when to push, when to hold back and try to get that balance to develop them athletically and appropriately."

Some major college conferences have games this weekend, while others have not rescheduled their seasons as yet. NJCAA competition is slated for after the first of the year.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kevin Nickel with Pinnacle Sports Performance does have some concern for the health of athletes if there are two football seasons in a 12-month period, as it looks like will be the case for some major college conferences and the NJCAA."A certain amount of caution needs to be taken when we talk about splitting up or multiplying the games or having multiple seasons," Nickel said. "You know, I'm concerned, a lot of the Division I schools are going to have really qualified medical staff and strength and conditioning staff, athletic trainers that are going to help keep an eye on all of the athletes and their development. Everybody's kind of learning as they go on this one."It's striking the balance between the desire to improve skills and the risk of overuse injuries."Athletes, of course, always want to play," Nickel said. "They're always going to want to play. A lot of a coach's job and my job as a strength and conditioning coach here at Pinnacle Sports Performance is kind of harnessing that enthusiasm, knowing when to push, when to hold back and try to get that balance to develop them athletically and appropriately."Some major college conferences have games this weekend, while others have not rescheduled their seasons as yet. NJCAA competition is slated for after the first of the year.

Nickel: Concerns about multiple FB seasons, but trainers will be ready


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;There was a large testing event Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic. Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith let the county commission know about the tests during their meeting Tuesday and the commission approved the funding for that week and more funding through September.

"They tested right at around 250 people," Karen Hammersmith said. "Those were employees that got an email blast from Buhler and Hutchinson school districts. They included teachers, staff and spouses to come, if they would, on Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to get tested. We did that. It was very successful, as far as getting people in and out and getting the tests sent in."

The County Commission approved funding for the month of September to do the testing for groups that do not have symptoms.

"To have an accurate positive test rate, you cannot just target your people that have symptoms," Hammersmith said. "Otherwise, that positive test rate could be 100%. If you're only testing somebody that has all the signs and symptoms that it's COVID, well then, you're really looking that that's what you're going to find out."

Both Commissioner Ron Sellers and Commissioner Ron Hurst agree that the county needs to do the testing necessary to give the school districts an accurate picture.

"The county needs to do whatever we can to help our schools be in business," Sellers said. 

"We cannot afford to have kids miss school and try to put six or seven hours on the computer at home," Hurst added.

The commissioners approved one month's worth of tests at around 250 a week, with the projected cost for the month of $118,900.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;There was a large testing event Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic. Reno County Interim Health Officer Karen Hammersmith let the county commission know about the tests during their meeting Tuesday and the commission approved the funding for that week and more funding through September."They tested right at around 250 people," Karen Hammersmith said. "Those were employees that got an email blast from Buhler and Hutchinson school districts. They included teachers, staff and spouses to come, if they would, on Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to get tested. We did that. It was very successful, as far as getting people in and out and getting the tests sent in."The County Commission approved funding for the month of September to do the testing for groups that do not have symptoms."To have an accurate positive test rate, you cannot just target your people that have symptoms," Hammersmith said. "Otherwise, that positive test rate could be 100%. If you're only testing somebody that has all the signs and symptoms that it's COVID, well then, you're really looking that that's what you're going to find out."Both Commissioner Ron Sellers and Commissioner Ron Hurst agree that the county needs to do the testing necessary to give the school districts an accurate picture."The county needs to do whatever we can to help our schools be in business," Sellers said. "We cannot afford to have kids miss school and try to put six or seven hours on the computer at home," Hurst added.The commissioners approved one month's worth of tests at around 250 a week, with the projected cost for the month of $118,900.

Reno County Commission approves testing funding Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County COVID-19 situation appears to be relatively stable, judging by the numbers on the county's COVID-19 dashboard as of Monday evening.

There are 135 active cases, 83 of them are in the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, with two connected to Hutchinson Community College. There are no other active cases in the remaining clusters in the county, which leaves 50 non-cluster related cases as of Monday evening.

809 residents have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic, with 673 recoveries and one death.

The current testing statistics show 7,215 total tests administered, with 6,406 negative, for an overall positive test rate of 11.21%, and a community test rate of 7.28%.

According to a post late last week from the county's school districts, the positive test rate would, if it were being used, put the districts in the yellow zone in the county's gating criteria. However, that rate is not being used because testing is not widespread enough yet to make the positive test rate a valid number. 

The county was allowed to use some COVID-19 relief money to begin more widespread testing. Some of that took place Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic. Those test results have not come back yet, though they should be due later this week.

The current number that will be used to determine the gating criteria level for the districts when they begin using it September 11th is the 14-day new case count. As of August 28, that number was 78, which would also be in the yellow zone if that number does not drop between now and Friday.

In the yellow zone, on-site schooling would continue with grade level recess and modified transitions. Only active participants would travel to activities.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Reno County COVID-19 situation appears to be relatively stable, judging by the numbers on the county's COVID-19 dashboard as of Monday evening.There are 135 active cases, 83 of them are in the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, with two connected to Hutchinson Community College. There are no other active cases in the remaining clusters in the county, which leaves 50 non-cluster related cases as of Monday evening.809 residents have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic, with 673 recoveries and one death.The current testing statistics show 7,215 total tests administered, with 6,406 negative, for an overall positive test rate of 11.21%, and a community test rate of 7.28%.According to a post late last week from the county's school districts, the positive test rate would, if it were being used, put the districts in the yellow zone in the county's gating criteria. However, that rate is not being used because testing is not widespread enough yet to make the positive test rate a valid number. The county was allowed to use some COVID-19 relief money to begin more widespread testing. Some of that took place Saturday at the Hutchinson Clinic. Those test results have not come back yet, though they should be due later this week.The current number that will be used to determine the gating criteria level for the districts when they begin using it September 11th is the 14-day new case count. As of August 28, that number was 78, which would also be in the yellow zone if that number does not drop between now and Friday.In the yellow zone, on-site schooling would continue with grade level recess and modified transitions. Only active participants would travel to activities.

Reno County numbers stable as of Labor Day

Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran admits that COVID-19 has made it tough to tell the future on anything, but it is still his intent to see passenger rail remain alive through Kansas and westward.

"I'm an advocate for Amtrak generally and the Southwest Chief in particular," Moran said. "I also know a group of Kansans who are working hard to see if there can be an additional line that goes south to Texas. We want to be helpful to those who enjoy and appreciate Amtrak and make sure its available for long distance."

Moran has done everything he can do to be sure leadership is committed to the Southwest Chief.

"I've held up the nominations of three or four, now maybe five or six members of the Amtrak board, until they, in writing, commit to me to be advocates for the Southwest Chief and long distance passenger service. All but one has made that commitment and that other one has not yet been confirmed as a result of our hold."

He also had a recent conversation with the Amtrak CEO, William J. Flynn.

"Meeting, in this case, meant by phone," Moran said. "He assured me that once the reduction in the demand for passenger service that has occurred as a result of COVID-19, the pandemic, resolves itself, that Amtrak would be up to running its trains at its regular schedule, more days per week than what they're doing at the moment, as soon as COVID consequences are diminished."

The route is due to drop to three days a week next month, at least through the winter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592423924832.png" alt="Photo courtesy Amtrak" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Amtrak</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran admits that COVID-19 has made it tough to tell the future on anything, but it is still his intent to see passenger rail remain alive through Kansas and westward."I'm an advocate for Amtrak generally and the Southwest Chief in particular," Moran said. "I also know a group of Kansans who are working hard to see if there can be an additional line that goes south to Texas. We want to be helpful to those who enjoy and appreciate Amtrak and make sure its available for long distance."Moran has done everything he can do to be sure leadership is committed to the Southwest Chief."I've held up the nominations of three or four, now maybe five or six members of the Amtrak board, until they, in writing, commit to me to be advocates for the Southwest Chief and long distance passenger service. All but one has made that commitment and that other one has not yet been confirmed as a result of our hold."He also had a recent conversation with the Amtrak CEO, William J. Flynn."Meeting, in this case, meant by phone," Moran said. "He assured me that once the reduction in the demand for passenger service that has occurred as a result of COVID-19, the pandemic, resolves itself, that Amtrak would be up to running its trains at its regular schedule, more days per week than what they're doing at the moment, as soon as COVID consequences are diminished."The route is due to drop to three days a week next month, at least through the winter.

Moran: Still committed to Amtrak service, but COVID-19 makes it difficult

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A free-market policy group in Kansas is attempting to <a href="https://kansaspolicy.org/covid/">make publicly available</a> statistics on hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 easier for Kansans to digest.

What we've tried to do is put things in perspective," said Dave Trabert, CEO of the Kansas Policy Institute. "There's charts here, for example, there's one showing the new weekly cases across the state of Kansas and it's certainly showing an uptick. At the same time that's going up, you see the mortality rate falling."

The Kansas Policy Institute's COVID-19 Information Center has information on:

1. Comparative trends – cases, hospitalizations, and deaths

2. Cases, deaths, mortality rate and infection rate by county

3. Cases and deaths in Kansas nursing homes and other clusters

4. Hospitalization and death rate trends in Kansas

5. Hospital beds available in Kansas and regional states

"On July 6, there were almost 17,000 cases and a little over 1200 people hospitalized, so it was a cumulative rate of 7.31%," Trabert said. "That's down to 5.37%. This is cumulative. What's happened in between there that's brought that down? Only about 4% of the cases that have developed required hospitalization."

This is consistent with the hypothesis of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center pulmonologist Dr. Mohammed Al-Halawani earlier this month that it appears that COVID-19 is <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/79d51c33-f810-40f7-95b9-58c16fb51fbf">more infectious now than it was earlier in the year, but less severe</a>, particularly for those without underlying comorbidities.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A free-market policy group in Kansas is attempting to <a href="https://kansaspolicy.org/covid/">make publicly available</a> statistics on hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 easier for Kansans to digest.What we've tried to do is put things in perspective," said Dave Trabert, CEO of the Kansas Policy Institute. "There's charts here, for example, there's one showing the new weekly cases across the state of Kansas and it's certainly showing an uptick. At the same time that's going up, you see the mortality rate falling."The Kansas Policy Institute's COVID-19 Information Center has information on:1. Comparative trends – cases, hospitalizations, and deaths2. Cases, deaths, mortality rate and infection rate by county3. Cases and deaths in Kansas nursing homes and other clusters4. Hospitalization and death rate trends in Kansas5. Hospital beds available in Kansas and regional states6. Cases and deaths by state7. Pneumonia, COVID, and flu deaths8. COVID economic impact"On July 6, there were almost 17,000 cases and a little over 1200 people hospitalized, so it was a cumulative rate of 7.31%," Trabert said. "That's down to 5.37%. This is cumulative. What's happened in between there that's brought that down? Only about 4% of the cases that have developed required hospitalization."This is consistent with the hypothesis of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center pulmonologist Dr. Mohammed Al-Halawani earlier this month that it appears that COVID-19 is <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/79d51c33-f810-40f7-95b9-58c16fb51fbf">more infectious now than it was earlier in the year, but less severe</a>, particularly for those without underlying comorbidities.