The Ellsworth County Independent-Reporter named its first Hometown Hero in this week’s edition. John Hoch’s daughter wrote a touching tribute to her father, a driver for the U.S. Postal Service.

Mr. Hoch, while deserving of the recognition, is not Ellsworth County’s only Hometown Hero. We think of the grocery stores clerks, the health care workers, teachers and even the I-R’s own Alan Rusch, who continues to attend meetings and report on them so the residents of Ellsworth County can continue to monitor the actions of their elected and appointed city and county officials.

Do you know of someone who deserves the title of Hometown Hero? Please send information, along with a photo, to the I-R at indy@eaglecom.net or mail to 304 N. Douglas Ave., Ellsworth, Kan. 67439.

Almost no one has escaped the disruption caused by a pandemic that leaves us with so much uncertainty over the future. But there are hints of light in the darkness. Recognizing that a teacher is more important to society than a football player might be one of them.

The pandemic also has also brought into focus the cracks in our society that need to be fixed. Inadequate health care. Income inequality. Judicial reform. Our treatment of women and minorities. The list is long, but in order for Americans to live up to the ideals we claim to cherish, we can’t just walk away after the threat of COVID-19 passes.

Note to Readers — The Ellsworth County Independent-Reporter welcomes signed letters to the editor. Send your letters to indy@eaglecom.net or mail them to 304 N. Douglas Ave., Ellsworth, Kan. 67439.

Questions? Call Ellsworth County I-R editor Linda Mowery-Denning, (785) 472-7339.