By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Great Bend Police Department will receive new vehicle and body-worn
cameras after the Great Bend City Council approved a $187,846 purchase from
Digital Ally.


Great Bend Police has deployed in-car cameras since 2006 and body-worn cameras
since 2014. The current cameras are becoming obsolete and are nearing their end
of life. Police Chief Steve Haulmark received bids from Digital Ally and Axon,
with the Digital Ally bid coming in nearly $70,000 cheaper.


"These two companies, and Motorola, are the three big companies being utilized," said Haulmark. "We have spoken to different agencies that use both of the two systems. There's pros and cons to both sides. Overall, folks are happy with Digital Ally and we've been happy with their customer service for the past 10 years."

The bid is for a five-year contract with the company based out of Lenexa,
Kansas. The Police Department has $65,000 funded for cameras through fiscal
year 2025 and were approved an additional $35,000 per budget year through 2029.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728486770255.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Police Department will receive new vehicle and body-worn
cameras after the Great Bend City Council approved a $187,846 purchase from
Digital Ally.
Great Bend Police has deployed in-car cameras since 2006 and body-worn cameras
since 2014. The current cameras are becoming obsolete and are nearing their end
of life. Police Chief Steve Haulmark received bids from Digital Ally and Axon,
with the Digital Ally bid coming in nearly $70,000 cheaper.
"These two companies, and Motorola, are the three big companies being utilized," said Haulmark. "We have spoken to different agencies that use both of the two systems. There's pros and cons to both sides. Overall, folks are happy with Digital Ally and we've been happy with their customer service for the past 10 years."The bid is for a five-year contract with the company based out of Lenexa,
Kansas. The Police Department has $65,000 funded for cameras through fiscal
year 2025 and were approved an additional $35,000 per budget year through 2029.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Police to receive new vehicle/body cameras

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (10/10)

At 12:21 p.m. a fire was reported at 379 NW 40 Road.

At 12:53 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Kansas.

At 3:50 p.m. a gunshot wound was reported at 161 SW 10
Avenue.

At 4:27 p.m. heart problems were reported at 14 SE 35
Avenue.

At 7:31 p.m. a theft was reported at 1845 NE 130 Avenue in
Claflin.

At 7:48 p.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at 612 Windmill
Ln.

At 10:09 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 3 NW 90 Road in
Hoisington.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (10/10)

At 12:40 a.m. a noise complaint from a vehicle was reported
at 3065 Hickory.

At 10:12 a.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 2212
Forest.

At 3:09 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 514 Cleveland.

At 3:57 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

At 6:22 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1419
Broadway.

At 7:10 p.m. an accident was reported at 2027 Morton.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (10/10)FireAt 12:21 p.m. a fire was reported at 379 NW 40 Road.Injury AccidentAt 12:53 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Kansas.Gunshot WoundAt 3:50 p.m. a gunshot wound was reported at 161 SW 10
Avenue.Heart ProblemsAt 4:27 p.m. heart problems were reported at 14 SE 35
Avenue.TheftAt 7:31 p.m. a theft was reported at 1845 NE 130 Avenue in
Claflin.Gas Leak / SpillAt 7:48 p.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at 612 Windmill
Ln.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 10:09 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 3 NW 90 Road in
Hoisington.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (10/10)Noise ComplaintAt 12:40 a.m. a noise complaint from a vehicle was reported
at 3065 Hickory.Missing Person / RunawayAt 10:12 a.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 2212
Forest.Injury AccidentAt 12:53 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Kansas.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:09 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 514 Cleveland.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:57 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 6:22 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1419
Broadway.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:10 p.m. an accident was reported at 2027 Morton.

Cop Shop (10/10)

10/10 BOOKED: Lia Weber on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Ashlynn Hamby-Raya on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on three Barton and Russell County District Court warrants for Failure to Appear, bond set at $4,500 C/S and $471 cash only; and on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $600 cash only.

BOOKED: Destiny Hayward on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Miranda Taylor on Stafford County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: James Skinner on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

RELEASED: Isabel Leal on Barton County District Court cases, to KDOC.

RELEASED: Destiny Hayward on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Ryan Rinke Jr. on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>10/10 BOOKED: Lia Weber on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Ashlynn Hamby-Raya on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on three Barton and Russell County District Court warrants for Failure to Appear, bond set at $4,500 C/S and $471 cash only; and on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $600 cash only.BOOKED: Destiny Hayward on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,000 C/S.BOOKED: Cassius Russel on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Miranda Taylor on Stafford County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: James Skinner on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.RELEASED: Isabel Leal on Barton County District Court cases, to KDOC.RELEASED: Destiny Hayward on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Ryan Rinke Jr. on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (10/10)

Three of the larger, or more trafficked, streets in Great Bend are
undergoing repairs. In September, the Great Bend City Council approved a
$938,900 project to include 13 blocks of asphalt resurfacing. 

City
Administrator Logan Burns said work started Monday and will continue for at
least two weeks.


"Venture came out and began work on Harrison Street, 24th Street and the 281 Bypass," said Burns. "They're doing patching on the project then they'll start paving."

Venture submitted the lone bid for the city’s 2024 street resurfacing project.


On the 281 Bypass, work will stretch from 10th to Main. On 24th
Street, the project goes from the Bypass to McCormick Street. On Harrison
Street, work goes from 10th to Broadway. Flaggers have been
situated at certain intersections to guide motorists.


The project is paid for through the quarter-cent sales tax.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728506624565.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThree of the larger, or more trafficked, streets in Great Bend are
undergoing repairs. In September, the Great Bend City Council approved a
$938,900 project to include 13 blocks of asphalt resurfacing. City
Administrator Logan Burns said work started Monday and will continue for at
least two weeks.
"Venture came out and began work on Harrison Street, 24th Street and the 281 Bypass," said Burns. "They're doing patching on the project then they'll start paving."Venture submitted the lone bid for the city’s 2024 street resurfacing project.
On the 281 Bypass, work will stretch from 10th to Main. On 24th
Street, the project goes from the Bypass to McCormick Street. On Harrison
Street, work goes from 10th to Broadway. Flaggers have been
situated at certain intersections to guide motorists.
The project is paid for through the quarter-cent sales tax.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Resurfacing work continues on popular Great Bend streets

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Great Bend High School senior Diego Pasos can sleep during the winter. A dual-sport athlete, playing midfield for the Panther soccer team and running for the cross country team, Pasos recently had a weekend to remember. On Friday, Sept. 27, he was named Fall Homecoming King alongside Queen Addie Irwin. The next morning, he led the Panther cross country team at Rim Rock Farm just outside Lawrence three hours away.

"It was just so surreal," Pasos said. "I was happy. I was on Homecoming court my freshman year. Addy and I made a joke saying we'd be king and queen our senior year but we didn't actually expect it to happen."

Most of the cross country runners traveled as a team Friday because of the long drive and an early start on Saturday, especially on the girls' side. Pasos was able to enjoy his Friday evening and a big win by the Panther football team before he and his parents hit the road early the next morning.

"I had packed the night before and we headed out at four or five in the morning," he said. "I made sure to sleep the whole way there so I was rested for the run. It was just taking my warm-up seriously that morning because I knew I was out late the night before."

Despite running in his first race at the famous Rim Rock Farm, Pasos ran four seconds faster than any of his teammates to finish 125th overall in 18:36.6.

Pasos and teammates also shared success on the track this spring. Running with variations of teammates Ismael Ramirez, Tavon Stroup, Braylon Moore, and Alex Galindo, the 4x800m relay team won a Western Athletic Conference Championship, a Class 5A regional championship, and finished 10th at the state meet in Wichita to miss a medal by two placings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728497013941.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School seniors Diego Pasos and Addy Irwin were named Fall Homecoming King and Queen on Sept. 27. Less than 12 hours later, Pasos led the Panther cross country team at Rim Rock Farm outside Lawrence." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School seniors Diego Pasos and Addy Irwin were named Fall Homecoming King and Queen on Sept. 27. Less than 12 hours later, Pasos led the Panther cross country team at Rim Rock Farm outside Lawrence.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostGreat Bend High School senior Diego Pasos can sleep during the winter. A dual-sport athlete, playing midfield for the Panther soccer team and running for the cross country team, Pasos recently had a weekend to remember. On Friday, Sept. 27, he was named Fall Homecoming King alongside Queen Addie Irwin. The next morning, he led the Panther cross country team at Rim Rock Farm just outside Lawrence three hours away."It was just so surreal," Pasos said. "I was happy. I was on Homecoming court my freshman year. Addy and I made a joke saying we'd be king and queen our senior year but we didn't actually expect it to happen."Most of the cross country runners traveled as a team Friday because of the long drive and an early start on Saturday, especially on the girls' side. Pasos was able to enjoy his Friday evening and a big win by the Panther football team before he and his parents hit the road early the next morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728497096058.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"I had packed the night before and we headed out at four or five in the morning," he said. "I made sure to sleep the whole way there so I was rested for the run. It was just taking my warm-up seriously that morning because I knew I was out late the night before."Despite running in his first race at the famous Rim Rock Farm, Pasos ran four seconds faster than any of his teammates to finish 125th overall in 18:36.6.Pasos and teammates also shared success on the track this spring. Running with variations of teammates Ismael Ramirez, Tavon Stroup, Braylon Moore, and Alex Galindo, the 4x800m relay team won a Western Athletic Conference Championship, a Class 5A regional championship, and finished 10th at the state meet in Wichita to miss a medal by two placings.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728497129721.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Midfielder, runner, king: Pasos serving three roles at Great Bend High School

Today Sunny, with a high near 90. South wind 6 to 8 mph.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 56. South-southeast wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 92. West-southwest wind 3 to 7 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 54. North-northeast wind 6 to 8 mph.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. North-northeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 42.

Columbus Day Sunny, with a high near 68.

Monday Night Clear, with a low around 40.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68.

Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 44.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 78. Breezy.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 57.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 84. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 90. South wind 6 to 8 mph.Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 56. South-southeast wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 92. West-southwest wind 3 to 7 mph.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 54. North-northeast wind 6 to 8 mph.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. North-northeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 42.Columbus Day Sunny, with a high near 68.Monday Night Clear, with a low around 40.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68.Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 44.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 78. Breezy.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 57.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 84. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

FUEL Barton County (formerly Barton County Young Professionals) invites everyone to the annual Fall Fest on Sunday, Oct. 13, from 5:00-7:00 PM at Long’s Pumpkin Patch. Enjoy fall favorites like a corn maze, pumpkin patch, face painting, a family photo booth, and a Walking Taco and Fall Trail Mix Bar. Kids can also participate in games with prizes!

“We are excited to bring together families for this year’s Fall Fest,” said Callie Miller, Steering Committee President. “We’re introducing new things like free Walking Tacos and kids’ games. This is a perfect opportunity to connect, unwind, and celebrate the season with family and friends.”

Families will receive goodie bags and have access to the patch’s wagons and tools to select the perfect gourd. Don’t miss the pick-your-own raspberries and blackberries, gourd launcher, culvert swing, and corn pit!

Special thanks to The University of Kansas Health System for sponsoring this event making it free to attend.

FUEL Barton County, a program of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, empowers emerging leaders. Connect with us on Facebook or visit greatbend.org for more detail

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728402826694.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...FUEL Barton County (formerly Barton County Young Professionals) invites everyone to the annual Fall Fest on Sunday, Oct. 13, from 5:00-7:00 PM at Long’s Pumpkin Patch. Enjoy fall favorites like a corn maze, pumpkin patch, face painting, a family photo booth, and a Walking Taco and Fall Trail Mix Bar. Kids can also participate in games with prizes!“We are excited to bring together families for this year’s Fall Fest,” said Callie Miller, Steering Committee President. “We’re introducing new things like free Walking Tacos and kids’ games. This is a perfect opportunity to connect, unwind, and celebrate the season with family and friends.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728402856213.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Families will receive goodie bags and have access to the patch’s wagons and tools to select the perfect gourd. Don’t miss the pick-your-own raspberries and blackberries, gourd launcher, culvert swing, and corn pit!Special thanks to The University of Kansas Health System for sponsoring this event making it free to attend.FUEL Barton County, a program of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, empowers emerging leaders. Connect with us on Facebook or visit greatbend.org for more detail

FUEL Barton County Fall Fest: A family fun event

Watch Ignite KS 2024 Finals

Last month, USD 431 Hoisington announced a tentative Oct. 1 groundbreaking ceremony date for the new childcare facility, which will be located behind Roosevelt Elementary School where a modular building used to be positioned. During Monday's board of education meeting, Superintendent Patrick Crowdis offered the board a first reading of the contract with Advancing Barton County Childcare (ABCC) regarding the location of the new facility.

"We will be asking ABCC to pay us a dollar lease every year just because that's just legalese of having a contract," Crowdis said. "Other than that, they will take care of their own insurance, their own utilities. The building itself will be independent of us."

The primary purpose of that contract is to establish USD 431 as owners of the property on which the facility will sit. Crowdis said the contract also included various custodial items that were not set in stone. Monday's first read still allows time for board comments and suggestions.

"There is a portion of this that does go into if the daycare, or if ABCC were to close this facility, the district would have the right of first refusal," said Crowdis. "It would be appraised. We would have the right to then purchase that building for fair-market value simply because it does sit on our facilities."

Last month, Crowdis updated the board on the capacity of the facility. Originally expected to serve 59 children but funding cuts at the state level may reduce that figure to 38 children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702314809955.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLast month, USD 431 Hoisington announced a tentative Oct. 1 groundbreaking ceremony date for the new childcare facility, which will be located behind Roosevelt Elementary School where a modular building used to be positioned. During Monday's board of education meeting, Superintendent Patrick Crowdis offered the board a first reading of the contract with Advancing Barton County Childcare (ABCC) regarding the location of the new facility."We will be asking ABCC to pay us a dollar lease every year just because that's just legalese of having a contract," Crowdis said. "Other than that, they will take care of their own insurance, their own utilities. The building itself will be independent of us."The primary purpose of that contract is to establish USD 431 as owners of the property on which the facility will sit. Crowdis said the contract also included various custodial items that were not set in stone. Monday's first read still allows time for board comments and suggestions."There is a portion of this that does go into if the daycare, or if ABCC were to close this facility, the district would have the right of first refusal," said Crowdis. "It would be appraised. We would have the right to then purchase that building for fair-market value simply because it does sit on our facilities."Last month, Crowdis updated the board on the capacity of the facility. Originally expected to serve 59 children but funding cuts at the state level may reduce that figure to 38 children.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

School board discusses contract with new daycare facility in Hoisington

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Media's Cole Reif and Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark that aired Oct. 9, 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/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Media's Cole Reif and Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark that aired Oct. 9, 2024.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark" 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=qx9b9-17000dc-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 Police Chief Steve Haulmark

Great Bend High School (GBHS) wrapped up a successful Apply KS event during the Kansas Apply Free Days on October 8 and 9, helping seniors take a crucial step toward their college goals. Approximately 70 seniors visited with college representatives and submitted admission applications during the two-day event.

Organized to coincide with the statewide Kansas Apply Free Days, the event allowed students to apply to colleges without paying any application fees. Representatives from Barton Community College, Fort Hays State University, the University of Kansas, Pratt Community College, Kansas State University, and Salina Tech were present to provide guidance on programs, scholarships, and the application process.

“This event is important for seniors to get a jump start on their applications,” said Lacy Wolters, GBHS ACT &amp; Career Coordinator. “Many schools have fall and winter admission and scholarship deadlines, so applying now allows students time to complete all their college planning tasks before those deadlines. We’re thankful for the partnership of the college admissions reps who helped our students become college- and career-ready.”

GBHS staff also participated in the statewide #WhyApply social media campaign to encourage students to attend the event, apply early, and take advantage of the free application period.

For more information, please contact Lacy Wolters, Great Bend High School, at 620-793-1500.

About Kansas Apply Free Days Kansas Apply Free Days is an initiative designed to help Kansas residents apply to higher education institutions for free. From October 7-9, 2024, Kansas residents, regardless of age or income, can apply at no cost to any of the state's 7 public universities, 19 community colleges, 6 technical colleges, and the 21 private institutions in the Kansas Independent College Association. Eligible programs include general applications, certificate programs, associate degree programs, and bachelor's degree programs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728502471491.jpeg" alt="GBHS seniors worked hard at the library during the Apply KS event. These students are taking advantage of Kansas Apply Free Days to submit college applications with the support of school staff and college representatives." />
 <figcaption>GBHS seniors worked hard at the library during the Apply KS event. These students are taking advantage of Kansas Apply Free Days to submit college applications with the support of school staff and college representatives.</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend High School (GBHS) wrapped up a successful Apply KS event during the Kansas Apply Free Days on October 8 and 9, helping seniors take a crucial step toward their college goals. Approximately 70 seniors visited with college representatives and submitted admission applications during the two-day event.Organized to coincide with the statewide Kansas Apply Free Days, the event allowed students to apply to colleges without paying any application fees. Representatives from Barton Community College, Fort Hays State University, the University of Kansas, Pratt Community College, Kansas State University, and Salina Tech were present to provide guidance on programs, scholarships, and the application process.“This event is important for seniors to get a jump start on their applications,” said Lacy Wolters, GBHS ACT &amp; Career Coordinator. “Many schools have fall and winter admission and scholarship deadlines, so applying now allows students time to complete all their college planning tasks before those deadlines. We’re thankful for the partnership of the college admissions reps who helped our students become college- and career-ready.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728502549129.jpeg" alt="#WhyApply? “To make a difference in education.” GBHS Spanish Teacher Christina Ingram shares her motivation and selfie with GBHS students. She encourages seniors to take advantage of free application days by applying to college and/or technical school early." />
 <figcaption>#WhyApply? “To make a difference in education.” GBHS Spanish Teacher Christina Ingram shares her motivation and selfie with GBHS students. She encourages seniors to take advantage of free application days by applying to college and/or technical school early.</figcaption>
 </figure>GBHS staff also participated in the statewide #WhyApply social media campaign to encourage students to attend the event, apply early, and take advantage of the free application period.For more information, please contact Lacy Wolters, Great Bend High School, at 620-793-1500.About Kansas Apply Free Days Kansas Apply Free Days is an initiative designed to help Kansas residents apply to higher education institutions for free. From October 7-9, 2024, Kansas residents, regardless of age or income, can apply at no cost to any of the state's 7 public universities, 19 community colleges, 6 technical colleges, and the 21 private institutions in the Kansas Independent College Association. Eligible programs include general applications, certificate programs, associate degree programs, and bachelor's degree programs.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Great Bend High School hosts Apply KS event, students apply to college

The City of Great Bend’s self-funded health insurance plan continues to
be underfunded according to consulting company Gallagher. In response, the
Great Bend City Council voted Monday to approve 2025 health insurance rates
with a 9% increase to city and employee cost. 

Mike Minton, with Gallagher, said
the city’s reserve funds had more than $2 million in 2020. That number is now
down to just over $1.3 million.


"One of the biggest things is the funding has not gone up with the trends that have happened over the last four years," sand Minton. "That's one piece."

A conservative figure from Gallagher suggested a 24% increase to rates, but
eventually recommended a 12% jump. The health insurance committee came up with
a plan to increase rates to 9% and use a Health Insurance Benefit Fund that was
sitting untouched with a balance of $240,983 to get up to the 12% recommended.


A survey was also completed, with 56% participation from city employees, on
determining if prescription expenses should be covered in the plan.


"A lot of members of the committee felt like most people figured out how to get their prescription drugs outside of the health plan," said Minton. "A lot of them are getting them a lot cheaper. Some are ordering them from Canada. Others are getting coupon cards. There are many different ways. We put together a list to help employees."

Blue Cross Blue Shield will serve as the third-party administrator for Great
Bend. The last three years have seen the health insurance plan underfunded and
thus reserves have been used.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728497173284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City of Great Bend’s self-funded health insurance plan continues to
be underfunded according to consulting company Gallagher. In response, the
Great Bend City Council voted Monday to approve 2025 health insurance rates
with a 9% increase to city and employee cost. Mike Minton, with Gallagher, said
the city’s reserve funds had more than $2 million in 2020. That number is now
down to just over $1.3 million.
"One of the biggest things is the funding has not gone up with the trends that have happened over the last four years," sand Minton. "That's one piece."A conservative figure from Gallagher suggested a 24% increase to rates, but
eventually recommended a 12% jump. The health insurance committee came up with
a plan to increase rates to 9% and use a Health Insurance Benefit Fund that was
sitting untouched with a balance of $240,983 to get up to the 12% recommended.
A survey was also completed, with 56% participation from city employees, on
determining if prescription expenses should be covered in the plan.
"A lot of members of the committee felt like most people figured out how to get their prescription drugs outside of the health plan," said Minton. "A lot of them are getting them a lot cheaper. Some are ordering them from Canada. Others are getting coupon cards. There are many different ways. We put together a list to help employees."Blue Cross Blue Shield will serve as the third-party administrator for Great
Bend. The last three years have seen the health insurance plan underfunded and
thus reserves have been used.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

City of Great Bend increasing health insurance rates by 9%

The ovaries contain all of the eggs at birth they will ever contain. The menstrual cycle controls the monthly release of eggs until menopause. The menopausal transition starts when this process changes and production of hormones like estrogen begins to decline. Most women start this transition (also called perimenopause) in their late 40s. But it can happen earlier or later.

During this time, women may experience certain symptoms, such as changes in their periods and hot flashes. If a woman hasn’t had a period in 12 months, she can say she’s entered menopause. But for many women this transition is less clear.

“Around one in eight women enter menopause because of a medical intervention, like having their ovaries removed surgically,” says Dr. Sarah Temkin, a women’s health expert at NIH. If this happens, they enter menopause suddenly, with no transition. The bothersome symptoms that they experience are often more significant than if they had entered menopause naturally.

If you haven’t had a period in a year, blood tests can verify that you’ve reached menopause. But no test can confirm when you’ve begun the transition into menopause. If you have symptoms, your doctor may order tests to rule out health conditions.

The menopausal transition (perimenopause) usually lasts around seven years. But it can be shorter or longer.

Many women experience only mild symptoms during perimenopause. For others, symptoms are severe and can interfere with work and life. The most common are called vasomotor symptoms. These include hot flashes and night sweats

“A lot of symptoms can be interrelated,” says Dr. Andrea LaCroix, a menopause researcher at the University of California, San Diego. “If you have hot flashes, they might interfere with your sleep. Then once you get sleep deprived, you don’t feel so good overall.”

If you have mild hot flashes, you may be able to manage them with lifestyle changes. These include dressing in layers that can be removed, carrying a portable fan, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.

Women with severe symptoms now have several drug options to consider. Some women can safely use menopausal hormone therapy, or MHT. Two decades ago, hormone therapy for women in the menopausal transition fell out of favor. Doctors had concerns about the risk of breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, and blood clots from hormone therapy. These concerns were based on a large study that tested hormone therapy to prevent chronic disease in older women. The study showed higher chronic disease risk for some women taking MHT.

More recent studies have confirmed these findings but also found that healthy, younger women who use MHT don’t have the same increased risk as older women. Talk with your health care provider about the potential risks and benefits if you’re considering MHT.

Some women can’t use hormone therapy because of certain personal risk factors. Others may not want to use it. “But there are other treatment choices,” says LaCroix.

“All of these treatments have been found to be helpful, so women have choices.” LaCroix says.

“There’s a huge amount of stigma about women talking about their reproductive health,” Temkin says.

“Women sometimes feel, going through the menopausal transition, that they’re in it alone,” agrees Dr. Chhanda Dutta, an aging expert at NIH. “And while women experience this transition in very different ways, they need to be aware that they’re not alone.”

Perimenopause symptoms can be different for everyone and include:

· Changes in your period. Periods happening very close together or farther apart than usual; heavy bleeding or spotting; periods that last for more than a week.

· Hot flashes. A sudden feeling of heat in the upper part or all of your body.

· Night sweats. Hot flashes that happen during sleep.

· Sleep problems. Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.

· Bladder issues. Sudden urges to urinate, or urine leaking during exercise, sneezing, or laughing.

· Changes in vaginal health and sexuality. Vaginal dryness; discomfort or pain during sex; changes in sexual desire.

· Mood changes. Feeling moody or more irritable; feelings of anxiety or depression.

· Changes in body composition. Muscle loss or fat gain; skin can become thinner; joints and muscles may feel stiff or achy.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The ovaries contain all of the eggs at birth they will ever contain. The menstrual cycle controls the monthly release of eggs until menopause. The menopausal transition starts when this process changes and production of hormones like estrogen begins to decline. Most women start this transition (also called perimenopause) in their late 40s. But it can happen earlier or later.During this time, women may experience certain symptoms, such as changes in their periods and hot flashes. If a woman hasn’t had a period in 12 months, she can say she’s entered menopause. But for many women this transition is less clear.“Around one in eight women enter menopause because of a medical intervention, like having their ovaries removed surgically,” says Dr. Sarah Temkin, a women’s health expert at NIH. If this happens, they enter menopause suddenly, with no transition. The bothersome symptoms that they experience are often more significant than if they had entered menopause naturally.If you haven’t had a period in a year, blood tests can verify that you’ve reached menopause. But no test can confirm when you’ve begun the transition into menopause. If you have symptoms, your doctor may order tests to rule out health conditions.The menopausal transition (perimenopause) usually lasts around seven years. But it can be shorter or longer.Cooling Hot Flashes DownMany women experience only mild symptoms during perimenopause. For others, symptoms are severe and can interfere with work and life. The most common are called vasomotor symptoms. These include hot flashes and night sweats“A lot of symptoms can be interrelated,” says Dr. Andrea LaCroix, a menopause researcher at the University of California, San Diego. “If you have hot flashes, they might interfere with your sleep. Then once you get sleep deprived, you don’t feel so good overall.”If you have mild hot flashes, you may be able to manage them with lifestyle changes. These include dressing in layers that can be removed, carrying a portable fan, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.Women with severe symptoms now have several drug options to consider. Some women can safely use menopausal hormone therapy, or MHT. Two decades ago, hormone therapy for women in the menopausal transition fell out of favor. Doctors had concerns about the risk of breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, and blood clots from hormone therapy. These concerns were based on a large study that tested hormone therapy to prevent chronic disease in older women. The study showed higher chronic disease risk for some women taking MHT.More recent studies have confirmed these findings but also found that healthy, younger women who use MHT don’t have the same increased risk as older women. Talk with your health care provider about the potential risks and benefits if you’re considering MHT.Some women can’t use hormone therapy because of certain personal risk factors. Others may not want to use it. “But there are other treatment choices,” says LaCroix.“All of these treatments have been found to be helpful, so women have choices.” LaCroix says.“There’s a huge amount of stigma about women talking about their reproductive health,” Temkin says.“Women sometimes feel, going through the menopausal transition, that they’re in it alone,” agrees Dr. Chhanda Dutta, an aging expert at NIH. “And while women experience this transition in very different ways, they need to be aware that they’re not alone.”Transitioning Into Menopause?Perimenopause symptoms can be different for everyone and include:· Changes in your period. Periods happening very close together or farther apart than usual; heavy bleeding or spotting; periods that last for more than a week.· Hot flashes. A sudden feeling of heat in the upper part or all of your body.· Night sweats. Hot flashes that happen during sleep.· Sleep problems. Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.· Bladder issues. Sudden urges to urinate, or urine leaking during exercise, sneezing, or laughing.· Changes in vaginal health and sexuality. Vaginal dryness; discomfort or pain during sex; changes in sexual desire.· Mood changes. Feeling moody or more irritable; feelings of anxiety or depression.· Changes in body composition. Muscle loss or fat gain; skin can become thinner; joints and muscles may feel stiff or achy.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

KOERNER: Starting the transition

Starting in June, 17 entrepreneurs applied for Barton County’s IGNITE
Business Competition for a chance to create or further develop a new business.
The top five finalists were selected in late September and Thursday, Oct. 10 is the night
for the live finale in Great Bend. 

Great Bend Economic Development Director
Sara Arnberger said the shark tank style competition requires finalists to
present business proposals and pitch their ideas in front of three judges.


"It should be a lot of fun," said Arnberger. "We're going to have our same sharks (judges) back from last year...Jason Mayers, Jerrod Westfahl and Kari Smith. They're all great leaders and investors in our community. We're excited to have them back."&nbsp;

The live finals will take place at the Crest Theater with the doors opening at
6 p.m. and the competition taking place at 7 p.m. Tickets at the door will be $25, cash only. If you can’t attend, a live stream will be available at
greatbendpost.com.&nbsp;

The winner will receive $50,000 for their startup business. Second place
is awarded $30,000 and $10,000 for third.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696562091978.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostStarting in June, 17 entrepreneurs applied for Barton County’s IGNITE
Business Competition for a chance to create or further develop a new business.
The top five finalists were selected in late September and Thursday, Oct. 10 is the night
for the live finale in Great Bend. Great Bend Economic Development Director
Sara Arnberger said the shark tank style competition requires finalists to
present business proposals and pitch their ideas in front of three judges.
"It should be a lot of fun," said Arnberger. "We're going to have our same sharks (judges) back from last year...Jason Mayers, Jerrod Westfahl and Kari Smith. They're all great leaders and investors in our community. We're excited to have them back."&nbsp;The live finals will take place at the Crest Theater with the doors opening at
6 p.m. and the competition taking place at 7 p.m. Tickets at the door will be $25, cash only. If you can’t attend, a live stream will be available at
greatbendpost.com.&nbsp;The winner will receive $50,000 for their startup business. Second place
is awarded $30,000 and $10,000 for third.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Barton County’s entrepreneur competition finals are tonight

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (10/9)

At 7:31 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 400
block of NE 30 Road.

At 8:14 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 3208 Railroad
Avenue.

At 11:10 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 100 block
of NE 30 Road.

At 3:19 p.m. an accident was reported at Forest &amp;
Jefferson.

At 6:19 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at NW 50
Avenue &amp; NW 90 Road in Olmitz.

At 8:19 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 1100 10th
Street.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (10/9)

At 12:50 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.

At 12:08 p.m. Brenda Riedel reported a hit and run accident
at 1811 Main.

At 3:19 p.m. Michael Wells reported an accident later
determined to be a non-injury accident at Forest &amp; Jefferson.

At 6:42 p.m. Rosie Meier reported a theft at 1015 Adams.

At 7:32 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1714 Odell.

At 8:03 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 1208 Jefferson.

At 8:54 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1705 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (10/9)Cattle OutAt 7:31 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 400
block of NE 30 Road.Criminal DamageAt 8:14 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 3208 Railroad
Avenue.Traffic ArrestAt 11:10 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 100 block
of NE 30 Road.Injury AccidentAt 3:19 p.m. an accident was reported at Forest &amp;
Jefferson.Animal ComplaintAt 6:19 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at NW 50
Avenue &amp; NW 90 Road in Olmitz.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 8:19 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 1100 10th
Street.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (10/9)Convulsions / SeizuresAt 12:50 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.Non-Injury AccidentAt 12:08 p.m. Brenda Riedel reported a hit and run accident
at 1811 Main.Injury AccidentAt 3:19 p.m. Michael Wells reported an accident later
determined to be a non-injury accident at Forest &amp; Jefferson.TheftAt 6:42 p.m. Rosie Meier reported a theft at 1015 Adams.Animal ComplaintAt 7:32 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1714 Odell.Criminal DamageAt 8:03 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 1208 Jefferson.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 8:19 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 1100 10th
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 8:54 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1705 Main.

Cop Shop (10/9)

10/9 BOOKED: Xavier Carey on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Logan Starner on Russell Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $270 cash only.

BOOKED: Wesley Phillips, on hold for KDOC.

BOOKED: Barrian Cartwright on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

BOOKED: Tyler Partington on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Adhere, bond set at $405 cash only; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Xavier Carey on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Logan Starner on Russell Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $270 cash bond.

RELEASED: Christine Gonzalez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, on $779.55 OR bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>10/9 BOOKED: Xavier Carey on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Logan Starner on Russell Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $270 cash only.BOOKED: Wesley Phillips, on hold for KDOC.BOOKED: Barrian Cartwright on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.BOOKED: Tyler Partington on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Adhere, bond set at $405 cash only; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Xavier Carey on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Logan Starner on Russell Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $270 cash bond.RELEASED: Christine Gonzalez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, on $779.55 OR bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (10/9)

PAWNEE COUNTY —A special question regarding Liquor by the Drink in Pawnee County will appear on the backside of the Pawnee County Nov. 5, 2024, General Election ballot.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Currently all licensed drinking establishments in Pawnee that offer alcoholic liquor for consumption by the individual drink are required to derive at least 30 percent of their gross receipts from the sales of food.

In February, the Board of County Commissioners of Pawnee County determined that the voters should be given a choice as to the appropriate restriction to the sale of alcoholic liquor for consumption by the individual drink in Pawnee County.

A vote of YES would eliminate the 30 percent food sales requirement. A Vote of NO would maintain the current 30 percent food sales requirement.

If passed, the new liquor by the drink rule would become effective Jan. 1, 2025.&nbsp;Advanced voting starts next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728499456312.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY —A special question regarding Liquor by the Drink in Pawnee County will appear on the backside of the Pawnee County Nov. 5, 2024, General Election ballot.&nbsp;&nbsp;Currently all licensed drinking establishments in Pawnee that offer alcoholic liquor for consumption by the individual drink are required to derive at least 30 percent of their gross receipts from the sales of food.In February, the Board of County Commissioners of Pawnee County determined that the voters should be given a choice as to the appropriate restriction to the sale of alcoholic liquor for consumption by the individual drink in Pawnee County.A vote of YES would eliminate the 30 percent food sales requirement. A Vote of NO would maintain the current 30 percent food sales requirement.If passed, the new liquor by the drink rule would become effective Jan. 1, 2025.&nbsp;Advanced voting starts next week.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Liquor by the drink on the ballot in Pawnee County

The old Swirly Top Drive in on S.W. Trail Street in Larned was once known for handing out free shakes and malts to Larned High School football players if they won on Friday nights. The Swirly Top is gone but Chad Eakin has transformed the building at 424 S.W. Trail Street on the west of the city into the 1950s-themed The Diner. Caitlyn Eakin, who is handling marketing for the new restaurant, said The Diner will be a trip down memory lane.

"Ultimately, we wanted to just highlight the community by bringing back a vital piece of Larned's history and provide another dining place and experience for those who live in the Pawnee County community and beyond," she said. "The Swirly Top was a happening spot. We wanted to really do justice to that time period."

Eakin completely gutted and overhauled The Swirly Top inside and out but maintained the look of the era with a bar and stools and a black-and-white checkered floor. The Diner will serve standard diner fare for breakfast and lunch, as well as soft-serve ice cream, sundaes, and shakes.

"We're going to do cheeseburgers, chicken strips, sandwiches, things of that nature," Caitlyn said. "That will start at 10:30 a.m. Breakfast will be from 7 a.m. to 10:30, and they will have breakfast sandwiches and breakfast burritos to start out with, and then eventually move on to pancakes and waffles."

Chance and Michelle Noble will operate The Diner. The Larned Area Chamber of Commerce will host a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at The Diner at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15. Starting hours for the restaurant are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday, though those hours are subject to change once the business is fully established.

Watch for updates on the new restaurant by following <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566560229119">The Diner - Larned, KS</a> on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728499383769.jpeg" alt="Chad Eakin and family turned the former Swirly Top Drive In on the west side of Larned into the 1950s-themed The Diner. A ribbon cutting at the new restaurant is scheduled for Oct. 15." />
 <figcaption>Chad Eakin and family turned the former Swirly Top Drive In on the west side of Larned into the 1950s-themed The Diner. A ribbon cutting at the new restaurant is scheduled for Oct. 15.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe old Swirly Top Drive in on S.W. Trail Street in Larned was once known for handing out free shakes and malts to Larned High School football players if they won on Friday nights. The Swirly Top is gone but Chad Eakin has transformed the building at 424 S.W. Trail Street on the west of the city into the 1950s-themed The Diner. Caitlyn Eakin, who is handling marketing for the new restaurant, said The Diner will be a trip down memory lane."Ultimately, we wanted to just highlight the community by bringing back a vital piece of Larned's history and provide another dining place and experience for those who live in the Pawnee County community and beyond," she said. "The Swirly Top was a happening spot. We wanted to really do justice to that time period."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728499446980.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eakin completely gutted and overhauled The Swirly Top inside and out but maintained the look of the era with a bar and stools and a black-and-white checkered floor. The Diner will serve standard diner fare for breakfast and lunch, as well as soft-serve ice cream, sundaes, and shakes."We're going to do cheeseburgers, chicken strips, sandwiches, things of that nature," Caitlyn said. "That will start at 10:30 a.m. Breakfast will be from 7 a.m. to 10:30, and they will have breakfast sandwiches and breakfast burritos to start out with, and then eventually move on to pancakes and waffles."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728499488338.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chance and Michelle Noble will operate The Diner. The Larned Area Chamber of Commerce will host a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at The Diner at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15. Starting hours for the restaurant are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday, though those hours are subject to change once the business is fully established.Watch for updates on the new restaurant by following <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566560229119">The Diner - Larned, KS</a> on Facebook.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Take a step back to 1950s at Larned's The Diner; ribbon cutting Oct. 15

Today Sunny, with a high near 86. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the morning.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 54. South wind 7 to 9 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 89. South wind 6 to 8 mph.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 54. South-southeast wind around 6 mph becoming north-northwest after midnight.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 88. North-northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 74.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 42.

Columbus Day Sunny, with a high near 66.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40.

Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 40.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 73.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 86. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the morning.Tonight Clear, with a low around 54. South wind 7 to 9 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 89. South wind 6 to 8 mph.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 54. South-southeast wind around 6 mph becoming north-northwest after midnight.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 88. North-northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 74.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 42.Columbus Day Sunny, with a high near 66.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68.Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 40.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 73.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

After six weeks of competition, the Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC) on Wednesday announced the Atom Pop corn popper is the winner of the 2024 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas - People's Choice .

"The KMC is excited to celebrate QuinCraft Production's Atom Pop corn popper as the 2024 Coolest Thing Made in Kansas, said KMC Executive Director Brandie McPherson. "Thank you to everyone who nominated and voted for their favorite Kansas-made products. It once again has been a fun competition,"

McPherson said the KMC launched the Coolest Thing competition in 2020 to highlight the important role the manufacturing industry plays in the Kansas economy and as a way to promote the manufacturing industry and to raise awareness about the many cool products made in our state.

Presented by Forvis Mazars, the competition kicked off in August with 16 products in the bracket-style tournament. The products competed in two rounds of head-to-head match-ups with the product with the most votes moving to the next round. The final round put the final four Kansas-made products up against one another. The final four were:

Disc Tree Cutter by CVR Manufacturing, Galesburg.

Handy Hook Firefighter by Helten Panacea, LLC, Garden Plain.

Air Navigation Aid Systems by Indra Air Traffic, Inc., Overland Park.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728501595630.jpeg" alt="Forvis Mazars Partner Matt Cash presents the 2024 People's Choice trophy to QuinCraft Products owner Loren Orth after the company's Atom Pop corn popper was announced the winner of this year's tournament." />
 <figcaption>Forvis Mazars Partner Matt Cash presents the 2024 People's Choice trophy to QuinCraft Products owner Loren Orth after the company's Atom Pop corn popper was announced the winner of this year's tournament.</figcaption>
 </figure>After six weeks of competition, the Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC) on Wednesday announced the Atom Pop corn popper is the winner of the 2024 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas - People's Choice ."The KMC is excited to celebrate QuinCraft Production's Atom Pop corn popper as the 2024 Coolest Thing Made in Kansas, said KMC Executive Director Brandie McPherson. "Thank you to everyone who nominated and voted for their favorite Kansas-made products. It once again has been a fun competition,"McPherson said the KMC launched the Coolest Thing competition in 2020 to highlight the important role the manufacturing industry plays in the Kansas economy and as a way to promote the manufacturing industry and to raise awareness about the many cool products made in our state.Presented by Forvis Mazars, the competition kicked off in August with 16 products in the bracket-style tournament. The products competed in two rounds of head-to-head match-ups with the product with the most votes moving to the next round. The final round put the final four Kansas-made products up against one another. The final four were:Disc Tree Cutter by CVR Manufacturing, Galesburg.Handy Hook Firefighter by Helten Panacea, LLC, Garden Plain.Air Navigation Aid Systems by Indra Air Traffic, Inc., Overland Park.Atom Pop Corn Popper by QuinCraft Production, Bushton.Kansans cast nearly than 30,000 votes during the tournament and final round of voting.Manufactured in Bushton by QuinCraft Production, the Atom Pop is a stove top popcorn popper. It makes 2 1/2 quarts of popped corn.​​ The conical shape and aluminum bowl allow the popcorn to be popped without stirring or shaking. Popped kernels are pushed up away from the heat and the aluminum dissipates the heat so the corn does not burn.​ It is as convenient as microwave popcorn and is healthier without the additives.The winner of the 2024 Coolest Thing Made in Kansas - People's Choice was announced during the KMC's annual Kansas Manufacturing Summit held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita.There are nearly 2,500 manufacturers in Kansas, employing more than 160,000 people with an average annual compensation of $79,722. Manufacturing produces more than $26.7 billion in output annually, 15% of the total output in the state. Manufacturing helps drive the state's economy with more than $9.93 billion in annual manufactured good exports to markets such as Canada, Mexico, and Japan.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

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