
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Dillon Nature Center is hosting its largest fundraisers of the year with the Lesser Known Lovelies Plant Sale on Saturday starting at 9 a.m. 

The sale will take place on the lawn of the Taylors’ Shady Lane Cabin on the nature center grounds at 3002 E. 30th Ave.

Plants featured in the sale can withstand the dry, hot, and windy Kansas summers. Proceeds from the sale benefit the nature center.

For more information, call Dillon Nature Center at (620) 663-7411. 

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Dillon Nature Center is hosting its largest fundraisers of the year with the Lesser Known Lovelies Plant Sale on Saturday starting at 9 a.m. The sale will take place on the lawn of the Taylors’ Shady Lane Cabin on the nature center grounds at 3002 E. 30th Ave.Plants featured in the sale can withstand the dry, hot, and windy Kansas summers. Proceeds from the sale benefit the nature center.For more information, call Dillon Nature Center at (620) 663-7411.

Dillon Nature Center announces Lesser Known Lovelies Plant Sale Saturday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County schools are now in the yellow for next week. The case count and positive test rate numbers are continuing to climb over last week.

According to the county's dashboard, the 14-day positive test rate is up to 17.3% as of April 19, with 63 new cases in the past 14 days.

The case count numbers are down from a week ago, with 37 active cases as of Thursday. 7,831 people have had the virus, with 7,655 recoveries.

The Reno County vaccination numbers have been updated for the week, as well. As of Wednesday, 21,046 Reno County residents have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. That's 33.70% of residents.

The county has had 139 deaths attributed to the virus. Two of those have occurred in the last 30 days. One person is in the hospital.

The health department is taking walk-ins for the Moderna vaccine for those 18 and older, or you can find the other types of vaccine at vaccinefinder.org.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Reno County schools are now in the yellow for next week. The case count and positive test rate numbers are continuing to climb over last week.According to the county's dashboard, the 14-day positive test rate is up to 17.3% as of April 19, with 63 new cases in the past 14 days.The case count numbers are down from a week ago, with 37 active cases as of Thursday. 7,831 people have had the virus, with 7,655 recoveries.The Reno County vaccination numbers have been updated for the week, as well. As of Wednesday, 21,046 Reno County residents have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. That's 33.70% of residents.The county has had 139 deaths attributed to the virus. Two of those have occurred in the last 30 days. One person is in the hospital.The health department is taking walk-ins for the Moderna vaccine for those 18 and older, or you can find the other types of vaccine at vaccinefinder.org.

Schools in yellow for next week

HARVEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a car theft in Newton and have a suspect in custody.

Just before 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Newton Police responded to a report of a car theft in the parking lot at Athletic Park, 700 West First Street in Newton, according to a social media report.

 The car’s owner had been exercising in the park when the suspect approached her. The suspect tried to engage in small talk before saying he wanted to take the victim’s car. The suspect said he had a gun and threatened to harm the victim if she did not cooperate. The victim gave the suspect her keys, and he drove away in the car. 

Police found the car Thursday afternoon in Wichita and arrested a suspect.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

HARVEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a car theft in Newton and have a suspect in custody.Just before 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Newton Police responded to a report of a car theft in the parking lot at Athletic Park, 700 West First Street in Newton, according to a social media report. The car’s owner had been exercising in the park when the suspect approached her. The suspect tried to engage in small talk before saying he wanted to take the victim’s car. The suspect said he had a gun and threatened to harm the victim if she did not cooperate. The victim gave the suspect her keys, and he drove away in the car. Police found the car Thursday afternoon in Wichita and arrested a suspect.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

Police: Suspect took woman's car at gunpoint 

WASHINGTON — The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service today issued <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rp-21-20.pdf">Revenue Procedure 2021-20&nbsp;PDF</a>
 for certain businesses that received first-round Paycheck Protection 
Program (PPP) loans but did not deduct any of the original eligible 
expenses because they relied on guidance issued before the enactment of 
tax relief legislation in December of 2020.

Under prior guidance, businesses that received PPP loans to cover 
payroll costs, interest on covered mortgage obligations, covered rent 
obligation payments, and covered utility payments could not deduct 
corresponding expenses.

With the Dec. 27, 2020, enactment of the Consolidated Appropriations 
Act, 2021, businesses now may claim these deductions even though they 
received PPP loans to cover original eligible expenses. These businesses
 can use the safe harbor provided by this guidance to deduct those 
expenses on the return for the immediately subsequent year.

More information on COVID-19 related tax relief for business can be found on IRS.gov

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service today issued <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/rp-21-20.pdf">Revenue Procedure 2021-20&nbsp;PDF</a>
 for certain businesses that received first-round Paycheck Protection 
Program (PPP) loans but did not deduct any of the original eligible 
expenses because they relied on guidance issued before the enactment of 
tax relief legislation in December of 2020.Under prior guidance, businesses that received PPP loans to cover 
payroll costs, interest on covered mortgage obligations, covered rent 
obligation payments, and covered utility payments could not deduct 
corresponding expenses.With the Dec. 27, 2020, enactment of the Consolidated Appropriations 
Act, 2021, businesses now may claim these deductions even though they 
received PPP loans to cover original eligible expenses. These businesses
 can use the safe harbor provided by this guidance to deduct those 
expenses on the return for the immediately subsequent year.More information on COVID-19 related tax relief for business can be found on IRS.gov

IRS: Safe harbor for businesses to claim Payroll Protection Program tax deduction

HARVEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Thursday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Hyundai Elantra driven by Robert Edward Benson, 56, Kansas City, MO., was actively fleeing from Newton Police southbound on Plum Street from 12th Street. 

The driver lost control of the car. It rolled onto the left side, struck 2 trees and came to a rest on its wheels.

EMS transported&nbsp;Benson to Newton Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP. Authorities did not report what prompted the chase.

HARVEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Thursday in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Hyundai Elantra driven by Robert Edward Benson, 56, Kansas City, MO., was actively fleeing from Newton Police southbound on Plum Street from 12th Street. The driver lost control of the car. It rolled onto the left side, struck 2 trees and came to a rest on its wheels.EMS transported&nbsp;Benson to Newton Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP. Authorities did not report what prompted the chase.

Driver hospitalized after crash during police chase

HUTCHINSON, Kan. (April 21, 2021) - In 2020, 23 families in Reno County found a new direction in life thanks to The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope, a program designed to break the cycle of inter-generation poverty. Support for Pathway of Hope was provided by a grant from the Hutchinson Community Foundation - Fund for Hutchinson. The Salvation Army plans to expand the program further with a goal of helping 40 families in 2021.

“We want to thank the Hutchinson Community Foundation for this funding,” Major Paul James said. “This is a huge opportunity for us to be able to have a full-time staff member to focus solely on providing case management in Reno County.”

Pathway of Hope helps families solve any number of roadblocks that may be keeping them in poverty, including housing, education, employment, job training, and transportation. The program is one year long and requires parents putting in a great deal of “sweat equity” to build a new life for themselves and their children.

“We have seen a large increase in the number of families seeking a way to break the cycle of poverty in the last two years,” James said, leading The Salvation Army to apply for the grant to expand the Pathway of Hope case manager to a full-time position.

The job is posted now and anyone wanting to do the most good in Hutchinson and Reno County may apply online at: <a href="https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/usc/employment/">https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/usc/employment/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564176522240.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Salvation ArmyHUTCHINSON, Kan. (April 21, 2021) - In 2020, 23 families in Reno County found a new direction in life thanks to The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope, a program designed to break the cycle of inter-generation poverty. Support for Pathway of Hope was provided by a grant from the Hutchinson Community Foundation - Fund for Hutchinson. The Salvation Army plans to expand the program further with a goal of helping 40 families in 2021.“We want to thank the Hutchinson Community Foundation for this funding,” Major Paul James said. “This is a huge opportunity for us to be able to have a full-time staff member to focus solely on providing case management in Reno County.”Pathway of Hope helps families solve any number of roadblocks that may be keeping them in poverty, including housing, education, employment, job training, and transportation. The program is one year long and requires parents putting in a great deal of “sweat equity” to build a new life for themselves and their children.“We have seen a large increase in the number of families seeking a way to break the cycle of poverty in the last two years,” James said, leading The Salvation Army to apply for the grant to expand the Pathway of Hope case manager to a full-time position.The job is posted now and anyone wanting to do the most good in Hutchinson and Reno County may apply online at: <a href="https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/usc/employment/">https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/usc/employment/</a>.

Pathway of Hope program expanding in Reno County


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The annual Inman Classic Car Show was moved in 2020, but the community has decided to put it back in the spring this year and build other events around it, and the Inman Spring Festival is going on Saturday.

"We've got the car show going on down on Main Street," said spokesperson Lori Kearns. "Down by the Community Building, we've got a pedal tractor pull at 9:00 that morning, we've got a fun run at 7, we've got three on three basketball tournament at 11. We've got a benefit basket auction going on for a young man here in town that is needing a new prosthetic leg. He was in a farming accident."

The car show is judged by students from McPherson College. The college has the nation's only four-year Automotive Restoration program.

"These guys, some of the things they notice, I would not have a clue," Kearns said. "They just blow my mind. I love to sit in the little conference room with them and listen to them make their decisions. What one saw that someone else didn't, that was period correct for that year, etc. They're very knowledgeable."

The hope is that having more events in the spring will be able to bring out visitors that may not always come to the town's fall Santa Fe Days.

7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Breakfast at St. Peter's UCC Fellowship Hall-Free Will Donation

7:30 a.m Fun Run starts at Inman Wellness Center

8:30 a.m. Spring Fling Disc Golf Tournament at Lambert Park

9:00 a.m. Pedal Tractor Pull for ages 4 to 11 in front of the Community Building

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Goods to Go Craft and Vendor Show at the Inman Community Building and on Main Street

9:45 a.m. All Schools Day Royalty Mini Parade and Recognition-100 block South Main

10:00 a.m. Benefit Auction to help Garen Nikkel

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Salt City Cowboy Church Kiddy Corral, on lawn just south of Prairie Bank of Kansas

11:00 a.m. Three on Three Basketball Tournament in front of Inman Community Building

11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Main Street Pizza, Inman Harvest Cafe, Knackies and Inman Senior Center open for lunch. Lost in the Sauce and Matt's BBQ will serve at the Community Building.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Salt City Cowboy Church Band in Concert-200 block South Main

1 p.m. Inman Junior High Girls Basketball Recognition

1:15 p.m. Kiddy Dash for Cash and Candy for 10 and under-100 block South Main

1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Phaetons In Concert-200 block South Main

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sam Unruh Concert and Street Dance 100 block South Main

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The annual Inman Classic Car Show was moved in 2020, but the community has decided to put it back in the spring this year and build other events around it, and the Inman Spring Festival is going on Saturday."We've got the car show going on down on Main Street," said spokesperson Lori Kearns. "Down by the Community Building, we've got a pedal tractor pull at 9:00 that morning, we've got a fun run at 7, we've got three on three basketball tournament at 11. We've got a benefit basket auction going on for a young man here in town that is needing a new prosthetic leg. He was in a farming accident."The car show is judged by students from McPherson College. The college has the nation's only four-year Automotive Restoration program."These guys, some of the things they notice, I would not have a clue," Kearns said. "They just blow my mind. I love to sit in the little conference room with them and listen to them make their decisions. What one saw that someone else didn't, that was period correct for that year, etc. They're very knowledgeable."The hope is that having more events in the spring will be able to bring out visitors that may not always come to the town's fall Santa Fe Days.Here is a list of the Saturday events...7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Breakfast at St. Peter's UCC Fellowship Hall-Free Will Donation7:30 a.m Fun Run starts at Inman Wellness Center8:30 a.m. Spring Fling Disc Golf Tournament at Lambert Park9:00 a.m. Pedal Tractor Pull for ages 4 to 11 in front of the Community Building9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Goods to Go Craft and Vendor Show at the Inman Community Building and on Main Street9:45 a.m. All Schools Day Royalty Mini Parade and Recognition-100 block South Main10:00 a.m. Benefit Auction to help Garen Nikkel10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Salt City Cowboy Church Kiddy Corral, on lawn just south of Prairie Bank of Kansas11:00 a.m. Three on Three Basketball Tournament in front of Inman Community Building11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Main Street Pizza, Inman Harvest Cafe, Knackies and Inman Senior Center open for lunch. Lost in the Sauce and Matt's BBQ will serve at the Community Building.11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Salt City Cowboy Church Band in Concert-200 block South Main1 p.m. Junior Firefighter competition1 p.m. Inman Junior High Girls Basketball Recognition1:15 p.m. Kiddy Dash for Cash and Candy for 10 and under-100 block South Main1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Phaetons In Concert-200 block South Main3 p.m. Car Show trophy presentation4 p.m. Lions Club Fishing Derby6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sam Unruh Concert and Street Dance 100 block South Main

Day full of events in Inman Saturday

Joint Release from Police Chief Jeffrey Hooper and Human Relations Officer David Sotelo

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Over the past several months the Hutchinson Police Department and the City of Hutchinson’s Art Design Council have been working on the required artwork that will accompany the remodel of the Law Enforcement Center. My vision for this project has been to create a memorial to those Hutchinson Police Officers who gave their lives in the line of duty. This memorial / artwork will be the focus of the front lobby to the Police Department and generally the first thing people see upon visiting our agency. Because this is the first impression many people will have of HPD I wanted the artwork to also give people the feeling that the Police Department was a welcome, inviting and a safe place for everyone. With those two criteria in mind members of HPD and the Art Design Council began work on this project.

At the April 20th, 2021 City Council meeting we gave a presentation to the Council requesting approval to contract with an artist for this project. Several slides and photos were shown to the council of this artist’s work. As a part of that presentation a rendering that was created by the artist was also displayed. This rendering showed the officer in a kneeling position. This was the artist interpretation and in no way was the final statue. The final position of the Officer for the statue had not and still has not been determined. Upon granting the contract to this artist, the Police Department and Art Design Council will work closely together to come up with the final rendering of the statue.

There has been concern expressed from members of the community that the image of a kneeling officer is offensive and at the very least “tone deaf” given the current culture. I very much understand and agree with these concerns. As the Chief of Police, I will state that the final positioning of the statue will not be in a kneeling position. This statue must and will be a piece that every member of this community can appreciate as a memorial to those officers who gave their lives for the City of Hutchinson. Furthermore, this Statue must and will instill a sense of safety and welcome people into the Police Department.

I have been working with the Human Relations Officer, David Sotelo over the last 24 hours, as he has been in communication with the Human Relations Commission. As part of this partnership Mr. Sotelo and I have heard the concerns of the Commission and others. I have personally asked Mr. Sotelo to sit on the sub-committee to work on the final design for the statue. In this way, Mr. Sotelo will represent these community concerns to ensure the statue represents the hopes and dreams of every citizen of Hutchinson, safety, security, and equality.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582822413263.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joint Release from Police Chief Jeffrey Hooper and Human Relations Officer David SoteloHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Over the past several months the Hutchinson Police Department and the City of Hutchinson’s Art Design Council have been working on the required artwork that will accompany the remodel of the Law Enforcement Center. My vision for this project has been to create a memorial to those Hutchinson Police Officers who gave their lives in the line of duty. This memorial / artwork will be the focus of the front lobby to the Police Department and generally the first thing people see upon visiting our agency. Because this is the first impression many people will have of HPD I wanted the artwork to also give people the feeling that the Police Department was a welcome, inviting and a safe place for everyone. With those two criteria in mind members of HPD and the Art Design Council began work on this project.At the April 20th, 2021 City Council meeting we gave a presentation to the Council requesting approval to contract with an artist for this project. Several slides and photos were shown to the council of this artist’s work. As a part of that presentation a rendering that was created by the artist was also displayed. This rendering showed the officer in a kneeling position. This was the artist interpretation and in no way was the final statue. The final position of the Officer for the statue had not and still has not been determined. Upon granting the contract to this artist, the Police Department and Art Design Council will work closely together to come up with the final rendering of the statue.There has been concern expressed from members of the community that the image of a kneeling officer is offensive and at the very least “tone deaf” given the current culture. I very much understand and agree with these concerns. As the Chief of Police, I will state that the final positioning of the statue will not be in a kneeling position. This statue must and will be a piece that every member of this community can appreciate as a memorial to those officers who gave their lives for the City of Hutchinson. Furthermore, this Statue must and will instill a sense of safety and welcome people into the Police Department.I have been working with the Human Relations Officer, David Sotelo over the last 24 hours, as he has been in communication with the Human Relations Commission. As part of this partnership Mr. Sotelo and I have heard the concerns of the Commission and others. I have personally asked Mr. Sotelo to sit on the sub-committee to work on the final design for the statue. In this way, Mr. Sotelo will represent these community concerns to ensure the statue represents the hopes and dreams of every citizen of Hutchinson, safety, security, and equality.

Police send joint release with human relations office regarding public art

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School’s student body will spend a morning in service learning on April 30.

The fourth Salthawk Service Day will be Friday, April 30 from 8 to 11 a.m. The date is an early-release day at HHS for its annual track meet.&nbsp;

The Kansas State Board of Education encourages all students to be involved in service, and the early release day is an opportunity for HHS to get students into the community in an organized event.

According to the state Board of Education, students who volunteer in their communities are more likely to vote, stay actively involved in service and feel empowered as citizens.

The day starts with attendance and instruction with students fanning out across the community to a wide range of projects at 8:10 a.m. Projects range from maintenance and clean-up at several locations in the city to baking cookies for firefighters and police officers, holding a garage sale for United Way and visiting nursing home residents.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575668793667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson High School’s student body will spend a morning in service learning on April 30.The fourth Salthawk Service Day will be Friday, April 30 from 8 to 11 a.m. The date is an early-release day at HHS for its annual track meet.&nbsp;The Kansas State Board of Education encourages all students to be involved in service, and the early release day is an opportunity for HHS to get students into the community in an organized event.According to the state Board of Education, students who volunteer in their communities are more likely to vote, stay actively involved in service and feel empowered as citizens.The day starts with attendance and instruction with students fanning out across the community to a wide range of projects at 8:10 a.m. Projects range from maintenance and clean-up at several locations in the city to baking cookies for firefighters and police officers, holding a garage sale for United Way and visiting nursing home residents.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

USD 308 holds service learning day April 30


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council approved Tuesday the public art portion of the law enforcement center project.

"We were really impressed with Mr. Warren," said Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper. "This is a project that he normally wouldn't take on. It's way below the size and scope of the projects that he usually takes on here, much grander projects. His father was a former police chief and so, it kind of touched his heart being able to do a sculpture for us and honoring fallen officers. That's why he's chosen to take on this project."

Thomas Jay Warren has over 30 years full-time professional sculpting experience and is an elected member of the National Sculpture Society. His work for Hutchinson will be unique to the city.

"The sculpture will be life-size, but kneeling, so that you're basically at eye-level with the officer," said Justin Combs, Director of Parks and Facilities.

The sculpture will incorporate the city's official patch and the equipment on the officer's duty belt, molded from originals and reproduced on the figure. The city approved $50,000 for the project Tuesday.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619103250750.jpeg" alt="RenderingofSculpture2.jpg" />
 <figcaption>RenderingofSculpture2.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council approved Tuesday the public art portion of the law enforcement center project."We were really impressed with Mr. Warren," said Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper. "This is a project that he normally wouldn't take on. It's way below the size and scope of the projects that he usually takes on here, much grander projects. His father was a former police chief and so, it kind of touched his heart being able to do a sculpture for us and honoring fallen officers. That's why he's chosen to take on this project."Thomas Jay Warren has over 30 years full-time professional sculpting experience and is an elected member of the National Sculpture Society. His work for Hutchinson will be unique to the city."The sculpture will be life-size, but kneeling, so that you're basically at eye-level with the officer," said Justin Combs, Director of Parks and Facilities.The sculpture will incorporate the city's official patch and the equipment on the officer's duty belt, molded from originals and reproduced on the figure. The city approved $50,000 for the project Tuesday.

Art portion of law enforcement center project approved

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Union Pacific saw its earnings slide under pressure from the pandemic and the arctic weather in the first quarter of 2021. The nation's largest railroad reported net income of $1.3 billion compared to $1.5 billion last year.&nbsp;

“The first quarter presented some real challenges that impacted our results, but the team did a great job managing the business,” said Lance Fritz, Union Pacific chairman, president, and chief executive officer. “We generated solid productivity through efficient use of our resources despite the significant weather event that covered most of our network in February and early March. I am particularly proud of the women and men of Union Pacific who rolled up their sleeves and kept the network safe, efficient and stable.”

Operating revenue was $5 billion which was down 4%. Car loads declined as well with freight revenue dropping 5%. Only grain and intermodal shipments increased in the quarter.

UP averages about 25 trains per day through the area and is the fourth largest property tax payer in the county at $1.19 million and a total valuation of more than $7.2 million.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619102413868.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Union Pacific saw its earnings slide under pressure from the pandemic and the arctic weather in the first quarter of 2021. The nation's largest railroad reported net income of $1.3 billion compared to $1.5 billion last year.&nbsp;“The first quarter presented some real challenges that impacted our results, but the team did a great job managing the business,” said Lance Fritz, Union Pacific chairman, president, and chief executive officer. “We generated solid productivity through efficient use of our resources despite the significant weather event that covered most of our network in February and early March. I am particularly proud of the women and men of Union Pacific who rolled up their sleeves and kept the network safe, efficient and stable.”Operating revenue was $5 billion which was down 4%. Car loads declined as well with freight revenue dropping 5%. Only grain and intermodal shipments increased in the quarter.UP averages about 25 trains per day through the area and is the fourth largest property tax payer in the county at $1.19 million and a total valuation of more than $7.2 million.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UP reports sluggish 1Q

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>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<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>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Public Works announced that Longview Road will remain closed to all traffic through Thursday from Woodberry to Worthington.&nbsp;

Crews are replacing a cross road pipe. The area is located six miles northeast of Haven. If you have any questions about this or any other county road project contact public works at 620-694-2976.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616104351249.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Public Works announced that Longview Road will remain closed to all traffic through Thursday from Woodberry to Worthington.&nbsp;Crews are replacing a cross road pipe. The area is located six miles northeast of Haven. If you have any questions about this or any other county road project contact public works at 620-694-2976.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Longview Road closed near Haven


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Graduation plans in USD 308 are adjusted somewhat this year due to the pandemic.

"It's kind of a combination of 2019 and before and 2020," said spokesperson Ray Hemman. "We've moved it back to the 2019 date of the Sunday before our last day of school. What's different is, historically, we've held it at the Sports Arena. This year, because of COVID and being able to spread people out better, we're keeping it where we had it last summer for the class of 2020, doing it at Gowans."

They do have a backup plan if weather becomes an issue.

"On the Friday before, the 21st, if it does look like Sunday will be a rainy, nasty day, we can move it into the Sports Arena," Hemman said. "We'll have a few more limits on attendance, but we do have that fallback."

The attendance restrictions are also subject to where the virus numbers are when we get to that time.

"Each graduate will be allowed eight guests," Hemman said. "That could change, depending on what we're looking at as we get closer. I don't think that will change, but it could."

Wearing a mask is recommended and may be required depending upon policy at the time of graduation.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Graduation plans in USD 308 are adjusted somewhat this year due to the pandemic."It's kind of a combination of 2019 and before and 2020," said spokesperson Ray Hemman. "We've moved it back to the 2019 date of the Sunday before our last day of school. What's different is, historically, we've held it at the Sports Arena. This year, because of COVID and being able to spread people out better, we're keeping it where we had it last summer for the class of 2020, doing it at Gowans."They do have a backup plan if weather becomes an issue."On the Friday before, the 21st, if it does look like Sunday will be a rainy, nasty day, we can move it into the Sports Arena," Hemman said. "We'll have a few more limits on attendance, but we do have that fallback."The attendance restrictions are also subject to where the virus numbers are when we get to that time."Each graduate will be allowed eight guests," Hemman said. "That could change, depending on what we're looking at as we get closer. I don't think that will change, but it could."Wearing a mask is recommended and may be required depending upon policy at the time of graduation.
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Graduation will be on traditional date, but outside in USD 308

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced Wednesday several additions and promotions in its leadership and sales teams. The changes support Superior’s expansion in Hutchinson, Kansas, with the relocation of its Richmond, Virginia, manufacturing facility.

Mark Yates has been promoted to National Sales Manager, Watertube Boiler Division. Yates will oversee growth strategies for the watertube boiler business, with responsibility for customer development, sales representative network support and marketing initiatives. Yates previously was Assistant Operations Manager for Superior’s Hutchinson boiler manufacturing operations. &nbsp;

Andy Burns has been promoted to Technical Sales Manager for the expansion. Burns previously served as a mechanical engineer supporting the sales and execution side of the business.&nbsp; And Michael Bruce has joined Superior as Operations Manager for the new division, where he will lead and manage all manufacturing operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bob Obermite has been named Director of Facilities Maintenance for Superior Boiler. Obermite will lead the team responsible for maintaining Superior’s manufacturing facilities and capital machinery.&nbsp;

The relocation of Superior’s Richmond operations will consolidate all of the company’s manufacturing expertise in Hutchinson. The transition is expected to be complete by the middle of 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619020103367.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Superior Boiler announced Wednesday several additions and promotions in its leadership and sales teams. The changes support Superior’s expansion in Hutchinson, Kansas, with the relocation of its Richmond, Virginia, manufacturing facility.Mark Yates has been promoted to National Sales Manager, Watertube Boiler Division. Yates will oversee growth strategies for the watertube boiler business, with responsibility for customer development, sales representative network support and marketing initiatives. Yates previously was Assistant Operations Manager for Superior’s Hutchinson boiler manufacturing operations. &nbsp;Andy Burns has been promoted to Technical Sales Manager for the expansion. Burns previously served as a mechanical engineer supporting the sales and execution side of the business.&nbsp; And Michael Bruce has joined Superior as Operations Manager for the new division, where he will lead and manage all manufacturing operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bob Obermite has been named Director of Facilities Maintenance for Superior Boiler. Obermite will lead the team responsible for maintaining Superior’s manufacturing facilities and capital machinery.&nbsp;The relocation of Superior’s Richmond operations will consolidate all of the company’s manufacturing expertise in Hutchinson. The transition is expected to be complete by the middle of 2021.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Superior Boiler announces promotions for new expansion

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The quarterly earnings parade kicks off again on Thursday when Union Pacific releases its first-quarter earnings.

The nation's largest railroad had a strong ending to the year financially despite the challenges from declining car loads and the pandemic. A more streamlined operation and lower fuel prices allowed UP to post adjusted fourth quarter earnings of $1.6 billion, compared with $1.4 billion in 2019.

Operating revenue of $5.1 billion was down 1% in fourth quarter 2020 compared to fourth quarter 2019.&nbsp;

Union Pacific operates about 25 trains per day through Reno County and is in the middle of a major renovation project in the Whiteside area. That project is expected to last through the summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560465551027.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The quarterly earnings parade kicks off again on Thursday when Union Pacific releases its first-quarter earnings.The nation's largest railroad had a strong ending to the year financially despite the challenges from declining car loads and the pandemic. A more streamlined operation and lower fuel prices allowed UP to post adjusted fourth quarter earnings of $1.6 billion, compared with $1.4 billion in 2019.Operating revenue of $5.1 billion was down 1% in fourth quarter 2020 compared to fourth quarter 2019.&nbsp;Union Pacific operates about 25 trains per day through Reno County and is in the middle of a major renovation project in the Whiteside area. That project is expected to last through the summer.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Union Pacific releases 1Q report Thursday

NICKERSON, Kan. — Although no one showed up in person on Monday, the Nickerson City Council got plenty of response regarding the one-cent sales tax during their workshop Monday. The tax sunsets in 2022. If citizens want to see it extended, it must be put to a vote this year.

“We had some good feedback from Facebook posts from a few citizens,” City Clerk April Beshears said. “We didn’t have anybody show up to the meeting, which was kind of disappointing, but we did have a lot of them speak to their council representatives, so they brought the ideas for them.”

Beshears says most of the residents were positive about the things that tax has paid for including new park equipment and sewer line improvements.

“It went really well,” Beshears said. “We had a lot of really good ideas. They talked about everything from park improvements, more improvements, a possible skate park, water park expansion, to dealing with our sewer line improvements.”

There was some discussion about using the funds to repair or replace the city’s weather alert siren. Beshears says the public is somewhat divided on spending funds for that. Beshears says the city may entertain the idea of providing weather radios for all residents.

The tax was originally used to fund the community building. After it was extended by a vote from the public, the tax was then earmarked for the parks and public works infrastructure. The tax generates about $65,000 per year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597851283659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — Although no one showed up in person on Monday, the Nickerson City Council got plenty of response regarding the one-cent sales tax during their workshop Monday. The tax sunsets in 2022. If citizens want to see it extended, it must be put to a vote this year.“We had some good feedback from Facebook posts from a few citizens,” City Clerk April Beshears said. “We didn’t have anybody show up to the meeting, which was kind of disappointing, but we did have a lot of them speak to their council representatives, so they brought the ideas for them.”Beshears says most of the residents were positive about the things that tax has paid for including new park equipment and sewer line improvements.“It went really well,” Beshears said. “We had a lot of really good ideas. They talked about everything from park improvements, more improvements, a possible skate park, water park expansion, to dealing with our sewer line improvements.”There was some discussion about using the funds to repair or replace the city’s weather alert siren. Beshears says the public is somewhat divided on spending funds for that. Beshears says the city may entertain the idea of providing weather radios for all residents.The tax was originally used to fund the community building. After it was extended by a vote from the public, the tax was then earmarked for the parks and public works infrastructure. The tax generates about $65,000 per year.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Good feedback comes from Nickerson sales tax workshop


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton is joining with other community members on Thursday to hold a community candle lighting ceremony to commemorate National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

"Often times, in the criminal justice system, the victim is forgotten," Stanton said. "We've seen that over and over. We also see many instances of the victim being revictimized by the system itself. When we come together as a community to support victims, not only victims of serious crimes, but all crimes, we are acting in community in that support."

Regardless of what the crime is, victims are changed mentally.

"That can be any type of crime," Stanton said. "It can be somebody losing a precious item to theft. It can be someone whose home has been burglarized and who never then again feels safe in their own home. Or, it can be a victim of sexual assault or it can be a victim of murder and the victims of those crimes are also the families."

The ceremony is at the South Hutchinson Community Center at 101 West Avenue C starting at 6:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619017048317.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton is joining with other community members on Thursday to hold a community candle lighting ceremony to commemorate National Crime Victims' Rights Week."Often times, in the criminal justice system, the victim is forgotten," Stanton said. "We've seen that over and over. We also see many instances of the victim being revictimized by the system itself. When we come together as a community to support victims, not only victims of serious crimes, but all crimes, we are acting in community in that support."Regardless of what the crime is, victims are changed mentally."That can be any type of crime," Stanton said. "It can be somebody losing a precious item to theft. It can be someone whose home has been burglarized and who never then again feels safe in their own home. Or, it can be a victim of sexual assault or it can be a victim of murder and the victims of those crimes are also the families."The ceremony is at the South Hutchinson Community Center at 101 West Avenue C starting at 6:30 p.m.
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Crime Victims' Rights Week ceremony Thursday in South Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Guardians Of The Children is holding its 11th Annual Kid's Day at the Hutchinson Zoo Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The kid's day will feature live music from Ultimate Cheese, free train rides, food, fun, games and bounce houses for the kids. 

The chapter is asking Hutchinson residents to donate bicycles or unwrapped toys to the event.

If you have a new bicycle or unwrapped toy that you would like to donate please contact chapter president Handy at (620) 960-8044.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619004802612.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Guardians Of The Children is holding its 11th Annual Kid's Day at the Hutchinson Zoo Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The kid's day will feature live music from Ultimate Cheese, free train rides, food, fun, games and bounce houses for the kids. The chapter is asking Hutchinson residents to donate bicycles or unwrapped toys to the event.If you have a new bicycle or unwrapped toy that you would like to donate please contact chapter president Handy at (620) 960-8044.April is Child Abuse Prevention Month.
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Guardians of the Children chapter holding kids event Saturday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutch in Harmony is holding a candlelight event to allow the community to mourn following the verdict in the trial of the police officer responsible for the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. 

"With the Chauvin trial having reached a verdict, we still feel the ache of loss for George Floyd and though steps of accountability have been taken, justice will never be truly served for him nor for the many lives senselessly taken due to white supremacy and police brutality.

"So join us Wednesday for an evening of community mourning, remembrance, and resolve. An evening to find togetherness in our anguish and comfort in our joined resolve to further justice in our community and nation.

"We will be meeting in Chester I Lewis Plaza at 8:00 p.m. Bring candles, flashlights, or phone lights if you can - we will have some candles available as well. We will also have a memorial set up, if anyone would like to leave flowers or tokens.

"If you're able, we'll be wearing white in some small way as a symbol of our mourning.

Please dress warmly and don't forget your masks."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618236312241.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutch in Harmony is holding a candlelight event to allow the community to mourn following the verdict in the trial of the police officer responsible for the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The group said on Facebook, "With the Chauvin trial having reached a verdict, we still feel the ache of loss for George Floyd and though steps of accountability have been taken, justice will never be truly served for him nor for the many lives senselessly taken due to white supremacy and police brutality."So join us Wednesday for an evening of community mourning, remembrance, and resolve. An evening to find togetherness in our anguish and comfort in our joined resolve to further justice in our community and nation."We will be meeting in Chester I Lewis Plaza at 8:00 p.m. Bring candles, flashlights, or phone lights if you can - we will have some candles available as well. We will also have a memorial set up, if anyone would like to leave flowers or tokens."If you're able, we'll be wearing white in some small way as a symbol of our mourning.Please dress warmly and don't forget your masks."
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sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Candlelight event to be held Wednesday in Hutchinson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;City of Hutchinson Public Works Director Brian Clennan gave the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday an update on how potholes are repaired in the city.

"We do have budget to repair potholes," said Clennan. "Our goal is to repair all potholes within two business days, so if somebody calls in on Wednesday, our goal is to have that pothole repaired by the end of the day on Friday."

They aren't always able to meet that goal, especially if there are a lot at once. Frankly, they're shorthanded.

"In 2020, we kept eight positions vacant due to the concerns of our budget with the COVID-19 pandemic," Clennan said. "That left us with 10 front line employees to do our street maintenance work. Eight of those employees are on crack sealing, which is an extremely important preventative maintenance program for our streets. About 60% of the year, we've got eight employees dedicated to crack sealing."

In 2020, the city purchased an FP5 patch truck.

"From July of last year through March of this year, where the truck's been patching, we've patched approximately 1100 potholes, using 110 tons of asphalt," said Public Works employee Jesse Weisgarber.

The city received less than 100 pothole complaints in the ten months they have owned the truck.

"We would like our customers, the users of the streets, if they see a pothole, please let us know," said Weisgarber. "Call 694-1900. You can <a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/MyAccount?from=url&amp;url=%2fRequestTracker.aspx%3fstrAction%3dLogin%26ysnSave%3d1%26newURL%3d%2fforms.aspx%3ffid%3d69">go to the website and hit report a concern and let us know about those potholes</a>. We need that help because there's just a tremendous amount of pavement out there that we're responsible to maintain."

Clennan was asked if they need a second truck, he said one truck is enough for the potholes they have reported and those they have found at this point.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618948052809.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;City of Hutchinson Public Works Director Brian Clennan gave the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday an update on how potholes are repaired in the city."We do have budget to repair potholes," said Clennan. "Our goal is to repair all potholes within two business days, so if somebody calls in on Wednesday, our goal is to have that pothole repaired by the end of the day on Friday."They aren't always able to meet that goal, especially if there are a lot at once. Frankly, they're shorthanded."In 2020, we kept eight positions vacant due to the concerns of our budget with the COVID-19 pandemic," Clennan said. "That left us with 10 front line employees to do our street maintenance work. Eight of those employees are on crack sealing, which is an extremely important preventative maintenance program for our streets. About 60% of the year, we've got eight employees dedicated to crack sealing."In 2020, the city purchased an FP5 patch truck."From July of last year through March of this year, where the truck's been patching, we've patched approximately 1100 potholes, using 110 tons of asphalt," said Public Works employee Jesse Weisgarber.The city received less than 100 pothole complaints in the ten months they have owned the truck."We would like our customers, the users of the streets, if they see a pothole, please let us know," said Weisgarber. "Call 694-1900. You can <a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/MyAccount?from=url&amp;url=%2fRequestTracker.aspx%3fstrAction%3dLogin%26ysnSave%3d1%26newURL%3d%2fforms.aspx%3ffid%3d69">go to the website and hit report a concern and let us know about those potholes</a>. We need that help because there's just a tremendous amount of pavement out there that we're responsible to maintain."Clennan was asked if they need a second truck, he said one truck is enough for the potholes they have reported and those they have found at this point.

Hutchinson City Council gets report on pothole repairs


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council is going to let City Manager Jeff Cantrell try to make a deal with the owner of the Atrium Hotel to get it under city control. Christopher Parker with the NJCAA came to the meeting while he was in town to express his support for making a move.

"From my seat as the President and CEO of the national organization, I think it's critical," Parker said. "I hate that our teams are staying an hour away and not spending their dollars right here in Hutchinson, when the tournament's in Hutchinson. Having that convention center, having some type of more available hotel rooms, again, we've maxed out and that's just in a year when there aren't a lot of people coming in from out of town."

Parker also alluded to potential future opportunities for the city if it can get those additional rooms.

"If we want to bring more tournaments here, we're going to need that space," Parker said. "Those are commitments we can make as those opportunities come forward. I would highly encourage all of you to evaluate that and to give a blessing for moving forward with anything that you can."

The goal is to ultimately pay for the improvements with a transient guest tax increase of 1%, but there may or may not need to be bonding for the demolition of the old hotel depending on how quickly a developer could be found for a potential project.

"There's some occasions where you could even use temporary notes to front fund a project like this," said City Manager Jeff Cantrell. "Normally, those are short term, 36 months is about the most you see on those, but you might even be able to use those to blend into the streamlined collections, anticipating that 1% addition."

This would take the transient guest tax from 7% to 8% in the community, but that would still leave Hutchinson competitive in that rate with the close in communities that would be competing for conventions and the like.

"There are at least 10 cities in Kansas that have a higher transient guest tax than Hutchinson," said Chamber CEO Debra Teufel. "I think some were in the order of 9% and then there were a fair number that were at 8% and then some that match our 7%. I think, if you increase by 1%, it would still keep us in line with the competition in Kansas and we'd still be less than some."

It's not that fixing the Atrium would likely fix the whole lodging issue, as a new developer would probably build a hotel portion with fewer rooms than the Atrium previously had.

"We think the amenities of this convention center still have value," Teufel said. "I think what Jeff is proposing, to acquire the property, would not be scraping the whole property clear, but maintaining that 30,000 square feet of convention space that's already built that does have some value and then building a hotel adjacent to it that's probably in the 100 hotel room space."

The Atrium had over 200 rooms when it was operating. State Fair General Manager Ed Berger also talked about how the activities at the fairgrounds draw guests as well and not just in September.

"The Kansas State Fair is a strong draw for ag tourism throughout the year, not just the ten days of the fair," Berger said. "Don't just look at those ten days. Look at 360 days, that's what that's all about. We have events, everything from Skills USA to livestock shows. A couple weeks ago, we had a horse show, we had a rabbit show."

Berger put a bottom line to it. He's concerned about the fair's finances if they can't bring in the crowds they need for their events due to a lack of hotel rooms. 

The council would still have to look at and approve any agreement made between the City Manager and the current owner, as well as any potential development agreement when it occurs and those moves would happen at public meetings where input would be sought. 

It's also important to remember that the transient guest tax or the bed tax would be paid by the people that come and use the hotels in the city, the general population of Hutchinson would not incur that tax, unless they chose to rent a room for the night for some reason.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1606857027486.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council is going to let City Manager Jeff Cantrell try to make a deal with the owner of the Atrium Hotel to get it under city control. Christopher Parker with the NJCAA came to the meeting while he was in town to express his support for making a move."From my seat as the President and CEO of the national organization, I think it's critical," Parker said. "I hate that our teams are staying an hour away and not spending their dollars right here in Hutchinson, when the tournament's in Hutchinson. Having that convention center, having some type of more available hotel rooms, again, we've maxed out and that's just in a year when there aren't a lot of people coming in from out of town."Parker also alluded to potential future opportunities for the city if it can get those additional rooms."If we want to bring more tournaments here, we're going to need that space," Parker said. "Those are commitments we can make as those opportunities come forward. I would highly encourage all of you to evaluate that and to give a blessing for moving forward with anything that you can."The goal is to ultimately pay for the improvements with a transient guest tax increase of 1%, but there may or may not need to be bonding for the demolition of the old hotel depending on how quickly a developer could be found for a potential project."There's some occasions where you could even use temporary notes to front fund a project like this," said City Manager Jeff Cantrell. "Normally, those are short term, 36 months is about the most you see on those, but you might even be able to use those to blend into the streamlined collections, anticipating that 1% addition."This would take the transient guest tax from 7% to 8% in the community, but that would still leave Hutchinson competitive in that rate with the close in communities that would be competing for conventions and the like."There are at least 10 cities in Kansas that have a higher transient guest tax than Hutchinson," said Chamber CEO Debra Teufel. "I think some were in the order of 9% and then there were a fair number that were at 8% and then some that match our 7%. I think, if you increase by 1%, it would still keep us in line with the competition in Kansas and we'd still be less than some."It's not that fixing the Atrium would likely fix the whole lodging issue, as a new developer would probably build a hotel portion with fewer rooms than the Atrium previously had."We think the amenities of this convention center still have value," Teufel said. "I think what Jeff is proposing, to acquire the property, would not be scraping the whole property clear, but maintaining that 30,000 square feet of convention space that's already built that does have some value and then building a hotel adjacent to it that's probably in the 100 hotel room space."The Atrium had over 200 rooms when it was operating. State Fair General Manager Ed Berger also talked about how the activities at the fairgrounds draw guests as well and not just in September."The Kansas State Fair is a strong draw for ag tourism throughout the year, not just the ten days of the fair," Berger said. "Don't just look at those ten days. Look at 360 days, that's what that's all about. We have events, everything from Skills USA to livestock shows. A couple weeks ago, we had a horse show, we had a rabbit show."Berger put a bottom line to it. He's concerned about the fair's finances if they can't bring in the crowds they need for their events due to a lack of hotel rooms. The council would still have to look at and approve any agreement made between the City Manager and the current owner, as well as any potential development agreement when it occurs and those moves would happen at public meetings where input would be sought. It's also important to remember that the transient guest tax or the bed tax would be paid by the people that come and use the hotels in the city, the general population of Hutchinson would not incur that tax, unless they chose to rent a room for the night for some reason.

Hutchinson City Council to let manager explore Atrium Hotel deal

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven City Council gave approval to hire a professional expert to assist in legal action the city is in over the city pool.

Dr David Hanks was hired following an executive session during Monday’s agenda session. The city and the company that was hired to renovate the pool three years ago are still tied up in a legal fight in Reno County District Court.

The pool was closed after repairs failed to fix issues brought on by the renovation. The city announced that the pool would remain closed again this summer because of the legal action being taken.

Also Monday night, the council approved a 1% pay increase for city employee Andrea Williams, and approved a resolution offering pay increases for city employees that was approved at an earlier meeting. And the council approved the two Haven Scholarships to Haven High students Nikkie Kenast and Darby Roper. Each will receive $500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090767638.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven City Council gave approval to hire a professional expert to assist in legal action the city is in over the city pool.Dr David Hanks was hired following an executive session during Monday’s agenda session. The city and the company that was hired to renovate the pool three years ago are still tied up in a legal fight in Reno County District Court.The pool was closed after repairs failed to fix issues brought on by the renovation. The city announced that the pool would remain closed again this summer because of the legal action being taken.Also Monday night, the council approved a 1% pay increase for city employee Andrea Williams, and approved a resolution offering pay increases for city employees that was approved at an earlier meeting. And the council approved the two Haven Scholarships to Haven High students Nikkie Kenast and Darby Roper. Each will receive $500.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven hires expert to deal with pool

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two men arrested in connection with the April 11 shooting that left one man dead and another injured have been formally charged in Reno County District Court.

Sixty-four-year-old Sandral Wade is charged with one count of first- degree murder in the shooting death of Orlando Gipson. He’s also charged with attempted first-degree murder in the shooting of Landre Bowie, and charged with conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. A conviction would land him in prison for life without parole for at least 50 years.

The co-defendant in the case, 71-year-old Robert Lagrange faces a single count of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 41 years in prison. Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton told the court that the investigation continues and the complaint against Lagrange could be amended upward.&nbsp;

The two were arrested in connection with the early morning shooting in the 1500 block of West 12th Avenue. Officers arrived at the scene and found Bowie laying in the street with gunshot wounds to his abdomen. He was transferred to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for treatment and survived.&nbsp;

Officers then located Gipson in the front yard of a nearby residence with a single gunshot wound to his chest. He was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

Wade was appointed a public defender while Lagrange was appointed Steve Osborn to be his attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618271614352.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two men arrested in connection with the April 11 shooting that left one man dead and another injured have been formally charged in Reno County District Court.Sixty-four-year-old Sandral Wade is charged with one count of first- degree murder in the shooting death of Orlando Gipson. He’s also charged with attempted first-degree murder in the shooting of Landre Bowie, and charged with conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. A conviction would land him in prison for life without parole for at least 50 years.The co-defendant in the case, 71-year-old Robert Lagrange faces a single count of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 41 years in prison. Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton told the court that the investigation continues and the complaint against Lagrange could be amended upward.&nbsp;The two were arrested in connection with the early morning shooting in the 1500 block of West 12th Avenue. Officers arrived at the scene and found Bowie laying in the street with gunshot wounds to his abdomen. He was transferred to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for treatment and survived.&nbsp;Officers then located Gipson in the front yard of a nearby residence with a single gunshot wound to his chest. He was taken to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.Wade was appointed a public defender while Lagrange was appointed Steve Osborn to be his attorney.Both are expected back in court June 16.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Formal charges brought in homicide case

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly breakfast Wednesday at 8:30 in person at the Cosmosphere.

The event will also include a virtual option as well. The event is sponsored by the NJCAA and the guest speaker will be Bridgette Jobe, Director of Tourism for the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism.&nbsp;

The cost for members is $15 for in-person attendees and $10 for virtual attendees.&nbsp; In-person seating will be limited, so advance registration is required for all attendees, even for Flash Pass cardholders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594396687816.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly breakfast Wednesday at 8:30 in person at the Cosmosphere.The event will also include a virtual option as well. The event is sponsored by the NJCAA and the guest speaker will be Bridgette Jobe, Director of Tourism for the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism.&nbsp;The cost for members is $15 for in-person attendees and $10 for virtual attendees.&nbsp; In-person seating will be limited, so advance registration is required for all attendees, even for Flash Pass cardholders.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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