On Sunday, Jan. 26, at approximately 3:35 p.m., officers with the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to an address in the 3300 block of Forest Avenue in reference to a domestic disturbance. While on scene, officers contacted an adult female and three juveniles. 

Officers were advised that the adult female and John Feemster, age 34,&nbsp; had been arguing. Officers were advised that during the argument, the adult female was battered by Feemster and that he had obtained a weapon and forced all of the subjects into a bedroom. 

Feemster was contacted outside of the residence and was arrested. He was transported to the Barton County jail and booked for the charges of kidnapping, aggravated assault and endangering a child, in lieu of bond. 

This case is still under investigation. If you have any information regarding this or any other case, you are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stopper at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737994970093.jpeg" alt="John Feemster" />
 <figcaption>John Feemster</figcaption>
 </figure>On Sunday, Jan. 26, at approximately 3:35 p.m., officers with the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to an address in the 3300 block of Forest Avenue in reference to a domestic disturbance. While on scene, officers contacted an adult female and three juveniles. Officers were advised that the adult female and John Feemster, age 34,&nbsp; had been arguing. Officers were advised that during the argument, the adult female was battered by Feemster and that he had obtained a weapon and forced all of the subjects into a bedroom. Feemster was contacted outside of the residence and was arrested. He was transported to the Barton County jail and booked for the charges of kidnapping, aggravated assault and endangering a child, in lieu of bond. This case is still under investigation. If you have any information regarding this or any other case, you are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stopper at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Man charged with kidnapping on Forest Ave. in Great Bend

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Each year in America, more than 11,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than 4,000 women will die from the disease. That does not have to be the case. January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Lindsey Ensley, clinical nurse supervisor at the Barton County Health Department, said screenings can catch the cancer early.

"Cervical cancer is one that can be detected by a pap smear and it's really important to have those regular screenings," she said. "Cervical cancer, if caught early, can be very treatable. It's one of the most treatable cancers that can be had."

The Barton County Health Department offers a family planning program for reproductive health that includes Well Woman exams, pap smears, breast exams, and birth control. Women are recommended to get a pap smear at least every three years beginning at the age of 21. The health department also offers the HPV vaccine for males and females, who can get the vaccine as early as age nine.

"The main cause of cervical cancer is a virus that's called human papillomavirus virus, or HPV," Ensley said. "It's sexually transmitted and it can cause some abnormal cells on the cervix, which then can lead to cancer, so that screening is super important."

Screenings can be expensive. The health department accepts insurance for screenings and also offers the Early Detection Works program through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Women with no insurance who meet income standards may qualify for free screenings. Call (877)-277-1368 to see if you qualify for free screenings, or call the Barton County Health Department at (620) 793-1902 for more information about its family planning program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737642653260.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostEach year in America, more than 11,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than 4,000 women will die from the disease. That does not have to be the case. January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Lindsey Ensley, clinical nurse supervisor at the Barton County Health Department, said screenings can catch the cancer early."Cervical cancer is one that can be detected by a pap smear and it's really important to have those regular screenings," she said. "Cervical cancer, if caught early, can be very treatable. It's one of the most treatable cancers that can be had."The Barton County Health Department offers a family planning program for reproductive health that includes Well Woman exams, pap smears, breast exams, and birth control. Women are recommended to get a pap smear at least every three years beginning at the age of 21. The health department also offers the HPV vaccine for males and females, who can get the vaccine as early as age nine."The main cause of cervical cancer is a virus that's called human papillomavirus virus, or HPV," Ensley said. "It's sexually transmitted and it can cause some abnormal cells on the cervix, which then can lead to cancer, so that screening is super important."Screenings can be expensive. The health department accepts insurance for screenings and also offers the Early Detection Works program through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Women with no insurance who meet income standards may qualify for free screenings. Call (877)-277-1368 to see if you qualify for free screenings, or call the Barton County Health Department at (620) 793-1902 for more information about its family planning program.

Cervical cancer awareness: Barton Co. Health Dept. offers array of screenings

KIOWA COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol investigating a fatal&nbsp; car crash during a weekend pursuit have identified the victim who died as Jerry Wayne Thompson.

Thompson and the car were being sought as part of a homicide investigation in Anderson County, according to a media release from the KHP.

Just after 9p.m. Saturday, troopers saw the car traveling eastbound on U.S. 54 west of Greensburg. A troopers began to conduct a traffic stop, the car pulled over to the shoulder and stopped. After the trooper made verbal contact with Thompson, he fled and a pursuit ensued.

The Kiowa County Sheriff's office successfully deployed stop sticks on the fleeing vehicle approximately one mile west of Greensburg. The car traveled off the road into the south ditch, struck a field entrance, went airborne and rolled. Thompson was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the car.&nbsp; He was transported to a local hospital and pronounced deceased.&nbsp; &nbsp;Investigators recovered a loaded firearm from the crash scene.

The KHP Critical Accident Response Team responded to the scene and is investigating.&nbsp; The homicide is under investigation in Anderson County.

KIOWA COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol investigating a fatal&nbsp; car crash during a weekend pursuit have identified the victim who died as Jerry Wayne Thompson.Thompson and the car were being sought as part of a homicide investigation in Anderson County, according to a media release from the KHP.Just after 9p.m. Saturday, troopers saw the car traveling eastbound on U.S. 54 west of Greensburg. A troopers began to conduct a traffic stop, the car pulled over to the shoulder and stopped. After the trooper made verbal contact with Thompson, he fled and a pursuit ensued.The Kiowa County Sheriff's office successfully deployed stop sticks on the fleeing vehicle approximately one mile west of Greensburg. The car traveled off the road into the south ditch, struck a field entrance, went airborne and rolled. Thompson was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the car.&nbsp; He was transported to a local hospital and pronounced deceased.&nbsp; &nbsp;Investigators recovered a loaded firearm from the crash scene.The KHP Critical Accident Response Team responded to the scene and is investigating.&nbsp; The homicide is under investigation in Anderson County.

KHP: Victim in fatal pursuit, crash was wanted in homicide investigation

1/24 BOOKED: Alexa L. Rodarmel on two Stafford County District Court warrants for Theft, total bond set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: David Lomas on Barton County District Court case for Felony Flee and Elude, Reckless Driving, Driving While Suspended, Failure to Stop at Stop Sign, Basic Speed, and Failure to Use Turn Signal, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jeffrey D. Raybern on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Shayla Richmeier on McPherson County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Kelly Polzin on KDOC hold on Barton County District Court case, no bond set.

BOOKED: Dustin L. Ellis on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Juan D. Mendez-Rangel on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $686 cash only.

RELEASED: Christopher Delauder on Barton County District Court case for Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Operating a Vehicle without a License, on 48-hour bond.

RELEASED: Shayla Richmeier on McPherson County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond.

RELEASED: Nathan Hillegeist on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $40,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

1/25 BOOKED: Shawn Cory on Barton County District Court case for Felony Flee and Elude, Fail to Stop at Stop Sign, Failure to Signal, and Speeding, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Emiliano Rodriguez on Barton County District Court case for DUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Michael S. Vanaman on Barton County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO and Improper Notice of Turn, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Peter Zamarripa on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

BOOKED: Jesus E. Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Shawn Cory on Barton County District Court case for Felony Flee and Elude, Fail to Stop at Stop Sign, Failure to Signal, and Speeding, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Juan C. Zamarripa-Torres to ICE.

1/26 BOOKED: Kristopher Clone on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: John Feemster on Barton County District Court case for Kidnapping, Aggravated Assault, and Domestic Battery, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Jeffrey D. Raybern on Hoisington Municipal Court, after time served.

RELEASED: Dustin L. Ellis on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242247715.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>1/24 BOOKED: Alexa L. Rodarmel on two Stafford County District Court warrants for Theft, total bond set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: David Lomas on Barton County District Court case for Felony Flee and Elude, Reckless Driving, Driving While Suspended, Failure to Stop at Stop Sign, Basic Speed, and Failure to Use Turn Signal, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jeffrey D. Raybern on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Shayla Richmeier on McPherson County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Kelly Polzin on KDOC hold on Barton County District Court case, no bond set.BOOKED: Dustin L. Ellis on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Juan D. Mendez-Rangel on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $686 cash only.RELEASED: Christopher Delauder on Barton County District Court case for Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Operating a Vehicle without a License, on 48-hour bond.RELEASED: Shayla Richmeier on McPherson County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond.RELEASED: Nathan Hillegeist on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $40,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.1/25 BOOKED: Shawn Cory on Barton County District Court case for Felony Flee and Elude, Fail to Stop at Stop Sign, Failure to Signal, and Speeding, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Emiliano Rodriguez on Barton County District Court case for DUI, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Michael S. Vanaman on Barton County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO and Improper Notice of Turn, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Peter Zamarripa on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.BOOKED: Jesus E. Balderrama on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.RELEASED: Shawn Cory on Barton County District Court case for Felony Flee and Elude, Fail to Stop at Stop Sign, Failure to Signal, and Speeding, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Juan C. Zamarripa-Torres to ICE.1/26 BOOKED: Kristopher Clone on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: John Feemster on Barton County District Court case for Kidnapping, Aggravated Assault, and Domestic Battery, bond set at $100,000 C/S.RELEASED: Jeffrey D. Raybern on Hoisington Municipal Court, after time served.RELEASED: Dustin L. Ellis on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (1/24 - 1/26)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Village Cinema on west 10th Street in Great Bend showed its
last movie in April 2013. Less than two months later, construction finished
on a new movie theater at the corner of Lakin Avenue and Kansas Avenue. 


DC Real Estate Holdings is the owner of Golden Belt Cinema 6. Great Bend City
Administrator Logan Burns said the industrial revenue bonds, originally issued
by the City of Great Bend with an initial amount of $2.5 million, reached their
final maturity on Dec. 31, 2023.


"The tenant now has the option to purchase the property from the City of Great Bend," said Burns. "Sarah Steele with Gilmore &amp; Bell, our bond counsel, has drafted a resolution authorizing the sale and conveyance of the property located at 1222 Kansas to DC Real Estate Holdings, LLC."

Chad Somers with DC Real Estate Holdings wrote to the city that DC Real Estate
would like to exercise their option to purchase the project. The city council
approved the resolution to execute a special warranty deed, bill of sale and
release of the lease.


Prior to completion of the 17,000-square-foot theater with six screens, the
council approved the creation of a Community Improvement District (CID). The
CID imposes a two-cent sales tax on all of the movie theater’s retail sales.
The sales tax remains in effect for 22 years after the opening date in May
2013.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584549398361.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostVillage Cinema on west 10th Street in Great Bend showed its
last movie in April 2013. Less than two months later, construction finished
on a new movie theater at the corner of Lakin Avenue and Kansas Avenue. 
DC Real Estate Holdings is the owner of Golden Belt Cinema 6. Great Bend City
Administrator Logan Burns said the industrial revenue bonds, originally issued
by the City of Great Bend with an initial amount of $2.5 million, reached their
final maturity on Dec. 31, 2023.
"The tenant now has the option to purchase the property from the City of Great Bend," said Burns. "Sarah Steele with Gilmore &amp; Bell, our bond counsel, has drafted a resolution authorizing the sale and conveyance of the property located at 1222 Kansas to DC Real Estate Holdings, LLC."Chad Somers with DC Real Estate Holdings wrote to the city that DC Real Estate
would like to exercise their option to purchase the project. The city council
approved the resolution to execute a special warranty deed, bill of sale and
release of the lease.
Prior to completion of the 17,000-square-foot theater with six screens, the
council approved the creation of a Community Improvement District (CID). The
CID imposes a two-cent sales tax on all of the movie theater’s retail sales.
The sales tax remains in effect for 22 years after the opening date in May
2013.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Tenant purchases property for Great Bend movie theater

More than 3 million Dreamers, more than 3 million stories. In June 2012, the Secretary of Homeland Security announced that certain people who came to the United States as children and meet several guidelines may request consideration of deferred action for a period of two years, subject to renewal. Those who qualified for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) became known as Dreamers. 

In 2017, the first Donald Trump administration attempted to rescind DACA. Litigation was not finalized before the Joe Biden administration took office in 2021 and restored former DACA protections. In 2025, the Trump administration is again making changes to protections for non-United States citizens.

Many Great Bend residents are now feeling the impacts of the decisions being made in Washington. Carmen Garcia (as the woman wishes to remain anonymous, a pseudonym will be used) has lived in Great Bend since her parents illegally moved to the United States when Garcia was just four years old.

"I've always known it was different," she said. "From a very young age, I think it was just engraved into me that, because I was different, I had to act a certain way. I've carried that through adolescence and into adulthood now."

As non-residents, if her parents drove her to school, they did so without a license. They were unable to get health insurance. They were unable to apply for any other federal benefits afforded to low-income earners in the United States.

Garcia felt the differences amplified at various times in her life, including when she became old enough to drive without a license. She was unable to work at any job requiring a valid social security number and often resorted to jobs like babysitting.

"When I was applying for colleges, that was definitely one of the biggest challenges I remember," she said. "While a lot of other people were applying for FAFSA and different types of grants, that was never an option for me."

Still, Garcia was able to attend a 4-year college. She was still in college when the original DACA law was passed in 2012. Even then, it took courage to approach a government office and admit her non-resident status. With help from an attorney, she began the arduous task of applying for legal status. She contacted her former schools, including her elementary school, for attendance records and grade reports.

"You have to prove that you were here and that you stayed here," she said, "so pretty much from when I was five until I was in my 20s, I had to prove that every year I was here and never left."

Garcia was recently given 5-year DACA protection but most Dreamers must apply for legal status every two years, as did Garcia before. Applicants must prove they have not left the country, have a clean criminal record, show their income and expenditures, and prove they are in school or employed. Each time, application fees and attorney costs can easily exceed $1,000. 

"On top of the cost thing, it does become a time thing," Garcia said. "They just tell you when to show up for your appointment. If you can't make it work, you have to go through this whole application process again and tell them why you need a new appointment. While the cost is a big factor, so is time."

Garcia graduated college and ultimately moved back to Great Bend where is a wife and mother and has a well-paying job. She pays income taxes just like U.S. citizens but she cannot vote. Before marriage, she could not get a bank loan.

"Even if you have great credit, banks are very hesitant to give you any type of loan," she said. "They look at your status and think, well, in two years you might not even be here so why would we give you a loan for several years?"

Despite living in the United States for decades and being married to a U.S. citizen with children who are U.S. citizens, Garcia still has not met the residency requirements under DACA to earn her own citizenship. She must get permission to leave the country and has been denied, and there's always the weight of not being a protected citizen.

"I think the hardest part for me is, just from a young age, we're told to stay under the radar, don't get in trouble, and don't have an opinion," Garcia said. "That's a very hard thing, I think, for me. I would like to think I'm a good, contributing citizen, especially to the community. When you see a large section of the community saying hurtful things, you can't step up and defend yourself. It's almost like you're crucified for that.

"It's also knowing that while I'm married to a U.S. citizen and my children are U.S. citizens, nothing is granted. Until I have a residency card or full-on citizenship, I think there's just always that fear.

As difficult as being a Dreamer can be, Garcia is at least afforded many of the same advantages as American citizens while living in the United States. Luis Gomez (another pseudonym) has little to no protection. When his parents felt life in Mexico was too dangerous, they moved the family to the United States. 

"We were seeking a safer life full of opportunities, so my parents took a leap of faith and moved to the United States," Gomez said. "My family came to the United States with only $200. But luckily, we had help from others and were able to get on our feet despite coming here with basically nothing."

As a child, Gomez had to learn a new language and adapt to the new culture and lifestyle to fit in. A Great Bend High School graduate, he is now a college student but it has not been an easy road.

"We always have had some sort of struggle going on," he said. "But the struggle that has affected us the most is financial struggles. In today’s world, it is very hard to find jobs that are willing to take illegal immigrants, therefore making it hard for my family to consistently provide us with stuff we need."

Like Garcia, Gomez has to pay all of his college tuition and fees out of pocket, which is difficult given the inability to find a good job.  

"It takes a lot of hard work and countless hours to stay here, but my parents are willing to put everything on the line to give me a better life than what they had in Mexico. My father always told me we were different and have to be twice as cautious because it feels like someone or something is always out to get us."

Gomez remains optimistic about his situation. He knows certain employers give jobs to undocumented workers but also knows those are rare and risky. 

Because of timing issues, Gomez does not qualify to be a Dreamer. His options of becoming a legal resident are limited and include the naturalization process or the passage of new legislation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737758478366.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMore than 3 million Dreamers, more than 3 million stories. In June 2012, the Secretary of Homeland Security announced that certain people who came to the United States as children and meet several guidelines may request consideration of deferred action for a period of two years, subject to renewal. Those who qualified for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) became known as Dreamers. In 2017, the first Donald Trump administration attempted to rescind DACA. Litigation was not finalized before the Joe Biden administration took office in 2021 and restored former DACA protections. In 2025, the Trump administration is again making changes to protections for non-United States citizens.Many Great Bend residents are now feeling the impacts of the decisions being made in Washington. Carmen Garcia (as the woman wishes to remain anonymous, a pseudonym will be used) has lived in Great Bend since her parents illegally moved to the United States when Garcia was just four years old."I've always known it was different," she said. "From a very young age, I think it was just engraved into me that, because I was different, I had to act a certain way. I've carried that through adolescence and into adulthood now."As non-residents, if her parents drove her to school, they did so without a license. They were unable to get health insurance. They were unable to apply for any other federal benefits afforded to low-income earners in the United States.Garcia felt the differences amplified at various times in her life, including when she became old enough to drive without a license. She was unable to work at any job requiring a valid social security number and often resorted to jobs like babysitting."When I was applying for colleges, that was definitely one of the biggest challenges I remember," she said. "While a lot of other people were applying for FAFSA and different types of grants, that was never an option for me."Still, Garcia was able to attend a 4-year college. She was still in college when the original DACA law was passed in 2012. Even then, it took courage to approach a government office and admit her non-resident status. With help from an attorney, she began the arduous task of applying for legal status. She contacted her former schools, including her elementary school, for attendance records and grade reports."You have to prove that you were here and that you stayed here," she said, "so pretty much from when I was five until I was in my 20s, I had to prove that every year I was here and never left."Garcia was recently given 5-year DACA protection but most Dreamers must apply for legal status every two years, as did Garcia before. Applicants must prove they have not left the country, have a clean criminal record, show their income and expenditures, and prove they are in school or employed. Each time, application fees and attorney costs can easily exceed $1,000. "On top of the cost thing, it does become a time thing," Garcia said. "They just tell you when to show up for your appointment. If you can't make it work, you have to go through this whole application process again and tell them why you need a new appointment. While the cost is a big factor, so is time."Garcia graduated college and ultimately moved back to Great Bend where is a wife and mother and has a well-paying job. She pays income taxes just like U.S. citizens but she cannot vote. Before marriage, she could not get a bank loan."Even if you have great credit, banks are very hesitant to give you any type of loan," she said. "They look at your status and think, well, in two years you might not even be here so why would we give you a loan for several years?"Despite living in the United States for decades and being married to a U.S. citizen with children who are U.S. citizens, Garcia still has not met the residency requirements under DACA to earn her own citizenship. She must get permission to leave the country and has been denied, and there's always the weight of not being a protected citizen."I think the hardest part for me is, just from a young age, we're told to stay under the radar, don't get in trouble, and don't have an opinion," Garcia said. "That's a very hard thing, I think, for me. I would like to think I'm a good, contributing citizen, especially to the community. When you see a large section of the community saying hurtful things, you can't step up and defend yourself. It's almost like you're crucified for that."It's also knowing that while I'm married to a U.S. citizen and my children are U.S. citizens, nothing is granted. Until I have a residency card or full-on citizenship, I think there's just always that fear.As difficult as being a Dreamer can be, Garcia is at least afforded many of the same advantages as American citizens while living in the United States. Luis Gomez (another pseudonym) has little to no protection. When his parents felt life in Mexico was too dangerous, they moved the family to the United States. "We were seeking a safer life full of opportunities, so my parents took a leap of faith and moved to the United States," Gomez said. "My family came to the United States with only $200. But luckily, we had help from others and were able to get on our feet despite coming here with basically nothing."As a child, Gomez had to learn a new language and adapt to the new culture and lifestyle to fit in. A Great Bend High School graduate, he is now a college student but it has not been an easy road."We always have had some sort of struggle going on," he said. "But the struggle that has affected us the most is financial struggles. In today’s world, it is very hard to find jobs that are willing to take illegal immigrants, therefore making it hard for my family to consistently provide us with stuff we need."Like Garcia, Gomez has to pay all of his college tuition and fees out of pocket, which is difficult given the inability to find a good job. "It takes a lot of hard work and countless hours to stay here, but my parents are willing to put everything on the line to give me a better life than what they had in Mexico. My father always told me we were different and have to be twice as cautious because it feels like someone or something is always out to get us."Gomez remains optimistic about his situation. He knows certain employers give jobs to undocumented workers but also knows those are rare and risky. Because of timing issues, Gomez does not qualify to be a Dreamer. His options of becoming a legal resident are limited and include the naturalization process or the passage of new legislation.

Story of a Dreamer: Great Bend woman shares experience of staying in the U.S.

Today Sunny, with a high near 48. West-southwest wind 8 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 23. Southwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming west-northwest after midnight.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 51. West-northwest wind 6 to 8 mph.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26. West-southwest wind around 6 mph becoming northwest after midnight.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 48. North-northwest wind around 7 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night A 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30.

Thursday Rain likely, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 45. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Thursday Night Rain likely, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday A 40 percent chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 45.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 51.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 30.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 59.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 48. West-southwest wind 8 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 23. Southwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming west-northwest after midnight.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 51. West-northwest wind 6 to 8 mph.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26. West-southwest wind around 6 mph becoming northwest after midnight.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 48. North-northwest wind around 7 mph becoming east in the afternoon.Wednesday Night A 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30.Thursday Rain likely, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 45. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Thursday Night Rain likely, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Friday A 40 percent chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 45.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 51.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 30.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 59.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.6% in December. This is an increase from 3.5% in November and an increase from 2.6% in December 2023,&nbsp;according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Labor.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,200 from November. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 500 over the month, while government increased by 700.

The unemployment rate in Barton County remains steady at 3.3 percent. The rate in Russell County is up from 3.4 percent in November to 5.3 percent in December. Ellsworth County is reporting 6.1 percent in December.

“Kansas ended the year with little change in the labor market,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen. “Total nonfarm jobs increased by 1,200 over the month while the unemployment rate edged up to 3.6%.”

Since December 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 18,400. This change is due to an increase of 13,300 private sector jobs and an increase of 5,100 government jobs. 

Complete Kansas labor market information for December is available here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737731421687.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.6% in December. This is an increase from 3.5% in November and an increase from 2.6% in December 2023,&nbsp;according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Labor.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,200 from November. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 500 over the month, while government increased by 700.The unemployment rate in Barton County remains steady at 3.3 percent. The rate in Russell County is up from 3.4 percent in November to 5.3 percent in December. Ellsworth County is reporting 6.1 percent in December.“Kansas ended the year with little change in the labor market,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen. “Total nonfarm jobs increased by 1,200 over the month while the unemployment rate edged up to 3.6%.”Since December 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 18,400. This change is due to an increase of 13,300 private sector jobs and an increase of 5,100 government jobs. Complete Kansas labor market information for December is available here.

Jobless rate steady in Barton County, up in Russell County

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is scheduling Chamber Coffees for late&nbsp;May 2025&nbsp;already.

Request a 2025 date by clicking&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://click-116427.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=789687&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1828374&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fform%2Fview%2F27926&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=cb8ab8f2a6c34b4e942b5ecbd20e18409be6c8191ad9b366f413676320ac54fd">here</a>&nbsp;or contact Julie Mazouch, Member Success Manager at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:%20jmazouch@greatbend.org?subject=2025%20Chamber%20Coffee">jmazouch@greatbend.org</a>&nbsp;or 620-792-2401.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737735169123.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is scheduling Chamber Coffees for late&nbsp;May 2025&nbsp;already.Request a 2025 date by clicking&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://click-116427.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=789687&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1828374&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fform%2Fview%2F27926&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=cb8ab8f2a6c34b4e942b5ecbd20e18409be6c8191ad9b366f413676320ac54fd">here</a>&nbsp;or contact Julie Mazouch, Member Success Manager at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:%20jmazouch@greatbend.org?subject=2025%20Chamber%20Coffee">jmazouch@greatbend.org</a>&nbsp;or 620-792-2401.

Schedule your 2025 Great Bend Chamber Coffee now

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

GARDEN CITY — Kansas mental health experts want rural residents to be aware of available resources as they work to enhance mental health services across more of the state.

NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn said she and her staff are preparing for a rural mental health summit on April 9 in Kiowa, a community of about 900 people in south-central Kansas, to bring the conversation about mental health care to more rural and frontier areas.

The summit is a continuation of the nonprofit agency’s Standing in the Gap series that began&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/28/kansas-mental-health-experts-discuss-gaps-in-services-for-farmers-and-ranchers-at-inaugural-summit/">in 2023 in Dodge City</a>. NAMI Kansas southwest steering committee chairwoman Itzel Moya said the initial event and four subsequent sessions have been “a great way for rural and frontier communities to bring light to mental health topics and resources.”

At that initial event, mental health experts and agricultural producers shared stories about their own mental health struggles and vocalized a need for more widespread mental health care services, particularly in the western half of the state.

The April 9 event is set to take place at the Kiowa Community Building from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://namikansas.org/get-involved/nami-kansas-events/sitg/" target="_blank">Registration is required</a>. The event will focus on how local faith leaders and church members can “stand in the gap” as links to mental health care for their communities, Vaughn said.

“Standing in the Gap presentations help to equip our local community leaders and members to start the conversation, learn about mental health conditions and statistical information, access its local resources, and seek solutions and opportunities to serve each other well,” Vaughn said.

Religious officials are often the first person to respond to a mental health crisis because of the lack of mental health care providers across the state, and because of preexisting trusting relationships formed within the community. At another Standing in the Gap event in November in Plainville, NAMI Kansas volunteer Tara Gwynn said Kansas has an average of one mental health care provider for every 450 residents.

In areas like Plainville, which is in Rooks County in north-central Kansas, Gwynn said the figure is closer to one provider per 4,000 people. But smaller communities often have multiple churches, all of which can have mental health information and support pamphlets available in view of their congregations.

Officials with the Kansas Department of Agriculture also are attempting to close the mental health care gap by partnering with Kansas Corn to offer the Kansas Ag Stress program. Created in 2019, the program website features&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/ag-aware-providers-in-kansas" target="_blank">a list of mental health care providers</a>&nbsp;who offer telehealth services or specialize in mental health needs related to the ag industry.

Additionally, Kansas Farm Bureau has the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kfb.org/Article/Mental-Health-Resources" target="_blank">Rural Minds Matter</a>&nbsp;program that includes training materials, links to mental health support guides, and the Advocate of the Year awards that were created in 2024. The inaugural Advocate of the Year award winner was Fort Hays State University professor and therapist Will Stutterheim. The first Young Advocate of the Year award recipient was Destiny Johnson, a pre-K through 12th-grade social worker for Stafford Unified School District 349.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate agricultural producers have a higher suicide rate than other professions. The CDC report, published in 2020 with data sourced in 2016, found that men who worked in agriculture were at a greater risk, with a ratio of 43 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people. Statewide, the suicide rate for men is 19 per 100,000 people. According to data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, more than 500 Kansans died by suicide in 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737927645951.png" alt=" NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn speaks at the inaugural Standing in the Gap summit in August 2023 in Dodge City. Vaughn and her staff are preparing for the next rural mental health summit, slated for April 9 in Kiowa. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector.)" />
 <figcaption> NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn speaks at the inaugural Standing in the Gap summit in August 2023 in Dodge City. Vaughn and her staff are preparing for the next rural mental health summit, slated for April 9 in Kiowa. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector.)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>GARDEN CITY — Kansas mental health experts want rural residents to be aware of available resources as they work to enhance mental health services across more of the state.NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn said she and her staff are preparing for a rural mental health summit on April 9 in Kiowa, a community of about 900 people in south-central Kansas, to bring the conversation about mental health care to more rural and frontier areas.The summit is a continuation of the nonprofit agency’s Standing in the Gap series that began&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/28/kansas-mental-health-experts-discuss-gaps-in-services-for-farmers-and-ranchers-at-inaugural-summit/">in 2023 in Dodge City</a>. NAMI Kansas southwest steering committee chairwoman Itzel Moya said the initial event and four subsequent sessions have been “a great way for rural and frontier communities to bring light to mental health topics and resources.”At that initial event, mental health experts and agricultural producers shared stories about their own mental health struggles and vocalized a need for more widespread mental health care services, particularly in the western half of the state.The April 9 event is set to take place at the Kiowa Community Building from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://namikansas.org/get-involved/nami-kansas-events/sitg/" target="_blank">Registration is required</a>. The event will focus on how local faith leaders and church members can “stand in the gap” as links to mental health care for their communities, Vaughn said.“Standing in the Gap presentations help to equip our local community leaders and members to start the conversation, learn about mental health conditions and statistical information, access its local resources, and seek solutions and opportunities to serve each other well,” Vaughn said.Religious officials are often the first person to respond to a mental health crisis because of the lack of mental health care providers across the state, and because of preexisting trusting relationships formed within the community. At another Standing in the Gap event in November in Plainville, NAMI Kansas volunteer Tara Gwynn said Kansas has an average of one mental health care provider for every 450 residents.In areas like Plainville, which is in Rooks County in north-central Kansas, Gwynn said the figure is closer to one provider per 4,000 people. But smaller communities often have multiple churches, all of which can have mental health information and support pamphlets available in view of their congregations.Officials with the Kansas Department of Agriculture also are attempting to close the mental health care gap by partnering with Kansas Corn to offer the Kansas Ag Stress program. Created in 2019, the program website features&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/ag-aware-providers-in-kansas" target="_blank">a list of mental health care providers</a>&nbsp;who offer telehealth services or specialize in mental health needs related to the ag industry.Additionally, Kansas Farm Bureau has the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kfb.org/Article/Mental-Health-Resources" target="_blank">Rural Minds Matter</a>&nbsp;program that includes training materials, links to mental health support guides, and the Advocate of the Year awards that were created in 2024. The inaugural Advocate of the Year award winner was Fort Hays State University professor and therapist Will Stutterheim. The first Young Advocate of the Year award recipient was Destiny Johnson, a pre-K through 12th-grade social worker for Stafford Unified School District 349.Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate agricultural producers have a higher suicide rate than other professions. The CDC report, published in 2020 with data sourced in 2016, found that men who worked in agriculture were at a greater risk, with a ratio of 43 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people. Statewide, the suicide rate for men is 19 per 100,000 people. According to data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, more than 500 Kansans died by suicide in 2023.

Kansas mental health professionals prepare listening session while working to enhance services

Hear this month's Focus on Stafford County show with Eagle Media's Becca Fletcher and Stafford County Economic Development Director Ryan Russell that aired Jan. 23, 2025.

The Focus on Stafford County program airs the fourth Thursday of the month at 11:30 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 Focus on Stafford County show with Eagle Media's Becca Fletcher and Stafford County Economic Development Director Ryan Russell that aired Jan. 23, 2025.<div><iframe title="Focus on Stafford County show" 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=79czg-17c662c-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 Focus on Stafford County program airs the fourth Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Focus on Stafford County show

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award, a program recognizing the outstanding teaching skills of new educators.

The 32 educators chosen for this prestigious award will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference on Feb. 21, in Topeka.

The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.

Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each of the state’s four regions that correspond to the state’s U.S. congressional districts.

Recipients of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.

The 2025 Kansas Horizon Award recipients are as follows:

Dalton Kraus, Victoria Elementary School, Victoria USD 432

Emma Lidstrom, Coronado Elementary School, Salina USD 305

Anglie Linden, Lyons Middle School, Lyons USD 405

Jessyka Mikkelson, Southeast of Saline Elementary School, Southeast of Saline USD 306

Rylie Sanders, Buhler High School, Buhler USD 313

Sarah Schlottman, Abilene High School, Abilene USD 435

Kiley Seidl, Haven Grade School, Haven USD 312

Brayden Smith, Hays High School, Hays USD 489

Denise Acosta, Spring Valley Elementary School, Geary County USD 475

Jasmine Colle, Hillsboro Middle/High School, Durham-Hillsboro-Lehigh USD 410

Jason Dester, Topeka West High School, Topeka USD 501

Brennen Feeback, Fort Scott High School, Fort Scott USD 234

Makayla Gray, Burlington Elementary School, Burlington USD 244

Michael Lager, Junction City High School, Geary County USD 475

Alyssa Larson, Gray Hawk Elementary School, Basehor-Linwood USD 458

Trenton Lowry, North Lawn Elementary School, Neodesha USD 461

Sarah Alas, Delaware Ridge Elementary School, Bonner Springs USD 204

Ryleigh Diskin, Ray Marsh Elementary School, Shawnee Mission USD 512

Marie Jones, Scarborough Elementary School, Olathe USD 233

Brock LaPlante, Spring Hill High School, Spring Hill USD 230

Tara Mulcahy, Broadmoor Elementary School, Louisburg USD 416

Steve Murray, Olathe West High School, Olathe USD 233

Allaire Pigg, Turner High School, Turner USD 202

Eric Reece, Central Heights Middle School, Central Heights USD 288

Viridiana Arias, Maize South High School, Maize USD 266

Lexie Bullinger, Robert M. Martin Elementary School, Andover USD 385

Joshua Isaacs, West Elementary School, Valley Center USD 262

Tyler Kohlman, Amelia Earhart Elementary School, Goddard USD 265

Matt Miller, Truesdell Middle School, Wichita USD 259

Anna Patton, Augusta Middle School, Augusta USD 402

Hannah Reynolds, Eisenhower High School, Goddard USD 265

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award, a program recognizing the outstanding teaching skills of new educators.The 32 educators chosen for this prestigious award will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference on Feb. 21, in Topeka.The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each of the state’s four regions that correspond to the state’s U.S. congressional districts.Recipients of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.The 2025 Kansas Horizon Award recipients are as follows:Region 1Dalton Kraus, Victoria Elementary School, Victoria USD 432Emma Lidstrom, Coronado Elementary School, Salina USD 305Anglie Linden, Lyons Middle School, Lyons USD 405Jessyka Mikkelson, Southeast of Saline Elementary School, Southeast of Saline USD 306Rylie Sanders, Buhler High School, Buhler USD 313Sarah Schlottman, Abilene High School, Abilene USD 435Kiley Seidl, Haven Grade School, Haven USD 312Brayden Smith, Hays High School, Hays USD 489Region 2Denise Acosta, Spring Valley Elementary School, Geary County USD 475Jasmine Colle, Hillsboro Middle/High School, Durham-Hillsboro-Lehigh USD 410Jason Dester, Topeka West High School, Topeka USD 501Brennen Feeback, Fort Scott High School, Fort Scott USD 234Makayla Gray, Burlington Elementary School, Burlington USD 244Michael Lager, Junction City High School, Geary County USD 475Alyssa Larson, Gray Hawk Elementary School, Basehor-Linwood USD 458Trenton Lowry, North Lawn Elementary School, Neodesha USD 461Region 3Sarah Alas, Delaware Ridge Elementary School, Bonner Springs USD 204Ryleigh Diskin, Ray Marsh Elementary School, Shawnee Mission USD 512Marie Jones, Scarborough Elementary School, Olathe USD 233Brock LaPlante, Spring Hill High School, Spring Hill USD 230Tara Mulcahy, Broadmoor Elementary School, Louisburg USD 416Steve Murray, Olathe West High School, Olathe USD 233Allaire Pigg, Turner High School, Turner USD 202Eric Reece, Central Heights Middle School, Central Heights USD 288Region 4Viridiana Arias, Maize South High School, Maize USD 266Lexie Bullinger, Robert M. Martin Elementary School, Andover USD 385Joshua Isaacs, West Elementary School, Valley Center USD 262Tyler Kohlman, Amelia Earhart Elementary School, Goddard USD 265Matt Miller, Truesdell Middle School, Wichita USD 259Anna Patton, Augusta Middle School, Augusta USD 402Hannah Reynolds, Eisenhower High School, Goddard USD 265

'25 Kansas Horizon Award program recognizes 32 educators

The Golden Belt Community Foundation has announced their 2025 grant cycles. The first cycle opens in February. Whether you’re a nonprofit, school, or community organization, the Foundation encourages you to explore the opportunities available.

- View the 2025 Grant Cycle schedule (attached to this post) - Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://goldenbeltcf.org/grants?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0hzXYRb4RnfjQrIEortx0FwUJLfFxPZAFPRc7X17LZVg9dWMDiNaZw3nQ_aem_1NwDpnmzISBwY8aGWJedOQ">goldenbeltcf.org/grants</a>&nbsp;to learn more and apply&nbsp;&nbsp;

Questions? Reach out to the Foundation at 620-792-3000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737732540971.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Golden Belt Community Foundation has announced their 2025 grant cycles. The first cycle opens in February. Whether you’re a nonprofit, school, or community organization, the Foundation encourages you to explore the opportunities available.- View the 2025 Grant Cycle schedule (attached to this post) - Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://goldenbeltcf.org/grants?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0hzXYRb4RnfjQrIEortx0FwUJLfFxPZAFPRc7X17LZVg9dWMDiNaZw3nQ_aem_1NwDpnmzISBwY8aGWJedOQ">goldenbeltcf.org/grants</a>&nbsp;to learn more and apply&nbsp;&nbsp; Questions? Reach out to the Foundation at 620-792-3000.

Golden Belt Community Foundation announces grant cycles

The Hoisington Public Library will be hosting a Valentine's craft project on Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The "love bug craft" will take place at the library, 169 S. Walnut Street in Hoisington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737734621477.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Hoisington Public Library will be hosting a Valentine's craft project on Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The "love bug craft" will take place at the library, 169 S. Walnut Street in Hoisington.

Hoisington library hosting Valentine's craft project

Since All Stars has become popular in all USD 428 elementary schools, as well as two other facilities, Michelle Daniel encourages sixth-grade teachers throughout central Kansas to consider the program.

Daniel, student and family advocate at Riley School in Great Bend, collaborates with Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services executive director, to offer All Stars in sixth-grade classrooms.

“We want to increase the number of students who delay the onset of using drugs and alcohol,” Daniel said. “All Star lessons teach students to think critically about what type of future they want.

“They delve into future possibilities, while All Stars cautions them about roadblocks to achieving their dreams. We hope they will not choose drugs or alcohol, or other risky behavior because it could get in the way of attaining success in life.”

Daniel, who has been involved in All Stars for more than a decade, added that students also learn that “the future is not given to them. They must work hard to reach their goals.”

Student and family advocates, along with math and reading coaches, teach a 45-minute lesson once a week for 16 weeks. In addition to USD 428 schools, Ellinwood and Central Plains are involved. Parents sign a permission form for All Stars.

“We get positive feedback from parents and teachers alike,” Daniel commented. “For example, parents like to participate by helping their kids with homework four times

during the four-month program, and teachers like the curriculum and enjoy co-teaching.”

Typically, she added, the Kansas Communities That Care Survey indicates All Stars helps students look at their lives from new perspectives, while considering what obstacles may come their way.

Daniel noted that she and her Riley School colleagues appreciate their partnership with Juveniles Services, which covers Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford counties.

“When we need guidance, materials, prizes or training, they are always willing to help,” she explained. “Also, Juvenile Services provides food and support during our end-of-class celebrations. They have even taught a few lessons for us, when necessary.”

Daniel deserves a lot of credit for getting All Stars off the ground, said Marissa Woodmansee at Juvenile Services, noting Riley School became the site of a pilot program under the leadership of Daniel and JoAnn Blevins.

“Michelle approached us, asking about a curriculum that followed the DARE prevention program for fifth-graders,” Woodmansee recalled. “She wanted something to prepare sixth-graders for middle school.

“I mentioned All Stars and how its curriculum includes preparing for the future, while considering how negative behaviors adversely affect the road to a successful life.”

Daniel earned a master’s in social work and “understands the importance of guiding conversations with sixth-graders,” Woodmansee noted. “It is fun to see the family support advocates build strong bonds with students in All Stars.

“It is also exciting to see these young people read their commitments to the future during end-of-year celebrations.”

Woodmansee strongly encouraged other schools in the 20th Judicial District to learn more about All Stars. Her number is 620-793-1930.

20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake &amp; Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737735707712.jpeg" alt="From left to right: Jose Suarez, Jacob Rodriguez and Kendra Talamantes present information about their futuristic invention – an electronic notepad that teleports people by typing in an address. The Riley School sixth-graders participate in All Stars." />
 <figcaption>From left to right: Jose Suarez, Jacob Rodriguez and Kendra Talamantes present information about their futuristic invention – an electronic notepad that teleports people by typing in an address. The Riley School sixth-graders participate in All Stars.</figcaption>
 </figure>Since All Stars has become popular in all USD 428 elementary schools, as well as two other facilities, Michelle Daniel encourages sixth-grade teachers throughout central Kansas to consider the program.Daniel, student and family advocate at Riley School in Great Bend, collaborates with Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services executive director, to offer All Stars in sixth-grade classrooms.“We want to increase the number of students who delay the onset of using drugs and alcohol,” Daniel said. “All Star lessons teach students to think critically about what type of future they want.“They delve into future possibilities, while All Stars cautions them about roadblocks to achieving their dreams. We hope they will not choose drugs or alcohol, or other risky behavior because it could get in the way of attaining success in life.”Daniel, who has been involved in All Stars for more than a decade, added that students also learn that “the future is not given to them. They must work hard to reach their goals.”Student and family advocates, along with math and reading coaches, teach a 45-minute lesson once a week for 16 weeks. In addition to USD 428 schools, Ellinwood and Central Plains are involved. Parents sign a permission form for All Stars.“We get positive feedback from parents and teachers alike,” Daniel commented. “For example, parents like to participate by helping their kids with homework four timesduring the four-month program, and teachers like the curriculum and enjoy co-teaching.”Typically, she added, the Kansas Communities That Care Survey indicates All Stars helps students look at their lives from new perspectives, while considering what obstacles may come their way.Daniel noted that she and her Riley School colleagues appreciate their partnership with Juveniles Services, which covers Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford counties.“When we need guidance, materials, prizes or training, they are always willing to help,” she explained. “Also, Juvenile Services provides food and support during our end-of-class celebrations. They have even taught a few lessons for us, when necessary.”Juvenile ServicesDaniel deserves a lot of credit for getting All Stars off the ground, said Marissa Woodmansee at Juvenile Services, noting Riley School became the site of a pilot program under the leadership of Daniel and JoAnn Blevins.“Michelle approached us, asking about a curriculum that followed the DARE prevention program for fifth-graders,” Woodmansee recalled. “She wanted something to prepare sixth-graders for middle school.“I mentioned All Stars and how its curriculum includes preparing for the future, while considering how negative behaviors adversely affect the road to a successful life.”Daniel earned a master’s in social work and “understands the importance of guiding conversations with sixth-graders,” Woodmansee noted. “It is fun to see the family support advocates build strong bonds with students in All Stars.“It is also exciting to see these young people read their commitments to the future during end-of-year celebrations.”Woodmansee strongly encouraged other schools in the 20th Judicial District to learn more about All Stars. Her number is 620-793-1930.20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake &amp; Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.

All Stars organizers encourage sixth-grade teachers to participate

KIOWA COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal rollover crash that occurred&nbsp; during a police pursuit just after 9p.m. Saturday in Kowa County.

&nbsp;The patrol reported law enforcement was in pursuit of a vehicle eastbound on U.S. 54 one mile west of Greensburg.

The vehicle traveled into south ditch, struck a field entrance, went airborne and rolled multiple times coming to rest the field facing northeast. The KHP released no additional details early Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Check the Post for more information as it is released.

KIOWA COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal rollover crash that occurred&nbsp; during a police pursuit just after 9p.m. Saturday in Kowa County.&nbsp;The patrol reported law enforcement was in pursuit of a vehicle eastbound on U.S. 54 one mile west of Greensburg.The vehicle traveled into south ditch, struck a field entrance, went airborne and rolled multiple times coming to rest the field facing northeast. The KHP released no additional details early Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Check the Post for more information as it is released.

KHP investigating fatal rollover crash during police chase

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Media's Mike Courson and Barton County Health Director Karen Winkelman and Clinical Nurse Supervisor Lindsey Ensley that aired Jan. 23, 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 Mike Courson and Barton County Health Director Karen Winkelman and Clinical Nurse Supervisor Lindsey Ensley that aired Jan. 23, 2025.<div><iframe title="County Edition: Barton Co. Health's Winkelman & Ensley" 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=3qfey-17c64b2-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 Co. Health's Winkelman & Ensley

This Community Risk Reduction Week (January 20-26), the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas encourages everyone to follow important steps to prevent home fires. Over the past decade, The Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has saved more than 2,000 lives, installed nearly 3 million smoke alarms, made over 1.2 million households safer and served over 3.1 million people through in-home visits.

This Community Risk Reduction Week (January 20-26), the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas encourages everyone to follow important steps to prevent home fires. Over the past decade, The Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has saved more than 2,000 lives, installed nearly 3 million smoke alarms, made over 1.2 million households safer and served over 3.1 million people through in-home visits."Since launching the Home Fire Campaign in 2014, we’ve helped save more than 2,000 lives across the country by installing free smoke alarms and helping families create escape plans,” said Jane Blocher, Executive Director for the Red Cross of Greater Kansas. “This Community Risk Reduction Week, help protect your family by testing your smoke alarms and practicing your two-minute escape plan with everyone in your household.”As the Red Cross has adapted our mission over the years to meet the needs of communities and to help prevent deaths and injuries from home fires, our work remains critically important as home fires remain the most frequent disaster nationwide. This critical work is made possible through our volunteers and partners, who have helped us to install more than 2.6 million free smoke alarms and make more than 1 million households safer nationwide.Through targeted outreach, we’re working with community partners to connect with families and educate kids about home fire safety. Home fires claim seven lives every day in the U.S., but having working smoke alarms can cut the risk of death by half.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdihSr2Qk88-2BalduvWf0aaxfpOWUE6OSp3HEBm9s2-2BPMPJA-3D-3D1xWx_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BLCAVLHm8s4PUn0H9mVxm-2F4BEd3EaN60J6eKlM4FtHLYw9HsOZFZ50eKYp4-2BRAZF2ZKfng7N6KH3jeZN24dcX1ZpF58erIkoEkH256CqidfZQb-2F4jx-2Bv3LAGwg5wCqU58UVydZy03qp57eC-2FBbU8qkrHk99XsBQxNumjxtO6L-2B4MpVvM9nVVBWjLcBuebM8E3lm34clnaI9l2R7sw2V0ng-3D-3D">Sound the Alarm</a>&nbsp;events are part of our national Home Fire Campaign, which has saved at least 2,266 lives and installed more than 2.6 million free smoke alarms across the country.<ul>
 <li>GET HELP:&nbsp;If you need smoke alarms, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdRtZeIL-2FsMA470mn-2FRVsQzrw0bBa6TBuwAU9dD4Ml1eqOmwn_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BLCAVLHm8s4PUn0H9mVxm-2F4BEd3EaN60J6eKlM4FtHLYw9HsOZFZ50eKYp4-2BRAZF2ZKfng7N6KH3jeZN24dcXxacwEWT-2Fc9zzkO9DVmupB5jNlfCy1fe0lqexJcdd-2FtsJXQmmVBIpGxUDRSioimeXATYRwEniB9G3ntvp9UQ3GcxLCw7snkSiE7ofAyTOS4l4cUSc-2BKSCuW-2BAwgq1nLlYw-3D-3D">SoundTheAlarm.org/kansas</a>&nbsp;for a free smoke alarm installation.</li><li>VOLUNTEER:&nbsp;Join in our lifesaving mission. Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUyuVGfd3LOYAx260OHrIuXL6SIR_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BLCAVLHm8s4PUn0H9mVxm-2F4BEd3EaN60J6eKlM4FtHLYw9HsOZFZ50eKYp4-2BRAZF2ZKfng7N6KH3jeZN24dcX1ce3qu8ZtQOt3efbdql5DLJG1zUpvbJaxsaguJuAblYNArLOtstLP7ZbYYXamkTdUCtA-2FN1r-2FycLPi9H-2FA1di9bTIuVgWnmSs447ABRGdEr30ruOtD9KNFKdSlUxBaV2w-3D-3D">redcross.org/volunteer</a>&nbsp;to sign up to help your community by installing smoke alarms or responding to home fires.</li><li>DONATE:&nbsp;Thanks to donations, our services are free and available for all those in need. Help families prepare for, respond to and recover from home fires by giving at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUwwybZoOB-2BvKUl99z4ea04FztJw_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BLCAVLHm8s4PUn0H9mVxm-2F4BEd3EaN60J6eKlM4FtHLYw9HsOZFZ50eKYp4-2BRAZF2ZKfng7N6KH3jeZN24dcX9UX2G-2Bkr4b9BTXAgTv19kfWWXBIg4JqRknlH76rXtOGaizeDZ1f27P6TiR-2BhjhLxjOPCFMTc4bg1b2J7UJUe-2F4KYrgaovzSZ4josfIO6TChxs7I8q4Eao6UjUJvNT-2FRUg-3D-3D">redcross.org</a>.</li>
 </ul>Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUysulehxI60UorhHGlVUwVxNmMz_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BLCAVLHm8s4PUn0H9mVxm-2F4BEd3EaN60J6eKlM4FtHLYw9HsOZFZ50eKYp4-2BRAZF2ZKfng7N6KH3jeZN24dcXzRpbzoOtzp5vi4qPGjg-2BCBOQlACNkMN0SH8tWM1Mjd8YkDx6x3GYNMT-2BUl9sqnad3zQJQv4Wv0pmZJOWcXqzhLifiOmHmAoquMIWWIReISBFGhC1WLDyI5GgGRPvTxXVQ-3D-3D">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including a home fire escape plan to create and practice with your household. You can also download our free Emergency app (search “American Red Cross” in app stores).

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