Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc., recently completed a member-wide customer satisfaction survey in which members scored WEC as one of the highest rated utilities in the nation.

Both paper and online survey responses were sent to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), a company that measures customer satisfaction across multiple industries throughout the entire United States.

For 2024, WEC received an ACSI score of 90 out of a maximum score of 100, the second highest score the cooperative has received to date. This places WEC in the top 15% of electric co-ops surveyed this year, according to Touchstone Energy, a network of nearly 900 electric cooperatives nationwide.

"Receiving an ACSI in the 90s for the second consecutive year is truly exciting for us,” said Bruce W. Mueller, CEO/general manager. “For several years, we've dedicated ourselves to enhancing member satisfaction through multiple programs and services including our capital credits program, new events for young adult members and families, by backing community projects through our Sharing Success Fund, and supporting local food banks through Cram the Van each fall. We’re here for our members, and their positive feedback is energizing!”

Members at WEC’s 2024 Annual Meeting, held on April 24, 2024, across eight meeting locations in southwest and central Kansas, were asked to complete the survey, with the option of remaining anonymous prior to submission. Nearly 230 written responses were collected and submitted to ACSI, as well as just over 150 additional online responses through our website.

WEC’s score is higher than all 2024 investor-owned utility scores and municipal utility scores. It places WEC 16 points higher than the average investor-owned utility score of 74, as well as 15 points higher than the municipal utilities score of 75, per the industry ratings in the 2024 ACSI Utility Sector Report. It is also 12 points higher than the cooperative industry average of 78. For more information, please visit www.theacsi.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720028383055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSWheatland Electric Cooperative Inc., recently completed a member-wide customer satisfaction survey in which members scored WEC as one of the highest rated utilities in the nation.Both paper and online survey responses were sent to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), a company that measures customer satisfaction across multiple industries throughout the entire United States.For 2024, WEC received an ACSI score of 90 out of a maximum score of 100, the second highest score the cooperative has received to date. This places WEC in the top 15% of electric co-ops surveyed this year, according to Touchstone Energy, a network of nearly 900 electric cooperatives nationwide."Receiving an ACSI in the 90s for the second consecutive year is truly exciting for us,” said Bruce W. Mueller, CEO/general manager. “For several years, we've dedicated ourselves to enhancing member satisfaction through multiple programs and services including our capital credits program, new events for young adult members and families, by backing community projects through our Sharing Success Fund, and supporting local food banks through Cram the Van each fall. We’re here for our members, and their positive feedback is energizing!”Members at WEC’s 2024 Annual Meeting, held on April 24, 2024, across eight meeting locations in southwest and central Kansas, were asked to complete the survey, with the option of remaining anonymous prior to submission. Nearly 230 written responses were collected and submitted to ACSI, as well as just over 150 additional online responses through our website.WEC’s score is higher than all 2024 investor-owned utility scores and municipal utility scores. It places WEC 16 points higher than the average investor-owned utility score of 74, as well as 15 points higher than the municipal utilities score of 75, per the industry ratings in the 2024 ACSI Utility Sector Report. It is also 12 points higher than the cooperative industry average of 78. For more information, please visit www.theacsi.org.

Wheatland Electric receives 90% on customer satisfaction survey

From Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas

In a display of community support and solidarity, Stafford County Economic Development has co-sponsored a refugee family from Venezuela, giving them a new home and a fresh start in Southwest Kansas. This initiative, led by Ryan Russell, executive director of Stafford County Economic Development, and facilitated by Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, exemplifies the profound impact co-sponsorship can have on both refugee families and the communities that welcome them.

Mario Ariza Chamorro, his wife Maylyn Chirinos Damas, and their two daughters, Ivanna (11) and Bianca (4), arrived in Stafford County just two weeks ago. Their journey to Kansas began about six months ago when Ryan Russell reached out to Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, expressing interest in sponsoring a refugee family. Stafford County, like many rural areas, has been seeking creative ways to grow its population and strengthen its community.

"We're really a welcoming community," Ryan explained. "We have great people, but we have a shortage of people in our county. We're trying to reverse that trend by building houses and engaging in economic activities. We thought immigrant placement programs could be a great way to bring new families into our county, increasing the number of children in our schools and workers in our community.”

Marci Smith, Director of Family Services at Catholic Charities, oversees the Immigration and Refugee Resettlement Program and played a crucial role in selecting the right family for Stafford County. “Ryan and his team were looking for a young family with children who could integrate quickly into the community,” Marci said. “They believed that a Spanish-speaking family would fit in well, given the existing Hispanic community in Stafford County.”

Ryan's previous experiences and connections helped him understand the importance of such programs. "I had friends who sponsored families from Myanmar, and I lived in Myanmar for ten years," he shared. "I knew that families with children would integrate faster and have multiple touchpoints with the community through schools and extracurricular activities.”

When Marci informed Ryan that the Ariza-Chirinos family would arrive in just three days, the community sprang into action. "I'm a bit of a risk-taker," Ryan admitted. "I wanted to see if we could get things done to do this." "They really stepped up," said Marci. "They arranged for housing, secured job opportunities, and mobilized the community to provide support.”

The community's response was overwhelming. The one hotel in the county provided immediate housing. There was a newly built three-bedroom, two-bath house in Macksville that had been finished in August. "I called and talked to Housing Opportunities Inc, our partner organization that works with us to manage the houses: 'Hey, is this possible to do this?' 'Well, we need these things to be able to make it happen.' 'Okay, I can do that.' These conversations gave me confidence that we could do it pretty easily," Ryan said. Rachel Sandoval, a local English teacher, provided translation services. Juan, a volunteer from Macksville, helped pick up the family from Dodge City. Zenia Gonzalez provided translation and cultural training. The local ministerial alliance donated gift cards for groceries. Several families donated furniture and The Second Chances Thrift Store gave a lot of furniture as well.

The family was welcomed with open arms. "By the first weekend, they were already attending mass and meeting people at church," Marci noted. "This immediate sense of community helps people feel like they belong and encourages them to stay.”

Ryan echoed this sentiment as he recalled an incident with the library in Stafford. "I basically just gave them a heads up and said, 'Hey, I'm gonna be bringing this family over. They don't speak any English and so could you give them a schedule for activities?' They took it on themselves to bring a Spanish speaker in to explain the summer program. They did a great job. All three towns have been really open and welcoming to them, and it's been really nice.”

Stafford County's commitment to the family extends beyond the initial 90 days of co-sponsorship. "We've lined up driving lessons for Mario and Maylyn, and the girls are ready to start school," Ryan said. "The community is excited to have them, and there's a strong support network in place. We're also working on getting them into more English classes.”

The success of this initiative has inspired Ryan to advocate for similar programs in other rural communities. "More communities should do this," he emphasized. "There are so many towns in central and western Kansas that need people. This is a no-brainer for communities looking to grow their population and support families in need.”

Co-sponsorship involves a community or organization committing to support the integration and resettlement of a refugee family. This includes arranging housing, securing job opportunities, and providing necessary services before and after the family's arrival. The goal is to ensure that the family feels welcomed and supported as they adjust to their new life.

Marci highlighted the benefits of co-sponsorship: "The families tend to be much more vested in their community. They don't want to leave because they feel welcomed. They get involved right away in community activities.”

Additionally, co-sponsorship provides better services for the families. "We are stretched pretty thin, so we often have to say, ‘We can only do this one day a week.’ But with co-sponsorship, the family has their own group that is just there for them as they need them," Marci explained. "They get better services and feel more connected and involved.”

Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas works closely with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Kansas Office of Refugees to facilitate the resettlement process. Communities or organizations interested in co-sponsoring a refugee family should:

"We plan on communicating our success story to other economic development professionals to encourage them to consider co-sponsorship," Ryan said. "I think a lot of towns would be very happy to take immigrants, especially ones with kids. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.”

For more information on how to get involved with the Refugee Resettlement Program, please contact Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas. Together, we can create a world where every person experiences hope and fulfill

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719940107395.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Catholic Charities of Southwest KansasIn a display of community support and solidarity, Stafford County Economic Development has co-sponsored a refugee family from Venezuela, giving them a new home and a fresh start in Southwest Kansas. This initiative, led by Ryan Russell, executive director of Stafford County Economic Development, and facilitated by Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, exemplifies the profound impact co-sponsorship can have on both refugee families and the communities that welcome them.<h2>A New Beginning</h2>Mario Ariza Chamorro, his wife Maylyn Chirinos Damas, and their two daughters, Ivanna (11) and Bianca (4), arrived in Stafford County just two weeks ago. Their journey to Kansas began about six months ago when Ryan Russell reached out to Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, expressing interest in sponsoring a refugee family. Stafford County, like many rural areas, has been seeking creative ways to grow its population and strengthen its community."We're really a welcoming community," Ryan explained. "We have great people, but we have a shortage of people in our county. We're trying to reverse that trend by building houses and engaging in economic activities. We thought immigrant placement programs could be a great way to bring new families into our county, increasing the number of children in our schools and workers in our community.”<h2>The Selection Process</h2>Marci Smith, Director of Family Services at Catholic Charities, oversees the Immigration and Refugee Resettlement Program and played a crucial role in selecting the right family for Stafford County. “Ryan and his team were looking for a young family with children who could integrate quickly into the community,” Marci said. “They believed that a Spanish-speaking family would fit in well, given the existing Hispanic community in Stafford County.”Ryan's previous experiences and connections helped him understand the importance of such programs. "I had friends who sponsored families from Myanmar, and I lived in Myanmar for ten years," he shared. "I knew that families with children would integrate faster and have multiple touchpoints with the community through schools and extracurricular activities.”<h2>Swift Action and Community Support</h2>When Marci informed Ryan that the Ariza-Chirinos family would arrive in just three days, the community sprang into action. "I'm a bit of a risk-taker," Ryan admitted. "I wanted to see if we could get things done to do this." "They really stepped up," said Marci. "They arranged for housing, secured job opportunities, and mobilized the community to provide support.”The community's response was overwhelming. The one hotel in the county provided immediate housing. There was a newly built three-bedroom, two-bath house in Macksville that had been finished in August. "I called and talked to Housing Opportunities Inc, our partner organization that works with us to manage the houses: 'Hey, is this possible to do this?' 'Well, we need these things to be able to make it happen.' 'Okay, I can do that.' These conversations gave me confidence that we could do it pretty easily," Ryan said. Rachel Sandoval, a local English teacher, provided translation services. Juan, a volunteer from Macksville, helped pick up the family from Dodge City. Zenia Gonzalez provided translation and cultural training. The local ministerial alliance donated gift cards for groceries. Several families donated furniture and The Second Chances Thrift Store gave a lot of furniture as well.<h2>A Warm Welcome</h2>The family was welcomed with open arms. "By the first weekend, they were already attending mass and meeting people at church," Marci noted. "This immediate sense of community helps people feel like they belong and encourages them to stay.”Ryan echoed this sentiment as he recalled an incident with the library in Stafford. "I basically just gave them a heads up and said, 'Hey, I'm gonna be bringing this family over. They don't speak any English and so could you give them a schedule for activities?' They took it on themselves to bring a Spanish speaker in to explain the summer program. They did a great job. All three towns have been really open and welcoming to them, and it's been really nice.”<h2>Ongoing Support and Future Plans</h2>Stafford County's commitment to the family extends beyond the initial 90 days of co-sponsorship. "We've lined up driving lessons for Mario and Maylyn, and the girls are ready to start school," Ryan said. "The community is excited to have them, and there's a strong support network in place. We're also working on getting them into more English classes.”The success of this initiative has inspired Ryan to advocate for similar programs in other rural communities. "More communities should do this," he emphasized. "There are so many towns in central and western Kansas that need people. This is a no-brainer for communities looking to grow their population and support families in need.”<h2>Understanding Co-Sponsorship</h2>Co-sponsorship involves a community or organization committing to support the integration and resettlement of a refugee family. This includes arranging housing, securing job opportunities, and providing necessary services before and after the family's arrival. The goal is to ensure that the family feels welcomed and supported as they adjust to their new life.Marci highlighted the benefits of co-sponsorship: "The families tend to be much more vested in their community. They don't want to leave because they feel welcomed. They get involved right away in community activities.”Additionally, co-sponsorship provides better services for the families. "We are stretched pretty thin, so we often have to say, ‘We can only do this one day a week.’ But with co-sponsorship, the family has their own group that is just there for them as they need them," Marci explained. "They get better services and feel more connected and involved.”<h2>How to Get Involved</h2>Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas works closely with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Kansas Office of Refugees to facilitate the resettlement process. Communities or organizations interested in co-sponsoring a refugee family should:<ol>
 <li>Express Interest:&nbsp;Reach out to Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas or a similar resettlement agency to express your interest in co-sponsoring a refugee family.&nbsp;</li><li>Assessment and Matching:&nbsp;Work with the agency to find a suitable family, considering the community's capacity and the family's needs.&nbsp;</li><li>Preparation:&nbsp;Arrange housing, employment opportunities, and necessary services before the family's arrival.&nbsp;</li><li>Arrival and Orientation:&nbsp;Welcome the family, provide initial orientation, and help them understand their new environment.&nbsp;</li><li>Ongoing Support:&nbsp;Offer continuous support in areas such as education, healthcare, language classes, and community integration.&nbsp;</li><li>Community Involvement:&nbsp;Engage the local community to provide a network of support and resources.&nbsp;</li><li>Cultural Sensitivity:&nbsp;Ensure that the family feels respected and their cultural background is honored.&nbsp;</li><li>Financial Responsibility:&nbsp;Possibly provide financial support for housing, living expenses, and other essentials until the family becomes self-sufficient.</li>
 </ol>"We plan on communicating our success story to other economic development professionals to encourage them to consider co-sponsorship," Ryan said. "I think a lot of towns would be very happy to take immigrants, especially ones with kids. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.”For more information on how to get involved with the Refugee Resettlement Program, please contact Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas. Together, we can create a world where every person experiences hope and fulfill

Stafford County Eco Devot and Catholic Charities welcome refugee family

From Eagle Radio and Great Bend Post, thank you to all the military men and women serving our country!

<div><iframe src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d3CEsFTmZE1qK2IKorP0YGP-l1VZ3JtQ/preview" width="640" height="480" allow="autoplay"></iframe></div>From Eagle Radio and Great Bend Post, thank you to all the military men and women serving our country!

🎥Local freedom salutes...thanks to all military men & women

RUSSELL COUNTY—A Kansas man died in the storm that rolled through Russell County late Wednesday.

Just before midnight, Russell County dispatch received numerous 911 calls reporting multiple campers at Lake Wilson blown over, according to a statement from Russell County Sheriff Andrew L. VanDerWege.

Christopher Montoya, 64, Hollyrood, was found dead in the Hell Creek area of the park.&nbsp;Three others were hospitalized for treatment of injuries.

Montoya was transported to a local mortuary. An autopsy is scheduled later Thursday to determine the cause of death, according to the sheriff's office.

Cleanup at the park was under way on Thursday morning. The Russell County Sheriff’s Office urged caution for those traveling to the lake because debris might still be present on the roads and in the water. Power was temporarily interrupted in the area due to the storm.

Those who need help getting campers, boats or other property and equipment recovered should call 911. The Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and the Army Corps of Engineers will assist.

The Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas Wildlife and Parks, Russell County EMS, Lucas Fire Department, Dorrance Fire Department and the Army Corps of Engineers all assisted Wednesday night and early Thursday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720130724760.png" alt="Storm damage at Wilson Lake photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Storm damage at Wilson Lake photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY—A Kansas man died in the storm that rolled through Russell County late Wednesday.Just before midnight, Russell County dispatch received numerous 911 calls reporting multiple campers at Lake Wilson blown over, according to a statement from Russell County Sheriff Andrew L. VanDerWege.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UPDATE: Those in and around WILSON LAKE, a storm is quickly approaching from the west and will likely produce 60 mph winds and penny sized hail! Seek shelter now! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a>&mdash; NWS Wichita (@NWSWichita) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSWichita/status/1808715703828230452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Christopher Montoya, 64, Hollyrood, was found dead in the Hell Creek area of the park.&nbsp;Three others were hospitalized for treatment of injuries.Montoya was transported to a local mortuary. An autopsy is scheduled later Thursday to determine the cause of death, according to the sheriff's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720130786212.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Cleanup at the park was under way on Thursday morning. The Russell County Sheriff’s Office urged caution for those traveling to the lake because debris might still be present on the roads and in the water. Power was temporarily interrupted in the area due to the storm.Those who need help getting campers, boats or other property and equipment recovered should call 911. The Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and the Army Corps of Engineers will assist.The Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas Wildlife and Parks, Russell County EMS, Lucas Fire Department, Dorrance Fire Department and the Army Corps of Engineers all assisted Wednesday night and early Thursday.&nbsp;

Kan. man dead, 3 hospitalized after storm at Wilson Lake

The 4th of July is just around the corner and the American Red Cross offers these tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe during the upcoming holiday:

FIREWORKS SAFETY&nbsp;The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Many states outlaw most fireworks, so consider celebrating with glow sticks, noise makers or silly string instead. If you choose to set fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:

HEAT SAFETY&nbsp;No matter where you live, there’s a good chance you’ll experience a hot 4th of July.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rCxZPcS-2Buw8fe0PeIGJVHcijgMRwXG44f0iD1ejn-2B3m-2FCiqBTh7V-2BrntbloVSdemeOfQIc-2FZwR9Xb9EbRWrToWudwgVjdJwpehufFUhd7fH8RIVPXS6eNboos3KR99t3e6Q-3D-3DjIeN_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BrrWXI3JT-2F6ppMBGpEdIWAADas6IUR-2F1A1-2BsASQYC6Zj0SH7-2BavRAeyqFU8golapDOef-2BbSevZ8NJoIg0wu2N7li7So1rxcw4WGAr0oSG-2BRRvdq63zej8UPb8xekQi8rTUElRSAgmUXkSFwGXmR8i94F2rW-2FGswFjfejqyMe4cSyDI4vawEetZH-2BK6mYJH8PBzHE2nTpmC8PYqilptOQMQ-3D-3D">The Weather Channel</a>&nbsp;reports that this summer parts of the U.S. could see record-setting heat. According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rCzKqHb3OwBCprcC-2BPa0ArDAF7Txr9wf7HocRJLVqoKniG9cws7MSyel7Y3hUtm4xPA0qRg2O3OTbMAQg-2FfVIy6d4-2F4ebVFG-2FaO4kyQEvRtI2h3oiK7hyCvKizGpm2VJLUg-3D-3Dd0zZ_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BrrWXI3JT-2F6ppMBGpEdIWAADas6IUR-2F1A1-2BsASQYC6Zj0SH7-2BavRAeyqFU8golapDOef-2BbSevZ8NJoIg0wu2N9vCEvmNQA2rCJU2R5udqb-2FBzNaf6HJErEfcGvb6OXEwgg1sGH5UO7DxKKLq9a0Az7UKFSojV4YT6rNrI1c2qRk2EoWRcxPLOFjisAUjWqoI53U-2Frh4WKxJEW07OmJ4l9Q-3D-3D">Associated Press</a>, the climate crisis is causing heat waves to happen 67% more often compared to 1979, and last longer with higher temperatures than we experienced 40 years ago.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO&nbsp;Slow down, stay hydrated and spend time indoors.

IMPORTANT WATER SAFETY TIPS&nbsp;This summer, remember these four water safety tips.

TAKE A CLASS&nbsp;Emergencies can happen no matter where you are — at home, at work, at the grocery store or at your local pool. If you are trained in First Aid, you have the ability to respond when minutes matter. While it may be something as simple as caring for cuts and scrapes, it can also be a lifesaving tool that keeps someone alive until help arrives.

You will know what to do in specific emergencies and help care for people as they wait for medical professionals to arrive. Your being able to help right away gives that person the best chance for a positive outcome — and gives you the opportunity to change someone's life for the better. Sign up today for Red Cross First Aid training.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdiilnVoEGs-2FNbhdEvZKRnoBfXm-2BJak7ASLIUCUEFiaOQExBKecTCtsH-2BFumCl-2FHHByUmVcS6CRp1HBIAuEaCsD2uYy_T_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BrrWXI3JT-2F6ppMBGpEdIWAADas6IUR-2F1A1-2BsASQYC6Zj0SH7-2BavRAeyqFU8golapDOef-2BbSevZ8NJoIg0wu2N2SMRpDmIxuOL-2FCuuulLmBGNaNLgaK2Ei36o4B6FWz4PDlmkZgE9xovVkQ8PjEhNfTgNoueeEeCFrQLbX8WM60C1-2BsMTUOfJYfCiykTZJAiv6FJlE3O7AxyrvoX9fPCojg-3D-3D">Find out more here</a>.

The 4th of July is just around the corner and the American Red Cross offers these tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe during the upcoming holiday:FIREWORKS SAFETY&nbsp;The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Many states outlaw most fireworks, so consider celebrating with glow sticks, noise makers or silly string instead. If you choose to set fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:<ul>
 <li>Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.</li><li>Always follow the instructions on the packaging.</li><li>Keep a supply of water close by.</li><li>Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.</li><li>Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."</li><li>Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.</li><li>Never use fireworks around pets, keep pets indoors. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma, and many pets are also fearful of loud noises and can become lost, scared or disoriented.</li>
 </ul>HEAT SAFETY&nbsp;No matter where you live, there’s a good chance you’ll experience a hot 4th of July.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rCxZPcS-2Buw8fe0PeIGJVHcijgMRwXG44f0iD1ejn-2B3m-2FCiqBTh7V-2BrntbloVSdemeOfQIc-2FZwR9Xb9EbRWrToWudwgVjdJwpehufFUhd7fH8RIVPXS6eNboos3KR99t3e6Q-3D-3DjIeN_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BrrWXI3JT-2F6ppMBGpEdIWAADas6IUR-2F1A1-2BsASQYC6Zj0SH7-2BavRAeyqFU8golapDOef-2BbSevZ8NJoIg0wu2N7li7So1rxcw4WGAr0oSG-2BRRvdq63zej8UPb8xekQi8rTUElRSAgmUXkSFwGXmR8i94F2rW-2FGswFjfejqyMe4cSyDI4vawEetZH-2BK6mYJH8PBzHE2nTpmC8PYqilptOQMQ-3D-3D">The Weather Channel</a>&nbsp;reports that this summer parts of the U.S. could see record-setting heat. According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rCzKqHb3OwBCprcC-2BPa0ArDAF7Txr9wf7HocRJLVqoKniG9cws7MSyel7Y3hUtm4xPA0qRg2O3OTbMAQg-2FfVIy6d4-2F4ebVFG-2FaO4kyQEvRtI2h3oiK7hyCvKizGpm2VJLUg-3D-3Dd0zZ_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BrrWXI3JT-2F6ppMBGpEdIWAADas6IUR-2F1A1-2BsASQYC6Zj0SH7-2BavRAeyqFU8golapDOef-2BbSevZ8NJoIg0wu2N9vCEvmNQA2rCJU2R5udqb-2FBzNaf6HJErEfcGvb6OXEwgg1sGH5UO7DxKKLq9a0Az7UKFSojV4YT6rNrI1c2qRk2EoWRcxPLOFjisAUjWqoI53U-2Frh4WKxJEW07OmJ4l9Q-3D-3D">Associated Press</a>, the climate crisis is causing heat waves to happen 67% more often compared to 1979, and last longer with higher temperatures than we experienced 40 years ago.WHAT YOU SHOULD DO&nbsp;Slow down, stay hydrated and spend time indoors.<ul>
 <li>Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.</li><li>Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to fresh water and shade.</li><li>Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or public cooling center. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and don’t have air conditioning.</li>
 </ul>IMPORTANT WATER SAFETY TIPS&nbsp;This summer, remember these four water safety tips.<ul>
 <li>Nobody should ever swim alone – adults and teens as well as children. Never leave a young child unattended near water, and do not trust a child’s life to another child. &nbsp;</li><li>It’s best to always designate a “water watcher” who will keep a close eye and constant attention on children and weaker swimmers in, on and around water until the next water watcher takes over.&nbsp;</li><li>Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone. &nbsp;</li><li>Reach or throw, don't go! In the event of an emergency, reach or throw an object to the person in trouble and tell them to grab on. Don’t go in! You could be in danger of drowning yourself.</li>
 </ul>TAKE A CLASS&nbsp;Emergencies can happen no matter where you are — at home, at work, at the grocery store or at your local pool. If you are trained in First Aid, you have the ability to respond when minutes matter. While it may be something as simple as caring for cuts and scrapes, it can also be a lifesaving tool that keeps someone alive until help arrives.You will know what to do in specific emergencies and help care for people as they wait for medical professionals to arrive. Your being able to help right away gives that person the best chance for a positive outcome — and gives you the opportunity to change someone's life for the better. Sign up today for Red Cross First Aid training.&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC8E4-2FIqwtiZ3BHZgUNGrdiilnVoEGs-2FNbhdEvZKRnoBfXm-2BJak7ASLIUCUEFiaOQExBKecTCtsH-2BFumCl-2FHHByUmVcS6CRp1HBIAuEaCsD2uYy_T_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEv-2BrrWXI3JT-2F6ppMBGpEdIWAADas6IUR-2F1A1-2BsASQYC6Zj0SH7-2BavRAeyqFU8golapDOef-2BbSevZ8NJoIg0wu2N2SMRpDmIxuOL-2FCuuulLmBGNaNLgaK2Ei36o4B6FWz4PDlmkZgE9xovVkQ8PjEhNfTgNoueeEeCFrQLbX8WM60C1-2BsMTUOfJYfCiykTZJAiv6FJlE3O7AxyrvoX9fPCojg-3D-3D">Find out more here</a>.

Tips to help you have a safe 4th of July

This is day 11 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Summer rains that leave behind humid air are keeping farmers out of the fields until late in the day, but producers are just glad to be able to climb in the cab and cut some wheat this year. After a multi-year drought, the showers and sprinkles are welcome, even if they delay the final stretch of the 2024 Kansas wheat harvest.&nbsp;

“Nuisance sprinkles” on Tuesday, July 2, didn’t amount to enough to benefit fall crops, but when coupled with high humidity, kept combines from running in Rooks and Graham counties, where Mike McClellan has just one day left of cutting his hard red winter wheat.&nbsp;

Fall moisture was limited to just a couple of fields and some of his wheat didn’t emerge until spring - making the wheat look very patchy coming out of dormancy. With fields spread out over two counties, some of his fields would pick up a rain, but two miles away, the field wouldn’t receive anything. McClellan remarked he has never seen such a “weather variable year.”

During spring grainfill, his area had mostly decent cool temperatures and moisture, which benefitted the wheat. By mid-June, the temperature got hot.&nbsp;

Harvest started on June 22. Test weights started at 60 pounds per bushel, but have decreased with recent showers. Protein is averaging 12 percent and higher with limited testing. Yields have ranged from 20 to 50 bushels per acre but the average hits in the low to mid 30s. While this is a below-average year of yields, McClellan’s harvest is still better than last year, when he abandoned all of his wheat due to drought.&nbsp;

“I’m tickled to be able to run the combines this year,” he said. “The wheat is surprisingly good for how it looked at the first of March. There was some I didn’t think I’d cut, but I have been able to.”

The area is now 75 percent complete with harvest. When those final few acres are finished, McClellan will start harvesting 500 acres of spring wheat.&nbsp;

Overnight showers and high humidity have kept farmers out of the fields until late over the last couple of days in northwest Kansas, according to Eric Sperber with Cornerstone Ag in Colby. Their draw area includes Rawlins, Thomas, Sheridan and Logan counties. Harvest in the area began on June 21 but didn’t really pick up until June 25. With custom harvest crews arriving mid-last week and cutting through the weekend, harvest pace is picking up as the weather allows.&nbsp;

Sperber noted Cornerstone Ag expects overall receipts to be up from last year at about average. Yields are highly variable, dependent on whether or not they had moisture at drilling last fall, ranging from 20 bushels per acre up to nearly 100 bushels per acre. Average yields look to be better than average overall.&nbsp;

Quality is excellent, with test weights over 60 pounds per bushel and proteins averaging about 12.5 percent.&nbsp;

“This is the best quality we’ve had for several years,” Sperber said.&nbsp;

In Clay County in northeast Kansas, Richard Cott remarked that “my wife Jodi and I will probably never see a crop this good again in our lifetime.” Having three generations help out with harvest - including his wife, son Kyle and granddaughter - makes this year’s harvest even more memorable.&nbsp;

Harvest started the week of June 12 and wrapped up on June 28. The Cotts’ farm seemed to catch rain at the perfect times, especially a good rain in October that established a good stand going into winter. Even with a super dry spring, Kyle described their area like a small vein that followed their fields with rain that allowed the wheat crop to prosper. They applied fungicide and did not see any headscab or rust in any of their fields.&nbsp;

Yields are well above average with proteins in the 11 and 12 percent range. Even with recent rains, test weights have held steady from 59 to 63 pounds per bushel. Overall, the family has been feeling “blessed, to say the least” about this year’s harvest.&nbsp;

Their best wheat came from a field planted behind failed corn and wheat following soybeans also came in above average. The early harvest will help them get their double-cropped corn or soybeans in the ground sooner.&nbsp;

“It’s the best wheat I’ve ever seen,” Kyle said. “We’ve had a very blessed wheat harvest this year. It was actually fun cutting wheat this year. Compared to the past two years, this has been amazing.”&nbsp;

The Kansas Wheat crew will take a break from harvest reporting for the holiday week. Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Monday, July 8 - and put on good fireworks show for the farmers who will continue to work through the festivities!&nbsp;

The 2024 Harvest Reports are brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates, use&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Q5peSBpot0ckiuVPg4gsk3FPYT9q0WU8bLDivtz-I0cCWhVnYTKCM4u2j-aY1uEoUOiF8rLSKTra6mPkModnXbrjDOsF_tEbC5nS75Dz9zF_k8BJAwnIsGNj28RQr084Wo72ukjihJ6-31D14wKHfcQl5bxIYSpk9Dxu72yDsgmMlewBrf3ytlgeUmy8T7WwyCnu86O6kOXb0qbz1K4qkNwJoeyxKxy1YiusVJzlyYY=&amp;c=MnICVt-fT8uoPYnAQf4dVz6oBYEvZ_-ts8NANaZ2nqmMQ7eBxy9Ekw==&amp;ch=zC-i9WtqM9zrgpCCO7MhTPTcrm3VIlEHY2jr9-Np-UPQQwOkdg_Qyw==">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Q5peSBpot0ckiuVPg4gsk3FPYT9q0WU8bLDivtz-I0cCWhVnYTKCM_fAbCeUWYzHyHMPFACxPURZ7LX9mlqKodZxnIbRN4q4UMRGCWNUGi46HfXtfZ178mZc97GY1RwXuOKCIWlqh5rwo4CNU_ZfNXod-LpjbfQzupKv1r68oEg=&amp;c=MnICVt-fT8uoPYnAQf4dVz6oBYEvZ_-ts8NANaZ2nqmMQ7eBxy9Ekw==&amp;ch=zC-i9WtqM9zrgpCCO7MhTPTcrm3VIlEHY2jr9-Np-UPQQwOkdg_Qyw==">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Q5peSBpot0ckiuVPg4gsk3FPYT9q0WU8bLDivtz-I0cCWhVnYTKCM6CXQ18eZkbcEA60P9l2zP6PcM2EivMClt37jhe5CtGgj6MCKMTPFIE68I5rQVgAt6Fb1Bz9nhwp0_wJf_GDubNx_zHMGwF5s6ualaaZfIe1&amp;c=MnICVt-fT8uoPYnAQf4dVz6oBYEvZ_-ts8NANaZ2nqmMQ7eBxy9Ekw==&amp;ch=zC-i9WtqM9zrgpCCO7MhTPTcrm3VIlEHY2jr9-Np-UPQQwOkdg_Qyw==">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Q5peSBpot0ckiuVPg4gsk3FPYT9q0WU8bLDivtz-I0cCWhVnYTKCMzUVC_4s01fmlbOBy9bVwqr1UjmAZm9_PyXDMcYshBR1__ms56nwKY5DRLiTqgMsRF_Q7fxdCYtpKQ6NpzJOreHWWaGLyXSuUUK8coT8plM0&amp;c=MnICVt-fT8uoPYnAQf4dVz6oBYEvZ_-ts8NANaZ2nqmMQ7eBxy9Ekw==&amp;ch=zC-i9WtqM9zrgpCCO7MhTPTcrm3VIlEHY2jr9-Np-UPQQwOkdg_Qyw==">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720030210810.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 11 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Summer rains that leave behind humid air are keeping farmers out of the fields until late in the day, but producers are just glad to be able to climb in the cab and cut some wheat this year. After a multi-year drought, the showers and sprinkles are welcome, even if they delay the final stretch of the 2024 Kansas wheat harvest.&nbsp;“Nuisance sprinkles” on Tuesday, July 2, didn’t amount to enough to benefit fall crops, but when coupled with high humidity, kept combines from running in Rooks and Graham counties, where Mike McClellan has just one day left of cutting his hard red winter wheat.&nbsp;Fall moisture was limited to just a couple of fields and some of his wheat didn’t emerge until spring - making the wheat look very patchy coming out of dormancy. With fields spread out over two counties, some of his fields would pick up a rain, but two miles away, the field wouldn’t receive anything. McClellan remarked he has never seen such a “weather variable year.”During spring grainfill, his area had mostly decent cool temperatures and moisture, which benefitted the wheat. By mid-June, the temperature got hot.&nbsp;Harvest started on June 22. Test weights started at 60 pounds per bushel, but have decreased with recent showers. Protein is averaging 12 percent and higher with limited testing. Yields have ranged from 20 to 50 bushels per acre but the average hits in the low to mid 30s. While this is a below-average year of yields, McClellan’s harvest is still better than last year, when he abandoned all of his wheat due to drought.&nbsp;“I’m tickled to be able to run the combines this year,” he said. “The wheat is surprisingly good for how it looked at the first of March. There was some I didn’t think I’d cut, but I have been able to.”The area is now 75 percent complete with harvest. When those final few acres are finished, McClellan will start harvesting 500 acres of spring wheat.&nbsp;Overnight showers and high humidity have kept farmers out of the fields until late over the last couple of days in northwest Kansas, according to Eric Sperber with Cornerstone Ag in Colby. Their draw area includes Rawlins, Thomas, Sheridan and Logan counties. Harvest in the area began on June 21 but didn’t really pick up until June 25. With custom harvest crews arriving mid-last week and cutting through the weekend, harvest pace is picking up as the weather allows.&nbsp;Sperber noted Cornerstone Ag expects overall receipts to be up from last year at about average. Yields are highly variable, dependent on whether or not they had moisture at drilling last fall, ranging from 20 bushels per acre up to nearly 100 bushels per acre. Average yields look to be better than average overall.&nbsp;Quality is excellent, with test weights over 60 pounds per bushel and proteins averaging about 12.5 percent.&nbsp;“This is the best quality we’ve had for several years,” Sperber said.&nbsp;In Clay County in northeast Kansas, Richard Cott remarked that “my wife Jodi and I will probably never see a crop this good again in our lifetime.” Having three generations help out with harvest - including his wife, son Kyle and granddaughter - makes this year’s harvest even more memorable.&nbsp;Harvest started the week of June 12 and wrapped up on June 28. The Cotts’ farm seemed to catch rain at the perfect times, especially a good rain in October that established a good stand going into winter. Even with a super dry spring, Kyle described their area like a small vein that followed their fields with rain that allowed the wheat crop to prosper. They applied fungicide and did not see any headscab or rust in any of their fields.&nbsp;Yields are well above average with proteins in the 11 and 12 percent range. Even with recent rains, test weights have held steady from 59 to 63 pounds per bushel. Overall, the family has been feeling “blessed, to say the least” about this year’s harvest.&nbsp;Their best wheat came from a field planted behind failed corn and wheat following soybeans also came in above average. The early harvest will help them get their double-cropped corn or soybeans in the ground sooner.&nbsp;“It’s the best wheat I’ve ever seen,” Kyle said. “We’ve had a very blessed wheat harvest this year. It was actually fun cutting wheat this year. Compared to the past two years, this has been amazing.”&nbsp;The Kansas Wheat crew will take a break from harvest reporting for the holiday week. Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Monday, July 8 - and put on good fireworks show for the farmers who will continue to work through the festivities!&nbsp;The 2024 Harvest Reports are brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates, use&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Q5peSBpot0ckiuVPg4gsk3FPYT9q0WU8bLDivtz-I0cCWhVnYTKCM4u2j-aY1uEoUOiF8rLSKTra6mPkModnXbrjDOsF_tEbC5nS75Dz9zF_k8BJAwnIsGNj28RQr084Wo72ukjihJ6-31D14wKHfcQl5bxIYSpk9Dxu72yDsgmMlewBrf3ytlgeUmy8T7WwyCnu86O6kOXb0qbz1K4qkNwJoeyxKxy1YiusVJzlyYY=&amp;c=MnICVt-fT8uoPYnAQf4dVz6oBYEvZ_-ts8NANaZ2nqmMQ7eBxy9Ekw==&amp;ch=zC-i9WtqM9zrgpCCO7MhTPTcrm3VIlEHY2jr9-Np-UPQQwOkdg_Qyw==">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Q5peSBpot0ckiuVPg4gsk3FPYT9q0WU8bLDivtz-I0cCWhVnYTKCM_fAbCeUWYzHyHMPFACxPURZ7LX9mlqKodZxnIbRN4q4UMRGCWNUGi46HfXtfZ178mZc97GY1RwXuOKCIWlqh5rwo4CNU_ZfNXod-LpjbfQzupKv1r68oEg=&amp;c=MnICVt-fT8uoPYnAQf4dVz6oBYEvZ_-ts8NANaZ2nqmMQ7eBxy9Ekw==&amp;ch=zC-i9WtqM9zrgpCCO7MhTPTcrm3VIlEHY2jr9-Np-UPQQwOkdg_Qyw==">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Q5peSBpot0ckiuVPg4gsk3FPYT9q0WU8bLDivtz-I0cCWhVnYTKCM6CXQ18eZkbcEA60P9l2zP6PcM2EivMClt37jhe5CtGgj6MCKMTPFIE68I5rQVgAt6Fb1Bz9nhwp0_wJf_GDubNx_zHMGwF5s6ualaaZfIe1&amp;c=MnICVt-fT8uoPYnAQf4dVz6oBYEvZ_-ts8NANaZ2nqmMQ7eBxy9Ekw==&amp;ch=zC-i9WtqM9zrgpCCO7MhTPTcrm3VIlEHY2jr9-Np-UPQQwOkdg_Qyw==">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Q5peSBpot0ckiuVPg4gsk3FPYT9q0WU8bLDivtz-I0cCWhVnYTKCMzUVC_4s01fmlbOBy9bVwqr1UjmAZm9_PyXDMcYshBR1__ms56nwKY5DRLiTqgMsRF_Q7fxdCYtpKQ6NpzJOreHWWaGLyXSuUUK8coT8plM0&amp;c=MnICVt-fT8uoPYnAQf4dVz6oBYEvZ_-ts8NANaZ2nqmMQ7eBxy9Ekw==&amp;ch=zC-i9WtqM9zrgpCCO7MhTPTcrm3VIlEHY2jr9-Np-UPQQwOkdg_Qyw==">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Day 11, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

From all of us at Eagle Radio and Great Bend Post, have a safe and happy 4th of July!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593630076966.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From all of us at Eagle Radio and Great Bend Post, have a safe and happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July from Eagle Radio

It’s a sign of the season – political campaigning and the posting of campaign signs. The Kansas Department of Transportation reminds the public that all political campaign signs or billboards are prohibited from being placed on state highway right of way.

By law, all right of way on state highways is exclusively for public highway purposes. Only regulatory, guide signs and warning signs placed by KDOT are allowed on the 9,500-mile state highway system. KDOT has jurisdiction over all interstate, Kansas and U.S. routes.

When KDOT maintenance crews find political signs on state highway right of way, the signs will be removed immediately and without notice. All such signs will then be taken to the closest KDOT Subarea office. Political campaign signs not retrieved from the Subarea offices will be disposed of after the election.

Political campaign advertising is allowed on private property bordering state right of way. However, people placing or erecting signs on private property must first obtain permission from the property owner.

A state law passed in 2015 related to placement of campaign signs on city- or county-owned right of way does not apply to state highway right of way. Persons placing signs on city street or county road right of way should consult the local jurisdiction on any rules.

It’s a sign of the season – political campaigning and the posting of campaign signs. The Kansas Department of Transportation reminds the public that all political campaign signs or billboards are prohibited from being placed on state highway right of way.By law, all right of way on state highways is exclusively for public highway purposes. Only regulatory, guide signs and warning signs placed by KDOT are allowed on the 9,500-mile state highway system. KDOT has jurisdiction over all interstate, Kansas and U.S. routes.When KDOT maintenance crews find political signs on state highway right of way, the signs will be removed immediately and without notice. All such signs will then be taken to the closest KDOT Subarea office. Political campaign signs not retrieved from the Subarea offices will be disposed of after the election.Political campaign advertising is allowed on private property bordering state right of way. However, people placing or erecting signs on private property must first obtain permission from the property owner.A state law passed in 2015 related to placement of campaign signs on city- or county-owned right of way does not apply to state highway right of way. Persons placing signs on city street or county road right of way should consult the local jurisdiction on any rules.

Political signs not allowed on highway right of way

From Eagle Radio and Great Bend Post, thank you to all the military men and women serving our country!<div><iframe src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d3CEsFTmZE1qK2IKorP0YGP-l1VZ3JtQ/preview" width="640" height="480" allow="autoplay"></iframe></div>

On June 28, at approximately 9:09 p.m., an officer with the Great Bend Police Department observed Joshua Kelly, age 25, in the 3300 block of 10th&nbsp;Street. The officer attempted to contact Kelly to place him under arrest on two outstanding Barton County District Court warrants for probation violation. 

Kelly ran from the officer on foot, and was taken into custody in the 900 block of Harrison Street a short time later. Kelly was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. He was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked in lieu of a $10,000 bond for the narcotics violation and no bond for the two Barton County District Court probation violation warrants.

If anyone has information regarding these crimes or any other crime, 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/2024/7/1720023369376.jpeg" alt="Joshua Kelly" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>On June 28, at approximately 9:09 p.m., an officer with the Great Bend Police Department observed Joshua Kelly, age 25, in the 3300 block of 10th&nbsp;Street. The officer attempted to contact Kelly to place him under arrest on two outstanding Barton County District Court warrants for probation violation. Kelly ran from the officer on foot, and was taken into custody in the 900 block of Harrison Street a short time later. Kelly was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. He was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked in lieu of a $10,000 bond for the narcotics violation and no bond for the two Barton County District Court probation violation warrants.If anyone has information regarding these crimes or any other crime, 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.

Man arrested for drugs after running from Great Bend police

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with USD 428, will host the 9th&nbsp;Annual Great Bend Business Showcase. This teacher appreciation event will take place Thursday, Aug. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Panther Activity Center (PAC) at Great Bend High School and&nbsp;will be open to 700+ educators and staff.

This exhibit opportunity is available to members of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, as well as non-members. Registration is $50 for Chamber members and $100 for non-members. Registration will reserve an exhibit space with one, six-foot table and two chairs.&nbsp;

This event gives businesses an opportunity to showcase their products and services to the 700+ employees of the&nbsp;school&nbsp;district,&nbsp;while expressing appreciation for the dedication shown by the teachers and staff as they kick-off the school year.

Premiere Booth:&nbsp;$150 for a Premiere Booth. These booths are strategically placed throughout the PAC with your business's logo on the passport (educators need to have each of the premiere booth stamps on the passport to be entered to win a prize), your logo is added to the website, and the logo/recognition on the map all educators receive.&nbsp;Limited to 10 spots.

The&nbsp;deadline&nbsp;for booth reservations is Aug. 1 at 5 p.m.&nbsp;

<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=787237&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1824432&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2F2024-business-showcase-13729%3FcalendarMonth%3D2024-08-01&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=a3d8da788207a584464b0d6478b0aaf83b87f32c2b12b9c4978790a29d40dc22">Reserve A Booth</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659019195670.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with USD 428, will host the 9th&nbsp;Annual Great Bend Business Showcase. This teacher appreciation event will take place Thursday, Aug. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Panther Activity Center (PAC) at Great Bend High School and&nbsp;will be open to 700+ educators and staff.This exhibit opportunity is available to members of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, as well as non-members. Registration is $50 for Chamber members and $100 for non-members. Registration will reserve an exhibit space with one, six-foot table and two chairs.&nbsp;This event gives businesses an opportunity to showcase their products and services to the 700+ employees of the&nbsp;school&nbsp;district,&nbsp;while expressing appreciation for the dedication shown by the teachers and staff as they kick-off the school year.Premiere Booth:&nbsp;$150 for a Premiere Booth. These booths are strategically placed throughout the PAC with your business's logo on the passport (educators need to have each of the premiere booth stamps on the passport to be entered to win a prize), your logo is added to the website, and the logo/recognition on the map all educators receive.&nbsp;Limited to 10 spots.The&nbsp;deadline&nbsp;for booth reservations is Aug. 1 at 5 p.m.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Set-Up: The PAC will be open starting Wednesday, 8/7, 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Thursday, 8/8,&nbsp;7:00&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;for exhibitors to begin setting up their tables. Multiple doors will be open and accessible to ease move-in traffic flow.&nbsp; </li>
 </ul><a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=787237&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1824432&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fmembers.greatbend.org%2Fevents%2Fdetails%2F2024-business-showcase-13729%3FcalendarMonth%3D2024-08-01&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=a3d8da788207a584464b0d6478b0aaf83b87f32c2b12b9c4978790a29d40dc22">Reserve A Booth</a>

Business Showcase returning for Great Bend area teachers

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes that aired July 3, 2024.

The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes that aired July 3, 2024.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes" 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=v98sp-165b165-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 City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Community Coordinator Hayes

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

In the most recent Kids Count report, organized by the Annie E. Casey
Foundation, statistics were revealed that 69% of fourth-graders in Kansas were
not proficient in reading. Similar declining numbers were found in math
results. 

While some of the decline was seen prior to the COVID pandemic, a
lingering effect of staying at home and altered coursework during shutdowns is
still making an impact as children get older, eventually showing up at the
college level. 

Barton Community College Vice President of Instruction Elaine
Simmons said while COVID had a role, how we use English and reading has changed
too.


"How we use the language in everyday life has changed," said Simmons. "The use of social media and technology devices...I think it's a combination of things that are bringing forward individuals that writing and reading are not as commonplace."

Barton Vice President of Student Services Angie Maddy said the college’s
testing coordinator has seen consistent lower scores from local high school
students in English and reading.


"It's such a focus thing to go out to an area high school where you're testing sophomores, juniors and seniors who maybe want to take a class with Barton in the upcoming year," said Maddy. "It's targeted, but you walk away and go 'wow', the English and reading scores are lower than they have been here. When you see that a few schools, you think maybe it's those schools, but every time the coordinator has been coming back she has been saying it's continuing."

Out of the 50-state assessment, the Kids Count report ranked Kansas 19th
overall on education, economics, health and family conditions relevant to
raising a child.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677252979805.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn the most recent Kids Count report, organized by the Annie E. Casey
Foundation, statistics were revealed that 69% of fourth-graders in Kansas were
not proficient in reading. Similar declining numbers were found in math
results. While some of the decline was seen prior to the COVID pandemic, a
lingering effect of staying at home and altered coursework during shutdowns is
still making an impact as children get older, eventually showing up at the
college level. Barton Community College Vice President of Instruction Elaine
Simmons said while COVID had a role, how we use English and reading has changed
too.
"How we use the language in everyday life has changed," said Simmons. "The use of social media and technology devices...I think it's a combination of things that are bringing forward individuals that writing and reading are not as commonplace."Barton Vice President of Student Services Angie Maddy said the college’s
testing coordinator has seen consistent lower scores from local high school
students in English and reading.
"It's such a focus thing to go out to an area high school where you're testing sophomores, juniors and seniors who maybe want to take a class with Barton in the upcoming year," said Maddy. "It's targeted, but you walk away and go 'wow', the English and reading scores are lower than they have been here. When you see that a few schools, you think maybe it's those schools, but every time the coordinator has been coming back she has been saying it's continuing."Out of the 50-state assessment, the Kids Count report ranked Kansas 19th
overall on education, economics, health and family conditions relevant to
raising a child.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton CC monitoring lingering COVID effect in English scores

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of McCracken public water supply system located in Rush County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:&nbsp;

The advisory took effect on July 3, 2024, and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of water line break resulting in low pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination.

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.&nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-394-2209 or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.lkoRolycZBPGvP-pCDbU1WdMzxpVqOzAcbMKr0EURSQ/s/1305943097/br/245187988433-l">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of McCracken public water supply system located in Rush County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on July 3, 2024, and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of water line break resulting in low pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination.Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.&nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-394-2209 or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.lkoRolycZBPGvP-pCDbU1WdMzxpVqOzAcbMKr0EURSQ/s/1305943097/br/245187988433-l">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boil water advisory issued for McCracken in Rush County

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/2)

At 2:26 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 11th &amp;
Frey.

At 5:27 p.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at 79
NE 25 Roady.

At 5:33 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2715 18th
Street.

At 10:47 p.m. a fight was reported at 10th &amp;
Harding.

At 11:19 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 24th
&amp; Washington.

At 11:25 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 10 block
of NE 20 Avenue.

At 11:57 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th
&amp; Washington.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (7/2)

At 6:03 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1404 21st
Street.

At 9:14 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1303 Baker.

At 9:18 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th &amp;
Kiowa Road.

At 10:26 a.m. the K-9 was called out to Forest &amp;
Harrison.

At 12:23 p.m. a battery was reported at 3413 10th
Street.

At 12:42 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 1900 block
of Morton Street.

At 12:52 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 1900 block of
Morton.

At 1:04 p.m. Mike Johnson reported an accident at 4107 10th
Street.

At 1:31 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 10th
&amp; Frey.

At 1:49 p.m. a K-9 call out was reported at 10th
&amp; Washington.

At 2:02 p.m. a K-9 call out was reported at 22nd
&amp; McCormick Street.

At 3:02 p.m. a parking complaint was reported at 2925 27th
Street.

At 5:06 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1500 Lakin.

At 6:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Harrison.

At 11:19 p.m. Kyle Stout reported James Blake ramming into
his vehicle at 24th &amp; Washington. Blake was arrested for DUI.

At 11:37 p.m. Cella Wedahl reported a husky mix at large at
1600 Broadway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/2)K-9 Use / Call OutAt 2:26 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 11th &amp;
Frey.Unconscious / FaintingAt 5:27 p.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at 79
NE 25 Roady.Animal ComplaintAt 5:33 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2715 18th
Street.FightAt 10:47 p.m. a fight was reported at 10th &amp;
Harding.Criminal DamageAt 11:19 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 24th
&amp; Washington.Traffic ArrestAt 11:25 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 10 block
of NE 20 Avenue.Non-Injury AccidentAt 11:57 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th
&amp; Washington.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (7/2)FallsAt 6:03 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1404 21st
Street.Sick PersonAt 9:14 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1303 Baker.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 9:18 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 10th &amp;
Kiowa Road.At 10:26 a.m. the K-9 was called out to Forest &amp;
Harrison.BatteryAt 12:23 p.m. a battery was reported at 3413 10th
Street.Traffic ArrestAt 12:42 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 1900 block
of Morton Street.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 12:52 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 1900 block of
Morton.Non-Injury AccidentAt 1:04 p.m. Mike Johnson reported an accident at 4107 10th
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 1:31 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 10th
&amp; Frey.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 1:49 p.m. a K-9 call out was reported at 10th
&amp; Washington.At 2:02 p.m. a K-9 call out was reported at 22nd
&amp; McCormick Street.Parking ComplaintAt 3:02 p.m. a parking complaint was reported at 2925 27th
Street.Traumatic InjuriesAt 5:06 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1500 Lakin.Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Harrison.Criminal DamageAt 11:19 p.m. Kyle Stout reported James Blake ramming into
his vehicle at 24th &amp; Washington. Blake was arrested for DUI.Animal ComplaintAt 11:37 p.m. Cella Wedahl reported a husky mix at large at
1600 Broadway.

Cop Shop (7/2)

7/2 BOOKED: Marvin Magnuson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Paul Pryor on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Registration, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Darrin Halzle on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and Sunscreening Device, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Kristopher Clone on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Adyn Haines on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: David Ramos-Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Driving with No License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Paul Pryor on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Registration, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Craig Gowdy on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Emilio Sheets on KDOC warrant, to KDOC.

RELEASED: Austin Amos on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Darrin Halzle on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and Sunscreening Device, after posting a $500 cash bond.

RELEASED: Kristopher Clone on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Adyn Haines on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/2 BOOKED: Marvin Magnuson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Paul Pryor on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Registration, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Darrin Halzle on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and Sunscreening Device, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Kristopher Clone on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Adyn Haines on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: David Ramos-Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Driving with No License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Paul Pryor on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Registration, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Craig Gowdy on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Emilio Sheets on KDOC warrant, to KDOC.RELEASED: Austin Amos on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Darrin Halzle on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and Sunscreening Device, after posting a $500 cash bond.RELEASED: Kristopher Clone on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Adyn Haines on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (7/2)

Summer is here, and with the sun and fun come plenty of safety hazards. As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, there are additional risks if you choose to celebrate with fireworks. However, the holiday doesn’t have to be hazardous if you know what dangers to watch for and how to avoid them.

Thousands of people are injured by fireworks every year badly enough to need medical attention, and most of those injuries could have been prevented. The most common injuries are burns to the hands, arms or face, and eye injuries.

Peter Mick, APRN in The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus Emergency Department, offers these tips to help you prevent injuries to yourself and those around you:

· Do not allow children to light fireworks. · Closely supervise children around fireworks . · Educate children about the dangers of fireworks. · Maintain a safe distance from fireworks. · Never shoot fireworks toward people. · Keep a bucket of water nearby. · Have a well-stocked first-aid kit handy. · Soak spent and unused fireworks well before discarding.

If an injury from fireworks occurs, remember: · Stop the burning process. · Use cool – not cold or icy – water to help cool the burn. · Keep the burned area covered. · Do not pop blisters that develop.

If an eye injury occurs: · Don’t rub your eyes. · Don’t rinse your eyes. · Don’t apply pressure to your eyes. · Don’t remove objects stuck in the eye.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719842334358.jpeg" alt="Peter Mick, APRN" />
 <figcaption>Peter Mick, APRN</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSSummer is here, and with the sun and fun come plenty of safety hazards. As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, there are additional risks if you choose to celebrate with fireworks. However, the holiday doesn’t have to be hazardous if you know what dangers to watch for and how to avoid them.Thousands of people are injured by fireworks every year badly enough to need medical attention, and most of those injuries could have been prevented. The most common injuries are burns to the hands, arms or face, and eye injuries.Peter Mick, APRN in The University of Kansas Health System Great Bend Campus Emergency Department, offers these tips to help you prevent injuries to yourself and those around you:· Do not allow children to light fireworks. · Closely supervise children around fireworks . · Educate children about the dangers of fireworks. · Maintain a safe distance from fireworks. · Never shoot fireworks toward people. · Keep a bucket of water nearby. · Have a well-stocked first-aid kit handy. · Soak spent and unused fireworks well before discarding.If an injury from fireworks occurs, remember: · Stop the burning process. · Use cool – not cold or icy – water to help cool the burn. · Keep the burned area covered. · Do not pop blisters that develop.If an eye injury occurs: · Don’t rub your eyes. · Don’t rinse your eyes. · Don’t apply pressure to your eyes. · Don’t remove objects stuck in the eye.· Seek medical attention immediately.

University of Kansas Health System: Safety while using fireworks

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

According to the Small Business Administration, the survival rate for a business after 10 years is just 30 percent. Great Bend Coffee has beat the odds. LaResa and Eugene Likes purchased the establishment from Paul and Barb Wagner nine years ago. After putting their own touches on the popular eatery and building a loyal fan base, it's time to move on. LaResa recently announced her plans to sell the business.

"I need some family time," she said. "My family is my passion. I have six kids, 18 grandkids, and the 19th one is due next week. They have ballgames and stuff, and I don't get to go to anything because I'm open six days a week and I'm the cook. Everybody says, 'You can hire somebody to do that,' but it isn't the same. I'm very picky. I want it to go out right."

LaResa grew up in St. John, spent 25 years in Belpre, and has spent the last 25 years in Great Bend. Nine years ago, she decided to turn her love of baking into a business. 

"I was trying to buy another restaurant in Larned but the bank said no because it had already failed four times and they didn't want to set me up for failure," she said. "The realtor asked if I'd been to Great Bend Coffee. I told her I didn't drink coffee so why go in a coffee shop? I came down and saw what they had. It wasn't just coffee."

The Likes purchased the business. LaResa did the baking and Eugene did the cooking. The emphasis was on keeping everything made from scratch. LaResa revamped the menu in the restaurant with colored chalk on a large wall so everyone could see the various coffees, sandwiches, baked goods, and pizzas available.

"Paul and Barb had gone to Italy, and those were names of towns they had seen," LaResa said. "That's where the names all came from. I added a few things to it and changed the bread recipe to make it mine."

Health issues snuck up on Eugene and he was no longer able to do the cooking. Even with more than a dozen staff, LaResa usually puts 12-14 hour days into the business, arriving by 6 a.m. six days a week to do all the baking. The hard work has paid off with relationships with teachers, courthouse staff, various clubs, and the many other regulars who visit.

"I will miss the people," LaResa said. "It's always been about the people. I love making somebody happy. They're all just part of my family here. Everybody comes and says, 'You can't do this. You can't sell it.' But they understand."

Part of Great Bend Coffee's appeal, other than the food and coffee, is the atmosphere. Patrons bring in their own coffee cups. Kids have a place to play in the back. Everything is geared toward togetherness.

"I want people to come in and feel like they're at home," LaResa said. "We don't have TVs. We have radio and it's back in the kitchen, basically for us. People want to visit. They want to be able to hear each other talk. The radios were a distraction."

It's never been about the money for LaResa, but it is a business. She believes there are plenty of opportunities for a buyer to expand business ventures with the future opening of the Graystone event space above Great Bend Coffee and the success of Dry Lake Brewing across the street.

"I hope they want to keep it as a coffee shop," she said. "I'll sell the name and everything with it, and they can change it up and add more things. It has potential to grow. You can buddy up with the brewery and be their food truck. I'm not open in the evenings. I don't have enough hours in my day. But if somebody had a second person, they could keep it open all day."

Great Bend Coffee is now for sale but it is not in danger of closing. LaResa plans to keep it business as usual until a buyer comes along - and beyond if necessary.

"I will stay and train with them as long as they need me," she said. "I will not leave someone to die in the dirt. I don't want to set anyone up to fail. It's a working business and it does do well."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719583665620.jpeg" alt="LaResa and Eugene Likes recently announced their intent to sell Great Bend Coffee after nine years of building the brand in downtown Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>LaResa and Eugene Likes recently announced their intent to sell Great Bend Coffee after nine years of building the brand in downtown Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAccording to the Small Business Administration, the survival rate for a business after 10 years is just 30 percent. Great Bend Coffee has beat the odds. LaResa and Eugene Likes purchased the establishment from Paul and Barb Wagner nine years ago. After putting their own touches on the popular eatery and building a loyal fan base, it's time to move on. LaResa recently announced her plans to sell the business."I need some family time," she said. "My family is my passion. I have six kids, 18 grandkids, and the 19th one is due next week. They have ballgames and stuff, and I don't get to go to anything because I'm open six days a week and I'm the cook. Everybody says, 'You can hire somebody to do that,' but it isn't the same. I'm very picky. I want it to go out right."LaResa grew up in St. John, spent 25 years in Belpre, and has spent the last 25 years in Great Bend. Nine years ago, she decided to turn her love of baking into a business. "I was trying to buy another restaurant in Larned but the bank said no because it had already failed four times and they didn't want to set me up for failure," she said. "The realtor asked if I'd been to Great Bend Coffee. I told her I didn't drink coffee so why go in a coffee shop? I came down and saw what they had. It wasn't just coffee."The Likes purchased the business. LaResa did the baking and Eugene did the cooking. The emphasis was on keeping everything made from scratch. LaResa revamped the menu in the restaurant with colored chalk on a large wall so everyone could see the various coffees, sandwiches, baked goods, and pizzas available."Paul and Barb had gone to Italy, and those were names of towns they had seen," LaResa said. "That's where the names all came from. I added a few things to it and changed the bread recipe to make it mine."Health issues snuck up on Eugene and he was no longer able to do the cooking. Even with more than a dozen staff, LaResa usually puts 12-14 hour days into the business, arriving by 6 a.m. six days a week to do all the baking. The hard work has paid off with relationships with teachers, courthouse staff, various clubs, and the many other regulars who visit."I will miss the people," LaResa said. "It's always been about the people. I love making somebody happy. They're all just part of my family here. Everybody comes and says, 'You can't do this. You can't sell it.' But they understand."Part of Great Bend Coffee's appeal, other than the food and coffee, is the atmosphere. Patrons bring in their own coffee cups. Kids have a place to play in the back. Everything is geared toward togetherness."I want people to come in and feel like they're at home," LaResa said. "We don't have TVs. We have radio and it's back in the kitchen, basically for us. People want to visit. They want to be able to hear each other talk. The radios were a distraction."It's never been about the money for LaResa, but it is a business. She believes there are plenty of opportunities for a buyer to expand business ventures with the future opening of the Graystone event space above Great Bend Coffee and the success of Dry Lake Brewing across the street."I hope they want to keep it as a coffee shop," she said. "I'll sell the name and everything with it, and they can change it up and add more things. It has potential to grow. You can buddy up with the brewery and be their food truck. I'm not open in the evenings. I don't have enough hours in my day. But if somebody had a second person, they could keep it open all day."Great Bend Coffee is now for sale but it is not in danger of closing. LaResa plans to keep it business as usual until a buyer comes along - and beyond if necessary."I will stay and train with them as long as they need me," she said. "I will not leave someone to die in the dirt. I don't want to set anyone up to fail. It's a working business and it does do well."

Not done yet: Great Bend Coffee staying open until new buyer found

Today Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79. East wind 6 to 13 mph becoming south-southeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Tonight A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. Southeast wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north-northwest in the evening.

Independence Day A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 8 to 17 mph becoming north in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60. North wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

FridaySunny, with a high near 85. North-northwest wind 7 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 61.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 89.

Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 66.

Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.

Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 85.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 63.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 89.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79. East wind 6 to 13 mph becoming south-southeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Tonight A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. Southeast wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north-northwest in the evening.Independence Day A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 8 to 17 mph becoming north in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60. North wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.FridaySunny, with a high near 85. North-northwest wind 7 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 61.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 89.Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 66.Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.Monday Sunny, with a high near 85.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 63.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 89.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

Air conditioner issues have forced the Great Bend Public Library to be
closed the past few days. Already replacing a pump, technicians believe the
heat exchanger is now the source of the problem.


The City of Great Bend has a strong interest in maintenance and infrastructure
at the library because the city’s agreement is to pay for any capital or
expense over $5,000. Councilmember Alan Moeder said he has an issue with the
current contract with the library, specifically since the city did not have a
role in the HVAC system the library chose.


"They went with a very high efficiency system which is really great when it works," said Moeder. "In my field, when they go down, it's very expensive to fix. We didn't get a choice in what they picked, so I have a problem in us having to pay for their maintenance. I think we need to look at their contract."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657069429840.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAir conditioner issues have forced the Great Bend Public Library to be
closed the past few days. Already replacing a pump, technicians believe the
heat exchanger is now the source of the problem.
The City of Great Bend has a strong interest in maintenance and infrastructure
at the library because the city’s agreement is to pay for any capital or
expense over $5,000. Councilmember Alan Moeder said he has an issue with the
current contract with the library, specifically since the city did not have a
role in the HVAC system the library chose.
"They went with a very high efficiency system which is really great when it works," said Moeder. "In my field, when they go down, it's very expensive to fix. We didn't get a choice in what they picked, so I have a problem in us having to pay for their maintenance. I think we need to look at their contract."Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson said Library Director Maribeth
Shafer is working to get a quote for the expense. In the meantime, the library
has been too hot for staff or patrons at this time.
"During budget discussions with Maribeth, we asked her to put a capital improvement plan together for the library," said Anderson. "She's done that. I know a rough draft will go to her board at their next meeting."After receiving $650,000 in this year’s budget, the library requested an additional
$50,000 from the city for the library’s 2025 budget.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/817a7f8c-6023-4e92-b10b-651b175d5a7a">RELATED STORY: Great Bend library requesting 7.7% city budget increase</a>"I have found out through my work it ends up costing you more money with the system they have because maintenance is so high to fix stuff than what you think you're saving," said Moeder.