The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Kim Nollette Agency, LLC – American Family Insurance on March 20. The Chamber recently welcomed Kim Nollette Agency, LLC as a new Chamber Member and part of the local business community.

Located at 1925 10th Street in Great Bend, the Kim Nollette Agency offers coverage for auto, home, life, and commercial insurance needs. Agent and Owner Kim Nollette and her team help individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most with policies tailored to fit every stage of life.

The agency welcomes customers to call, walk in, text, or connect via social media.&nbsp;

For more information, contact Kim Nollette at 620-698-8000, email knollett@amfam.com, or stop by the office at 1925 10th Street in Great Bend.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743104765409.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSThe Great Bend Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Kim Nollette Agency, LLC – American Family Insurance on March 20. The Chamber recently welcomed Kim Nollette Agency, LLC as a new Chamber Member and part of the local business community.Located at 1925 10th Street in Great Bend, the Kim Nollette Agency offers coverage for auto, home, life, and commercial insurance needs. Agent and Owner Kim Nollette and her team help individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most with policies tailored to fit every stage of life.The agency welcomes customers to call, walk in, text, or connect via social media.&nbsp;For more information, contact Kim Nollette at 620-698-8000, email knollett@amfam.com, or stop by the office at 1925 10th Street in Great Bend.&nbsp;

Great Bend Chamber welcomes Kim Nollette Agency, LLC 

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

At last week’s USD 428 Board of Education luncheon at Great Bend Middle
School, Principal Myron Ellegood presented data on the impact of the school’s
promotion and retention policy. That policy goes over the criteria for a
student to advance to the next grade level and what could cause them to repeat
a grade.


In the 2022-2023 school year, the percentage of students passing all of their classes
at the end of the first semester was 75%. Ellegood said after the first year
the policy was implemented in 2023-2024, that number grew to 93%.


"We had a number of students, more so in the 8th grade, that thought I'm going to be a freshman and I don't need to pass these classes," said Ellegood. "They may be failing four or six classes."

In 2022-2023, the total number of “F” grades at the end of the first semester
at Great Bend Middle School was 281. The following year, the total number of “F”
grades dropped to 147.


"We implemented if they fail a core class at semester, they get placed in the Edgenuity in the second semester," said Ellegood. "It takes the place of one of their electives. They have to complete that by the end of the year; otherwise, they get placed into summer school. We're in talks with and working with the high school to help us with those that don't complete summer school on their next consequence."

For the first semester of this year, Ellegood reported that 90% of the students
are passing all of their classes and there were 87 total “F” grades.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743177024731.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt last week’s USD 428 Board of Education luncheon at Great Bend Middle
School, Principal Myron Ellegood presented data on the impact of the school’s
promotion and retention policy. That policy goes over the criteria for a
student to advance to the next grade level and what could cause them to repeat
a grade.
In the 2022-2023 school year, the percentage of students passing all of their classes
at the end of the first semester was 75%. Ellegood said after the first year
the policy was implemented in 2023-2024, that number grew to 93%.
"We had a number of students, more so in the 8th grade, that thought I'm going to be a freshman and I don't need to pass these classes," said Ellegood. "They may be failing four or six classes."In 2022-2023, the total number of “F” grades at the end of the first semester
at Great Bend Middle School was 281. The following year, the total number of “F”
grades dropped to 147.
"We implemented if they fail a core class at semester, they get placed in the Edgenuity in the second semester," said Ellegood. "It takes the place of one of their electives. They have to complete that by the end of the year; otherwise, they get placed into summer school. We're in talks with and working with the high school to help us with those that don't complete summer school on their next consequence."For the first semester of this year, Ellegood reported that 90% of the students
are passing all of their classes and there were 87 total “F” grades.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Middle School seeing number of ‘F’ grades drop

STAFFORD COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on multiple allegaions after a drug bust in Stafford County.

Just after 10a.m. Friday, the&nbsp;Stafford County Kansas Sheriff's Office initiated a search warrant at 117 N Spickard Avenue in Macksville, Kansas, according to a media release. Deputies took 47-year-old Jeremy Luce and 37-year-old Desiree Parks.

 During the search Law Enforcement recovered firearms, ammunition, explosives, crossbows, fentanyl, methamphetamine,&nbsp; marijuana, drug paraphernalia, electronic devices, 17 dogs, 3 pigs, 2 pythons, and a salamander from inside the home.

Deputies transported both to Barton County Jail. Luce is being held on a $200,000 bond on requested charges that include&nbsp; Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Child Endangerment, Animal Abuse, Possession of Explosives, Identity Theft, Distribution of Stimulants within 1000 feet of a school and Possession of Marijuana

&nbsp;Parks is being held on a $150,000 bond on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,&nbsp; Child Endangerment, Animal Abuse, Identity theft, Distribution of Stimulants within 1000 feet of a school and Possession of Marijuana.

Residents in Stafford County helped with the animals involved, according to the sheriff's office. In December, deputies in Osage County arrested Luce on drug distribution allegations, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

The entry and search in Macksville were conducted by the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Macksville Police Department,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SJPDKS?__cft__[0]=AZXRSAIEIlnsyAlTaj1QJ5J0TIRnDR6CUk0hpUrBVvblU-kdYa0f_8T9hso438ogCBlvRpoGVghGLPnntl4xI3eSp64uFYBKXRSRUrNBVMCe7hsVpDse_K8IcWU_DltMaI6aSU0rOCDw-1T6wc1PPMjEvnuKfl39HHnxhRTWzdGKqxIfj7kdqtFEcCy5mHE6hm_V4X0hphEMrI8lpEki88U13-f0v38rN6DUdJeOQSt4XA&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">St. John, Kansas Police Department</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/StaffordKSPD?__cft__[0]=AZXRSAIEIlnsyAlTaj1QJ5J0TIRnDR6CUk0hpUrBVvblU-kdYa0f_8T9hso438ogCBlvRpoGVghGLPnntl4xI3eSp64uFYBKXRSRUrNBVMCe7hsVpDse_K8IcWU_DltMaI6aSU0rOCDw-1T6wc1PPMjEvnuKfl39HHnxhRTWzdGKqxIfj7kdqtFEcCy5mHE6hm_V4X0hphEMrI8lpEki88U13-f0v38rN6DUdJeOQSt4XA&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Stafford Police Department</a>, Stafford K9 Unit, Kansas Highway Patrol, KHP K9 Unit, Kansas Wildlife &amp; Parks and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559058190464&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXRSAIEIlnsyAlTaj1QJ5J0TIRnDR6CUk0hpUrBVvblU-kdYa0f_8T9hso438ogCBlvRpoGVghGLPnntl4xI3eSp64uFYBKXRSRUrNBVMCe7hsVpDse_K8IcWU_DltMaI6aSU0rOCDw-1T6wc1PPMjEvnuKfl39HHnxhRTWzdGKqxIfj7kdqtFEcCy5mHE6hm_V4X0hphEMrI8lpEki88U13-f0v38rN6DUdJeOQSt4XA&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Stafford County</a>&nbsp;Communications Tactical Unit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743263249357.png" alt="Parks photo Stafford Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Parks photo Stafford Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>STAFFORD COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on multiple allegaions after a drug bust in Stafford County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743263336306.png" alt="Luce photo Stafford Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Luce photo Stafford Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 10a.m. Friday, the&nbsp;Stafford County Kansas Sheriff's Office initiated a search warrant at 117 N Spickard Avenue in Macksville, Kansas, according to a media release. Deputies took 47-year-old Jeremy Luce and 37-year-old Desiree Parks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743263985474.png" alt="-Photo Stafford Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>-Photo Stafford Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure> During the search Law Enforcement recovered firearms, ammunition, explosives, crossbows, fentanyl, methamphetamine,&nbsp; marijuana, drug paraphernalia, electronic devices, 17 dogs, 3 pigs, 2 pythons, and a salamander from inside the home.Deputies transported both to Barton County Jail. Luce is being held on a $200,000 bond on requested charges that include&nbsp; Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Child Endangerment, Animal Abuse, Possession of Explosives, Identity Theft, Distribution of Stimulants within 1000 feet of a school and Possession of Marijuana&nbsp;Parks is being held on a $150,000 bond on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,&nbsp; Child Endangerment, Animal Abuse, Identity theft, Distribution of Stimulants within 1000 feet of a school and Possession of Marijuana.Residents in Stafford County helped with the animals involved, according to the sheriff's office. In December, deputies in Osage County arrested Luce on drug distribution allegations, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.The entry and search in Macksville were conducted by the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Macksville Police Department,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SJPDKS?__cft__[0]=AZXRSAIEIlnsyAlTaj1QJ5J0TIRnDR6CUk0hpUrBVvblU-kdYa0f_8T9hso438ogCBlvRpoGVghGLPnntl4xI3eSp64uFYBKXRSRUrNBVMCe7hsVpDse_K8IcWU_DltMaI6aSU0rOCDw-1T6wc1PPMjEvnuKfl39HHnxhRTWzdGKqxIfj7kdqtFEcCy5mHE6hm_V4X0hphEMrI8lpEki88U13-f0v38rN6DUdJeOQSt4XA&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">St. John, Kansas Police Department</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/StaffordKSPD?__cft__[0]=AZXRSAIEIlnsyAlTaj1QJ5J0TIRnDR6CUk0hpUrBVvblU-kdYa0f_8T9hso438ogCBlvRpoGVghGLPnntl4xI3eSp64uFYBKXRSRUrNBVMCe7hsVpDse_K8IcWU_DltMaI6aSU0rOCDw-1T6wc1PPMjEvnuKfl39HHnxhRTWzdGKqxIfj7kdqtFEcCy5mHE6hm_V4X0hphEMrI8lpEki88U13-f0v38rN6DUdJeOQSt4XA&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Stafford Police Department</a>, Stafford K9 Unit, Kansas Highway Patrol, KHP K9 Unit, Kansas Wildlife &amp; Parks and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559058190464&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXRSAIEIlnsyAlTaj1QJ5J0TIRnDR6CUk0hpUrBVvblU-kdYa0f_8T9hso438ogCBlvRpoGVghGLPnntl4xI3eSp64uFYBKXRSRUrNBVMCe7hsVpDse_K8IcWU_DltMaI6aSU0rOCDw-1T6wc1PPMjEvnuKfl39HHnxhRTWzdGKqxIfj7kdqtFEcCy5mHE6hm_V4X0hphEMrI8lpEki88U13-f0v38rN6DUdJeOQSt4XA&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Stafford County</a>&nbsp;Communications Tactical Unit.

Deputies found explosives, fentanyl and pythons at Stafford Co. home

--&nbsp; EVENT CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER FORECAST&nbsp; --

Barton Community College’s Early Childhood Education Program will host a free family event, “Wheels and Squeals,” from 9 a.m. to noon April 5 to celebrate the national Week of the Young Child.

The event will be held at the Case New Holland Parking Lot and Building, which is located at the northeast corner of the college’s campus. The event will feature hands-on activities, including a “Touch-a-Truck” experience where children can explore large vehicles such as tractors. Other child-friendly activities include planting flowers, interacting with baby animals, and crafting.

Barton Instructor and Coordinator of Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education KellyAnn Bonnell said she was excited to celebrate young children and their families.

&nbsp;“We wanted to create an event that included numerous hands-on, collaborative activities that encourage play and exploration,” she said. “It’s also a great opportunity to focus attention on the needs of our youngest learners and their families.”

Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.

The Week of the Young Child is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the world’s largest early childhood education association, with nearly 60,000 members and a network of 51 affiliates.

NAEYC first established the Week of the Young Child in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years (birth through age 8) lay the foundation for children’s success in school and later in life. The Week of the Young Child is a time to think about how society can better meet the needs of all young children and their families.

For more information, contact Bonnell at (620) 786-1130 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bonnellk@bartonccc.edu">bonnellk@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743104504508.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>--&nbsp; EVENT CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER FORECAST&nbsp; --Barton Community College’s Early Childhood Education Program will host a free family event, “Wheels and Squeals,” from 9 a.m. to noon April 5 to celebrate the national Week of the Young Child.The event will be held at the Case New Holland Parking Lot and Building, which is located at the northeast corner of the college’s campus. The event will feature hands-on activities, including a “Touch-a-Truck” experience where children can explore large vehicles such as tractors. Other child-friendly activities include planting flowers, interacting with baby animals, and crafting.Barton Instructor and Coordinator of Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education KellyAnn Bonnell said she was excited to celebrate young children and their families.&nbsp;“We wanted to create an event that included numerous hands-on, collaborative activities that encourage play and exploration,” she said. “It’s also a great opportunity to focus attention on the needs of our youngest learners and their families.”Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.The Week of the Young Child is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the world’s largest early childhood education association, with nearly 60,000 members and a network of 51 affiliates.NAEYC first established the Week of the Young Child in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years (birth through age 8) lay the foundation for children’s success in school and later in life. The Week of the Young Child is a time to think about how society can better meet the needs of all young children and their families.For more information, contact Bonnell at (620) 786-1130 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bonnellk@bartonccc.edu">bonnellk@bartonccc.edu</a>.

CANCELED: Barton Community College's 'Wheels and Squeals' 

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Media's Dakota Tucker and Barton County Attorney Colin Reynolds that aired March 27, 2025.

The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Media's Dakota Tucker and Barton County Attorney Colin Reynolds that aired March 27, 2025.<div><iframe title="County Edition: Barton Co. Attorney Colin Reynolds" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=f4uft-1864181-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Barton County Attorney Colin Reynolds

The Barton County Historical Society will host a volunteer orientation at 2 p.m., Sunday, April 6 at the museum, 85 S. Hwy. 281, Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone who is interested in volunteering may attend the short orientation for information about various volunteer opportunities and upcoming events.

The historical village will change to summer hours beginning Tuesday, April 8, running through the end of October.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hours will be Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 1-5 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;The museum is closed on Mondays.

Those attending the orientation have no obligation to volunteer yet are invited to the free event to learn more about the museum and Barton County’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about volunteering, please contact Karen Naylor, BCHS volunteer coordinator, at (620 793-6394.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743103290512.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Historical Society will host a volunteer orientation at 2 p.m., Sunday, April 6 at the museum, 85 S. Hwy. 281, Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone who is interested in volunteering may attend the short orientation for information about various volunteer opportunities and upcoming events.The historical village will change to summer hours beginning Tuesday, April 8, running through the end of October.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hours will be Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 1-5 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;The museum is closed on Mondays.Those attending the orientation have no obligation to volunteer yet are invited to the free event to learn more about the museum and Barton County’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about volunteering, please contact Karen Naylor, BCHS volunteer coordinator, at (620 793-6394.

Barton Co. Historical Society to host volunteer orientation

League of Women Voters Barton Co. holding pizza fundraiser

From the Golden Belt Community Foundation...

An endowment is more than just a fund—it’s a long-term investment in the future. By building lasting financial resources, endowments ensure that organizations have ongoing support for critical projects, enhancing the quality of life for years to come. Thanks to the foresight of community leaders, the City of Hoisington took a bold step in early 2020 by establishing the City of Hoisington Quality of Life Endowment Fund through the Golden Belt Community Foundation.

With an initial gift of $147,500, the endowment has since grown to more than $1 million in assets. This growth translates into a perpetual source of funding for projects that enrich the Hoisington community. Since its inception, the endowment has already helped improve two community parks, fund critical water infrastructure, and improve the City Hall gymnasium—enhancements that make Hoisington a better place to live, work, and play.

The park improvements include a new playscape at Bicentennial Park, two zip line structures at Heritage Park, a new swing set, additional play equipment, and an upcoming gaga ball pit installation made possible through endowment proceeds and partnerships with a local 4-H club and the Golden Belt Community Foundation.

“The endowment will help fund quality of life projects for generations to come,” said Mayor Chris Kinman. “As the endowment grows, so does the ability to enhance our community.”

Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the fund’s lasting impact. “A contribution to the endowment fund is an investment in our community. As the fund grows, our community grows.” He continued, “Over the years, city officials and staff will come and go, but this endowment will last forever.”

The City of Hoisington Quality of Life Endowment stands as a testament to the power of strategic giving. Through this endowment, Hoisington is ensuring its future remains bright, offering opportunities to serve all members of the community—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

If your city or organization is located in Barton, Rush, Pawnee, or Stafford County and wants to create a lasting impact, an endowment can ensure funding for a lifetime—and beyond. By establishing an endowment through the Golden Belt Community Foundation, you’re not just planning for today; you’re building an enduring resource that will support your community for generations.

To learn more about how an endowment fund can help your community thrive, contact Jason Murray, Executive Director at the Golden Belt Community Foundation. If you’d like to learn more about the City of Hoisington’s Quality of Life Endowment Fund or make an investment in Hoisington’s growth, please contact the City of Hoisington or the Golden Belt Community Foundation at 620-792-3000.

Golden Belt Community Foundation At $36 million in total assets and more than 180 funds under management, the Golden Belt Community Foundation has been connecting people who care to causes that matter since 1996. Golden Belt Community Foundation exists to provide non-profit organizations in central Kansas with a permanent source of support and to serve as a vehicle for charitable giving for donors. GBCF serves the counties of Barton, Pawnee, Rush, and Stafford. For more information about Golden Belt Community Foundation, call (620) 792-3000 or visit their website at www.goldenbeltcf.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743102278098.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>From the Golden Belt Community Foundation...An endowment is more than just a fund—it’s a long-term investment in the future. By building lasting financial resources, endowments ensure that organizations have ongoing support for critical projects, enhancing the quality of life for years to come. Thanks to the foresight of community leaders, the City of Hoisington took a bold step in early 2020 by establishing the City of Hoisington Quality of Life Endowment Fund through the Golden Belt Community Foundation.With an initial gift of $147,500, the endowment has since grown to more than $1 million in assets. This growth translates into a perpetual source of funding for projects that enrich the Hoisington community. Since its inception, the endowment has already helped improve two community parks, fund critical water infrastructure, and improve the City Hall gymnasium—enhancements that make Hoisington a better place to live, work, and play.The park improvements include a new playscape at Bicentennial Park, two zip line structures at Heritage Park, a new swing set, additional play equipment, and an upcoming gaga ball pit installation made possible through endowment proceeds and partnerships with a local 4-H club and the Golden Belt Community Foundation.“The endowment will help fund quality of life projects for generations to come,” said Mayor Chris Kinman. “As the endowment grows, so does the ability to enhance our community.”Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the fund’s lasting impact. “A contribution to the endowment fund is an investment in our community. As the fund grows, our community grows.” He continued, “Over the years, city officials and staff will come and go, but this endowment will last forever.”The City of Hoisington Quality of Life Endowment stands as a testament to the power of strategic giving. Through this endowment, Hoisington is ensuring its future remains bright, offering opportunities to serve all members of the community—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.If your city or organization is located in Barton, Rush, Pawnee, or Stafford County and wants to create a lasting impact, an endowment can ensure funding for a lifetime—and beyond. By establishing an endowment through the Golden Belt Community Foundation, you’re not just planning for today; you’re building an enduring resource that will support your community for generations.To learn more about how an endowment fund can help your community thrive, contact Jason Murray, Executive Director at the Golden Belt Community Foundation. If you’d like to learn more about the City of Hoisington’s Quality of Life Endowment Fund or make an investment in Hoisington’s growth, please contact the City of Hoisington or the Golden Belt Community Foundation at 620-792-3000.Golden Belt Community Foundation At $36 million in total assets and more than 180 funds under management, the Golden Belt Community Foundation has been connecting people who care to causes that matter since 1996. Golden Belt Community Foundation exists to provide non-profit organizations in central Kansas with a permanent source of support and to serve as a vehicle for charitable giving for donors. GBCF serves the counties of Barton, Pawnee, Rush, and Stafford. For more information about Golden Belt Community Foundation, call (620) 792-3000 or visit their website at www.goldenbeltcf.org.

Endowment funds new playground equipment in Hoisington

It’s not often the people of Kansas get to hold a “referendum” on state legislation. In fact, they can’t. At least not on their own.&nbsp;Under our state’s constitution, we operate a representative democracy electing legislators to make decisions on our behalf and ultimately hold them accountable every 2-4 years. This&nbsp;indirect&nbsp;democracy can be viewed as a paternalistic relationship between electeds and electorate. A reassuring pat on the head from politicians that lawmaking is their province, and they will call us when needed.

So anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power on one issue, we should stand up and take note.

And anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power forever, we should stand up, take note, and run as fast as we can to our polling place before they change their minds.

Which is why we should really take notice of what the conservative-controlled legislature did last week when the required two-thirds majority passed&nbsp;SCR 1611, a proposed constitutional amendment asking&nbsp;voters on August 4, 2026, if we should elect (not just retain) our seven Supreme Court justices. Not only do we get invited to dinner, but it’s a permanent invite and we get to buy the groceries!

That is not to say electing the Supreme Court is totally advisable.

On its face, SCR 1611 is a de facto “referendum” on the current&nbsp;merit-based selection process&nbsp;controlled by bar-appointed lawyers and governor-appointed citizens. Passed by 70% of the electorate in 1958 after Gov. Fred Hall’s infamous&nbsp;triple-play scandal, the system was enacted to keep Supreme Court selections free of corruption, moneyed interests, and political bosses.&nbsp;But if you use your sunflower-colored glasses and squint through the Oz dust of&nbsp;debate, you might also see a glimmer of hope…direct&nbsp;democracy!&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;26 states&nbsp;provide for some form of direct, or pure, democracy that bypass legislatures with citizen-initiated ballot measures for new laws (initiatives) and/or vetoes (referendums) through collection of signatures (petitions). Laws without lawmakers.

Sadly, Kansas does not; Gov. Joan Finney was the last to earnestly push the issue in the early 1990s. Technically, SCR 1611 is not direct democracy either, but it’s close. It has no citizen-initiated lawmaking. But citizens gain a direct line to pick justices who enforce the biggest law (Kansas constitution) and the weightiest legal question of our time (women’s right to an abortion).&nbsp;So why stop there?&nbsp;The&nbsp;Kansas Constitution&nbsp;already allows citizen-initiated ballot measures for cities, counties, and school districts.&nbsp;All adjoining states - Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, and Oklahoma - allow it; and all but five states west of the Mississippi.64% of states with&nbsp;part-time "citizen" legislatures, like Kansas, allow it.

Most of all, big issues&nbsp;supported&nbsp;by a majority of Kansans but ignored by legislative leadership - Medicaid expansion (72%), recreational marijuana (65%), a women’s right to choose (65%), assault weapon bans (55%) – could be put to a vote of the people once and for all.&nbsp;Even Senate President, Ty Masterson (R-Andover), and expected 2026 gubernatorial candidate who led the charge for SCR 1611&nbsp;believes&nbsp;“it’s time to give the people the opportunity to assume that power and tear down firewalls and shine the light of democracy we all claim to support.”&nbsp;I couldn’t agree more. If legislative leaders are truly ingenuous about tearing down judiciary firewalls for the people, their own firewalls should be next.

Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713976057142.jpeg" alt="written by: Bill Fiander - Lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka." />
 <figcaption>written by: Bill Fiander - Lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s not often the people of Kansas get to hold a “referendum” on state legislation. In fact, they can’t. At least not on their own.&nbsp;Under our state’s constitution, we operate a representative democracy electing legislators to make decisions on our behalf and ultimately hold them accountable every 2-4 years. This&nbsp;indirect&nbsp;democracy can be viewed as a paternalistic relationship between electeds and electorate. A reassuring pat on the head from politicians that lawmaking is their province, and they will call us when needed.So anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power on one issue, we should stand up and take note.And anytime our legislature agrees to offer us a chance at direct power forever, we should stand up, take note, and run as fast as we can to our polling place before they change their minds.Which is why we should really take notice of what the conservative-controlled legislature did last week when the required two-thirds majority passed&nbsp;SCR 1611, a proposed constitutional amendment asking&nbsp;voters on August 4, 2026, if we should elect (not just retain) our seven Supreme Court justices. Not only do we get invited to dinner, but it’s a permanent invite and we get to buy the groceries!That is not to say electing the Supreme Court is totally advisable.On its face, SCR 1611 is a de facto “referendum” on the current&nbsp;merit-based selection process&nbsp;controlled by bar-appointed lawyers and governor-appointed citizens. Passed by 70% of the electorate in 1958 after Gov. Fred Hall’s infamous&nbsp;triple-play scandal, the system was enacted to keep Supreme Court selections free of corruption, moneyed interests, and political bosses.&nbsp;But if you use your sunflower-colored glasses and squint through the Oz dust of&nbsp;debate, you might also see a glimmer of hope…direct&nbsp;democracy!&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;26 states&nbsp;provide for some form of direct, or pure, democracy that bypass legislatures with citizen-initiated ballot measures for new laws (initiatives) and/or vetoes (referendums) through collection of signatures (petitions). Laws without lawmakers.Sadly, Kansas does not; Gov. Joan Finney was the last to earnestly push the issue in the early 1990s. Technically, SCR 1611 is not direct democracy either, but it’s close. It has no citizen-initiated lawmaking. But citizens gain a direct line to pick justices who enforce the biggest law (Kansas constitution) and the weightiest legal question of our time (women’s right to an abortion).&nbsp;So why stop there?&nbsp;The&nbsp;Kansas Constitution&nbsp;already allows citizen-initiated ballot measures for cities, counties, and school districts.&nbsp;All adjoining states - Colorado, Nebraska, Missouri, and Oklahoma - allow it; and all but five states west of the Mississippi.64% of states with&nbsp;part-time "citizen" legislatures, like Kansas, allow it.Most of all, big issues&nbsp;supported&nbsp;by a majority of Kansans but ignored by legislative leadership - Medicaid expansion (72%), recreational marijuana (65%), a women’s right to choose (65%), assault weapon bans (55%) – could be put to a vote of the people once and for all.&nbsp;Even Senate President, Ty Masterson (R-Andover), and expected 2026 gubernatorial candidate who led the charge for SCR 1611&nbsp;believes&nbsp;“it’s time to give the people the opportunity to assume that power and tear down firewalls and shine the light of democracy we all claim to support.”&nbsp;I couldn’t agree more. If legislative leaders are truly ingenuous about tearing down judiciary firewalls for the people, their own firewalls should be next.Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Insight Kansas: Electing the Supreme Court? Why stop there?

It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/15ef8449-e879-498f-9371-2843f1a45116">Great Bend man arrested after hiding under child's bed</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/73c7624c-e551-4def-a7b0-2b8599ec872f">New outdoor Great Bend festival launches June 7</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c7e7da22-8403-4443-a569-bb99811a73f2">Great Bend baseball coach Beck retiring after 30 years at USD 428</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743002480672.png" alt="Martin Villalobos Jr was arrested Tuesday, March 25 after found hiding under a child's bed in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Martin Villalobos Jr was arrested Tuesday, March 25 after found hiding under a child's bed in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2065626596&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/12e45d36-20f7-4d3e-9b1c-f931a97bd118" title="News Week in Review" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">News Week in Review</a></div></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/15ef8449-e879-498f-9371-2843f1a45116">Great Bend man arrested after hiding under child's bed</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/73c7624c-e551-4def-a7b0-2b8599ec872f">New outdoor Great Bend festival launches June 7</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/c7e7da22-8403-4443-a569-bb99811a73f2">Great Bend baseball coach Beck retiring after 30 years at USD 428</a>

Eagle Media's news week in review

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Friday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Kenworth semi driven by Cory L.&nbsp;Halling, 45, St. John, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of&nbsp;Snokomo Road.&nbsp; A large rock struck the windshield of the truck.

EMS transported&nbsp;Halling to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of a serious injury. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Friday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Kenworth semi driven by Cory L.&nbsp;Halling, 45, St. John, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of&nbsp;Snokomo Road.&nbsp; A large rock struck the windshield of the truck.EMS transported&nbsp;Halling to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of a serious injury. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details.

Kan. man injured after large rock strikes windshield of semi

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

LARNED—Kansas Department of Health and Environment officials heard Larned residents' concerns about Innovative Livestock's permit submission for a new cattle facility on Tuesday.

The proposed&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services&nbsp;feedlot is designed to house 88,000 beef cattle and will feature open lot pens, storage areas, sediment basins and waste storage ponds.

The facility would be about 10 miles south of Larned.

The KDHE hosted an informational session and public hearing on Tuesday, led by Livestock Waste Management Section Chief Casey Guccione.

"Our review process involves making sure that these facilities meet the laws and regulations that have been defined by the Legislature," Guccione said.

Longtime Larned residents Merrill Cauble and Felix Revello attended the public hearing to oppose the proposed feed yard and advocate for the region.

They outlined concerns regarding water contamination, economic effects, the need for further testing and air pollution.

"To go out and have a nice evening with the family or friends out on your back porch for a barbecue... it ruins the day and evening. You have to take everything inside because it's intolerable outside," Cauble said.

KDHE has drafted a proposed Kansas Water Pollution Control Permit for the facility, which is available on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/436/Livestock-Waste-Management">website</a>.

Although the facility is about 10 miles from Larned, many residents say they will still be affected, especially since other feed yards are already in operation nearby.

One attendee who lives near a feedlot north of Larned said adding another south of town would create more water issues that could affect his children.

"I have a 9-year-old. I want him to be healthy and be able to thrive in his life. If he's going to have all these water issues now, that's going to cause issues for him later," he said.

The attendee went on to share that he received a heart transplant in December and cannot afford to install a new water system.

"I cannot currently shower in my own home because of the water quality, and that's before this new feedlot," he said. "I go into town four to five times a week just to take a shower if people let me."

He adds that he cannot drink his water or wash dishes with it, forcing him to buy cases and gallons to meet basic needs. This expense is one he struggles to afford while out of work.

While many residents voiced opposition and skepticism about KDHE’s ability to protect their community, others showed confidence in the proposed facility and its potential benefits.

One attendee, a farmer who lives about eight miles from the proposed site, said past issues involving&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services were addressed when they arose.

"When they had dust problems, they fixed it. When they needed water, they pipe water from clear across the river to water the pens down. They are good neighbors," he said.

The attendee added Larned is an agricultural community struggling due to a lack of business, and voiced support for the new feedyard, citing the jobs it would create.

"We've got to do this if we want our community to survive and grow," he said.

A farmer from Rozel who owns land near an existing&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services facility also endorsed the project, saying he’s confident the new feed yard will implement all necessary safeguards.

"I'm familiar with the dust and smell," he said.&nbsp;"[Innovative Livestock Services] is a tremendous steward of the ground. From what I see, they do everything right. They take care of the ground and the feed yards."

A representative of the Kansas Livestock Association also appeared to show support.

Another opponent lives about a mile from the site, making him one of the closest residents to the proposed facility who attended the hearing.

A father of three, his concern is groundwater contamination. His home is not connected to a rural water district, and he says nitrate levels are allegedly already high near other feedlots.

"I just wish there was a guarantee that there would be a lot less at this new lot, but living so close, I just don't see it," he said.

Cauble and Revello took turns speaking at the hearing. They raised other concerns about the massive amount of manure the facility would produce, weak KDHE regulations, and questionable groundwater depth data and separation distances.

They urged that no permit be approved until existing environmental issues are resolved.

"Rural Kansas' rights to healthy lives and enjoyment of their homes are being sacrificed to produce enormous wealth for distant owners," Revello said.

Guccione did not address public concerns directly during the hearing. All comments were recorded for a formal written response to be released later.

During the informational session, residents were allowed to ask questions about the permit application. Guccione said KDHE’s review is limited to determining whether the application complies with existing state laws and regulations.

The current draft permit does not include groundwater monitoring. However, Guccione said KDHE, Innovative Livestock Service and the Kansas Livestock Association are discussing including it in the final permit for regular testing.

He said odor and dust fall outside the scope of the permit and are not factored into the permitting process.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743190908046.jpeg" alt="Residents attending the KDHE public hearing for an Innovative Livestock permit at the Larned Community Center. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Residents attending the KDHE public hearing for an Innovative Livestock permit at the Larned Community Center. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostLARNED—Kansas Department of Health and Environment officials heard Larned residents' concerns about Innovative Livestock's permit submission for a new cattle facility on Tuesday.The proposed&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services&nbsp;feedlot is designed to house 88,000 beef cattle and will feature open lot pens, storage areas, sediment basins and waste storage ponds.The facility would be about 10 miles south of Larned.The KDHE hosted an informational session and public hearing on Tuesday, led by Livestock Waste Management Section Chief Casey Guccione."Our review process involves making sure that these facilities meet the laws and regulations that have been defined by the Legislature," Guccione said.Longtime Larned residents Merrill Cauble and Felix Revello attended the public hearing to oppose the proposed feed yard and advocate for the region.They outlined concerns regarding water contamination, economic effects, the need for further testing and air pollution."To go out and have a nice evening with the family or friends out on your back porch for a barbecue... it ruins the day and evening. You have to take everything inside because it's intolerable outside," Cauble said.KDHE has drafted a proposed Kansas Water Pollution Control Permit for the facility, which is available on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/436/Livestock-Waste-Management">website</a>.Although the facility is about 10 miles from Larned, many residents say they will still be affected, especially since other feed yards are already in operation nearby.One attendee who lives near a feedlot north of Larned said adding another south of town would create more water issues that could affect his children."I have a 9-year-old. I want him to be healthy and be able to thrive in his life. If he's going to have all these water issues now, that's going to cause issues for him later," he said.The attendee went on to share that he received a heart transplant in December and cannot afford to install a new water system."I cannot currently shower in my own home because of the water quality, and that's before this new feedlot," he said. "I go into town four to five times a week just to take a shower if people let me."He adds that he cannot drink his water or wash dishes with it, forcing him to buy cases and gallons to meet basic needs. This expense is one he struggles to afford while out of work.While many residents voiced opposition and skepticism about KDHE’s ability to protect their community, others showed confidence in the proposed facility and its potential benefits.One attendee, a farmer who lives about eight miles from the proposed site, said past issues involving&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services were addressed when they arose."When they had dust problems, they fixed it. When they needed water, they pipe water from clear across the river to water the pens down. They are good neighbors," he said.The attendee added Larned is an agricultural community struggling due to a lack of business, and voiced support for the new feedyard, citing the jobs it would create."We've got to do this if we want our community to survive and grow," he said.A farmer from Rozel who owns land near an existing&nbsp;Innovative Livestock Services facility also endorsed the project, saying he’s confident the new feed yard will implement all necessary safeguards."I'm familiar with the dust and smell," he said.&nbsp;"[Innovative Livestock Services] is a tremendous steward of the ground. From what I see, they do everything right. They take care of the ground and the feed yards."A representative of the Kansas Livestock Association also appeared to show support.Another opponent lives about a mile from the site, making him one of the closest residents to the proposed facility who attended the hearing.A father of three, his concern is groundwater contamination. His home is not connected to a rural water district, and he says nitrate levels are allegedly already high near other feedlots."I just wish there was a guarantee that there would be a lot less at this new lot, but living so close, I just don't see it," he said.Cauble and Revello took turns speaking at the hearing. They raised other concerns about the massive amount of manure the facility would produce, weak KDHE regulations, and questionable groundwater depth data and separation distances.They urged that no permit be approved until existing environmental issues are resolved."Rural Kansas' rights to healthy lives and enjoyment of their homes are being sacrificed to produce enormous wealth for distant owners," Revello said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743094176137.jpeg" alt="KDHE Livestock Waste Management Section Chief Casey Guccione speaking to residents at the Larned Community Center. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Livestock Waste Management Section Chief Casey Guccione speaking to residents at the Larned Community Center. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Guccione did not address public concerns directly during the hearing. All comments were recorded for a formal written response to be released later.During the informational session, residents were allowed to ask questions about the permit application. Guccione said KDHE’s review is limited to determining whether the application complies with existing state laws and regulations.The current draft permit does not include groundwater monitoring. However, Guccione said KDHE, Innovative Livestock Service and the Kansas Livestock Association are discussing including it in the final permit for regular testing.He said odor and dust fall outside the scope of the permit and are not factored into the permitting process.

Larned residents voice concerns with ILS feedlot permit

Paul Rios is relying on his recent training and life experiences to facilitate Dads in Action classes that help fathers become more engaged with their children.

The Great Bend man completed facilitator training earlier this year and the pilot class is close to winding down; a new session begins this spring.

“These weekly sessions offer guidance on how dads can re-connect with their kids,” Rios said. “Any dad who is struggling can find new ways to communicate and be there for their children physically, emotionally and spiritually.”

Six fathers are participating in the two-hour class, which meets weekly for several weeks. A date and schedule for the next sessions will be announced in the near future.

Rios has 11 children, ranging in age from 16-30; he also is helping raise his 5-year-old grandson.

“I have been through what the class participants have been through. I have made a lot of mistakes,” he acknowledged. “Sometimes I was present for my kids and a lot of the time I wasn’t.

“During Dads in Action classes, I am working through the curriculum with the other parents. Helping them is helping me.”

Rios referred to his former self as a “broken man from a broken home. I used drugs and alcohol, and was consumed with myself. But I am no longer that man. I am learning to be a positive force instead of a negative force.”

Rios learned about Dads in Action though Amy Ferguson, program coordinator of Rise Up, a task force under the Central Kansas Partnership umbrella.

“After Amy mentioned this class, I prayed about it and the Lord said ‘this is just what you need,’” Rios recalled, noting he is an associate minister at Solid Word Ministries on N. U.S. 281.

Ferguson noted that if a dad is not connected with his kids, no one wins.

“In some families there is a real lack of connection,” Ferguson commented. “Kids are happier when they have a good relationship with their dad because no one can take dad’s place. When there is a disconnection between dad and child, it hurts everyone.

“This Dads in Action project can be part of the answer for those who are struggling,” she added. “I just love this class. It is so meaningful.”

The local program was made possible by a $50,000 DECK grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. DECK stands for Drug Endangered Children in Kansas; the grant funds also are earmarked for two other programs.

The Kansas Department for Children and Families also is involved by offering financial incentives to participants who qualify for assistance with their career, education and/or self-improvement.

Dads in Action follows the National Fatherhood Initiative curriculum, which Ferguson said is a great resource for the facilitator and the classmates.

On its website, the Initiative reports significant improvements have been made in recent years because of fatherhood programs and human-service organizations that help dads overcome challenges and be more engaged in their children’s lives.

However, more than 17 million American children still live without a father being present. The Initiative notes that it is important to continue to increase awareness of the impact of a dad’s involvement, while encouraging communities to include fathers in programs and services.

Rise Up is only one of multiple Central Kansas Partnership task forces, which strive to build grassroots efforts to promote health, wellness and rural-community prosperity.

Task forces tackle issues such as parenthood, along with sponsoring prevention programs that focus on the use of alcohol, drugs and tobacco.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742997094223.jpeg" alt="Paul Rios and Amy Ferguson team up to provide Dads in Action classes in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Paul Rios and Amy Ferguson team up to provide Dads in Action classes in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Rios is relying on his recent training and life experiences to facilitate Dads in Action classes that help fathers become more engaged with their children.The Great Bend man completed facilitator training earlier this year and the pilot class is close to winding down; a new session begins this spring.“These weekly sessions offer guidance on how dads can re-connect with their kids,” Rios said. “Any dad who is struggling can find new ways to communicate and be there for their children physically, emotionally and spiritually.”Six fathers are participating in the two-hour class, which meets weekly for several weeks. A date and schedule for the next sessions will be announced in the near future.Rios has 11 children, ranging in age from 16-30; he also is helping raise his 5-year-old grandson.“I have been through what the class participants have been through. I have made a lot of mistakes,” he acknowledged. “Sometimes I was present for my kids and a lot of the time I wasn’t.“During Dads in Action classes, I am working through the curriculum with the other parents. Helping them is helping me.”Rios referred to his former self as a “broken man from a broken home. I used drugs and alcohol, and was consumed with myself. But I am no longer that man. I am learning to be a positive force instead of a negative force.”Rios learned about Dads in Action though Amy Ferguson, program coordinator of Rise Up, a task force under the Central Kansas Partnership umbrella.“After Amy mentioned this class, I prayed about it and the Lord said ‘this is just what you need,’” Rios recalled, noting he is an associate minister at Solid Word Ministries on N. U.S. 281.Ferguson noted that if a dad is not connected with his kids, no one wins.“In some families there is a real lack of connection,” Ferguson commented. “Kids are happier when they have a good relationship with their dad because no one can take dad’s place. When there is a disconnection between dad and child, it hurts everyone.“This Dads in Action project can be part of the answer for those who are struggling,” she added. “I just love this class. It is so meaningful.”A little backgroundThe local program was made possible by a $50,000 DECK grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. DECK stands for Drug Endangered Children in Kansas; the grant funds also are earmarked for two other programs.The Kansas Department for Children and Families also is involved by offering financial incentives to participants who qualify for assistance with their career, education and/or self-improvement.Dads in Action follows the National Fatherhood Initiative curriculum, which Ferguson said is a great resource for the facilitator and the classmates.On its website, the Initiative reports significant improvements have been made in recent years because of fatherhood programs and human-service organizations that help dads overcome challenges and be more engaged in their children’s lives.However, more than 17 million American children still live without a father being present. The Initiative notes that it is important to continue to increase awareness of the impact of a dad’s involvement, while encouraging communities to include fathers in programs and services.Rise Up is only one of multiple Central Kansas Partnership task forces, which strive to build grassroots efforts to promote health, wellness and rural-community prosperity.Task forces tackle issues such as parenthood, along with sponsoring prevention programs that focus on the use of alcohol, drugs and tobacco.

Dads in Action helps struggling fathers in Barton Co. engage with children

Hear this month's Fueling Kansas show with Eagle Media's Steve Webster and Executive Director of the Kansas Oil and Gas Producers Association Warren Martin that aired March 26, 2025.

The Fueling Kansas program airs the fourth Wednesday every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Fueling Kansas show with Eagle Media's Steve Webster and Executive Director of the Kansas Oil and Gas Producers Association Warren Martin that aired March 26, 2025.<div><iframe title="Fueling Kansas show - oil & gas education" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=a4fcy-1864136-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Fueling Kansas program airs the fourth Wednesday every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Fueling Kansas show - oil & gas education

If you have called or stopped by our Cottonwood Extension Offices, you have spoken to some of the most valuable members of our team!

The agents across the Cottonwood Extension District are blessed to have incredible staff to support and assist in so many ways.

Brenda and Theresa are our office professionals and they manage a multitude of tasks, well beyond answering the phone and greeting those who step through our doors. They help to keep us organized, manage the district finances and website, and occasionally “mom” us when schedules and tasks get overwhelming. In addition, they manage so many tasks for events such as the fairs, Walk Kansas, and much more. We couldn’t function without them!

Jacy is the district-wide program assistant and provides wonderful support from scheduling social media to assisting with programs to general coordination of supplies for those programs. If you happened to see our National Ag Week videos, Jacy took my crazy idea and made it happen to share two books from local authors with 4-H youth reading. Her fun and “can do” attitude make her a joy with whom to work!

We are also fortunate to have a couple of student assistants from time to time in our offices. Kiera is a Barton Community College student and a Midway-Russell 4-H member and brings a willingness to work and help wherever needed. This summer we will have a student summer assistant in each office who assist with copies, fair input, answering the phones, and whatever else is needed. One of our goals is always to expose these students to the larger world of Extension work!

Keep learning! Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>If you have called or stopped by our Cottonwood Extension Offices, you have spoken to some of the most valuable members of our team!The agents across the Cottonwood Extension District are blessed to have incredible staff to support and assist in so many ways.Brenda and Theresa are our office professionals and they manage a multitude of tasks, well beyond answering the phone and greeting those who step through our doors. They help to keep us organized, manage the district finances and website, and occasionally “mom” us when schedules and tasks get overwhelming. In addition, they manage so many tasks for events such as the fairs, Walk Kansas, and much more. We couldn’t function without them!Jacy is the district-wide program assistant and provides wonderful support from scheduling social media to assisting with programs to general coordination of supplies for those programs. If you happened to see our National Ag Week videos, Jacy took my crazy idea and made it happen to share two books from local authors with 4-H youth reading. Her fun and “can do” attitude make her a joy with whom to work!We are also fortunate to have a couple of student assistants from time to time in our offices. Kiera is a Barton Community College student and a Midway-Russell 4-H member and brings a willingness to work and help wherever needed. This summer we will have a student summer assistant in each office who assist with copies, fair input, answering the phones, and whatever else is needed. One of our goals is always to expose these students to the larger world of Extension work!Keep learning! Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

BERAN: It takes a team

HydroChem Spray Services, a provider of residential, commercial and industrial spray applications in central Kansas, will transition to new ownership in 2025. Jeff and Megan Barney will take over the company from longtime owners Mike and Rhonda Snyder, marking the next chapter for the business.

Founded in 1982, HydroChem Spray Services has provided lawn care, fertilization, weed control and bare ground control services for more than 40 years. Mike Snyder, who built and managed the business for more than four decades, will remain with the company as operations manager.

“We were approached by several larger companies interested in buying HydroChem, but I wasn’t comfortable with that,” Snyder said. “We wanted the right person—someone who values what we’ve built and will continue to operate HydroChem with the same commitment to quality and service. Jeff was the right fit, and I’m excited to see what he brings to the company.”

The Barneys, who live in Stafford County near Hudson, bring agricultural roots to the business. Megan is a fourth-generation farmer, and Jeff has worked in grain and transportation for ADM Grain since earning a degree in agricultural economics from Kansas State University. The couple and their three children are active in Calvary Baptist Church, St. John-Hudson Rec, Stafford County Economic Development, FCA and 4-H.

Jeff said the opportunity to own a business while remaining involved in the local community made HydroChem a natural fit.

“HydroChem has been a successful, customer-focused company with a great reputation and a dedicated team,” Jeff Barney said. “We’re not here to make big changes—our focus is on maintaining the trusted service HydroChem has built over the years.”

While there may be internal adjustments with new ownership, HydroChem’s services and customer programs will remain unchanged.&nbsp; The company may expand services in the future, but its core mission will stay the same: providing effective, science-backed treatments to maintain healthy outdoor spaces.

“Mike’s knowledge will stay within the company, and we have a great team of employees who know what they’re doing,” Barney said. “Customers can trust that HydroChem is in good hands.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743003665534.jpeg" alt="Jeff and Megan Barney" />
 <figcaption>Jeff and Megan Barney</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSHydroChem Spray Services, a provider of residential, commercial and industrial spray applications in central Kansas, will transition to new ownership in 2025. Jeff and Megan Barney will take over the company from longtime owners Mike and Rhonda Snyder, marking the next chapter for the business.Founded in 1982, HydroChem Spray Services has provided lawn care, fertilization, weed control and bare ground control services for more than 40 years. Mike Snyder, who built and managed the business for more than four decades, will remain with the company as operations manager.“We were approached by several larger companies interested in buying HydroChem, but I wasn’t comfortable with that,” Snyder said. “We wanted the right person—someone who values what we’ve built and will continue to operate HydroChem with the same commitment to quality and service. Jeff was the right fit, and I’m excited to see what he brings to the company.”New ownership, same commitmentThe Barneys, who live in Stafford County near Hudson, bring agricultural roots to the business. Megan is a fourth-generation farmer, and Jeff has worked in grain and transportation for ADM Grain since earning a degree in agricultural economics from Kansas State University. The couple and their three children are active in Calvary Baptist Church, St. John-Hudson Rec, Stafford County Economic Development, FCA and 4-H.Jeff said the opportunity to own a business while remaining involved in the local community made HydroChem a natural fit.“HydroChem has been a successful, customer-focused company with a great reputation and a dedicated team,” Jeff Barney said. “We’re not here to make big changes—our focus is on maintaining the trusted service HydroChem has built over the years.”While there may be internal adjustments with new ownership, HydroChem’s services and customer programs will remain unchanged.&nbsp; The company may expand services in the future, but its core mission will stay the same: providing effective, science-backed treatments to maintain healthy outdoor spaces.“Mike’s knowledge will stay within the company, and we have a great team of employees who know what they’re doing,” Barney said. “Customers can trust that HydroChem is in good hands.”

HydroChem Spray transitions to new ownership 

On Wednesday, March 26, at approximately 10:48 p.m., officers with the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to Kwik Shop, 2337 Main in Great Bend, in reference to a threat. The victims reported they had been driving on 10th Street when a male subject in a white F-350 pickup pulled out a gun and brandished it at the victims. The Officers were also advised that the suspect threw a WD40 can at the victim's car, breaking the headlight and that he threw a beer bottle at the car, denting the door. 

The GBPD was assisted by the Hoisington Police Department, who located and detained the suspect in their city. 

Aiden Roach, age 18, was transported to the Barton County jail where he was booked on the requested charges of criminal threat and criminal damage to property, in lieu of bond.

If anyone has any information regarding this or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743167288574.jpeg" alt="Aiden Roach" />
 <figcaption>Aiden Roach</figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday, March 26, at approximately 10:48 p.m., officers with the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to Kwik Shop, 2337 Main in Great Bend, in reference to a threat. The victims reported they had been driving on 10th Street when a male subject in a white F-350 pickup pulled out a gun and brandished it at the victims. The Officers were also advised that the suspect threw a WD40 can at the victim's car, breaking the headlight and that he threw a beer bottle at the car, denting the door. The GBPD was assisted by the Hoisington Police Department, who located and detained the suspect in their city. Aiden Roach, age 18, was transported to the Barton County jail where he was booked on the requested charges of criminal threat and criminal damage to property, in lieu of bond.If anyone has any information regarding this or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

18-year-old arrested after brandishing gun in Great Bend

BOOKED: Aiden J. Roach on Barton County District Court case for criminal threat, bond is set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Zachary Ortiz on Barton County District Court warrant for contempt of court with no bond.

RELEASED: Aiden J. Roach on BCDC case for criminal threat, bonded by posting surety bond of $5,000 through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Bradley Ehster on Pawnee County District Court warrant for contempt of court, transferred to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.

RELEASED: Jazmin Rodriguez-Orozco on BCDC case for failure to appear by posting a $10,000 OR bond authorized by the Honorable Judge Burgess.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Aiden J. Roach on Barton County District Court case for criminal threat, bond is set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Zachary Ortiz on Barton County District Court warrant for contempt of court with no bond.RELEASED: Aiden J. Roach on BCDC case for criminal threat, bonded by posting surety bond of $5,000 through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Bradley Ehster on Pawnee County District Court warrant for contempt of court, transferred to Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.RELEASED: Jazmin Rodriguez-Orozco on BCDC case for failure to appear by posting a $10,000 OR bond authorized by the Honorable Judge Burgess.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/27)

Kansas wheat growers know that success starts with strong, resilient varieties. Few understand this better than Dr. Guorong Zhang, a wheat breeder at Kansas State University's Agricultural Research Center in Hays. In a recent episode of the&nbsp;Wheat’s On Your Mind&nbsp;podcast, Zhang discussed his breeding philosophy, career path, and the future of wheat development in Kansas.

Zhang’s journey began on a small farm in eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, where his family farmed rice and jute on less than an acre. After studying at Zhejiang Agriculture University, he spent time in barley research before coming to the U.S. for a Ph.D. in plant breeding at North Dakota State. That experience led him through research roles in soybean and biofuel crops, and eventually to K-State in 2012, where he took over the Hays breeding program.

“At the beginning, yield was my main focus,” Zhang said. “Farmers need high-yielding varieties to be profitable. Over time, I added more objectives—disease resistance, drought tolerance, and quality.”

His program has produced widely adopted varieties including Joe, KS Dallas, and KS Bill Snyder. Named in honor of the Hall of Fame football coach, the Snyder variety gained attention for its strong yield potential and broad adaptability. Zhang continues refining its drought tolerance as part of ongoing improvements.

Kansas weather has created some of Zhang’s toughest hurdles. In 2021, a hailstorm destroyed up to 80% of his trial plots in Hays, setting the program back significantly. These experiences have reinforced his focus on resilience in both environmental and disease-related stress.

“We’re getting better data, faster,” Zhang said, referencing the integration of double haploid breeding and drone phenotyping into his program. “The goal is to develop varieties that can handle both environmental stress and disease pressure.”

Field testing takes place across eight locations in western Kansas, including five farmer-managed sites. These trials give Zhang’s team insight into how lines perform under real-world growing conditions. He values the feedback received during field days and uses it to refine breeding goals for future releases.

“The western Kansas variety has strong resistance to Triticum mosaic virus and wheat streak mosaic virus, as well as improved drought tolerance,” Zhang said of two new releases expected this year. “The central Kansas variety has exceptional yield potential and strong disease resistance.”

His breeding program also includes collaborative work with universities like Colorado State to tackle new threats like wheat stem sawfly. Together, they evaluate new lines and share research data to speed up resistance development for high-risk regions.

Even as technology and challenges evolve, Zhang stays grounded in the basics: better yield, better disease resistance, and better quality. “We want Kansas farmers to have access to the best possible wheat varieties,” he said.

For more on Dr. Guorong Zhang’s breeding program and other updates, visit<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001l4bbV1h64b-enVuqnToJUpjq7O8K7EmiroxttKlvp5NimJui97lyDbja8XOKKb6MlmvcLn98gaeVKuZXKKrDJb-G2JqY-CHqDZBrQI-6-CzgYXxn1rA4eW1aGE_jEprE6Tm1ttxPx5mYuSdv0uS-YQ==&amp;c=UClXXFB_sojgXrJt7-YptgY8_GG-A7YcJCYVbtpvVqCri3oEaGpX1A==&amp;ch=7Q8R6ggyjFBMPBuTr5f_2ckBRXuyuQ12SGmkGWxMWHxNA-THwH5sKA==">&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001l4bbV1h64b-enVuqnToJUpjq7O8K7EmiroxttKlvp5NimJui97lyDbja8XOKKb6MlmvcLn98gaeVKuZXKKrDJb-G2JqY-CHqDZBrQI-6-CzgYXxn1rA4eW1aGE_jEprE6Tm1ttxPx5l9DTY8Rc6Dog==&amp;c=UClXXFB_sojgXrJt7-YptgY8_GG-A7YcJCYVbtpvVqCri3oEaGpX1A==&amp;ch=7Q8R6ggyjFBMPBuTr5f_2ckBRXuyuQ12SGmkGWxMWHxNA-THwH5sKA==">kswheat.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743106339401.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas wheat growers know that success starts with strong, resilient varieties. Few understand this better than Dr. Guorong Zhang, a wheat breeder at Kansas State University's Agricultural Research Center in Hays. In a recent episode of the&nbsp;Wheat’s On Your Mind&nbsp;podcast, Zhang discussed his breeding philosophy, career path, and the future of wheat development in Kansas.Zhang’s journey began on a small farm in eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, where his family farmed rice and jute on less than an acre. After studying at Zhejiang Agriculture University, he spent time in barley research before coming to the U.S. for a Ph.D. in plant breeding at North Dakota State. That experience led him through research roles in soybean and biofuel crops, and eventually to K-State in 2012, where he took over the Hays breeding program.“At the beginning, yield was my main focus,” Zhang said. “Farmers need high-yielding varieties to be profitable. Over time, I added more objectives—disease resistance, drought tolerance, and quality.”His program has produced widely adopted varieties including Joe, KS Dallas, and KS Bill Snyder. Named in honor of the Hall of Fame football coach, the Snyder variety gained attention for its strong yield potential and broad adaptability. Zhang continues refining its drought tolerance as part of ongoing improvements.Kansas weather has created some of Zhang’s toughest hurdles. In 2021, a hailstorm destroyed up to 80% of his trial plots in Hays, setting the program back significantly. These experiences have reinforced his focus on resilience in both environmental and disease-related stress.“We’re getting better data, faster,” Zhang said, referencing the integration of double haploid breeding and drone phenotyping into his program. “The goal is to develop varieties that can handle both environmental stress and disease pressure.”Field testing takes place across eight locations in western Kansas, including five farmer-managed sites. These trials give Zhang’s team insight into how lines perform under real-world growing conditions. He values the feedback received during field days and uses it to refine breeding goals for future releases.“The western Kansas variety has strong resistance to Triticum mosaic virus and wheat streak mosaic virus, as well as improved drought tolerance,” Zhang said of two new releases expected this year. “The central Kansas variety has exceptional yield potential and strong disease resistance.”His breeding program also includes collaborative work with universities like Colorado State to tackle new threats like wheat stem sawfly. Together, they evaluate new lines and share research data to speed up resistance development for high-risk regions.Even as technology and challenges evolve, Zhang stays grounded in the basics: better yield, better disease resistance, and better quality. “We want Kansas farmers to have access to the best possible wheat varieties,” he said.For more on Dr. Guorong Zhang’s breeding program and other updates, visit<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001l4bbV1h64b-enVuqnToJUpjq7O8K7EmiroxttKlvp5NimJui97lyDbja8XOKKb6MlmvcLn98gaeVKuZXKKrDJb-G2JqY-CHqDZBrQI-6-CzgYXxn1rA4eW1aGE_jEprE6Tm1ttxPx5mYuSdv0uS-YQ==&amp;c=UClXXFB_sojgXrJt7-YptgY8_GG-A7YcJCYVbtpvVqCri3oEaGpX1A==&amp;ch=7Q8R6ggyjFBMPBuTr5f_2ckBRXuyuQ12SGmkGWxMWHxNA-THwH5sKA==">&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001l4bbV1h64b-enVuqnToJUpjq7O8K7EmiroxttKlvp5NimJui97lyDbja8XOKKb6MlmvcLn98gaeVKuZXKKrDJb-G2JqY-CHqDZBrQI-6-CzgYXxn1rA4eW1aGE_jEprE6Tm1ttxPx5l9DTY8Rc6Dog==&amp;c=UClXXFB_sojgXrJt7-YptgY8_GG-A7YcJCYVbtpvVqCri3oEaGpX1A==&amp;ch=7Q8R6ggyjFBMPBuTr5f_2ckBRXuyuQ12SGmkGWxMWHxNA-THwH5sKA==">kswheat.com</a>.

Wheat Scoop: Breeding better wheat 

At the March USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Randy Beck
and several other teachers and staff were recognized for celebrating work anniversaries.
Beck was celebrating 30 years with the Great Bend school district, and at
Wednesday’s school board luncheon his plans to retire were announced. 

Beck, who
grew up in Hoisington, knew he wanted to be a ballplayer and went to Fort Hays
State University to play baseball.


“Fort Hays was a blast,” said Beck. “I loved it. I met a lot of great guys, and
we still keep in touch. Even to this day, I’m still playing some of my former
teammates that are coaching other teams.”


Among other coaching duties, Beck has served as the head baseball coach at Great
Bend High School since 2010. A few of Beck’s FHSU teammates whom are coaching or
used to coach include Rick Sabath at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Joel
Thaemert at De Soto, Neil Baker at Scott City and numerous assistant coaches.


“It’s a small world sometimes,” said Beck. “It’s so cool catching up with those
guys again and competing against each other. We always wanted to win but there
was always that respect win or lose.”


After graduating from FHSU, Beck began substitute teaching in the Barton County
area. Once the Great Bend Middle School P.E. teacher decided to retire, Beck
slid in and took the position. 

Beck began coaching baseball right away in the
mid-1990s with the C-team and junior varsity before starting with the varsity
team as the pitching coach under head coach Jeff Langrehr. Langrehr left for a
position at Gardner-Edgerton High School in 2009 and Beck stepped in to lead
the Panther baseball team.


“I learned from a lot of great guys,” said Beck. “Eventually, you form your own
philosophy as you go through. Coaching with Langrehr and Kurt Schaub helped
early on. You get to the point of ‘yeah, I can do this.’ I jumped in and here
we are now, several years later.”


With multiple trips to the State Tournament as an assistant and head coach,
most recently in 2023, Beck noted beating rival Hays High School at the Indians' field in the Regional Championship game in 2019 as one of his most memorable
moments.


“That moment is near or at the top of this list,” said Beck. “Winning that
Regional at Hays, that was a pretty sweet thing. First time winning the Western
Athletic Conference (WAC) title is up there. We were underdogs a lot of years
and enjoyed knocking off some of those teams.”


This spring will mark Beck’s final year coaching the Panthers after going 18-9
a year ago.


“I told the seniors, it’s you guys and me. We’re all going out. Let’s make the
most of this.”


Beck said he plans to take a few months off following the end of the school year
before he makes any decisions on his future.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743091358355.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School baseball coach Randy Beck is retiring at the end of the school year." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School baseball coach Randy Beck is retiring at the end of the school year.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt the March USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Randy Beck
and several other teachers and staff were recognized for celebrating work anniversaries.
Beck was celebrating 30 years with the Great Bend school district, and at
Wednesday’s school board luncheon his plans to retire were announced. Beck, who
grew up in Hoisington, knew he wanted to be a ballplayer and went to Fort Hays
State University to play baseball.
“Fort Hays was a blast,” said Beck. “I loved it. I met a lot of great guys, and
we still keep in touch. Even to this day, I’m still playing some of my former
teammates that are coaching other teams.”
Among other coaching duties, Beck has served as the head baseball coach at Great
Bend High School since 2010. A few of Beck’s FHSU teammates whom are coaching or
used to coach include Rick Sabath at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Joel
Thaemert at De Soto, Neil Baker at Scott City and numerous assistant coaches.
“It’s a small world sometimes,” said Beck. “It’s so cool catching up with those
guys again and competing against each other. We always wanted to win but there
was always that respect win or lose.”
After graduating from FHSU, Beck began substitute teaching in the Barton County
area. Once the Great Bend Middle School P.E. teacher decided to retire, Beck
slid in and took the position. Beck began coaching baseball right away in the
mid-1990s with the C-team and junior varsity before starting with the varsity
team as the pitching coach under head coach Jeff Langrehr. Langrehr left for a
position at Gardner-Edgerton High School in 2009 and Beck stepped in to lead
the Panther baseball team.
“I learned from a lot of great guys,” said Beck. “Eventually, you form your own
philosophy as you go through. Coaching with Langrehr and Kurt Schaub helped
early on. You get to the point of ‘yeah, I can do this.’ I jumped in and here
we are now, several years later.”
With multiple trips to the State Tournament as an assistant and head coach,
most recently in 2023, Beck noted beating rival Hays High School at the Indians' field in the Regional Championship game in 2019 as one of his most memorable
moments.
“That moment is near or at the top of this list,” said Beck. “Winning that
Regional at Hays, that was a pretty sweet thing. First time winning the Western
Athletic Conference (WAC) title is up there. We were underdogs a lot of years
and enjoyed knocking off some of those teams.”
This spring will mark Beck’s final year coaching the Panthers after going 18-9
a year ago.
“I told the seniors, it’s you guys and me. We’re all going out. Let’s make the
most of this.”
Beck said he plans to take a few months off following the end of the school year
before he makes any decisions on his future.
“I’ll probably find a part-time job, otherwise I might drive my wife crazy and
drive myself crazy. Especially coming off the baseball season where you’re
always busy. It’s hard to just sit down and relax.”
Beck will have earned his chance to relax as he retires as the P.E. instructor at Great Bend High School.
“I grew up as a baseball player. I loved sports. I loved working with kids. This
was a good fit more me.”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Local