COVID-19 cuts traffic density, allowing risk takers to push safety limits

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/23/kansas-highway-fatality-rate-surges-despite-fewer-miles-traveled-in-2020/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The rate of 
traffic fatalities on Kansas highways surged in the first nine months of
 2020 despite dramatic reduction in miles traveled because of temporary 
stay-at-home mandates and ongoing health concerns of the COVID-19 
pandemic, officials said Thursday.

The number of vehicle 
miles traveled on Kansas highways from January through September 
plummeted 10.2% compared to the same period in 2019. But the fatality 
rate per 100 million miles traveled in Kansas increased during the 
nine-month period, escalating to 1.52 in 2020 from 1.29 in 2019.

“Vehicle miles traveled is
 going down, yet fatalities are going up,” said Chris Herrick, director 
of planning and development at the Kansas Department of Transportation. 
“Everybody is trying to get their hands and arms wrapped around why is 
vehicle miles traveled going down and fatality rates increasing.”

He said the primary 
culprit appeared to be motorists taking advantage of highways less 
densely packed with cars and trucks to drive at excessive speeds. He 
said some pushed the envelope by accelerating beyond 100 mph on Kansas 
roadways posted with limits that range from 55 mph on two-lane highways 
to 75 mph on stretches of turnpike and freeway.

“Speed kills. The faster 
you go, the more force there is and when you do get in a wreck, the 
worse the wreck is,” Herrick said. “The risky-behavior people are out 
and about, and they are the ones more likely to speed. You have less 
traffic on the roads, so you have more ability to speed.”

The total number of Kansas
 highway traffic fatalities — not just the rate — increased during the 
March to September months in which COVID-19 has imposed the greatest 
impact on residents of the state. KDOT said there were 258 deaths on 
highways in Kansas during those seven months of 2020, an increase from 
254 during that same period in 2019.

That 1.6% increase in 
Kansas traffic deaths occurred despite significant reduction in vehicle 
miles covered during those seven months. Comparing 2020 to 2019, KDOT 
officials said, vehicle miles driven in Kansas was down by 13.5% in 
March, 36.7% in April, 19.5% in May, 9.7% in June, 7.3% in July, 4.7% in
 August and 4.8% in September.

The National Safety 
Council’s estimate based on the first six months of 2020 data from all 
50 states indicated there was a 20% jump in the U.S. death rate, which 
is a key indicator of how safely drivers used the roadways. The shift 
between January and June 2020, compared to the same six-month period in 
2019, represented the highest surge for a six-month period since 1999, 
NSC said.

NSC, a nonproft 
organization dedicated to reducing the number of preventable deaths and 
injuries, said the national increase in fatalities came despite a 17% 
drop in the number of miles driven between January and June. The total 
number of U.S. deaths was up 1% from the six-month total in 2019.

“Because of COVID-19 and 
states’ shelter-in-place orders earlier this year, the country should 
have reaped a safety benefit from less traffic,” said Lorraine Martin, 
NSC’s president and chief executive officer. “Instead, our soaring rate 
of deaths speaks to our need to improve safety on our roads. Clearly, we
 must work harder as a society to reverse this trend, especially since 
the pandemic is not nearly over.”

In June, when many states 
ended three straight months of quarantine, the number of miles driven 
remained 13% lower than the previous year, but both the fatality rates 
and the overall number of deaths skyrocketed in the United States.

The number of deaths was up 17% in June, NSC said, while the rate of death per 100 million miles driven jumped 34.4%.

Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603569396642.png" alt="The Kansas Department of Transportation reports the rate of traffic fatalities in Kanssa increased from January throuugh September 2020 compared to the first nine months of 2019, despite a 10.2% reduction in highway miles traveled in the state due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Department of Transportation reports the rate of traffic fatalities in Kanssa increased from January throuugh September 2020 compared to the first nine months of 2019, despite a 10.2% reduction in highway miles traveled in the state due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>COVID-19 cuts traffic density, allowing risk takers to push safety limits</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/23/kansas-highway-fatality-rate-surges-despite-fewer-miles-traveled-in-2020/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The rate of 
traffic fatalities on Kansas highways surged in the first nine months of
 2020 despite dramatic reduction in miles traveled because of temporary 
stay-at-home mandates and ongoing health concerns of the COVID-19 
pandemic, officials said Thursday.The number of vehicle 
miles traveled on Kansas highways from January through September 
plummeted 10.2% compared to the same period in 2019. But the fatality 
rate per 100 million miles traveled in Kansas increased during the 
nine-month period, escalating to 1.52 in 2020 from 1.29 in 2019.“Vehicle miles traveled is
 going down, yet fatalities are going up,” said Chris Herrick, director 
of planning and development at the Kansas Department of Transportation. 
“Everybody is trying to get their hands and arms wrapped around why is 
vehicle miles traveled going down and fatality rates increasing.”He said the primary 
culprit appeared to be motorists taking advantage of highways less 
densely packed with cars and trucks to drive at excessive speeds. He 
said some pushed the envelope by accelerating beyond 100 mph on Kansas 
roadways posted with limits that range from 55 mph on two-lane highways 
to 75 mph on stretches of turnpike and freeway.“Speed kills. The faster 
you go, the more force there is and when you do get in a wreck, the 
worse the wreck is,” Herrick said. “The risky-behavior people are out 
and about, and they are the ones more likely to speed. You have less 
traffic on the roads, so you have more ability to speed.”The total number of Kansas
 highway traffic fatalities — not just the rate — increased during the 
March to September months in which COVID-19 has imposed the greatest 
impact on residents of the state. KDOT said there were 258 deaths on 
highways in Kansas during those seven months of 2020, an increase from 
254 during that same period in 2019.That 1.6% increase in 
Kansas traffic deaths occurred despite significant reduction in vehicle 
miles covered during those seven months. Comparing 2020 to 2019, KDOT 
officials said, vehicle miles driven in Kansas was down by 13.5% in 
March, 36.7% in April, 19.5% in May, 9.7% in June, 7.3% in July, 4.7% in
 August and 4.8% in September.The National Safety 
Council’s estimate based on the first six months of 2020 data from all 
50 states indicated there was a 20% jump in the U.S. death rate, which 
is a key indicator of how safely drivers used the roadways. The shift 
between January and June 2020, compared to the same six-month period in 
2019, represented the highest surge for a six-month period since 1999, 
NSC said.NSC, a nonproft 
organization dedicated to reducing the number of preventable deaths and 
injuries, said the national increase in fatalities came despite a 17% 
drop in the number of miles driven between January and June. The total 
number of U.S. deaths was up 1% from the six-month total in 2019.“Because of COVID-19 and 
states’ shelter-in-place orders earlier this year, the country should 
have reaped a safety benefit from less traffic,” said Lorraine Martin, 
NSC’s president and chief executive officer. “Instead, our soaring rate 
of deaths speaks to our need to improve safety on our roads. Clearly, we
 must work harder as a society to reverse this trend, especially since 
the pandemic is not nearly over.”In June, when many states 
ended three straight months of quarantine, the number of miles driven 
remained 13% lower than the previous year, but both the fatality rates 
and the overall number of deaths skyrocketed in the United States.The number of deaths was up 17% in June, NSC said, while the rate of death per 100 million miles driven jumped 34.4%.Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.

Kan. highway fatality rate surges despite fewer miles traveled in 2020


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt doesn't like the idea of enlarging the Supreme Court, in fact he's joined support of the so-called “Keep Nine” amendment, a bipartisan proposal introduced last month in the U.S. House of Representatives by Collin Peterson, D-Minn., and Denver Riggleman, R-Va.

"It's well settled, it's well accepted by folks of all different philosophies, different litigants and by the court itself," Schmidt said. "Justice Ginsburg said, nine seems to be a good number. The problem is, that number is not locked in the Constitution."

The proposed amendment would add 13 words to the U.S. Constitution. It would say, The Supreme Court of the United States shall be composed of nine Justices.

"The court ought to be outside of that political debate," Schmidt said. "Nine is a good number. There's a process for selecting those nine. Everybody ought to play by the same rules and there shouldn't be an option for Republicans or Democrats who come up on the short end of that process to go out and change the rules after the fact by adding more justices."

A federal constitutional amendment must receive approval from two-thirds of the members of the U.S. House and Senate to be formally proposed, then the approval of three-fourths of the state legislatures to be ratified.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt doesn't like the idea of enlarging the Supreme Court, in fact he's joined support of the so-called “Keep Nine” amendment, a bipartisan proposal introduced last month in the U.S. House of Representatives by Collin Peterson, D-Minn., and Denver Riggleman, R-Va."It's well settled, it's well accepted by folks of all different philosophies, different litigants and by the court itself," Schmidt said. "Justice Ginsburg said, nine seems to be a good number. The problem is, that number is not locked in the Constitution."The proposed amendment would add 13 words to the U.S. Constitution. It would say, The Supreme Court of the United States shall be composed of nine Justices."The court ought to be outside of that political debate," Schmidt said. "Nine is a good number. There's a process for selecting those nine. Everybody ought to play by the same rules and there shouldn't be an option for Republicans or Democrats who come up on the short end of that process to go out and change the rules after the fact by adding more justices."A federal constitutional amendment must receive approval from two-thirds of the members of the U.S. House and Senate to be formally proposed, then the approval of three-fourths of the state legislatures to be ratified.

Schmidt: Court should 'Keep Nine'

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The pandemic has been hard on everyone, especially those who are shut in.

To bring some cheer to those who may not be able to get out, Hospice and HomeCare and Health-E-Quip invite the public to participate in a CARE-A-Van to visit nine Hutchinson and South Hutchinson long-term care facilities Friday, Oct. 30. The Hutchinson Police and Fire Departments, South Hutchinson Police and Fire Departments, Health-E-Quip and several other hospice organizations in the community will be a presence in the CARE-A-Van as well.

The caravan will depart the Trade Center parking lot at 1600 N. Lorraine St. at 9:30 a.m. Before departure, a map of the stops will be provided to all participants. Additional stops at other long-term care organizations may be included along with the nine already confirmed. Participants are encouraged to decorate their cars with signs and balloons, and wear costumes if they desire.

Andrea Siefkes, community liaison for Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, said the group will drive through each of the facilities and greet the residents and staff through the windows. Also, Siefkes said the group will leave behind “CARE” packages for each of the facilities to enjoy. There are no plans to go inside the facilities to meet with residents or staff.

Those interested in participating in the CARE-A-Van should contact Siefkes at 620-665-2473.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603481593174.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The pandemic has been hard on everyone, especially those who are shut in.To bring some cheer to those who may not be able to get out, Hospice and HomeCare and Health-E-Quip invite the public to participate in a CARE-A-Van to visit nine Hutchinson and South Hutchinson long-term care facilities Friday, Oct. 30. The Hutchinson Police and Fire Departments, South Hutchinson Police and Fire Departments, Health-E-Quip and several other hospice organizations in the community will be a presence in the CARE-A-Van as well.The caravan will depart the Trade Center parking lot at 1600 N. Lorraine St. at 9:30 a.m. Before departure, a map of the stops will be provided to all participants. Additional stops at other long-term care organizations may be included along with the nine already confirmed. Participants are encouraged to decorate their cars with signs and balloons, and wear costumes if they desire.Andrea Siefkes, community liaison for Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, said the group will drive through each of the facilities and greet the residents and staff through the windows. Also, Siefkes said the group will leave behind “CARE” packages for each of the facilities to enjoy. There are no plans to go inside the facilities to meet with residents or staff.Those interested in participating in the CARE-A-Van should contact Siefkes at 620-665-2473.

CARE-A-Van event to visit long-term care facilities from outside

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will seek approval to dole out more CDBG pandemic funds during Tuesday’s meeting.&nbsp;

Seven different county businesses will share in more than $108,000. The county has had the money for several months, but had few businesses try to take advantage of the program.&nbsp;

The funds help pay for expenses driven by COVID, such as protective equipment and other items. M&amp;N Watertite Metal Roofing was the highest recipient of the funds at $45,000. Ray Ray’s Cycle Inc. will get $25,000.

Also Tuesday, the board will get an update on the pandemic and seek approval of a contract with Pishny Restoration Services for repairs and restoration of the courthouse for $3,089,740. The project includes planned restoration and repairs to the courthouse brought on by several earthquakes that hit the area.

The courthouse interior plaster repair and earthquake stabilization projects will be covered by insurance, less deductible of $25,000. The weatherization and window restoration projects can be paid by a bond or a combination of bond and county financing from $1,000,000 budgeted in the County General Fund in 2020 for courthouse improvements.

Tuesday's meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575400618003.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Commissioners will seek approval to dole out more CDBG pandemic funds during Tuesday’s meeting.&nbsp;Seven different county businesses will share in more than $108,000. The county has had the money for several months, but had few businesses try to take advantage of the program.&nbsp;The funds help pay for expenses driven by COVID, such as protective equipment and other items. M&amp;N Watertite Metal Roofing was the highest recipient of the funds at $45,000. Ray Ray’s Cycle Inc. will get $25,000.Others include:M &amp; J Enterprises $7,123MCRS Construction $12,335Rhythmic Restoration $3,552The Pizza Connection $4,147&nbsp;and the Trails West Motel $11,773Also Tuesday, the board will get an update on the pandemic and seek approval of a contract with Pishny Restoration Services for repairs and restoration of the courthouse for $3,089,740. The project includes planned restoration and repairs to the courthouse brought on by several earthquakes that hit the area.The courthouse interior plaster repair and earthquake stabilization projects will be covered by insurance, less deductible of $25,000. The weatherization and window restoration projects can be paid by a bond or a combination of bond and county financing from $1,000,000 budgeted in the County General Fund in 2020 for courthouse improvements.Tuesday's meeting of the Reno County Commission begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

Commission to award COVID funds and approve courthouse repairs

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Thursday's news that KMS Inc. was expanding to Hutchinson and taking over the old Eaton plant was certainly good news.

The company is currently working to get the building ready for occupancy and still hope to be in the facility in the next two to three months.

KMS Inc. was founded in 1976 and is based out of Wichita. The company buys and sells off liquidations and is known to be the largest business of its kind in the country. KMS Inc. also has proven brands such as Cool Living and Warm Living, which include heaters and air conditioners. The company also offers general merchandise from clothing, hardware, and kitchen appliances, according to the company website.&nbsp;

The purchase of the Eaton building certainly gives the company more space, which Vice President of Sales Scott Miller says was needed.

“We’re in the storing business so we needed more space and this worked out for us,” Miller said. “We also do a lot of production work for retailers . . . we needed a place to spread things out and work.”

Interest in the building for KMS began in August when the facility was put up for auction. When the winning bidders of the auction backed out suddenly, efforts began to buy the facility. Company President Tom George was looking for something that could be available for use quickly.

“When he called in August to inquire about the building and started asking questions, we went over to their Wichita office the very next morning,” Chamber President Debra Teufel said. 

While KMS will benefit from some tax relief on all renovations and expansion that comes before the building opens again, it was not something the company was heavily pursuing.&nbsp;

"The biggest factor for Tom was speed-to-market," Teufel said. "He wants to get this building on line and making money for the company as soon as he can, so I don't think he wanted to get bogged down in a lot of incentive programs." 

The company did ask for a revaluation of the property, which the county has done and should give the company a lower property tax bill.

According to Teufel, the building needed a lot of work and had several other issues that needed to be addressed including the electrical service coming into the facility. She says the company is working to use local contractors for all of the things that need repair. How soon they move in depends on how much work can be done to get the facility ready.

“We are actively working on it now, roofers are out there, boilers, the whole works,” Miller said. “How fast everybody goes, we could be in there before the end of the year.”

Miller says they expect to hire between 20 and 50 workers depending on how much work is brought to Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588801410791.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Thursday's news that KMS Inc. was expanding to Hutchinson and taking over the old Eaton plant was certainly good news.The company is currently working to get the building ready for occupancy and still hope to be in the facility in the next two to three months.KMS Inc. was founded in 1976 and is based out of Wichita. The company buys and sells off liquidations and is known to be the largest business of its kind in the country. KMS Inc. also has proven brands such as Cool Living and Warm Living, which include heaters and air conditioners. The company also offers general merchandise from clothing, hardware, and kitchen appliances, according to the company website.&nbsp;The purchase of the Eaton building certainly gives the company more space, which Vice President of Sales Scott Miller says was needed.“We’re in the storing business so we needed more space and this worked out for us,” Miller said. “We also do a lot of production work for retailers . . . we needed a place to spread things out and work.”Interest in the building for KMS began in August when the facility was put up for auction. When the winning bidders of the auction backed out suddenly, efforts began to buy the facility. Company President Tom George was looking for something that could be available for use quickly.“When he called in August to inquire about the building and started asking questions, we went over to their Wichita office the very next morning,” Chamber President Debra Teufel said. While KMS will benefit from some tax relief on all renovations and expansion that comes before the building opens again, it was not something the company was heavily pursuing.&nbsp;"The biggest factor for Tom was speed-to-market," Teufel said. "He wants to get this building on line and making money for the company as soon as he can, so I don't think he wanted to get bogged down in a lot of incentive programs." The company did ask for a revaluation of the property, which the county has done and should give the company a lower property tax bill.According to Teufel, the building needed a lot of work and had several other issues that needed to be addressed including the electrical service coming into the facility. She says the company is working to use local contractors for all of the things that need repair. How soon they move in depends on how much work can be done to get the facility ready.“We are actively working on it now, roofers are out there, boilers, the whole works,” Miller said. “How fast everybody goes, we could be in there before the end of the year.”Miller says they expect to hire between 20 and 50 workers depending on how much work is brought to Hutchinson.

KMS expansion into Hutchinson gives company some breathing room


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Emporia State University political scientist Michael Smith saw Thursday night's debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden as closing the deal with the converted more so than getting true undecideds to decide.

"There are very few voters who are 50-50 undecided, right in the middle of the road," Smith said. "There might be one or two, but they're very, very rare. Most undecideds, especially at this point are actually leaning toward a candidate and waiting for that candidate to close the deal."

Smith saw Trump as being somewhat effective at closing the deal for his base Thursday.

"I don't think he persuaded any Biden supporters or any Biden leaners," Smith said. "Yes, Trump appeared a bit more presidential last night, especially in the first half of the debate. Folks that may have been a little bit concerned about his behavior, for example, in the first debate, he may have closed the deal with them."

Smith was less clear on whether Biden was a closer with his leaners Thursday.

"I'm not sure what their issue is, that he hasn't closed the deal," Smith said. "I do think that Biden had a pretty good presence. In particular, although they are both in their seventies, Biden's been hit harder with allegations about his age and I thought Biden has had good presence in the debates and on the campaign trail. I noticed that Trump didn't try to even bring that up last night."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591302118267.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Emporia State University political scientist Michael Smith saw Thursday night's debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden as closing the deal with the converted more so than getting true undecideds to decide."There are very few voters who are 50-50 undecided, right in the middle of the road," Smith said. "There might be one or two, but they're very, very rare. Most undecideds, especially at this point are actually leaning toward a candidate and waiting for that candidate to close the deal."Smith saw Trump as being somewhat effective at closing the deal for his base Thursday."I don't think he persuaded any Biden supporters or any Biden leaners," Smith said. "Yes, Trump appeared a bit more presidential last night, especially in the first half of the debate. Folks that may have been a little bit concerned about his behavior, for example, in the first debate, he may have closed the deal with them."Smith was less clear on whether Biden was a closer with his leaners Thursday."I'm not sure what their issue is, that he hasn't closed the deal," Smith said. "I do think that Biden had a pretty good presence. In particular, although they are both in their seventies, Biden's been hit harder with allegations about his age and I thought Biden has had good presence in the debates and on the campaign trail. I noticed that Trump didn't try to even bring that up last night."The election is November 3.

Smith: Thursday's debate was about closing the deal with base, not undecideds

CHENEY, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff's Department is investigating a break-in at O’Brien's Marina at Cheney Reservoir early Friday morning.

According to the marina, between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m., the store was destructively broken into and robbed.&nbsp;

Below is surveillance footage taken during the robbery.

The sheriff’s department asks you to call (620) 694-2735 if you have any information regarding the footage or anything else.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603489367127.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHENEY, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff's Department is investigating a break-in at O’Brien's Marina at Cheney Reservoir early Friday morning.According to the marina, between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m., the store was destructively broken into and robbed.&nbsp;Below is surveillance footage taken during the robbery.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOBriensMarina%2Fvideos%2F480673609504027%2F&show_text=0&width=318" width="318" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The sheriff’s department asks you to call (620) 694-2735 if you have any information regarding the footage or anything else.

O'Brien's Marina robbed early Friday morning

HUTCHINONSON, Kan. — A major livestock expo is staying in
Hutchinson through at least the next three years.

The Kansas Beef Expo, Visit Hutch and the Kansas State
Fairgrounds have announced a three-year contract extension that keeps the
Winter Beef Expo in Hutchinson through 2022.&nbsp; Hutchinson and the Kansas
State Fairgrounds have been home to the Kansas Beef Expo since they moved the
show from Wichita in 1998.

&nbsp;“The Kansas State Fairgrounds, City of Hutchinson and
the surrounding area have been phenomenal to work with for the Kansas Beef
Expo. Kansas has one of the best facilities to host a cattle event in all the
Mid-West. We are excited about continuing our relationship with the Kansas
State Fair and the Hutchinson area. As with the whole country, our industry has
faced much uncertainty throughout this year. We want to put something solid in
place to offer producers and youth from across the country a place to showcase
their livestock and we think Hutchinson, Kansas offers the perfect venue to do
just that”, Quint Huncovsky, Executive Director of the Kansas Beef Expo said.

&nbsp;Each year the show brings
nearly 800 head of cattle to the Fairgrounds and hundreds of attendees to
Hutchinson for the weekend.&nbsp; The three-day show draws exhibitors from over
18 states and in 2019 registered exhibitors came from Canada.&nbsp; Some
represented states include Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Colorado,
North Carolina, California, Iowa, Texas, and Wyoming.&nbsp; The show has
continued to grow over the years and is one for the premiere cattle shows in
the Midwest.

&nbsp;“Our partnership with the Fairgrounds and the Beef
Expo spans over 20 years, and being able to grow the relationship is
fantastic.&nbsp; We always look forward to the second weekend in December when
the Fairgrounds and Hutchinson are filled with visitors, and we thrilled to get
the opportunity welcome everyone back for the next three years,” Holly
Leiker, National Sports &amp; Destination Sales Manager for Visit Hutch said.

&nbsp;Future Kansas Beef Expo dates are December 11-13,
2020, December 10-12, 2021, and December 9-11, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595416862852.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINONSON, Kan. — A major livestock expo is staying in
Hutchinson through at least the next three years.The Kansas Beef Expo, Visit Hutch and the Kansas State
Fairgrounds have announced a three-year contract extension that keeps the
Winter Beef Expo in Hutchinson through 2022.&nbsp; Hutchinson and the Kansas
State Fairgrounds have been home to the Kansas Beef Expo since they moved the
show from Wichita in 1998.&nbsp;“The Kansas State Fairgrounds, City of Hutchinson and
the surrounding area have been phenomenal to work with for the Kansas Beef
Expo. Kansas has one of the best facilities to host a cattle event in all the
Mid-West. We are excited about continuing our relationship with the Kansas
State Fair and the Hutchinson area. As with the whole country, our industry has
faced much uncertainty throughout this year. We want to put something solid in
place to offer producers and youth from across the country a place to showcase
their livestock and we think Hutchinson, Kansas offers the perfect venue to do
just that”, Quint Huncovsky, Executive Director of the Kansas Beef Expo said.&nbsp;Each year the show brings
nearly 800 head of cattle to the Fairgrounds and hundreds of attendees to
Hutchinson for the weekend.&nbsp; The three-day show draws exhibitors from over
18 states and in 2019 registered exhibitors came from Canada.&nbsp; Some
represented states include Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Colorado,
North Carolina, California, Iowa, Texas, and Wyoming.&nbsp; The show has
continued to grow over the years and is one for the premiere cattle shows in
the Midwest.&nbsp;“Our partnership with the Fairgrounds and the Beef
Expo spans over 20 years, and being able to grow the relationship is
fantastic.&nbsp; We always look forward to the second weekend in December when
the Fairgrounds and Hutchinson are filled with visitors, and we thrilled to get
the opportunity welcome everyone back for the next three years,” Holly
Leiker, National Sports &amp; Destination Sales Manager for Visit Hutch said.&nbsp;Future Kansas Beef Expo dates are December 11-13,
2020, December 10-12, 2021, and December 9-11, 2022.

Kansas Beef Expo extends contract through 2022


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Carla Smith with Rise Up Reno reminds the community of tomorrow's Drug Take Back Day.

"We're fortunate enough that we have supplied boxes for Take Back Day year-round," Smith said. "That would be drugs that are in your medicine cabinet, prescriptions that you didn't finish, if somebody had extras and for whatever reason you have extra medication you can take it to the take back boxes, drop it off, no questions asked. That will be disposed of so that it can't do any harm to our environment."

Drug Take Back Day is usually from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but that's not true at one of Rise Up Reno's locations tomorrow.

"Ashcraft Pharmacy in South Hutchinson, on Saturday, they're only open until noon, but anytime that they are open, you're welcome to go in there and drop things off. They ask that you put medications in the drop box and then they have, I believe, another location for over the counter medications and those types of things."

You can take drugs by Walgreens in Hutchinson or the Hutchinson Clinic pharmacy between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, as well.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602682018022.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Carla Smith with Rise Up Reno reminds the community of tomorrow's Drug Take Back Day."We're fortunate enough that we have supplied boxes for Take Back Day year-round," Smith said. "That would be drugs that are in your medicine cabinet, prescriptions that you didn't finish, if somebody had extras and for whatever reason you have extra medication you can take it to the take back boxes, drop it off, no questions asked. That will be disposed of so that it can't do any harm to our environment."Drug Take Back Day is usually from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but that's not true at one of Rise Up Reno's locations tomorrow."Ashcraft Pharmacy in South Hutchinson, on Saturday, they're only open until noon, but anytime that they are open, you're welcome to go in there and drop things off. They ask that you put medications in the drop box and then they have, I believe, another location for over the counter medications and those types of things."You can take drugs by Walgreens in Hutchinson or the Hutchinson Clinic pharmacy between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, as well.

Drug Take Back Day tomorrow

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

Recent obituaries


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Because of these unusual times, Salthawk Community Support will not be able to do their traditional Angel Tree Project at Hutchinson High School or Hutchinson Middle School-8.

"We've decided probably the safest way to do it this year is to provide families with a Christmas box," said Nikkee Byard with SCS. "What we're going to do is we're going to offer families a box that will have a dinner from Dillons, which will be really neat, because it will have ham and stuffing and all the trimmings for Christmas dinner and then we're going to add in some food items and some hygiene items, just to try to help families get through the holidays."

The cost will be approximately $100 per box.

"We'll be thankful for large to small donations, everything helps," Byard said. "If you want to write out a check, you can make it out to Salthawk Community Support. That can go to Trinity United Methodist Church. They also have a website, you can donate <a href="https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=Fi1giPL8kwX_Oe1AO50jRp8xk6A2ZwMj3DV_RCpNHqOhjXsUKRLlmI4vCU4-rZZZ2EvVVAEjqawDomKT1pbouTlBVS8CbKG1ztRm0iSTz7c=&amp;amp;ver=3">there</a>, that's safe. If you look at our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Salthawk-Community-Support-541845426260729">Facebook page</a>, all of the information, the address and that website is all on there."

Trinity United Methodist Church Salthawk Community Support 1602 North Main Street Hutchinson, KS 67501

Salthawk Community Support hopes to help at least 130 families at Hutch High and HMS-8 this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600358125863.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Because of these unusual times, Salthawk Community Support will not be able to do their traditional Angel Tree Project at Hutchinson High School or Hutchinson Middle School-8."We've decided probably the safest way to do it this year is to provide families with a Christmas box," said Nikkee Byard with SCS. "What we're going to do is we're going to offer families a box that will have a dinner from Dillons, which will be really neat, because it will have ham and stuffing and all the trimmings for Christmas dinner and then we're going to add in some food items and some hygiene items, just to try to help families get through the holidays."The cost will be approximately $100 per box."We'll be thankful for large to small donations, everything helps," Byard said. "If you want to write out a check, you can make it out to Salthawk Community Support. That can go to Trinity United Methodist Church. They also have a website, you can donate <a href="https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=Fi1giPL8kwX_Oe1AO50jRp8xk6A2ZwMj3DV_RCpNHqOhjXsUKRLlmI4vCU4-rZZZ2EvVVAEjqawDomKT1pbouTlBVS8CbKG1ztRm0iSTz7c=&amp;amp;ver=3">there</a>, that's safe. If you look at our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Salthawk-Community-Support-541845426260729">Facebook page</a>, all of the information, the address and that website is all on there."You can mail a check to:Trinity United Methodist Church Salthawk Community Support 1602 North Main Street Hutchinson, KS 67501Salthawk Community Support hopes to help at least 130 families at Hutch High and HMS-8 this year.

Salthawk Community Support will do Christmas boxes this year

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With just a little more than a week until the
election the number of advance votes cast in Reno County continues to climb. As
of Friday morning more than 3,050 advance ballots had been cast.

The county sent out 8,776 mail out ballots earlier and
people aren’t waiting to send them back. More than 4,800 of those ballots have
been returned. Any mailed out ballot must be postmarked by election day or
returned to the clerk's office no later than 7 p.m. November 3rd.

Advance voting hours will be extended at the county annex building
on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and then Tuesday October 27 and Thursday
October 29 the office will be open until 7 p.m.

County Elections Clerk Jenna Fager says the typical wait to vote in advance has been about five minutes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597937142759.jpeg" alt="VOTE button.jpg" />
 <figcaption>VOTE button.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With just a little more than a week until the
election the number of advance votes cast in Reno County continues to climb. As
of Friday morning more than 3,050 advance ballots had been cast.The county sent out 8,776 mail out ballots earlier and
people aren’t waiting to send them back. More than 4,800 of those ballots have
been returned. Any mailed out ballot must be postmarked by election day or
returned to the clerk's office no later than 7 p.m. November 3rd.Advance voting hours will be extended at the county annex building
on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and then Tuesday October 27 and Thursday
October 29 the office will be open until 7 p.m.County Elections Clerk Jenna Fager says the typical wait to vote in advance has been about five minutes.

Over half of the mailed out ballots already filled out and returned

STERLING, Kan. — Genzada Pharmaceuticals is continuing to pursue potential solutions to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"This is something that we feel like is right in our wheelhouse, in terms of searching for different molecules, different compounds that may have effect against various diseases, COVID-19 included," said Executive Vice President Jason West. "We thought, this is a good opportunity for us to take a look at some of the existing compounds we have in our pipeline and basically send those off for testing."

Based upon preclinical testing those compounds, inspired by the black calla lily, have shown initial efficacy on COVID-19 and other viruses.

"This is kind of an early indication that there may be something there," West said. "There may be some viable compound that could go forward to be a drug eventually, someday."

At this point, it looks like it would be more of a therapeutic than a vaccine-type treatment, but it's really too early to tell.

"The way we think it works, at least right now, is that it essentially binds to the virus itself," West said. "For lack of a better term, it seems to be changing the shape of the virus, the physical shape, so then it does not have the ability to attach to a healthy cell."

The work thus far has been performed in part by Northern Arizona University's COVID-19 Testing Service Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586029431266.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>STERLING, Kan. — Genzada Pharmaceuticals is continuing to pursue potential solutions to the COVID-19 pandemic."This is something that we feel like is right in our wheelhouse, in terms of searching for different molecules, different compounds that may have effect against various diseases, COVID-19 included," said Executive Vice President Jason West. "We thought, this is a good opportunity for us to take a look at some of the existing compounds we have in our pipeline and basically send those off for testing."Based upon preclinical testing those compounds, inspired by the black calla lily, have shown initial efficacy on COVID-19 and other viruses."This is kind of an early indication that there may be something there," West said. "There may be some viable compound that could go forward to be a drug eventually, someday."At this point, it looks like it would be more of a therapeutic than a vaccine-type treatment, but it's really too early to tell."The way we think it works, at least right now, is that it essentially binds to the virus itself," West said. "For lack of a better term, it seems to be changing the shape of the virus, the physical shape, so then it does not have the ability to attach to a healthy cell."The work thus far has been performed in part by Northern Arizona University's COVID-19 Testing Service Center.

Genzada: Early stage testing for COVID-19 potential treatment promising


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As of Thursday evening, the case count in Reno County has increased back to 561 overall, with 233 active in the community and 15 deaths.

Schools can likely anticipate remaining in the red for the coming week, as the 14-day positive test rate as of 10-18 is at 21.9% and the 14-day new case count is at 356, both well above the threshold for the red criteria.

More testing continues in the county. Not quite 19% of the county has been tested, with 11,907 total tests and 9,981 negatives for an overall positive test rate of 16.18%. The community positive test rate is now at 11.01%.

The next community testing date is Saturday at Pretty Prairie Elementary School from 10 a.m. to noon.

There will be a testing site at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds on the following dates and times:

Tuesdays: October 27, November 3, November 10, November 17 November 24, December 1, December 8, December 15, December 22 and December 29 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Saturdays: November 7, November 21, December 5 and December 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Community testing is vital to continuing to slow the spread of COVID-19. To make a testing appointment for any of the future testing dates call 844-834-3657.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — As of Thursday evening, the case count in Reno County has increased back to 561 overall, with 233 active in the community and 15 deaths.Schools can likely anticipate remaining in the red for the coming week, as the 14-day positive test rate as of 10-18 is at 21.9% and the 14-day new case count is at 356, both well above the threshold for the red criteria.More testing continues in the county. Not quite 19% of the county has been tested, with 11,907 total tests and 9,981 negatives for an overall positive test rate of 16.18%. The community positive test rate is now at 11.01%.The next community testing date is Saturday at Pretty Prairie Elementary School from 10 a.m. to noon.There will be a testing site at the Oz Breezeway on the Kansas State Fairgrounds on the following dates and times:Tuesdays: October 27, November 3, November 10, November 17 November 24, December 1, December 8, December 15, December 22 and December 29 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.Saturdays: November 7, November 21, December 5 and December 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.Community testing is vital to continuing to slow the spread of COVID-19. To make a testing appointment for any of the future testing dates call 844-834-3657.

Schools likely to be in red, positive test rate up in Reno County as of Thursday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Another Hutchinson fire crew is headed out west. 

According to a release from the department, around 10 a.m. Thursday, the Hutchinson Fire Department received a request for mutual aid through the Kansas Forestry Service for assistance at a growing fire in Colorado. Orders were received to arrive in Granby, Colorado by tonight. The Hutchinson Fire Department deployed a team of four wildland certified firefighters and one Type 1 Engine as of 4 p.m. Thursday. 

The growing fire is named the East Troublesome Fire. The East Troublesome Fire is only 5% contained and growing rapidly with high winds and Red Flag conditions. The Fire has grown to over 125,000 acres. Efforts are focused on evacuations. The East Troublesome Fire has burned into the Rocky Mountain National Park and is progressing towards Estes Park.

Hutchinson crews are joining forces with a crew from Wichita and Johnson County Consolidated Fire District 2. Once on scene they will join other resources to form Strike Teams of Structural Engines to do structure protection. 

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Another Hutchinson fire crew is headed out west. According to a release from the department, around 10 a.m. Thursday, the Hutchinson Fire Department received a request for mutual aid through the Kansas Forestry Service for assistance at a growing fire in Colorado. Orders were received to arrive in Granby, Colorado by tonight. The Hutchinson Fire Department deployed a team of four wildland certified firefighters and one Type 1 Engine as of 4 p.m. Thursday. The growing fire is named the East Troublesome Fire. The East Troublesome Fire is only 5% contained and growing rapidly with high winds and Red Flag conditions. The Fire has grown to over 125,000 acres. Efforts are focused on evacuations. The East Troublesome Fire has burned into the Rocky Mountain National Park and is progressing towards Estes Park.Hutchinson crews are joining forces with a crew from Wichita and Johnson County Consolidated Fire District 2. Once on scene they will join other resources to form Strike Teams of Structural Engines to do structure protection.

Hutch firefighters headed out to East Troublesome Fire in Colorado

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —KMS, Inc., a wholesale and distribution company headquartered in Wichita, announced today that it has purchased the former Eaton building, located at 3401 E. 4th&nbsp;Street, that was vacated in 2017.&nbsp; KMS Inc. was founded in 1976 and has over 40 years of experience in the wholesale and distribution of goods.&nbsp;

“This large building presents a great opportunity for KMS to continue to grow and expand in our distribution business in the core of the country,” Tom George, President &amp; CEO of KMS, Inc said.&nbsp; “We look forward to bringing jobs and this building back online.”

KMS, Inc. currently operates four distribution centers throughout the United States, offering a wide array of general merchandise from clothing, hardware, kitchen appliances, electronics, heaters, air conditioners and much more.&nbsp; This location will allow the company to grow in their wholesale distribution offerings.&nbsp;

“We look forward to not only the jobs this will bring to Hutchinson, but demonstrating that Hutchinson’s central location and excellent highway access are a perfect combination for companies wanting to distribute product from the Central US,” Lacie Janzen, Economic Development Project Manager said.

The Greater Hutch Economic Development Partnership worked with a number of community partners on this collaborative effort including the City of Hutchinson, Reno County, local contractors and utility partners who all helped find solutions for this project to come together.&nbsp;

The purchase ends a long effort by the Chamber to sell the building. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with KMS, Inc. and their leadership team,” Debra Teufel, President &amp; CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce said.&nbsp; “This 380,000 square foot facility is a large footprint and has had a major role in Hutchinson’s manufacturing legacy.&nbsp; Our Greater Hutch Economic Development Partnership worked tirelessly over the last three years to find just the right tenant to repurpose this facility.”

KMS, Inc. will be making several updates to the building and plan to be operational in the next 60-90 days.&nbsp; The company will begin hiring in early 2021 and will be posting jobs on the Greater Hutch Job Portal at greaterhutch.com and through KansasWorks at <a href="http://kansasworks.com">kansasworks.com</a>.

Eaton shut down the plant in October of 2017. The company originally announced they would close the plant in 2006 but a large infusion of cash incentives kept the building open.&nbsp;

Still, the plant cut its local workforce from 435 to just 300 at the time. Over the next ten years, the workforce was further reduced to just 100 employees immediately prior to the company closing the facility for good.

The building was put on the auction block in April when no one took interest in the 300,000 square foot building. A group of investors from New Jersey were the winning bidders for the building for $765,500. The deal fell through when the investors backed out on their purchase. Since then, the building has been put back on the market.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588801410791.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —KMS, Inc., a wholesale and distribution company headquartered in Wichita, announced today that it has purchased the former Eaton building, located at 3401 E. 4th&nbsp;Street, that was vacated in 2017.&nbsp; KMS Inc. was founded in 1976 and has over 40 years of experience in the wholesale and distribution of goods.&nbsp;“This large building presents a great opportunity for KMS to continue to grow and expand in our distribution business in the core of the country,” Tom George, President &amp; CEO of KMS, Inc said.&nbsp; “We look forward to bringing jobs and this building back online.”KMS, Inc. currently operates four distribution centers throughout the United States, offering a wide array of general merchandise from clothing, hardware, kitchen appliances, electronics, heaters, air conditioners and much more.&nbsp; This location will allow the company to grow in their wholesale distribution offerings.&nbsp;“We look forward to not only the jobs this will bring to Hutchinson, but demonstrating that Hutchinson’s central location and excellent highway access are a perfect combination for companies wanting to distribute product from the Central US,” Lacie Janzen, Economic Development Project Manager said.The Greater Hutch Economic Development Partnership worked with a number of community partners on this collaborative effort including the City of Hutchinson, Reno County, local contractors and utility partners who all helped find solutions for this project to come together.&nbsp;The purchase ends a long effort by the Chamber to sell the building. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with KMS, Inc. and their leadership team,” Debra Teufel, President &amp; CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce said.&nbsp; “This 380,000 square foot facility is a large footprint and has had a major role in Hutchinson’s manufacturing legacy.&nbsp; Our Greater Hutch Economic Development Partnership worked tirelessly over the last three years to find just the right tenant to repurpose this facility.”KMS, Inc. will be making several updates to the building and plan to be operational in the next 60-90 days.&nbsp; The company will begin hiring in early 2021 and will be posting jobs on the Greater Hutch Job Portal at greaterhutch.com and through KansasWorks at <a href="http://kansasworks.com">kansasworks.com</a>.Eaton shut down the plant in October of 2017. The company originally announced they would close the plant in 2006 but a large infusion of cash incentives kept the building open.&nbsp;Still, the plant cut its local workforce from 435 to just 300 at the time. Over the next ten years, the workforce was further reduced to just 100 employees immediately prior to the company closing the facility for good.The building was put on the auction block in April when no one took interest in the 300,000 square foot building. A group of investors from New Jersey were the winning bidders for the building for $765,500. The deal fell through when the investors backed out on their purchase. Since then, the building has been put back on the market.&nbsp;

Eaton building sold to KMS Inc.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced that, starting Monday, the intersection of 5th Avenue and North Main will be closed to all traffic through the Thanksgiving holiday.

The closing is part of the North Main renovation and includes removing and rebuilding the entire intersection of 5th and Main, and installing new traffic signals.

Business in that area will be accessible from both 4th and Main and 6th and Main. Work is expected to be completed around Nov. 27.

If you have any questions about this or any other city project, contact Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565201103630.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Public Works announced that, starting Monday, the intersection of 5th Avenue and North Main will be closed to all traffic through the Thanksgiving holiday.The closing is part of the North Main renovation and includes removing and rebuilding the entire intersection of 5th and Main, and installing new traffic signals.Business in that area will be accessible from both 4th and Main and 6th and Main. Work is expected to be completed around Nov. 27.If you have any questions about this or any other city project, contact Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

5th and Main intersection to close starting Monday

ZENDA, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded the boil water advisory for the city of Zenda in Kingman County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system due to maintenance. 

Laboratory testing samples collected from Zenda indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. 

The small community had been under the advisory since Monday. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583167428992.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ZENDA, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded the boil water advisory for the city of Zenda in Kingman County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system due to maintenance. Laboratory testing samples collected from Zenda indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. The small community had been under the advisory since Monday.

Zenda boil water advisory lifted

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. Jerry Moran took time to throw both support and caution to current Amtrak President William Flynn during hearings in Washington on Wednesday.

Amtrak has come under the gun over the last year when past leadership threatened to cut service aboard the SW Chief to buses through Kansas and Colorado. Currently, Amtrak has cut service to long-distance trains to three days per week during the pandemic. Moran says he is trying not to be skeptical, but is keeping an eye on where Amtrak is heading.

“Previous CEOs at Amtrak were less committed to long-distance passenger service not that long ago,” Moran said. “So when the three-day (service) arrived, it raised concerns that this is another circumstance in which we’re just being played. That this is the continued effort to eliminate or significantly diminish service.”

Flynn says Amtrak needs a large infusion of cash to keep the long-distance trains running and that there are few options available in finding funds from within the company. Moran says he will help try to secure that funding.

“Mr. Flynn, I would offer my services to you and to Amtrak in trying to embellish to increase the volume of your efforts . . . to get congressional attention to this issue,” Moran said. “It matters a lot and I want to ally myself with efforts of yours and my colleagues to see that the attention necessary (is given) to solve this problem.”&nbsp;

Flynn says Amtrak would need about $5 billion in funds to keep the passenger service as it currently is and to help recover once the pandemic eases. He also said that he and the current Amtrak Board is committed to keep long-distance service running.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603394380813.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. Jerry Moran took time to throw both support and caution to current Amtrak President William Flynn during hearings in Washington on Wednesday.Amtrak has come under the gun over the last year when past leadership threatened to cut service aboard the SW Chief to buses through Kansas and Colorado. Currently, Amtrak has cut service to long-distance trains to three days per week during the pandemic. Moran says he is trying not to be skeptical, but is keeping an eye on where Amtrak is heading.“Previous CEOs at Amtrak were less committed to long-distance passenger service not that long ago,” Moran said. “So when the three-day (service) arrived, it raised concerns that this is another circumstance in which we’re just being played. That this is the continued effort to eliminate or significantly diminish service.”Flynn says Amtrak needs a large infusion of cash to keep the long-distance trains running and that there are few options available in finding funds from within the company. Moran says he will help try to secure that funding.“Mr. Flynn, I would offer my services to you and to Amtrak in trying to embellish to increase the volume of your efforts . . . to get congressional attention to this issue,” Moran said. “It matters a lot and I want to ally myself with efforts of yours and my colleagues to see that the attention necessary (is given) to solve this problem.”&nbsp;Flynn says Amtrak would need about $5 billion in funds to keep the passenger service as it currently is and to help recover once the pandemic eases. He also said that he and the current Amtrak Board is committed to keep long-distance service running.

Moran offers his assistance to help Amtrak find funding

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The earnings reports kicked off Thursday with <a href="https://www.progressiverailroading.com/union_pacific/">Union Pacific Railroad</a> releasing its third quarter earnings. Despite lower car loads and a drop in revenue, cost-saving measures and lower fuel prices propelled the nation's largest railroad to its best quarterly positive operating ratio in company history.

UP reported net income decreased 12% to $1.4 billion, or $2.01 per diluted share, from $1.6 billion, or $2.22 per diluted share, in the same quarter last year.

Operating revenue in the quarter fell 11% to $4.9 billion from a year ago. Third quarter business volumes, as measured by total revenue car loads, decreased 4%. Premium volumes increased compared to Q3 2019, while industrial and bulk declined, UP officials said in a press release.

UP operates about 25 trains per day in Reno County. ADM will be next in line to release its earnings. That happens Friday, Oct. 30.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580436113815.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The earnings reports kicked off Thursday with <a href="https://www.progressiverailroading.com/union_pacific/">Union Pacific Railroad</a> releasing its third quarter earnings. Despite lower car loads and a drop in revenue, cost-saving measures and lower fuel prices propelled the nation's largest railroad to its best quarterly positive operating ratio in company history.UP reported net income decreased 12% to $1.4 billion, or $2.01 per diluted share, from $1.6 billion, or $2.22 per diluted share, in the same quarter last year.Operating revenue in the quarter fell 11% to $4.9 billion from a year ago. Third quarter business volumes, as measured by total revenue car loads, decreased 4%. Premium volumes increased compared to Q3 2019, while industrial and bulk declined, UP officials said in a press release.UP operates about 25 trains per day in Reno County. ADM will be next in line to release its earnings. That happens Friday, Oct. 30.&nbsp;

UP weathers pandemic with solid 3Q numbers

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department announced Thursday that it has set up additional testing locations through the remainder of 2020.&nbsp;

The location for all of the following dates is at the Kansas State Fairgrounds Oz Building Breezeway.&nbsp;

Starting next week, the Health Department will provide testing every Tuesday and every other Saturday.

Tuesdays, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24: 4 p.m. -7 p.m.

Tuesdays, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Appointment times are encouraged to reduce your wait time onsite, however, walk-ins are welcome. All people, regardless of symptoms and exposure, are encouraged to be tested.&nbsp;

Residents are asked to call 1-844-834-3657 to schedule an appointment.

Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585145128626.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Health Department announced Thursday that it has set up additional testing locations through the remainder of 2020.&nbsp;The location for all of the following dates is at the Kansas State Fairgrounds Oz Building Breezeway.&nbsp;Starting next week, the Health Department will provide testing every Tuesday and every other Saturday.Testing dates include:Tuesday, Oct 27: 4 p.m. - 7p.m.November 2020Tuesdays, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24: 4 p.m. -7 p.m.Saturdays, Nov 7, 21: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.December 2020Tuesdays, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.Saturdays, Dec. 5, 19: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.Appointment times are encouraged to reduce your wait time onsite, however, walk-ins are welcome. All people, regardless of symptoms and exposure, are encouraged to be tested.&nbsp;Residents are asked to call 1-844-834-3657 to schedule an appointment.Please continue to be vigilant by washing your hands, social distance by at least six feet or more, wear a mask when you are in public places and stay at home if you are not feeling well. It is very important that people continue to follow the guidelines to help decrease the spread of COVID-19.

County to set up additional testing sites at fairgrounds


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson's fire and police departments have had to handle COVID-19, but they are still doing okay for personnel at this point.

"We did run into some issues here within the department in the past months with people contracting COVID on the department," said Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer. "We dealt with that, but it hasn't wiped out my workforce like I anticipated it could have. We're not doing a lot of community engagements and stuff. We're trying to keep the fire stations clean, because these guys and gals take enough risks on a daily basis just going on these calls with sick individuals."

Police Chief Jeff Hooper noted one particular area where they have struggled.

"I have not had one of my officers that has had COVID," Hooper said. "We have had several that have been exposed and have been tested and been out of work for a few days pending those tests. Where we have been hit has been in our dispatch communications center. I believe I've got two dispatchers out right now with COVID and then we've also had others that have been exposed and been out for a significant period of time."

The dispatch situation may even result in an operational change, if it becomes necessary.

"They can't really social distance," Hooper said. "Those employees are fairly close together. We're currently operating out of our backup site because of the renovation at the police department. That's even a more confined space. Right now, we're actually looking at some solutions to probably spin up a secondary backup site."

This might be needed if the site they are at needs cleaning if exposure is found to have happened there and to allow them to go back and forth if necessary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580485962223.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson's fire and police departments have had to handle COVID-19, but they are still doing okay for personnel at this point."We did run into some issues here within the department in the past months with people contracting COVID on the department," said Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer. "We dealt with that, but it hasn't wiped out my workforce like I anticipated it could have. We're not doing a lot of community engagements and stuff. We're trying to keep the fire stations clean, because these guys and gals take enough risks on a daily basis just going on these calls with sick individuals."Police Chief Jeff Hooper noted one particular area where they have struggled."I have not had one of my officers that has had COVID," Hooper said. "We have had several that have been exposed and have been tested and been out of work for a few days pending those tests. Where we have been hit has been in our dispatch communications center. I believe I've got two dispatchers out right now with COVID and then we've also had others that have been exposed and been out for a significant period of time."The dispatch situation may even result in an operational change, if it becomes necessary."They can't really social distance," Hooper said. "Those employees are fairly close together. We're currently operating out of our backup site because of the renovation at the police department. That's even a more confined space. Right now, we're actually looking at some solutions to probably spin up a secondary backup site."This might be needed if the site they are at needs cleaning if exposure is found to have happened there and to allow them to go back and forth if necessary.

Fire and police personnel OK for now, dispatch is an issue with COVID-19


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst wants to be clear that even though precautions, like indoor mask wearing, need to be taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, people shouldn't be afraid of patronizing businesses in the county or of going to work, as long as they are taking those precautions.

"Our local businesses, they're doing a great job to provide you, as well as their employees with a good, healthy, safe place to shop and just let you go about your daily routine," Hirst said.

Hirst is encouraging people to find a balance as they go about their business.

"My philosophy is, don't let fear run your life," Hirst said. "Just be cautious and respect other people."

Hirst also praised local manufacturers for how they are handling the pandemic.

"They want to provide you with a safe and healthy workplace, so you can make a living and they can make money," Hirst said. "It's pretty simple. They're going to do proper things or certainly try to do it."

Hirst also said though there is some fatigue from having to make decisions as the county board of health, don't get frustrated with the health department for the data they present. They're just trying to give an accurate picture of where we are. If you have questions, feel free to contact Hirst or whoever is the commissioner from your area. There is a contact form on <a href="https://www.renogov.org/">renogov.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603379133702.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County Commissioner Ron Hirst wants to be clear that even though precautions, like indoor mask wearing, need to be taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, people shouldn't be afraid of patronizing businesses in the county or of going to work, as long as they are taking those precautions."Our local businesses, they're doing a great job to provide you, as well as their employees with a good, healthy, safe place to shop and just let you go about your daily routine," Hirst said.Hirst is encouraging people to find a balance as they go about their business."My philosophy is, don't let fear run your life," Hirst said. "Just be cautious and respect other people."Hirst also praised local manufacturers for how they are handling the pandemic."They want to provide you with a safe and healthy workplace, so you can make a living and they can make money," Hirst said. "It's pretty simple. They're going to do proper things or certainly try to do it."Hirst also said though there is some fatigue from having to make decisions as the county board of health, don't get frustrated with the health department for the data they present. They're just trying to give an accurate picture of where we are. If you have questions, feel free to contact Hirst or whoever is the commissioner from your area. There is a contact form on <a href="https://www.renogov.org/">renogov.org</a>.

Hirst: Take precautions, but support local businesses

HUTCHINSON,
Kan.— A Hutchinson man who is serving a life sentence for the 1978 murder of
his wife will have an appeal come before the Kansas Supreme Court next week. 

Phillip
Parks filed the motion in 2019 and the matter is up on the summary calendar for
next week. No oral arguments will be heard in the case.

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

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

In the
current motion that will go before the Kansas Supreme Court next week, Parks argues that his
conviction for an unclassified felony before 1993 should be scored as a
non person felony. The district court disagreed and summarily denied his motion.


Parks then took his motion to the Kansas Supreme
Court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602791058568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON,
Kan.— A Hutchinson man who is serving a life sentence for the 1978 murder of
his wife will have an appeal come before the Kansas Supreme Court next week. Phillip
Parks filed the motion in 2019 and the matter is up on the summary calendar for
next week. No oral arguments will be heard in the case.Parks was
convicted of killing Rachel Parks in 1997 after pleading no contest. The
discovery of Parks crime in Hutchinson came 19 years after it happened when he was convicted of
the attempted murder of his new wife in New Mexico. At that time Parks told his
wife he would have to kill her just like he killed Rachel.Parks had a
long fight through the appeals court system to withdraw his plea deal which was denied
by the state and Supreme Court. In the
current motion that will go before the Kansas Supreme Court next week, Parks argues that his
conviction for an unclassified felony before 1993 should be scored as a
non person felony. The district court disagreed and summarily denied his motion.
Parks then took his motion to the Kansas Supreme
Court.

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