By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Jack Manases, with Manases Enterprises, went before the Great Bend
Planning Commission and Great Bend City Council requesting to rezone real
estate at 1620 Baker Avenue. Manases purchased the R-2 (two-family) property
and wants to rezone the lot to C-2 (general commercial) to park his trailers
and equipment for his renovation and landscaping business. 

The lot is only 37.5’
wide. Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said with required
setbacks, the width of a structure could only be 12.5’, and city staff
recommended to reject the rezoning request.


"City staff recommended denial of the request due to spot zoning and residential zoning in the immediate vicinity of the subject property," said Burns. "If it is denied it will continue to be a vacant lot because of the size."

Manases plans to put an 8’ tall, screened fence around the property. 

The
Planning Commission rejected the city’s recommendation and approved the
rezoning request stating that it would be the only practical use of the
property due to being unbuildable. Councilmember Jolene Biggs and the rest of
the council voted to send the request back to the Planning Commission for
reconsideration.


"If this gets moved to the commercial zoning and the gentleman sells the property, per se...somebody could put in a welding shop and there is nothing there that the neighbors could do," said Biggs. "Once you've moved it into commercial, you don't have any control on what is going to go there...and here we are in a residential area."

The neighbor to the south of the Baker Avenue property had not inquired about
buying the lot due to it being a rental.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By COLE REIF Great Bend PostJack Manases, with Manases Enterprises, went before the Great Bend
Planning Commission and Great Bend City Council requesting to rezone real
estate at 1620 Baker Avenue. Manases purchased the R-2 (two-family) property
and wants to rezone the lot to C-2 (general commercial) to park his trailers
and equipment for his renovation and landscaping business. The lot is only 37.5’
wide. Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said with required
setbacks, the width of a structure could only be 12.5’, and city staff
recommended to reject the rezoning request.
"City staff recommended denial of the request due to spot zoning and residential zoning in the immediate vicinity of the subject property," said Burns. "If it is denied it will continue to be a vacant lot because of the size."Manases plans to put an 8’ tall, screened fence around the property. The
Planning Commission rejected the city’s recommendation and approved the
rezoning request stating that it would be the only practical use of the
property due to being unbuildable. Councilmember Jolene Biggs and the rest of
the council voted to send the request back to the Planning Commission for
reconsideration.
"If this gets moved to the commercial zoning and the gentleman sells the property, per se...somebody could put in a welding shop and there is nothing there that the neighbors could do," said Biggs. "Once you've moved it into commercial, you don't have any control on what is going to go there...and here we are in a residential area."The neighbor to the south of the Baker Avenue property had not inquired about
buying the lot due to it being a rental.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend council pauses rezoning Baker Ave. property

Let the summer activities begin. Each Thursday, from today through October, the Barton County Health Department and the city of Great Bend offer the Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market at Jack Kilby Square&nbsp; in downtown Great Bend from 4-7 p.m. The market features a variety of fresh produce and handmade items from local vendors.

"I know we're set for an exciting start," said Katelyn Sigler, educator at the Barton County Health Department. "In addition to our usual fresh produce and honey, we have some new offerings this season. Fresh strawberries will be available today, along with beautiful stained-glass pieces and other handmade items. Tomatoes will also be available today."

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program gives low-income seniors 60 years of age or older the opportunity to buy more fresh produce. Seniors who qualify for the program will receive 10 $5 certificates to be used throughout the 2024 Summer Stroll season. Interested seniors can apply for the program beginning June 3 at the Barton County Health Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673648949919.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Let the summer activities begin. Each Thursday, from today through October, the Barton County Health Department and the city of Great Bend offer the Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market at Jack Kilby Square&nbsp; in downtown Great Bend from 4-7 p.m. The market features a variety of fresh produce and handmade items from local vendors."I know we're set for an exciting start," said Katelyn Sigler, educator at the Barton County Health Department. "In addition to our usual fresh produce and honey, we have some new offerings this season. Fresh strawberries will be available today, along with beautiful stained-glass pieces and other handmade items. Tomatoes will also be available today."The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program gives low-income seniors 60 years of age or older the opportunity to buy more fresh produce. Seniors who qualify for the program will receive 10 $5 certificates to be used throughout the 2024 Summer Stroll season. Interested seniors can apply for the program beginning June 3 at the Barton County Health Department.

Great Bend Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market returns today

The city of Great Bend is ready for you and your family or business team to sign up for the 2024 Great Bend Business Olympics. Get your team together and join in the fun. Get your form&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=786727&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823826&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.greatbendks.net%2FDocumentCenter%2FView%2F3780%2F2024-Business--Family-Olympic-Registration-form%3FbidId%26fbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1NsKCZL95udyEB3SVv4FUVBBWejxHUXRasE1EnG9G1zH6sL9Jzm0MYvj4_aem_AfbbbtNlSbZ-a8DPPyNp4vGoUeXCPhbWLurCaWtYtSoDcFODlCuP2KkoyaDSMRixzYJhw4KHRKVSC333pNOzPuwG&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=b49fb825dc2c86926d59a428d9922e4b9e62d67efe4f1ad066b6230760b7ddbc" target="_blank">here</a>.

Get your full schedule of events for June Jaunt&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=786727&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823826&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fl.facebook.com%2Fl.php%3Fu%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.greatbendks.net%252FDocumentCenter%252FView%252F3774%252F2024-Final-Schedule%253FbidId%2526fbclid%253DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0gjxX92Twxs7ewXtdYG5U7tVx-YP6u7FQnqy7fCYYjxYG9NeCj7lQVVFI_aem_AfZrVy6i53stO2-9ImzWVjgJtY0OyszkTSV2UHnNUy88fjEZc_j4-YHk9mcfxvNdH_XdjoIV3pvOSqXdo-B8d97Q%26h%3DAT3DdDCoLGDm4tZOoBtS_FG74ezlcCHWp7nvJl_BBYbfPYEhF1zI7VVNPcVcmoVW7lIQbRAj3XRMTkQcqxLulNY-Bgc5mG5I56y5beco8gyvpN76YyOzYEDlqsepukvclg%26__tn__%3D-UK-R%26c%5B0%5D%3DAT2hq3Qu28MTua_EEl5MRr65ndKa0leY5fy8mwIxeGpgRSv2x1FAhYBI7Yd2eBjdxFmg1iXDqXKXvFbqWi5AXQ3Sqxvr0WwMdU0c5hdfhTSGjnroOSx1x7S0Y75KiTOBP6GnwXuchQmorSu_DGFw9TnmMp8ffNX-ti74qvpviBpsomu08JuQTUiun6ITMHI&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=2f4379c92d26f3268c956f61ce4693e8e80baf8cc07c141ab2c72b4b94b9749f" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716388948122.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The city of Great Bend is ready for you and your family or business team to sign up for the 2024 Great Bend Business Olympics. Get your team together and join in the fun. Get your form&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=786727&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823826&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.greatbendks.net%2FDocumentCenter%2FView%2F3780%2F2024-Business--Family-Olympic-Registration-form%3FbidId%26fbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1NsKCZL95udyEB3SVv4FUVBBWejxHUXRasE1EnG9G1zH6sL9Jzm0MYvj4_aem_AfbbbtNlSbZ-a8DPPyNp4vGoUeXCPhbWLurCaWtYtSoDcFODlCuP2KkoyaDSMRixzYJhw4KHRKVSC333pNOzPuwG&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=b49fb825dc2c86926d59a428d9922e4b9e62d67efe4f1ad066b6230760b7ddbc" target="_blank">here</a>.Get your full schedule of events for June Jaunt&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=786727&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823826&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fl.facebook.com%2Fl.php%3Fu%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.greatbendks.net%252FDocumentCenter%252FView%252F3774%252F2024-Final-Schedule%253FbidId%2526fbclid%253DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0gjxX92Twxs7ewXtdYG5U7tVx-YP6u7FQnqy7fCYYjxYG9NeCj7lQVVFI_aem_AfZrVy6i53stO2-9ImzWVjgJtY0OyszkTSV2UHnNUy88fjEZc_j4-YHk9mcfxvNdH_XdjoIV3pvOSqXdo-B8d97Q%26h%3DAT3DdDCoLGDm4tZOoBtS_FG74ezlcCHWp7nvJl_BBYbfPYEhF1zI7VVNPcVcmoVW7lIQbRAj3XRMTkQcqxLulNY-Bgc5mG5I56y5beco8gyvpN76YyOzYEDlqsepukvclg%26__tn__%3D-UK-R%26c%5B0%5D%3DAT2hq3Qu28MTua_EEl5MRr65ndKa0leY5fy8mwIxeGpgRSv2x1FAhYBI7Yd2eBjdxFmg1iXDqXKXvFbqWi5AXQ3Sqxvr0WwMdU0c5hdfhTSGjnroOSx1x7S0Y75KiTOBP6GnwXuchQmorSu_DGFw9TnmMp8ffNX-ti74qvpviBpsomu08JuQTUiun6ITMHI&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=2f4379c92d26f3268c956f61ce4693e8e80baf8cc07c141ab2c72b4b94b9749f" target="_blank">here</a>.

Sign up for Business Olympics at Great Bend's June Jaunt

5/22 BOOKED: Angel Armendariz-Galindo on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, total bond set at $2,250 C/S.

RELEASED: Alan Bobbitt on Barton County District Court cases for Probation Violation, Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Domestic Battery, and Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Lane Kitchel on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint, on 48-hour OR bond.

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

RELEASED: Angel Armendariz-Galindo on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>5/22 BOOKED: Angel Armendariz-Galindo on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, total bond set at $2,250 C/S.RELEASED: Alan Bobbitt on Barton County District Court cases for Probation Violation, Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Domestic Battery, and Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Lane Kitchel on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint, on 48-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Terrence Welcher on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Angel Armendariz-Galindo on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (5/22)

The Great Bend High School softball team will play in the Class 5A State Softball Tournament on Thursday, May 23 at 11 a.m. against Spring Hill in the 1st round.

You can listen to the game on 104.3 FM or online at <a href="https://b1043.net/#//">b1043.net</a>.

The Panthers' game from Wichita is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604702295823.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend High School softball team will play in the Class 5A State Softball Tournament on Thursday, May 23 at 11 a.m. against Spring Hill in the 1st round.You can listen to the game on 104.3 FM or online at <a href="https://b1043.net/#//">b1043.net</a>.The Panthers' game from Wichita is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.

🎧Listen LIVE: Great Bend 🥎 at State Tournament 

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today $400,000 is available under the Residential Opportunities on Main Street (ROOMS) grant program to support new upper-floor housing in commercial buildings in Designated Kansas Main Street communities.

“Main Street communities across the state long have been revitalizing their historic business districts and supporting economic vitality,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Increasing the amount of available upper-floor housing is essential to maximizing the economic potential of Main Streets across Kansas. ROOMS grants provide another powerful tool to breathe new life into their downtown areas.”

Upper-floor investments create new housing opportunities and can play an important role in addressing the shortage of quality housing, which regularly is identified as a major issue throughout Kansas. Upper-floor housing enhances the overall livability and functionality of downtowns. It also can lead to increased investment, improved infrastructure, a positive cycle of economic growth, a stronger tax base, and a greater sense of place and community identity.&nbsp;

“These types of projects are expensive and require funding from multiple sources,” Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell said. “The ROOMS grants offer a tremendous opportunity to help make these kinds of projects happen.”

ROOMS funds will be available to applicants within active Designated Kansas Main Street communities for projects that can be shown to lead directly to housing creation or retention in upper floors of existing buildings in the designated downtown area. Projects must incorporate Main Street design standards and follow local ordinances and code for improvements. Each eligible applicant may receive a single $50,000 grant.

To view a webinar recording about the ROOMS grant program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=786727&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823826&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.youtube.com%252Fwatch%253Fv%253D7ugNRn0c2b8%26data%3D05%257C02%257CGlorianna.Noland%2540ks.gov%257C9c8957a9544d4ad1815708dc7033d10d%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638508615053094659%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DQb%252FU0hDDJdDAlum4W9mmWiEVik%252BLrN2TzXu7QAXIl14%253D%26reserved%3D0&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=f5f3f7ca1978fc3092554af518be499ada256744816fa836f77fa5453d209f1a" target="_blank">here</a>. For more information about the Kansas Main Street program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=786727&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823826&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%252Fprogram%252Fcommunity-programs%252Fmain-street%252F%26data%3D05%257C02%257CGlorianna.Noland%2540ks.gov%257C9c8957a9544d4ad1815708dc7033d10d%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638508615053100302%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3Duzklp1g1NZxu62bGCtPxfwIBPetgDTWel%252Bv5Y%252BLgJ0I%253D%26reserved%3D0&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=673c83efe3e221290221778022f23dc465b16d74434163c379b49a65ba9465e4" target="_blank">here</a>.

Questions? Sara Arnberger, President of Great Bend Economic Development, Inc., can be reached via email at director@gbedinc.com, gbedinc.com, 620-796-2407.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687370675420.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today $400,000 is available under the Residential Opportunities on Main Street (ROOMS) grant program to support new upper-floor housing in commercial buildings in Designated Kansas Main Street communities.“Main Street communities across the state long have been revitalizing their historic business districts and supporting economic vitality,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Increasing the amount of available upper-floor housing is essential to maximizing the economic potential of Main Streets across Kansas. ROOMS grants provide another powerful tool to breathe new life into their downtown areas.”Upper-floor investments create new housing opportunities and can play an important role in addressing the shortage of quality housing, which regularly is identified as a major issue throughout Kansas. Upper-floor housing enhances the overall livability and functionality of downtowns. It also can lead to increased investment, improved infrastructure, a positive cycle of economic growth, a stronger tax base, and a greater sense of place and community identity.&nbsp;“These types of projects are expensive and require funding from multiple sources,” Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell said. “The ROOMS grants offer a tremendous opportunity to help make these kinds of projects happen.”ROOMS funds will be available to applicants within active Designated Kansas Main Street communities for projects that can be shown to lead directly to housing creation or retention in upper floors of existing buildings in the designated downtown area. Projects must incorporate Main Street design standards and follow local ordinances and code for improvements. Each eligible applicant may receive a single $50,000 grant.To view a webinar recording about the ROOMS grant program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=786727&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823826&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.youtube.com%252Fwatch%253Fv%253D7ugNRn0c2b8%26data%3D05%257C02%257CGlorianna.Noland%2540ks.gov%257C9c8957a9544d4ad1815708dc7033d10d%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638508615053094659%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DQb%252FU0hDDJdDAlum4W9mmWiEVik%252BLrN2TzXu7QAXIl14%253D%26reserved%3D0&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=f5f3f7ca1978fc3092554af518be499ada256744816fa836f77fa5453d209f1a" target="_blank">here</a>. For more information about the Kansas Main Street program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=33470319&amp;msgid=786727&amp;act=JQEP&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823826&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%252Fprogram%252Fcommunity-programs%252Fmain-street%252F%26data%3D05%257C02%257CGlorianna.Noland%2540ks.gov%257C9c8957a9544d4ad1815708dc7033d10d%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638508615053100302%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3Duzklp1g1NZxu62bGCtPxfwIBPetgDTWel%252Bv5Y%252BLgJ0I%253D%26reserved%3D0&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=673c83efe3e221290221778022f23dc465b16d74434163c379b49a65ba9465e4" target="_blank">here</a>.Questions? Sara Arnberger, President of Great Bend Economic Development, Inc., can be reached via email at director@gbedinc.com, gbedinc.com, 620-796-2407.

Great Bend downtown owners: Grants available for loft renovations

Time is winding down for anyone interested in Barton County that wants
to file for a local political office. The deadline to file is June 3 at 12 p.m. 

Outside of the Ellinwood Hospital District Board, there are no
contested races yet with city candidates in Barton County. Great Bend City
Administrator Brandon Anderson said there will be four ward positions for the
city council available in the upcoming primary election. 

"We have a position open in each ward," said Anderson. "Lindsey Krom-Craven in Ward 1 is up, Kevyn Soupiset in Ward 2, Davis Jimenez in Ward 3 and Tina Mingenback in Ward 4 is up."

For the Great Bend council, Gary Parr has filed for Ward 1 and current
councilmember Soupiset has refiled for Ward 2. No one has filed for Ward 3 or Ward 4.

On the Barton County Commission, Barb Esfeld and Shawn Hutchinson have refiled
and are currently uncontested. 


Interested individuals can pick up applications to file at the County Clerk’s
Office inside the courthouse in Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A list of candidates that filed can be found at <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Elections%7CCurrent%20Elections">bartoncounty.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704250183363.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostTime is winding down for anyone interested in Barton County that wants
to file for a local political office. The deadline to file is June 3 at 12 p.m. Outside of the Ellinwood Hospital District Board, there are no
contested races yet with city candidates in Barton County. Great Bend City
Administrator Brandon Anderson said there will be four ward positions for the
city council available in the upcoming primary election. "We have a position open in each ward," said Anderson. "Lindsey Krom-Craven in Ward 1 is up, Kevyn Soupiset in Ward 2, Davis Jimenez in Ward 3 and Tina Mingenback in Ward 4 is up."For the Great Bend council, Gary Parr has filed for Ward 1 and current
councilmember Soupiset has refiled for Ward 2. No one has filed for Ward 3 or Ward 4.On the Barton County Commission, Barb Esfeld and Shawn Hutchinson have refiled
and are currently uncontested. 
Interested individuals can pick up applications to file at the County Clerk’s
Office inside the courthouse in Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;A list of candidates that filed can be found at <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Elections%7CCurrent%20Elections">bartoncounty.org</a>.

Filing deadline June 3; not many contested Barton Co. races yet

Thursday A slight chance of rain and thunderstorms before 11am, then a slight chance of rain and thunderstorms after 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Breezy, with a south wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Thursday Night A chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55. South southeast wind around 18 mph becoming north northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 77. North northwest wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51. North wind 6 to 10 mph becoming east after midnight.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.

Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 58.

Sunday A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 82.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.

Memorial Day Sunny, with a high near 78.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 84.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 86.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday A slight chance of rain and thunderstorms before 11am, then a slight chance of rain and thunderstorms after 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Breezy, with a south wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Thursday Night A chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55. South southeast wind around 18 mph becoming north northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.Friday Sunny, with a high near 77. North northwest wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 51. North wind 6 to 10 mph becoming east after midnight.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 58.Sunday A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 82.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.Memorial Day Sunny, with a high near 78.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 84.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 86.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

From the Fort Larned National Historic Site...

If there are soldiers drilling on the Fort Grounds and ladies living in luxury on Officers’ Row it must be time once again for the biggest living history event in Western Kansas – Memorial Day Weekend at Fort Larned. Along with our usual living history groups and volunteers we have some special programs lined up for the weekend. Join us for the fun!

Saturday 10:00AM – Living in Luxury: Life on Officers’ Row 11:00AM – Steadfast Springfields: Small Arms Firing Demonstration 1:00PM – Wearing the Yellow: Life as a Cavalry Soldier 2:00PM – Manmade Thunder: Artillery Firing Demonstration 3:00PM – Martial Music: Communication in the Army 4:30PM – Retreat Ceremony (lowering the flag)

Sunday 10:00AM – Living in Luxury: Life on Officers’ Row 11:00AM – Steadfast Springfields: Small Arms Firing Demonstration 1:00PM – Wearing the Red: Life as an Artillery Soldier 2:00PM – Manmade Thunder: Artillery Firing Demonstration 3:00PM – Martial Music: Communication in the Army 4:30PM – Retreat Ceremony (lowering the flag)

Monday 10:00AM – Living in Luxury: Life on Officers’ Row 11:00AM – Steadfast Springfields: Small Arms Firing Demonstration 12:00 Noon – Saluting of the Flag (including a cannon salute) 1:00PM – Remembering the Fallen: Cemetery Program 2:00PM – Manmade Thunder: Artillery Firing Demonstration 3:00PM – Wearing the Blue: Life as an Infantry Soldier 4:30PM – Retreat Ceremony (lowering the flag)

Note: Programs might be changed or cancelled due to weather or staffing. If you want to make sure about a specific program before you come, call us at 620-285-6911.

Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156.&nbsp; You can find information on visiting at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing fols_internet@nps.gov.&nbsp; For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;www.larnedks.org&nbsp;or call (620) 285-6916.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716324122822.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Fort Larned National Historic Site...If there are soldiers drilling on the Fort Grounds and ladies living in luxury on Officers’ Row it must be time once again for the biggest living history event in Western Kansas – Memorial Day Weekend at Fort Larned. Along with our usual living history groups and volunteers we have some special programs lined up for the weekend. Join us for the fun!Saturday 10:00AM – Living in Luxury: Life on Officers’ Row 11:00AM – Steadfast Springfields: Small Arms Firing Demonstration 1:00PM – Wearing the Yellow: Life as a Cavalry Soldier 2:00PM – Manmade Thunder: Artillery Firing Demonstration 3:00PM – Martial Music: Communication in the Army 4:30PM – Retreat Ceremony (lowering the flag)Sunday 10:00AM – Living in Luxury: Life on Officers’ Row 11:00AM – Steadfast Springfields: Small Arms Firing Demonstration 1:00PM – Wearing the Red: Life as an Artillery Soldier 2:00PM – Manmade Thunder: Artillery Firing Demonstration 3:00PM – Martial Music: Communication in the Army 4:30PM – Retreat Ceremony (lowering the flag)Monday 10:00AM – Living in Luxury: Life on Officers’ Row 11:00AM – Steadfast Springfields: Small Arms Firing Demonstration 12:00 Noon – Saluting of the Flag (including a cannon salute) 1:00PM – Remembering the Fallen: Cemetery Program 2:00PM – Manmade Thunder: Artillery Firing Demonstration 3:00PM – Wearing the Blue: Life as an Infantry Soldier 4:30PM – Retreat Ceremony (lowering the flag)Note: Programs might be changed or cancelled due to weather or staffing. If you want to make sure about a specific program before you come, call us at 620-285-6911.Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156.&nbsp; You can find information on visiting at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing fols_internet@nps.gov.&nbsp; For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;www.larnedks.org&nbsp;or call (620) 285-6916.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Memorial Day Weekend events at Fort Larned

Asymbiotic or non-symbiotic N-Fixing organisms, usually species of bacteria, have the ability to ‘fix’ nitrogen (N) from the atmosphere where it is abundant as N2 gas, and produce NH3 without being associated with plant or fungi.

The process used to fix N by asymbiotic organisms is highly energy intensive. The enzyme that serves as the fixation facilitator in bacteria is nitrogenase. To convert on molecule of N2 to one molecule of NH3, this required 16 ATP (adenosine triphosphate) molecules (the chemical fuel for many biological reactions) and 8 electrons. This compares to only 5 ATP to produce one peptide bond in the production amino acids, which is classified itself as a ‘high energy requirement’ (Smercina et al., 2019).

The energy required by asymbiotic organisms to fix N may come from a variety of sources depending on their spatial presence in the surface soil biome. The sources may consist of soil organic matter, and intermediary compounds during the process of plant/animal decay, or the decay of other microorganisms. A rich source of energy also comes from root exudates of growing plants. If N-fixing organisms are active inside living plant tissue, the energy for N-fixation has to come from the plant itself.

Lately, biological-based products have been marketed to enhance crop production. One class of products essentially consists of seed inoculants whose marketers claim they will either infect the seed, which enables them to perform N-Fixation functions similar to Rhizobia in legumes, or to inhabit the immediate soil outside the root (the rhizosphere) and use plant-root exudates as food-stuffs, enabling the N-fixing organisms to fix N from the air. There is much more marketing information available to corn growers on these products than there is availability of published unbiased data from the North Central Region (NCR) of the U.S.

Trials to determine the yield benefit from one or more of these products added to different rates of N fertilizer were conducted by researchers from most of the land-grant universities in the NCR through the 2022 growing season to determine their possible value to farmers.

Overall summary – sixty-one site years of N rate trials with and without the use of biological N fixing products were conducted in corn, spring wheat, sugar beet and canola in 10 states including Kansas within the NCR. Of the 61 site-years, 59 site-years had no yield increase with use of the product over N rate alone. Two site-years in corn had yield increases due to product use over the N rates alone. Given the low rate of positive benefits to the use of these products, growers should be skeptical of products that claim to provide asymbiotic/nonsymbiotic N-fixation for the purpose of allowing a farmer to decrease fertilizer N rate. It is good for farmers to be curious; however, the wise grower needs to test products of interest on their own farm in a replicated manner and search for unbiased data on product performance before using them on whole fields. There is a recently published primer on how one might conduct on-farm research. Titled “Promoting adoption of precision nitrogen management technologies through on-farm research” by Thompson et al., 2022.

This information came from NDSU Extension publication SF2080 (April 2023).

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>Asymbiotic or non-symbiotic N-Fixing organisms, usually species of bacteria, have the ability to ‘fix’ nitrogen (N) from the atmosphere where it is abundant as N2 gas, and produce NH3 without being associated with plant or fungi.The process used to fix N by asymbiotic organisms is highly energy intensive. The enzyme that serves as the fixation facilitator in bacteria is nitrogenase. To convert on molecule of N2 to one molecule of NH3, this required 16 ATP (adenosine triphosphate) molecules (the chemical fuel for many biological reactions) and 8 electrons. This compares to only 5 ATP to produce one peptide bond in the production amino acids, which is classified itself as a ‘high energy requirement’ (Smercina et al., 2019).The energy required by asymbiotic organisms to fix N may come from a variety of sources depending on their spatial presence in the surface soil biome. The sources may consist of soil organic matter, and intermediary compounds during the process of plant/animal decay, or the decay of other microorganisms. A rich source of energy also comes from root exudates of growing plants. If N-fixing organisms are active inside living plant tissue, the energy for N-fixation has to come from the plant itself.Lately, biological-based products have been marketed to enhance crop production. One class of products essentially consists of seed inoculants whose marketers claim they will either infect the seed, which enables them to perform N-Fixation functions similar to Rhizobia in legumes, or to inhabit the immediate soil outside the root (the rhizosphere) and use plant-root exudates as food-stuffs, enabling the N-fixing organisms to fix N from the air. There is much more marketing information available to corn growers on these products than there is availability of published unbiased data from the North Central Region (NCR) of the U.S.Trials to determine the yield benefit from one or more of these products added to different rates of N fertilizer were conducted by researchers from most of the land-grant universities in the NCR through the 2022 growing season to determine their possible value to farmers.Overall summary – sixty-one site years of N rate trials with and without the use of biological N fixing products were conducted in corn, spring wheat, sugar beet and canola in 10 states including Kansas within the NCR. Of the 61 site-years, 59 site-years had no yield increase with use of the product over N rate alone. Two site-years in corn had yield increases due to product use over the N rates alone. Given the low rate of positive benefits to the use of these products, growers should be skeptical of products that claim to provide asymbiotic/nonsymbiotic N-fixation for the purpose of allowing a farmer to decrease fertilizer N rate. It is good for farmers to be curious; however, the wise grower needs to test products of interest on their own farm in a replicated manner and search for unbiased data on product performance before using them on whole fields. There is a recently published primer on how one might conduct on-farm research. Titled “Promoting adoption of precision nitrogen management technologies through on-farm research” by Thompson et al., 2022.This information came from NDSU Extension publication SF2080 (April 2023).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: Performance of N-fixing products in crop production

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson that aired May 22, 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 City Administrator Brandon Anderson that aired May 22, 2024.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson" 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=6mz5w-161b2ba-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 Administrator Brandon Anderson

Barton County Health Director Karen Winkelman informed the Barton County
Commission Tuesday that her department received a $35,000 grant to be used to
provide community-based suicide prevention services. 

The Kansas Department for
Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) grant does not require additional staff
or matching funds. Winkelman said the focus for this initiative will be
training individuals to reduce suicidal attempts and deaths.


"We're needing to start with a complete community assessment survey," said Winkelman. "They survey will show what things are missing, what gaps, as far as suicide prevention. We know that there is 9-8-8 out there, but how many people really know that it's available. That's just one of the things."

The Barton County Health Department will work with other health care workers,
school counselors and those working in mental health professions. 

Commissioners
Tricia Schlessiger and Barb Esfeld were pleased to see this initiative will include agriculture
response, with farmers being a high-risk population for suicide.


"I think the statistic is that farmers are three and a half times higher for suicide," said Schlessiger. "This year is going to be extremely stressful with drought conditions."

"People don't think about agriculture," said Esfeld. "They're out on a tractor all day by themselves and they have all the heavy burden of finances."

"This is the second year of drought conditions," added Schlessiger. "Barton County is going to suffer this year."

An extension of the grant in 2025 will be determined on available funding.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698928362549.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostBarton County Health Director Karen Winkelman informed the Barton County
Commission Tuesday that her department received a $35,000 grant to be used to
provide community-based suicide prevention services. The Kansas Department for
Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) grant does not require additional staff
or matching funds. Winkelman said the focus for this initiative will be
training individuals to reduce suicidal attempts and deaths.
"We're needing to start with a complete community assessment survey," said Winkelman. "They survey will show what things are missing, what gaps, as far as suicide prevention. We know that there is 9-8-8 out there, but how many people really know that it's available. That's just one of the things."The Barton County Health Department will work with other health care workers,
school counselors and those working in mental health professions. Commissioners
Tricia Schlessiger and Barb Esfeld were pleased to see this initiative will include agriculture
response, with farmers being a high-risk population for suicide.
"I think the statistic is that farmers are three and a half times higher for suicide," said Schlessiger. "This year is going to be extremely stressful with drought conditions.""People don't think about agriculture," said Esfeld. "They're out on a tractor all day by themselves and they have all the heavy burden of finances.""This is the second year of drought conditions," added Schlessiger. "Barton County is going to suffer this year."An extension of the grant in 2025 will be determined on available funding.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Co. receives grant for suicide prevention; farmer focus

The City of Russell and Russell County experienced severe weather on the afternoon of May 19. A tornado warning preceded the storm that swept through the area, causing golf ball-sized hail and 82 mph wind gusts. The storm caused significant damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, and the City's electric distribution system. Three structures were completely leveled. At 3:28 PM on Sunday, the tornado sirens were activated in Russell, and the National Weather Service issued a warning for a confirmed tornado on the ground west of the city. Additional reports from law enforcement and storm spotters confirmed tornadoes between Gorham and Russell moving east toward the city.

The storm's impact was extensive, resulting in widespread power outages across the city. At approximately 3:38 PM, several areas lost power, followed by the rest of the service area at 4:00 PM. In response, the city activated its emergency operations plan, prioritizing life safety, property protection, public welfare, and the restoration of city services. City crews immediately began clearing streets of downed trees and other debris, restricting access to areas with downed power lines, conducting damage assessments, and working on restoring electric service and maintaining water and wastewater services.

Russell City Manager Jon Quinday reported no injuries. Electric service was restored to most of the city by midnight. However, approximately 116 Oakdale, Sunset, Margaret, and South Front Street customers remained without power until Monday afternoon, when the damage was repaired. Individual customers with property or meter box damage requiring the work of a licensed electrician will need to complete repairs before power can be restored to their properties.

The City of Russell received invaluable support through mutual aid coordinated by the Kansas Municipal Utilities. The cities of Garden City, Ellinwood, Hoisington, and Pratt sent electric linemen, equipment, and power poles to assist in rebuilding downed power lines and repairing damaged circuits. The Kansas Municipal Energy Agency (KMEA) also contributed their Manager of Field Services –a journeyman lineman with extensive experience in electrical substations - and a lineman to support the city's efforts. The city of Colby provided power poles to expedite service restoration. This collaboration expanded the city’s resources from five linemen to seventeen.

Quinday praised the collective efforts, stating, "The response we received from these cities and KMEA is at the heart of what public power communities do and exemplifies the spirit of Kansas. I am proud of the work of all city crews and our mutual aid partners during and after Sunday’s storm. Their dedication to restoring services and returning the community to normal is at the heart of public service."

At the May 21, 2024, city council meeting, the Mayor and City council expressed their gratitude and thanked city staff for everything they do daily in service to others, especially their exemplary response to major events such as Sunday’s storm and subsequent recovery efforts.

City crews will continue cleaning up storm damage and repairing infrastructure over the next few weeks. Starting Thursday, May 23, city crews, with assistance from the Russell County Highway Department, will begin picking up trees and tree limbs of customers who have called the city clerk’s office to get on the pickup list.

The National Weather Service of Wichita confirmed two tornado damage areas from Sunday’s storms, one northwest of Russell and the other northeast of Wilson. Both tornadoes were rated EF-1. The tornado northwest of Russell had estimated peak winds of 98 mph and a path length of 1.7 miles.

A preliminary damage assessment by city staff indicates that 27 residences and 16 commercial properties received damage, ranging from multiple broken windows, damaged siding, and roofs to severe roof damage and two destroyed garages. These numbers do not include damage to public facilities – many of which were also damaged in the storm.

The National Weather Service sent a team to assess the damage within the City of Russell to determine whether a tornado, straight-line winds, or a combination caused the widespread damage throughout the community.

Thank you to everyone for your patience and those who extended a helping hand to others during and after this storm. Witnessing how our community comes together in times of need is truly inspiring.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716394721686.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Russell...The City of Russell and Russell County experienced severe weather on the afternoon of May 19. A tornado warning preceded the storm that swept through the area, causing golf ball-sized hail and 82 mph wind gusts. The storm caused significant damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, and the City's electric distribution system. Three structures were completely leveled. At 3:28 PM on Sunday, the tornado sirens were activated in Russell, and the National Weather Service issued a warning for a confirmed tornado on the ground west of the city. Additional reports from law enforcement and storm spotters confirmed tornadoes between Gorham and Russell moving east toward the city.The storm's impact was extensive, resulting in widespread power outages across the city. At approximately 3:38 PM, several areas lost power, followed by the rest of the service area at 4:00 PM. In response, the city activated its emergency operations plan, prioritizing life safety, property protection, public welfare, and the restoration of city services. City crews immediately began clearing streets of downed trees and other debris, restricting access to areas with downed power lines, conducting damage assessments, and working on restoring electric service and maintaining water and wastewater services.Russell City Manager Jon Quinday reported no injuries. Electric service was restored to most of the city by midnight. However, approximately 116 Oakdale, Sunset, Margaret, and South Front Street customers remained without power until Monday afternoon, when the damage was repaired. Individual customers with property or meter box damage requiring the work of a licensed electrician will need to complete repairs before power can be restored to their properties.The City of Russell received invaluable support through mutual aid coordinated by the Kansas Municipal Utilities. The cities of Garden City, Ellinwood, Hoisington, and Pratt sent electric linemen, equipment, and power poles to assist in rebuilding downed power lines and repairing damaged circuits. The Kansas Municipal Energy Agency (KMEA) also contributed their Manager of Field Services –a journeyman lineman with extensive experience in electrical substations - and a lineman to support the city's efforts. The city of Colby provided power poles to expedite service restoration. This collaboration expanded the city’s resources from five linemen to seventeen.Quinday praised the collective efforts, stating, "The response we received from these cities and KMEA is at the heart of what public power communities do and exemplifies the spirit of Kansas. I am proud of the work of all city crews and our mutual aid partners during and after Sunday’s storm. Their dedication to restoring services and returning the community to normal is at the heart of public service."At the May 21, 2024, city council meeting, the Mayor and City council expressed their gratitude and thanked city staff for everything they do daily in service to others, especially their exemplary response to major events such as Sunday’s storm and subsequent recovery efforts.City crews will continue cleaning up storm damage and repairing infrastructure over the next few weeks. Starting Thursday, May 23, city crews, with assistance from the Russell County Highway Department, will begin picking up trees and tree limbs of customers who have called the city clerk’s office to get on the pickup list.The National Weather Service of Wichita confirmed two tornado damage areas from Sunday’s storms, one northwest of Russell and the other northeast of Wilson. Both tornadoes were rated EF-1. The tornado northwest of Russell had estimated peak winds of 98 mph and a path length of 1.7 miles.A preliminary damage assessment by city staff indicates that 27 residences and 16 commercial properties received damage, ranging from multiple broken windows, damaged siding, and roofs to severe roof damage and two destroyed garages. These numbers do not include damage to public facilities – many of which were also damaged in the storm.The National Weather Service sent a team to assess the damage within the City of Russell to determine whether a tornado, straight-line winds, or a combination caused the widespread damage throughout the community.Thank you to everyone for your patience and those who extended a helping hand to others during and after this storm. Witnessing how our community comes together in times of need is truly inspiring.

40+ properties damaged in Russell after Sunday's storm

High school students from across the State of Kansas will participate in the 86th session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas, Sunday, June 2, through Saturday, June 8, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 32nd consecutive session at KSU.

Among the major events during the week. Unless noted, these events are open to the public.

• Opening ceremonies, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. (end time could be earlier), McCain Auditorium &nbsp; &nbsp;o Opening remarks: Tom Wierman, Kansas Boys State executive director, a 1976 KBS delegate from Ransom High School and current resident of Wichita, and Sam Houston, Kansas Boys State 2023 governor and 2024 graduate of McPherson High School. &nbsp; &nbsp;o Keynote speaker: Kendall Gammon, 15-year NFL veteran with the Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints and Pittsburgh Steelers. Considered the best long-snapper in the NFL, Gammon, a 1987 graduate of Rose Hill (Kan.) High School and 1991 graduate of Pittsburg (Kan.) State University, was a member of Pitt State’s 1991 NCAA Division II national championship team. He also played in Super Bowl 30 and in the 2005 Pro Bowl. Gammon talk will draw on personal life challenges with a message threaded with vulnerability and authentic stories to inspire attendees to use emotional strength to embrace change, build strong relationships and positively impact growth and success. &nbsp; &nbsp;o Conversation with John Celock, a New York based award-winning author, media affairs advisor and special projects editor of City &amp; State New York, a magazine focused on politics and government. Celock authored The Next Generation: Young Elected Officials and their Impact on American Politics, a 2010 book examining why people aged 35 and under run for elective office, the challenges they face and how their age impacts their views on public policy. Celock is a former state politics reporter and Patch liaison for The Huffington Post where he covered state-level politics and policy across the country, along with U.S. Senate races, as well as coordinated presidential campaign coverage and breaking news events. Celock’s work at The Huffington Post has been credited with impacting state-level legislation in Kansas and Alabama. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ John Milburn, KBS associate director and a 1985 KBS delegate from Pittsburg High School will moderate the discussion. A resident of Lawrence, Milburn is the special assistant for communications and policy for the Kansas Secretary of State.

&nbsp; &nbsp;• Swearing in of 2024 Kansas Boys State mayors, 6:50 p.m., Kansas Boys State Assembly Area (Goodnow Hall/Marlatt Hall parking lot [between buildings on Claflin Road]). &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Scott Schwab, Kansas Secretary of State and 1989 KBS delegate from Great Bend High School, will provide remarks and swear in the KBS mayors. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Party caucuses, 7:30 to 10 p.m., Federalist Party, Fiedler Hall, Room 1107; Nationalist Party, Rathbone Hall, Room 1073 (Each party will select their candidates for the six state offices and formulate their party platforms.). This event is not open to the public.

&nbsp; &nbsp;• Kansas Boys State governor candidates’ debate and introduction of other state office candidates, 1:30 to 2:45 p.m., McCain Auditorium. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Announcement of Kansas Boys State general election winners for governor and other state offices, and swearing-in ceremony, 7 p.m., KBS Assembly Area.

• Flag retirement ceremony, 7:30 p.m., World War II Memorial in front of McCain Auditorium. The event is an observance of the proper respect for the American flag and how unserviceable flags are properly disposed. The honor guard from American Legion Pearce-Keller Post No.17 in Manhattan will present the ceremony. Dr. John Lindholm, a 1949 KSU graduate who provided the dog tags as a model for the “Tags of Honor” sculpture at the Memorial, was a longtime Kansas Boys State staff member as a Legionnaire advisor before passing away in January 2020. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Evening ceremonies, 8 p.m., McCain Auditorium. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o 2024 Kansas Boys State governor’s inaugural address. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Address by Randy Frank, Hillsboro, American Legion Department of Kansas commander, and introduction of Kansas American Legion dignitaries &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Kansas Boys State band performance, chorus performance and talent show.

Thursday, June 6 &nbsp; &nbsp;• Candidates for Boys Nation, two of whom will represent Kansas Boys State as senators in Washington, D.C., July 19-26, will present speeches, 8:30 a.m., KBS Assembly Area.

Friday, June 7 &nbsp; &nbsp;• Announcement of delegates who will represent Kansas Boys State as senators at Boys Nation, 8:30 a.m., KBS Assembly Area.

Saturday, June 8 &nbsp; &nbsp;• Closing ceremonies, 9:15 to 10:45 a.m., McCain Auditorium. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Announcement of Kansas Boys State outstanding citizens, Kansas Boys State Samsung American Legion Scholarship and KBS Executive Director Scholarship winners, and announcement of various awards, including Advisor of the Year, Counselor of the Year, New Counselor of the Year, William “Bill” F. Stahl Outstanding Justice Award, Outstanding Senator Award and Outstanding State Representative Award. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Farewell address by KBS Executive Director Tom Wierman. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Closing Address by 2024 KBS Governor &nbsp; &nbsp;• Final State Assembly/Final Flag Lowering, 11 to 11:30 a.m., KBS Assembly Area

Members of the Kansas House of Representatives and Senate are expected to make visits to Kansas Boys State during the week, based on availability due to a potential special session being called by Gov. Laura Kelly.

In addition to the above events, the public is invited to view the daily morning assembly/flag raising at 8:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, and at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, as well as the evening retreat/flag lowering at 7 p.m. on Sunday and Tuesday through Friday, and at 6:45 p.m. on Monday. For those who cannot attend any events, Boys State of Kansas will provide updates during the week on its Facebook page, facebook.com/KansasBoysState. and on its website at ksbstate.org.

The Kansas Boys State program includes students who have just completed their junior year of high school (will be seniors in the fall) and sophomore year of high school (will be juniors in the fall).

The objective of the ALBSK is to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Kansas Boys State provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716236405656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>High school students from across the State of Kansas will participate in the 86th session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas, Sunday, June 2, through Saturday, June 8, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 32nd consecutive session at KSU.Among the major events during the week. Unless noted, these events are open to the public.Sunday, June 2• Opening ceremonies, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. (end time could be earlier), McCain Auditorium &nbsp; &nbsp;o Opening remarks: Tom Wierman, Kansas Boys State executive director, a 1976 KBS delegate from Ransom High School and current resident of Wichita, and Sam Houston, Kansas Boys State 2023 governor and 2024 graduate of McPherson High School. &nbsp; &nbsp;o Keynote speaker: Kendall Gammon, 15-year NFL veteran with the Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints and Pittsburgh Steelers. Considered the best long-snapper in the NFL, Gammon, a 1987 graduate of Rose Hill (Kan.) High School and 1991 graduate of Pittsburg (Kan.) State University, was a member of Pitt State’s 1991 NCAA Division II national championship team. He also played in Super Bowl 30 and in the 2005 Pro Bowl. Gammon talk will draw on personal life challenges with a message threaded with vulnerability and authentic stories to inspire attendees to use emotional strength to embrace change, build strong relationships and positively impact growth and success. &nbsp; &nbsp;o Conversation with John Celock, a New York based award-winning author, media affairs advisor and special projects editor of City &amp; State New York, a magazine focused on politics and government. Celock authored The Next Generation: Young Elected Officials and their Impact on American Politics, a 2010 book examining why people aged 35 and under run for elective office, the challenges they face and how their age impacts their views on public policy. Celock is a former state politics reporter and Patch liaison for The Huffington Post where he covered state-level politics and policy across the country, along with U.S. Senate races, as well as coordinated presidential campaign coverage and breaking news events. Celock’s work at The Huffington Post has been credited with impacting state-level legislation in Kansas and Alabama. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ John Milburn, KBS associate director and a 1985 KBS delegate from Pittsburg High School will moderate the discussion. A resident of Lawrence, Milburn is the special assistant for communications and policy for the Kansas Secretary of State.Monday, June 3&nbsp; &nbsp;• Swearing in of 2024 Kansas Boys State mayors, 6:50 p.m., Kansas Boys State Assembly Area (Goodnow Hall/Marlatt Hall parking lot [between buildings on Claflin Road]). &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Scott Schwab, Kansas Secretary of State and 1989 KBS delegate from Great Bend High School, will provide remarks and swear in the KBS mayors. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Party caucuses, 7:30 to 10 p.m., Federalist Party, Fiedler Hall, Room 1107; Nationalist Party, Rathbone Hall, Room 1073 (Each party will select their candidates for the six state offices and formulate their party platforms.). This event is not open to the public.Tuesday, June 4&nbsp; &nbsp;• Kansas Boys State governor candidates’ debate and introduction of other state office candidates, 1:30 to 2:45 p.m., McCain Auditorium. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Announcement of Kansas Boys State general election winners for governor and other state offices, and swearing-in ceremony, 7 p.m., KBS Assembly Area.Wednesday, June 5• Flag retirement ceremony, 7:30 p.m., World War II Memorial in front of McCain Auditorium. The event is an observance of the proper respect for the American flag and how unserviceable flags are properly disposed. The honor guard from American Legion Pearce-Keller Post No.17 in Manhattan will present the ceremony. Dr. John Lindholm, a 1949 KSU graduate who provided the dog tags as a model for the “Tags of Honor” sculpture at the Memorial, was a longtime Kansas Boys State staff member as a Legionnaire advisor before passing away in January 2020. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Evening ceremonies, 8 p.m., McCain Auditorium. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o 2024 Kansas Boys State governor’s inaugural address. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Address by Randy Frank, Hillsboro, American Legion Department of Kansas commander, and introduction of Kansas American Legion dignitaries &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Kansas Boys State band performance, chorus performance and talent show.Thursday, June 6 &nbsp; &nbsp;• Candidates for Boys Nation, two of whom will represent Kansas Boys State as senators in Washington, D.C., July 19-26, will present speeches, 8:30 a.m., KBS Assembly Area.Friday, June 7 &nbsp; &nbsp;• Announcement of delegates who will represent Kansas Boys State as senators at Boys Nation, 8:30 a.m., KBS Assembly Area.Saturday, June 8 &nbsp; &nbsp;• Closing ceremonies, 9:15 to 10:45 a.m., McCain Auditorium. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Announcement of Kansas Boys State outstanding citizens, Kansas Boys State Samsung American Legion Scholarship and KBS Executive Director Scholarship winners, and announcement of various awards, including Advisor of the Year, Counselor of the Year, New Counselor of the Year, William “Bill” F. Stahl Outstanding Justice Award, Outstanding Senator Award and Outstanding State Representative Award. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Farewell address by KBS Executive Director Tom Wierman. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o Closing Address by 2024 KBS Governor &nbsp; &nbsp;• Final State Assembly/Final Flag Lowering, 11 to 11:30 a.m., KBS Assembly AreaMembers of the Kansas House of Representatives and Senate are expected to make visits to Kansas Boys State during the week, based on availability due to a potential special session being called by Gov. Laura Kelly.In addition to the above events, the public is invited to view the daily morning assembly/flag raising at 8:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, and at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, as well as the evening retreat/flag lowering at 7 p.m. on Sunday and Tuesday through Friday, and at 6:45 p.m. on Monday. For those who cannot attend any events, Boys State of Kansas will provide updates during the week on its Facebook page, facebook.com/KansasBoysState. and on its website at ksbstate.org.The Kansas Boys State program includes students who have just completed their junior year of high school (will be seniors in the fall) and sophomore year of high school (will be juniors in the fall).The objective of the ALBSK is to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Kansas Boys State provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

Speakers, schedule set for American Legion Boys State of Kansas

A pair of Great Bend’s outdoor water features have been cleaned up
following last weekend’s strong storm that kicked up a lot of dirt. 

The
Wetlands Waterpark already had the pool filled up in preparation of this
Saturday’s opening day. Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns
said so much debris and dirt blew into the pool, staff elected to empty the
pool, shovel dirt out and power wash the surface.


"Crews did a good job getting that all cleaned up," said Burns. "That will take about a day and a half to fill that pool back up. Water might be a little cold on Saturday, but thankfully it's taken care of now and hopefully we don't have any more storms."

The $680,000 splash pad at Veterans Memorial Park had a ribbon cutting last Friday
for its grand opening, then Sunday’s storm forced a closure Monday. Crews had
to clean out an inch and a half of mud in the pits at splash pad. The 50' x 70' feature reopened on Tuesday.


"We had a huge turnout for the opening," said Burns. "Everybody showed up to bring that in. I'm happy to say that project is functioning now."

A forecasted high temperature of 75 degrees is needed for the pool to open. As
of now, the high for Saturday is forecasted near 80 degrees.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716319282732.png" alt="Great Bend Wetlands Waterpark pool after Sunday's wind storm." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend Wetlands Waterpark pool after Sunday's wind storm.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA pair of Great Bend’s outdoor water features have been cleaned up
following last weekend’s strong storm that kicked up a lot of dirt. The
Wetlands Waterpark already had the pool filled up in preparation of this
Saturday’s opening day. Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns
said so much debris and dirt blew into the pool, staff elected to empty the
pool, shovel dirt out and power wash the surface.
"Crews did a good job getting that all cleaned up," said Burns. "That will take about a day and a half to fill that pool back up. Water might be a little cold on Saturday, but thankfully it's taken care of now and hopefully we don't have any more storms."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716319348818.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The $680,000 splash pad at Veterans Memorial Park had a ribbon cutting last Friday
for its grand opening, then Sunday’s storm forced a closure Monday. Crews had
to clean out an inch and a half of mud in the pits at splash pad. The 50' x 70' feature reopened on Tuesday.
"We had a huge turnout for the opening," said Burns. "Everybody showed up to bring that in. I'm happy to say that project is functioning now."A forecasted high temperature of 75 degrees is needed for the pool to open. As
of now, the high for Saturday is forecasted near 80 degrees.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend cleans water features after storm; pool opens Saturday

The Russell Community Impact Award Committee is pleased to announce Patsy Denault as the April 2024 Russell Community Impact Award recipient. This award recognizes individuals, businesses, or organizations in the city of Russell whose selfless efforts have made a tangible, measurable impact on the community.

Patsy Denault has been selected as the award recipient for her unwavering dedication to&nbsp;championing small businesses and encouraging the community to shop locally. Patsy is described as a true community champion, an unsung hero, and a beacon of inspiration to all who know her. She tirelessly advocates for Russell's prosperity and showcases the incredible community spirit that defines Russell.

Patsy's commitment to supporting small businesses is evident in her journey of successfully growing her business from a few bottles of barbeque sauce to producing large quantities for distribution across Kansas. She highlights small businesses in Russell on social media, showcasing their unique characteristics and offerings. Patsy's support for the community is unwavering, as she works tirelessly without seeking acknowledgment to make Russell shine.

Additionally, Patsy is known for her dedication to lifting the citizens of Russell and unconditionally supporting the town. She promotes, supports, and inspires entrepreneurs in Russell through various channels, including social media, text messages, and personal visits. Patsy has overcome many challenges in her life and is determined to help others achieve their dreams, embodying the true spirit of selflessness and community impact.

As the Russell Community Impact Award recipient, Patsy has chosen the Dorrance Lutheran Church as the non-profit that will receive a $250 donation on her behalf.&nbsp;

For more information about the Russell Community Impact Awards, contact Jon Quinday at 785.483.6311.

From the City of Russell...The Russell Community Impact Award Committee is pleased to announce Patsy Denault as the April 2024 Russell Community Impact Award recipient. This award recognizes individuals, businesses, or organizations in the city of Russell whose selfless efforts have made a tangible, measurable impact on the community.Patsy Denault has been selected as the award recipient for her unwavering dedication to&nbsp;championing small businesses and encouraging the community to shop locally. Patsy is described as a true community champion, an unsung hero, and a beacon of inspiration to all who know her. She tirelessly advocates for Russell's prosperity and showcases the incredible community spirit that defines Russell.Patsy's commitment to supporting small businesses is evident in her journey of successfully growing her business from a few bottles of barbeque sauce to producing large quantities for distribution across Kansas. She highlights small businesses in Russell on social media, showcasing their unique characteristics and offerings. Patsy's support for the community is unwavering, as she works tirelessly without seeking acknowledgment to make Russell shine.Additionally, Patsy is known for her dedication to lifting the citizens of Russell and unconditionally supporting the town. She promotes, supports, and inspires entrepreneurs in Russell through various channels, including social media, text messages, and personal visits. Patsy has overcome many challenges in her life and is determined to help others achieve their dreams, embodying the true spirit of selflessness and community impact.As the Russell Community Impact Award recipient, Patsy has chosen the Dorrance Lutheran Church as the non-profit that will receive a $250 donation on her behalf.&nbsp;For more information about the Russell Community Impact Awards, contact Jon Quinday at 785.483.6311.

Patsy Denault receives Russell Community Impact Award

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/21)

At 7:59 a.m. falls were reported at 237 NE 60 Avenue.

At 10:29 p.m. a juvenile complaint was reported in the 1400
block of 21st Street.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/21)

At 7:41 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 805
Hubbard.

At 10:47 a.m. an accident was reported at 3920 10th
Street.

At 12:23 p.m. subjects not leaving the property was reported
at 911 Grant Street. Subjects left without incident.

At 1:11 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2417 Gano Street.

At 5:15 p.m. being battered by a client was reported at 1560
K-96 Highway.

At 11:28 p.m. Jayme Potter reported a driving complaint at
3413 10th Street.

At 11:43 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2nd
&amp; Kiowa Road.

At 11:59 p.m. Kathryn Warner reported at prowler at 2615
Lakin.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (5/21)FallsAt 7:59 a.m. falls were reported at 237 NE 60 Avenue.Juvenile ComplaintAt 10:29 p.m. a juvenile complaint was reported in the 1400
block of 21st Street.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (5/21)Animal Complaint At 7:41 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 805
Hubbard.Non-Injury AccidentAt 10:47 a.m. an accident was reported at 3920 10th
Street.Remove SubjectAt 12:23 p.m. subjects not leaving the property was reported
at 911 Grant Street. Subjects left without incident.Traumatic InjuriesAt 1:11 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2417 Gano Street.BatteryAt 5:15 p.m. being battered by a client was reported at 1560
K-96 Highway.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:28 p.m. Jayme Potter reported a driving complaint at
3413 10th Street.At 11:43 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2nd
&amp; Kiowa Road.ProwlerAt 11:59 p.m. Kathryn Warner reported at prowler at 2615
Lakin.

Cop Shop (5/21)

BOOKED: Jonathan Jones on Barton County District Court
warrant to serve sentence, no bond.

BOOKED: Shannon Walker on Barton County District Court
warrant for probation violation, no bond.

BOOKED: Danny Queen on Great Bend Municipal Court case for
criminal damage, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Dalton Contrerez on BCDC case for aggravated domestic
battery, interference with LEO and battery of an LEO after posting a $20,000
surety through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Danny Queen on GBMC case for criminal damage,
posted $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>5/21BOOKED: Jonathan Jones on Barton County District Court
warrant to serve sentence, no bond.BOOKED: Shannon Walker on Barton County District Court
warrant for probation violation, no bond.BOOKED: Danny Queen on Great Bend Municipal Court case for
criminal damage, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Dalton Contrerez on BCDC case for aggravated domestic
battery, interference with LEO and battery of an LEO after posting a $20,000
surety through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Danny Queen on GBMC case for criminal damage,
posted $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (5/21)

This spring, students from Barton’s chapter of HOSA (Future Health Professionals) traveled to Manhattan, Kan. for the Spring 2024 State Leadership Conference and Competition (SLC) and came home with some hardware.

Six Barton students competed, and all of them qualified for the International Leadership Conference and Competition (ILC) in Houston this June.

Kaden Baird (Pre-Nursing/General studies)First place team - CPR/First AidFirst place Medical AssistingFirst place Anatomy &amp; PhysiologySecond place Medical Math

Aaron Deason&nbsp;(Athletic Training/Liberal studies)&nbsp;First&nbsp;place team - CPR/First AidThird&nbsp;place Medical Math

Alidsha Vazquez Centeno&nbsp;(Registered Nursing)&nbsp;First&nbsp;place team - Creative Problem SolvingFirst&nbsp;place Clinical Nursing

Brianna Auker&nbsp;(Medical Lab Technology)&nbsp;First&nbsp;place team - Creative Problem SolvingFirst&nbsp;place Clinical Laboratory ScienceFirst&nbsp;place Medical Terminology

Hannah Dapogny (Pre-nursing)First&nbsp;place team - Creative Problem SolvingFirst&nbsp;place Nurse AssistingFirst&nbsp;place Medical Math

Valeria Gallardo- Pulido&nbsp;(Medical Lab Technology)&nbsp;First&nbsp;place PhlebotomyFirst&nbsp;place team - Creative Problem SolvingFirst&nbsp;place Nutrition

The HOSA Conference brings together students at the middle school, high school, and post-secondary level from five different countries (approximately 12,000 students) to compete against each other in 92 separate events including: Health Professions Events, Emergency Preparedness Events, Health Science Events, Leadership Events, Teamwork events, and Recognition events.&nbsp; The Competitive Events Program is designed to motivate HOSA members and provide a system for recognizing the competencies developed by members through health science and biomedical science class instruction, related job training, and HOSA-related activities.

Competitive events are designed to motivate HOSA members to improve their knowledge and skills.&nbsp;&nbsp; HOSA provides a national competitive events program as a means of recognizing those students who are willing to pursue excellence by preparing for competition and having the determination to attend a conference and participate in a competitive event. To qualify for ILC, students at the post-secondary level in Kansas are required to score in the top 30 percent&nbsp;across the nation in the round one knowledge test and place in the top three of their round two skills evaluation.

The group is hosting a fundraiser at “Freddy’s Night” at the Great Bend Freddy’s from 4-8 p.m. May 22&nbsp;to help support their trip to the national conference. Those wishing to contribute just need to mention the fundraiser or use promo code “giveback” if ordering online.

For more information or to make additional donations, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:guntherka@bartonccc.edu">guntherka@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or call (620) 786-1133.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716323402474.jpeg" alt="Barton HOSA members Hannah Dapogny, Aaron Deason, Brianna Auker, Valeria Gallardo- Pulido, and Kaden Baird pose for a photo at Spring 2024 State Leadership Conference and Competition in Manhattan, Kan. in at the end of March. Not pictured Alidsha Vazquez Centeno." />
 <figcaption>Barton HOSA members Hannah Dapogny, Aaron Deason, Brianna Auker, Valeria Gallardo- Pulido, and Kaden Baird pose for a photo at Spring 2024 State Leadership Conference and Competition in Manhattan, Kan. in at the end of March. Not pictured Alidsha Vazquez Centeno.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaThis spring, students from Barton’s chapter of HOSA (Future Health Professionals) traveled to Manhattan, Kan. for the Spring 2024 State Leadership Conference and Competition (SLC) and came home with some hardware.Six Barton students competed, and all of them qualified for the International Leadership Conference and Competition (ILC) in Houston this June.The results were as follows:Kaden Baird (Pre-Nursing/General studies)First place team - CPR/First AidFirst place Medical AssistingFirst place Anatomy &amp; PhysiologySecond place Medical MathAaron Deason&nbsp;(Athletic Training/Liberal studies)&nbsp;First&nbsp;place team - CPR/First AidThird&nbsp;place Medical MathAlidsha Vazquez Centeno&nbsp;(Registered Nursing)&nbsp;First&nbsp;place team - Creative Problem SolvingFirst&nbsp;place Clinical NursingBrianna Auker&nbsp;(Medical Lab Technology)&nbsp;First&nbsp;place team - Creative Problem SolvingFirst&nbsp;place Clinical Laboratory ScienceFirst&nbsp;place Medical TerminologyHannah Dapogny (Pre-nursing)First&nbsp;place team - Creative Problem SolvingFirst&nbsp;place Nurse AssistingFirst&nbsp;place Medical MathValeria Gallardo- Pulido&nbsp;(Medical Lab Technology)&nbsp;First&nbsp;place PhlebotomyFirst&nbsp;place team - Creative Problem SolvingFirst&nbsp;place NutritionThe HOSA Conference brings together students at the middle school, high school, and post-secondary level from five different countries (approximately 12,000 students) to compete against each other in 92 separate events including: Health Professions Events, Emergency Preparedness Events, Health Science Events, Leadership Events, Teamwork events, and Recognition events.&nbsp; The Competitive Events Program is designed to motivate HOSA members and provide a system for recognizing the competencies developed by members through health science and biomedical science class instruction, related job training, and HOSA-related activities.Competitive events are designed to motivate HOSA members to improve their knowledge and skills.&nbsp;&nbsp; HOSA provides a national competitive events program as a means of recognizing those students who are willing to pursue excellence by preparing for competition and having the determination to attend a conference and participate in a competitive event. To qualify for ILC, students at the post-secondary level in Kansas are required to score in the top 30 percent&nbsp;across the nation in the round one knowledge test and place in the top three of their round two skills evaluation.The group is hosting a fundraiser at “Freddy’s Night” at the Great Bend Freddy’s from 4-8 p.m. May 22&nbsp;to help support their trip to the national conference. Those wishing to contribute just need to mention the fundraiser or use promo code “giveback” if ordering online.For more information or to make additional donations, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:guntherka@bartonccc.edu">guntherka@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or call (620) 786-1133.

Barton healthcare students place in HOSA competition

Progress continues at the southwest corner of the Forest Avenue and
Williams Street intersection in Great Bend for an outdoor courtyard. Referred
to as the Landing Restaurant and Outdoor Gathering Place, the property
mentioned plans providing space for a restaurant and loft space to go along
with the outdoor space.


The Great Bend City Council Monday night approved an ordinance vacating a
6' x 100’ strip of land to the Williams Street property to expand the
plans for the courtyard. Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said the area
vacated runs along Williams Street across from the B-29 mural.


"Right now the property line is not butting up to the sidewalk," said Burns. "The new property line will. We did send notice to all the utility companies and nobody had any denial requests for it."

The plan for the café or restaurant is to serve food and beverages to patrons
who can then enjoy their meal in the outdoor sitting area. The area will be
fenced on three sides.


In 2022, the Landing received a $43,960 grant from the Kansas Department of
Commerce that assists in renovating downtown buildings.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716312920004.jpeg" alt="Rendering from 2022 of the Landing project at the intersection of Forest and Williams in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Rendering from 2022 of the Landing project at the intersection of Forest and Williams in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostProgress continues at the southwest corner of the Forest Avenue and
Williams Street intersection in Great Bend for an outdoor courtyard. Referred
to as the Landing Restaurant and Outdoor Gathering Place, the property
mentioned plans providing space for a restaurant and loft space to go along
with the outdoor space.
The Great Bend City Council Monday night approved an ordinance vacating a
6' x 100’ strip of land to the Williams Street property to expand the
plans for the courtyard. Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said the area
vacated runs along Williams Street across from the B-29 mural.
"Right now the property line is not butting up to the sidewalk," said Burns. "The new property line will. We did send notice to all the utility companies and nobody had any denial requests for it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716313298306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The plan for the café or restaurant is to serve food and beverages to patrons
who can then enjoy their meal in the outdoor sitting area. The area will be
fenced on three sides.
In 2022, the Landing received a $43,960 grant from the Kansas Department of
Commerce that assists in renovating downtown buildings.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Progress on downtown café & outdoor courtyard in Great Bend

From Ellinwood Hospital &amp; Clinic...

Ellinwood Hospital &amp; Clinic hosted a tour of the new Hospital &amp; Clinic to local Veterans of War last week. The tour included 7 Veterans, 1 Legion Rider and 1 PTSD Therapist from Dropping 22, a new nonprofit therapy company in Great Bend, KS that focuses their counseling services on Veterans of War. In addition, Tyler York from Senator Jerry Moran’s office also made the trip to Ellinwood to join the special guests. Mr. Moran’s entire staff have a huge heart for America’s Veterans of War.

These members of our community make up a significant number of residents in central Kansas. With Memorial Day around the corner, it was great to host a tour like this that reminds us of where our freedom comes from. “The new Hospital &amp; Clinic is in a great location to serve 9,600 Vets who reside in the 8 counties of central Kansas,” says Jon Prescott, who assisted in coordinating the tour. “We are very excited to be able to give back to them in a way that helps their health after everything they have sacrificed.”

One goal for Ellinwood Hospital &amp; Clinic is to be able to serve all types of people from various ages, backgrounds and medical needs. Allowing our Vets to see the new facility is one step closer to different groups feeling included and welcome.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716324657866.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFrom Ellinwood Hospital &amp; Clinic...Ellinwood Hospital &amp; Clinic hosted a tour of the new Hospital &amp; Clinic to local Veterans of War last week. The tour included 7 Veterans, 1 Legion Rider and 1 PTSD Therapist from Dropping 22, a new nonprofit therapy company in Great Bend, KS that focuses their counseling services on Veterans of War. In addition, Tyler York from Senator Jerry Moran’s office also made the trip to Ellinwood to join the special guests. Mr. Moran’s entire staff have a huge heart for America’s Veterans of War.These members of our community make up a significant number of residents in central Kansas. With Memorial Day around the corner, it was great to host a tour like this that reminds us of where our freedom comes from. “The new Hospital &amp; Clinic is in a great location to serve 9,600 Vets who reside in the 8 counties of central Kansas,” says Jon Prescott, who assisted in coordinating the tour. “We are very excited to be able to give back to them in a way that helps their health after everything they have sacrificed.”One goal for Ellinwood Hospital &amp; Clinic is to be able to serve all types of people from various ages, backgrounds and medical needs. Allowing our Vets to see the new facility is one step closer to different groups feeling included and welcome.

Local veterans tour new Ellinwood hospital

Wednesday Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 78. Northwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53. South southeast wind 8 to 10 mph.

Thursday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86. South southeast wind 9 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 57. South southeast wind 15 to 17 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 76.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 49.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 81.

Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 56.

Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.

Memorial Day Sunny, with a high near 79.

Wednesday Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 78. Northwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming east in the afternoon.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53. South southeast wind 8 to 10 mph.Thursday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86. South southeast wind 9 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 57. South southeast wind 15 to 17 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 76.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 49.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 81.Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 56.Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.Memorial Day Sunny, with a high near 79.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;