Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 62. North wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Friday Night A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. North northeast wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Saturday A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. North northeast wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Saturday Night Showers likely, with thunderstorms also possible after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Sunday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 75.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.

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

Wednesday A 40 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 62. North wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Friday Night A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. North northeast wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Saturday A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. North northeast wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Saturday Night Showers likely, with thunderstorms also possible after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Sunday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.Monday Sunny, with a high near 75.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.Tuesday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50.Wednesday A 40 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Underpaid for years, Kansas legislators finally received a substantial pay increase this year.&nbsp; Instead of a paltry per diem (per day) allowance, they now receive $43,000 per year and remain eligible for KPERS benefits.

Normally, I would argue in favor of this. It takes courage for legislators to raise their own pay and then sit for re-election before collecting it.&nbsp; As per the state constitution, there is no other way to do this—not even to keep up with inflation—and constituents hate it, often believing their representatives (or more accurately, the representatives from&nbsp;other&nbsp;districts) to be undeserving.&nbsp; Yet political science research has shown for decades that professional legislatures produce better legislation, less likely to cause problems or be overturned in court. During session, legislators work far in excess of 40 hours per week, and it takes years to learn the ins and outs of complicated policies such as the state budget.&nbsp;&nbsp;

That said, with the hefty pay increase, one might think that the legislators would also lengthen the session.&nbsp; The Late KU Professor Burdett Loomis documented the cost of the Kansas Legislature’s short, rushed sessions all the way back in 1994.&nbsp; Loomis wrote at length about the frantic, sleep-deprived, late-night sessions in which the Legislature would cobble together budgets at the last minute.&nbsp; Each succeeding year, they would vow to pass a budget earlier—and then do the same thing again.&nbsp; In 2012, Representative Bob Bethell fell asleep driving home after the end of the session, crashed his car, and died.

Now the legislators finally make decent pay.&nbsp; So, why the super-short session this year?&nbsp; They rushed the budget through so quickly that they did not even allow time for the next round of budget estimates, which may make their numbers particularly inaccurate and require fixing later. The legislators were in such a rush, they held bulk line-item veto overrides, not taking the time to review Governor Kelly’s proposed spending cuts one at a time.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, the only plausible reason for this crazy hurry is the leadership’s desire to ram through policies without allowing time for discussion, deliberation, or debate.&nbsp; As shown during recent town hall meetings for Senator Roger Marshall and other members of Congress, public feedback can get raucous, particularly when programs, policies, or benefits that make a real difference in people’s lives are threatened.&nbsp; Constituents deserve to have a voice, and if what they say is hard to hear, well, that’s why we pay you the big bucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Granted--and in stark contrast with the current circus in Washington, DC--the Kansas budget this year was largely an incrementalist one, making only small, mostly upward changes to state appropriations.&nbsp; But some major “hot button” legislation passed, including a ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, a ban on gender-affirming medical care for Transgender youth, and some additional tax cuts on top of the huge one passed last year. This threatens to put the state into a $461 million shortfall by 2028. &nbsp; Constituents may want to talk about this, but whoops, the session’s already over!&nbsp; It should also be noted that the legislators shortened their session primarily by cutting the so-called “breaks.”&nbsp; These are—or&nbsp;were—the days they would go home and listen to constituents, before heading back to Topeka to finish their work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As a political scientist, I strongly support building up the institutional capacity of state legislatures, including pay. But is it too much to ask for better service in exchange for the higher pay?&nbsp; With their frantic session this year, the Kansas Legislature failed to hold up their end of the deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt="written by: Michael A. Smith, professor of political science at Emporia State University" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michael A. Smith, professor of political science at Emporia State University</figcaption>
 </figure>Underpaid for years, Kansas legislators finally received a substantial pay increase this year.&nbsp; Instead of a paltry per diem (per day) allowance, they now receive $43,000 per year and remain eligible for KPERS benefits.Normally, I would argue in favor of this. It takes courage for legislators to raise their own pay and then sit for re-election before collecting it.&nbsp; As per the state constitution, there is no other way to do this—not even to keep up with inflation—and constituents hate it, often believing their representatives (or more accurately, the representatives from&nbsp;other&nbsp;districts) to be undeserving.&nbsp; Yet political science research has shown for decades that professional legislatures produce better legislation, less likely to cause problems or be overturned in court. During session, legislators work far in excess of 40 hours per week, and it takes years to learn the ins and outs of complicated policies such as the state budget.&nbsp;&nbsp;That said, with the hefty pay increase, one might think that the legislators would also lengthen the session.&nbsp; The Late KU Professor Burdett Loomis documented the cost of the Kansas Legislature’s short, rushed sessions all the way back in 1994.&nbsp; Loomis wrote at length about the frantic, sleep-deprived, late-night sessions in which the Legislature would cobble together budgets at the last minute.&nbsp; Each succeeding year, they would vow to pass a budget earlier—and then do the same thing again.&nbsp; In 2012, Representative Bob Bethell fell asleep driving home after the end of the session, crashed his car, and died.Now the legislators finally make decent pay.&nbsp; So, why the super-short session this year?&nbsp; They rushed the budget through so quickly that they did not even allow time for the next round of budget estimates, which may make their numbers particularly inaccurate and require fixing later. The legislators were in such a rush, they held bulk line-item veto overrides, not taking the time to review Governor Kelly’s proposed spending cuts one at a time.&nbsp;Unfortunately, the only plausible reason for this crazy hurry is the leadership’s desire to ram through policies without allowing time for discussion, deliberation, or debate.&nbsp; As shown during recent town hall meetings for Senator Roger Marshall and other members of Congress, public feedback can get raucous, particularly when programs, policies, or benefits that make a real difference in people’s lives are threatened.&nbsp; Constituents deserve to have a voice, and if what they say is hard to hear, well, that’s why we pay you the big bucks.&nbsp;&nbsp;Granted--and in stark contrast with the current circus in Washington, DC--the Kansas budget this year was largely an incrementalist one, making only small, mostly upward changes to state appropriations.&nbsp; But some major “hot button” legislation passed, including a ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, a ban on gender-affirming medical care for Transgender youth, and some additional tax cuts on top of the huge one passed last year. This threatens to put the state into a $461 million shortfall by 2028. &nbsp; Constituents may want to talk about this, but whoops, the session’s already over!&nbsp; It should also be noted that the legislators shortened their session primarily by cutting the so-called “breaks.”&nbsp; These are—or&nbsp;were—the days they would go home and listen to constituents, before heading back to Topeka to finish their work.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a political scientist, I strongly support building up the institutional capacity of state legislatures, including pay. But is it too much to ask for better service in exchange for the higher pay?&nbsp; With their frantic session this year, the Kansas Legislature failed to hold up their end of the deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Insight Kansas: What’s your hurry, Kansas legislators?

Volatile grain markets may provide Kansas farmers and agribusiness with the opportunity to price 2025 crops at or above breakeven costs. These monthly webinars will help Kansas farmers develop effective 2025 grain marketing plans for Kansas crops.

These webinars will be presented by Daniel O’Brien from Kansas State University and Mark Nelson from Kansas Farm Bureau. They look at factors driving current grain markets in 2025, as well as pricing opportunities and strategies.

The next monthly “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing Webinar will be held April 28, 2025, 12 noon central time. Via zoom, no fee, but registration required.

(If you are unable to attend the live meeting zoom webinar, a recording of the presentations will be available the following day).

You can also view January, February, and March “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing webinars. To register go to www.agmanager.info

It only takes a minute to register and K-State Research &amp; Extension does not and cannot share your registration information.

If you would like to subscribe to the K-State Research &amp; Extension Agricultural Economics – AgManager web site which sends out a weekly email of upcoming events, workshops, and conferences. And there is much more information on farm and ranch management and economics, crop and livestock budgets, farm bill and crop insurance information, interactive crop basis tool, grain marketing, livestock marketing, and many decision tools/spreadsheets available, etc. Go to www.agmanager.info in the upper right corner click onto the register link. It is also accessible via Facebook and X.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Volatile grain markets may provide Kansas farmers and agribusiness with the opportunity to price 2025 crops at or above breakeven costs. These monthly webinars will help Kansas farmers develop effective 2025 grain marketing plans for Kansas crops.These webinars will be presented by Daniel O’Brien from Kansas State University and Mark Nelson from Kansas Farm Bureau. They look at factors driving current grain markets in 2025, as well as pricing opportunities and strategies.The next monthly “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing Webinar will be held April 28, 2025, 12 noon central time. Via zoom, no fee, but registration required.(If you are unable to attend the live meeting zoom webinar, a recording of the presentations will be available the following day).You can also view January, February, and March “Winning the Game” Grain Marketing webinars. To register go to www.agmanager.infoIt only takes a minute to register and K-State Research &amp; Extension does not and cannot share your registration information.If you would like to subscribe to the K-State Research &amp; Extension Agricultural Economics – AgManager web site which sends out a weekly email of upcoming events, workshops, and conferences. And there is much more information on farm and ranch management and economics, crop and livestock budgets, farm bill and crop insurance information, interactive crop basis tool, grain marketing, livestock marketing, and many decision tools/spreadsheets available, etc. Go to www.agmanager.info in the upper right corner click onto the register link. It is also accessible via Facebook and X.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: 'Winning the Game' grain marketing webinars

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is funded through membership dues,
sponsorships and attendance to events. That revenue sustains the Chamber’s current
operations, but the Chamber is seeking to offer more. 

Chamber CEO Megan
Barfield said through help from the Board of Directors and several committees, the
Chamber is embarking on a five-year strategic plan, named “<a href="https://www.greatbend.org/_files/ugd/3a8450_e4cba1a69da04c6a8c2ed2c246010549.pdf">Elevate GBK Beyond
Today</a>,” to focus on five areas.

"We're working on what does that implementation look like," said Barfield. "What do we need? What staff do we need? That's been keeping us pretty busy because there is a lot of planning that goes into that. What's exciting about this strategic plan is it's giving us a road map and vision for the direction to go in the next five years."

The five areas of focus include workforce development, business and people
retention, membership development, business and community marketing and
business advocacy. 

With regards to workforce, Barfield said transportation has
been brought up as an area for improvement.


"You don't think of there being an issue in Great Bend, Kansas with transportation, but how many people do you see walking to work?," said Barfield. "That impacts our workforce. We don't have a large population so we need to plug in everyone we can. What are their barriers? Transportation is one."

Along with the strategic plan comes a pledge to raise $1 million to help fund
new initiatives. As of last week, Barfield said there was more than $760,000
raised and more than 30 individual and business investors.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744057041956.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is funded through membership dues,
sponsorships and attendance to events. That revenue sustains the Chamber’s current
operations, but the Chamber is seeking to offer more. Chamber CEO Megan
Barfield said through help from the Board of Directors and several committees, the
Chamber is embarking on a five-year strategic plan, named “<a href="https://www.greatbend.org/_files/ugd/3a8450_e4cba1a69da04c6a8c2ed2c246010549.pdf">Elevate GBK Beyond
Today</a>,” to focus on five areas.
"We're working on what does that implementation look like," said Barfield. "What do we need? What staff do we need? That's been keeping us pretty busy because there is a lot of planning that goes into that. What's exciting about this strategic plan is it's giving us a road map and vision for the direction to go in the next five years."The five areas of focus include workforce development, business and people
retention, membership development, business and community marketing and
business advocacy. With regards to workforce, Barfield said transportation has
been brought up as an area for improvement.
"You don't think of there being an issue in Great Bend, Kansas with transportation, but how many people do you see walking to work?," said Barfield. "That impacts our workforce. We don't have a large population so we need to plug in everyone we can. What are their barriers? Transportation is one."Along with the strategic plan comes a pledge to raise $1 million to help fund
new initiatives. As of last week, Barfield said there was more than $760,000
raised and more than 30 individual and business investors.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Five-year strategic plan to grow Great Bend Chamber’s reach

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/16)

At 4:05 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at N. Highway 281
&amp; NE 100 Road in Hoisington.

At 4:28 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 169 on
NW K-96 Highway.

At 10:49 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 4700
block of Railroad Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/16)

At 2:52 a.m. loud music was reported at 1439 10th
Street.

At 11:33 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2701
Coronado Avenue.

At 4:54 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3607 10th
Street.

At 7:09 p.m. Shawna Turner reported an accident at 18th
&amp; Polk.

At 8:05 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 8th
&amp; Macarthur Road.

At 8:11 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1411 Broadway.

At 9:09 p.m. an accident was reported at 3929 10th
Street.

At 11:29 p.m. loud music was reported at 3rd
&amp; Hickory.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/16)Traffic ArrestAt 4:05 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at N. Highway 281
&amp; NE 100 Road in Hoisington.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:28 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 169 on
NW K-96 Highway.Traffic ArrestAt 10:49 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 4700
block of Railroad Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/16)Noise ComplaintAt 2:52 a.m. loud music was reported at 1439 10th
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 11:33 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2701
Coronado Avenue.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 4:54 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3607 10th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:09 p.m. Shawna Turner reported an accident at 18th
&amp; Polk.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 8:05 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 8th
&amp; Macarthur Road.Falls At 8:11 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1411 Broadway.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:09 p.m. an accident was reported at 3929 10th
Street.Noise ComplaintAt 11:29 p.m. loud music was reported at 3rd
&amp; Hickory.

Cop Shop (4/16)

BOOKED: Starla A. Willenberg on Barton County District Court warrant for violation of a PFA, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Ryan Lang on Great Bend Municipal Court case for criminal trespass and interference with a LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S. Barton County District Court case for battery LEO, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Margarito Huitron-Garcia on Barton County District Court case for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without a driver's license, and no proof of insurance, bond is set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Starla A. Willenberg on BCDC warrant for violation of a PFA after posting the $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586549258879.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Starla A. Willenberg on Barton County District Court warrant for violation of a PFA, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Ryan Lang on Great Bend Municipal Court case for criminal trespass and interference with a LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S. Barton County District Court case for battery LEO, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Margarito Huitron-Garcia on Barton County District Court case for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without a driver's license, and no proof of insurance, bond is set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Starla A. Willenberg on BCDC warrant for violation of a PFA after posting the $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/16)

Barton Community College will be closed April 18 and April 21 for Easter break. Barton's Center for Adult Education and the Shafer Art Gallery will also be closed. The college's regular class schedule and office hours will resume April 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730221466843.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton Community College will be closed April 18 and April 21 for Easter break. Barton's Center for Adult Education and the Shafer Art Gallery will also be closed. The college's regular class schedule and office hours will resume April 22.

Barton Community College to close for Easter break

When USD 428 Director of Teaching and Learning JoAnn Blevins went to the
National Homeless Education Conference in November, she had the opportunity to
learn about the Soles4Souls program. The organization partners with schools
across the United States to get new athletic shoes to children who are experiencing
homelessness. 

After reaching out to bring the initiative to the Great Bend
school district, Blevins heard back from Soles4Souls in March.


"They get a lot of requests," said Blevins. "I thought I would put my name out there and see what happens. They got back to us, and we have started a partnership with them."

USD 428 will receive 50 pairs of name-brand shoes and socks, varying in sizes,
to be distributed to students. Blevins said the shoes will first go to children
with a McKinney-Vento status. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a
federal law that ensures homeless children and youth have equal access to
education.


"The only ask that they have is that we collect impact stories," said Blevins. "That could be the survey they have that families can fill out about their experience, students drawing a picture or writing a note. They share those with donors. That also gives them a chance to see the impact of that donation."

Along with increasing the students’ confidence, getting new shoes can result in
children attending school more regularly and becoming more physically active.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666872543590.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen USD 428 Director of Teaching and Learning JoAnn Blevins went to the
National Homeless Education Conference in November, she had the opportunity to
learn about the Soles4Souls program. The organization partners with schools
across the United States to get new athletic shoes to children who are experiencing
homelessness. After reaching out to bring the initiative to the Great Bend
school district, Blevins heard back from Soles4Souls in March.
"They get a lot of requests," said Blevins. "I thought I would put my name out there and see what happens. They got back to us, and we have started a partnership with them."USD 428 will receive 50 pairs of name-brand shoes and socks, varying in sizes,
to be distributed to students. Blevins said the shoes will first go to children
with a McKinney-Vento status. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a
federal law that ensures homeless children and youth have equal access to
education.
"The only ask that they have is that we collect impact stories," said Blevins. "That could be the survey they have that families can fill out about their experience, students drawing a picture or writing a note. They share those with donors. That also gives them a chance to see the impact of that donation."Along with increasing the students’ confidence, getting new shoes can result in
children attending school more regularly and becoming more physically active.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 428 Great Bend to receive 50 pairs of shoes for those in need

Hear this month's Cheyenne Bottoms show with Eagle Media's Steve Webster and Area Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner that aired April 16, 2025.

The Cheyenne Bottoms Show airs the third Wednesday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this month's Cheyenne Bottoms show with Eagle Media's Steve Webster and Area Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner that aired April 16, 2025.<div><iframe title="Cheyenne Bottoms show: Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner" 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=9m5fm-1881c41-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 Cheyenne Bottoms Show airs the third Wednesday of every month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Wagner

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a southwest wind 13 to 18 mph increasing to 19 to 24 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 37 mph.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 47. Breezy, with a southwest wind 16 to 21 mph becoming north northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.

Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 64. North wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Friday Night A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. North northeast wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Saturday A 20 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54.

Saturday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Sunday A 50 percent chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 60.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 39.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 76.

Monday Night A 30 percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 50.

Tuesday A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.

Tuesday Night A 40 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 47.

Wednesday A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a southwest wind 13 to 18 mph increasing to 19 to 24 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 37 mph.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 47. Breezy, with a southwest wind 16 to 21 mph becoming north northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 64. North wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Friday Night A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. North northeast wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Saturday A 20 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54.Saturday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Sunday A 50 percent chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 60.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 39.Monday Sunny, with a high near 76.Monday Night A 30 percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 50.Tuesday A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.Tuesday Night A 40 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 47.Wednesday A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

PAWNEE COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Pawnee County.

The patrol reported a vehicle was westbound on U.S. Highway 56 five miles west of Garfield. 

The vehicle traveled onto the north shoulder, into a ditch, struck a dirt embankment and rolled end over end before coming to rest in the ditch.

The Patrol reported no additional details late Wednesday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744855532893.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Pawnee County.The patrol reported a vehicle was westbound on U.S. Highway 56 five miles west of Garfield. The vehicle traveled onto the north shoulder, into a ditch, struck a dirt embankment and rolled end over end before coming to rest in the ditch.The Patrol reported no additional details late Wednesday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

KHP investigating fatal rollover crash

Princess Tea Party at Hoisington library April 26

Barton County Administrator Matt Patzner told the Commission on Tuesday
that the county continues to be a funding source for projects benefitting the
economic development of the entirety of the county. 

The Commission approved the
Hidden Hills Estates subdivision plat in Claflin last month, and were asked to
purchase needed culverts for the housing development. Commissioner Duane Reif
felt the move was a win for all parties.


"This is going to benefit Clafin and Barton County," said Reif. "This will help keep their grocery store open and their schools busy. It's really a boom for Clafin, so I don't know how we could not consider helping."

The planned development touches the northwest corner of Claflin and covers
between 70 to 90 acres. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said the project will
include 14 lots for new homes.


"What this economic development money is going toward is a development north of Claflin," said Hutchinson. "There are only two ways to lower property taxes. That's either cut from the budget and services provided to our citizens or grow. I'd like to think we're doing both lowering taxes and growing.&nbsp; This is an example of that."

The Commission approved the purchase of $29,440.80 for culverts from J&amp;J Drainage
Products Co., based in Hutchinson.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744743680396.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostBarton County Administrator Matt Patzner told the Commission on Tuesday
that the county continues to be a funding source for projects benefitting the
economic development of the entirety of the county. The Commission approved the
Hidden Hills Estates subdivision plat in Claflin last month, and were asked to
purchase needed culverts for the housing development. Commissioner Duane Reif
felt the move was a win for all parties.
"This is going to benefit Clafin and Barton County," said Reif. "This will help keep their grocery store open and their schools busy. It's really a boom for Clafin, so I don't know how we could not consider helping."The planned development touches the northwest corner of Claflin and covers
between 70 to 90 acres. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said the project will
include 14 lots for new homes.
"What this economic development money is going toward is a development north of Claflin," said Hutchinson. "There are only two ways to lower property taxes. That's either cut from the budget and services provided to our citizens or grow. I'd like to think we're doing both lowering taxes and growing.&nbsp; This is an example of that."The Commission approved the purchase of $29,440.80 for culverts from J&amp;J Drainage
Products Co., based in Hutchinson.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Commission approves buying culverts for Claflin development

Tracie Betz, an early childhood special education preschool teacher at Quinter Elementary School, Quinter USD 293, and Tranda Strnad, art teacher at Republic County High School, Republic County USD 109, were named Region 1 finalists for the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) award program during a ceremony on Saturday, April 12.

This award recognizes excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. The KTOY Region 1 awards banquet took place at Tony’s Pizza Event Center, in Salina.

As finalists for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction, Betz and Strnad each will receive a $2,000 cash award from Security Benefit, the major corporate partner for the KTOY program. In addition, they are each now eligible to be named Kansas Teacher of the Year, which will be announced during a ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 20, in Wichita.

Betz and Strnad were among six KTOY semifinalists from Region 1, which covers Kansas’s 1st U.S. congressional district.

The other Region 1 KTOY semifinalists are Whitney George, fourth grade teacher at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383; Katherine Jimenez, a music teacher at Hugoton Elementary School, Hugoton USD 210; Mandy Burger, family and consumer science teacher at Ellsworth High School, Ellsworth USD 327; and Mark Shera Cruz, a physics, human antimony and physiology teacher at Garden City High School, Garden City USD 457.

Each of the semifinalists will receive a red marble apple with a wooden base, compliments of The Master Teacher in Manhattan.

This year, 136 educators across the state were nominated for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction.

Nominations are made in each of the four regions in the state. The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), sponsor of the KTOY program, appoints regional selection panels comprised of teachers, education administrators and business representatives to select semifinalists and finalists from each region.

Each panel selects six semifinalists - three elementary teachers and three secondary teachers. From those semifinalists, the panel in each region then selects one elementary finalist and one secondary finalist. The Kansas Teacher of the Year is selected from among the state’s eight regional finalists.

The mission of the KTOY program is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance and the teaching profession.

Members of the Kansas Teacher of the Year team, comprised of the Teacher of the Year and regional finalists, serve as ambassadors for education in Kansas, making public appearances across the state to promote education and the teaching profession.

The individual selected as the Kansas Teacher of the Year is eligible for selection as the National Teacher of the Year.

Tracie Betz, an early childhood special education preschool teacher at Quinter Elementary School, Quinter USD 293, and Tranda Strnad, art teacher at Republic County High School, Republic County USD 109, were named Region 1 finalists for the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) award program during a ceremony on Saturday, April 12.This award recognizes excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. The KTOY Region 1 awards banquet took place at Tony’s Pizza Event Center, in Salina.As finalists for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction, Betz and Strnad each will receive a $2,000 cash award from Security Benefit, the major corporate partner for the KTOY program. In addition, they are each now eligible to be named Kansas Teacher of the Year, which will be announced during a ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 20, in Wichita.Betz and Strnad were among six KTOY semifinalists from Region 1, which covers Kansas’s 1st U.S. congressional district.The other Region 1 KTOY semifinalists are Whitney George, fourth grade teacher at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383; Katherine Jimenez, a music teacher at Hugoton Elementary School, Hugoton USD 210; Mandy Burger, family and consumer science teacher at Ellsworth High School, Ellsworth USD 327; and Mark Shera Cruz, a physics, human antimony and physiology teacher at Garden City High School, Garden City USD 457.Each of the semifinalists will receive a red marble apple with a wooden base, compliments of The Master Teacher in Manhattan.This year, 136 educators across the state were nominated for the Kansas Teacher of the Year distinction.Nominations are made in each of the four regions in the state. The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), sponsor of the KTOY program, appoints regional selection panels comprised of teachers, education administrators and business representatives to select semifinalists and finalists from each region.Each panel selects six semifinalists - three elementary teachers and three secondary teachers. From those semifinalists, the panel in each region then selects one elementary finalist and one secondary finalist. The Kansas Teacher of the Year is selected from among the state’s eight regional finalists.The mission of the KTOY program is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance and the teaching profession.Members of the Kansas Teacher of the Year team, comprised of the Teacher of the Year and regional finalists, serve as ambassadors for education in Kansas, making public appearances across the state to promote education and the teaching profession.The individual selected as the Kansas Teacher of the Year is eligible for selection as the National Teacher of the Year.

Ellsworth teacher named semifinalist for KS Teacher of the Year

Barton Community College continues to prioritize student well-being through its mental health services, a commitment recently recognized as Director of Counseling Services Jacquelyn “Jakki” Maser received the Kansas Counseling Association’s (KCA) Counselor of the Year award.

This award celebrates outstanding contributions to mental healthcare in higher education. Maser has worked in mental health for 19 years and has led Barton’s Cougar Counseling &amp; Psychological Services for over a decade.

“Nobody goes into this field for the awards,” she said. “We go into this field because we want to influence positive change in the lives of others.”

Cougar Counseling provides confidential and free mental health support for all Barton students who may experience stress, anxiety, depression, academic pressures, or need help with relationships or personal growth. Canine-assisted therapy is also available with the help of Luna, a trained therapy dog.

“I find it so inspiring to observe the process of discovery and personal growth that students go through in their college journey,” she said. “Through the fortitude of those I have the honor to work with, I am continually reminded of the ability we have to overcome challenges, create meaning, change narratives, and carve out our own futures.”

Barton’s services are unique to the specific challenges facing college students. They are focused not only on individuals but also on campus-wide mental wellness programming and fostering a culture of wellness across the student population.

“This award reaffirms that the ripple effect of the efforts being made to promote mental wellness, individually and collectively, is being seen and felt on campus and in the wider world,” she said. “This inspires me to continue doing the work that I do and fills me with renewed faith that each and every one of us has the ability to make a difference in our own lives and in the lives of others.”

As Barton observes National Community College Month this April, the recent recognition of Maser as Counselor of the Year serves as a powerful reminder of the impact community colleges have in supporting student success, both academically and emotionally.

Students and families seeking support can access Cougar Counseling &amp; Psychological Services in person at the Barton County campus or online. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bartonccc.edu/supportservices/counseling">www.bartonccc.edu/supportservices/counseling</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744656600834.jpeg" alt="Jacquelyn “Jakki” Maser, Director of Counseling Services at Barton Community College, poses with Luna, the campus therapy dog. Maser was recently named Counselor of the Year by the Kansas Counseling Association for her leadership in providing compassionate mental health services to students." />
 <figcaption>Jacquelyn “Jakki” Maser, Director of Counseling Services at Barton Community College, poses with Luna, the campus therapy dog. Maser was recently named Counselor of the Year by the Kansas Counseling Association for her leadership in providing compassionate mental health services to students.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie HarrisBarton Community College continues to prioritize student well-being through its mental health services, a commitment recently recognized as Director of Counseling Services Jacquelyn “Jakki” Maser received the Kansas Counseling Association’s (KCA) Counselor of the Year award.This award celebrates outstanding contributions to mental healthcare in higher education. Maser has worked in mental health for 19 years and has led Barton’s Cougar Counseling &amp; Psychological Services for over a decade.“Nobody goes into this field for the awards,” she said. “We go into this field because we want to influence positive change in the lives of others.”Cougar Counseling provides confidential and free mental health support for all Barton students who may experience stress, anxiety, depression, academic pressures, or need help with relationships or personal growth. Canine-assisted therapy is also available with the help of Luna, a trained therapy dog.“I find it so inspiring to observe the process of discovery and personal growth that students go through in their college journey,” she said. “Through the fortitude of those I have the honor to work with, I am continually reminded of the ability we have to overcome challenges, create meaning, change narratives, and carve out our own futures.”Barton’s services are unique to the specific challenges facing college students. They are focused not only on individuals but also on campus-wide mental wellness programming and fostering a culture of wellness across the student population.“This award reaffirms that the ripple effect of the efforts being made to promote mental wellness, individually and collectively, is being seen and felt on campus and in the wider world,” she said. “This inspires me to continue doing the work that I do and fills me with renewed faith that each and every one of us has the ability to make a difference in our own lives and in the lives of others.”As Barton observes National Community College Month this April, the recent recognition of Maser as Counselor of the Year serves as a powerful reminder of the impact community colleges have in supporting student success, both academically and emotionally.Students and families seeking support can access Cougar Counseling &amp; Psychological Services in person at the Barton County campus or online. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bartonccc.edu/supportservices/counseling">www.bartonccc.edu/supportservices/counseling</a>.

Mental health services at Barton CC thrive under award-winning leadership

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/15)

At 2:41 a.m. chest pain was reported at 81 SW 10 Avenue.

At 8:48 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 365 SE 50
Road in Ellinwood.

At 10 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 250 S. Main
Street in Hoisington.

At 12:41 p.m. a fire was reported at 337 SE 80 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 5:11 p.m. a theft was reported at 20 SE 20 Road.

At 5:17 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 487 SE 60
Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 8:33 p.m. an accident was reported at SW 10 Avenue &amp;
Railroad Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/15)

At 2 a.m. Lorreta Howard reported loud music at 1439 10th
Street.

At 8:44 a.m. a theft of a vehicle hood emblem was reported
at 5926 Eisenhower.

At 9:30 a.m. a theft from Walmart, 3503 10th
Street, was reported.

At 10:44 a.m. a parking complaint was reported at 909 Stone.

At 12:55 p.m. officers responded to criminal damage at 3713
22nd Street.

At 3:09 p.m. officers responded to an accident at McDonald’s,
3307 10th Street.

At 5:19 p.m. Ryan Lang was arrested for criminal trespass
and interference with LEO at 2337 Washington.

At 5:27 p.m. a possible burglary was reported at 2432
Cheyenne Dr. Subjects were allowed to be in the residence.

At 5:36 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1615 16th
Street.

At 6:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

At 7:51 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5512 Eisenhower.

At 10:26 p.m. loud music was reported at 11th
&amp; Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/15)Chest PainAt 2:41 a.m. chest pain was reported at 81 SW 10 Avenue.Traumatic InjuriesAt 8:48 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 365 SE 50
Road in Ellinwood.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 10 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 250 S. Main
Street in Hoisington.FireAt 12:41 p.m. a fire was reported at 337 SE 80 Avenue in Ellinwood.TheftAt 5:11 p.m. a theft was reported at 20 SE 20 Road.Animal ComplaintAt 5:17 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 487 SE 60
Avenue in Ellinwood.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:33 p.m. an accident was reported at SW 10 Avenue &amp;
Railroad Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/15)Noise ComplaintAt 2 a.m. Lorreta Howard reported loud music at 1439 10th
Street.Criminal DamageAt 8:44 a.m. a theft of a vehicle hood emblem was reported
at 5926 Eisenhower.TheftAt 9:30 a.m. a theft from Walmart, 3503 10th
Street, was reported.Parking ComplaintAt 10:44 a.m. a parking complaint was reported at 909 Stone.Criminal DamageAt 12:55 p.m. officers responded to criminal damage at 3713
22nd Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:09 p.m. officers responded to an accident at McDonald’s,
3307 10th Street.Trespassing / CriminalAt 5:19 p.m. Ryan Lang was arrested for criminal trespass
and interference with LEO at 2337 Washington.Burglary / In ProgressAt 5:27 p.m. a possible burglary was reported at 2432
Cheyenne Dr. Subjects were allowed to be in the residence.Sick PersonAt 5:36 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1615 16th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.Unconscious / FaintingAt 7:51 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5512 Eisenhower.Noise ComplaintAt 10:26 p.m. loud music was reported at 11th
&amp; Washington.

Cop Shop (4/15)

Hear this week's Cougar Pause show with Eagle Media's Shannon Stafford-Towns and Barton Community College Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs that aired April 14, 2025.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's Cougar Pause show with Eagle Media's Shannon Stafford-Towns and Barton Community College Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs that aired April 14, 2025.<div><iframe title="Cougar Pause: Barton Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs" 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=4n9xw-1881667-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Barton CC Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs

BOOKED: Brandon K. Leon on Barton County District Court warrant for probation violation, no bond.

BOOKED: Elvis Garcia on Barton County District Court case for criminal damage to property with a $5,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Oscar G. Rodriguez-Arauz on Great Bend Police Department case for driving under the influence, no vehicle liability insurance, expired/illegal registration, and failure to use turn signal to immigration and customs enforcement.

RELEASED: Elvis Garcia on BCDC case for criminal damage to property with a surety bond of $5,000 through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586549258879.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Brandon K. Leon on Barton County District Court warrant for probation violation, no bond.BOOKED: Elvis Garcia on Barton County District Court case for criminal damage to property with a $5,000 C/S.RELEASED: Oscar G. Rodriguez-Arauz on Great Bend Police Department case for driving under the influence, no vehicle liability insurance, expired/illegal registration, and failure to use turn signal to immigration and customs enforcement.RELEASED: Elvis Garcia on BCDC case for criminal damage to property with a surety bond of $5,000 through Around the Clock Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/15)

Trenton Horn will be interviewing for the position of superintendent with the USD 431 Board of Education on Thursday, April 17. Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online community survey utilized during the search process.&nbsp;

Horn is currently serving as superintendent for USD 452 Stanton County Schools in Johnson City, Kansas. He is in his sixth year in that position. Previously, he served as a middle school principal at Chapman Middle School in Chapman, Kansas, for three years, a 7-12 building principal at Valley Heights High School in Blue Rapids, Kansas, and as an agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor at Chapman High School, Linn High School and Hanover High School.&nbsp;

The public is invited to a meet and greet with Horn on Thursday, April 17, in the Commons Area at Hoisington High School from 4 to 5 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744809981098.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Trenton Horn will be interviewing for the position of superintendent with the USD 431 Board of Education on Thursday, April 17. Candidates were selected for interviews based on their fit with desired characteristics that were developed with input from focus groups and an online community survey utilized during the search process.&nbsp;Horn is currently serving as superintendent for USD 452 Stanton County Schools in Johnson City, Kansas. He is in his sixth year in that position. Previously, he served as a middle school principal at Chapman Middle School in Chapman, Kansas, for three years, a 7-12 building principal at Valley Heights High School in Blue Rapids, Kansas, and as an agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor at Chapman High School, Linn High School and Hanover High School.&nbsp;The public is invited to a meet and greet with Horn on Thursday, April 17, in the Commons Area at Hoisington High School from 4 to 5 p.m.

Horn to interview for Hoisington superintendent job

Three veteran Fuller Industries Inc. employees are stepping into new, more significant roles at the longtime Great Bend-based commercial cleaning product manufacturer. General Manager Joe Mann said Brett Hughes is moving into a key sales leadership position, Hannah Ryan is heading up sales operations, and Cory Starr is moving up to procurement specialist.

“We congratulate Brett, Hannah and Cory on their new responsibilities,” Mann said. “We appreciate them for their hard work and commitment.”

A native of Medicine Lodge and a Hoisington resident, Hughes has been with Fuller for over 26 years, starting as a quality control chemist. Graduating from Barclay College with a business management and administration degree, he has worked at senior levels in marketing and business operations before moving into his new sales role at the company.

“As we continue on our strategic growth plan, Brett Hughes will now focus 100 percent on sales to help us increase our top line,” Mann said. “Brett’s long tenure and experience at Fuller give us an unparalleled advantage working directly with some of our most important customers.”

With Fuller since April 2023, Ryan has worn many hats - handling everything from project management and insurance claims to social media and company events. Living in Ellinwood with her loving husband and three precocious children, she has a background in banking, customer service, restaurant management and running an online boutique.

“Hannah is a multi-talented professional with a passion for organization, problem-solving, and connecting with people,” Mann said. With this change, she takes over all sales operations duties, including new product development, new customer onboarding,

specification creation/edits, labels, incoming quality control questions, customer credits, and customer requests such as samples, regulatory inquiries and pricing.

Starr, a Great Bend resident, grew up in Chase and graduated from Chase High School and the University of Kansas with a sports management degree. Before coming to Fuller, his background in procurement was in college athletics and the medical field.

“He has shown incredible growth in his year-plus of employment at Fuller, and we are excited to see how he continues to improve in the purchasing of packaging and maintenance supplies,” Mann said.

“These three have served Fuller in many roles over the years and have always performed with distinction,” Mann said. “They are the epitome of team players.”

BUSINESS NEWSThree veteran Fuller Industries Inc. employees are stepping into new, more significant roles at the longtime Great Bend-based commercial cleaning product manufacturer. General Manager Joe Mann said Brett Hughes is moving into a key sales leadership position, Hannah Ryan is heading up sales operations, and Cory Starr is moving up to procurement specialist.“We congratulate Brett, Hannah and Cory on their new responsibilities,” Mann said. “We appreciate them for their hard work and commitment.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744641360839.jpeg" alt="Brett Hughes" />
 <figcaption>Brett Hughes</figcaption>
 </figure>Brett HughesA native of Medicine Lodge and a Hoisington resident, Hughes has been with Fuller for over 26 years, starting as a quality control chemist. Graduating from Barclay College with a business management and administration degree, he has worked at senior levels in marketing and business operations before moving into his new sales role at the company.“As we continue on our strategic growth plan, Brett Hughes will now focus 100 percent on sales to help us increase our top line,” Mann said. “Brett’s long tenure and experience at Fuller give us an unparalleled advantage working directly with some of our most important customers.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744641374295.jpeg" alt="Hannah Ryan" />
 <figcaption>Hannah Ryan</figcaption>
 </figure>Hannah RyanWith Fuller since April 2023, Ryan has worn many hats - handling everything from project management and insurance claims to social media and company events. Living in Ellinwood with her loving husband and three precocious children, she has a background in banking, customer service, restaurant management and running an online boutique.“Hannah is a multi-talented professional with a passion for organization, problem-solving, and connecting with people,” Mann said. With this change, she takes over all sales operations duties, including new product development, new customer onboarding,specification creation/edits, labels, incoming quality control questions, customer credits, and customer requests such as samples, regulatory inquiries and pricing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744641347048.jpeg" alt="Cory Starr" />
 <figcaption>Cory Starr</figcaption>
 </figure>Cory StarrStarr, a Great Bend resident, grew up in Chase and graduated from Chase High School and the University of Kansas with a sports management degree. Before coming to Fuller, his background in procurement was in college athletics and the medical field.“He has shown incredible growth in his year-plus of employment at Fuller, and we are excited to see how he continues to improve in the purchasing of packaging and maintenance supplies,” Mann said.“These three have served Fuller in many roles over the years and have always performed with distinction,” Mann said. “They are the epitome of team players.”

Three longtime Fuller employees earn promotions

As the end of the school year is drawing near, USD 428 staff is preparing items for the following school year. The Great Bend school board on
Monday heard the first reading of proposed changes for the 2025-2026 student
and teacher handbooks. 

Great Bend High School Assistant Principal Kip Wilson
said for students needing to go to their vehicle during school hours, they must be
accompanied by an administrator. Wilson told school board member Jacquie Disque
he believes this will eventually slow down students from going to their cars if
they have an administrator waiting with them.


"As far as going to their car and being accompanied by an administrator, is this going to be become a problem?" asked Disque.

"I don't think it will," responded Wilson. "I think it will slow the traffic down."

"I just think you have better things to do than walk kids to their cars," said Disque. "I also understand them needing to go to the car because they forgot their homework or whatever."

Under the dress code, the new handbook prohibits head coverings. The new code
will read that hats, caps, head coverings and tails must not be worn inside the
building. While the head coverings addition mostly refers to hoods, Wilson was
asked about the possibility of wigs.


"There could possibly be a medical reason where we would have conversations and make necessary exceptions," said Wilson. "If it is artificial, I would consider that a head covering. The other thing that came up in discussion was a religious exemption, but we haven't seen any of that. A lot of this pertains to hoods."

Approval of the student and teacher handbooks will be requested at the May
school board meeting.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744733749806.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAs the end of the school year is drawing near, USD 428 staff is preparing items for the following school year. The Great Bend school board on
Monday heard the first reading of proposed changes for the 2025-2026 student
and teacher handbooks. Great Bend High School Assistant Principal Kip Wilson
said for students needing to go to their vehicle during school hours, they must be
accompanied by an administrator. Wilson told school board member Jacquie Disque
he believes this will eventually slow down students from going to their cars if
they have an administrator waiting with them.
"As far as going to their car and being accompanied by an administrator, is this going to be become a problem?" asked Disque."I don't think it will," responded Wilson. "I think it will slow the traffic down.""I just think you have better things to do than walk kids to their cars," said Disque. "I also understand them needing to go to the car because they forgot their homework or whatever."Under the dress code, the new handbook prohibits head coverings. The new code
will read that hats, caps, head coverings and tails must not be worn inside the
building. While the head coverings addition mostly refers to hoods, Wilson was
asked about the possibility of wigs.
"There could possibly be a medical reason where we would have conversations and make necessary exceptions," said Wilson. "If it is artificial, I would consider that a head covering. The other thing that came up in discussion was a religious exemption, but we haven't seen any of that. A lot of this pertains to hoods."Approval of the student and teacher handbooks will be requested at the May
school board meeting.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend student code changes, no head coverings or hoods

The K-4 Highway replacement project started this spring in Hoisington,
and city administration is asking citizens to use caution as they navigate the
construction. 

During the construction on K-4, from Center Street to Main
Street, traffic is unable to cross the highway from the north or south.
Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell said two of the three designated
crosswalks on K-4 are out of commission during the construction.


"Those crosswalks have been removed as part of this project," said Mitchell. "The only designated crosswalk is over by the Town and Country grocery store. We have youngsters and other citizens trying to cross the highway in this area. Be alert and be safe."

Along with the street replacement, the project includes the replacement of curb
and gutter and new sidewalks. The first six-week phase of the project involves
the removal and replacement of the pavement in the north 16 feet of the
roadway. The second phase includes the south 16 feet of highway and the final
phase handles the eight feet of pavement in the middle of the roadway.


The project is expected to be completed by mid-August.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742275174129.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe K-4 Highway replacement project started this spring in Hoisington,
and city administration is asking citizens to use caution as they navigate the
construction. During the construction on K-4, from Center Street to Main
Street, traffic is unable to cross the highway from the north or south.
Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell said two of the three designated
crosswalks on K-4 are out of commission during the construction.
"Those crosswalks have been removed as part of this project," said Mitchell. "The only designated crosswalk is over by the Town and Country grocery store. We have youngsters and other citizens trying to cross the highway in this area. Be alert and be safe."Along with the street replacement, the project includes the replacement of curb
and gutter and new sidewalks. The first six-week phase of the project involves
the removal and replacement of the pavement in the north 16 feet of the
roadway. The second phase includes the south 16 feet of highway and the final
phase handles the eight feet of pavement in the middle of the roadway.
The project is expected to be completed by mid-August.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

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