Understanding the price of wheat is not as simple as driving to the local elevator to see the posted prices or checking bids on a website. Understanding the complexity of factors that go into setting that price includes analyzing supply and demand, logistical costs, geopolitical influences and other macro- and micro-economic factors. Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin sat down with Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations, to break down the 2023 wheat harvest and provide his perspective on domestic demand and global trade issues influencing the wheat world in the latest episode of the organization’s “Wheat’s on your Mind” podcast.

“Every year is a little bit different, but 2023 is probably going to be one of those years that does stand out for a long time on charts, and not just due to the overall challenges this crop faced,” Gilpin said. “Combined with the market volatility and unprecedented geopolitical events — everything that is occurring simultaneously within the wheat market right now is pretty incredible.”

The pair started by walking through the 2023 Kansas wheat harvest, which USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service currently estimates will be the smallest since 1966 at 208 million bushels on 6.5 million acres.&nbsp;

Gilpin referenced how that harvest number has shifted over the last two months, referencing a prior episode of the podcast with Dave Green, executive vice president at the Wheat Quality Council. The podcast followed the organization’s annual Hard Winter Wheat Tour in May 2023, during which participants calculated crop estimates from 652 wheat fields from Manhattan to Colby to Wichita.&nbsp;

The tour’s official yield estimate was 30 bushels per acre — right on target with USDA’s current projections — but the projection for total wheat production was 178 bushels. In comparison, USDA NASS predicted in its May 1 report that the Kansas crop would come in at 191 million bushels with average yields of 29 bushels per acre and abandonment at 18.5 percent.&nbsp;

“That low prediction was a surprise,” Gilpin recalled. “We knew it was a bad crop, but we didn’t know it was that bad.”

In the weeks immediately following the tour, however, rain started coming. Some producers received as much moisture in a four-week period than they had received in the previous 12 to 18 months.&nbsp;

“The rain started to change the tune a little bit,” Gilpin said. “Farmers started feeling a little better when it started replenishing some moisture. Some of that later-planted or later-maturing wheat benefitted from the rains and so the yield prospects from some of those areas started to improve.”

The rains did help fill heads, making a better-than-expected crop for many. USDA NASS currently estimates average yields at 32 bushels per acre compared to 19.5 bushels per acre in 1966, a gain directly attributable to improvement in available wheat genetics, recommended farming practices and decades of on-farm knowledge. Test weights also started strong with heavy heads at 62 pounds per bushel.

“Kansas farmers are proud of the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center that they’ve invested in and the strides that we’ve made in the past decade to address the challenges that farmers are facing — whether it’s through double haploid production or identifying heat and drought tolerance,” Gilpin said. “It’s an important investment that farmers are making. It’s harder to see dividends from those investments in years like this, but I like to think that those strides have kept this from being a bigger disaster than it could have been.”&nbsp;

There’s no question that drought took a heavy toll with higher-than-average abandonment across the state. Rain also brought its own challenges, mainly in the form of increasing weed pressure and continual harvest delays. As a result, test weights dropped from their early highs as harvest progressed and more fields were abandoned, some due to weeds. All that means the final numbers for the 2023 Kansas wheat crop are likely to continue to drop. USDA-NASS will put out an updated estimate on the Kansas wheat crop in August, but the final count for the Kansas wheat crop will not come until the agency’s Small Grains Annual Summary on September 30.&nbsp;

“Whether it’s been the hailstorms or the weed pressure, with all the challenges we’ve had trying to get this crop out of the field for Kansas, it wouldn’t surprise me to see that number come down a bit,” Gilpin said.&nbsp;

The good news is that while the crop did not make the bushels, it did have high protein. Protein and yield are usually inversely proportional — so lower-yielding crops have higher protein and vice versa. The central corridor in Kansas reported proteins averaging 13 or 14 percent, while the western third of the state had more variability from 10 to 14 percent. That’s good news for millers and bakers who utilize hard red winter (HRW) wheat for products like bread or tortillas that require that strength.&nbsp;

“The early comments we’re hearing from industry is that the wheat is performing adequately, similar to last year,” Gilpin said.&nbsp;

But while the combines are finally finishing rolling in Kansas, the value of that protein won’t be fully defined until the spring wheat harvest is complete in the northern Great Plains. Hard red spring wheat is generally a high-protein crop, so if the crop in those states is more successful than in Kansas, the market may not reward producers or elevators with premiums for protein. In fact, it’s equally as likely some buyers will seek out lower-protein wheat to offset some of the higher-protein wheat.&nbsp;

In addition, producers further east grew an almost record soft red winter (SRW) wheat crop in the Mississippi and Ohio river valleys. There is currently a $1.50 to $2.00 per bushel difference between HRW and SRW wheat — primarily because soft wheat doesn't have the bread-making capability of hard wheat.&nbsp;Despite the milling and baking differences, a large supply of SRW wheat is tempting when the HRW crop suffers.

“Buyers are going to be able to buy what they want, but it’s certainly going to be an interesting year,” Gilpin said. “You are going to see some millers and bakers that are trying to offset some of the costs that they’re seeing. That includes trying to blend in some soft wheat when the hard red winter wheat crop is going to be the smallest in years.”

All these supplies factor into the overall stocks-to-use ratio, which is used to estimate how much wheat is available globally to meet the needs of consumers around the world. While overall wheat supplies are tighter than anyone in the supply chain would prefer, stocks-to-use ratios remain above the concerning levels from 2007/2008. Geopolitically, however, the enduring tensions between Russia and Ukraine will continue to have a direct impact on the availability of world wheat stocks as well as from where the world buyers can source those stocks.&nbsp;

“The Black Sea does create some uncertainties that do start to question some of that availability of the stocks-to-use ratio because of an availability issue out of that region,” Gilpin said. “There’s been a strategic intent of Russia attacking grain terminals and then explicitly saying that even without Ukrainian wheat exports, Russia can be that supplier and replace them.”

“One out of every five vessels is going to be delivering food around the world from Russia. When they have that control, they are following it up with their intention of trying to leverage influence in friendly countries and governments. It’s a very unnerving place that world trade is entering right now.”

All these influences on the price of wheat bear watching as producers shift their focus from a frustrating and challenging 2023 wheat harvest to putting the 2024 crop into the ground. Gilpin said Kansas Wheat is continuing to look even further down the road to forecast what the world of wheat will look like and how to position Kansas wheat farmers in that economic landscape.&nbsp;

“We’re going to need prices to stay favorable and we’re going to need Mother Nature to cooperate,” Gilpin said. “And we must start thinking longer term, not just where we’re going to be a year from now. What do we have to be doing to put in place all the things across the whole value chain in the wheat industry to make sure that we’re protecting our national interest in having a productive and successful wheat crop from farmer to baker to consumer.”

Learn more about Gilpin’s perspectives on this year’s harvest, supply-and-demand factors across wheat classes, end-use quality, international market influences and more in the latest episode of the “Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Zu_kSxRv_FBCHtc6feQSjUwDZFd72dak8uBqOvWN1iYOm7tK-ismBfPuyrlmY1uDQ-Z_A3G6BKShf1kwW3ms1RnxcvJ0bOzZgKHIS0beQqGcS1-pmz6WCB9SSELTlXlF-XdIMQGdK72iw5HQFKa10A==&amp;c=NyHqzWisz0ndPHVzNtbkczN_y7IpF_tvTv6ZGJPa-HWUQg6yRAcemA==&amp;ch=Qu2hozJ_ZxFvCTd503D9ENBWHXRkoEsvMHSWyQZs5syhRWi5dKVeGQ==" target="_blank">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684379707210.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Understanding the price of wheat is not as simple as driving to the local elevator to see the posted prices or checking bids on a website. Understanding the complexity of factors that go into setting that price includes analyzing supply and demand, logistical costs, geopolitical influences and other macro- and micro-economic factors. Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin sat down with Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations, to break down the 2023 wheat harvest and provide his perspective on domestic demand and global trade issues influencing the wheat world in the latest episode of the organization’s “Wheat’s on your Mind” podcast.“Every year is a little bit different, but 2023 is probably going to be one of those years that does stand out for a long time on charts, and not just due to the overall challenges this crop faced,” Gilpin said. “Combined with the market volatility and unprecedented geopolitical events — everything that is occurring simultaneously within the wheat market right now is pretty incredible.”The pair started by walking through the 2023 Kansas wheat harvest, which USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service currently estimates will be the smallest since 1966 at 208 million bushels on 6.5 million acres.&nbsp;Gilpin referenced how that harvest number has shifted over the last two months, referencing a prior episode of the podcast with Dave Green, executive vice president at the Wheat Quality Council. The podcast followed the organization’s annual Hard Winter Wheat Tour in May 2023, during which participants calculated crop estimates from 652 wheat fields from Manhattan to Colby to Wichita.&nbsp;The tour’s official yield estimate was 30 bushels per acre — right on target with USDA’s current projections — but the projection for total wheat production was 178 bushels. In comparison, USDA NASS predicted in its May 1 report that the Kansas crop would come in at 191 million bushels with average yields of 29 bushels per acre and abandonment at 18.5 percent.&nbsp;“That low prediction was a surprise,” Gilpin recalled. “We knew it was a bad crop, but we didn’t know it was that bad.”In the weeks immediately following the tour, however, rain started coming. Some producers received as much moisture in a four-week period than they had received in the previous 12 to 18 months.&nbsp;“The rain started to change the tune a little bit,” Gilpin said. “Farmers started feeling a little better when it started replenishing some moisture. Some of that later-planted or later-maturing wheat benefitted from the rains and so the yield prospects from some of those areas started to improve.”The rains did help fill heads, making a better-than-expected crop for many. USDA NASS currently estimates average yields at 32 bushels per acre compared to 19.5 bushels per acre in 1966, a gain directly attributable to improvement in available wheat genetics, recommended farming practices and decades of on-farm knowledge. Test weights also started strong with heavy heads at 62 pounds per bushel.“Kansas farmers are proud of the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center that they’ve invested in and the strides that we’ve made in the past decade to address the challenges that farmers are facing — whether it’s through double haploid production or identifying heat and drought tolerance,” Gilpin said. “It’s an important investment that farmers are making. It’s harder to see dividends from those investments in years like this, but I like to think that those strides have kept this from being a bigger disaster than it could have been.”&nbsp;There’s no question that drought took a heavy toll with higher-than-average abandonment across the state. Rain also brought its own challenges, mainly in the form of increasing weed pressure and continual harvest delays. As a result, test weights dropped from their early highs as harvest progressed and more fields were abandoned, some due to weeds. All that means the final numbers for the 2023 Kansas wheat crop are likely to continue to drop. USDA-NASS will put out an updated estimate on the Kansas wheat crop in August, but the final count for the Kansas wheat crop will not come until the agency’s Small Grains Annual Summary on September 30.&nbsp;“Whether it’s been the hailstorms or the weed pressure, with all the challenges we’ve had trying to get this crop out of the field for Kansas, it wouldn’t surprise me to see that number come down a bit,” Gilpin said.&nbsp;The good news is that while the crop did not make the bushels, it did have high protein. Protein and yield are usually inversely proportional — so lower-yielding crops have higher protein and vice versa. The central corridor in Kansas reported proteins averaging 13 or 14 percent, while the western third of the state had more variability from 10 to 14 percent. That’s good news for millers and bakers who utilize hard red winter (HRW) wheat for products like bread or tortillas that require that strength.&nbsp;“The early comments we’re hearing from industry is that the wheat is performing adequately, similar to last year,” Gilpin said.&nbsp;But while the combines are finally finishing rolling in Kansas, the value of that protein won’t be fully defined until the spring wheat harvest is complete in the northern Great Plains. Hard red spring wheat is generally a high-protein crop, so if the crop in those states is more successful than in Kansas, the market may not reward producers or elevators with premiums for protein. In fact, it’s equally as likely some buyers will seek out lower-protein wheat to offset some of the higher-protein wheat.&nbsp;In addition, producers further east grew an almost record soft red winter (SRW) wheat crop in the Mississippi and Ohio river valleys. There is currently a $1.50 to $2.00 per bushel difference between HRW and SRW wheat — primarily because soft wheat doesn't have the bread-making capability of hard wheat.&nbsp;Despite the milling and baking differences, a large supply of SRW wheat is tempting when the HRW crop suffers.“Buyers are going to be able to buy what they want, but it’s certainly going to be an interesting year,” Gilpin said. “You are going to see some millers and bakers that are trying to offset some of the costs that they’re seeing. That includes trying to blend in some soft wheat when the hard red winter wheat crop is going to be the smallest in years.”All these supplies factor into the overall stocks-to-use ratio, which is used to estimate how much wheat is available globally to meet the needs of consumers around the world. While overall wheat supplies are tighter than anyone in the supply chain would prefer, stocks-to-use ratios remain above the concerning levels from 2007/2008. Geopolitically, however, the enduring tensions between Russia and Ukraine will continue to have a direct impact on the availability of world wheat stocks as well as from where the world buyers can source those stocks.&nbsp;“The Black Sea does create some uncertainties that do start to question some of that availability of the stocks-to-use ratio because of an availability issue out of that region,” Gilpin said. “There’s been a strategic intent of Russia attacking grain terminals and then explicitly saying that even without Ukrainian wheat exports, Russia can be that supplier and replace them.”“One out of every five vessels is going to be delivering food around the world from Russia. When they have that control, they are following it up with their intention of trying to leverage influence in friendly countries and governments. It’s a very unnerving place that world trade is entering right now.”All these influences on the price of wheat bear watching as producers shift their focus from a frustrating and challenging 2023 wheat harvest to putting the 2024 crop into the ground. Gilpin said Kansas Wheat is continuing to look even further down the road to forecast what the world of wheat will look like and how to position Kansas wheat farmers in that economic landscape.&nbsp;“We’re going to need prices to stay favorable and we’re going to need Mother Nature to cooperate,” Gilpin said. “And we must start thinking longer term, not just where we’re going to be a year from now. What do we have to be doing to put in place all the things across the whole value chain in the wheat industry to make sure that we’re protecting our national interest in having a productive and successful wheat crop from farmer to baker to consumer.”Learn more about Gilpin’s perspectives on this year’s harvest, supply-and-demand factors across wheat classes, end-use quality, international market influences and more in the latest episode of the “Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Zu_kSxRv_FBCHtc6feQSjUwDZFd72dak8uBqOvWN1iYOm7tK-ismBfPuyrlmY1uDQ-Z_A3G6BKShf1kwW3ms1RnxcvJ0bOzZgKHIS0beQqGcS1-pmz6WCB9SSELTlXlF-XdIMQGdK72iw5HQFKa10A==&amp;c=NyHqzWisz0ndPHVzNtbkczN_y7IpF_tvTv6ZGJPa-HWUQg6yRAcemA==&amp;ch=Qu2hozJ_ZxFvCTd503D9ENBWHXRkoEsvMHSWyQZs5syhRWi5dKVeGQ==" target="_blank">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.

Wheat Scoop: Kansas Wheat CEO breaks down how the wheat world turns

Hoisington Public Library, 169 S. Walnut, will host a book signing with local writer Becky Gillette Aug. 17 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. She will speak at 6 p.m.

Gillette wrote a devotional book called Jessie’s Corner with daily devotionals based on her reading of the Bible in a different manner.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688656594346.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hoisington Public Library, 169 S. Walnut, will host a book signing with local writer Becky Gillette Aug. 17 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. She will speak at 6 p.m.Gillette wrote a devotional book called Jessie’s Corner with daily devotionals based on her reading of the Bible in a different manner.Refreshments will be served.

Hoisington Library to host book signing with Becky Gillette

Put the pedal to the metal and park it at the 11th annual Rolling Sculpture Car Show on the Barton County Historical Society’s grounds on Saturday, Aug. 19 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. 

Admission to the museum grounds is free and concessions will be provided by local food trucks Simplicious Snow Cones, Tacos Del Sol and Yo Dog Wieners. 

The car show highlights not only the automotive passions of our community but also how design approaches evolve over time. Each and every one of these meticulously cared for vehicles of yesteryear reflect the passion and dedication these owners have to their moving pieces of art. 

Those who wish to show their vehicles should arrive by 9 a.m. Please remember children need to be supervised and no bicycles or pets on the grounds please.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690923991142.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Put the pedal to the metal and park it at the 11th annual Rolling Sculpture Car Show on the Barton County Historical Society’s grounds on Saturday, Aug. 19 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Admission to the museum grounds is free and concessions will be provided by local food trucks Simplicious Snow Cones, Tacos Del Sol and Yo Dog Wieners. The car show highlights not only the automotive passions of our community but also how design approaches evolve over time. Each and every one of these meticulously cared for vehicles of yesteryear reflect the passion and dedication these owners have to their moving pieces of art. Those who wish to show their vehicles should arrive by 9 a.m. Please remember children need to be supervised and no bicycles or pets on the grounds please.

Barton Co. Historical Society car show Aug. 19

On August 14, Dolly Parton is coming to Kansas to celebrate the statewide success of her Imagination Library program.

Dolly's Imagination Library is an example of how music, art, and culture can intersect with social change. Through her deep commitment to education and literacy, Dolly has shown that celebrities can be powerful catalysts for positive transformation.

Founded in 1995 by Dolly Parton herself, the Imagination Library is a unique book-gifting program that provides free books to children from birth to five years old with the mission of fostering a lifelong passion for reading.

The program runs in all 50 U.S. states, including our very own Kansas, and has gifted over 200 million free books across the globe.

The Imagination Library has had a significant positive impact on childhood development and literacy skills for Kansas’ children.

Research has consistently shown that early exposure to books and reading positively influences a child's cognitive development, language skills, and emotional well-being.

Children who have participated in the program have demonstrated better preparedness for school, stronger reading and math skills, improved vocabulary, and increased levels of reading comprehension.

Some studies have indicated that children who participated in the Imagination Library program are more likely to perform better academically throughout their school years. Improved early literacy skills have been associated with higher achievement levels in later grades.

The Imagination Library has also become a significant force in leveling the playing field for young readers.

By delivering carefully selected books tailored to each child's age and interests, Dolly's Library has equalized access to education for children irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.

The Imagination Library ensures that every child, regardless of their family’s socio-economic status, has access to books from an early age.

By providing free books directly to children's homes, the library ensures that even those in underserved and disadvantaged communities have access to quality literature. This reduces educational disparities and helps bridge the gap between different social and economic groups, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all children.

While Dolly’s Imagination Library provides an incredibly important service for children, and certainly earns the praise it receives, it is also indicative of a concerning societal shift towards the outsourcing of public services.

Rather than coming together in collective action and making demands on government — like increasing funding to local libraries — citizens are relying on private entities to provide public goods — like sending free books through the mail.

When public services are outsourced to private entities, citizens may feel less connected to the provision of those services. They might also perceive their role in contributing to the common good as diminished.

Research on civic engagement suggests that this leads to a reduced sense of civic duty, which results in a less engaged, informed, and active citizenry.

Civic duty refers to the responsibility and obligation citizens feel to actively engage in the democratic process and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

When citizens experience a weakening of this sense of duty, it can lead to reduced levels of participation in several ways: a decline in political engagement, decreased interest in public affairs, and lower levels of volunteering and community involvement, just to name a few.

Citizen involvement is essential for a robust and thriving society. Historically, such involvement has pressured government to create comprehensive and equitable social safety nets that address the broad spectrum of societal needs. Charitable organizations like the Imagination Library can complement and enhance government efforts, but a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors is most effective in achieving lasting social change.

So, while charitable organizations like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library provide an important service to young children, they should not be viewed as a replacement for government-provided public goods.

Alexandra Middlewood, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377761670.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University." />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>On August 14, Dolly Parton is coming to Kansas to celebrate the statewide success of her Imagination Library program.Dolly's Imagination Library is an example of how music, art, and culture can intersect with social change. Through her deep commitment to education and literacy, Dolly has shown that celebrities can be powerful catalysts for positive transformation.Founded in 1995 by Dolly Parton herself, the Imagination Library is a unique book-gifting program that provides free books to children from birth to five years old with the mission of fostering a lifelong passion for reading.The program runs in all 50 U.S. states, including our very own Kansas, and has gifted over 200 million free books across the globe.The Imagination Library has had a significant positive impact on childhood development and literacy skills for Kansas’ children.Research has consistently shown that early exposure to books and reading positively influences a child's cognitive development, language skills, and emotional well-being.Children who have participated in the program have demonstrated better preparedness for school, stronger reading and math skills, improved vocabulary, and increased levels of reading comprehension.Some studies have indicated that children who participated in the Imagination Library program are more likely to perform better academically throughout their school years. Improved early literacy skills have been associated with higher achievement levels in later grades.The Imagination Library has also become a significant force in leveling the playing field for young readers.By delivering carefully selected books tailored to each child's age and interests, Dolly's Library has equalized access to education for children irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.The Imagination Library ensures that every child, regardless of their family’s socio-economic status, has access to books from an early age.By providing free books directly to children's homes, the library ensures that even those in underserved and disadvantaged communities have access to quality literature. This reduces educational disparities and helps bridge the gap between different social and economic groups, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While Dolly’s Imagination Library provides an incredibly important service for children, and certainly earns the praise it receives, it is also indicative of a concerning societal shift towards the outsourcing of public services.Rather than coming together in collective action and making demands on government — like increasing funding to local libraries — citizens are relying on private entities to provide public goods — like sending free books through the mail.When public services are outsourced to private entities, citizens may feel less connected to the provision of those services. They might also perceive their role in contributing to the common good as diminished.Research on civic engagement suggests that this leads to a reduced sense of civic duty, which results in a less engaged, informed, and active citizenry.Civic duty refers to the responsibility and obligation citizens feel to actively engage in the democratic process and contribute to the well-being of their communities.When citizens experience a weakening of this sense of duty, it can lead to reduced levels of participation in several ways: a decline in political engagement, decreased interest in public affairs, and lower levels of volunteering and community involvement, just to name a few.Citizen involvement is essential for a robust and thriving society. Historically, such involvement has pressured government to create comprehensive and equitable social safety nets that address the broad spectrum of societal needs. Charitable organizations like the Imagination Library can complement and enhance government efforts, but a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors is most effective in achieving lasting social change.So, while charitable organizations like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library provide an important service to young children, they should not be viewed as a replacement for government-provided public goods.Alexandra Middlewood, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of political science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Private organizations no replacement for government public goods

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/4ccf9359-e684-4a3f-b07a-60141ab74824">Tragedy averted with 8-year-old on ATV in Barton Co.</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e435b64d-3b7f-486b-8dfd-e41d0b5680d2">'No' vote prevails: USD 112 Central Plains to remain intact</a>

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/f1ad6148-9853-446c-baad-56e5dd7ca455">Ellinwood family recovering after house was struck by lightning</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690897149527.jpeg" alt="A truck applied heavy breaking as well as steering toward the ditch four miles south of Albert on July 31, 2023 to avoid an ATV driven by an 8-year-old." />
 <figcaption>A truck applied heavy breaking as well as steering toward the ditch four miles south of Albert on July 31, 2023 to avoid an ATV driven by an 8-year-old.</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/nutc5vmf/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/4ccf9359-e684-4a3f-b07a-60141ab74824">Tragedy averted with 8-year-old on ATV in Barton Co.</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/e435b64d-3b7f-486b-8dfd-e41d0b5680d2">'No' vote prevails: USD 112 Central Plains to remain intact</a><a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/f1ad6148-9853-446c-baad-56e5dd7ca455">Ellinwood family recovering after house was struck by lightning</a>

Eagle Radio's news week in review

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

It's not quite Mayberry. But the open red door, an apron full of tools, and cups of coffee and friendly waves from a wooden bench outside the shop bring back memories of yesteryear in downtown Great Bend. Matt Felke, also known as the Boot Doctor at 1306 Kansas Ave., purchased the shop from Jerry Becker in 2008.

"I earned my living on horseback for 30-plus years," Felke said. "I was getting so beat up I could hardly get on and off a horse anymore. I brought some boots in here to Mr. Becker to get them fixed and made the smart remark of what am I going to do if you ever retire? You're going to have to teach me so I can do it from home."

Felke grew up in Great Bend, then spent time cowboying in Colorado, riding a ranch southeast of Great Bend, and he spent 14 years in the pens at Great Bend Feeders. But he eventually learn the repair craft. Becker owned Becker Shoe Repair at the location for approximately 24 years before Felke moved in. The sign says Boot Doctor, but Felke and his part-time staff of Fred Gullett and Donna Selle can repair just about anything.

"If I can get it in the machine, I'll stitch it," Felke said. "That machine over there will stitch up to an inch thick so there are very few things I can't stitch."

The shop includes leather conditioners and rare shoe polish colors that are otherwise impossible to find locally. Felke repairs all types of leather goods, including saddles, and he's made everything from cell phone cases, knife sheaths, and custom chaps. Non-leather work includes zipper repair, lawnmower bags, purses, and once the padding used by a Kansas City-area officer that trains police dogs. He's also done work for the Fort Larned Historical Museum.

"In the old Westerns, when you see the stagecoach and they put the luggage on the back, there's a canvas or leather deal that comes down and covers it. That's called the mudflap on a stagecoach. They had one over at Larned made out of vinyl and it disintegrated in one summer. They brought it over here and we duplicated it with real leather like it would have been in the 1800s."

The shop does sell new boots, though stock has been limited since the COVID-19 pandemic. While most shoes can be fixed, Felke prefers shoes made in the United States.

"I promote and I endorse American-made," he said. "A lot of stuff is made overseas. Most of that stuff is not intended to repair. You pay a little more for American-made but I can rebuild it. Usually, the foreign stuff is made to throw away."

The Boot Doctor is open Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690997665275.jpeg" alt="The Boot Doctor Owner Matt Felke has operated out of his shop at 1306 Kansas Ave. in Great Bend since 2008." />
 <figcaption>The Boot Doctor Owner Matt Felke has operated out of his shop at 1306 Kansas Ave. in Great Bend since 2008.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIt's not quite Mayberry. But the open red door, an apron full of tools, and cups of coffee and friendly waves from a wooden bench outside the shop bring back memories of yesteryear in downtown Great Bend. Matt Felke, also known as the Boot Doctor at 1306 Kansas Ave., purchased the shop from Jerry Becker in 2008."I earned my living on horseback for 30-plus years," Felke said. "I was getting so beat up I could hardly get on and off a horse anymore. I brought some boots in here to Mr. Becker to get them fixed and made the smart remark of what am I going to do if you ever retire? You're going to have to teach me so I can do it from home."Felke grew up in Great Bend, then spent time cowboying in Colorado, riding a ranch southeast of Great Bend, and he spent 14 years in the pens at Great Bend Feeders. But he eventually learn the repair craft. Becker owned Becker Shoe Repair at the location for approximately 24 years before Felke moved in. The sign says Boot Doctor, but Felke and his part-time staff of Fred Gullett and Donna Selle can repair just about anything.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690997789524.jpeg" alt="Felke is usually accompanied by workers Fred Gullett and Donna Selle - and a cup of coffee - on the bench outside his shop." />
 <figcaption>Felke is usually accompanied by workers Fred Gullett and Donna Selle - and a cup of coffee - on the bench outside his shop.</figcaption>
 </figure>"If I can get it in the machine, I'll stitch it," Felke said. "That machine over there will stitch up to an inch thick so there are very few things I can't stitch."The shop includes leather conditioners and rare shoe polish colors that are otherwise impossible to find locally. Felke repairs all types of leather goods, including saddles, and he's made everything from cell phone cases, knife sheaths, and custom chaps. Non-leather work includes zipper repair, lawnmower bags, purses, and once the padding used by a Kansas City-area officer that trains police dogs. He's also done work for the Fort Larned Historical Museum."In the old Westerns, when you see the stagecoach and they put the luggage on the back, there's a canvas or leather deal that comes down and covers it. That's called the mudflap on a stagecoach. They had one over at Larned made out of vinyl and it disintegrated in one summer. They brought it over here and we duplicated it with real leather like it would have been in the 1800s."The shop does sell new boots, though stock has been limited since the COVID-19 pandemic. While most shoes can be fixed, Felke prefers shoes made in the United States."I promote and I endorse American-made," he said. "A lot of stuff is made overseas. Most of that stuff is not intended to repair. You pay a little more for American-made but I can rebuild it. Usually, the foreign stuff is made to throw away."The Boot Doctor is open Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Boot Doctor a throwback to old times in downtown Great Bend

Grab your lucky dice and your best James Bond movie lines and join us at the Great Bend Events Center to celebrate the Barton Community College Foundation’s 44th Annual Big Benefit Auction on Aug. 26.

Come celebrate the evening with friends and support scholarships and programs at Barton Community College.

Tickets are $50, and tables are available for purchase for groups and businesses. Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@bartonccc.edu">foundation@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;by&nbsp;Aug. 11.

The evening includes dinner, complimentary beer, silent and live auctions, along with our Old Bill Honorarium, a direct scholarship donation opportunity. This year the Foundation is proud to celebrate the dedication and support of Larry and Jan Westfall.

Auction items range from experiences to merchandise to gift certificates and cards to all of your favorite businesses. Check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=782533&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1818387&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fbartonccc.ejoinme.org%2F2023BCCFAuction&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=09bee9643f134b54e509a37458d81e1ca990ba897f36b32b701a47f4fcea5102" target="_blank">PREVIEW</a>&nbsp;of auction items online and get your tickets to be able to bid on these one-of-a-kind items and experiences.

For $25 a ticket, attendees can get a Golden Ticket, and one lucky winner will be drawn to win $1,000 to spend at the auction.

It’s time to save your seat and get your top-secret mission to have a great time supporting our community and our college. Click&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=782533&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1818387&amp;destination=http%3A%2F%2Fqrco.de%2Fbe8iNE&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=3eabc9894edc2c1be647e26a54dabed94abedf8a9cfe4b4109663ff3e744997e" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to purchase tickets or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@bartonccc.edu">foundation@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;by Aug. 11.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690992993315.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grab your lucky dice and your best James Bond movie lines and join us at the Great Bend Events Center to celebrate the Barton Community College Foundation’s 44th Annual Big Benefit Auction on Aug. 26.Come celebrate the evening with friends and support scholarships and programs at Barton Community College.Tickets are $50, and tables are available for purchase for groups and businesses. Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@bartonccc.edu">foundation@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;by&nbsp;Aug. 11.The evening includes dinner, complimentary beer, silent and live auctions, along with our Old Bill Honorarium, a direct scholarship donation opportunity. This year the Foundation is proud to celebrate the dedication and support of Larry and Jan Westfall.Auction items range from experiences to merchandise to gift certificates and cards to all of your favorite businesses. Check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=782533&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1818387&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fbartonccc.ejoinme.org%2F2023BCCFAuction&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=09bee9643f134b54e509a37458d81e1ca990ba897f36b32b701a47f4fcea5102" target="_blank">PREVIEW</a>&nbsp;of auction items online and get your tickets to be able to bid on these one-of-a-kind items and experiences.For $25 a ticket, attendees can get a Golden Ticket, and one lucky winner will be drawn to win $1,000 to spend at the auction.It’s time to save your seat and get your top-secret mission to have a great time supporting our community and our college. Click&nbsp;<a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=7836933&amp;msgid=782533&amp;act=MVHG&amp;c=116427&amp;pid=1818387&amp;destination=http%3A%2F%2Fqrco.de%2Fbe8iNE&amp;cf=5504&amp;v=3eabc9894edc2c1be647e26a54dabed94abedf8a9cfe4b4109663ff3e744997e" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to purchase tickets or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@bartonccc.edu">foundation@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;by Aug. 11.

Get tickets for Barton CC Foundation's Big Benefit Auction

Story and photo by Joe Vinduska&nbsp;

This spring, Army veteran Hannah Ewert of Texas earned her associate degree from Barton Community College at Fort Leavenworth and is now ready to look toward her future.

“I really want to work in law enforcement or corrections because while in the Army, my military operating specialty (MOS) was a corrections specialist, so it is easy to continue on that path, but I also have the desire to work as an addiction counselor because I have seen firsthand the effects that drugs have on people so I would like to help others,” she said.

Ewert said Barton’s ability to accommodate her schedule as part of a military family made it possible for her to work on her education and continue to care for her children.&nbsp;

“I love how Barton offers online and Zoom classes because my kids are still young, and when they are out of school, I am still able to take classes,” she said.

Ewert took advantage of Barton’s LSEC classes which are available to active-duty soldiers and their dependents as well as any Department of Defense employees on base. Her experience in the military was also helpful in achieving her goal of graduating because time served can equal credit hours towards a degree as well.

“With my military transcript, I only had to take certain required classes within my field of study because a lot of my electives were completed through my military experience,” she said.

Ewert plans to take a break from education to focus on her family but said her experience at Barton energized her desire to learn.

“Barton has been great, and the instructors are very encouraging and make the learning experience so enjoyable,” she said.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fl.bartonccc.edu/">FL.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;for more information about Barton’s many programs and services to the public, soldiers, and their families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690999873718.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College at Fort Leavenworth Hannah Ewert takes time out before classes to take a photo in the Fort Leavenworth Education Center during the fall semester." />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College at Fort Leavenworth Hannah Ewert takes time out before classes to take a photo in the Fort Leavenworth Education Center during the fall semester.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Joe Vinduska&nbsp;This spring, Army veteran Hannah Ewert of Texas earned her associate degree from Barton Community College at Fort Leavenworth and is now ready to look toward her future.“I really want to work in law enforcement or corrections because while in the Army, my military operating specialty (MOS) was a corrections specialist, so it is easy to continue on that path, but I also have the desire to work as an addiction counselor because I have seen firsthand the effects that drugs have on people so I would like to help others,” she said.Ewert said Barton’s ability to accommodate her schedule as part of a military family made it possible for her to work on her education and continue to care for her children.&nbsp;“I love how Barton offers online and Zoom classes because my kids are still young, and when they are out of school, I am still able to take classes,” she said.Ewert took advantage of Barton’s LSEC classes which are available to active-duty soldiers and their dependents as well as any Department of Defense employees on base. Her experience in the military was also helpful in achieving her goal of graduating because time served can equal credit hours towards a degree as well.“With my military transcript, I only had to take certain required classes within my field of study because a lot of my electives were completed through my military experience,” she said.Ewert plans to take a break from education to focus on her family but said her experience at Barton energized her desire to learn.“Barton has been great, and the instructors are very encouraging and make the learning experience so enjoyable,” she said.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fl.bartonccc.edu/">FL.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;for more information about Barton’s many programs and services to the public, soldiers, and their families.

Army veteran graduates from Barton Community College

The Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office showed off their newest piece of
equipment this week with a night vision monocular. Sheriff Scott King said the
night vision scope will be helpful with locating subjects in any future incidents. 
"Anything when we start dealing with, not just the state hospital and Department of Corrections escapes, but if someone were to get lost at night," said King. "We could bring it out even at an accident scene if we thought somebody walked away from scene. Or maybe somebody was ejected and we had to go around to make sure everybody was safe." 
Through the United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association (USDSA) there is a
platform where people throughout the country can donate funds for equipment.
The 501(c)(3) national non-profit organization supports law enforcement with
equipment, training and citizen awareness programs. "USDSA does a lot for law enforcement throughout the nation," said King. 
The handheld scope will be kept at Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office and will be
available for deputies to check out when needed.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691081580749.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostThe Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office showed off their newest piece of
equipment this week with a night vision monocular. Sheriff Scott King said the
night vision scope will be helpful with locating subjects in any future incidents. 
"Anything when we start dealing with, not just the state hospital and Department of Corrections escapes, but if someone were to get lost at night," said King. "We could bring it out even at an accident scene if we thought somebody walked away from scene. Or maybe somebody was ejected and we had to go around to make sure everybody was safe." 
Through the United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association (USDSA) there is a
platform where people throughout the country can donate funds for equipment.
The 501(c)(3) national non-profit organization supports law enforcement with
equipment, training and citizen awareness programs. "USDSA does a lot for law enforcement throughout the nation," said King. 
The handheld scope will be kept at Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office and will be
available for deputies to check out when needed.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pawnee Co. Sheriff’s Office supplied new night vision equipment

The Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC), an affiliated program of the Kansas Chamber, is looking for the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3f6i-8VDr2Xu8GH4og4HvYXe_9aYlHJaR_wsxtGMifqjdFTzUkqFNJvlp3gVMGAcpYY2qfKmTOGLRUj01Yv_u0cRJebGN87STg==&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>. Presented by&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3agS4I45P7Q_1NYmp1Krly2vvHs0XBVyLq5m_yCK--qaWxEMwLklkQTTlYft-1dyZ7UdZNwhGQH7MOe7mEAMI1D5BWwhPtL-kQ==&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">FORVIS</a>, KMC launched this competition in 2020 to promote and elevate Kansas manufacturers and to highlight products developed and produced in Kansas and distributed across the U.S. and internationally.

“The Kansas Manufacturing Council’s annual contest showcases Kansas’s wide variety of manufacturers that keep our state’s economy strong and our communities growing. It’s with great pride that KMC supports manufacturing technology and integration to embrace the future,” said Brandie McPherson, KMC Executive Director.

Any product that is made in Kansas qualifies for the competition. There are two categories in this year's competition: People's Choice and Coolest Innovation. The People’s Choice contest begins with product nominations and the popular vote round. The top 16 vote-getters will move on to a bracket-style tournament where they will compete in head-to-head match-ups. The ones that receive the most votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the People’s Choice - Coolest Thing Made in Kansas.

The Coolest Innovation contest highlights the many ways Kansas manufacturers research and develop new products and work to improve products to address crucial challenges.

A panel of expert judges will review and score questionnaires completed by the companies regarding their nominated products. The top four scoring products will be invited to present in-person to the expert panel on October 23rd at the&nbsp;Coolest Celebration Reception. The judges will choose the winning product&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNa9AwPm1v7oVofpQVabCpSG0QPPjYXjlCMTojgLlpSbSpMk2cKvJbprJQuf4DbbOWL-S_yDwIfQ9j9drz9cvL5tkrROh27uqkCPx1veugGzd7R4dg5tTtTYiXp2KG3r-hRf6KSzB6hWiX_anjDbFJw7RUG4TztDxXwIdvr3ec73_4=&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">based on a criteria&nbsp;</a>that includes its impact on the challenge it solves as well as the business, its employees, and customers.

Winners for both categories will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3Yn05dZhlCIZQ33ze_EQWEyvSHxCYxcN8PjUG_zh2TiSaPWz6E87e1JiYZfGKRTZXA2WwZYvBCeIFDRHQk4Sb9QTgwyE7054W59WpXDtXx1winnMvUkLozFFvyVHKfCX2Qwmej84YbLG-g2dcNLwyJhuKxT2nCJxX3eq3LTPmC7A&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita.

"FORVIS is fortunate to have the opportunity to work and engage with manufacturers across Kansas and is able to see first-hand the research, development and ultimate success of innovative products," said Matt Cash, FORVIS Commercial Products Industry Partner. "We are excited to sponsor this competition and provide manufacturers a platform to showcase their products and promote the entrepreneurial spirit of Kansas manufacturers and the solutions they are bringing to the market." <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNaHhDcdC1ivY_jpu23pj9vTjIAR5VOihW0ZvEARkv245oEiYcx2vqFPeQmJUbJ2eQMszI5qQdYW_BsUgqPVZ_aWnT4M6-eg824NR5aSmOCYrYeK83ZWUG2LxKLSxLqc1MFFi5Z0TxlElkRw3cdOgt0W5sT9hxY23WT&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank"></a>

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNaHhDcdC1ivY_jpu23pj9vTjIAR5VOihW0ZvEARkv245oEiYcx2vqFPeQmJUbJ2eQMszI5qQdYW_BsUgqPVZ_aWnT4M6-eg824NR5aSmOCYrYeK83ZWUG2LxKLSxLqc1MFFi5Z0TxlElkRw3cdOgt0W5sT9hxY23WT&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to nominate your favorite Kansas-made product. Nominations for the 2023 contest close on August 30th at midnight CT.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690992611279.jpeg" alt="2022 People's Choice Winner - Ernest Spencer Metals" />
 <figcaption>2022 People's Choice Winner - Ernest Spencer Metals</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC), an affiliated program of the Kansas Chamber, is looking for the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3f6i-8VDr2Xu8GH4og4HvYXe_9aYlHJaR_wsxtGMifqjdFTzUkqFNJvlp3gVMGAcpYY2qfKmTOGLRUj01Yv_u0cRJebGN87STg==&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>. Presented by&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3agS4I45P7Q_1NYmp1Krly2vvHs0XBVyLq5m_yCK--qaWxEMwLklkQTTlYft-1dyZ7UdZNwhGQH7MOe7mEAMI1D5BWwhPtL-kQ==&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">FORVIS</a>, KMC launched this competition in 2020 to promote and elevate Kansas manufacturers and to highlight products developed and produced in Kansas and distributed across the U.S. and internationally. “The Kansas Manufacturing Council’s annual contest showcases Kansas’s wide variety of manufacturers that keep our state’s economy strong and our communities growing. It’s with great pride that KMC supports manufacturing technology and integration to embrace the future,” said Brandie McPherson, KMC Executive Director. Any product that is made in Kansas qualifies for the competition. There are two categories in this year's competition: People's Choice and Coolest Innovation. The People’s Choice contest begins with product nominations and the popular vote round. The top 16 vote-getters will move on to a bracket-style tournament where they will compete in head-to-head match-ups. The ones that receive the most votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the People’s Choice - Coolest Thing Made in Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690992671087.jpeg" alt="2022 Coolest Innovation Winner - Lee Aerospace" />
 <figcaption>2022 Coolest Innovation Winner - Lee Aerospace</figcaption>
 </figure>The Coolest Innovation contest highlights the many ways Kansas manufacturers research and develop new products and work to improve products to address crucial challenges. A panel of expert judges will review and score questionnaires completed by the companies regarding their nominated products. The top four scoring products will be invited to present in-person to the expert panel on October 23rd at the&nbsp;Coolest Celebration Reception. The judges will choose the winning product&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNa9AwPm1v7oVofpQVabCpSG0QPPjYXjlCMTojgLlpSbSpMk2cKvJbprJQuf4DbbOWL-S_yDwIfQ9j9drz9cvL5tkrROh27uqkCPx1veugGzd7R4dg5tTtTYiXp2KG3r-hRf6KSzB6hWiX_anjDbFJw7RUG4TztDxXwIdvr3ec73_4=&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">based on a criteria&nbsp;</a>that includes its impact on the challenge it solves as well as the business, its employees, and customers. Winners for both categories will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3Yn05dZhlCIZQ33ze_EQWEyvSHxCYxcN8PjUG_zh2TiSaPWz6E87e1JiYZfGKRTZXA2WwZYvBCeIFDRHQk4Sb9QTgwyE7054W59WpXDtXx1winnMvUkLozFFvyVHKfCX2Qwmej84YbLG-g2dcNLwyJhuKxT2nCJxX3eq3LTPmC7A&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita. "FORVIS is fortunate to have the opportunity to work and engage with manufacturers across Kansas and is able to see first-hand the research, development and ultimate success of innovative products," said Matt Cash, FORVIS Commercial Products Industry Partner. "We are excited to sponsor this competition and provide manufacturers a platform to showcase their products and promote the entrepreneurial spirit of Kansas manufacturers and the solutions they are bringing to the market." <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNaHhDcdC1ivY_jpu23pj9vTjIAR5VOihW0ZvEARkv245oEiYcx2vqFPeQmJUbJ2eQMszI5qQdYW_BsUgqPVZ_aWnT4M6-eg824NR5aSmOCYrYeK83ZWUG2LxKLSxLqc1MFFi5Z0TxlElkRw3cdOgt0W5sT9hxY23WT&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNaHhDcdC1ivY_jpu23pj9vTjIAR5VOihW0ZvEARkv245oEiYcx2vqFPeQmJUbJ2eQMszI5qQdYW_BsUgqPVZ_aWnT4M6-eg824NR5aSmOCYrYeK83ZWUG2LxKLSxLqc1MFFi5Z0TxlElkRw3cdOgt0W5sT9hxY23WT&amp;c=LAHXx7M_WdVuELlX3kgn82mV6jLgxksNHTqBnSSdmDdx4lPZLL1xxg==&amp;ch=vtFbmksWvN74Ta1hKs2wMXmIG22YgLuw1LUvs7hMpWxgjkOANCHHlA==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to nominate your favorite Kansas-made product. Nominations for the 2023 contest close on August 30th at midnight CT.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nominations open for 2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas

In June, the Great Bend City Council approved an ordinance that
addressed the issue when a councilmember or mayor does not attend meetings. The
ordinance states if an elected official fails to attend four consecutive
regular meetings, without an excuse accepted by the governing body, the person
will be deemed as resigning. 
Brock McPherson, 4th Ward councilmember, has missed the past 15
meetings. Dec. 5, 2022 was the last meeting McPherson
attended. 
The city council will be presented a motion Monday, Aug. 7 to declare the position
vacant and begin the process of finding a suitable appointment to fill the
vacancy. The council meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. 
The vacancy will be filled by an elector from Ward 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642618848779.jpeg" alt="The Great Bend City Council will begin the process of filling a 4th Ward seat on the board. Councilmember Brock McPherson last attended a meeting in December 2022." />
 <figcaption>The Great Bend City Council will begin the process of filling a 4th Ward seat on the board. Councilmember Brock McPherson last attended a meeting in December 2022.</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostIn June, the Great Bend City Council approved an ordinance that
addressed the issue when a councilmember or mayor does not attend meetings. The
ordinance states if an elected official fails to attend four consecutive
regular meetings, without an excuse accepted by the governing body, the person
will be deemed as resigning. 
Brock McPherson, 4th Ward councilmember, has missed the past 15
meetings. Dec. 5, 2022 was the last meeting McPherson
attended. 
The city council will be presented a motion Monday, Aug. 7 to declare the position
vacant and begin the process of finding a suitable appointment to fill the
vacancy. The council meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. 
The vacancy will be filled by an elector from Ward 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend to fill council seat that’s been vacant since 2022

Regardless of Tuesday's Primary Election vote in Ellsworth, Barton, and Rice counties, the students that made up the Wilson High School Class of 2024 were headed elsewhere. The USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education voted to close the school at the close of the 2023 school year, and WHS supporters thought disorganization of the district was the only way to keep the school open. With that option decided by Tuesday's vote, Wilson High School Future Committee Member Michael Kratky said former WHS students now have the choice to leave the district's other option of Central Plains High School.

"It's too far away and the animosity that was created, they're not going there," he said. "Some are going to Ellsworth, some are going to Russell, and some are going to Sylvan, so they're split three ways. A single class in Wilson may be in three schools next year."

The Wilson High Alumni met in May and determined that former Wilson students who were set to graduate from the high school prior to its closing, will still be honored as WHS alumni.

"Most of the kids started in kindergarten here, if not preschool, " Kratky said. "The hardest thing is if they're a junior here, they won't graduate together and they won't graduate in the school they hoped to graduate from and they originally thought."

Unofficial results from Ellsworth County showed 67 percent of votes in USD 112 voted against disorganization, which would have put the district's fate into the hands of the state board of education. In Barton County, 643 patrons voted against disorganization compared to 17 patrons for. 

"We probably would have been surprised if it had passed," said Kratky. "We had anticipation, but it doesn't change anything for the time being. We will continue to look at ways to leave the district."

The WHS future committee plans to continue looking for ways to keep the high school open, and members plan to continue advocating for small schools before the state legislature in Topeka.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689420894228.png" alt=" A sign placed in a Wilson gas station tells residents to “vote yes” on the Aug. 1, 2023, petition to disorganize. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> A sign placed in a Wilson gas station tells residents to “vote yes” on the Aug. 1, 2023, petition to disorganize. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostRegardless of Tuesday's Primary Election vote in Ellsworth, Barton, and Rice counties, the students that made up the Wilson High School Class of 2024 were headed elsewhere. The USD 112 Central Plains Board of Education voted to close the school at the close of the 2023 school year, and WHS supporters thought disorganization of the district was the only way to keep the school open. With that option decided by Tuesday's vote, Wilson High School Future Committee Member Michael Kratky said former WHS students now have the choice to leave the district's other option of Central Plains High School."It's too far away and the animosity that was created, they're not going there," he said. "Some are going to Ellsworth, some are going to Russell, and some are going to Sylvan, so they're split three ways. A single class in Wilson may be in three schools next year."The Wilson High Alumni met in May and determined that former Wilson students who were set to graduate from the high school prior to its closing, will still be honored as WHS alumni."Most of the kids started in kindergarten here, if not preschool, " Kratky said. "The hardest thing is if they're a junior here, they won't graduate together and they won't graduate in the school they hoped to graduate from and they originally thought."Unofficial results from Ellsworth County showed 67 percent of votes in USD 112 voted against disorganization, which would have put the district's fate into the hands of the state board of education. In Barton County, 643 patrons voted against disorganization compared to 17 patrons for. "We probably would have been surprised if it had passed," said Kratky. "We had anticipation, but it doesn't change anything for the time being. We will continue to look at ways to leave the district."The WHS future committee plans to continue looking for ways to keep the high school open, and members plan to continue advocating for small schools before the state legislature in Topeka.

Wilson contention still searching for options after Tuesday's primary

In Kansas, the 4-H year runs from October 1 to September 30. Project learning begins early in the 4-H year as youth begin learning about Foods and Nutrition, begin the next level of their Entomology collection, or begin thinking about their livestock for the coming year.

Several opportunities to showcase that project learning occur throughout the year. 4-H Club Days are a chance to practice communication skills and are one of the first events for youth to share about an area of interest as this occurs in February and March. County fair is about three-fourths of the way through the year and advanced learning is showcased with feedback from judges as an important part of the process.

Two of the big pieces of the 4-H year occur in September! Many 4-H members can qualify for participation at the Kansas State Fair by receiving a top placing at the county fair. We don’t have consultative judging at this level but it is an incredible opportunity for those youth to see their project exhibit displayed and evaluated with 4-H members from across the state! We have 57 4-H members who have qualified to take one or more entries to the Kansas State fair and that doesn’t include any animals! When I was a 4-H member, we lived too far from the State Fair to see my exhibits on display so I encourage all of our 4-H members and their friends and family to make a trip and be sure it includes some time in Centennial Hall!

The other very important part of project learning that is in the works right now are the completion of Project Record books! While few of us love record-keeping, it is an important life skill and the Kansas 4-H Project Record provides steps for youth to learn and improve in this process. The youngest 4-H members complete sentences with plenty of direction to learn the basics of record-keeping. As they get a little older, the intermediate version includes less specifics but still guidance on how to complete financial records, note project learning opportunities, and examples of project-related community service. For our senior 4-H members, this also includes a cover letter, a resume related to their project learning, and if it qualifies for competition at the state level, a video presentation. All of these are important skills for our youth to learn and wrap up a year of project learning.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>In Kansas, the 4-H year runs from October 1 to September 30. Project learning begins early in the 4-H year as youth begin learning about Foods and Nutrition, begin the next level of their Entomology collection, or begin thinking about their livestock for the coming year.Several opportunities to showcase that project learning occur throughout the year. 4-H Club Days are a chance to practice communication skills and are one of the first events for youth to share about an area of interest as this occurs in February and March. County fair is about three-fourths of the way through the year and advanced learning is showcased with feedback from judges as an important part of the process.Two of the big pieces of the 4-H year occur in September! Many 4-H members can qualify for participation at the Kansas State Fair by receiving a top placing at the county fair. We don’t have consultative judging at this level but it is an incredible opportunity for those youth to see their project exhibit displayed and evaluated with 4-H members from across the state! We have 57 4-H members who have qualified to take one or more entries to the Kansas State fair and that doesn’t include any animals! When I was a 4-H member, we lived too far from the State Fair to see my exhibits on display so I encourage all of our 4-H members and their friends and family to make a trip and be sure it includes some time in Centennial Hall!The other very important part of project learning that is in the works right now are the completion of Project Record books! While few of us love record-keeping, it is an important life skill and the Kansas 4-H Project Record provides steps for youth to learn and improve in this process. The youngest 4-H members complete sentences with plenty of direction to learn the basics of record-keeping. As they get a little older, the intermediate version includes less specifics but still guidance on how to complete financial records, note project learning opportunities, and examples of project-related community service. For our senior 4-H members, this also includes a cover letter, a resume related to their project learning, and if it qualifies for competition at the state level, a video presentation. All of these are important skills for our youth to learn and wrap up a year of project learning.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

BERAN: Kansas State Fair bound

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The City of Hoisington announced Tuesday that there were a couple of
days this week where the public pool was not able to accommodate all of the patrons
wanting to come to the pool. A staffing shortage, with limited lifeguards,
caused staff to turn people away to ensure that the patron to guard ratio was
adequate. 

Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell said the city has a full
roster of lifeguards, but a few of them had challenges making it into
work. "We are dealing with young people who are active and involved with a lot of things," said Mitchell. "There have been days when people just get too warm or they have sports meetings which can create coverage problems. We just wanted to educate the community and for them not to be frustrated if they went there and were turned away." 
Mitchell said the hope is to remain fully staffed the rest of the pool season.
The pool is required to have one lifeguard for every 25 patrons. This summer, Hoisington
has 15 lifeguards on staff, but Mitchell said they are always looking
for more. 
"This also helps put the word out in the future that we would love to talk to anyone interested in being a lifeguard," said Mitchell. "We would love to get them started in the process for next year. The bigger your roster, the stronger your team." 
The final day the Hoisington pool will be open is Aug. 13.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657032187691.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City of Hoisington announced Tuesday that there were a couple of
days this week where the public pool was not able to accommodate all of the patrons
wanting to come to the pool. A staffing shortage, with limited lifeguards,
caused staff to turn people away to ensure that the patron to guard ratio was
adequate. Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell said the city has a full
roster of lifeguards, but a few of them had challenges making it into
work. "We are dealing with young people who are active and involved with a lot of things," said Mitchell. "There have been days when people just get too warm or they have sports meetings which can create coverage problems. We just wanted to educate the community and for them not to be frustrated if they went there and were turned away." 
Mitchell said the hope is to remain fully staffed the rest of the pool season.
The pool is required to have one lifeguard for every 25 patrons. This summer, Hoisington
has 15 lifeguards on staff, but Mitchell said they are always looking
for more. 
"This also helps put the word out in the future that we would love to talk to anyone interested in being a lifeguard," said Mitchell. "We would love to get them started in the process for next year. The bigger your roster, the stronger your team." 
The final day the Hoisington pool will be open is Aug. 13.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Keeping it safe: Lifeguard shortage limited Hoisington pool access

PRATT—Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at Woody's Sports Bar and Grill at 418 S. Main Street in Pratt.

Fire crews responded at 11:31 p.m. Thursday, according to a social media post from the Pratt Fire Department. The business a total loss.

Pratt Fire thanked the many assisting departments for their help. There were no injuries reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691160015260.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT—Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at Woody's Sports Bar and Grill at 418 S. Main Street in Pratt.Fire crews responded at 11:31 p.m. Thursday, according to a social media post from the Pratt Fire Department. The business a total loss.Pratt Fire thanked the many assisting departments for their help. There were no injuries reported.

Pratt sports bar, grill destroyed in fire

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/3) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:02 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NW 50 Avenue &amp; W. Barton
County. 
 
Convulsions / Seizures 
 
At 10:58 a.m. a report of convulsions/seizures were reported at 1385 Kinzel
Street in Odin. 
 
Injury Accident 
 
At 11:36 a.m. an accident was reported at NE 30 Road &amp; N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:17 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 592 NE K-156 Highway. 
 
At 5:54 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156 Highway &amp; NE 110
Avenue. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (8/3) 
 
Missing Person / Runaway 
 
At 1:50 a.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 2502 31st
Street. 
 
Hemorrhage / Lacerations 
 
At 4:25 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2812 Paseo Dr. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 11:02 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 97 SW 5 Avenue. 
 
At 12:02 p.m. an accident was reported at 1612 Main Street. 
 
Locate Runaway / Missing 
 
At 12:59 p.m. a report of locating a missing person was made at 2502 31st
Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 4:11 p.m. a subject with an expired tax and no driver’s license was reported
at 1401 Cherry Ln. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 5:03 p.m. an accident was reported at 811 Grant. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:35 p.m. a subject without a driver’s license was reported at 1401 Cherry
Ln. 
 
At 5:54 p.m. the BTSO located the vehicle at NE K-156 &amp; NE 110 Avenue. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 6:23 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2913 25th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 6:42 p.m. a subject taking items from the store was reported at 3503 10th
Street. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 7:04 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2017 Jackson Street. 
 
Back Pain 
 
At 11:38 p.m. a report of back pain was made at 6000 Broaway. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 11:47 p.m. an accident was reported at 3703 10th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/3) 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 9:02 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NW 50 Avenue &amp; W. Barton
County. 
 
Convulsions / Seizures 
 
At 10:58 a.m. a report of convulsions/seizures were reported at 1385 Kinzel
Street in Odin. 
 
Injury Accident 
 
At 11:36 a.m. an accident was reported at NE 30 Road &amp; N. US 281 Highway. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:17 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 592 NE K-156 Highway. 
 
At 5:54 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156 Highway &amp; NE 110
Avenue. 
 
Great Bend Police Department incident
log (8/3) 
 
Missing Person / Runaway 
 
At 1:50 a.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 2502 31st
Street. 
 
Hemorrhage / Lacerations 
 
At 4:25 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2812 Paseo Dr. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 11:02 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 97 SW 5 Avenue. 
 
At 12:02 p.m. an accident was reported at 1612 Main Street. 
 
Locate Runaway / Missing 
 
At 12:59 p.m. a report of locating a missing person was made at 2502 31st
Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 4:11 p.m. a subject with an expired tax and no driver’s license was reported
at 1401 Cherry Ln. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 5:03 p.m. an accident was reported at 811 Grant. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 5:35 p.m. a subject without a driver’s license was reported at 1401 Cherry
Ln. 
 
At 5:54 p.m. the BTSO located the vehicle at NE K-156 &amp; NE 110 Avenue. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 6:23 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2913 25th Street. 
 
Theft 
 
At 6:42 p.m. a subject taking items from the store was reported at 3503 10th
Street. 
 
Unconscious / Fainting 
 
At 7:04 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2017 Jackson Street. 
 
Back Pain 
 
At 11:38 p.m. a report of back pain was made at 6000 Broaway. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 11:47 p.m. an accident was reported at 3703 10th Street.

Cop Shop (8/3)

8/3 BOOKED: Adyn Haines on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage and Minor in Consumption, bond set at $500 C/S or 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: Adyn Haines on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage and Minor in Consumption, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Bryanne Biggs-Zamarripa on Labette County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, to Labette County.

RELEASED: Gavin Allen on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Cameron Randol on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Battery, on $75,000 OR bond granted by court.

RELEASED: James Raab on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8/3 BOOKED: Adyn Haines on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage and Minor in Consumption, bond set at $500 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Adyn Haines on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage and Minor in Consumption, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Bryanne Biggs-Zamarripa on Labette County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, to Labette County.RELEASED: Gavin Allen on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Cameron Randol on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Battery, on $75,000 OR bond granted by court.RELEASED: James Raab on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (8/3)

Statistics exist on the chances of being struck by lightning in your
lifetime. While the chances of a house or building be struck would reasonably
be higher, you would still be left in disbelief if your city home was hit.
That is the state of mind that Angelina and David Morgan are in now after their
Ellinwood home was struck by lightning late Wednesday, Aug. 2. 

Lightning struck
the top of the house and a fire started in the attic. Ashlie Thomas, a daughter
of the homeowners, said the incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. 
“My parents heard the thunder but imagined it was a couple blocks away,” said
Thomas. “About 10 minutes later, they heard this faint beeping. They went to
look and found out it was the smoke detector going off upstairs.” 
David Morgan found the entire upstairs engulfed with smoke and called 9-1-1. The
couple was able to get themselves out of the house, their dog and a small “emergency
bag” of belongings. Thomas said it could have been much worse. 
“Thankfully, by the grace of God, my 18-year-old sister’s room is right where
the lightning struck, but she happened to not be there that evening,” said
Thomas. “It would probably have been a way different story if she was.
She probably wouldn’t be here today if she was up in her room when it struck.”

The fire and smoke was mostly contained in the attic area, but because of the
amount of water used with hot spots reappearing because of the electrical fire,
the ceiling has been damaged causing water to fall throughout the house. 
“The water from the hoses have made the house like a rain forest,” said Thomas.
“It’s seeping down into the next level of the home. It’s dripping everywhere.
There are just puddles. It’s going from the top to the bottom at this point.” 
An insurance agent examined the house on West 4th Street in
Ellinwood, and Thomas said an adjuster will view the damage Friday. The house
was built in 1887, and Thomas’ parents have spent the past decade renovating
and modernizing the house. 
“It was amazing to see what they did to that house over the years,” said Thomas.
“I think it’s going to be a total loss with all the damage from top to bottom. To
see all of their hard work go out the window is heartbreaking." 
A <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/lightning-destroyed-their-home?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet-first-launch&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=facebook">GoFundMe page</a> was created to help the Morgans while they are displaced from
their home. 
“We’re very thankful and do feel God’s hand in all of this,” said Thomas. “He
was involved in my sister being in the right place and that my parents weren’t
hurt. The majority of all their belongings are destroyed, but you can never get
lives back. We’re thankful we still have each other.”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691099968930.jpeg" alt="Picture from the damage inside an Ellinwood home following a lightning strike on Aug. 2, 2023." />
 <figcaption>Picture from the damage inside an Ellinwood home following a lightning strike on Aug. 2, 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostStatistics exist on the chances of being struck by lightning in your
lifetime. While the chances of a house or building be struck would reasonably
be higher, you would still be left in disbelief if your city home was hit.
That is the state of mind that Angelina and David Morgan are in now after their
Ellinwood home was struck by lightning late Wednesday, Aug. 2. Lightning struck
the top of the house and a fire started in the attic. Ashlie Thomas, a daughter
of the homeowners, said the incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. 
“My parents heard the thunder but imagined it was a couple blocks away,” said
Thomas. “About 10 minutes later, they heard this faint beeping. They went to
look and found out it was the smoke detector going off upstairs.” 
David Morgan found the entire upstairs engulfed with smoke and called 9-1-1. The
couple was able to get themselves out of the house, their dog and a small “emergency
bag” of belongings. Thomas said it could have been much worse. 
“Thankfully, by the grace of God, my 18-year-old sister’s room is right where
the lightning struck, but she happened to not be there that evening,” said
Thomas. “It would probably have been a way different story if she was.
She probably wouldn’t be here today if she was up in her room when it struck.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691100041942.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The fire and smoke was mostly contained in the attic area, but because of the
amount of water used with hot spots reappearing because of the electrical fire,
the ceiling has been damaged causing water to fall throughout the house. 
“The water from the hoses have made the house like a rain forest,” said Thomas.
“It’s seeping down into the next level of the home. It’s dripping everywhere.
There are just puddles. It’s going from the top to the bottom at this point.” 
An insurance agent examined the house on West 4th Street in
Ellinwood, and Thomas said an adjuster will view the damage Friday. The house
was built in 1887, and Thomas’ parents have spent the past decade renovating
and modernizing the house. 
“It was amazing to see what they did to that house over the years,” said Thomas.
“I think it’s going to be a total loss with all the damage from top to bottom. To
see all of their hard work go out the window is heartbreaking." 
A <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/lightning-destroyed-their-home?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet-first-launch&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=facebook">GoFundMe page</a> was created to help the Morgans while they are displaced from
their home. 
“We’re very thankful and do feel God’s hand in all of this,” said Thomas. “He
was involved in my sister being in the right place and that my parents weren’t
hurt. The majority of all their belongings are destroyed, but you can never get
lives back. We’re thankful we still have each other.”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellinwood family recovering after house was struck by lightning

Today A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 a.m. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 92. North wind 9 to 14 mph becoming east-northeast in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.

Tonight A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 69. East-northeast wind 8 to 11 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.

Saturday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Northeast wind 8 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast in the afternoon.

Saturday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely before 10 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 65. South-southeast wind 10 to 14 mph becoming northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 86. Northwest wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Monday A slight chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Monday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Tuesday A 20-percent chance of showers before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87.

Tuesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 66.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94.

Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 a.m. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 92. North wind 9 to 14 mph becoming east-northeast in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.Tonight A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 69. East-northeast wind 8 to 11 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.Saturday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Northeast wind 8 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast in the afternoon.Saturday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely before 10 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 65. South-southeast wind 10 to 14 mph becoming northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 86. Northwest wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.Monday A slight chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Monday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.Tuesday A 20-percent chance of showers before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87.Tuesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 66.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94.Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 65.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

The thousands of moths that moved through Central Kansas earlier this year may have been more than just pests and bear food. Scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) are now asking the public in six states, including Kansas, to mail in deceased butterflies, moths, and skippers as part of a pilot study to help them identify contaminants and environmental factors that may be contributing to the decline of insect populations.

"Each of the laboratories in USGS has a different capability," said USGS Scientist-in-Charge Julie Dietze. "The work my colleagues and I have started here in Lawrence is related to pesticides, antibiotics, getting a baseline for hormones, and whether or not environmental contaminants are having a negative impact on their functionality."

Other states included in the study are Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Alabama, and Georgia. The insects must already be dead, and must be at least two inches in size to ensure scientists have enough sample to work with. The specimens should be placed in a resealable plastic bag and mailed without a return address. Not including personal information allows the USGS to work around the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, and scientists will use postmarks to determine locations.

"Having those latitudes and longitudes of those postmark facilities will be sufficient for what we're doing," Dietze said. "Butterflies and moths are flying around, so it's not like a body of water, per se, where you need an exact location. Hopefully, if the pilot is successful, we would go through the Paperwork Reduction Act and add additional states, and be able to have that option for people to say who sent it."

Specimens can be mailed to USGS LRC, 1217 Biltmore Dr., Lawrence, KS  66049. The deadline is Nov. 1, 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682296991885.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe thousands of moths that moved through Central Kansas earlier this year may have been more than just pests and bear food. Scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) are now asking the public in six states, including Kansas, to mail in deceased butterflies, moths, and skippers as part of a pilot study to help them identify contaminants and environmental factors that may be contributing to the decline of insect populations."Each of the laboratories in USGS has a different capability," said USGS Scientist-in-Charge Julie Dietze. "The work my colleagues and I have started here in Lawrence is related to pesticides, antibiotics, getting a baseline for hormones, and whether or not environmental contaminants are having a negative impact on their functionality."Other states included in the study are Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Alabama, and Georgia. The insects must already be dead, and must be at least two inches in size to ensure scientists have enough sample to work with. The specimens should be placed in a resealable plastic bag and mailed without a return address. Not including personal information allows the USGS to work around the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, and scientists will use postmarks to determine locations."Having those latitudes and longitudes of those postmark facilities will be sufficient for what we're doing," Dietze said. "Butterflies and moths are flying around, so it's not like a body of water, per se, where you need an exact location. Hopefully, if the pilot is successful, we would go through the Paperwork Reduction Act and add additional states, and be able to have that option for people to say who sent it."Specimens can be mailed to USGS LRC, 1217 Biltmore Dr., Lawrence, KS 66049. The deadline is Nov. 1, 2023.

USGS wants dead butterflies, moths from Central Kansas

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns that aired Aug. 2, 2023.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns that aired Aug. 2, 2023.<div><iframe title="City Edition - Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns" 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=m8zsr-146df11-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 Assist. Administrator Burns

Pictured is the vandalism found in the Preisker Park splash pad bathroom this morning. Unfortunately, this is the second incidence of vandalism in just a short few days. If this continues to happen, the splash pad bathrooms will have to be closed. 

Please be respectful of public property, as incidents such as this one may cause a major inconvenience for others who use it. Thanks!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691088288179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Ellsworth...Pictured is the vandalism found in the Preisker Park splash pad bathroom this morning. Unfortunately, this is the second incidence of vandalism in just a short few days. If this continues to happen, the splash pad bathrooms will have to be closed. Please be respectful of public property, as incidents such as this one may cause a major inconvenience for others who use it. Thanks!

Ellsworth reports more public bathroom vandalism

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;is pleased to announce the recipients of the solid waste reduction grants.&nbsp;Grants totaled $333,037.56 and were awarded to 14 different cities, counties and organizations.

The solid waste tire reduction grant is used to support projects related to the development and operation of recycling, source reduction, waste minimization and solid waste management public education programs. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the solid waste tonnage fee; a $1.00/per ton of solid waste disposed at any solid waste disposal area in the state.

“These grants will help cover the costs of proper disposal of many materials including scrap tires and assist local efforts to promote litter and waste reduction,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Secretary Janet Stanek. “KDHE applauds the creativity and innovation of our communities in reusing materials that help protect the health and environment of all Kansans.”

The Solid Waste Reduction Grants and the communities they will serve include:

Learn more about the proposed projects at,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzcwMC9XYXN0ZS1SZWR1Y3Rpb24tUHVibGljLUVkdWNhdGlvbi1HcmFudHM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgwMi44MDU1MTY3MSJ9.5mWH-ibjOa83KOsOwta0aSMJmPwIee2te0Gl3WCawng/s/1305943094/br/223592608588-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/700/</a>.&nbsp;

A list of the awards is available&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvMzAwODUvUm91bmQtNS0tLVN0YXRlLUZpc2NhbC1ZZWFyLTIwMjQtU29saWQtV2FzdGUtR3JhbnRzLUF3YXJkZWVzLVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODAyLjgwNTUxNjcxIn0.PgFIgqPzDvqfNZiOBatyqzb_UCZy-BCPmvVd6v8bFOU/s/1305943094/br/223592608588-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671465588176.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;is pleased to announce the recipients of the solid waste reduction grants.&nbsp;Grants totaled $333,037.56 and were awarded to 14 different cities, counties and organizations.The solid waste tire reduction grant is used to support projects related to the development and operation of recycling, source reduction, waste minimization and solid waste management public education programs. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the solid waste tonnage fee; a $1.00/per ton of solid waste disposed at any solid waste disposal area in the state.“These grants will help cover the costs of proper disposal of many materials including scrap tires and assist local efforts to promote litter and waste reduction,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Secretary Janet Stanek. “KDHE applauds the creativity and innovation of our communities in reusing materials that help protect the health and environment of all Kansans.”The Solid Waste Reduction Grants and the communities they will serve include:<ul>
 <li>City of Abilene, Dickinson - $46,516.00</li><li>City of Leavenworth, Leavenworth - $7,500.00</li><li>City of Lyndon, Osage - $32,174.21</li><li>Gove County Landfill, Gove - $14,031.00</li><li>Kansas Trophy Outfitters, Osage - $62,700.00</li><li>Lake Region Solid Waste Authority, Miami - $5,854.40</li><li>Lakemary Center, Miami - $27,172.00</li><li>Missouri Organic Recycling, Kansas City - $16,852.50 (this funding directly benefits Kansas residents)</li><li>Nemaha County, Nemaha - $12,003.00</li><li>Rawlins County Recycling, Rawlins - $20,355.75</li><li>Sheridan County, Sheridan - $15,738.75</li><li>Sunflower Diversified Services Inc., Barton - $23,254.72</li><li>Twin Valley Developmental Services Inc., Washington - $15,622.73</li><li>Washington County Environmental Sciences, Washington - $33,262.50</li>
 </ul>Learn more about the proposed projects at,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzcwMC9XYXN0ZS1SZWR1Y3Rpb24tUHVibGljLUVkdWNhdGlvbi1HcmFudHM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgwMi44MDU1MTY3MSJ9.5mWH-ibjOa83KOsOwta0aSMJmPwIee2te0Gl3WCawng/s/1305943094/br/223592608588-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/700/</a>.&nbsp;A list of the awards is available&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292L0RvY3VtZW50Q2VudGVyL1ZpZXcvMzAwODUvUm91bmQtNS0tLVN0YXRlLUZpc2NhbC1ZZWFyLTIwMjQtU29saWQtV2FzdGUtR3JhbnRzLUF3YXJkZWVzLVBERj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODAyLjgwNTUxNjcxIn0.PgFIgqPzDvqfNZiOBatyqzb_UCZy-BCPmvVd6v8bFOU/s/1305943094/br/223592608588-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Sunflower Diversified awarded grant for recycling efforts

With National Wellness Month coming up in August, Clara Barton Medical Center is taking the initiative to promote a simple yet effective way to improve overall health – walking! With no specialized equipment required, just a good pair of shoes, a little motivation, and a safe place to move, walking offers numerous health benefits. To encourage community members to adopt this healthy habit, Clara Barton Medical Center is inviting the public to participate in a 12-week walking program, from Aug. 6 through Oct. 28. This program will utilize the new walking trail located at their Great Bend clinic, at 906 McKinley.

According to the American Heart Association, dedicating 150 minutes per week to walking can help maintain good health. Recognizing the significance of this recommendation, Clara Barton Medical Center has partnered with several local businesses to amplify the benefits of walking. Throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to enter a weekly drawing to win a swag bag filled with goodies generously donated by business partners: Sonic, Coldwell Banker, Dillons, First Kansas Bank, Walmart, Pizza Hut, Everything Under the Son, The Reserves at Trail Ridge, and Kelly’s Garden Sense.

To participate, simply follow these steps:

1) Take a photo of yourself walking along the Clara Barton Walking Trail at 906 McKinley.

2) Share your photo on Facebook and tag @ClaraBartonMedicalCenter. Don’t have Facebook? No problem, you can also email your photo to kcrissman@cbhks.com to be entered to win.

Whether you are looking to kick-start your journey to a healthier lifestyle or wish to maintain your existing walking routine, Clara Barton Medical Center welcomes individuals of all ages and fitness levels to embrace this walking challenge. The Clara Barton Walking Trail is accessible to the public 24/7, and for every four laps completed, you'll have accomplished one mile toward your fitness goals.

As an added incentive, if 100 individuals participate, there will be a drawing for a $100 cash prize.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690923620537.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSWith National Wellness Month coming up in August, Clara Barton Medical Center is taking the initiative to promote a simple yet effective way to improve overall health – walking! With no specialized equipment required, just a good pair of shoes, a little motivation, and a safe place to move, walking offers numerous health benefits. To encourage community members to adopt this healthy habit, Clara Barton Medical Center is inviting the public to participate in a 12-week walking program, from Aug. 6 through Oct. 28. This program will utilize the new walking trail located at their Great Bend clinic, at 906 McKinley.According to the American Heart Association, dedicating 150 minutes per week to walking can help maintain good health. Recognizing the significance of this recommendation, Clara Barton Medical Center has partnered with several local businesses to amplify the benefits of walking. Throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to enter a weekly drawing to win a swag bag filled with goodies generously donated by business partners: Sonic, Coldwell Banker, Dillons, First Kansas Bank, Walmart, Pizza Hut, Everything Under the Son, The Reserves at Trail Ridge, and Kelly’s Garden Sense.To participate, simply follow these steps:1) Take a photo of yourself walking along the Clara Barton Walking Trail at 906 McKinley.2) Share your photo on Facebook and tag @ClaraBartonMedicalCenter. Don’t have Facebook? No problem, you can also email your photo to kcrissman@cbhks.com to be entered to win.Whether you are looking to kick-start your journey to a healthier lifestyle or wish to maintain your existing walking routine, Clara Barton Medical Center welcomes individuals of all ages and fitness levels to embrace this walking challenge. The Clara Barton Walking Trail is accessible to the public 24/7, and for every four laps completed, you'll have accomplished one mile toward your fitness goals.As an added incentive, if 100 individuals participate, there will be a drawing for a $100 cash prize.Join Clara Barton Medical Center this August for National Wellness Month and make walking a part of your daily routine. Lace up your shoes, hit the trail, and let's walk our way to better health together!For more information about the walking program and other wellness initiatives, please contact Karla Crissman at 620-653-2386.

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