Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Human Resources Director Randy Keasling that aired June 26, 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 Steve Webster and Great Bend Human Resources Director Randy Keasling that aired June 26, 2024.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend HR Director Randy Keasling" 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=edvwm-16527c9-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 HR Director Randy Keasling

Deb and Ken Wood share their farming story through tornado recovery to retirement and beyond

The lives of one Kansas farm family was forever changed after a large and violent long-track tornado tore across north central Kansas on May 25, 2015. Ranking as one of the most violent tornadoes of the season with an EF4 rating and estimated winds of 180 miles per hour, the funnel was on the ground for more than a staggering 90 minutes, bending railroad tracks and snapping trees three or four feet wide in half.&nbsp;

The worst damage was to a single farmstead one mile southwest of Chapman, where the home and all the outbuildings were completely blown away as the operation’s matriarch hid in the basement underneath pillows. But what could be only a story of devastation is also one of hope, community and resilience for Ken and Deb Wood, who shared their story with Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations and host of the Wheat’s on Your Mind podcast.

Today, Ken is a retired wheat farmer, who has served on the boards of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the National Association of Wheat Growers. He still serves as a board member for the National Wheat Foundation. Deb works as a family resource management agent for K-State Research and Extension in Salina.

The day the tornado struck wasn’t expected to be a very severe weather day. Ken was away in Hays for KAWG meetings and Deb went to and came home from work like normal. Their farmstead was picturesque, located in a river bottom with a traditional farmhouse, nine outbuildings and all the machinery you would expect on a working farm – minus the combines that were stored at a different location. Ken had all his corn and about half of his soybeans planted and he recalled he was three weeks to a month out from wheat harvest.

Deb came home like any other day, got a bite to eat and had the news on. There was a storm building east of Bennington, but it was Kansas and May, so thunderstorms and tornadoes are just part of the normal weather broadcast.

“There’s tornadoes around Kansas all the time, so I didn’t think too awful much of it until things started getting closer,” Deb said. “Looking back, if I knew then what I know now, I would have put as much stuff into my vehicle as I possibly could have and gotten the heck out of Dodge.”

Ken stayed in Hays for supper. He got an alert on his phone that there was some severe weather developing, but he just watched as it developed like a normal storm. He got on the road and headed for home, but the longer he drove, the more he realized the storm was developing into something dangerous.

In Kansas, tornadoes typically move from the southwest to the northeast or due north. This night’s tornado moved west to east, took a right turn, went south across I-70 and hit the Wood’s farmstead out of the northwest as a monster.

“When you live in Kansas, you spend a lot of time in the basement when there’s a warning,” Deb said. “Most of the time, I go downstairs and I just kind of sit there, listen to the radio and wait for it to be over with. I had done that and then I had gone back up as I was getting texts from people. And that’s when I started worrying.”

Deb quickly gathered what she could – some medicine, work clothes and, importantly, Ken’s work boots. Then she ducked under a desk in the basement, taking pillows off the bed in the room and stuffing them around her. Still, it didn’t occur to her that the storm would take everything else.

Then the storm hit. The glass broke. The subfloor was totally blown away. And the entire house was gone.

“There was nothing left at the farm and I mean nothing left,” Deb said. “There was just nothing. It just chewed everything up into little pieces.”

The glass all broke, it ripped off the subfloor totally.&nbsp;The house’s center beam broke into two and a wall landed on Deb. Then it started raining and then it started hailing. Still, Deb kept her cool.

“I called Ken to let him know we’d taken a direct hit, but I was fine, but I couldn’t get out,” Deb remembered.

A local fireman who had lost part of his own farming operation in a 2008 tornado that hit nearby Chapman was first on the scene. Deb could hear him calling for her, so she started hitting on top of the wall. He removed what he could but had to wait for help to get her out entirely.

Ken got the call when he was in nearby Abilene. He raced down the road but was stopped on his normal route on Old 40 Highway because there were poles across the road. When a deputy came flying around the corner and heading north towards I-70, Ken got behind him and followed him all the way – not stopping at a single stop sign, only slowing when they hit a heavy hailstorm.

By the time Ken got home, it was still light enough to see the damage. Deb had very deep bruises on her back, but no broken bones. Although they had no house, no clothes, no food, the community immediately rallied together. Ken and Deb stayed that night at Ken’s brother’s house, but neither slept a wink.

The next morning brought help that did not stop – from family, friends, neighbors, the community, former co-workers, the KARL program, the wheat family. Anyone and everyone who could offer help did. Two former teachers of Ken offered to rent them a two-story farmhouse west of Junction City that was fully furnished. The couple moved in with half a trash bag full of clothes and a pan of lasagna from a neighbor and lived there for 10 months. Although, the fridge was already so full of offerings that the lasagna barely fit.

In addition to the farmhouse and yard, the couple lost irrigation pivots, bins, other buildings and a couple of pieces of equipment.&nbsp;But one of the hardest chores was cleaning up all the acres where debris was scattered like crumbs.

“It literally just chewed stuff up and so there was a lot of stuff that was spread out over the fields,” Ken said. “Little pieces. You’d find a handle off a truck, and there was a lot of things that you couldn’t tell what they were.”

In addition to picking up individual pieces of debris, Ken and his helpers burned wheat stubble and then had to mine the debris hidden under the stubble. It couldn’t be done all at once, so it was done one smoky, dusty terrace at a time.

Within just a few weeks, it was time for wheat harvest. Luckily, Ken was no stranger to borrowing trucks or tractors from his brother or neighbors. And wheat harvest felt like a return to something normal.

“That was the first thing that felt like I was doing something that’s not picking stuff up and not tornado-related,” Ken said. “Although harvest was a real trip, cutting around stuff out in the wheat fields, that was what got me back into the right frame of mind to at least start a plan.”

The couple navigated insurance and deciding where and how to rebuild their farmstead. The home builders broke ground at the end of September and they moved into their brand-new home the first weekend of the next April.

Their story does not end there. When health issues popped up, Ken made the difficult decision to retire. One of the neighbors who stepped up after the tornado and brought out a loader to help out had a son coming home and wanted to expand his operation. So Ken and Deb made the calls – first to their landlords and then to others – it was time to turn over the operation to a new generation.

“One weekend, that’s about all I did was call people and let them know,” Ken said. “As it turned out, I’ve been way healthier than I was expecting to be from this whole deal, so I could have kept going. But once you make the decision, I’ve been at peace with it pretty much.”

While COVID-19 disrupted retirement travel plans, the Woods have found themselves as busy as ever. Deb now helps share her story about taking an inventory of both everything in the machine shed and in the house, but also putting together a grab-and-go box with all the policy and phone numbers needed if the worst happens. And Ken found he missed serving on wheat industry boards, so he quickly applied when a spot opened up for the board for the National Wheat Foundation.

“Now I’m probably busier than I want to be, but it’s self-inflicted,” Ken said. “So I’m good with that.”

Through it all – farming, tornadoes, rebuilding a home, retiring – Ken and Deb know one truth above all else – it’s the people around you that matter most.

“I feel like we’ve come out on the other side stronger and more resilient,” Deb said. “All of the people that helped us get through the recovery; we couldn’t have done it without them. Building those relationships and keeping in touch with people and having that community – it really helps you get through things like this.”

Listen to Ken and Deb’s full story on the podcast or find other episodes of “Wheat’s On Your Mind” at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001RmWZ_PX4vSzc-5iqlzbNHOLHxJSkNwPEmmTeP0wbLGU7Wa3YmrBYy2ueagzcICGKgyrH-D0X-ekqbAMEAn55kDw9CdegRL7BFcnVEr0Uv4s17Bv5ySNUYmJZ-4UMDoEKqXeOr5XUH6IaUlrNgdZASsDwXrXneqmL&amp;c=A_GIGW_pTbEBGFYB7PFYr3eRPaLkNfIm6Mj2yOOtyMG_1SIl_uGmVg==&amp;ch=SnE003WEDibcj2qhem4iSGM6z84o-xXd9pPR5yDPoRQFC3_L2LCQ7A==">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.&nbsp;

Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719498043564.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Deb and Ken Wood share their farming story through tornado recovery to retirement and beyondThe lives of one Kansas farm family was forever changed after a large and violent long-track tornado tore across north central Kansas on May 25, 2015. Ranking as one of the most violent tornadoes of the season with an EF4 rating and estimated winds of 180 miles per hour, the funnel was on the ground for more than a staggering 90 minutes, bending railroad tracks and snapping trees three or four feet wide in half.&nbsp;The worst damage was to a single farmstead one mile southwest of Chapman, where the home and all the outbuildings were completely blown away as the operation’s matriarch hid in the basement underneath pillows. But what could be only a story of devastation is also one of hope, community and resilience for Ken and Deb Wood, who shared their story with Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations and host of the Wheat’s on Your Mind podcast.Today, Ken is a retired wheat farmer, who has served on the boards of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and the National Association of Wheat Growers. He still serves as a board member for the National Wheat Foundation. Deb works as a family resource management agent for K-State Research and Extension in Salina.The day the tornado struck wasn’t expected to be a very severe weather day. Ken was away in Hays for KAWG meetings and Deb went to and came home from work like normal. Their farmstead was picturesque, located in a river bottom with a traditional farmhouse, nine outbuildings and all the machinery you would expect on a working farm – minus the combines that were stored at a different location. Ken had all his corn and about half of his soybeans planted and he recalled he was three weeks to a month out from wheat harvest.Deb came home like any other day, got a bite to eat and had the news on. There was a storm building east of Bennington, but it was Kansas and May, so thunderstorms and tornadoes are just part of the normal weather broadcast.“There’s tornadoes around Kansas all the time, so I didn’t think too awful much of it until things started getting closer,” Deb said. “Looking back, if I knew then what I know now, I would have put as much stuff into my vehicle as I possibly could have and gotten the heck out of Dodge.”Ken stayed in Hays for supper. He got an alert on his phone that there was some severe weather developing, but he just watched as it developed like a normal storm. He got on the road and headed for home, but the longer he drove, the more he realized the storm was developing into something dangerous.In Kansas, tornadoes typically move from the southwest to the northeast or due north. This night’s tornado moved west to east, took a right turn, went south across I-70 and hit the Wood’s farmstead out of the northwest as a monster.“When you live in Kansas, you spend a lot of time in the basement when there’s a warning,” Deb said. “Most of the time, I go downstairs and I just kind of sit there, listen to the radio and wait for it to be over with. I had done that and then I had gone back up as I was getting texts from people. And that’s when I started worrying.”Deb quickly gathered what she could – some medicine, work clothes and, importantly, Ken’s work boots. Then she ducked under a desk in the basement, taking pillows off the bed in the room and stuffing them around her. Still, it didn’t occur to her that the storm would take everything else.Then the storm hit. The glass broke. The subfloor was totally blown away. And the entire house was gone.“There was nothing left at the farm and I mean nothing left,” Deb said. “There was just nothing. It just chewed everything up into little pieces.”The glass all broke, it ripped off the subfloor totally.&nbsp;The house’s center beam broke into two and a wall landed on Deb. Then it started raining and then it started hailing. Still, Deb kept her cool.“I called Ken to let him know we’d taken a direct hit, but I was fine, but I couldn’t get out,” Deb remembered.A local fireman who had lost part of his own farming operation in a 2008 tornado that hit nearby Chapman was first on the scene. Deb could hear him calling for her, so she started hitting on top of the wall. He removed what he could but had to wait for help to get her out entirely.Ken got the call when he was in nearby Abilene. He raced down the road but was stopped on his normal route on Old 40 Highway because there were poles across the road. When a deputy came flying around the corner and heading north towards I-70, Ken got behind him and followed him all the way – not stopping at a single stop sign, only slowing when they hit a heavy hailstorm.By the time Ken got home, it was still light enough to see the damage. Deb had very deep bruises on her back, but no broken bones. Although they had no house, no clothes, no food, the community immediately rallied together. Ken and Deb stayed that night at Ken’s brother’s house, but neither slept a wink.The next morning brought help that did not stop – from family, friends, neighbors, the community, former co-workers, the KARL program, the wheat family. Anyone and everyone who could offer help did. Two former teachers of Ken offered to rent them a two-story farmhouse west of Junction City that was fully furnished. The couple moved in with half a trash bag full of clothes and a pan of lasagna from a neighbor and lived there for 10 months. Although, the fridge was already so full of offerings that the lasagna barely fit.In addition to the farmhouse and yard, the couple lost irrigation pivots, bins, other buildings and a couple of pieces of equipment.&nbsp;But one of the hardest chores was cleaning up all the acres where debris was scattered like crumbs.“It literally just chewed stuff up and so there was a lot of stuff that was spread out over the fields,” Ken said. “Little pieces. You’d find a handle off a truck, and there was a lot of things that you couldn’t tell what they were.”In addition to picking up individual pieces of debris, Ken and his helpers burned wheat stubble and then had to mine the debris hidden under the stubble. It couldn’t be done all at once, so it was done one smoky, dusty terrace at a time.Within just a few weeks, it was time for wheat harvest. Luckily, Ken was no stranger to borrowing trucks or tractors from his brother or neighbors. And wheat harvest felt like a return to something normal.“That was the first thing that felt like I was doing something that’s not picking stuff up and not tornado-related,” Ken said. “Although harvest was a real trip, cutting around stuff out in the wheat fields, that was what got me back into the right frame of mind to at least start a plan.”The couple navigated insurance and deciding where and how to rebuild their farmstead. The home builders broke ground at the end of September and they moved into their brand-new home the first weekend of the next April.Their story does not end there. When health issues popped up, Ken made the difficult decision to retire. One of the neighbors who stepped up after the tornado and brought out a loader to help out had a son coming home and wanted to expand his operation. So Ken and Deb made the calls – first to their landlords and then to others – it was time to turn over the operation to a new generation.“One weekend, that’s about all I did was call people and let them know,” Ken said. “As it turned out, I’ve been way healthier than I was expecting to be from this whole deal, so I could have kept going. But once you make the decision, I’ve been at peace with it pretty much.”While COVID-19 disrupted retirement travel plans, the Woods have found themselves as busy as ever. Deb now helps share her story about taking an inventory of both everything in the machine shed and in the house, but also putting together a grab-and-go box with all the policy and phone numbers needed if the worst happens. And Ken found he missed serving on wheat industry boards, so he quickly applied when a spot opened up for the board for the National Wheat Foundation.“Now I’m probably busier than I want to be, but it’s self-inflicted,” Ken said. “So I’m good with that.”Through it all – farming, tornadoes, rebuilding a home, retiring – Ken and Deb know one truth above all else – it’s the people around you that matter most.“I feel like we’ve come out on the other side stronger and more resilient,” Deb said. “All of the people that helped us get through the recovery; we couldn’t have done it without them. Building those relationships and keeping in touch with people and having that community – it really helps you get through things like this.”Listen to Ken and Deb’s full story on the podcast or find other episodes of “Wheat’s On Your Mind” at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001RmWZ_PX4vSzc-5iqlzbNHOLHxJSkNwPEmmTeP0wbLGU7Wa3YmrBYy2ueagzcICGKgyrH-D0X-ekqbAMEAn55kDw9CdegRL7BFcnVEr0Uv4s17Bv5ySNUYmJZ-4UMDoEKqXeOr5XUH6IaUlrNgdZASsDwXrXneqmL&amp;c=A_GIGW_pTbEBGFYB7PFYr3eRPaLkNfIm6Mj2yOOtyMG_1SIl_uGmVg==&amp;ch=SnE003WEDibcj2qhem4iSGM6z84o-xXd9pPR5yDPoRQFC3_L2LCQ7A==">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.&nbsp;Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop: Gone with the Wind

From Great Bend High School speech and debate coach Kim Heath...

Last week, from June 16-21, the Great Bend High School Speech and Debate team competed in the National Speech &amp; Debate Association (NSDA) tournament in Des Moines, Iowa—the capstone of the Panthers’ 2023-2024 high school speech and debate season. Great Bend High School received special recognition for competing in the National tournament for the 40th time.

The NSDA tournament, known simply as "Nationals”, brings together over 2,000 schools across the country to compete for 42 championship titles. Considered the largest academic competition in the nation, the 2024 NSDA tournament drew over 6,700 participants, making it the biggest tournament to date. The tournament will also be held in Des Moines next summer. “The NSDA is headquartered in Des Moines, and 2025 will mark our centennial year of providing competitive speech and debate opportunities for youth, so there is no better host than Iowa for these two tournaments,” said J. Scott Wunn, Executive Director of the National Speech &amp; Debate Association.

“We believe that effective communication skills and knowledge of the issues impacting millions of people around the world are essential for empowering young people to become engaged citizens, skilled professionals, and honorable leaders,” said Wunn.

Among the notable alumni of NSDA are figures like Supreme Court justices Ketanji Brown Jackson and Sonia Sotomayor, media personalities Tom Llamas and Stephen Colbert, and Academy Award winners Jordan Peele and Brad Pitt. The tournament is a moving reminder of how the skills students learn in speech and debate empower them to be changemakers, advocates, and future leaders of our world.

“Our students worked tirelessly for the past two months to prepare for this unprecedented level of competition,” said Kim Heath, coach of the Great Bend team. “It’s a testament to their dedication and the skills they’ve honed throughout the season.”

GBHS students competed in congressional debate and individual speech events including duo interpretation, expository speaking, poetry, prose and original spoken word poetry.

The GBHS team was comprised of two recent graduates and three rising seniors. Recent graduate Chrisangel Adame represented West Kansas in the mock Congressional Senate debates. This was his first trip to nationals. After he finished debating in the Senate, he went on to compete in

Storytelling and Prose. His prose successfully moved into elimination rounds before he dropped in the double octafinals.

The other recent GBHS graduate was Milena Carbajal. This was Milena’s second trip to the National Tournament in Duo Interpretation. Carbajal’s supplemental event of choice was Poetry. Her interpretation of “Half-Hanged Mary” by Margaret Atwood finished in the top 60 of the nation.

Senior Darcy Feist was Carbajal’s partner in Duo Interpretation. Feist is a veteran of three consecutive Nationals. She performed an expository speech on multi-level marketing after the Duo was eliminated. The speech made it through two rounds of elimination before placing in the top 60. Feist’s memories will include the team building experiences they had as a squad. She explained, “I will remember the bonding moments I had with my team and all the funny moments and days we spent laughing. I am so grateful.”

Also placing in the top 60, was Senior Anna Bitter. Her events included both Poetry and Original Spoken Word Poetry. Her original poem, “Mosaic,” propelled her deep into the elimination rounds.

Reese King was the final competitor for GBHS. Her expository speech about our country’s national parks system finished in the top half of the competitors. King commented on the diversity she experienced at Nationals. “I was able to meet so many new people that I wouldn’t have met otherwise. I even met a random boy who looked like a carbon copy of me, same suit and everything.”

Competing at Nationals was an "eye-opening experience," for the Panthers, and much learning and growth was seen during the week. “Diverse competitors from across the country filled every round. Our students were able to observe a variety of different skill sets and bring something back home to share with their teammates. The tournament is such a strong learning experience," Great Bend speech and debate coach Kim Heath said.

One statement Heath repeated frequently during the tournament is that Nationals is a marathon, not a sprint. The NSDA tournament runs for a full week, as opposed to the one or two-day weekend tournaments the team is used to during the school year. The students focused on staying hydrated, resting, eating well and other healthy behaviors to maintain their stamina for the multiple rounds of competition.

All of the students gave credit to their coaches: Kim Heath, Dan Heath and Pamela Williams, for their unwavering support and belief in their abilities. Anna Bitter said the coaching staff’s determination helped the team members believe that they were "worthy” of competing at Nationals. “The time they spent working in preparation and their willingness to just spend time with us is a testament to how much they believe in us," she said.

The team members and coaches would also like to thank the Board of Education, whose commitment to educational excellence paved the way for the students' success. Additionally, the GBHS administration's unwavering support played a crucial role in preparing the competitors for the prestigious event. Finally, the team also extends heartfelt thanks to generous alumni donors whose contributions ensured that the students had the resources and opportunities needed to excel. These combined efforts have left a lasting impact and served as a reminder to students to pay it forward and support future participants in this activity.

With the National Speech &amp; Debate Association (NSDA) tournament concluded, the 2023-24 debate and speech season has officially ended. The GBHS Panthers look forward to the upcoming fall debate competitions and are eager to build on their successes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719504668071.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend High School speech and debate coach Kim Heath...Last week, from June 16-21, the Great Bend High School Speech and Debate team competed in the National Speech &amp; Debate Association (NSDA) tournament in Des Moines, Iowa—the capstone of the Panthers’ 2023-2024 high school speech and debate season. Great Bend High School received special recognition for competing in the National tournament for the 40th time.The NSDA tournament, known simply as "Nationals”, brings together over 2,000 schools across the country to compete for 42 championship titles. Considered the largest academic competition in the nation, the 2024 NSDA tournament drew over 6,700 participants, making it the biggest tournament to date. The tournament will also be held in Des Moines next summer. “The NSDA is headquartered in Des Moines, and 2025 will mark our centennial year of providing competitive speech and debate opportunities for youth, so there is no better host than Iowa for these two tournaments,” said J. Scott Wunn, Executive Director of the National Speech &amp; Debate Association.“We believe that effective communication skills and knowledge of the issues impacting millions of people around the world are essential for empowering young people to become engaged citizens, skilled professionals, and honorable leaders,” said Wunn.Among the notable alumni of NSDA are figures like Supreme Court justices Ketanji Brown Jackson and Sonia Sotomayor, media personalities Tom Llamas and Stephen Colbert, and Academy Award winners Jordan Peele and Brad Pitt. The tournament is a moving reminder of how the skills students learn in speech and debate empower them to be changemakers, advocates, and future leaders of our world.“Our students worked tirelessly for the past two months to prepare for this unprecedented level of competition,” said Kim Heath, coach of the Great Bend team. “It’s a testament to their dedication and the skills they’ve honed throughout the season.”GBHS students competed in congressional debate and individual speech events including duo interpretation, expository speaking, poetry, prose and original spoken word poetry.The GBHS team was comprised of two recent graduates and three rising seniors. Recent graduate Chrisangel Adame represented West Kansas in the mock Congressional Senate debates. This was his first trip to nationals. After he finished debating in the Senate, he went on to compete inStorytelling and Prose. His prose successfully moved into elimination rounds before he dropped in the double octafinals.The other recent GBHS graduate was Milena Carbajal. This was Milena’s second trip to the National Tournament in Duo Interpretation. Carbajal’s supplemental event of choice was Poetry. Her interpretation of “Half-Hanged Mary” by Margaret Atwood finished in the top 60 of the nation.Senior Darcy Feist was Carbajal’s partner in Duo Interpretation. Feist is a veteran of three consecutive Nationals. She performed an expository speech on multi-level marketing after the Duo was eliminated. The speech made it through two rounds of elimination before placing in the top 60. Feist’s memories will include the team building experiences they had as a squad. She explained, “I will remember the bonding moments I had with my team and all the funny moments and days we spent laughing. I am so grateful.”Also placing in the top 60, was Senior Anna Bitter. Her events included both Poetry and Original Spoken Word Poetry. Her original poem, “Mosaic,” propelled her deep into the elimination rounds.Reese King was the final competitor for GBHS. Her expository speech about our country’s national parks system finished in the top half of the competitors. King commented on the diversity she experienced at Nationals. “I was able to meet so many new people that I wouldn’t have met otherwise. I even met a random boy who looked like a carbon copy of me, same suit and everything.”Competing at Nationals was an "eye-opening experience," for the Panthers, and much learning and growth was seen during the week. “Diverse competitors from across the country filled every round. Our students were able to observe a variety of different skill sets and bring something back home to share with their teammates. The tournament is such a strong learning experience," Great Bend speech and debate coach Kim Heath said.One statement Heath repeated frequently during the tournament is that Nationals is a marathon, not a sprint. The NSDA tournament runs for a full week, as opposed to the one or two-day weekend tournaments the team is used to during the school year. The students focused on staying hydrated, resting, eating well and other healthy behaviors to maintain their stamina for the multiple rounds of competition.All of the students gave credit to their coaches: Kim Heath, Dan Heath and Pamela Williams, for their unwavering support and belief in their abilities. Anna Bitter said the coaching staff’s determination helped the team members believe that they were "worthy” of competing at Nationals. “The time they spent working in preparation and their willingness to just spend time with us is a testament to how much they believe in us," she said.The team members and coaches would also like to thank the Board of Education, whose commitment to educational excellence paved the way for the students' success. Additionally, the GBHS administration's unwavering support played a crucial role in preparing the competitors for the prestigious event. Finally, the team also extends heartfelt thanks to generous alumni donors whose contributions ensured that the students had the resources and opportunities needed to excel. These combined efforts have left a lasting impact and served as a reminder to students to pay it forward and support future participants in this activity.With the National Speech &amp; Debate Association (NSDA) tournament concluded, the 2023-24 debate and speech season has officially ended. The GBHS Panthers look forward to the upcoming fall debate competitions and are eager to build on their successes.

Great Bend HS speech & debate team excels at National Tournament

Stueder Contractors announced its recent donation to the Golden Belt Community Concert Association, an organization dedicated to bringing professional musicians to the Great Bend City Auditorium. This donation includes all labor and parts necessary to renovate the dated dressing rooms at the City Auditorium.

Founded in 1937, the Golden Belt Community Concert Association has been a cultural cornerstone of Great Bend, offering the community an opportunity to experience live performances from talented musicians and artists. The concerts have consistently drawn large audiences, often filling the auditorium with about 1,000 attendees. Despite the success of these events, the facilities for performers have not seen significant updates in many years, leading to discomfort and inconvenience for the artists.

Stueder Contractors accepted the association's request for help. The comprehensive renovation of the dressing rooms includes modernized facilities that will enhance the experience for the performers.

"At Stueder Contractors, we believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for so many years," said Terry Stueder, owner of Stueder Contractors. "The Golden Belt Community Concert Association brings joy and culture to Great Bend, and we are thrilled to contribute to their efforts by improving the city's auditorium. We hope these upgrades will help the association continue to attract top-tier talent and provide memorable experiences for both the musicians and the audience."

The refurbishment of the dressing rooms includes upgraded multiple electrical outlets, better lighting and new mirrors. The dressing room to the right of the stage now features a new sink with new faucets, running water and proper drainage. Stueder Contractors has agreed to continue making improvements as time allows.

The Golden Belt Community Concert Association expressed their gratitude: "We send a BIG thank-you to Stueder Contractors for their generosity."

The Golden Belt Community Concert Association would welcome any additional monetary contributions from any members who wish to help with replacing the 1950s-style furniture in both dressing rooms.

The entire community is invited to join in celebrating this enhancement and to look forward to another season of musical performances beginning with ‘Timeless Hits of Billy Joel’ starring Jim Witter, Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719329740150.jpeg" alt="After picture from renovations in the dressing room at the Great Bend City Auditorium." />
 <figcaption>After picture from renovations in the dressing room at the Great Bend City Auditorium.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSStueder Contractors announced its recent donation to the Golden Belt Community Concert Association, an organization dedicated to bringing professional musicians to the Great Bend City Auditorium. This donation includes all labor and parts necessary to renovate the dated dressing rooms at the City Auditorium.Founded in 1937, the Golden Belt Community Concert Association has been a cultural cornerstone of Great Bend, offering the community an opportunity to experience live performances from talented musicians and artists. The concerts have consistently drawn large audiences, often filling the auditorium with about 1,000 attendees. Despite the success of these events, the facilities for performers have not seen significant updates in many years, leading to discomfort and inconvenience for the artists.Stueder Contractors accepted the association's request for help. The comprehensive renovation of the dressing rooms includes modernized facilities that will enhance the experience for the performers."At Stueder Contractors, we believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for so many years," said Terry Stueder, owner of Stueder Contractors. "The Golden Belt Community Concert Association brings joy and culture to Great Bend, and we are thrilled to contribute to their efforts by improving the city's auditorium. We hope these upgrades will help the association continue to attract top-tier talent and provide memorable experiences for both the musicians and the audience."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719329782787.jpeg" alt="Before picture of dressing room." />
 <figcaption>Before picture of dressing room.</figcaption>
 </figure>The refurbishment of the dressing rooms includes upgraded multiple electrical outlets, better lighting and new mirrors. The dressing room to the right of the stage now features a new sink with new faucets, running water and proper drainage. Stueder Contractors has agreed to continue making improvements as time allows.The Golden Belt Community Concert Association expressed their gratitude: "We send a BIG thank-you to Stueder Contractors for their generosity."The Golden Belt Community Concert Association would welcome any additional monetary contributions from any members who wish to help with replacing the 1950s-style furniture in both dressing rooms.The entire community is invited to join in celebrating this enhancement and to look forward to another season of musical performances beginning with ‘Timeless Hits of Billy Joel’ starring Jim Witter, Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719329804148.jpeg" alt="After picture of dressing room" />
 <figcaption>After picture of dressing room</figcaption>
 </figure>

Dressing rooms get update at Great Bend City Auditorium

On Tuesday, June 25, at approximately 7:04 p.m., an officer with the Great Bend Police Department conducted a traffic stop at Kwik Kar Wash,  4920 10th Street. The driver, Joshua Frydendall, jumped out of the vehicle and started to run around the corner of the car wash. Frydendall was located a short distance away and escorted back to the vehicle. 

Great Bend Police Department K-9 Niko was deployed and subsequently alerted to the vehicle. Through investigation, a sizeable quantity of suspected methamphetamine was located. Frydendall was arrested and booked in lieu of bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719495666887.jpeg" alt="Joshua Frydendall" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Frydendall</figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, June 25, at approximately 7:04 p.m., an officer with the Great Bend Police Department conducted a traffic stop at Kwik Kar Wash, 4920 10th Street. The driver, Joshua Frydendall, jumped out of the vehicle and started to run around the corner of the car wash. Frydendall was located a short distance away and escorted back to the vehicle. Great Bend Police Department K-9 Niko was deployed and subsequently alerted to the vehicle. Through investigation, a sizeable quantity of suspected methamphetamine was located. Frydendall was arrested and booked in lieu of bond.

Meth located after Great Bend driver tries to flee traffic stop

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/26)

At 3:16 a.m. an accident was reported at NE 130 Avenue &amp;
NE 200 Road in Claflin.

At 9:28 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 130
Avenue &amp; NE 160 Road in Claflin.

At 3:08 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 574 SE 130
Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 8 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 10th
&amp; Pine.

At 9:15 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 117 on W. K-4
Highway in Hoisington.

At 10:19 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 212 on
E. US 56 Highway.

At 10:40 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 2400 block of
Williams Street.

At 11:22 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 12th
&amp; Wilson.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (6/26)

At 9:30 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3121 Meadowlark
Ln.

At 12:49 p.m. a report of Joshua Tisdale making threats in
district court was made at 1305 Patton Road.

At 3:33 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 2000
block of Kansas Avenue.

At 4:50 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 1500
block of Williams Street.

At 8 p.m. an officer assisted BTSO on a traffic stop at 10th
&amp; Pine.

At 10:28 p.m. Janie Strange reported a parking complaint at
2925 Gano.

At 10:53 p.m. Jeremy Enochs reported loud music at 1101
Kansas Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (6/26)Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:16 a.m. an accident was reported at NE 130 Avenue &amp;
NE 200 Road in Claflin.Cattle OutAt 9:28 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 130
Avenue &amp; NE 160 Road in Claflin.Animal ComplaintAt 3:08 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 574 SE 130
Avenue in Ellinwood.Traffic ArrestAt 8 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 10th
&amp; Pine.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:15 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 117 on W. K-4
Highway in Hoisington.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:19 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 212 on
E. US 56 Highway.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 10:40 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 2400 block of
Williams Street.At 11:22 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 12th
&amp; Wilson.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (6/26)Diabetic ProblemsAt 9:30 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3121 Meadowlark
Ln.Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 12:49 p.m. a report of Joshua Tisdale making threats in
district court was made at 1305 Patton Road.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:33 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 2000
block of Kansas Avenue.At 4:50 p.m. K-9 Niko was used on a traffic stop in the 1500
block of Williams Street.Traffic ArrestAt 8 p.m. an officer assisted BTSO on a traffic stop at 10th
&amp; Pine.Parking ComplaintAt 10:28 p.m. Janie Strange reported a parking complaint at
2925 Gano.Noise ComplaintAt 10:53 p.m. Jeremy Enochs reported loud music at 1101
Kansas Avenue.

Cop Shop (6/26)

6/26 BOOKED: Chantel Poppelreiter on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault and Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Richard Gonzales on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: William Dunn on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Jesus Vizcarra-Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint, to ICE.

RELEASED: Chantel Poppelreiter on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault and Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Richard Gonzales on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>6/26 BOOKED: Chantel Poppelreiter on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault and Domestic Battery, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Richard Gonzales on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: William Dunn on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $5,000 C/S.RELEASED: Jesus Vizcarra-Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint, to ICE.RELEASED: Chantel Poppelreiter on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Assault and Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Richard Gonzales on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (6/26)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Residents in Great Bend will have a few chances to watch fireworks this Independence Day weekend. The city of Great Bend will present its fireworks display on Wednesday, July 3 at the Great Bend Expo Complex west of town. Associate Pastor Jake Newman said Encounter Church, 601 S. Patton Road, will host its fourth annual All-American Celebration on Sunday, July 7.

"We were going to do it the same night the city is doing their fireworks," he said. "We were going to do it on the third. The guy who does our display couldn't do it that day, so we just pushed it back."

The All-American Celebration continues to grow. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature free bounce houses, hot dogs, and face painting. The celebration will also include a cornhole tournament that teams may enter for $20. Newman estimated between 500 and 600 people attended the 2022 version, which grew even larger last summer.

"I think last year we had about 700 people," he said. "It's just continuing to get bigger and bigger. It's a great thing being able to do something for the community where the people come out, have a good time, and just kick back and relax."

Addison Baxter handles the fireworks displays for the celebration. The fireworks show is set to begin after dark.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686839175712.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostResidents in Great Bend will have a few chances to watch fireworks this Independence Day weekend. The city of Great Bend will present its fireworks display on Wednesday, July 3 at the Great Bend Expo Complex west of town. Associate Pastor Jake Newman said Encounter Church, 601 S. Patton Road, will host its fourth annual All-American Celebration on Sunday, July 7."We were going to do it the same night the city is doing their fireworks," he said. "We were going to do it on the third. The guy who does our display couldn't do it that day, so we just pushed it back."The All-American Celebration continues to grow. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature free bounce houses, hot dogs, and face painting. The celebration will also include a cornhole tournament that teams may enter for $20. Newman estimated between 500 and 600 people attended the 2022 version, which grew even larger last summer."I think last year we had about 700 people," he said. "It's just continuing to get bigger and bigger. It's a great thing being able to do something for the community where the people come out, have a good time, and just kick back and relax."Addison Baxter handles the fireworks displays for the celebration. The fireworks show is set to begin after dark.

Great Bend's Encounter Church hosting 4th annual All-American Celebration

Stafford County Economic Development Inc. is thrilled to announce we have been selected to receive a 2024 AARP Community Challenge grant. We are one of only 343 grantees selected (out of 3,300+ applications!) from across all 50 states, Washington D.C, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

With this quick-action grant we will building out 4 pickleball courts and then working toward having a pickleball tournament.

“We are incredibly proud that AARP selected Stafford County Economic Development Inc. for this investment to make St. John more livable for residents of all ages,” stated Executive Director Ryan Russell. “AARP is a nationwide leader in making communities more livable and we are honored that they see the tangible value this project will bring to our area.”

Russell mentioned the project is set to begin Friday and will take a couple of months to complete.

About the AARP Community Challenge The AARP Community Challenge grant program funds innovative, quick-action projects that inspire change in areas such as public places; housing; transportation; digital connectivity; community resilience; and more. With additional funding support provided by Toyota Motor North America, the program is also increasing its investment in pedestrian safety projects that will improve streets and sidewalks, create vibrant pedestrian infrastructure, engage community members and much more.

This is all part of AARP’s nationwide work on livable communities, which supports the efforts of neighborhoods, towns, cities and counties across the country to become great places for all. AARP believes that communities should provide safe, walkable streets; affordable and accessible housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community life.

To learn more about the projects being funded by the AARP Community Challenge across the nation, including all 343 granted projects this year, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge. You can also view an interactive map of current and past AARP Community Challenge projects and AARP’s Livable Communities work at aarp.org/livable.

Stafford County Economic Development Inc. is thrilled to announce we have been selected to receive a 2024 AARP Community Challenge grant. We are one of only 343 grantees selected (out of 3,300+ applications!) from across all 50 states, Washington D.C, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.With this quick-action grant we will building out 4 pickleball courts and then working toward having a pickleball tournament.“We are incredibly proud that AARP selected Stafford County Economic Development Inc. for this investment to make St. John more livable for residents of all ages,” stated Executive Director Ryan Russell. “AARP is a nationwide leader in making communities more livable and we are honored that they see the tangible value this project will bring to our area.”Russell mentioned the project is set to begin Friday and will take a couple of months to complete.About the AARP Community Challenge The AARP Community Challenge grant program funds innovative, quick-action projects that inspire change in areas such as public places; housing; transportation; digital connectivity; community resilience; and more. With additional funding support provided by Toyota Motor North America, the program is also increasing its investment in pedestrian safety projects that will improve streets and sidewalks, create vibrant pedestrian infrastructure, engage community members and much more.This is all part of AARP’s nationwide work on livable communities, which supports the efforts of neighborhoods, towns, cities and counties across the country to become great places for all. AARP believes that communities should provide safe, walkable streets; affordable and accessible housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities for residents to participate in community life.To learn more about the projects being funded by the AARP Community Challenge across the nation, including all 343 granted projects this year, visit aarp.org/CommunityChallenge. You can also view an interactive map of current and past AARP Community Challenge projects and AARP’s Livable Communities work at aarp.org/livable.

Grant received to create pickleball courts in St. John

Today A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 84. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.

Tonight A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Friday A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Heat index values as high as 105. South wind 14 to 17 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.

Friday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. West-northwest wind 7 to 9 mph becoming north-northeast after midnight.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. North-northeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 83.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70.

Monday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Breezy.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 77.

Tuesday Sunny and hot, with a high near 100.

Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.

Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 84. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.Tonight A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Friday A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Heat index values as high as 105. South wind 14 to 17 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.Friday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. West-northwest wind 7 to 9 mph becoming north-northeast after midnight.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. North-northeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 83.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70.Monday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Breezy.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 77.Tuesday Sunny and hot, with a high near 100.Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

The Walnut and Dry Walnut Creeks wind their way across Northeast 20 Avenue approximately one mile east of the 24th and Frey Street intersection in Great Bend. The result is two small bridges on the gravel road. Tuesday morning, Barton County Engineer Barry McManaman approached the county commission for approval to begin the replacement of Off-System Bridge No. 189.

"This bridge is only 18 feet wide and it has the tall, standup parapet rails on both sides so you really can't get equipment through it," he told the commission. "It's very similar to the one we just got through replacing east of Kiowa Kitchen on East Barton County Road. (That bridge) was actually 19 feet wide. To my knowledge, this is the narrowest bridge we have in the county, and it has an S-curve that's pretty sharp."

McManaman said Bridge 189 has been on the county's radar for a while and was scheduled for work in 2011 before the Kansas Department of Transportation switched to its federal funds exchange program. Work on the bridge was canceled. McManaman submitted bridge applications for several years but was never successful. Through KDOT's Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program, the county can now get some assistance to replace the bridge. Kirkham Michael was the lone firm to express interest in creating a design for the project.

"The concept has been that the bridge would move slightly to the west," McManaman said. "By doing that, we would have the opportunity to smooth out those curves so we wouldn't have such severe curves. In regards to that, the power lines may have to move. If they're located on public right-of-way currently, the law is they have to do it at their expense because we give them permission to locate on public right-of-way."

The commission approved the design work by Kirkham Michael for $74,000. The firm will present three designs, all of which include some changes to the road.

"There's going to be some consideration for the commissioners to give as far as how much roadway alignment we want to have," McManaman said. "We can move the bridge a little bit to the west and maybe it will retain a little bit of its sharpness. The further you extend those approaches out from the bridge, you can start really smoothening it out."

Commissioner Tricia Schlessiger asked McManaman how the changes would impact area properties. McManaman said because the bridge would be moving to the west, the properties on the east side of the road should not be impacted, but some trees to the north of the bridge may need to be removed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719422704852.jpeg" alt="The Barton County Commission approved a bid for three designs to replace Off-System Bridge No. 189 approximately one mile east of Great Bend on Northeast 20 Ave. Kirkham Michael will complete the designs." />
 <figcaption>The Barton County Commission approved a bid for three designs to replace Off-System Bridge No. 189 approximately one mile east of Great Bend on Northeast 20 Ave. Kirkham Michael will complete the designs.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Walnut and Dry Walnut Creeks wind their way across Northeast 20 Avenue approximately one mile east of the 24th and Frey Street intersection in Great Bend. The result is two small bridges on the gravel road. Tuesday morning, Barton County Engineer Barry McManaman approached the county commission for approval to begin the replacement of Off-System Bridge No. 189."This bridge is only 18 feet wide and it has the tall, standup parapet rails on both sides so you really can't get equipment through it," he told the commission. "It's very similar to the one we just got through replacing east of Kiowa Kitchen on East Barton County Road. (That bridge) was actually 19 feet wide. To my knowledge, this is the narrowest bridge we have in the county, and it has an S-curve that's pretty sharp."McManaman said Bridge 189 has been on the county's radar for a while and was scheduled for work in 2011 before the Kansas Department of Transportation switched to its federal funds exchange program. Work on the bridge was canceled. McManaman submitted bridge applications for several years but was never successful. Through KDOT's Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program, the county can now get some assistance to replace the bridge. Kirkham Michael was the lone firm to express interest in creating a design for the project."The concept has been that the bridge would move slightly to the west," McManaman said. "By doing that, we would have the opportunity to smooth out those curves so we wouldn't have such severe curves. In regards to that, the power lines may have to move. If they're located on public right-of-way currently, the law is they have to do it at their expense because we give them permission to locate on public right-of-way."The commission approved the design work by Kirkham Michael for $74,000. The firm will present three designs, all of which include some changes to the road."There's going to be some consideration for the commissioners to give as far as how much roadway alignment we want to have," McManaman said. "We can move the bridge a little bit to the west and maybe it will retain a little bit of its sharpness. The further you extend those approaches out from the bridge, you can start really smoothening it out."Commissioner Tricia Schlessiger asked McManaman how the changes would impact area properties. McManaman said because the bridge would be moving to the west, the properties on the east side of the road should not be impacted, but some trees to the north of the bridge may need to be removed.

Barton Commission approves design work on bridge east of Great Bend

A decision out of the Kansas state legislature's special session on June 18 was good for taxpayers, but not necessarily good for taxing entities and county clerks across the state. As taxing entities work to finalize budgets for next year, an increase to the school tax exemption from $42,049 to $75,000 was passed last Tuesday. Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler said that information was not made available to clerk's offices that send out the paperwork for those budgets until several days later.

"We got the directive on Friday, June 21, in the afternoon, that we would have to start over, redo our abstract, and redo budget sheets for all the taxing entities," she said. "So the work started again on Friday afternoon and started over the process."

The change will show up as a tax credit on property tax statements. The figure recently doubled from $46 to $92, and the new change will mean taxpayers receive up to nearly $172 on tax statements next year. Clerk's offices typically have until June 15 to certify budgets and return them to taxing entities. With the late change, that deadline has been extended to July 1 this year. County Counselor Patrick Hoffman said it will impact all taxing entities across the state.

"The cities and entities that are in touch with their leagues and their associations will be hearing about it as long as they're checking their email," he said. "But there are always some people who are not plugged in."

Tuesday's bill approved in Topeka is expected to reduce state revenue by nearly $2 billion over the next five years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659408772654.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA decision out of the Kansas state legislature's special session on June 18 was good for taxpayers, but not necessarily good for taxing entities and county clerks across the state. As taxing entities work to finalize budgets for next year, an increase to the school tax exemption from $42,049 to $75,000 was passed last Tuesday. Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler said that information was not made available to clerk's offices that send out the paperwork for those budgets until several days later."We got the directive on Friday, June 21, in the afternoon, that we would have to start over, redo our abstract, and redo budget sheets for all the taxing entities," she said. "So the work started again on Friday afternoon and started over the process."The change will show up as a tax credit on property tax statements. The figure recently doubled from $46 to $92, and the new change will mean taxpayers receive up to nearly $172 on tax statements next year. Clerk's offices typically have until June 15 to certify budgets and return them to taxing entities. With the late change, that deadline has been extended to July 1 this year. County Counselor Patrick Hoffman said it will impact all taxing entities across the state."The cities and entities that are in touch with their leagues and their associations will be hearing about it as long as they're checking their email," he said. "But there are always some people who are not plugged in."Tuesday's bill approved in Topeka is expected to reduce state revenue by nearly $2 billion over the next five years.

Barton Co. Clerk: Special session in Topeka resulting in paperwork delays

Chinch bugs in Kansas are a perennial pest of just about any type of grass. They have caused problems in turf farms, golf courses, and lawns. In crops, they mainly affect sorghum but are occasionally problematic in corn and wheat, says Jeff Whitworth, K-State Extension Entomologist.

With all of the chinch bug activity in central and west central Kansas, this is a good time to discuss the differences between chinch bugs (Blissus leucopterus) and false chinch bugs (Nysius sp.). In order to make proper management decisions, knowing how to correctly identify these insects is critical, says Anthony Zukoff, K-State Extension Entomologist”.

Adult chinch bugs are 3-4mm (0.16”) long bugs with black bodies and white wings that are kept folded over their backs. Two dark, triangular markings are present near the center of the wings creating a distinctive “X” mark.

Adult false chinch bugs are very similar in appearance, but smaller. Instead of having black bodies, false chinch bugs are brownish-gray with clear wings that lack a distinct “X” mark, says Anthony.

Immature chinch bugs are bright red after hatching, darkening to black as they go through a series of 5 molts. A distinct white band will be visible across the nymphs’ bodies until the wing buds become large enough to obscure it.

Immature false chinch bugs are grayish-brown, never bright red, and lack the white band across their bodies.

Damage Chinch bugs and false chinch bugs are true bugs in the order Hemiptera which means they both have piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to puncture plant tissue to feed on plant juices. However, the symptoms of feeding appear differently for these two bugs. When chinch bugs feed, digestive enzymes are injected into the plant tissue causing it to break down and discolor. Reddish spots often are present at chinch bug feeding sites. Heavy chinch bug feeding can also cause stunting, wilting and necrotic lesions on plants. False chinch bug feeding, on the other hand, usually has little effect on plants, but extreme numbers of the bugs on a plant can cause wilting and death.

Additional details on life history and management recommendations for these two pests can be found in the following Kansas Crop Pest publications. 

Chinch Bug: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3107.pdf False Chinch bug: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3047.pdf

Information provided by Anthony Zukoff and Jeff Whitworth K-State Extension Entomologists.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Chinch bugs in Kansas are a perennial pest of just about any type of grass. They have caused problems in turf farms, golf courses, and lawns. In crops, they mainly affect sorghum but are occasionally problematic in corn and wheat, says Jeff Whitworth, K-State Extension Entomologist.With all of the chinch bug activity in central and west central Kansas, this is a good time to discuss the differences between chinch bugs (Blissus leucopterus) and false chinch bugs (Nysius sp.). In order to make proper management decisions, knowing how to correctly identify these insects is critical, says Anthony Zukoff, K-State Extension Entomologist”.Adult chinch bugs are 3-4mm (0.16”) long bugs with black bodies and white wings that are kept folded over their backs. Two dark, triangular markings are present near the center of the wings creating a distinctive “X” mark.Adult false chinch bugs are very similar in appearance, but smaller. Instead of having black bodies, false chinch bugs are brownish-gray with clear wings that lack a distinct “X” mark, says Anthony.Immature chinch bugs are bright red after hatching, darkening to black as they go through a series of 5 molts. A distinct white band will be visible across the nymphs’ bodies until the wing buds become large enough to obscure it.Immature false chinch bugs are grayish-brown, never bright red, and lack the white band across their bodies.Damage Chinch bugs and false chinch bugs are true bugs in the order Hemiptera which means they both have piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to puncture plant tissue to feed on plant juices. However, the symptoms of feeding appear differently for these two bugs. When chinch bugs feed, digestive enzymes are injected into the plant tissue causing it to break down and discolor. Reddish spots often are present at chinch bug feeding sites. Heavy chinch bug feeding can also cause stunting, wilting and necrotic lesions on plants. False chinch bug feeding, on the other hand, usually has little effect on plants, but extreme numbers of the bugs on a plant can cause wilting and death.Additional details on life history and management recommendations for these two pests can be found in the following Kansas Crop Pest publications. Chinch Bug: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3107.pdf False Chinch bug: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3047.pdfInformation provided by Anthony Zukoff and Jeff Whitworth K-State Extension Entomologists.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Identifying chinch bugs and false chinch bugs

On Tuesday, June 25, at approximately 11:52 p.m., officers of the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to the 5200 block of Timber Creek Circle in Great Bend in reference to a domestic disturbance. Officers were advised a female was threatening a family member with a weapon inside the house. 

Upon officers arrival, they made contact with the victim and an investigation was done. Chantel Poppelreiter was placed under arrest for aggravated assault. Poppelreiter was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked in lieu of bond.

If anyone has information regarding this 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.

On Tuesday, June 25, at approximately 11:52 p.m., officers of the Great Bend Police Department were dispatched to the 5200 block of Timber Creek Circle in Great Bend in reference to a domestic disturbance. Officers were advised a female was threatening a family member with a weapon inside the house. Upon officers arrival, they made contact with the victim and an investigation was done. Chantel Poppelreiter was placed under arrest for aggravated assault. Poppelreiter was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked in lieu of bond.If anyone has information regarding this 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.

Great Bend woman arrested for aggravated assault

An Expo II building full of commercial exhibitors is expected at the Barton County Fair from June 27-29. A special guest Thursday morning will be staff from the Barton County Health Department as part of the Be Well Barton County Health Fair. Health Department Director Karen Winkelman said lab services will be offered from 7:30 to 9 a.m. that morning.

"We're going to take our Healthy Living Lab, so if any individuals would like to have those lab services performed, we will actually be drawing blood there," she said. "We will have tetanus shots there - tetanus, diptheria, and pertussis (Tdap)."

Health department staff will also be providing blood pressure checks and WIC eligibility signups. Winkelman has challenged her staff to put together visual demonstrations of the various services provided by the health department, including Safe Sleep education. The health department's mobile wellness lab will also be on site for exploration.

Tdap vaccines are billable for clients with insurance, and a limited number of free vaccines will be available for those without insurance. A $10 draw fee will apply for any lab work in addition to fees for the lab work requested. 

<a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Health%20Department%7CHealthy%20Living%20Laboratory%20Services">CLICK HERE</a> for a list of lab work available and fees associated with each test.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718892432266.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAn Expo II building full of commercial exhibitors is expected at the Barton County Fair from June 27-29. A special guest Thursday morning will be staff from the Barton County Health Department as part of the Be Well Barton County Health Fair. Health Department Director Karen Winkelman said lab services will be offered from 7:30 to 9 a.m. that morning."We're going to take our Healthy Living Lab, so if any individuals would like to have those lab services performed, we will actually be drawing blood there," she said. "We will have tetanus shots there - tetanus, diptheria, and pertussis (Tdap)."Health department staff will also be providing blood pressure checks and WIC eligibility signups. Winkelman has challenged her staff to put together visual demonstrations of the various services provided by the health department, including Safe Sleep education. The health department's mobile wellness lab will also be on site for exploration.Tdap vaccines are billable for clients with insurance, and a limited number of free vaccines will be available for those without insurance. A $10 draw fee will apply for any lab work in addition to fees for the lab work requested. <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Health%20Department%7CHealthy%20Living%20Laboratory%20Services">CLICK HERE</a> for a list of lab work available and fees associated with each test.

Barton Co. Health Dept. taking lab services to Expo II Thursday morning

City Fire is working on an active structure fire in the 1500 block of North Elm. Please avoid the area for firefighter and first responder safety.

From the City of Russell...City Fire is working on an active structure fire in the 1500 block of North Elm. Please avoid the area for firefighter and first responder safety.

Crews working on structure fire on N. Elm in Russell

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Barton Community College Board of Trustees member Don Learned publicly
announced his resignation from the board at Tuesday’s meeting. After 19
consecutive years as a trustee, Learned and his wife are moving to Texas later
this summer.


Approving Learned’s resignation, the board will publish a public notice of the
vacancy and the mission to find a replacement. The appointed community member
will serve Learned’s remaining term which ends December 31, 2025.
Those interested in filling the unexpired term may contact the college’s
president’s office. Applications must be received by Aug. 9 at
3 p.m.

"The trustees will discuss those applicants on August 13 at our study session," said Trustees Chairman Mike Johnson. "All applicants will be encouraged to attend. There's a pretty lengthy packet they can receive from the President's Office that has a number of questions the board requests that they answer."

Learned retired from USD 428 in Great Bend in 1992 as the principal at Roosevelt Jr. High School. He then worked as a substitute teacher. Learned was presented the R.O.S.E. Award from USD 428 this spring, recognizing his outstanding support of education...66 years of support.


Learned’s last meeting will be Aug. 27, the same meeting that his
replacement will be announced.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719341948774.jpeg" alt="Photo from USD 428" />
 <figcaption>Photo from USD 428</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostBarton Community College Board of Trustees member Don Learned publicly
announced his resignation from the board at Tuesday’s meeting. After 19
consecutive years as a trustee, Learned and his wife are moving to Texas later
this summer.
Approving Learned’s resignation, the board will publish a public notice of the
vacancy and the mission to find a replacement. The appointed community member
will serve Learned’s remaining term which ends December 31, 2025.
Those interested in filling the unexpired term may contact the college’s
president’s office. Applications must be received by Aug. 9 at
3 p.m."The trustees will discuss those applicants on August 13 at our study session," said Trustees Chairman Mike Johnson. "All applicants will be encouraged to attend. There's a pretty lengthy packet they can receive from the President's Office that has a number of questions the board requests that they answer."Learned retired from USD 428 in Great Bend in 1992 as the principal at Roosevelt Jr. High School. He then worked as a substitute teacher. Learned was presented the R.O.S.E. Award from USD 428 this spring, recognizing his outstanding support of education...66 years of support.
Learned’s last meeting will be Aug. 27, the same meeting that his
replacement will be announced.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Learned resigning from Barton Trustee position after 19 years

Hear this week's Cougar Pause show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton Community College Construction Technology instructor Matt Mazouch that aired June 24, 2024.

The Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's Cougar Pause show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton Community College Construction Technology instructor Matt Mazouch that aired June 24, 2024.<div><iframe title="Cougar Pause: Barton CC Carpentry Instructor Matt Mazouch" 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=n8yg9-164f9da-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 Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Barton CC Construction Tech Instructor Mazouch

The purpose of Wednesday morning's USD 428 Board of Education special meeting was to approve end-of-year budget expenditures and transfers, and approve changes to the school calendar as it relates to staff contracts for the next two years. But first, the board continued its discussion from June 10 regarding a contract to provide meals for Bright Beginnings in Great Bend. The board ultimately voted 6-1 to approve a 12-month contract to provide meals to the new daycare facility in Great Bend. Randy Wetzel was one of the six board members to vote for the contract.

"They're Great Bend kids," he said. "They're our kids, and our job is to take care of our kids in our community. They're going to be in our district at some point. It isn't costing us a dime. In fact, we're making enough to cover the extra cost."

The board first heard of the contract during the lengthy June 10 meeting. After discussion, the body agreed to table a vote on the contract until the special meeting. District preschool students will pay $3.85 for breakfast and lunches next year. Bright Beginnings students will pay $5 for the same meals to offset any additional costs accrued by the district. Board Member Sara Williams said various outside entities have contracts with the school district.

"I don't understand why this is coming to the board," she said. "I don't think it's for us. I think we have excellent administrators who make these decisions and keep those things clicking along. To wait for the board meeting for the board to have to make a decision, I think it's micromanaging and slows down business."

Board Member Chad Burroughs again expressed opposition to the contract and was the lone vote against it. He brought up concerns about the timeline of when Bright Beginnings will be able to provide its own meals, especially as the district moves its Summer Lunch Program from five elementary buildings to three as of July 1.

"Here, next month, we're going to not be providing meals at two of our locations," he said. "That's 310 kids who won't able to (eat) at those buildings, yet we're still going to deliver 10 meals to Bright Beginnings. I just don't really want us to turn into a DoorDash for 10 kids when we're shutting down two buildings serving 310 kids."

Wetzel said the 310 kids will still be able to access the free meal program at the other locations, and Superintendent Khris Thexton said the program has worked that way every summer.

Burroughs also said the cost of providing the meals is not a concern, it's the principle of using district resources for a private facility. Board Vice President Aaron Emerson agreed it's not about the money.

"It is in state statute that we have to be fully recouped for any agreement like this, specifically any agreements with daycares if we provide food to them," Emerson said. "I'm sure (Food Services Director Kristy Alvord) is aware of that, and I'm sure our auditors will pick up on that being a new contract and making sure we are fully reimbursed for anything we give out."

Burroughs also expressed concerns about other daycares that may want to use similar district services. Wetzel and Board President Jacquie Disque did not see that being an issue.

"Let's take care of the kids," Wetzel said. "I don't think it's going to balloon up. If I had a daycare, I think it'd be cheaper for me to prepare my meals than it would be to pay $5, so I don't see it as happening. If it does, we'll deal with it when it happens."

"I tend to agree, I don't think every private daycare town will come running and want us to do it," Disque said. "There may be some other commercial, non-profit daycares that want to. There may be some for profit. I think I trust (district administration) to make those decisions about whether or not that's where we want to go."

The board could have denied a contract or approved six or 12-month options. Deanna Essmiller made the motion for the 12-month contract. Board Member Karen Lindberg earlier reiterated the importance of providing support for the community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719413589203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe purpose of Wednesday morning's USD 428 Board of Education special meeting was to approve end-of-year budget expenditures and transfers, and approve changes to the school calendar as it relates to staff contracts for the next two years. But first, the board continued its discussion from June 10 regarding a contract to provide meals for Bright Beginnings in Great Bend. The board ultimately voted 6-1 to approve a 12-month contract to provide meals to the new daycare facility in Great Bend. Randy Wetzel was one of the six board members to vote for the contract."They're Great Bend kids," he said. "They're our kids, and our job is to take care of our kids in our community. They're going to be in our district at some point. It isn't costing us a dime. In fact, we're making enough to cover the extra cost."The board first heard of the contract during the lengthy June 10 meeting. After discussion, the body agreed to table a vote on the contract until the special meeting. District preschool students will pay $3.85 for breakfast and lunches next year. Bright Beginnings students will pay $5 for the same meals to offset any additional costs accrued by the district. Board Member Sara Williams said various outside entities have contracts with the school district."I don't understand why this is coming to the board," she said. "I don't think it's for us. I think we have excellent administrators who make these decisions and keep those things clicking along. To wait for the board meeting for the board to have to make a decision, I think it's micromanaging and slows down business."Board Member Chad Burroughs again expressed opposition to the contract and was the lone vote against it. He brought up concerns about the timeline of when Bright Beginnings will be able to provide its own meals, especially as the district moves its Summer Lunch Program from five elementary buildings to three as of July 1."Here, next month, we're going to not be providing meals at two of our locations," he said. "That's 310 kids who won't able to (eat) at those buildings, yet we're still going to deliver 10 meals to Bright Beginnings. I just don't really want us to turn into a DoorDash for 10 kids when we're shutting down two buildings serving 310 kids."Wetzel said the 310 kids will still be able to access the free meal program at the other locations, and Superintendent Khris Thexton said the program has worked that way every summer.Burroughs also said the cost of providing the meals is not a concern, it's the principle of using district resources for a private facility. Board Vice President Aaron Emerson agreed it's not about the money."It is in state statute that we have to be fully recouped for any agreement like this, specifically any agreements with daycares if we provide food to them," Emerson said. "I'm sure (Food Services Director Kristy Alvord) is aware of that, and I'm sure our auditors will pick up on that being a new contract and making sure we are fully reimbursed for anything we give out."Burroughs also expressed concerns about other daycares that may want to use similar district services. Wetzel and Board President Jacquie Disque did not see that being an issue."Let's take care of the kids," Wetzel said. "I don't think it's going to balloon up. If I had a daycare, I think it'd be cheaper for me to prepare my meals than it would be to pay $5, so I don't see it as happening. If it does, we'll deal with it when it happens.""I tend to agree, I don't think every private daycare town will come running and want us to do it," Disque said. "There may be some other commercial, non-profit daycares that want to. There may be some for profit. I think I trust (district administration) to make those decisions about whether or not that's where we want to go."The board could have denied a contract or approved six or 12-month options. Deanna Essmiller made the motion for the 12-month contract. Board Member Karen Lindberg earlier reiterated the importance of providing support for the community."We rely on our community to support us as well," she said. "Our kids are going to be going out and selling Panther cards and that kind of stuff. Sometimes we're called to serve our community back. I feel like this is one of those times we need to serve our community."As an administrator, Assistant Superintendent John Popp did not vote on the contract, but he did offer his support."Kristy does a great job of running our food service program," he said. "Really, the only consideration for me was if Kristy says we can do it, and if the dollars make sense to her, then we can do it. If Kristy says we can do it and it's not an issue for her, that makes the decision for me."This story was edited with additional comments from board members.