Download the official Great Bend Post mobile app today!

Great Bend Post is your destination for local news, sports, obituaries, opinion, announcements, and more in Great Bend, KS.

Great Bend Post is your trusted news source for local &amp; regional news in the Great Bend area. Stay up to date with everything happening around you, delivered right to your phone.

- Browse local, regional, sports, obituaries, announcements, &amp; more - Customize your experience in light mode or dark mode - Search thousands of posts - Listen to any of our radio stations online for free - Easily share important news to friends &amp; family

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619211900118.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Download the official Great Bend Post mobile app today!Great Bend Post is your destination for local news, sports, obituaries, opinion, announcements, and more in Great Bend, KS.Great Bend Post is your trusted news source for local &amp; regional news in the Great Bend area. Stay up to date with everything happening around you, delivered right to your phone.- Browse local, regional, sports, obituaries, announcements, &amp; more - Customize your experience in light mode or dark mode - Search thousands of posts - Listen to any of our radio stations online for free - Easily share important news to friends &amp; family<figure>
 <img src="https://greatbendpost.com/misc/apple-download.png" alt="Download on the App Store <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/great-bend-post-by-eagle/id1536149932">HERE</a>." />
 <figcaption>Download on the App Store <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/great-bend-post-by-eagle/id1536149932">HERE</a>.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Download the Great Bend Post mobile app

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Great Bend compost site is becoming a more popular location as
mowing season has started again. Public Works Director Jason Cauley reminds
citizens to not abuse the rules of the compost site so it can continue to serve
the community. 

The compost is permitted by the Kansas Department of Health and
Environment (KDHE) and the city can get written up for items dumped at the site that
are not permitted. The city wants to avoid illegal dumping and make sure there
is enough room for everyone to access the compost.


"When you get to the site, do the best you can to get all the way back to the grass pile," said Cauley. "Or get to a pile next to it if you can't get all the way back there. Make sure there are not a whole lot of spaces between those. We do have guys that go out and push that up, especially during the work week."

Public Works staff volunteer for the overtime hours on the weekend to compact
the material at the compost site. 

Great Bend’s permit through KDHE only allows
for grass, leaves and tree limbs. 
Making unlawful deposits at the compost is a Class B violation and can warrant a
fine.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594087160015.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend compost site is becoming a more popular location as
mowing season has started again. Public Works Director Jason Cauley reminds
citizens to not abuse the rules of the compost site so it can continue to serve
the community. The compost is permitted by the Kansas Department of Health and
Environment (KDHE) and the city can get written up for items dumped at the site that
are not permitted. The city wants to avoid illegal dumping and make sure there
is enough room for everyone to access the compost.
"When you get to the site, do the best you can to get all the way back to the grass pile," said Cauley. "Or get to a pile next to it if you can't get all the way back there. Make sure there are not a whole lot of spaces between those. We do have guys that go out and push that up, especially during the work week."Public Works staff volunteer for the overtime hours on the weekend to compact
the material at the compost site. Great Bend’s permit through KDHE only allows
for grass, leaves and tree limbs. 
Making unlawful deposits at the compost is a Class B violation and can warrant a
fine.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Following the rules at the Great Bend compost site

From the Central Kansas Catbackers...

In 2016, the Central Kansas Catbackers created a scholarship program for local students that plan to attend Kansas State University as freshmen in the fall. The committee awards 5 - $1,000 scholarships each year. We received several outstanding applications and faced a difficult challenge selecting five recipients.

The following five recipients of the 2024-2025 Central Kansas Catbacker Scholarship are:

● Ian Dunn graduate of St. John High School. Ian is the son of Brian and Carolyn Dunn. Ian will pursue a degree in Agriculture Economics.

● Luke Fischer graduate of Larned High School. Luke is the son of Bryan and Shannon Fischer. Luke will pursue a degree in Agriculture Business, Animal Science, or Agronomy.

● Ava Gregg graduate of Great Bend High School. Ava is the daughter of Ryan and Jennifer Gregg. Ava will pursue a degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education.

● Samantha Mayers graduate of Great Bend High School. Samantha is the daughter of Jason and Jayme Mayers. Samantha will pursue a degree in Life Science and minor in Leadership Studies with plans to enter the medical field.

● Caylee Rowan graduate of Ellinwood High School. Caylee is the daughter of Brian and Jamie Rowan. Caylee will pursue a degree in Psychology.

Congratulations to the 2024-2025 Central Kansas Catbacker scholarship recipients.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713448601072.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Central Kansas Catbackers...In 2016, the Central Kansas Catbackers created a scholarship program for local students that plan to attend Kansas State University as freshmen in the fall. The committee awards 5 - $1,000 scholarships each year. We received several outstanding applications and faced a difficult challenge selecting five recipients.The following five recipients of the 2024-2025 Central Kansas Catbacker Scholarship are:● Ian Dunn graduate of St. John High School. Ian is the son of Brian and Carolyn Dunn. Ian will pursue a degree in Agriculture Economics.● Luke Fischer graduate of Larned High School. Luke is the son of Bryan and Shannon Fischer. Luke will pursue a degree in Agriculture Business, Animal Science, or Agronomy.● Ava Gregg graduate of Great Bend High School. Ava is the daughter of Ryan and Jennifer Gregg. Ava will pursue a degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education.● Samantha Mayers graduate of Great Bend High School. Samantha is the daughter of Jason and Jayme Mayers. Samantha will pursue a degree in Life Science and minor in Leadership Studies with plans to enter the medical field.● Caylee Rowan graduate of Ellinwood High School. Caylee is the daughter of Brian and Jamie Rowan. Caylee will pursue a degree in Psychology.Congratulations to the 2024-2025 Central Kansas Catbacker scholarship recipients.

Central KS Catbackers award scholarships to local students

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Health Director Karen Winkelman that aired April 18, 2024.

The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Health Director Karen Winkelman that aired April 18, 2024.<div><iframe title="County Edition: Barton Co. Health Director Karen Winkelman" 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=5bf6n-15ea375-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙County Edition: Barton Co. Health Director Winkelman

On Wednesday, April 17, three Great Bend Middle School teachers received a heartwarming surprise; they were announced as grant winners provided by Credit Union of America. 

Mrs. Stein, Mrs. Williams, and Mrs. Tittel will use the grant funds to bring new opportunities to their students through a drone program (Stein), a t-shirt press (Williams), and a book-rebinding machine (Tittel).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713384753524.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday, April 17, three Great Bend Middle School teachers received a heartwarming surprise; they were announced as grant winners provided by Credit Union of America. Mrs. Stein, Mrs. Williams, and Mrs. Tittel will use the grant funds to bring new opportunities to their students through a drone program (Stein), a t-shirt press (Williams), and a book-rebinding machine (Tittel).&nbsp;

Great Bend Middle School teachers receive grants

It is your chance to win! View the Contests page on Great Bend Post to see what contests/giveaways are currently being promoted. View the page by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/category/contests">HERE</a>!&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596659243713.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It is your chance to win! View the Contests page on Great Bend Post to see what contests/giveaways are currently being promoted. View the page by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/category/contests">HERE</a>!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eagle Radio CONTESTS

Twenty-one Kansas employers are competing in this year’s Give Back Kansas Challenge, which runs from April 1 through May 31, 2024. The purpose of the challenge is to engage Kansans in employer-supported volunteering.

The Give Back Kansas&nbsp;Challenge&nbsp;is an opportunity for employees who volunteer to receive recognition by tracking and reporting their hours and to win a $1,000 grant from Volunteer Kansas that will be donated to the nonprofit of their choice.

“We are thrilled to have a record number of businesses compete in the challenge. Participation has grown each year as employers realize the value of serving their communities alongside their employees and encourage them to volunteer,” said Nola Brown, executive director of Volunteer Kansas, which is partnering with the Kansas Volunteer Commission to introduce the challenge to Kansans.

Participating employers include:&nbsp; Cowley County Historical Society Museum – Winfield, Flint Hills Volunteer Center – Manhattan, The Treehouse – Wichita, Wichita Festivals, Inc. – Wichita, Volunteers in Action – Great Bend, All For Moms Foundation – Spring Hill, Smoky Hill Museum – Salina, Bethel Life Center – Wichita, The Medical Loan Closet – Wichita, United Way of Kaw Valley – Topeka, Schenker Family Farms, Inc. – McCune, TGC Group – Wichita, Wichita Habitat for Humanity – Wichita, Breakthrough/Episcopal Social Services – Wichita, County of Cloud – Concordia, Tanganyika Wildlife Park – Goddard, Kansas State Department of Education – Topeka, Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas – Pittsburg, Pfizer – McPherson, Arvest Bank – Kansas City, and The City of Derby – Derby.

There is no cost to participate. Businesses are divided into three size categories based on the number of employees they have. They record their volunteer hours through an online portal. Winners will be selected from each size category by determining the average number of volunteer hours per business completed during the challenge period.

“We love the opportunity to help employers encourage their employees to volunteer. We try to make the&nbsp;Challenge&nbsp;fun and exciting. It’s such a great way to introduce people to organizations who need their help to continue doing good in our state, and we are delighted to be a part of it each year,” said Dr. Jessica Dorsey, executive director of the Kansas Volunteer Commission.

Volunteer opportunities are listed at&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.volunteerkansas.org&amp;c=E,1,m51OQTO3ubwKajqJ3kYILaQ4UnhaSbnqGeUKkJLlrqr8amKDfR1qrNvjtnsyUW2rQL7YMwMKQmyi5C1gPjaCEoVT5bqHtDH8GHO9SRPq0bYknNKmI5vNF3J3IIE,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">www.volunteerkansas.org</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713300460651.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Twenty-one Kansas employers are competing in this year’s Give Back Kansas Challenge, which runs from April 1 through May 31, 2024. The purpose of the challenge is to engage Kansans in employer-supported volunteering.The Give Back Kansas&nbsp;Challenge&nbsp;is an opportunity for employees who volunteer to receive recognition by tracking and reporting their hours and to win a $1,000 grant from Volunteer Kansas that will be donated to the nonprofit of their choice.“We are thrilled to have a record number of businesses compete in the challenge. Participation has grown each year as employers realize the value of serving their communities alongside their employees and encourage them to volunteer,” said Nola Brown, executive director of Volunteer Kansas, which is partnering with the Kansas Volunteer Commission to introduce the challenge to Kansans.Participating employers include:&nbsp; Cowley County Historical Society Museum – Winfield, Flint Hills Volunteer Center – Manhattan, The Treehouse – Wichita, Wichita Festivals, Inc. – Wichita, Volunteers in Action – Great Bend, All For Moms Foundation – Spring Hill, Smoky Hill Museum – Salina, Bethel Life Center – Wichita, The Medical Loan Closet – Wichita, United Way of Kaw Valley – Topeka, Schenker Family Farms, Inc. – McCune, TGC Group – Wichita, Wichita Habitat for Humanity – Wichita, Breakthrough/Episcopal Social Services – Wichita, County of Cloud – Concordia, Tanganyika Wildlife Park – Goddard, Kansas State Department of Education – Topeka, Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas – Pittsburg, Pfizer – McPherson, Arvest Bank – Kansas City, and The City of Derby – Derby.There is no cost to participate. Businesses are divided into three size categories based on the number of employees they have. They record their volunteer hours through an online portal. Winners will be selected from each size category by determining the average number of volunteer hours per business completed during the challenge period.“We love the opportunity to help employers encourage their employees to volunteer. We try to make the&nbsp;Challenge&nbsp;fun and exciting. It’s such a great way to introduce people to organizations who need their help to continue doing good in our state, and we are delighted to be a part of it each year,” said Dr. Jessica Dorsey, executive director of the Kansas Volunteer Commission.Volunteer opportunities are listed at&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.volunteerkansas.org&amp;c=E,1,m51OQTO3ubwKajqJ3kYILaQ4UnhaSbnqGeUKkJLlrqr8amKDfR1qrNvjtnsyUW2rQL7YMwMKQmyi5C1gPjaCEoVT5bqHtDH8GHO9SRPq0bYknNKmI5vNF3J3IIE,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">www.volunteerkansas.org</a>

Great Bend group competing in Give Back Kansas Challenge

The Barton Music Department will host its annual Endowment Concert to raise funds for music student scholarships at 7:30 p.m. May 9 in the Fine Arts Auditorium.

Tickets are $10 for adults. Children and students get in for free. All ticket sales and donations at the door go to the Vocal and Instrumental Music Endowment with the Barton Community College Foundation.

The concert will feature vocal and instrumental music groups including the Barton&nbsp;jazz ensemble, orchestra, choir, and Hilltop Singers.

Director of Choral Activities Eric Foley said in addition to being a very important fundraising event it is also a much-needed celebration of all the musicians’ efforts.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to support these talented young musicians,” he said. “Our students have worked diligently, and this&nbsp;will be a fun evening you won't want to miss.”

The Vocal and Instrumental Music Endowment was created in 1998. Scholarships from the fund are provided to students majoring in music, students in performing groups, and to high school students who enroll in voice, piano, or instrumental lessons.

For more information, contact Foley at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9395.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713205154290.jpeg" alt="A musician performs at a concert earlier in the year in the Fine Arts Auditorium." />
 <figcaption>A musician performs at a concert earlier in the year in the Fine Arts Auditorium.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Joe VinduskaThe Barton Music Department will host its annual Endowment Concert to raise funds for music student scholarships at 7:30 p.m. May 9 in the Fine Arts Auditorium.Tickets are $10 for adults. Children and students get in for free. All ticket sales and donations at the door go to the Vocal and Instrumental Music Endowment with the Barton Community College Foundation.The concert will feature vocal and instrumental music groups including the Barton&nbsp;jazz ensemble, orchestra, choir, and Hilltop Singers.Director of Choral Activities Eric Foley said in addition to being a very important fundraising event it is also a much-needed celebration of all the musicians’ efforts.“This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to support these talented young musicians,” he said. “Our students have worked diligently, and this&nbsp;will be a fun evening you won't want to miss.”The Vocal and Instrumental Music Endowment was created in 1998. Scholarships from the fund are provided to students majoring in music, students in performing groups, and to high school students who enroll in voice, piano, or instrumental lessons.For more information, contact Foley at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9395.

Barton to host annual Endowment Concert

In conjunction with Teacher Appreciation Week scheduled for&nbsp;May 6-10, USD 428 will be recognizing our #428heroes who work every day to support the growth and development of students. After the success the past few years, we would like to again involve local businesses and the community in extending our appreciation through local "perks."

Would you be willing to offer a discount or a special promo to our USD 428 Employees? Ideas: Percentage off a purchase or item, a free drink, $1 or $2 off a latte, a free cookie with purchase, or another discount or special?&nbsp;

We will distribute this information via email to our staff at USD 428 (here's a sample of what we did last year -&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=786319&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823313&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fsites.google.com%2Fusd428.net%2F428hero-2023%2Fhome&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=754ce1357edaff37d2fea40f604fb531127f4dfbc4947bcb920a46dcec1eeac3" target="_blank">2023 #428hero Week</a>). While it will be sent during "teacher appreciation week" we celebrate the work of all staff and include everyone in the fun. I don't have a way to estimate the number of participants or expected redemption rates. We've heard over and over how much the gesture is appreciated and we hope it drives traffic to your business as well.&nbsp;

If you're willing to participate, please respond using the Google Form -&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=786319&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823313&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.google.com%2Fforms%2Fd%2Fe%2F1FAIpQLSe36G_rU_rmyeG3TeG_Aqt7qrjRHyP_9GHqoFaxhbrG-RbbSQ%2Fviewform&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=63ecc5e77be7307ee6869e4a4e06e363e56544748b1bc7723f3346be8a27dd33" target="_blank">Click Here</a>, by Friday, April 26. Questions? Reach out to Andrea Bauer, Pulic Information Director, USD 428, andrea.bauer@usd428.net 620-793-1500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713369595732.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From USD 428...In conjunction with Teacher Appreciation Week scheduled for&nbsp;May 6-10, USD 428 will be recognizing our #428heroes who work every day to support the growth and development of students. After the success the past few years, we would like to again involve local businesses and the community in extending our appreciation through local "perks."Would you be willing to offer a discount or a special promo to our USD 428 Employees? Ideas: Percentage off a purchase or item, a free drink, $1 or $2 off a latte, a free cookie with purchase, or another discount or special?&nbsp;We will distribute this information via email to our staff at USD 428 (here's a sample of what we did last year -&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=786319&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823313&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fsites.google.com%2Fusd428.net%2F428hero-2023%2Fhome&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=754ce1357edaff37d2fea40f604fb531127f4dfbc4947bcb920a46dcec1eeac3" target="_blank">2023 #428hero Week</a>). While it will be sent during "teacher appreciation week" we celebrate the work of all staff and include everyone in the fun. I don't have a way to estimate the number of participants or expected redemption rates. We've heard over and over how much the gesture is appreciated and we hope it drives traffic to your business as well.&nbsp;If you're willing to participate, please respond using the Google Form -&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=786319&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1823313&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fdocs.google.com%2Fforms%2Fd%2Fe%2F1FAIpQLSe36G_rU_rmyeG3TeG_Aqt7qrjRHyP_9GHqoFaxhbrG-RbbSQ%2Fviewform&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=63ecc5e77be7307ee6869e4a4e06e363e56544748b1bc7723f3346be8a27dd33" target="_blank">Click Here</a>, by Friday, April 26. Questions? Reach out to Andrea Bauer, Pulic Information Director, USD 428, andrea.bauer@usd428.net 620-793-1500.

Get involved with honoring Great Bend teachers

It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/9d855a27-70dc-43bf-b62d-3bc5b5cfe8be">First responder mural coming to Great Bend at 10th &amp; Main</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e0d4b880-8588-422e-8629-b45a43901c1a">Bid process this summer for left-turn signals at 10th &amp; McKinley</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d39504b5-a9da-4eba-8c01-01dad83b4500">Great Bend teen releases first studio recording</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713228085054.jpeg" alt="A new mural will be painted at 10th Street and Main Street in Great Bend this summer." />
 <figcaption>A new mural will be painted at 10th Street and Main Street in Great Bend this summer.</figcaption>
 </figure>It’s a two-minute recap of the headlines that broke this past week in the Golden Belt. For the full stories, click the links below.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/lqasip5p/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/9d855a27-70dc-43bf-b62d-3bc5b5cfe8be">First responder mural coming to Great Bend at 10th &amp; Main</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e0d4b880-8588-422e-8629-b45a43901c1a">Bid process this summer for left-turn signals at 10th &amp; McKinley</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d39504b5-a9da-4eba-8c01-01dad83b4500">Great Bend teen releases first studio recording</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

Old Iron is back after a 15-year break! As part of the 150th Anniversary of Rush County, Kansas, the people of Otis have resurrected Old Iron Days for a one-time encore celebration. The celebration will be held on April 26-28, 2024 in downtown Otis.

Events begin on Friday the 26th at 6 pm with a Pancake Feed sponsored by the Otis Lions Club under the People’s Bank tent in the Otis City Park. Live music will be provided by “Off Duty.” A free will offering will be taken.

On Saturday morning, events kick off with a car and antique tractor show from 10 am - 2 pm. Military vehicles will also be on display. There will be live blacksmithing demonstrations, and the Mountain Man Rendezvous will feature historical reenactments from the early 1800s. Food and craft vendors, games for the kids, and more will be set up downtown. The Rush County Historical Society will exhibit historical displays in the Senior Center from 10 am - 2 pm and after the parade. Balloons from the Messer Helium Plant will be available for the kids from 10 am – 12:00 pm.

At 2:30 pm, the parade kicks off on Main Street featuring tractors, cars, and floats from the late 1800s to the present. On Sunday, April 28, the celebration will conclude with a community worship service under the People’s Bank tent at 10:30 am. Everyone is welcome.

The Otis Old Iron Days celebration was founded in 1987 as a vision of Jim Funk, Harry Schneider, Ory Petersilie, and&nbsp;Jenny Landers, of Otis. Their idea was to give antique farm equipment collectors a chance to showcase and celebrate these historic artifacts of the past while providing a day of fun and entertainment. The last Old Iron Days celebration was held in April 2011. Old Iron Days 2024 is sponsored by the Otis Lions Club.

Throughout 2024, Rush County is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a year-long celebration,&nbsp;The 150-Year Rush. On December 5, 1874, Kansas Governor Thomas Osborn signed a proclamation formally establishing Rush County, Kansas. To commemorate, special sesquicentennial events are being held each month throughout the county. All events are open to the public.

For more information, or a complete schedule of events, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rushcounty.org/" target="_blank">www.rushcounty.org</a>&nbsp;or contact Rush County Economic Development at 785-222-2808 or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:celebrate150@rushcounty.org">celebrate150@rushcounty.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713366747517.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Old Iron is back after a 15-year break! As part of the 150th Anniversary of Rush County, Kansas, the people of Otis have resurrected Old Iron Days for a one-time encore celebration. The celebration will be held on April 26-28, 2024 in downtown Otis.Events begin on Friday the 26th at 6 pm with a Pancake Feed sponsored by the Otis Lions Club under the People’s Bank tent in the Otis City Park. Live music will be provided by “Off Duty.” A free will offering will be taken.On Saturday morning, events kick off with a car and antique tractor show from 10 am - 2 pm. Military vehicles will also be on display. There will be live blacksmithing demonstrations, and the Mountain Man Rendezvous will feature historical reenactments from the early 1800s. Food and craft vendors, games for the kids, and more will be set up downtown. The Rush County Historical Society will exhibit historical displays in the Senior Center from 10 am - 2 pm and after the parade. Balloons from the Messer Helium Plant will be available for the kids from 10 am – 12:00 pm.At 2:30 pm, the parade kicks off on Main Street featuring tractors, cars, and floats from the late 1800s to the present. On Sunday, April 28, the celebration will conclude with a community worship service under the People’s Bank tent at 10:30 am. Everyone is welcome.The Otis Old Iron Days celebration was founded in 1987 as a vision of Jim Funk, Harry Schneider, Ory Petersilie, and&nbsp;Jenny Landers, of Otis. Their idea was to give antique farm equipment collectors a chance to showcase and celebrate these historic artifacts of the past while providing a day of fun and entertainment. The last Old Iron Days celebration was held in April 2011. Old Iron Days 2024 is sponsored by the Otis Lions Club.Throughout 2024, Rush County is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a year-long celebration,&nbsp;The 150-Year Rush. On December 5, 1874, Kansas Governor Thomas Osborn signed a proclamation formally establishing Rush County, Kansas. To commemorate, special sesquicentennial events are being held each month throughout the county. All events are open to the public.For more information, or a complete schedule of events, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rushcounty.org/" target="_blank">www.rushcounty.org</a>&nbsp;or contact Rush County Economic Development at 785-222-2808 or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:celebrate150@rushcounty.org">celebrate150@rushcounty.org</a>.

Old Iron Days returns to Otis, Kansas

The presidential primaries are unfolding quietly.&nbsp; Having&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/2024-election/results/president/" target="_blank">clinched</a>&nbsp;their party nominations early, Biden and Trump have shifted focus toward the general election.&nbsp; &nbsp;

From the start, a stubborn and sizeable percentage of Democrat and Republican primary voters have refused to endorse the front runners.&nbsp; Instead, they have voted for the alternatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The significance of these votes becomes clear in battleground states where lingering inter-party divisions could determine the general election outcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the two crucial swing states of Georgia and Wisconsin, nearly 15 percent of Republican primary voters supported Nikki Haley.&nbsp;

This&nbsp;after&nbsp;she had quit the race.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior to that, Haley won 43 percent in New Hampshire, 27 percent in Michigan, and defeated Trump in Vermont.

Haley’s success was credited to open primaries where Independents and Democrats can participate.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

However, in Arizona’s closed primary Haley still captured nearly 18 percent.&nbsp; And in the Florida and Kansas closed primaries, she locked up 14 and 16 percent, respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In four of the five most populous Kansas counties, Haley’s percentages increased.&nbsp; She won 22 percent in Johnson, 18 percent in Sedgwick, 22 percent in Shawnee, and 26 percent in Douglas.

Adding in “none of the names shown” category, the statewide anti-Trump Kansas vote reached 21 percent or just over 20,000 GOP voters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a parallel trend is taking place among Democrats.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Biden’s decision to skip New Hampshire and award South Carolina the first primary spot disappointed many Granite State voters.&nbsp; As a result, Dean Phillips secured nearly 20 percent of the vote.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A few weeks later, over 100,000 Michigan Democrats casted uncommitted ballots protesting Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

In North Carolina the “no preference” option garnered nearly 90,000 votes.&nbsp; And in Kansas the “none of the names shown” option came in second place at 10 percent.&nbsp; The tally included almost 15 percent in solidly blue Douglas County, and 8 percent in Johnson and Sedgwick counties.&nbsp; &nbsp;

More recently, in pivotal swing state Wisconsin, 48,000 Democrats voted “<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-uninstructed-vote-shows-democratic-frustration-with-joe-biden/ar-BB1l1P41" target="_blank">uninstructed</a>”, twice the goal of the grassroots group&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-uninstructed-vote-shows-democratic-frustration-with-joe-biden/ar-BB1l1P41" target="_blank">Listen to Wisconsin</a>&nbsp;that demanded policy changes over the war in Gaza.&nbsp; Another 17,000 voted for Phillips, who ended his campaign weeks before.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Clearly, thousands of Democrats and Republicans are using presidential primaries to express their dissatisfaction.&nbsp;

Yet neither nominee appears eager to reach out to the disaffected.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Trump remains steadfast in his unapologetic style that does not sit well with moderate Republicans but resonates with some Democrat leaning groups including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/11/04/new-republican-party-working-class-coalition-00122822" target="_blank">working-class whites</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.realclearpolling.com/stories/analysis/will-blacks-vote-republican-a-political-science-perspective" target="_blank">Blacks</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/09/biden-approval-drops-democrat-popularity-rises-latino-voters" target="_blank">Latinos</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Biden campaign seems focused on capturing the Haley block, investing in ads that showcase Trump’s offensive comments directed at Haley.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The reality is few disaffected primary voters will cross party lines.&nbsp; In matters of ideology and policy they are still closer to their party nominee than the opposition.&nbsp;

However, it’s possible they stay home on election day or continue to protest by other means.&nbsp;

If protests occur&nbsp; during the summer – possibility at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/democratic-tensions-over-israel-threaten-to-boil-over-at-chicago-convention/ar-BB1ld4K9" target="_blank">party conventions</a>, it could spell real trouble.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So as the primaries near their conclusion, let’s see whether Biden and Trump take the necessary steps to unify their parties.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215697316.png" alt="written by: Dr. Mark Joslyn, professor of political science at the University of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>written by: Dr. Mark Joslyn, professor of political science at the University of Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>The presidential primaries are unfolding quietly.&nbsp; Having&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/2024-election/results/president/" target="_blank">clinched</a>&nbsp;their party nominations early, Biden and Trump have shifted focus toward the general election.&nbsp; &nbsp;Yet all is not well.&nbsp;From the start, a stubborn and sizeable percentage of Democrat and Republican primary voters have refused to endorse the front runners.&nbsp; Instead, they have voted for the alternatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The significance of these votes becomes clear in battleground states where lingering inter-party divisions could determine the general election outcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the two crucial swing states of Georgia and Wisconsin, nearly 15 percent of Republican primary voters supported Nikki Haley.&nbsp;This&nbsp;after&nbsp;she had quit the race.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Prior to that, Haley won 43 percent in New Hampshire, 27 percent in Michigan, and defeated Trump in Vermont.Haley’s success was credited to open primaries where Independents and Democrats can participate.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;However, in Arizona’s closed primary Haley still captured nearly 18 percent.&nbsp; And in the Florida and Kansas closed primaries, she locked up 14 and 16 percent, respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In four of the five most populous Kansas counties, Haley’s percentages increased.&nbsp; She won 22 percent in Johnson, 18 percent in Sedgwick, 22 percent in Shawnee, and 26 percent in Douglas.Adding in “none of the names shown” category, the statewide anti-Trump Kansas vote reached 21 percent or just over 20,000 GOP voters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, a parallel trend is taking place among Democrats.&nbsp; &nbsp;Biden’s decision to skip New Hampshire and award South Carolina the first primary spot disappointed many Granite State voters.&nbsp; As a result, Dean Phillips secured nearly 20 percent of the vote.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;A few weeks later, over 100,000 Michigan Democrats casted uncommitted ballots protesting Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;In North Carolina the “no preference” option garnered nearly 90,000 votes.&nbsp; And in Kansas the “none of the names shown” option came in second place at 10 percent.&nbsp; The tally included almost 15 percent in solidly blue Douglas County, and 8 percent in Johnson and Sedgwick counties.&nbsp; &nbsp;More recently, in pivotal swing state Wisconsin, 48,000 Democrats voted “<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-uninstructed-vote-shows-democratic-frustration-with-joe-biden/ar-BB1l1P41" target="_blank">uninstructed</a>”, twice the goal of the grassroots group&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-uninstructed-vote-shows-democratic-frustration-with-joe-biden/ar-BB1l1P41" target="_blank">Listen to Wisconsin</a>&nbsp;that demanded policy changes over the war in Gaza.&nbsp; Another 17,000 voted for Phillips, who ended his campaign weeks before.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Clearly, thousands of Democrats and Republicans are using presidential primaries to express their dissatisfaction.&nbsp;Yet neither nominee appears eager to reach out to the disaffected.&nbsp; &nbsp;Trump remains steadfast in his unapologetic style that does not sit well with moderate Republicans but resonates with some Democrat leaning groups including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/11/04/new-republican-party-working-class-coalition-00122822" target="_blank">working-class whites</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.realclearpolling.com/stories/analysis/will-blacks-vote-republican-a-political-science-perspective" target="_blank">Blacks</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/09/biden-approval-drops-democrat-popularity-rises-latino-voters" target="_blank">Latinos</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Biden campaign seems focused on capturing the Haley block, investing in ads that showcase Trump’s offensive comments directed at Haley.&nbsp; &nbsp;The reality is few disaffected primary voters will cross party lines.&nbsp; In matters of ideology and policy they are still closer to their party nominee than the opposition.&nbsp;However, it’s possible they stay home on election day or continue to protest by other means.&nbsp;If protests occur&nbsp; during the summer – possibility at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/democratic-tensions-over-israel-threaten-to-boil-over-at-chicago-convention/ar-BB1ld4K9" target="_blank">party conventions</a>, it could spell real trouble.&nbsp;&nbsp;So as the primaries near their conclusion, let’s see whether Biden and Trump take the necessary steps to unify their parties.&nbsp;&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Protest votes signal troubles for Biden and Trump

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with CASA of the High Plains executive director&nbsp;Jan Johnson.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HiZHgSSbXgE?si=TxdJjOj7HZupVOv2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with CASA of the High Plains executive director&nbsp;Jan Johnson.

🎤Forward Ever: CASA of the High Plains executive director Jan Johnson

Clara Barton Medical Center announced the addition of Tania Wirtz, APRN, to its team of clinicians in Hoisington. Wirtz brings a wealth of nursing experience and a compassionate approach to acute care, delivering walk-in healthcare services to the community.

Wirtz's journey in healthcare began over a decade ago when she pursued her Associate Degree in Nursing at Barton Community College. She then went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Newman University in 2013.

Her passion for patient care led her to various roles within the healthcare field, including long-term care, oncology, and most recently, a Registered Nurse on Clara Barton’s hospital inpatient floor.

With a desire to expand her scope of practice, Wirtz obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University in 2023 and recently joined Clara Barton Medical Clinic as a Family Nurse Practitioner. In her new role, Wirtz specializes in acute care seeing patients during walk-in clinic as well as providing same-day appointments on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday.

“The most rewarding thing about being a provider is being able to tell when a patient is put at ease because they can tell I care, and they feel heard as a person and not just a patient,” said Tania Wirtz, APRN. “Caring for others is a passion of mine inside and outside of work and I want that part of me to always show through as a provider and a nurse.”

Wirtz is a Central Kansas native, growing up in Hudson and Ellinwood. She’s married and the mother of four children, ages 16, 8, 5, and 4. Her family and animals all keep her busy and on her toes. While she doesn’t have much time for hobbies, she loves to play tennis and basketball and enjoys music and concerts. Her favorite sports teams to watch are the KC Chiefs, KU, and Golden State Warriors.

“We are excited to welcome Tania to our clinic team,” said Shayla Cook, Clinic Administrator. “Her genuine compassion, combined with her extensive nursing background, guarantees she’ll provide an exceptional level of care to her patients.”

For individuals seeking prompt medical attention for acute illnesses and injuries, Clara Barton Medical Clinic in Hoisington accepts walk-ins from 7:30 to 9:00 AM, Monday through Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713359571254.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSClara Barton Medical Center announced the addition of Tania Wirtz, APRN, to its team of clinicians in Hoisington. Wirtz brings a wealth of nursing experience and a compassionate approach to acute care, delivering walk-in healthcare services to the community.Wirtz's journey in healthcare began over a decade ago when she pursued her Associate Degree in Nursing at Barton Community College. She then went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Newman University in 2013.Her passion for patient care led her to various roles within the healthcare field, including long-term care, oncology, and most recently, a Registered Nurse on Clara Barton’s hospital inpatient floor.With a desire to expand her scope of practice, Wirtz obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University in 2023 and recently joined Clara Barton Medical Clinic as a Family Nurse Practitioner. In her new role, Wirtz specializes in acute care seeing patients during walk-in clinic as well as providing same-day appointments on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday.“The most rewarding thing about being a provider is being able to tell when a patient is put at ease because they can tell I care, and they feel heard as a person and not just a patient,” said Tania Wirtz, APRN. “Caring for others is a passion of mine inside and outside of work and I want that part of me to always show through as a provider and a nurse.”Wirtz is a Central Kansas native, growing up in Hudson and Ellinwood. She’s married and the mother of four children, ages 16, 8, 5, and 4. Her family and animals all keep her busy and on her toes. While she doesn’t have much time for hobbies, she loves to play tennis and basketball and enjoys music and concerts. Her favorite sports teams to watch are the KC Chiefs, KU, and Golden State Warriors.“We are excited to welcome Tania to our clinic team,” said Shayla Cook, Clinic Administrator. “Her genuine compassion, combined with her extensive nursing background, guarantees she’ll provide an exceptional level of care to her patients.”For individuals seeking prompt medical attention for acute illnesses and injuries, Clara Barton Medical Clinic in Hoisington accepts walk-ins from 7:30 to 9:00 AM, Monday through Friday.

Clara Barton Medical Clinic adds Tania Wirtz, APRN

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

In 2020, the 20th Judicial District that includes Barton, Rice, Russell, Stafford, and Ellsworth counties, received a $781,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish telehealth programs to be used by the Barton and Ellsworth County jails,&nbsp; as well as the various health departments in the district. Based on the success of that grant, Barton County Counselor Patrick Hoffman, Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee, and Barton's Director of IT Dereck Hollingshead applied for another grant. Tuesday morning, Woodmansee reported to the Barton County Commission that grant funds had been received.

"I'm excited for the opportunity because this is distance learning across multiple counties and the populations that, not just my department serves, but also the community corrections population, and other partners we can come and collaborate with," Woodmansee said.

The 2023 USDA B grant totaled $185,745 with a match of $28,730 from Barton County. The latest round will allow juvenile services and community corrections staff to connect with clients in the five counties in the district without the need for staff or clients to travel.

"We do know and recognize that transportation is a barrier to the clients and families that we serve," Woodmansee said. "If we can remove that, then regardless of which agency - us at juvenile services or community corrections, we can plug them in with that entity within our district. We can remove those barriers for those families."

The grant will allow Barton County to update various pieces of hardware and software, as well as better serve clients in the 20th Judicial District. The Center for Counseling and Consultation will partner with the district to utilize services. Hoffman applauded Woodmansee and Hollingshead for their efforts to secure the grant.

"Bringing in $185,000 of federal money is a great thing for Barton County," Hoffman said. "I think we should recognize we have a lot of employees like this. This is not in their job description for Marissa and Dereck to find these things; to do the extra Zoom meetings with USDA representatives to find out how to do this, to create a program, and all the work they're going to do to implement it. They didn't have to do this, but they both recognized this is going to benefit their programs and the county. They're going above and beyond what they're required to do to make this happen."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713375395719.jpeg" alt="Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee and Barton County IT Director Dereck Hollingshead updated commissioners about a USDA grant during Tuesday's meeting." />
 <figcaption>Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee and Barton County IT Director Dereck Hollingshead updated commissioners about a USDA grant during Tuesday's meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn 2020, the 20th Judicial District that includes Barton, Rice, Russell, Stafford, and Ellsworth counties, received a $781,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish telehealth programs to be used by the Barton and Ellsworth County jails,&nbsp; as well as the various health departments in the district. Based on the success of that grant, Barton County Counselor Patrick Hoffman, Juvenile Services Director Marissa Woodmansee, and Barton's Director of IT Dereck Hollingshead applied for another grant. Tuesday morning, Woodmansee reported to the Barton County Commission that grant funds had been received."I'm excited for the opportunity because this is distance learning across multiple counties and the populations that, not just my department serves, but also the community corrections population, and other partners we can come and collaborate with," Woodmansee said.The 2023 USDA B grant totaled $185,745 with a match of $28,730 from Barton County. The latest round will allow juvenile services and community corrections staff to connect with clients in the five counties in the district without the need for staff or clients to travel."We do know and recognize that transportation is a barrier to the clients and families that we serve," Woodmansee said. "If we can remove that, then regardless of which agency - us at juvenile services or community corrections, we can plug them in with that entity within our district. We can remove those barriers for those families."The grant will allow Barton County to update various pieces of hardware and software, as well as better serve clients in the 20th Judicial District. The Center for Counseling and Consultation will partner with the district to utilize services. Hoffman applauded Woodmansee and Hollingshead for their efforts to secure the grant."Bringing in $185,000 of federal money is a great thing for Barton County," Hoffman said. "I think we should recognize we have a lot of employees like this. This is not in their job description for Marissa and Dereck to find these things; to do the extra Zoom meetings with USDA representatives to find out how to do this, to create a program, and all the work they're going to do to implement it. They didn't have to do this, but they both recognized this is going to benefit their programs and the county. They're going above and beyond what they're required to do to make this happen."

Barton Co. employees applauded for efforts to secure technology grant

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks' walk-in hunting access program began in 1995 in an effort to enhance the hunting tradition by giving hunters access to private property. More than one million acres in the state are now used for walk-in hunting. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner reminds the public that those acres have a specific purpose.

"Walk-in hunting is for hunting purposes only," he said. "I've been seeing a lot of posts about people wanting to go shed-antler hunting or mushroom collecting or gathering on walk-in hunting, and neither of those activities are legal activities on walk-in hunting."

Even those legally hunting on the land cannot remove items from the land unless they obtain permission from the landowner. Antlers and mushrooms may be collected on public, state-managed lands, but even those cannot be sold.

"Any of the mushrooms that are collected on public lands, you can't collect those mushrooms and then turn around and sell them," Wagner said. "It's the same rule that you can't guide on public land or you can't have a lemonade stand in the middle of the Bottoms. You can't have any commercial use off of public land."

Four types of edible morel mushrooms grow in Kansas, and also several lookalikes that may be dangerous to consume. Most morel sightings in 2024 have come in the northeast corner of the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571333039832.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks' walk-in hunting access program began in 1995 in an effort to enhance the hunting tradition by giving hunters access to private property. More than one million acres in the state are now used for walk-in hunting. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner reminds the public that those acres have a specific purpose."Walk-in hunting is for hunting purposes only," he said. "I've been seeing a lot of posts about people wanting to go shed-antler hunting or mushroom collecting or gathering on walk-in hunting, and neither of those activities are legal activities on walk-in hunting."Even those legally hunting on the land cannot remove items from the land unless they obtain permission from the landowner. Antlers and mushrooms may be collected on public, state-managed lands, but even those cannot be sold."Any of the mushrooms that are collected on public lands, you can't collect those mushrooms and then turn around and sell them," Wagner said. "It's the same rule that you can't guide on public land or you can't have a lemonade stand in the middle of the Bottoms. You can't have any commercial use off of public land."Four types of edible morel mushrooms grow in Kansas, and also several lookalikes that may be dangerous to consume. Most morel sightings in 2024 have come in the northeast corner of the state.

Cheyenne Bottoms Manager: Walk-in hunting land has specific purpose

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Network Administrator James Cell that aired April 17, 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 Network Administrator James Cell that aired April 17, 2024.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Network Administrator James Cell" 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=6iifu-15ea2e7-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 Network Administrator James Cell

During the public comment section of the Great Bend City Council meeting
Monday, a citizen living in the southeast part of the city, said he would like
to see more law enforcement control south of 10th Street. 

The
citizen voiced concern over loud music, speeding and four-wheelers driving
through the area.


"We're tired of it. I'd like to go to sleep. I have to work. It wasn't like this three years ago, but it keeps getting worse. Now it's to the point that people are willing to do some stuff about it. Don't take it to that place."

The citizen referenced the troubled area as Kiowa Road to Plum Street. Receiving
a previous complaint from the citizen, Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark
said law enforcement patrols all areas of the town.


"Short of having somebody in that area all the time, I don't know what the answer is," said Haulmark. "What we did do was dedicate a two-man car to work for four hours on two consecutive Saturday nights. They stayed in that area of town. They did car stops. They looked for loud music complaints. They addressed any issues they saw."

Haulmark said the two-man patrol car found some incidents in the area, but was
not any busier than anywhere else in town.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713372289854.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostDuring the public comment section of the Great Bend City Council meeting
Monday, a citizen living in the southeast part of the city, said he would like
to see more law enforcement control south of 10th Street. The
citizen voiced concern over loud music, speeding and four-wheelers driving
through the area.
"We're tired of it. I'd like to go to sleep. I have to work. It wasn't like this three years ago, but it keeps getting worse. Now it's to the point that people are willing to do some stuff about it. Don't take it to that place."The citizen referenced the troubled area as Kiowa Road to Plum Street. Receiving
a previous complaint from the citizen, Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark
said law enforcement patrols all areas of the town.
"Short of having somebody in that area all the time, I don't know what the answer is," said Haulmark. "What we did do was dedicate a two-man car to work for four hours on two consecutive Saturday nights. They stayed in that area of town. They did car stops. They looked for loud music complaints. They addressed any issues they saw."Haulmark said the two-man patrol car found some incidents in the area, but was
not any busier than anywhere else in town.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Citizen asks for more officer patrol in south Great Bend

To get your name on the local ballot, potential candidates still have
more than six weeks to file. Currently, no one has filed for one the four seats
on the Great Bend City Council or the Hoisington City Council. Kirk Clawson is
the only name on the ballot as a city candidate, filing for one of the three
available positions on the Ellinwood City Council. 

Great Bend City
Administrator Brandon Anderson said four council terms will expire at the end
of the year.


"Expiring terms this year include Lindsey Krom-Craven in Ward 1, Kevyn Soupiset in Ward 2, Davis Jimenez in Ward 3 and Tina Mingenback in Ward 4."

With June 1 falling on a weekend, the filing deadline this year is
June 3 by 12 p.m. Interested individuals can file at the Barton
County Clerk’s Office between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

County candidates include incumbents Barb Esfeld and Shawn Hutchinson filing for another term on the Barton County Commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713361098069.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostTo get your name on the local ballot, potential candidates still have
more than six weeks to file. Currently, no one has filed for one the four seats
on the Great Bend City Council or the Hoisington City Council. Kirk Clawson is
the only name on the ballot as a city candidate, filing for one of the three
available positions on the Ellinwood City Council. Great Bend City
Administrator Brandon Anderson said four council terms will expire at the end
of the year.
"Expiring terms this year include Lindsey Krom-Craven in Ward 1, Kevyn Soupiset in Ward 2, Davis Jimenez in Ward 3 and Tina Mingenback in Ward 4."With June 1 falling on a weekend, the filing deadline this year is
June 3 by 12 p.m. Interested individuals can file at the Barton
County Clerk’s Office between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;County candidates include incumbents Barb Esfeld and Shawn Hutchinson filing for another term on the Barton County Commission.

Political filing deadline in Barton Co. is June 3

100.7 Eagle Country is currently off the air due to a scheduled power outage.&nbsp; You can stream KHOK online at GreatBendPost.com, click on the Eagle Country logo. We are expecting to be back on air around 3 p.m. Thank you for your patience.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630690945242.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>100.7 Eagle Country is currently off the air due to a scheduled power outage.&nbsp; You can stream KHOK online at GreatBendPost.com, click on the Eagle Country logo. We are expecting to be back on air around 3 p.m. Thank you for your patience.&nbsp;

KHOK power outage

The Sunflower Summer is a program that was created by the Kansas State
Department of Education and is now organized by Kansas Tourism. The online app
is designed to provide a variety of ways for families to get out, explore the
state and enjoy time together. 

Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau
Director Christina Hayes said the app includes dozens of attractions, museums,
zoos and more where families can go for free.


"You can go anywhere in the state of Kansas that is accepted through the app, and you get to go in for free," said Hayes. "The State of Kansas is going to reimburse those places. So the places we have will be reimbursed for all those people that come and travel."

Last year’s Sunflower Summer program ranged from the end of May through the
middle of August. This year, there will be three Great Bend destinations
included on the app.


"The State of Kansas will be announcing soon which three in Great Bend you can go explore," said Hayes. "The idea is get people from outside to come to Great Bend and explore our attractions that we have featured on that app."

Users can search “Sunflower Summer” in their app stores.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713363426450.jpeg" alt="Attractions for the 2024 Sunflower Summer app will be announced soon." />
 <figcaption>Attractions for the 2024 Sunflower Summer app will be announced soon.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Sunflower Summer is a program that was created by the Kansas State
Department of Education and is now organized by Kansas Tourism. The online app
is designed to provide a variety of ways for families to get out, explore the
state and enjoy time together. Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau
Director Christina Hayes said the app includes dozens of attractions, museums,
zoos and more where families can go for free.
"You can go anywhere in the state of Kansas that is accepted through the app, and you get to go in for free," said Hayes. "The State of Kansas is going to reimburse those places. So the places we have will be reimbursed for all those people that come and travel."Last year’s Sunflower Summer program ranged from the end of May through the
middle of August. This year, there will be three Great Bend destinations
included on the app.
"The State of Kansas will be announcing soon which three in Great Bend you can go explore," said Hayes. "The idea is get people from outside to come to Great Bend and explore our attractions that we have featured on that app."Users can search “Sunflower Summer” in their app stores.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Three Great Bend attractions in statewide summer tourism app

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/18)

At 8:11 a.m. an accident was reported in the 200 block of NE
60 Avenue.

At 4:29 p.m. a trespassing case was reported at 311 Main
Street in Claflin.

At 5:05 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 212
Hoisington Avenue in Susank.

At 6:06 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 1315 Susank
Road in Hoisington.

At 9:28 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at U.S. 281
Highway &amp; NE 90 Road in Hoisington.

At 9:41 p.m. a hanging was reported at the Barton County
Detention, 1408 Kansas Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/18)

At 1:10 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 308 Fruit
Street.

At 8:46 a.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 1600
block of Morphy Street.

At 3:03 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

At 3:22 p.m. fire testing was reported at 1809 24th
Street.

At 5:58 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3114 23rd
Street.

At 6:08 p.m. a minor accident was reported at 1133 Roxanne
Dr.

At 7:54 p.m. an overdose/poisoning was reported at 5807
Aspen Dr.

At 7:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 3709 10th
Street.

At 11 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 22nd
&amp; the 281 Bypass.

At 11:42 p.m. a fight was reported at 1109 Main Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/18)Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:11 a.m. an accident was reported in the 200 block of NE
60 Avenue.Trespassing / CriminalAt 4:29 p.m. a trespassing case was reported at 311 Main
Street in Claflin.Animal ComplaintAt 5:05 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 212
Hoisington Avenue in Susank.Criminal DamageAt 6:06 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 1315 Susank
Road in Hoisington.Cattle OutAt 9:28 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at U.S. 281
Highway &amp; NE 90 Road in Hoisington.HangingAt 9:41 p.m. a hanging was reported at the Barton County
Detention, 1408 Kansas Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/18)Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 1:10 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 308 Fruit
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 8:46 a.m. an animal complaint was reported in the 1600
block of Morphy Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:03 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.Structure FireAt 3:22 p.m. fire testing was reported at 1809 24th
Street.Allergies / Envenomation At 5:58 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3114 23rd
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:08 p.m. a minor accident was reported at 1133 Roxanne
Dr.Overdose / PoisoningAt 7:54 p.m. an overdose/poisoning was reported at 5807
Aspen Dr.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 3709 10th
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 11 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 22nd
&amp; the 281 Bypass.FightAt 11:42 p.m. a fight was reported at 1109 Main Street.

Cop Shop (4/18)

BOOKED: Alexander Brown on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for contempt of court with bond set at $669.50 cash only. Warrant for contempt of court with bond set at $472.50 cash only. Warrant for contempt of court with bond set at $448.50 cash only.

BOOKED: Craig Brenden on Barton County District Court case for trafficking contraband into a correctional facility, possession of methamphetamine, failure to purchase drug tax stamp, possession of paraphernalia, driving while suspended, possession of marijuana 3rd time (felony), bond set at $50,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Kelly Polzin on Barton County District Court warrant for probation violation with no bond. Barton County District Court warrant with no bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/18BOOKED: Alexander Brown on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for contempt of court with bond set at $669.50 cash only. Warrant for contempt of court with bond set at $472.50 cash only. Warrant for contempt of court with bond set at $448.50 cash only.BOOKED: Craig Brenden on Barton County District Court case for trafficking contraband into a correctional facility, possession of methamphetamine, failure to purchase drug tax stamp, possession of paraphernalia, driving while suspended, possession of marijuana 3rd time (felony), bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Kelly Polzin on Barton County District Court warrant for probation violation with no bond. Barton County District Court warrant with no bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/18)

In September 2021, Great Bend city officials announced a project was in the
works with the Kansas Department of Transportation to create dedicated
left-turn signals for all the traffic lights at the 10th Street and
McKinley Street intersection. 

Going through the KDOT timeframe with a few
delays, Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley said bid letting for the
project is expected late this summer.


"The signals will be the most state-of-the-art that we can get," said Cauley. "There will be an all-new camera system, everything will be replaced there. We'll have a protected turn signal for the north and south traffic."

North and southbound traffic on McKinley currently have to yield before making
a left turn onto 10th Street. The improvement will add left-turn
signals to all the traffic lights, which already exist for east and westbound
traffic on 10th Street.


"The project will put in the new poles and new lights," said Cauley. "The intersection is already built to support that."

The KDOT plan also calls for new LED pedestrian signals and ADA improvements to
the intersection.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632232353026.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn September 2021, Great Bend city officials announced a project was in the
works with the Kansas Department of Transportation to create dedicated
left-turn signals for all the traffic lights at the 10th Street and
McKinley Street intersection. Going through the KDOT timeframe with a few
delays, Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley said bid letting for the
project is expected late this summer.
"The signals will be the most state-of-the-art that we can get," said Cauley. "There will be an all-new camera system, everything will be replaced there. We'll have a protected turn signal for the north and south traffic."North and southbound traffic on McKinley currently have to yield before making
a left turn onto 10th Street. The improvement will add left-turn
signals to all the traffic lights, which already exist for east and westbound
traffic on 10th Street.
"The project will put in the new poles and new lights," said Cauley. "The intersection is already built to support that."The KDOT plan also calls for new LED pedestrian signals and ADA improvements to
the intersection.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bid process this summer for left-turn signals at 10th & McKinley 

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 61. East wind around 8 mph.

Tonight A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly after 10pm. Increasing clouds, with a low around 38. Northeast wind 8 to 14 mph.

Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers before 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 51. Northeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35. Northeast wind 6 to 10 mph becoming northwest after midnight.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 61. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40. Breezy.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy.

Monday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 47. Breezy.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Breezy.

Today Partly sunny, with a high near 61. East wind around 8 mph.Tonight A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly after 10pm. Increasing clouds, with a low around 38. Northeast wind 8 to 14 mph.Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers before 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 51. Northeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35. Northeast wind 6 to 10 mph becoming northwest after midnight.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 61. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40. Breezy.Monday Sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy.Monday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 47. Breezy.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Breezy.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.Wednesday A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 70.Wednesday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51.Thursday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local