HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Earnings reports for companies with ties to the Hutchinson area continued to show the strain of the pandemic.

Siemens Gamesa reported Wednesday that it booked a total net loss of $172 million in its fiscal second quarter, down more than 400% on the $52.8 million profit in the same period last year.

The company cited a $53 million hit on profitability related to the COVID-19 pandemic, equivalent to 2.5% of revenues, as the chief reason for the performance in the period January to March. Revenue was 8% lower at $2.37 billion.

The public health emergency further complicated existing challenges in its onshore business such as the execution of projects in Northern Europe and the slowdown in India, the German-Spanish manufacturer said.

Siemens Gamesa said it has taken measures to deal with the pandemic, including re-routing certain supply chains, optimizing remote monitoring to guarantee service operations and extending periods for maintenance teams working at sea. It also forced the company to lay off a number of workers at both the Hutchinson nacelle and Fort Madison, Iowa, blade facilities.

The company, which withdrew guidance for the year recently, nevertheless said the long-term prospects for the industry and Siemens Gamesa remain sound.

The manufacturer has built a record order backlog of $26.3 billion and said in its release that it’s "well positioned to take advantage of sector growth outlook thanks to its geographical diversification and leadership in technology."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588797814871.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Earnings reports for companies with ties to the Hutchinson area continued to show the strain of the pandemic.Siemens Gamesa reported Wednesday that it booked a total net loss of $172 million in its fiscal second quarter, down more than 400% on the $52.8 million profit in the same period last year.The company cited a $53 million hit on profitability related to the COVID-19 pandemic, equivalent to 2.5% of revenues, as the chief reason for the performance in the period January to March. Revenue was 8% lower at $2.37 billion.The public health emergency further complicated existing challenges in its onshore business such as the execution of projects in Northern Europe and the slowdown in India, the German-Spanish manufacturer said.Siemens Gamesa said it has taken measures to deal with the pandemic, including re-routing certain supply chains, optimizing remote monitoring to guarantee service operations and extending periods for maintenance teams working at sea. It also forced the company to lay off a number of workers at both the Hutchinson nacelle and Fort Madison, Iowa, blade facilities.The company, which withdrew guidance for the year recently, nevertheless said the long-term prospects for the industry and Siemens Gamesa remain sound.The manufacturer has built a record order backlog of $26.3 billion and said in its release that it’s "well positioned to take advantage of sector growth outlook thanks to its geographical diversification and leadership in technology."

Siemens Gamesa falls into the red in 2Q report

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Many restaurants are open again in Hutchinson or will open soon. Some continue to exercise on the side of caution and will still offer curbside or other types of delivery.

Anchor Inn, Applebees, Carlos O’Kelly’s, Gambinos, Metro To Go, Mr. Cao, Polo, Rusty Needle, and Texas T-Bone all opened their doors Monday for inside seating with restrictions on capacity in place as per state orders.

Other notable eateries in the area to open include:

Salt City Brewing (outside seating) Skaets, Jillian’s (patio seating only, Carriage Crossing, the Anchor Mexican Grill, Hog Wild and Dutch Kitchen. The Airport Steak House and the Firehouse Cafe are set to open Thursday. Nearly all restaurants in the area are providing limited services such as carryout and delivery.

Pizza Ranch will open its doors for inside service May 18.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584664084740.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Many restaurants are open again in Hutchinson or will open soon. Some continue to exercise on the side of caution and will still offer curbside or other types of delivery.Anchor Inn, Applebees, Carlos O’Kelly’s, Gambinos, Metro To Go, Mr. Cao, Polo, Rusty Needle, and Texas T-Bone all opened their doors Monday for inside seating with restrictions on capacity in place as per state orders.Other notable eateries in the area to open include:Salt City Brewing (outside seating) Skaets, Jillian’s (patio seating only, Carriage Crossing, the Anchor Mexican Grill, Hog Wild and Dutch Kitchen. The Airport Steak House and the Firehouse Cafe are set to open Thursday. Nearly all restaurants in the area are providing limited services such as carryout and delivery.Pizza Ranch will open its doors for inside service May 18.

Many area restaurants starting to open up inside seating

KWBW has added Ben Shapiro to its weeknight lineup. 

Ben Shapiro is editor-in-chief of DailyWire.com, and host of "The Ben Shapiro Show," the top conservative podcast in the nation, and a leading conservative speaker on college campuses, consistently defending free speech and open debate. 

Shapiro is the author of seven books, including The New York Times bestseller, "Bullies: How the Left’s Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences America" (2012). Shapiro is also a nationally syndicated columnist since age 17, and a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School.

Shapiro's show will run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on nights without sports, and follow sporting events on nights with games.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;KWBW has added Ben Shapiro to its weeknight lineup. Ben Shapiro is editor-in-chief of DailyWire.com, and host of "The Ben Shapiro Show," the top conservative podcast in the nation, and a leading conservative speaker on college campuses, consistently defending free speech and open debate. Shapiro is the author of seven books, including The New York Times bestseller, "Bullies: How the Left’s Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences America" (2012). Shapiro is also a nationally syndicated columnist since age 17, and a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School.Shapiro's show will run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on nights without sports, and follow sporting events on nights with games.

Ben Shapiro Show now on KWBW weeknights 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tyson Foods fell far short of fiscal Q2 forecasts early Monday, a week after issuing a warning about the coronavirus hitting the supply chain for meat.

The meat products company still delivered record sales of $10.88 billion in the second quarter compared with $10.44 billion in 2019.

Tyson said it expects cattle supplies to increase by 2% this year. Pork supplies are expected to increase 5% with livestock costs down and export markets more available later this year.

The prepared foods division held steady through the second quarter with sales totaling $2 billion, a drop of a fraction of a percentage point. However, a fall in the demand for such products from restaurants caused operating income to fall by $45 million.

Tyson has been under pressure due to plants closing during the pandemic. Meatpacking plants have seen some of the highest cases of COVID-19. The pandemic has increased fears that shortages of meat products could be coming in the next few weeks. Some stores including Kroger stores have been limiting purchases of meat at their stores.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580940809667.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tyson Foods fell far short of fiscal Q2 forecasts early Monday, a week after issuing a warning about the coronavirus hitting the supply chain for meat.The meat products company still delivered record sales of $10.88 billion in the second quarter compared with $10.44 billion in 2019.Tyson said it expects cattle supplies to increase by 2% this year. Pork supplies are expected to increase 5% with livestock costs down and export markets more available later this year.The prepared foods division held steady through the second quarter with sales totaling $2 billion, a drop of a fraction of a percentage point. However, a fall in the demand for such products from restaurants caused operating income to fall by $45 million.Tyson has been under pressure due to plants closing during the pandemic. Meatpacking plants have seen some of the highest cases of COVID-19. The pandemic has increased fears that shortages of meat products could be coming in the next few weeks. Some stores including Kroger stores have been limiting purchases of meat at their stores.

Tyson reports 2Q numbers

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff's Department announced today that they will open up visitation at the Reno County Correctional Facility next week. 

Current plans are to reopen starting on May 11. There will still be restrictions for those wanting to visit and the department asks everyone to have patience. 

The department says only two visitors will be allowed into the lobby area at a time, this includes children. Once inside the lobby area, visitors should let the staff member know who you are here to visit and hold identification up to the glass so that the information can be seen.

A mask is required and must be furnished by the visitor and each inmate will only be allowed to have one visit per week.

The hours for visitation will be shortened to allow additional cleaning of the visitation area. Those hours are seven days a week from 9:00 until 11:30 a.m. 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and then 6:30 until 9 p.m.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff's Department announced today that they will open up visitation at the Reno County Correctional Facility next week. Current plans are to reopen starting on May 11. There will still be restrictions for those wanting to visit and the department asks everyone to have patience. The department says only two visitors will be allowed into the lobby area at a time, this includes children. Once inside the lobby area, visitors should let the staff member know who you are here to visit and hold identification up to the glass so that the information can be seen.A mask is required and must be furnished by the visitor and each inmate will only be allowed to have one visit per week.The hours for visitation will be shortened to allow additional cleaning of the visitation area. Those hours are seven days a week from 9:00 until 11:30 a.m. 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and then 6:30 until 9 p.m.

County correctional facility to open to visitors

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The COVID-19 mobile test site will be at the Kansas State Fairgrounds again Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

The site will be set up in the handicapped parking lot near gate 5 along State Fair Road. 

Once again, appointments are necessary and you will be screened about possible symptoms before getting an appointment. Appointments are available from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The tests are for anyone over the age of 18 who feel they may have symptoms of COVID-19 or anyone in the medical field along with all first responders.

For more information or to make an appointment go to doineedacovid19test.com.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The COVID-19 mobile test site will be at the Kansas State Fairgrounds again Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.The site will be set up in the handicapped parking lot near gate 5 along State Fair Road. Once again, appointments are necessary and you will be screened about possible symptoms before getting an appointment. Appointments are available from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.The tests are for anyone over the age of 18 who feel they may have symptoms of COVID-19 or anyone in the medical field along with all first responders.For more information or to make an appointment go to doineedacovid19test.com.

Mobile test site open again Thursday, Friday and Saturday

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Some road and bridge projects are getting underway in Reno County. 

Public Works says McKnew Road between Pretty Prairie Road and Boundary Road is now closed until May 17th for a bridge repair project. Crews are also preparing to replace a bridge on Centennial Road three miles east of Arlington. No word on when that road will reopen again.

Work has also begun on W. 4th Avenue. Workers are overlaying an 11-mile stretch of the two-lane west to Sego Road. 

If you have any questions about these or any other county construction projects, contact public works at 620-694-2976.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1564755565813.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Some road and bridge projects are getting underway in Reno County. Public Works says McKnew Road between Pretty Prairie Road and Boundary Road is now closed until May 17th for a bridge repair project. Crews are also preparing to replace a bridge on Centennial Road three miles east of Arlington. No word on when that road will reopen again.Work has also begun on W. 4th Avenue. Workers are overlaying an 11-mile stretch of the two-lane west to Sego Road. If you have any questions about these or any other county construction projects, contact public works at 620-694-2976.

Road and bridge work underway in the county

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Dillons is falling in line with its parent company, Kroger in placing limits on meat purchases.&nbsp;

While the store says they feel good about their ability to maintain a broad assortment of meat and seafood for their customers, slowdowns in production at processing plants mean shoppers will be limited on what they can purchase.

Dillons says there is plenty of beef and pork in the supply chain but said the limits were necessary to ensure all customers continue to have access to these products.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586259915010.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Dillons is falling in line with its parent company, Kroger in placing limits on meat purchases.&nbsp;While the store says they feel good about their ability to maintain a broad assortment of meat and seafood for their customers, slowdowns in production at processing plants mean shoppers will be limited on what they can purchase.Dillons says there is plenty of beef and pork in the supply chain but said the limits were necessary to ensure all customers continue to have access to these products.

Dillons to limit some meat purchases


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Oliver's Beef and Brew in Hutchinson will not be reopening.

Shad and Amanda Byard posted on Facebook Tuesday night their thanks to the customers over the last 7 years who have supported and grown with them.

County Seat Bar &amp; Grill in Lyons remains open for dine-in and carry-out and Oliver's Beef &amp; Brew in Little River does plan to reopen.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Oliver's Beef and Brew in Hutchinson will not be reopening.Shad and Amanda Byard posted on Facebook Tuesday night their thanks to the customers over the last 7 years who have supported and grown with them.County Seat Bar &amp; Grill in Lyons remains open for dine-in and carry-out and Oliver's Beef &amp; Brew in Little River does plan to reopen.

Oliver's Beef and Brew Hutchinson location will not reopen


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Cosmosphere is still currently closed to the public, but plans to reopen later this month.

"We've got several of our employees back in the facility," said CEO Jim Remar. "We're anticipating a reopening of May 22nd."

Hours of operation for the Cosmosphere will be 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

"We're committed to ensuring a safe work space, as well as a place for our visitors," Remar said. "We'll be doing routine cleaning and disinfecting throughout the day of the entire facility, but more importantly of high traffic areas. Our staff and employees will be equipped with masks and gloves. We'll have plexiglass at our point of sales and then social distancing marks on the floor."

The Cosmosphere does not plan to require masks for those who visit, but if you want to wear yours, that's okay.

"We would hope that the public, as they come back out, would also continue to practice proper social distancing and guidelines," Remar said. "We would hope that visitors would have masks on. We won't require them to have masks, but would hope that they would continue to practice some of the distancing guidelines that have already been set in place."

Also, seating in the Justice Planetarium, Carey Digital Dome theater and Dr. Goddard’s Lab will be limited to no more than 30 persons and attendees will be asked to adhere to social distancing guidelines, allowing for adequate space between themselves and other patron groups, though of course families that live together will be allowed to sit together as space permits.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Cosmosphere is still currently closed to the public, but plans to reopen later this month."We've got several of our employees back in the facility," said CEO Jim Remar. "We're anticipating a reopening of May 22nd."Hours of operation for the Cosmosphere will be 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday."We're committed to ensuring a safe work space, as well as a place for our visitors," Remar said. "We'll be doing routine cleaning and disinfecting throughout the day of the entire facility, but more importantly of high traffic areas. Our staff and employees will be equipped with masks and gloves. We'll have plexiglass at our point of sales and then social distancing marks on the floor."The Cosmosphere does not plan to require masks for those who visit, but if you want to wear yours, that's okay."We would hope that the public, as they come back out, would also continue to practice proper social distancing and guidelines," Remar said. "We would hope that visitors would have masks on. We won't require them to have masks, but would hope that they would continue to practice some of the distancing guidelines that have already been set in place."Also, seating in the Justice Planetarium, Carey Digital Dome theater and Dr. Goddard’s Lab will be limited to no more than 30 persons and attendees will be asked to adhere to social distancing guidelines, allowing for adequate space between themselves and other patron groups, though of course families that live together will be allowed to sit together as space permits.

Cosmosphere to reopen later this month


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper told the City Council Tuesday he was pleased with the bids they got for renovating the law enforcement center.

"The financial situation and what's going on in the world today has actually, by all our experts and by our architects, has really helped us with this project," Hooper said. "We were anticipating maybe it coming back in at $2.8 million or maybe even up to $3 million. We had some really competitive bids. There were seven contractors in total that bid on the project. Some of them out of Wichita would not normally bid on a project this small."

That process allowed the total cost of the project to approach the original levels anticipated back in 2017.

"Weins and Company came in with our lowest bid at $1,559,000," Hooper said. "You'll see in the memo that I sent you there that there's some additional parts of the project that are outside that general construction bid. We've got bids, in quotes, from those other various companies."

Those are mostly standing vendors for things like locks and IT infrastructure and the like.

"We put in a 10% contingency, which we think is probably going to be good enough for this project," Hooper said. "All in total, if we accept the Weins and Company bid, the project is estimated to cost $2,204,400."

That's a little more than $135,000 under the original estimate that came in. The council approved the bid Tuesday.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper told the City Council Tuesday he was pleased with the bids they got for renovating the law enforcement center."The financial situation and what's going on in the world today has actually, by all our experts and by our architects, has really helped us with this project," Hooper said. "We were anticipating maybe it coming back in at $2.8 million or maybe even up to $3 million. We had some really competitive bids. There were seven contractors in total that bid on the project. Some of them out of Wichita would not normally bid on a project this small."That process allowed the total cost of the project to approach the original levels anticipated back in 2017."Weins and Company came in with our lowest bid at $1,559,000," Hooper said. "You'll see in the memo that I sent you there that there's some additional parts of the project that are outside that general construction bid. We've got bids, in quotes, from those other various companies."Those are mostly standing vendors for things like locks and IT infrastructure and the like."We put in a 10% contingency, which we think is probably going to be good enough for this project," Hooper said. "All in total, if we accept the Weins and Company bid, the project is estimated to cost $2,204,400."That's a little more than $135,000 under the original estimate that came in. The council approved the bid Tuesday.

Bids on law enforcement center project lower than expected


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas State Senator Ed Berger believes that more of the decisions with regard to reopening the state's economy should have been left to the local level.

"Every county is different," Berger said. "If you look at Ford County, Ford County has upwards of almost 700 cases out there. That's a lot different than a Reno County and a Kingman County that has no cases. Every county is different. Every county commission can make those decisions, make those recommendations and I think decisions are best made at the local level."

Reno County's approach has been a model for other counties in the state.

"Our health department, our county commission, has done a great job taking a look at the parameters that are part of the Governor's plan and seeing how well we can work within that and how soon we can get back to business in Reno County," Berger said.

Reopening does need to be measured and that's why local control would be best in this case.

"I'm  not suggesting at all that we toss caution to the wind and don't take into consideration health issues," Berger said. "That's certainly something that has to be a priority and I think many of those at-risk populations will still have that stay at home feel and rightly so. They should be staying at home if they are one of those at-risk populations. I think, no one wants to risk life, but everybody also understands the importance of jobs and the economy as well. It's a delicate balance between the two."

The State of Kansas is still in Phase One of its reopening plan. Phase Two will not begin before May 18th and could be delayed depending on infection data.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas State Senator Ed Berger believes that more of the decisions with regard to reopening the state's economy should have been left to the local level."Every county is different," Berger said. "If you look at Ford County, Ford County has upwards of almost 700 cases out there. That's a lot different than a Reno County and a Kingman County that has no cases. Every county is different. Every county commission can make those decisions, make those recommendations and I think decisions are best made at the local level."Reno County's approach has been a model for other counties in the state."Our health department, our county commission, has done a great job taking a look at the parameters that are part of the Governor's plan and seeing how well we can work within that and how soon we can get back to business in Reno County," Berger said.Reopening does need to be measured and that's why local control would be best in this case."I'm not suggesting at all that we toss caution to the wind and don't take into consideration health issues," Berger said. "That's certainly something that has to be a priority and I think many of those at-risk populations will still have that stay at home feel and rightly so. They should be staying at home if they are one of those at-risk populations. I think, no one wants to risk life, but everybody also understands the importance of jobs and the economy as well. It's a delicate balance between the two."The State of Kansas is still in Phase One of its reopening plan. Phase Two will not begin before May 18th and could be delayed depending on infection data.

Berger: Reopening best left to local level


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The latest number for Match Day with the Hutchinson Community Foundation is massive. As of early Wednesday morning, Reno County had given nearly 2000 gifts totaling over $360,000.

"That is phenomenal," said Wendy Skellenger with the Foundation. "Thank you, Reno County! You turned out for our nonprofits. It has been a real journey. For some of us, it started at 6:00 in the morning. Kari Mailloux was on the radio bright and early and we all kind of took a turn at that. We're just so overwhelmed with how much support you have given this event and all of our nonprofits."

Not all of the gifts from Tuesday had been processed as of early Wednesday morning, so the numbers will likely go up before we get a final tally. As of Wednesday morning, Boys and Girls Clubs of Hutchinson had the top donation total with over $30,000 given. The Food Bank of Reno County had the most gifts with 176 givers donating to them. The 2016 record was $267,000.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The latest number for Match Day with the Hutchinson Community Foundation is massive. As of early Wednesday morning, Reno County had given nearly 2000 gifts totaling over $360,000."That is phenomenal," said Wendy Skellenger with the Foundation. "Thank you, Reno County! You turned out for our nonprofits. It has been a real journey. For some of us, it started at 6:00 in the morning. Kari Mailloux was on the radio bright and early and we all kind of took a turn at that. We're just so overwhelmed with how much support you have given this event and all of our nonprofits."Not all of the gifts from Tuesday had been processed as of early Wednesday morning, so the numbers will likely go up before we get a final tally. As of Wednesday morning, Boys and Girls Clubs of Hutchinson had the top donation total with over $30,000 given. The Food Bank of Reno County had the most gifts with 176 givers donating to them. The 2016 record was $267,000.

Match Day with over $360,000 in donations as of early Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre announced a new date for the Turtle Island Quartet and Cyrus Chestnut performance. The new date is Friday, Jan. 22, at 8 p.m.

If you have already purchased tickets for this event, hold on to them as they will be valid for the rescheduled date. If you opt not to keep your current tickets for the new date, you can contact the box office for a full refund by calling 620-663-1981 or emailing <a href="mailto:thefox@hutchinsonfox.com">thefox@hutchinsonfox.com</a>. Please include the full name as it appears on your ticket order and, if possible, the order number.

Recent credit card orders will be refunded back to the card. Other credit card orders and all orders paid via cash or check will be refunded via company check from the Fox Theatre and mailed to the billing address on file.

Up-to-date status for all other Fox events can be found on the website: <a href="http://www.hutchinsonfox.com">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588712187041.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre announced a new date for the Turtle Island Quartet and Cyrus Chestnut performance. The new date is Friday, Jan. 22, at 8 p.m.If you have already purchased tickets for this event, hold on to them as they will be valid for the rescheduled date. If you opt not to keep your current tickets for the new date, you can contact the box office for a full refund by calling 620-663-1981 or emailing <a href="mailto:thefox@hutchinsonfox.com">thefox@hutchinsonfox.com</a>. Please include the full name as it appears on your ticket order and, if possible, the order number.Recent credit card orders will be refunded back to the card. Other credit card orders and all orders paid via cash or check will be refunded via company check from the Fox Theatre and mailed to the billing address on file.Up-to-date status for all other Fox events can be found on the website: <a href="http://www.hutchinsonfox.com">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a>.

Fox Theatre announces new date for Turtle Island Quartet

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — BNSF Railway released its first quarter earnings on Monday. 

The nation’s second-largest railroad reported total revenue of $5.4 billion, a drop of 6% from the same quarter last year. Net income fell 5% to $1.19 billion.

Carloading revenue continued to fall led by a continued decline in coal shipments, which fell 12% to $766 million. Overall carloading revenue fell 6%. Total cars moved by the railroad fell 5% to 2,336,000 loads.

BNSF operates about 12 trains per day through Reno County including Amtrak’s SW Chief. 

The railroad is the second-most valuable company on the tax rolls in the county with a total valuation of $11.2 million and total property taxes paid in 2019 of $1.7 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588708495024.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — BNSF Railway released its first quarter earnings on Monday. The nation’s second-largest railroad reported total revenue of $5.4 billion, a drop of 6% from the same quarter last year. Net income fell 5% to $1.19 billion.Carloading revenue continued to fall led by a continued decline in coal shipments, which fell 12% to $766 million. Overall carloading revenue fell 6%. Total cars moved by the railroad fell 5% to 2,336,000 loads.BNSF operates about 12 trains per day through Reno County including Amtrak’s SW Chief. The railroad is the second-most valuable company on the tax rolls in the county with a total valuation of $11.2 million and total property taxes paid in 2019 of $1.7 million.

BNSF earnings sluggish in 1Q report

MCPHERSON,
Kan. — 
The McPherson Police Department is participating in a food drive for their community this week.

According to a Facebook post from the department, community members can stop by Dillons on Wednesday between noon and 8 p.m., Walmart on Thursday between noon and 8 p.m. and both Dillons and Walmart Friday morning between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. to donate food. 

Normally the letter carriers food drive would take place in May and there always is a mail truck in the All Schools Day parade to remind the community of the occasion, but all in person All Schools Day events and the letter carriers food drive have been cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON,
Kan. — 
The McPherson Police Department is participating in a food drive for their community this week.According to a Facebook post from the department, community members can stop by Dillons on Wednesday between noon and 8 p.m., Walmart on Thursday between noon and 8 p.m. and both Dillons and Walmart Friday morning between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. to donate food. Normally the letter carriers food drive would take place in May and there always is a mail truck in the All Schools Day parade to remind the community of the occasion, but all in person All Schools Day events and the letter carriers food drive have been cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns.

Police Department in McPherson helping with food drive

NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its ninth positive case of coronavirus, or COVID-19, in Harvey County.

The confirmed case is a woman in her 30s. The individual was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county.

Testing was completed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Kansas Health and Environmental Labs. The individual is in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the individual, as well as follow up on all contacts.

As of this morning, the KDHE had confirmed 5,458 cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. That number does not include this new Harvey County case. Of Harvey County’s nine cases, six individuals have recovered. Harvey County reported its first confirmed case March 26.

The KDHE has also classified two Harvey County cases as probable for COVID-19, including one death. The cases are probable because they met clinical criteria for symptoms with a presumptive-positive lab test for blood work, but were negative in testing for an active COVID-19 virus. The KDHE has not included probable cases in its confirmed statistics at this time.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly has issued the State’s guidance for reopening, “Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas.” The state is currently in the first phase of the guidance. The plan in its entirety can be found at covid.ks.gov.

The KDHE has a phone hotline available to answer questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 at 1-866-534-3463.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584475841056.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its ninth positive case of coronavirus, or COVID-19, in Harvey County.The confirmed case is a woman in her 30s. The individual was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county.Testing was completed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Kansas Health and Environmental Labs. The individual is in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the individual, as well as follow up on all contacts.As of this morning, the KDHE had confirmed 5,458 cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. That number does not include this new Harvey County case. Of Harvey County’s nine cases, six individuals have recovered. Harvey County reported its first confirmed case March 26.The KDHE has also classified two Harvey County cases as probable for COVID-19, including one death. The cases are probable because they met clinical criteria for symptoms with a presumptive-positive lab test for blood work, but were negative in testing for an active COVID-19 virus. The KDHE has not included probable cases in its confirmed statistics at this time.Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly has issued the State’s guidance for reopening, “Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas.” The state is currently in the first phase of the guidance. The plan in its entirety can be found at covid.ks.gov.The KDHE has a phone hotline available to answer questions or concerns regarding COVID-19 at 1-866-534-3463.

Harvey County case count at nine, with six recoveries

MCPHERSON,
Kan. — 
The current McPherson County COVID-19 case count is at 25 as of Tuesday evening, with 17 recoveries and two in the hospital.

The two newly identified cases on Tuesday were females in their 20s both recovering at home with unknown sources of exposure.

If you develop symptoms that may indicate COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a provider, call your local health department. In McPherson County, their number is (620) 241-1753. You can also email machd@mcphersoncountyks.us.

Please continue to maintain social distancing, avoid gatherings in groups greater than 10, wear a cloth face covering in public, cover your cough and wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588638897564.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON,
Kan. — 
The current McPherson County COVID-19 case count is at 25 as of Tuesday evening, with 17 recoveries and two in the hospital.The two newly identified cases on Tuesday were females in their 20s both recovering at home with unknown sources of exposure.If you develop symptoms that may indicate COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a provider, call your local health department. In McPherson County, their number is (620) 241-1753. You can also email machd@mcphersoncountyks.us.Please continue to maintain social distancing, avoid gatherings in groups greater than 10, wear a cloth face covering in public, cover your cough and wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Current McPherson County COVID-19 case count at 25, 17 recovered, 2 in hospital

BUHLER, Kan. — School has ended in Buhler USD 313 for seniors while other grades have another week of classes.

Seniors will be able to return any books and technology that was needed to finish out the year Wednesday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the high school. The return day for materials at the elementary schools and Prairie Hills Middle School is Tuesday, May 12, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and then again from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the schools.

The rest of the high school students can return items on May 13 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.; May 14 from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. and May 15 from 8 a.m. until noon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — School has ended in Buhler USD 313 for seniors while other grades have another week of classes.Seniors will be able to return any books and technology that was needed to finish out the year Wednesday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the high school. The return day for materials at the elementary schools and Prairie Hills Middle School is Tuesday, May 12, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. and then again from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the schools.The rest of the high school students can return items on May 13 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.; May 14 from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. and May 15 from 8 a.m. until noon.

USD 313 reminds students about technology and book return

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<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. — Much of the discussion during the COVID-19 task force meeting on Monday centered more around recreation than business openings. That discussion circled back around to Tuesday’s County Commission meeting. Health Department Director Nick Baldetti explained the issue of using outdoor recreational facilities and the regulations behind them.

“There’s been some discussion around the use of public facilities and, in particular, recreational activity associated with organized versus non-organized sporting activities,” Baldetti noted. “It was released in a frequently asked document by the governor’s office in regard to explicitly stating that organized sporting activities, much like practice, is restricted under phase one of the governor’s plan.”

Baldetti said the state’s ruling prevents any type of organized practices such as summer baseball and softball, but still lets gatherings of 10 or fewer use facilities.

“Non-organized recreational activity may be allowed at public and private outdoor parks if practicing appropriate social distancing,” Baldetti said. “Groups of more than 10 who cannot accommodate six feet of distancing are not allowed to congregate.”

The commission agreed that there are sports like tennis and such that should be able to have organized activities due to the natural distance between competitors and lack of physical contact in them. District Attorney Keith Schroeder stated that what the governor restricted in phase one and what came out in an interpretation of that ruling were not the same:

“Certain sports are different than other sport,” Schroeder said. “If you’re playing basketball, you’re in very close contact with each other the entire time. The group goes from one end of the court to the other end in close contact. Baseball and tennis, you’re always generally going to be six feet apart.”

Schroeder added that he just couldn’t see the need for limitations on practice. All such practices are prohibited under phase one restrictions by the state until at least May 18.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584572819718.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Much of the discussion during the COVID-19 task force meeting on Monday centered more around recreation than business openings. That discussion circled back around to Tuesday’s County Commission meeting. Health Department Director Nick Baldetti explained the issue of using outdoor recreational facilities and the regulations behind them.“There’s been some discussion around the use of public facilities and, in particular, recreational activity associated with organized versus non-organized sporting activities,” Baldetti noted. “It was released in a frequently asked document by the governor’s office in regard to explicitly stating that organized sporting activities, much like practice, is restricted under phase one of the governor’s plan.”Baldetti said the state’s ruling prevents any type of organized practices such as summer baseball and softball, but still lets gatherings of 10 or fewer use facilities.“Non-organized recreational activity may be allowed at public and private outdoor parks if practicing appropriate social distancing,” Baldetti said. “Groups of more than 10 who cannot accommodate six feet of distancing are not allowed to congregate.”The commission agreed that there are sports like tennis and such that should be able to have organized activities due to the natural distance between competitors and lack of physical contact in them. District Attorney Keith Schroeder stated that what the governor restricted in phase one and what came out in an interpretation of that ruling were not the same:“Certain sports are different than other sport,” Schroeder said. “If you’re playing basketball, you’re in very close contact with each other the entire time. The group goes from one end of the court to the other end in close contact. Baseball and tennis, you’re always generally going to be six feet apart.”Schroeder added that he just couldn’t see the need for limitations on practice. All such practices are prohibited under phase one restrictions by the state until at least May 18.

Task force discusses use of outdoor athletic facilities

HUTCHINSON Kan. — Reno County Commissioners gave approval to a contract for repair work along a portion of 82nd Avenue that was damaged by last year’s flooding.

The board approved the contract with Theis Dozer Service Inc. to make the repairs at a cost of $127,365. Public Works Director Don Brittain said they decided to hire out a contractor for the work because of the large amount of rock and fill dirt that would be needed to make the repairs. 

Brittain said that having county crews do that work would take them away from road and bridge projects on the schedule.

The work along 82nd Avenue will take place just east and west of Wilson Road. The prolonged flooding last summer caused a large area along the road to wash away. 

Brittain said that despite the flooding along 82nd and Wilson — which happens nearly every year — this is the first time such damage has occurred in that area. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576610766240.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON Kan. — Reno County Commissioners gave approval to a contract for repair work along a portion of 82nd Avenue that was damaged by last year’s flooding.The board approved the contract with Theis Dozer Service Inc. to make the repairs at a cost of $127,365. Public Works Director Don Brittain said they decided to hire out a contractor for the work because of the large amount of rock and fill dirt that would be needed to make the repairs. Brittain said that having county crews do that work would take them away from road and bridge projects on the schedule.The work along 82nd Avenue will take place just east and west of Wilson Road. The prolonged flooding last summer caused a large area along the road to wash away. Brittain said that despite the flooding along 82nd and Wilson — which happens nearly every year — this is the first time such damage has occurred in that area.

Commission approves flood repair work


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A Hutchinson City Council member took the occasion of the approval of a bid for a zoo project to take aim at the overall idea of a zoo in the Salt City.

"I would like to see the whole thing without any animals," said Sara Bagwell. "I'm just going to throw it out there. I'm not really into the zoo. I think it's a huge expenditure on taxpayer dollars. I would like to see something that doesn't cost taxpayers so much money."

The zoo does not currently charge admission.

"I'd rather either see a zoo that has vouchers for low-income people and a $5 entry that has more to it," Bagwell said. "Right now, it's just, it is a real big money pit and you're just having an extended park. I understand that, but some of the expenses on the zoo is huge."

It's clear that the city will need to make some cuts in future years with the loss in revenue from COVID-19.

"I am just saying, like with staff, what is it, $756,000 a year?" Bagwell said. "Eight personnel. Some people would go, almost a million dollars that everybody's paying for the zoo. If you kind of put that into perspective, someone saying, okay, as a city, we're paying almost a million dollars a year for not too much."

Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho and council members Nancy Soldner and John Daveline jumped to the defense of the zoo, so it's clear that Bagwell's opinion is in the minority, but it may portend some difficult discussions to come as the city grapples with its 2021 budget in the coming months.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A Hutchinson City Council member took the occasion of the approval of a bid for a zoo project to take aim at the overall idea of a zoo in the Salt City."I would like to see the whole thing without any animals," said Sara Bagwell. "I'm just going to throw it out there. I'm not really into the zoo. I think it's a huge expenditure on taxpayer dollars. I would like to see something that doesn't cost taxpayers so much money."The zoo does not currently charge admission."I'd rather either see a zoo that has vouchers for low-income people and a $5 entry that has more to it," Bagwell said. "Right now, it's just, it is a real big money pit and you're just having an extended park. I understand that, but some of the expenses on the zoo is huge."It's clear that the city will need to make some cuts in future years with the loss in revenue from COVID-19."I am just saying, like with staff, what is it, $756,000 a year?" Bagwell said. "Eight personnel. Some people would go, almost a million dollars that everybody's paying for the zoo. If you kind of put that into perspective, someone saying, okay, as a city, we're paying almost a million dollars a year for not too much."Mayor Jade Piros de Carvalho and council members Nancy Soldner and John Daveline jumped to the defense of the zoo, so it's clear that Bagwell's opinion is in the minority, but it may portend some difficult discussions to come as the city grapples with its 2021 budget in the coming months.

Bagwell expresses dissatisfaction with zoo at Tuesday city council meeting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Police made two arrests on suspicion of drug and weapons charges on Monday. 

Hutchinson Police report they stopped a car driven by 40-year old Tian Patterson in the 100 block of W 9th for failing to use a turn signal around 2:25 p.m. A passenger in the vehicle, 45-year-old Bobby Hemphill was taken into custody on suspicion of possession of meth and components to manufacture meth along with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Hemphill was also arrested for being in possession of a firearm as a convicted felon and criminal use of a weapon. Patterson was arrested for driving while suspended and criminal possession of a firearm.

Hemphill is being held on a bond of $32,500. Patterson is free on bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586783440579.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Police made two arrests on suspicion of drug and weapons charges on Monday. Hutchinson Police report they stopped a car driven by 40-year old Tian Patterson in the 100 block of W 9th for failing to use a turn signal around 2:25 p.m. A passenger in the vehicle, 45-year-old Bobby Hemphill was taken into custody on suspicion of possession of meth and components to manufacture meth along with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.Hemphill was also arrested for being in possession of a firearm as a convicted felon and criminal use of a weapon. Patterson was arrested for driving while suspended and criminal possession of a firearm.Hemphill is being held on a bond of $32,500. Patterson is free on bond.

Two arrested on potential drug and weapons charges


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Right now, Kansas gas prices are some of the best in the country.

"Several states saw some gas price increases," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Less than a dozen states, but they were large enough jumps to push the national average up two cents a gallon to $1.78 and as states begin to reopen businesses, we'll see gasoline demand increase and pump prices will likely follow suit."

Kansas prices actually went down two cents in the last week to $1.47 a gallon.

"Kansas is 4th cheapest in America right now," Steward said. "Oklahoma, Arkansas and Missouri are the top three. If you are driving around this region, we have the benefits of the lowest prices in the country."

Reno County is right around the state average.

"Reno County and Hutchinson are right at around $1.48, depending on the station that you visit," Steward said.

Steward expects a slight uptick in prices in the next few weeks if the state is allowed to gradually reopen.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Right now, Kansas gas prices are some of the best in the country."Several states saw some gas price increases," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Less than a dozen states, but they were large enough jumps to push the national average up two cents a gallon to $1.78 and as states begin to reopen businesses, we'll see gasoline demand increase and pump prices will likely follow suit."Kansas prices actually went down two cents in the last week to $1.47 a gallon."Kansas is 4th cheapest in America right now," Steward said. "Oklahoma, Arkansas and Missouri are the top three. If you are driving around this region, we have the benefits of the lowest prices in the country."Reno County is right around the state average."Reno County and Hutchinson are right at around $1.48, depending on the station that you visit," Steward said.Steward expects a slight uptick in prices in the next few weeks if the state is allowed to gradually reopen.

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