By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Alfred Hitchcock, in 1963, horrified the masses with "The Birds," a film about unexplained, violent bird attacks over the course of a few days in California. While sparrows and crows are not so fear-inducing around Barton County, one bird does raise the hackles for many each summer. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said Mississippi kites, a small raptor, are back in cities like Great Bend.

"The problem with Mississippi kites people have is that they get very territorial when they have nests," he said. "Usually, about mid-summer, they're sitting on nests and this is the time we'll get calls, "I've got this bird that's dive-bombing me.'"

The kites barely go further north than central Kansas, but southcentral Kansas, western Oklahoma, and northern Texas are breeding grounds for the birds that grow 12-15 inches from tail to beak, and have an average wingspan of about three feet. Their tendency to use trees around homes and golf courses while nesting can lead to more interactions with humans. Feeding off insects, the birds can also be a spectacle of nature.

"They're a neat bird," Wolf said. "They love to feed off the big cicadas. Watching them hunt, they are incredible aerialists. When they're on the prowl for those things, they're really fun to watch."

After rearing their chicks, the kites follow the Atlantic coastline through Texas and Central America before spending the winter in central South America.

Experts say diving at pedestrians increases as incubation in nests progresses, but the aggressive behavior is found at only about 20 percent of nesting sites. Only a small percentage of dives - three percent in a study at one golf course - resulted in actual contact. The birds are fully protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which offers protection to the birds and their nests. Experts suggest avoiding nesting areas when possible, or waving their arms to minimize attacks from the diving birds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686270856779.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAlfred Hitchcock, in 1963, horrified the masses with "The Birds," a film about unexplained, violent bird attacks over the course of a few days in California. While sparrows and crows are not so fear-inducing around Barton County, one bird does raise the hackles for many each summer. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said Mississippi kites, a small raptor, are back in cities like Great Bend."The problem with Mississippi kites people have is that they get very territorial when they have nests," he said. "Usually, about mid-summer, they're sitting on nests and this is the time we'll get calls, "I've got this bird that's dive-bombing me.'"The kites barely go further north than central Kansas, but southcentral Kansas, western Oklahoma, and northern Texas are breeding grounds for the birds that grow 12-15 inches from tail to beak, and have an average wingspan of about three feet. Their tendency to use trees around homes and golf courses while nesting can lead to more interactions with humans. Feeding off insects, the birds can also be a spectacle of nature."They're a neat bird," Wolf said. "They love to feed off the big cicadas. Watching them hunt, they are incredible aerialists. When they're on the prowl for those things, they're really fun to watch."After rearing their chicks, the kites follow the Atlantic coastline through Texas and Central America before spending the winter in central South America.Experts say diving at pedestrians increases as incubation in nests progresses, but the aggressive behavior is found at only about 20 percent of nesting sites. Only a small percentage of dives - three percent in a study at one golf course - resulted in actual contact. The birds are fully protected under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which offers protection to the birds and their nests. Experts suggest avoiding nesting areas when possible, or waving their arms to minimize attacks from the diving birds.

Mississippi kites make annual return to Great Bend, other cities

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kayla Cullens and Roberta Myers to discuss the situation at Wilson schools&nbsp; USD 112 and the upcoming vote to disorganize the district.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2OW7zkj0BEM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kayla Cullens and Roberta Myers to discuss the situation at Wilson schools&nbsp; USD 112 and the upcoming vote to disorganize the district.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686337406551.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Forward Ever: USD 112 disorganization vote part 1

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The City of Great Bend received the first concept design for the installation
of a splash pad at Veterans Memorial Park. The splash pad is one of the major
projects the city is tackling to be funded from the .15% quality of life sales
tax. 

Interim City Administrator Logan Burns said the first design is in from
Athco, a playground equipment supplier based out of Lenexa, Kansas. "I'm looking at bringing the design back to the next council meeting to save some costs," said Burns. "We'll probably be bringing shade structures and benches back at a later date. As long as we can get the splash pad design going, that's what I'm really looking for." 
Last month, Burns stated the city hopes to have the feature constructed by May
2024. The splash pad will be located on the north side of Vets Park and is
expected to cost approximately $650,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677081469263.jpeg" alt="A rendering (NOT the design Great Bend has received) of a splash pad. Great Bend is moving forward with installing a similar feature at Veterans Memorial Park." />
 <figcaption>A rendering (NOT the design Great Bend has received) of a splash pad. Great Bend is moving forward with installing a similar feature at Veterans Memorial Park.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City of Great Bend received the first concept design for the installation
of a splash pad at Veterans Memorial Park. The splash pad is one of the major
projects the city is tackling to be funded from the .15% quality of life sales
tax. Interim City Administrator Logan Burns said the first design is in from
Athco, a playground equipment supplier based out of Lenexa, Kansas. "I'm looking at bringing the design back to the next council meeting to save some costs," said Burns. "We'll probably be bringing shade structures and benches back at a later date. As long as we can get the splash pad design going, that's what I'm really looking for." 
Last month, Burns stated the city hopes to have the feature constructed by May
2024. The splash pad will be located on the north side of Vets Park and is
expected to cost approximately $650,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend receives first design for new splash pad

Great Bend’s 2024 Connection City Link Improvement Program (CCLIP)
project was approved by the Kansas Department of Transportation. The project
will make improvements to Main Street, from the bridge to 2nd
Street. The plan will also make repairs to Patton Road, from 10th
Street to 9th Street. 

Great Bend Assistant City Engineer Hitha
Kadiyala said the next step is to sign the agreement with KDOT. "We received approval in October 2022," said Kadiyala. "As a second step, KDOT sent us an agreement. It states that 90% of the participation will by state funding. Then 10% will be the city's portion." 
The Great Bend City Council approved the motion to authorize the mayor to sign
the 2024 CCLIP agreement. Kadiyala said the project still needs to go out for
bids, and from there the city will know what their 10% portion of the project
will be.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686150539306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostGreat Bend’s 2024 Connection City Link Improvement Program (CCLIP)
project was approved by the Kansas Department of Transportation. The project
will make improvements to Main Street, from the bridge to 2nd
Street. The plan will also make repairs to Patton Road, from 10th
Street to 9th Street. Great Bend Assistant City Engineer Hitha
Kadiyala said the next step is to sign the agreement with KDOT. "We received approval in October 2022," said Kadiyala. "As a second step, KDOT sent us an agreement. It states that 90% of the participation will by state funding. Then 10% will be the city's portion." 
The Great Bend City Council approved the motion to authorize the mayor to sign
the 2024 CCLIP agreement. Kadiyala said the project still needs to go out for
bids, and from there the city will know what their 10% portion of the project
will be.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Street repairs for portions of Main and Patton in Great Bend

The Barton County Historical Society’s board member Justin Engleman will give a program about local contractor T.C. Cork of Hoisington. 

After T.C. Cork came to Hoisington in 1898 from Marshall, Illinois he began building houses and barns and remodeling existing structures with his brother-in-law. Engleman has identified more than 70 structures Cork built or remodeled and will present the history and facts and figures of each of these structures at 7 p.m., Monday, June 26 at the Barton County Historical Society, 85 S. Highway 281, Great Bend. For additional information or taped actuality, contact Justin Engleman at (620) 282-3844.

Admission is free for members of the society and $5 for others wishing to attend the program. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program will begin at 7 p.m. Light refreshments are provided and the bottled water for attendees is provided by Wheatland Electric. The Barton County Historical Society is open 10 a.m - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and started additional summer hours in April, from 1-4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686239844355.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Historical Society’s board member Justin Engleman will give a program about local contractor T.C. Cork of Hoisington. After T.C. Cork came to Hoisington in 1898 from Marshall, Illinois he began building houses and barns and remodeling existing structures with his brother-in-law. Engleman has identified more than 70 structures Cork built or remodeled and will present the history and facts and figures of each of these structures at 7 p.m., Monday, June 26 at the Barton County Historical Society, 85 S. Highway 281, Great Bend. For additional information or taped actuality, contact Justin Engleman at (620) 282-3844.Admission is free for members of the society and $5 for others wishing to attend the program. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program will begin at 7 p.m. Light refreshments are provided and the bottled water for attendees is provided by Wheatland Electric. The Barton County Historical Society is open 10 a.m - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and started additional summer hours in April, from 1-4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

Program scheduled about contractor T.C. Cork of Hoisington

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (6/8) 
 
Utility Problems 
 
At 1:40 a.m. utility problems were reported at 237 SE 40 Road. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 2:01 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at 83 NW 220 Road in Galatia. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 9:58 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 496 NW 50 Avenue. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 5:18 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at N. Vine Street &amp; W. 2nd
Street in Hoisington. 
 
Fire 
 
At 5:46 p.m. a fire was reported at MM 172 on NW K-96 Highway. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 9:59 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 1775 NW 90 Avenue in Olmitz. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (6/8) 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 4:55 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5501 9th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:18 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 12th &amp;
Williams. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 2:24 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th &amp; Washington. 
 
Burglary / Not in Progress 
 
At 2:27 p.m. a possible burglary was reported at 813 Monroe Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 3:22 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 5501 9th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 4:56 p.m. a hit and run accident was reported at 3929 10th
Street. 
 
At 5:29 p.m. an accident was reported at 8th &amp; C Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 6:18 p.m. a parking complaint was reported at 41 McKinley Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:39 p.m. an accident was reported at 41 McKinley Street. 
 
Choking 
 
At 6:56 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 300 Almond. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 7:20 p.m. a barking dog was reported at 5504 Comanche Road. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:17 p.m. the K-9 was used on a traffic stop at Lakin &amp; Cleveland. 
 
At 10:24 p.m. the K-9 was used on a traffic stop in the 1400 block of Park
Avenue. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:40 p.m. a truck with no lights almost hitting him was reported at 24th
&amp; McKinley. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 11:28 p.m. an unknown driver was westbound in the 2900 block of 27th
Street and struck a legally parked vehicle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (6/8) 
 
Utility Problems 
 
At 1:40 a.m. utility problems were reported at 237 SE 40 Road. 
 
Cattle Out 
 
At 2:01 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at 83 NW 220 Road in Galatia. 
 
Traumatic Injuries 
 
At 9:58 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 496 NW 50 Avenue. 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 5:18 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at N. Vine Street &amp; W. 2nd
Street in Hoisington. 
 
Fire 
 
At 5:46 p.m. a fire was reported at MM 172 on NW K-96 Highway. 
 
Controlled Burn 
 
At 9:59 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 1775 NW 90 Avenue in Olmitz. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident
Log (6/8) 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 4:55 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5501 9th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:18 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 12th &amp;
Williams. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 2:24 p.m. an accident was reported at 24th &amp; Washington. 
 
Burglary / Not in Progress 
 
At 2:27 p.m. a possible burglary was reported at 813 Monroe Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 3:22 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 5501 9th Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 4:56 p.m. a hit and run accident was reported at 3929 10th
Street. 
 
At 5:29 p.m. an accident was reported at 8th &amp; C Street. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 6:18 p.m. a parking complaint was reported at 41 McKinley Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:39 p.m. an accident was reported at 41 McKinley Street. 
 
Choking 
 
At 6:56 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 300 Almond. 
 
Animal Complaint 
 
At 7:20 p.m. a barking dog was reported at 5504 Comanche Road. 
 
K-9 Use / Call Out 
 
At 9:17 p.m. the K-9 was used on a traffic stop at Lakin &amp; Cleveland. 
 
At 10:24 p.m. the K-9 was used on a traffic stop in the 1400 block of Park
Avenue. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 10:40 p.m. a truck with no lights almost hitting him was reported at 24th
&amp; McKinley. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 11:28 p.m. an unknown driver was westbound in the 2900 block of 27th
Street and struck a legally parked vehicle.

Cop Shop (6/8)

6/8 BOOKED: Anthony Paez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jared Scheck on Barton County District Court warrant for stalking x12, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Cassandra Thorne on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Cirus Feil on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Jared Cregger on Hoisington Municipal Court case for No Insurance, No Driver's License in Possession, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Kyle Stroud on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Mareco Sago on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Damage and Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Charles Rowe, Jr., on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Hunter Walker on case for Possession of Marijuana, Illegal transportation of Liquor, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Disregard Stop Sign, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Jeremy Harris on Barton County District Court warrant and Hoisington Municipal Court warrant, to KDOC.

RELEASED: Anthony Paez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jared Cregger on Hoisington Municipal Court case for No Insurance, No Driver's License in Possession, and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond though Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Cristian Cervantes-Macias on Barton County District Court case, on $20,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Corbin Cale on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Opium and Paraphernalia, and for Probation Violation, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Kyle Stroud on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>6/8 BOOKED: Anthony Paez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jared Scheck on Barton County District Court warrant for stalking x12, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Cassandra Thorne on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Cirus Feil on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Jared Cregger on Hoisington Municipal Court case for No Insurance, No Driver's License in Possession, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Kyle Stroud on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Mareco Sago on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Damage and Criminal Threat, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Charles Rowe, Jr., on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Hunter Walker on case for Possession of Marijuana, Illegal transportation of Liquor, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Disregard Stop Sign, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Jeremy Harris on Barton County District Court warrant and Hoisington Municipal Court warrant, to KDOC.RELEASED: Anthony Paez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jared Cregger on Hoisington Municipal Court case for No Insurance, No Driver's License in Possession, and Interference with LEO, after posting $2,500 surety bond though Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Cristian Cervantes-Macias on Barton County District Court case, on $20,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Corbin Cale on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Opium and Paraphernalia, and for Probation Violation, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Kyle Stroud on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (6/8)

Most people are aware of the playground equipment throughout Brit Spaugh Park in Great Bend. Now there's some equipment inside the zoo. Thursday morning, the Great Bend Zoological Society and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the equipment. Society President Aaron Emerson shared some of the group's recent projects.

"The Zoo Society is not directly affiliated with the zoo," he told the crowd. "We are not part of the city like the zoo is. We are an independent 501(c)(3). Our sole purpose, though, is to just support the zoo."

Last December, the Society hosted Cookies with Santa. The group was one of the Earth Day event sponsors in April with members handing out popcorn to attendees. The Zoo Society is also behind the animal posters that now line Main Street, it purchases the lead-testing kits used for raptors, and the group is also behind several repainted murals, including a mural for Karen Neuforth, the former Society president and local arts supporter who passed away in March 2021. The current fundraising project is a flight cage for rehabilitated raptors. Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick appreciates the Society's support.

"Thanks to the Zoo Society," she said. "They help us get some of the stuff we don't maybe have in our general budget. They've done a lot to improve our grounds and make it a little more interactive experience for our visitors."

The playground equipment installed earlier this year includes a wheelchair-accessible swing. It was paid for by contributions from Giving Tuesday, the Central Kansas Toy Run, Golden Belt Community Foundation, and&nbsp;Riedel Family Endowment – Alan, Michael, Avis, and Clarence.

Annual memberships to the Zoological Society are $25 for an entire household, or lifetime memberships are available for $500. Individual animals may also be sponsored. <a href="https://www.greatbendks.net/306/Zoo-Society">CLICK HERE </a>for more information about the Great Bend Zoological Society.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686239172070.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMost people are aware of the playground equipment throughout Brit Spaugh Park in Great Bend. Now there's some equipment inside the zoo. Thursday morning, the Great Bend Zoological Society and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the equipment. Society President Aaron Emerson shared some of the group's recent projects."The Zoo Society is not directly affiliated with the zoo," he told the crowd. "We are not part of the city like the zoo is. We are an independent 501(c)(3). Our sole purpose, though, is to just support the zoo."Last December, the Society hosted Cookies with Santa. The group was one of the Earth Day event sponsors in April with members handing out popcorn to attendees. The Zoo Society is also behind the animal posters that now line Main Street, it purchases the lead-testing kits used for raptors, and the group is also behind several repainted murals, including a mural for Karen Neuforth, the former Society president and local arts supporter who passed away in March 2021. The current fundraising project is a flight cage for rehabilitated raptors. Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick appreciates the Society's support."Thanks to the Zoo Society," she said. "They help us get some of the stuff we don't maybe have in our general budget. They've done a lot to improve our grounds and make it a little more interactive experience for our visitors."The playground equipment installed earlier this year includes a wheelchair-accessible swing. It was paid for by contributions from Giving Tuesday, the Central Kansas Toy Run, Golden Belt Community Foundation, and&nbsp;Riedel Family Endowment – Alan, Michael, Avis, and Clarence.Annual memberships to the Zoological Society are $25 for an entire household, or lifetime memberships are available for $500. Individual animals may also be sponsored. <a href="https://www.greatbendks.net/306/Zoo-Society">CLICK HERE </a>for more information about the Great Bend Zoological Society.

Great Bend Chamber cuts ribbon on playground equipment at zoo

Today A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Light and variable wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.

Tonight A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. Southeast wind 7 to 11 mph becoming west after midnight.

Saturday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west in the morning.

Saturday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Southwest wind 9 to 14 mph becoming north-northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.

Sunday Partly sunny, with a high near 78.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 55.

Monday Partly sunny, with a high near 76.

Monday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56.

Tuesday A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 76. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.

Tuesday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 56.

Wednesday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.

Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 59.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 87.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Light and variable wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.Tonight A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. Southeast wind 7 to 11 mph becoming west after midnight.Saturday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west in the morning.Saturday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Southwest wind 9 to 14 mph becoming north-northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph.Sunday Partly sunny, with a high near 78.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 55.Monday Partly sunny, with a high near 76.Monday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56.Tuesday A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 76. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.Tuesday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 56.Wednesday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 59.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 87.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Not only do hot summer days make people uncomfortable outdoors, it can also impact livestock.

K-State Research and Extension beef veterinarian A.J. Tarpoff said temperature, humidity, wind speed and solar radiation all affect cattle. Not only do producers need to watch daytime temperatures, Tarpoff said nighttime temperatures are just as important in preventing heat stress.

“They really need about six hours of nighttime cooling to dissipate the heat load they

accumulated during the day,” Tarpoff said.

A forecasting tool Tarpoff recommends is the Kansas Mesonet.

To minimize the amount of heat stress on the cattle, Tarpoff advises producers to finish all processing or handling work with cattle before 10 a.m. on hot days, and potentially to push feeding times to later in the evening.

“When we feed cattle, they will actually increase their heat load just from digestion for the next 4 to 6 hours,” Tarpoff said.

He also recommends reducing the stocking load, which increases spacing and allows for better air circulation and easier access to water.

“During the summer months we want to increase wind speed as much as we can just to be able to dissipate some of that heat load,” he said.

Another strategy that Tarpoff recommends is providing cattle bedding and shade so that animals have a cool place to lay.“ Cattle have an immense shade seeking behavior,” he said.

Tarpoff said water misters should only be used in the morning and evening for evaporative cooling of the pen surface.

“We don’t wet the cattle to cool them during the heat of the day,” he said. “That can be disastrous because we can actually increase the humidity at the pen level at that time of day.”

Interested persons can also send their questions to Tarpoff at tarpoff@ksu.edu, or contact the Cottonwood Extension District at either 620-793-1910 or 785-628-9430.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Not only do hot summer days make people uncomfortable outdoors, it can also impact livestock.K-State Research and Extension beef veterinarian A.J. Tarpoff said temperature, humidity, wind speed and solar radiation all affect cattle. Not only do producers need to watch daytime temperatures, Tarpoff said nighttime temperatures are just as important in preventing heat stress.“They really need about six hours of nighttime cooling to dissipate the heat load theyaccumulated during the day,” Tarpoff said.A forecasting tool Tarpoff recommends is the Kansas Mesonet.To minimize the amount of heat stress on the cattle, Tarpoff advises producers to finish all processing or handling work with cattle before 10 a.m. on hot days, and potentially to push feeding times to later in the evening.“When we feed cattle, they will actually increase their heat load just from digestion for the next 4 to 6 hours,” Tarpoff said.He also recommends reducing the stocking load, which increases spacing and allows for better air circulation and easier access to water.“During the summer months we want to increase wind speed as much as we can just to be able to dissipate some of that heat load,” he said.Another strategy that Tarpoff recommends is providing cattle bedding and shade so that animals have a cool place to lay.“ Cattle have an immense shade seeking behavior,” he said.Tarpoff said water misters should only be used in the morning and evening for evaporative cooling of the pen surface.“We don’t wet the cattle to cool them during the heat of the day,” he said. “That can be disastrous because we can actually increase the humidity at the pen level at that time of day.”Interested persons can also send their questions to Tarpoff at tarpoff@ksu.edu, or contact the Cottonwood Extension District at either 620-793-1910 or 785-628-9430.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Hot summer days impacting livestock

Hoisington Public Library will host “A New Deal for Public Art in the Free State,” a presentation and discussion by Kara Heitz at 10 a.m. June 17 at Hoisington Public Library, 169 S. Walnut, 620-653-4128. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas. Refreshments will be served.

Between 1934 and 1943, the U.S. Treasury Department commissioned over 1,600 pieces of public art for newly constructed post office buildings across the United States. In the state of Kansas, twenty-nine of these murals and other artworks were installed in twenty-six post offices, as a part of this New Deal arts program. For eight decades, thousands of Kansans have walked past these public works of art - sometimes in appreciation, sometimes with a nod of familiarity, sometimes without even registering their existence. This talk explores what these murals can tell about Kansas during the Great Depression era, and how do they continue to speak to Kansans today.

Kara Heitz is a historian and educator who engages in cultural history storytelling through documentaries, podcasts, and writing. She is a lecturer in the Liberal Arts department of the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) where she teaches courses on 20th century American history, film and history, and critical studies.

“A New Deal for Public Art in the Free State” is part of Humanities Kansas's Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.

“The Hoisington Post Office has New Deal art,” said Karen La Pierre, director Hoisington Public Library. “Ms. Heitz will spend some time focusing on the art work at Hoisington.”

About Humanities Kansas Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626282272115.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hoisington Public Library will host “A New Deal for Public Art in the Free State,” a presentation and discussion by Kara Heitz at 10 a.m. June 17 at Hoisington Public Library, 169 S. Walnut, 620-653-4128. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas. Refreshments will be served.Between 1934 and 1943, the U.S. Treasury Department commissioned over 1,600 pieces of public art for newly constructed post office buildings across the United States. In the state of Kansas, twenty-nine of these murals and other artworks were installed in twenty-six post offices, as a part of this New Deal arts program. For eight decades, thousands of Kansans have walked past these public works of art - sometimes in appreciation, sometimes with a nod of familiarity, sometimes without even registering their existence. This talk explores what these murals can tell about Kansas during the Great Depression era, and how do they continue to speak to Kansans today.Kara Heitz is a historian and educator who engages in cultural history storytelling through documentaries, podcasts, and writing. She is a lecturer in the Liberal Arts department of the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) where she teaches courses on 20th century American history, film and history, and critical studies.“A New Deal for Public Art in the Free State” is part of Humanities Kansas's Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.“The Hoisington Post Office has New Deal art,” said Karen La Pierre, director Hoisington Public Library. “Ms. Heitz will spend some time focusing on the art work at Hoisington.”About Humanities Kansas Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.

Hoisington library hosting presentation on KS murals from Great Depression era

Employers looking to explore health benefit offerings will have another opportunity to review or renew the new Chamber Blue of Kansas health insurance offering. Chamber Blue is an innovative partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) and Chamber of Commerce Executives of Kansas (CCEKS). Comprised of 59 Chambers of Commerce across the state to provide a comprehensive Association Health Plan, 20 businesses chose to enroll within the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce membership base for the 2023 plan year.

Recognizing the significance of attracting and retaining talent for businesses of all sizes, especially small businesses, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and its partner chambers joined forces in 2022 to ensure access to trusted health insurance benefits. Small businesses play a crucial role in Kansas, comprising over 99.1% of all businesses in the state and employing a combined total of 605,147 small business employees, according to SBA statistics.

The Chamber Blue Association Health Plan allows organizations, including small businesses, non-profits, and other entities, to leverage the advantages of large-group medical coverage. By coming together, these organizations can pool resources and access health insurance savings while expanding their coverage options. This collaboration results in a broader pool, reduced risk, and potentially more competitive premiums.

What You Need to Know for Plan Year 2024 · In order to review rates, employers must complete the Interest Survey which will be available from July – August.

· Renewal information to be sent out in October.

· Enrollment information collected from November 1 – 15

· Businesses must be chamber members to enroll. Ask your local chamber to see if they are a participating chamber member.

2024 Renewal Changes · Renewal will be age banded (5-year age bands) based on average age of the group. The rates will be composite rated, the same as in 2023.

· Limit to groups of 50 employees or less. Groups currently enrolled with over 50 employees will be grandfathered and can remain.

· Underwriting process – BCBSKS will review the risk of groups – if the risk of the group is within 10% of the risk of the association, they will be accepted, if the risk is higher, they will be denied.

· Groups with 10 or more employees will complete the census.

· Groups with 9 or fewer employees will complete health profiles.

Employers looking to explore health benefit offerings will have another opportunity to review or renew the new Chamber Blue of Kansas health insurance offering. Chamber Blue is an innovative partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) and Chamber of Commerce Executives of Kansas (CCEKS). Comprised of 59 Chambers of Commerce across the state to provide a comprehensive Association Health Plan, 20 businesses chose to enroll within the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce membership base for the 2023 plan year.Recognizing the significance of attracting and retaining talent for businesses of all sizes, especially small businesses, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and its partner chambers joined forces in 2022 to ensure access to trusted health insurance benefits. Small businesses play a crucial role in Kansas, comprising over 99.1% of all businesses in the state and employing a combined total of 605,147 small business employees, according to SBA statistics.The Chamber Blue Association Health Plan allows organizations, including small businesses, non-profits, and other entities, to leverage the advantages of large-group medical coverage. By coming together, these organizations can pool resources and access health insurance savings while expanding their coverage options. This collaboration results in a broader pool, reduced risk, and potentially more competitive premiums.What You Need to Know for Plan Year 2024 · In order to review rates, employers must complete the Interest Survey which will be available from July – August.· Renewal information to be sent out in October.· Enrollment information collected from November 1 – 15· Rates finalized by December 1· ID cards mailed December 22· Businesses must be chamber members to enroll. Ask your local chamber to see if they are a participating chamber member.2024 Renewal Changes · Renewal will be age banded (5-year age bands) based on average age of the group. The rates will be composite rated, the same as in 2023.· Limit to groups of 50 employees or less. Groups currently enrolled with over 50 employees will be grandfathered and can remain.· Underwriting process – BCBSKS will review the risk of groups – if the risk of the group is within 10% of the risk of the association, they will be accepted, if the risk is higher, they will be denied.· Groups with 10 or more employees will complete the census.· Groups with 9 or fewer employees will complete health profiles.

Great Bend Chamber enrolling small businesses for health insurance program

The Barton County Health Department's Community Baby Shower continues to grow. The event went from 16 vendors in its first year to approximately 30 vendors last year. The baby shower returns to Jack Kilby Square in downtown Great Bend on Thursday, June 15. Sarai Prieto, WIC clerk and breastfeeding peer counselor at the health department, said new families can learn and win at the event.

"It's just a bunch of resources that families can get all at one time. If they're expecting, if they're about to give birth, or if they already gave birth, they'd have all these different resources in our community available to them."

Among the various vendors will be the Department of Children and Families to talk about cash assistance and food assistance programs. KanCare is ready to inform about state medical cards, area pediatricians will be ready to meet new families, and health department staff will educate on WIC services, breastfeeding, and car seat safety. The Great Bend Fire Department will provide information about Safe Sleep in an effort to reduce Sudden Unexpected Infant Death risks. Each vendor will also play a role in a bingo game for attendees.

"They'll get that card, they'll jump around from vendor to vendor, get that signed," Prieto said. "At the end, they'll give that back to us and we'll use that to do raffle prizes. Each vendor that comes in brings a door prize and that's what we raffle off."

The Community Baby Shower is scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. at Jack Kilby Square and is open to all members of the public.

"That information is always good for grandparents, aunts or uncles, or anyone that will be around or involved in the child's life," said Prieto.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686248613417.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Health Department's Community Baby Shower continues to grow. The event went from 16 vendors in its first year to approximately 30 vendors last year. The baby shower returns to Jack Kilby Square in downtown Great Bend on Thursday, June 15. Sarai Prieto, WIC clerk and breastfeeding peer counselor at the health department, said new families can learn and win at the event."It's just a bunch of resources that families can get all at one time. If they're expecting, if they're about to give birth, or if they already gave birth, they'd have all these different resources in our community available to them."Among the various vendors will be the Department of Children and Families to talk about cash assistance and food assistance programs. KanCare is ready to inform about state medical cards, area pediatricians will be ready to meet new families, and health department staff will educate on WIC services, breastfeeding, and car seat safety. The Great Bend Fire Department will provide information about Safe Sleep in an effort to reduce Sudden Unexpected Infant Death risks. Each vendor will also play a role in a bingo game for attendees."They'll get that card, they'll jump around from vendor to vendor, get that signed," Prieto said. "At the end, they'll give that back to us and we'll use that to do raffle prizes. Each vendor that comes in brings a door prize and that's what we raffle off."The Community Baby Shower is scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. at Jack Kilby Square and is open to all members of the public."That information is always good for grandparents, aunts or uncles, or anyone that will be around or involved in the child's life," said Prieto.

Community Baby Shower returns to downtown Great Bend June 15

From the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo...

We don't know the full story on this poor turtle, but it was brought to us by a good Samaritan near Salina. This is not how we treat wildlife, someone purposely painted on this turtle's shell. This not only makes them a super visible target for predators, it also impedes their shells ability to absorb sunlight. It also appears this turtle may have been chewed on by a dog or other predatory animal. This is not the first time we've had to assist a turtle that had been covered in paint, please never do this! Our goal is to get the wounds cleaned up but without knowing when it was attacked, infection may have already spread beyond what we can help.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686076746359.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo...We don't know the full story on this poor turtle, but it was brought to us by a good Samaritan near Salina. This is not how we treat wildlife, someone purposely painted on this turtle's shell. This not only makes them a super visible target for predators, it also impedes their shells ability to absorb sunlight. It also appears this turtle may have been chewed on by a dog or other predatory animal. This is not the first time we've had to assist a turtle that had been covered in paint, please never do this! Our goal is to get the wounds cleaned up but without knowing when it was attacked, infection may have already spread beyond what we can help.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686076771551.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgreatbendzoo%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02nexmq3WjepFb3oWZK9Pu4aczzds5XZ6YQX1SZxq5UkU4wM39JhpKgHFSSW1b2ynFl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="799" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Great Bend zoo reminds everyone to respect wildlife

Two weeks ago, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announced more than $8.8 million would be handed out to counties as part of the Kansas High-Risk Rural Roads Program. Wednesday morning, Barton County Engineer Barry McManaman outlined to the county commission how the $171,000 coming to Barton County will be used.

"We would have an engineering study done on about 77 miles of our county blacktop roads to determine the proper location of no-passing zones and then put up the required pennants," McManaman said.

The study will include roads primarily in the southwest quadrant of the county, with some work in the southeast quadrant. The line will include Dartmouth Blacktop, or SE 60 Avenue and west, and roads south of US-56 and K-96 highways. Barton County does overlay and sealing work on one-fourth of the county each year. This project will align with the timeline of overlay work in the southwest quadrant before new striping is put down.

"I'm sure the previous county engineers and road departments have gone out and taken a look at them," said McManaman. "Some of it could be, quite honestly, by just good judgment, determining where those hills are and where a no-passing zone might need to be. This will be an official study that we can have documented."

KDOT will pay 100 percent of the costs. Ellsworth and Rice counties will receive a combined $588,000 thousand through the program for work in those counties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615556074923.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostTwo weeks ago, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announced more than $8.8 million would be handed out to counties as part of the Kansas High-Risk Rural Roads Program. Wednesday morning, Barton County Engineer Barry McManaman outlined to the county commission how the $171,000 coming to Barton County will be used."We would have an engineering study done on about 77 miles of our county blacktop roads to determine the proper location of no-passing zones and then put up the required pennants," McManaman said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686152073443.png" alt="Roads highlighted in orange will be included in the project." />
 <figcaption>Roads highlighted in orange will be included in the project.</figcaption>
 </figure>The study will include roads primarily in the southwest quadrant of the county, with some work in the southeast quadrant. The line will include Dartmouth Blacktop, or SE 60 Avenue and west, and roads south of US-56 and K-96 highways. Barton County does overlay and sealing work on one-fourth of the county each year. This project will align with the timeline of overlay work in the southwest quadrant before new striping is put down."I'm sure the previous county engineers and road departments have gone out and taken a look at them," said McManaman. "Some of it could be, quite honestly, by just good judgment, determining where those hills are and where a no-passing zone might need to be. This will be an official study that we can have documented."KDOT will pay 100 percent of the costs. Ellsworth and Rice counties will receive a combined $588,000 thousand through the program for work in those counties.

KDOT paying for no-passing zone study on Barton blacktops

For the second straight year, the City of Great Bend will use Circle C
Paving to chip and seal with a fog seal top coating on residential streets on
approximately 100 blocks. Public Works Director Jason Cauley said the majority
of the work will be around the Hubbard and Holland street area. 

The Great Bend
City Council approved the lone bid for the project but asked Cauley if a
supervisor can look over the streets to make sure potholes are filled before Circle
C seals the roads. "This is our second year of doing this, so we're still kind of in that experimental phase," said Cauley. "The streets that we crack seal, those are the ones that we chip and seal later. We can add that whenever we're crack sealing and address those issues." 
The bid from Circle C for the chip and seal project cost $308,100 and was
budgeted in the ¼ cent sales tax fund. Cauley expected the project to begin at
the end of July or early August.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673042832082.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFor the second straight year, the City of Great Bend will use Circle C
Paving to chip and seal with a fog seal top coating on residential streets on
approximately 100 blocks. Public Works Director Jason Cauley said the majority
of the work will be around the Hubbard and Holland street area. The Great Bend
City Council approved the lone bid for the project but asked Cauley if a
supervisor can look over the streets to make sure potholes are filled before Circle
C seals the roads. "This is our second year of doing this, so we're still kind of in that experimental phase," said Cauley. "The streets that we crack seal, those are the ones that we chip and seal later. We can add that whenever we're crack sealing and address those issues." 
The bid from Circle C for the chip and seal project cost $308,100 and was
budgeted in the ¼ cent sales tax fund. Cauley expected the project to begin at
the end of July or early August.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend hires company to chip & seal 100 residential blocks

Rush County is among the latest beneficiaries of a Historical Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grant. On Monday, Kansas Commerce Secretary David Toland announced 17 recipients for spring grants for projects totaling nearly $918,000 in matching grant funds. Rush County Economic Development Director Brad Penka explained how the $17,462 grant will be used.

"It's to restore some type of historic structure to get it back and make it economically viable," he said. "This one is going to be used for, it was an old service station in Otis. It's a 20s-era building, and it's being restored to become an office for a business there in Otis."

Other spring recipients around the state will renovate restaurants, a brewery, childcare centers, a sewing shop, and a coffee shop and bakery. A total of 30 HEAL grant applications were received for the spring round. The grants are part of a partnership between the Patterson Family Foundation and the Kansas Department of Commerce.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686076607960.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostRush County is among the latest beneficiaries of a Historical Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grant. On Monday, Kansas Commerce Secretary David Toland announced 17 recipients for spring grants for projects totaling nearly $918,000 in matching grant funds. Rush County Economic Development Director Brad Penka explained how the $17,462 grant will be used."It's to restore some type of historic structure to get it back and make it economically viable," he said. "This one is going to be used for, it was an old service station in Otis. It's a 20s-era building, and it's being restored to become an office for a business there in Otis."Other spring recipients around the state will renovate restaurants, a brewery, childcare centers, a sewing shop, and a coffee shop and bakery. A total of 30 HEAL grant applications were received for the spring round. The grants are part of a partnership between the Patterson Family Foundation and the Kansas Department of Commerce.

Otis service station project selected for HEAL grant

Spending the past four months without an official fire chief, the City
of Great Bend will begin the interview process soon. 

Luke McCormick served as the
fire chief for more than five years until the Great Bend City Council approved
his immediate resignation on Feb. 6 of this year. McCormick
was with the Great Bend Fire Department since 1996 before his resignation was
accepted without any comment or recognition of service. 

Mayor Cody Schmidt said
a committee will look over possible candidates. "Logan (Burns) has put together a small list of names," said Schmidt. "I have looked at that, but I will leave that open to council. We all know the rules on how many can be there. We'll look things over and get something finalized yet this week so we can move forward with that." 
In February, Interim City Administrator Logan Burns mentioned hiring a new fire
chief would wait until Great Bend found their next city administrator. Brandon
Anderson was approved to be the next city administrator in May and will officially
begin his position July 1. 
Deputy Chief Brent Smith has served as interim fire chief since McCormick’s
resignation.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638905466678.jpeg" alt="(file photo) Former Great Bend Fire Chief Luke McCormick (right) to shake Mayor Cody Schmidt's hand" />
 <figcaption>(file photo) Former Great Bend Fire Chief Luke McCormick (right) to shake Mayor Cody Schmidt's hand</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostSpending the past four months without an official fire chief, the City
of Great Bend will begin the interview process soon. Luke McCormick served as the
fire chief for more than five years until the Great Bend City Council approved
his immediate resignation on Feb. 6 of this year. McCormick
was with the Great Bend Fire Department since 1996 before his resignation was
accepted without any comment or recognition of service. Mayor Cody Schmidt said
a committee will look over possible candidates. "Logan (Burns) has put together a small list of names," said Schmidt. "I have looked at that, but I will leave that open to council. We all know the rules on how many can be there. We'll look things over and get something finalized yet this week so we can move forward with that." 
In February, Interim City Administrator Logan Burns mentioned hiring a new fire
chief would wait until Great Bend found their next city administrator. Brandon
Anderson was approved to be the next city administrator in May and will officially
begin his position July 1. 
Deputy Chief Brent Smith has served as interim fire chief since McCormick’s
resignation.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend to begin interviews for next fire chief

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (6/7) 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 12:07 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 200 block of SE 10 Avenue. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 12:37 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. K-4 Highway &amp; NE 160
Avenue in Claflin. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:05 a.m. an accident was reported in the 500 block of SE 20 Road. 
 
At 1:16 p.m. an accident was reported at 108 Patton Road. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 5:47 p.m. a trespassing case was reported at 487 SE 60 Avenue in Ellinwood. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 9:29 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. K-4 Highway &amp; NW 40
Avenue in Hoisington. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log
(6/7) 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 12:07 a.m. BTSO requested assistance on a traffic arrest in the 200 block of
SE 10 Avenue. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 9:39 a.m. a parking complaint was reported at 21st Street &amp;
Odell Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 12:44 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:14 p.m. a driving complaint on a black Nissan was reported at Broadway
&amp; Harrison. 
 
At 5:55 p.m. a driving complaint was reported on a Ford Edge at 10th
Street &amp; Main Street. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 9:44 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 222 Hickory Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592405093656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office Incident Log (6/7) 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 12:07 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 200 block of SE 10 Avenue. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 12:37 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. K-4 Highway &amp; NE 160
Avenue in Claflin. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 6:05 a.m. an accident was reported in the 500 block of SE 20 Road. 
 
At 1:16 p.m. an accident was reported at 108 Patton Road. 
 
Trespassing / Criminal 
 
At 5:47 p.m. a trespassing case was reported at 487 SE 60 Avenue in Ellinwood. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 9:29 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. K-4 Highway &amp; NW 40
Avenue in Hoisington. 
 
Great Bend Police Department Incident Log
(6/7) 
 
Traffic Arrest 
 
At 12:07 a.m. BTSO requested assistance on a traffic arrest in the 200 block of
SE 10 Avenue. 
 
Parking Complaint 
 
At 9:39 a.m. a parking complaint was reported at 21st Street &amp;
Odell Street. 
 
Non-Injury Accident 
 
At 12:44 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th Street. 
 
Driving / Driver Complaint 
 
At 2:14 p.m. a driving complaint on a black Nissan was reported at Broadway
&amp; Harrison. 
 
At 5:55 p.m. a driving complaint was reported on a Ford Edge at 10th
Street &amp; Main Street. 
 
Breathing Problems 
 
At 9:44 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 222 Hickory Street.

Cop Shop (6/7)

6/7 BOOKED: Matthew Harris on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Alfredo Delgadillo on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Possession of Cocaine, and Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Saul Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine and Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Eliseo Velasco on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Jared Scheck on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of Protective Order, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Audra Musil on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Residential Burglary, Criminal Threat, and Battery x2, bond set at $75,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Steve Cherry on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, No Seat Belt, Improper Backing, and Obstruction, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Matthew Harris on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Alfredo Delgadillo on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Possession of Cocaine, and Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Saul Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine and Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond.

RELEASED: Ralph Tuey, Jr., on Russell County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, to Russell County.

RELEASED: Audra Musil on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Residential Burglary, Criminal Threat, and Battery x2, after posting $75,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Steve Cherry on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, No Seat Belt, Improper Backing, and Obstruction, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>6/7 BOOKED: Matthew Harris on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Alfredo Delgadillo on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Possession of Cocaine, and Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Saul Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine and Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Eliseo Velasco on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Jared Scheck on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of Protective Order, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Audra Musil on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Residential Burglary, Criminal Threat, and Battery x2, bond set at $75,000 C/S.BOOKED: Steve Cherry on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, No Seat Belt, Improper Backing, and Obstruction, bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Matthew Harris on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Alfredo Delgadillo on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Possession of Cocaine, and Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Saul Hernandez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine and Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond.RELEASED: Ralph Tuey, Jr., on Russell County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, to Russell County.RELEASED: Audra Musil on Barton County District Court warrant for Aggravated Residential Burglary, Criminal Threat, and Battery x2, after posting $75,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Steve Cherry on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, No Seat Belt, Improper Backing, and Obstruction, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (6/7)

The home opener for the Great Bend Bat Cats is Thursday, June 8 as the summer
collegiate baseball team will welcome the Hutchinson Monarchs at Al Burns Memorial Field. 

More improvements to the ballfield inside Veterans Memorial Park seem to
be happening all the time. The largest addition towering behind the leftfield
fence is a new scoreboard. 

Bat Cats General Manager Roger Ward has more
facility upgrades in mind after the organization was recently selected as the
recipient of $10,000 in donations from 100+ People That Care of Barton County. "We've got plenty of expenses at the facility," said Ward. "We want to keep it all local and put it into the facility. I usually bite off more than I can chew with upgrades. This donation will help with a lot of that. You'll see improvements sprinkled around. What a blessing that was." 
Ward anticipates adding more steps and railing to the grandstand, improving the
concession stands, adding digital signage, placing padding along the backstop and
getting better audio equipment for the press box.&nbsp;An on-field microphone for the National Anthem is also an area of need.

This summer marks the seventh year for
the Bat Cats organization, and Ward hopes the revival of Al Burns Field opens
the facility to more events, including high school baseball showcases. "This summer we're bring the Jayhawk League Home Run Derby and All-Star game to Great Bend," said Ward. "It's never been hosted anywhere but Wichita State University. We're bringing that to our community and that's a tribute to the facility upgrades. Also the older Bombers Baseball team will have some of their games here." 
The Thursday game against Hutchinson begins at 7 p.m. As always, admission is
free to all home Bat Cats games.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

To learn more about the Great Bend Bat Cats, please visit their website at greatbendbatcats.com and be sure to like and follow the organization’s Facebook page.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686152409306.jpeg" alt="The new scoreboard at Al Burns Memorial Field in Great Bend" />
 <figcaption>The new scoreboard at Al Burns Memorial Field in Great Bend</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe home opener for the Great Bend Bat Cats is Thursday, June 8 as the summer
collegiate baseball team will welcome the Hutchinson Monarchs at Al Burns Memorial Field. More improvements to the ballfield inside Veterans Memorial Park seem to
be happening all the time. The largest addition towering behind the leftfield
fence is a new scoreboard. Bat Cats General Manager Roger Ward has more
facility upgrades in mind after the organization was recently selected as the
recipient of $10,000 in donations from 100+ People That Care of Barton County. "We've got plenty of expenses at the facility," said Ward. "We want to keep it all local and put it into the facility. I usually bite off more than I can chew with upgrades. This donation will help with a lot of that. You'll see improvements sprinkled around. What a blessing that was." 
Ward anticipates adding more steps and railing to the grandstand, improving the
concession stands, adding digital signage, placing padding along the backstop and
getting better audio equipment for the press box.&nbsp;An on-field microphone for the National Anthem is also an area of need.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686078692007.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This summer marks the seventh year for
the Bat Cats organization, and Ward hopes the revival of Al Burns Field opens
the facility to more events, including high school baseball showcases. "This summer we're bring the Jayhawk League Home Run Derby and All-Star game to Great Bend," said Ward. "It's never been hosted anywhere but Wichita State University. We're bringing that to our community and that's a tribute to the facility upgrades. Also the older Bombers Baseball team will have some of their games here." 
The Thursday game against Hutchinson begins at 7 p.m. As always, admission is
free to all home Bat Cats games.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;To learn more about the Great Bend Bat Cats, please visit their website at greatbendbatcats.com and be sure to like and follow the organization’s Facebook page.&nbsp;

New scoreboard; GB Bat Cats plan facility upgrades with donation

Today Sunny, with a high near 89. West wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east-southeast in the afternoon.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 63. East wind 6 to 9 mph.

Friday A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. Southeast wind 7 to 13 mph becoming south-southwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.

Saturday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. South wind 9 to 11 mph.

Saturday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Sunday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 78.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.

Monday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 57.

Tuesday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.

Tuesday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.

Wednesday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 89. West wind 6 to 8 mph becoming east-southeast in the afternoon.Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 63. East wind 6 to 9 mph.Friday A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.Friday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. Southeast wind 7 to 13 mph becoming south-southwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.Saturday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. South wind 9 to 11 mph.Saturday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 61.Sunday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 78.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 54.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 80.Monday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 57.Tuesday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.Tuesday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59.Wednesday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

Story by Maggie Harris&nbsp; Photo by Joe Vinduska

Barton Community College has partnered with Medicalodges, Inc. to offer a new apprenticeship program blending classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Medicalodges Academy: Pathway to Learning and Earning will allow students to train in areas such as Registered Nursing (RN), Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN), Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), and Dietary Manager.

Barton Vice President of Instruction Elaine Simmons, said Barton has served area businesses and local industries for years to support workforce development. With the addition of registered apprenticeship programs in the area, the College can extend additional support through on-the-job training, related technical instruction, and industry-recognized credentials.

“The College is offering its support to organizations seeking to use apprenticeships as a tool for recruiting and retaining employees,” she said. “In addition to technical training, apprenticeships can also offer mentorships and wage progression to support employees.”

Medicalodges was chosen as the first partnership to launch the academy because of its commitment to offering the community an opportunity to learn while they earn. Medicalodges Executive Vice President, Shannon Lagers said that they are not only committed to providing quality healthcare but also career and advancement opportunities to their employees and those that live in their communities.

“We know&nbsp;the quality of the services we provide is dependent upon a sufficient and skilled workforce,” she said. “Medicalodges Academy: Learn while you Earn is an avenue to develop that workforce, and we are excited&nbsp;to collaborate with Barton in offering this workforce opportunity."

Great Bend Economic Development President Sara Arnberger said apprenticeships are integral to growing the workforce for the future. They combine mentorship, milestone pay increases, and further the community culture of a company.

“We're so thrilled to see Barton Community College help to facilitate these programs within our area businesses and are equally as thrilled to celebrate Medicalodges and the launch of their new program,” she said. “By forming this apprenticeship&nbsp;collaboration, we are effectively enhancing the workforce of tomorrow, and Great Bend Economic Development is happy to support and champion&nbsp;these efforts."

The community is invited to join the College and Medicalodges on from 2-4 p.m. June 14 at 1401 Cherry Lane to learn more about this new opportunity. Academy information will be available throughout the come-and-go event, with opening comments beginning at 2:15 p.m.

According to the 2021 Kansas Wage Survey, employment in fields like nursing and dietary management is expected to grow by five to seven percent by 2030.

Medicalodges, Inc. is a 100 percent employee owned Kansas-based company with over 1,600 employees and 30 locations across Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. They provide a continuum of care, primarily in rural communities,&nbsp;for older adults and those living with developmental disabilities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686061612076.jpeg" alt="Barton student practices taking vitals on a mannequin as part of the CNA curriculum." />
 <figcaption>Barton student practices taking vitals on a mannequin as part of the CNA curriculum.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie Harris&nbsp; Photo by Joe VinduskaBarton Community College has partnered with Medicalodges, Inc. to offer a new apprenticeship program blending classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Medicalodges Academy: Pathway to Learning and Earning will allow students to train in areas such as Registered Nursing (RN), Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN), Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), and Dietary Manager.Barton Vice President of Instruction Elaine Simmons, said Barton has served area businesses and local industries for years to support workforce development. With the addition of registered apprenticeship programs in the area, the College can extend additional support through on-the-job training, related technical instruction, and industry-recognized credentials.“The College is offering its support to organizations seeking to use apprenticeships as a tool for recruiting and retaining employees,” she said. “In addition to technical training, apprenticeships can also offer mentorships and wage progression to support employees.”Medicalodges was chosen as the first partnership to launch the academy because of its commitment to offering the community an opportunity to learn while they earn. Medicalodges Executive Vice President, Shannon Lagers said that they are not only committed to providing quality healthcare but also career and advancement opportunities to their employees and those that live in their communities.“We know&nbsp;the quality of the services we provide is dependent upon a sufficient and skilled workforce,” she said. “Medicalodges Academy: Learn while you Earn is an avenue to develop that workforce, and we are excited&nbsp;to collaborate with Barton in offering this workforce opportunity."Great Bend Economic Development President Sara Arnberger said apprenticeships are integral to growing the workforce for the future. They combine mentorship, milestone pay increases, and further the community culture of a company.“We're so thrilled to see Barton Community College help to facilitate these programs within our area businesses and are equally as thrilled to celebrate Medicalodges and the launch of their new program,” she said. “By forming this apprenticeship&nbsp;collaboration, we are effectively enhancing the workforce of tomorrow, and Great Bend Economic Development is happy to support and champion&nbsp;these efforts."The community is invited to join the College and Medicalodges on from 2-4 p.m. June 14 at 1401 Cherry Lane to learn more about this new opportunity. Academy information will be available throughout the come-and-go event, with opening comments beginning at 2:15 p.m.According to the 2021 Kansas Wage Survey, employment in fields like nursing and dietary management is expected to grow by five to seven percent by 2030.Medicalodges, Inc. is a 100 percent employee owned Kansas-based company with over 1,600 employees and 30 locations across Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. They provide a continuum of care, primarily in rural communities,&nbsp;for older adults and those living with developmental disabilities.&nbsp;

Barton CC and Medicalodges announce new apprenticeship academy

Great Bend Chamber of Commerce coffee hour &amp; ribbon cutting Thursday, June 8

Great Bend Zoological Society, 2123 Main Street (Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo). Doors open at 9 a.m. The program begins at 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592426026608.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Chamber of Commerce coffee hour &amp; ribbon cutting Thursday, June 8Great Bend Zoological Society, 2123 Main Street (Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo). Doors open at 9 a.m. The program begins at 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;

Great Bend Chamber coffee hour & ribbon cutting (6/8)

Central Kansas Christian Academy (CKCA), a K-8th grade Christian school in Great Bend, is pleased to announce the hiring of a new school Principal and School Administrator, Sherry Pruter. 

“I am excited to work with a Christian staff and help our students to understand not only the importance of a good education, but even more important are the values and Christian principles that they learn here at CKCA,” said Pruter. “My long-range vision is to have CKCA accredited as a K-12 building.”

Pruter has nearly three decades of experience in education, as she taught for 16 years between the Great Bend and Nickerson school districts. After that, she spent the last 13 years as a school counselor in Lyons and Larned. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from McPherson College and a Master’s Degree from Fort Hays State University before earning a certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in 2015 and then clinical Licensure in 2018 (LCPC). Additionally, while working as a counselor, she also worked as a part time therapist at Healing Hearts Ranch &amp; HHR Therapeutic Service, LLC from 2014-2022 until the agency closed. Recently she also received her Administrative Certification through Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).

“My vision for CKCA is to continue to lead a Christ-centered school that not only teaches a rigorous academic curriculum, but provides a Biblical worldview in every subject and area of instruction. With my school counseling background, I would also like to incorporate more social, emotional and character development lessons,” said Pruter. “This would allow students who complete the CKCA curriculum to be academically, spiritually, socially and emotionally equipped to transfer and successfully transition to whatever high school they choose to attend.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686159146590.jpeg" alt="Former Principal and School Administrator Dottie Dozier, serving CKCA for over 9 years, poses with incoming Principal and School Administrator Sherry Pruter, who took over the role in summer 2023." />
 <figcaption>Former Principal and School Administrator Dottie Dozier, serving CKCA for over 9 years, poses with incoming Principal and School Administrator Sherry Pruter, who took over the role in summer 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>Central Kansas Christian Academy (CKCA), a K-8th grade Christian school in Great Bend, is pleased to announce the hiring of a new school Principal and School Administrator, Sherry Pruter. “I am excited to work with a Christian staff and help our students to understand not only the importance of a good education, but even more important are the values and Christian principles that they learn here at CKCA,” said Pruter. “My long-range vision is to have CKCA accredited as a K-12 building.”Pruter has nearly three decades of experience in education, as she taught for 16 years between the Great Bend and Nickerson school districts. After that, she spent the last 13 years as a school counselor in Lyons and Larned. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from McPherson College and a Master’s Degree from Fort Hays State University before earning a certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in 2015 and then clinical Licensure in 2018 (LCPC). Additionally, while working as a counselor, she also worked as a part time therapist at Healing Hearts Ranch &amp; HHR Therapeutic Service, LLC from 2014-2022 until the agency closed. Recently she also received her Administrative Certification through Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).“My vision for CKCA is to continue to lead a Christ-centered school that not only teaches a rigorous academic curriculum, but provides a Biblical worldview in every subject and area of instruction. With my school counseling background, I would also like to incorporate more social, emotional and character development lessons,” said Pruter. “This would allow students who complete the CKCA curriculum to be academically, spiritually, socially and emotionally equipped to transfer and successfully transition to whatever high school they choose to attend.”Pruter will continue onboarding throughout the summer, preparing for the upcoming 2023/2024 school year. She will be handling the day-to-day operations of the school and providing leadership and communication with staff, parents and students. Additional responsibilities include public relations, academic oversight, administrative and operational management, and serving as a liaison between staff, parents, board members and teachers.Outside of work, Pruter enjoys reading, biking and family gatherings. She also enjoys spending time with her grandchildren. Sherry lives outside of Great Bend with her husband, Dale.Anyone interested in learning more about CKCA or enrolling their child (K-8) for the 2023/2024 school year can visit www.ckcacademy.com to learn more, or they may contact the school office weekdays when school is in session: 620-792-3477 or office@ckcacademy.com. During the summer, callers may leave a message and their call will be returned. CKCA will host their annual come-and-go Enrollment Day on Aug. 3. Central Kansas Christian Academy also has a Facebook page for followers to keep up with school news and events.

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