SOURCE Barton County
Great Bend Tribune
Great Bend Tribune Serving the Golden Belt for 148 Years
The Great Bend Tribune has been a cornerstone of the Golden Belt since 1876, and is the oldest continuous business in Great Bend, while delivering reliable and professional news coverage to its readers. As the region’s leading source of information, the Tribune prides itself on its commitment to accuracy and local relevance.
Online Access and Features
Subscribers to the Tribune can access the entire paper through its website, gbtribune.com, where they can browse current issues, search archives, and find links to top news stories, sports updates, editorials, and obituaries. Special editions like the Barton County Source cater specifically to local interests, while sections for Newspapers in Education, job listings, and classified ads offer additional community resources.
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Recognizing its role as a hub for community news, the Tribune actively encourages reader participation through its social media presence and dedicated Facebook groups such as “Great Bend Tribune”, “Great Bend Cares”, and “Great Bend Connect”. These platforms provide
Judy Duryee, Publisher jduryee@gbtribune.com
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real-time updates on news and events, fostering a dynamic interaction with the community.
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The Tribune welcomes contributions from its readership, including letters to the editor for the Public Forum, where local and national opinions are shared. Birth announcements, obituaries, wedding announcements, engagements, and anniversary notices can also be published for a nominal fee, ensuring that significant milestones are celebrated within the community.
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Tr ibune GREAT BEND
Great Bend Tribune
620-792-1211, 800-950-TRIB (8742) www.gbtribune.com 2012 Forest, Great Bend, KS 67530
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Great Bend Tribune At A Glance
Number of Employees – 18
Newspapers available for purchase at these locations:
Ampride 2302 10th St.
Casey’s .............. Great Bend, Ellinwood, Hoisington and Lar ned Dillons Great Bend and Larned
Dollar General Great Bend and Hoisington
Kwik Shop Great Bend and Larned
Walgreens 3920 10th St. Walmart 3503 10th St.
Newspaper Racks: Great Bend2012 Forest Ave. 2100 16th St. 1221 10th St. 2010 10th St.
3620 10th St. 10th & Stone St. 17th & Washington
Claflin ................ 101 Main Street
Ellinwood 210 E. Santa Fe
Hoisington 818 N. Elm
Riley Brungardt, Advertising Representative & Business News Reporter rbrungardt@gbtribune.com
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Doug Barrett, Advertising Representative dbarrett@gbtribune.com ...................................................................
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Andrew Murphy, Special Assignment Reporter & Pressman amurphy@gbtribune.com
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Pounds of ink used a year: Black ink — 1,895 Colored ink — 1,080
COUNTRYSIDE VETERINARY ASSOCIATES
William R. Niederee, D.V.M.
Sandi G. Hayek, D.V.M.
Madyson G. Werner, D.V.M.
Tired of buying the same regular gifts? Come shop our unique one-of-a-kind creations. Browse our lovely in-store selection or order a custom gift for that special person. Have you been in before? The store continues to evolve as we expand our product line
Photo submitted by Lydia Burress
We Are Barton County
Barton County, located at the geographic center of Kansas, encompasses the cities of Albert, Claflin, Ellinwood, Galatia, Great Bend, Hoisington, Olmitz, Pawnee Rock, and Susank, as well as the unincorporated towns of Beaver and Odin. The county, named in honor of Clara Barton—civil war nurse and founder of the American Red Cross—is unique in Kansas for being the only county named after a woman. When established, Barton County was designed with boundaries forming a 30-by-30-mile square.
The county boasts a variety of attractions for both residents and visitors, including museums, art galleries, sculptures, a zoo, a waterpark, historic sites, Cheyenne Bottoms, and other natural attractions. Barton County ranks as the 29th largest county in Kansas by population and the 31st by area. Its highest point, located about three miles northwest of Pawnee Rock in the southwestern part of the county, reaches an altitude of approximately 2,080 feet, while the lowest point, where Cow Creek exits the area, has an altitude of about 1,710 feet.
Agriculture, oil, manufacturing, health care, and retail trade are key economic drivers in Barton County. The area also offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, birding, and other outdoor sports. The Kansas Wetlands Education Center and the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byways contribute to the local economy as well.
Barton Community College is a significant asset to the community. Established through a public vote and opening in 1969, this two-year college provides local students with affordable higher education options close to home. The college offers a range of programs including traditional general education courses, fine and performing arts, technical training, a nursing program, GED courses, and online classes. Its athletic program has won 58 national championships, and the Shafer Memorial Art Gallery, known as the “Gem of the Campus,” houses masterpieces by artists such as Chagall, Matisse, and Picasso.
Barton County also enjoys high-quality healthcare services with three major hospitals, urgent care facilities, family health clinics, and specialty medicine groups.
Where And Who Are We?
GALATIASUSANK ODIN
Barton County is poised near the geographical center of Kansas, as well as the center of the United States. Once on the route of the famed Santa Fe Trail, it is now criss-crossed by four major highways – U.S. 56, U.S. 281, K-156 and K-4, as well as numerous railroads, making it a business and travel hub.
Located about four hours by car from Kansas City, three hours from the state Capitol in Topeka, two hours from the state’s largest city Wichita, and about an hour to an hour and a half from Hays, Salina, Hutchinson and Dodge City. There is a lot to do here, but also ideally located for day trips.
Barton County is home to a population of 25,080 residents, with 15,490 registered voters. The gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.3% of the population identifying as female and 49.7% as male. The county has 12,369 households, of which 50.2% are married couples, 25.1% are female-headed households without a spouse or partner, and 17.1% are male-headed households without a spouse or partner. The median age of residents is 38.8 years, and 95.9% of the population are U.S. citizens.
The median property value in Barton County is $99,700, and the homeownership rate stands at
67.3%. Of the 13,276 people employed in the county, significant sectors include health care and social assistance, manufacturing, and retail trade. Health coverage is quite prevalent, with 87.2% of residents having access. The county’s ethnic composition is diverse, with the largest groups being White, White Hispanic, Multi-racial, and Black/African American. The median household income is $50,077, and 14.2% of the population lives below the poverty line. For an individual, the poverty threshold is an annual income of $12,060 or less, while for a household of two, it is $16,240 or less.
GREAT BEND CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
The Great Bend Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is located inside the front of the Great Bend Events Center at 3111 10th Street. The CVB staff books and bids on big events and conventions for the Events Center and for Great Bend in general. The Events Center is designated as a Kansas Travel Information Center which partners with State Travel & Tourism, a resource for the State of Kansas tourism opportunities. Each year the city prioritizes updates to help make the Events Center better for patrons and visitors. This includes the newly renovated back area with breakout rooms, the front bathrooms were remodeled, a new security system was put in place and next steps for the Events Center include new lighting for the ballroom, landscaping for out front, new seminar tables for the breakout rooms and paving the parking lot is also on the list.
The CVB is part of Community Coordinator/CVB Director Christina Hayes’ department. CVB staff located at the office in the Events Center includes Amanda Gaddis, Visitor Services Representative & Sydney Ridgel, Customer Service Representative, and Joseph Trimmer, Maintenance staff. The CVB is 100% funded by Transient Guest Tax from hotel stays, 1% of that Transient Guest Tax helps fund the Events Center building along with revenue from events held there. The CVB represents the Great Bend City Council and strives to make the Events Center a premier event location for our area to improve the quality of life for Great Bend residents & visitors!
The staff works to promote Great Bend in various ways. Hayes’ goals include getting Great Bend’s attractions, events, fun things to do and places to stay information out to a bigger audience in the state, recruitment of new conventions, tournaments and more meetings into town. They continue to provide a hospitality program for hotels, gas stations, businesses and doctors’ offices so the front lines of our community know what’s happening in town and they can promote a positive image to those visiting here. The program is a partnership with Barton Community College called The Be Our Guest Academy in Great Bend; it is a customized customer service and attractions training to help front lines explain the great things we have here in Great Bend!
Every two years the CVB produces a new Visitor Guide for Great Bend, this is also distributed across the state to market and promote the Events Center as the premier location in this area, as they work to bring people to visit and move to our wonderful town! Pick yours up today at the Great Bend Events Center at 3111 10th Street!
Explore Explore
CVB Board Members
Chairperson:
Allene Owen, Vice Chair:
Mark Mingenback Members:
Toyia Roblyer
Lacey Scholfield
Jolene Biggs
Kyle Walters
Claudia Elsen
Krista Osborne
Cory Zimmerman
Chris Umphres
Curtis Wolf
Brooke Haulmark
Non-voting members:
Mayor Cody Schmidt
Megan Barfield
Sara Arnberger
Shawna Schafer
Christina Hayes
GREAT BEND GREAT BEND
Great Bend Economic Development’s downtown arm, Great Bend Alive is a member of the Kansas and National Main Street programs and we share these same four pillars of progress.
Our Mi ion
To impact positive change in the downtown corridor through development, design, promotion and preservation
Great Bend
From loft apartments to new boutique shops, historic downtown Great Bend is re-blooming. By promoting local businesses, improving its popular parks and expanding housing options, the community is poised for the future. At the crossroads of both Kansas and the nation as a whole, it has much to offer residents and visitors alike in terms of commerce, dining and recreation.
There are many parks and recreational areas, featuring activities from the water park, zoo, playgrounds, bicycle and walking trails, and disc golf to fishing. There is also the Great Bend Sports Complex with baseball and softball fields that are the envy of many communities.
There are numerous community-wide events as well such as an Art Walk, Cinco de Mayo, June Jaunt, Community Concerts, Summer Street Stroll, Final Fridays on Forest, and Party in the Park. The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, along with the Christmas Parade is a spectacular event. Numerous town locations have drive-through Christmas lights and Christmas light shows with music.
The community, which was named after the great bend of the Arkansas River, celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2022. Great Bend started out with deep agricultural roots and as a regional trade and service center. That role grew stronger with the oil boom, later it served as a major World War II Army Air Corps training base for B-29 bomber crews, a base that evolved into the Great Bend Municipal Airport.
The airport has a runway large enough to land Air Force One, if it was ever needed.
Great Bend is home to the Sunflower Rod and Custom Association’s historic drag strip, and was the home of the Argonne Rebels Drum and Bugle Corps. The corps achieved national fame with multiple American Legion national championships. The Rebels were one of the thirteen founding member corps of Drum Corps International. It was also the boyhood home of Jack Kilby, one of the inventors of the microchip.
At the heart of the Great Bend economy is agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. Great Bend is also fortunate to be a major hub for regional healthcare.
For those who like the outdoors, Great Bend is located next to two of the world’s most important wetlands, Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.
CITY COUNCIL
Mayor – Cody Schmidt
First Ward
Lindsey Krom-Craven – 620-639-6777
Alan Moeder – 620-793-9052
Second Ward
Kevyn Soupiset – 620-791-7082
Jolene Biggs – 620-793-3443
Third Ward
Cory Urban – 785-760-4846
Davis Jimenez – 620-282-2475
Fourth Ward
Tina Mingenback – 620-793-4111
Rickee Maddox – 620-793-4111
Council members meet at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each month in the City Council chambers at 1209 Williams. All governing body members serve two-year terms. Mayor and council members can be reached through City Hall, 1209 Williams, 620-793-4111.
CITY deparTMeNTS
City administrator
Logan Burns – 620-793-4111
City attorney Allen Glendenning – 620-793-4114
Municipal Court 620-793-4124
City Clerk/Finance director
Shawna Schafer – 620-793-4111
CVB director/Community Coordinator
Christina Hayes – 620-793-4111
Human resource director
Randy Keasling – 620-793-4111
public Lands director
Scott Keeler – 620-792-9546
public Works director
Jason Cauley – 620-793-4150
Information Technology
James Cell – 793-4111
Utility Superintendent 620-793-4100
Building Inspector
Matt Schafer – 620-793-4106
Street department
Anthony Bronson – 620-793-4150
Code enforcement Officer
Hoyt Kinsinger, Jaimie Wintholz – 620-793-4150
Water pollution Control (WpC) 620-793-4170
City Television
Channel 20
City information and current events.
U.S. post Office
2100 16th St., 620-792-4381
Zip Code 67530
GREAT BEND
Hoisington
Hoisington, although a small community of 2,699 has a lot to offer.
It has three business advocacy organizations working to develop and boost the business environment. Hoisington has a number of incentives available for growth and development for new or existing businesses.
Hoisington boasts that its students enjoy one of the best public school districts in the state of Kansas. They have excellent lodging accomodations, places of worship, three outstanding parks, a state of the art activity center, and a municipal swimming pool.
Hoisington is home to excellent medical care facilities with a hospital, surgical services, an outreach clinic, chiropractic clinics, dentists, optometrist, veterinarian, pharmacy and numerous other health related service providers.
City CounCil
Mayor — Chris Kinnman
Ward 1
Councilman — Becky Steiner
Councilman — Carrol Nather
Ward 2
Councilman — Keith Kennon
Councilman — Darren Reinert
Ward 3
Councilman — Jim Morris
Councilman — Mike Davis
Ward 4
Councilman — Aaron Braddy
Councilman — Gary Shook
Council members meet at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at Hoisington City Hall, 109 E. 1st, 620-653-4125.
City DepartMents
City Manager — Jonathan Mitchell, 620-653-4125
City Clerk — Celia Conrad, 620-653-4125
City attorney — John Horner, 620-793-7874
recreation Director — Chris Kinman, 620-653-4050
police Chief — Kenton Doze, 620-653-4995
emergency Medical service Director — Megan Elmore, 620-653-4150
animal Control
620-653-4995 or 620-653-2333
Dolores Kipper
City television
Channel 20 – City Information and Current Events
u.s. post office 119 E. Second, 620-653-2838
Zip Code 67544
Ellinwood
Ellinwood, population 2,100, provides a warm, small town environment.
Community events are a staple in Ellinwood with the annual After Harvest Festival held the third weekend in July. A parade and family friendly events are a big draw as are class reunions at that time. Then in October there is the craft beer festival and the first Sunday in December the annual Christkindlmarket is held.
Ellinwood has many outstanding features including its schools, child development center, a senior citizen center, golf course, civic clubs, doctors, clinic, EMT unit, municipal airport, churches, historic museum, and a hospital.
Ellinwood District Hospital & Clinic officially began construction of a new facility in February 2023 on their new facility west of town.
They offer 17 inpatient beds, 2 operating rooms, 1 hospice patient room and family suite, physical therapy, lab, imaging, swingbed, and an emergency room. Construction was completed and the first day opening on July 17, 2024.
The Wolf Hotel and the Dick Building are significant historic landmarks, as are the underground tunnels that run adjacent to the community’s Main Street. The underground saloon is a great place to visit.
Shopping downtown is a fun event, check out all the stores including the candle store that periodically has “pour your own” candle events. The downtown has also been active on the “brick streets” with fun ladies night out events and an art walk.
City CounCil
Mayor, Irlan Fullbright
Councilmember – Kirk Clawson
Councilmember – Ken Lebbin
Councilmember – Jon Prescott
Councilmember – Jacque Isern
Councilmember – Scott Tillotson
The Ellinwood city council meets at 7:00 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at 104 East 2nd St.
City departMents
City administrator – Chris Komarek
620-564-3161
City Clerk – Kim Schartz
620-564-3161
electrical superintendent – Jon Perron
620-564-3046
street dept. superintendent – Kevin Clair 620-564-3161
Water/Wastewater superintendent Spencer Proffitt 620-564-3046
light & power plant
Jon Perron, Electric, 620-564-3451
Jim McMullen, Power Plant 620-564-2211
animal Control Police Department 209 W. 1st, 620-564-3001
u.s. post office 299 N. Main, 620-564-2840
Zip Code 67526
Albert
ALBERT
Albert is located 15 miles northeast of Great Bend on K-96. In the 2020 census, the population was 132 but has increased since then to 163.
The community spirit is alive and well. In 2021, the city bought a new fire truck and the new post office was built.
The annual Albert Volunteer Fire Department Pancake Feed and Raffle is held every spring.
CITY COUNCIL
Mayor – Rod Cushenbery
Councilman – Stan Ewy
Councilwoman – Joann George
Councilwoman – Marty Hanhardt
Councilman – Charles Keller
Councilman – Robert Ritterhouse
The Albert city council meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at the city office, 2006 Main Street. The Albert Volunteer Fire Department then meets at 7:00 p.m.
The City of Albert mailing address is P.O. Box 10, Main St., Albert, KS 67511
City Clerk – Lois Ritterhouse 620-923-4349
Animal Control Golden Belt Humane Society 620-792-4297
U.S. Post Office 2002 Main, 620-923-4699
Zip Code 67511
Susank
The Susank area was originally called Jankeyville, after land owner Arthur Janke, prior to World War I. But when it was officially founded as a town site in December 1919, it was named Susank after a young man from the area who lost his life in World War I.
Originally a stop on a Santa Fe Railway spur, Susank became an oil town in the 1930s and ’40s, when its population is said to have reached its peak of 300400.
Today, the town has about 30 residents. Students attend school in nearby Hoisington.
A Susank Community/School Reunion is held every five years, most recently in 2023.
One of the first businesses in town was the Farmer’s Union Elevator. The grain elevator is in use today, the only Susank business as of May 2023, is operated by American Plains Co-op. The elevator underwent a $4 million renovation in 2021. An addition of two large grain bins was completed in 2022, along with a new office.
CITY COUNCIL
Mayor — Dennis Trapp
Councilman — Jeff Cotten
Councilman — Bill Luerman
Councilwoman — Jackie DeBusk
Councilman — Damon Luerman
Councilman — Rick Wilson
The Susank city council meets at 7:00 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at 127 Hoisington Road. Questions can be directed through the mayor at 620-653-2769.
CITY DEPARTMENTS
City Clerk — Patty Trapp
Treasurer — Diane Wilson
Water Superintendent — Dennis Trapp
Trash Service
Unruh Brothers Waste LLC, Great Bend, 620-796-2257
Animal Control
Golden Belt Humane Society – 620-792-4297
U.S. Post Office
Rural route from Hoisington, 620-653-2838
Fire Department
Barton County Fire Dist. 2 from Hoisington
Zip Code
67544
Claflin
Located in northeast Barton County, Claflin is just on the edge of the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Refuge. This small town offers a quaint and quiet place to live, although it still offers fun activities for families with playgrounds, tennis courts, recreational kid sports, the library, and a pool.
According to the 2020 census, Claflin had a population of 583 citizens. It continues to grow and the number is over 600 currently.
Claflin has schools K-12, churches, a golf course, and its Main Street offers retail stores, a bank, places to eat, and a furniture store. Other businesses in town include the co-op, a grocery store, health and beauty salons, and oil field businesses, just to name a few.
CLAFLIN
City Council
Mayor – Mike Urban
Councilman – Dustin Daniels
Councilman – Corey Liebl
Councilman – Robert Gunder
Councilman – Dorian Hickel
Councilman – Dan Michaelis
City Council members meet at 7:00 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the City Hall, 111 E. Hamilton. Council members can be contacted through the City Hall office, 620-587-3707.
City DepartMents
City Clerk – Lauren Kirmer 620-587-3707
City attorney – Robert Suelter 620-587-3707
City superintendent –Richard Hayes – 620-588-3723
City Maintenance – Connor Freis non-emergency 620-587-3723
police Chief – Gary Vaughan non-emergency 620-587-3344
Fire Chief – Doug Hubbard non-emergency 620-587-3498
animal Control Claflin Police Department 620-587-3344
U.s post Office 218 Main Street, 620-587-3935
Zip Code 67525
Galatia Olmitz
GALATIA
Galatia, founded in 1885, grew with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway to a population of 202 in 1921, but the discontinued use of the line extension ended growth. The population in the 2020 census was 45, but in 2022 it was 43.
Galatia has a church, auto repair and a few other businesses. The average commute for most residents is 18 minutes and Galatia’s cost of living is 31.3% lower than the U.S. average.
City CounCil
Mayor — Kevin Polzin
Councilman — Robert Kolas
Councilwoman — Nichole Allen
Councilman — Josh Keil
Councilwoman — Tammy Fishburn
Councilman — Brad Schuster
Council members meet at 7:30 p.m.
(8:00 p.m. during Daylight Saving Time) on the first Tuesday of each month at 150 W. Floyd Council members can be reached by calling the Mayor Kevin Polzin.
City Clerk Diane Deines
trash Service
Shamrock Sanitation 620-792-1639
u.S. Post office 800-275-8777
Rural route from Otis, 100 N. Main
Zip Code 67564
OLMITZ
The community of Olmitz was settled in 1885 by a group of Austrian Catholics who carried with them a strong belief in their parish education.
St. Ann’s Catholic Church and accompanying parochial school were among the first buildings constructed, with the parochial school beginning classes in grades 1-8 in 1903. Students now attend school at either OtisBison or Hoisington, both less than 10 miles away.
St. Ann’s Church, the post office and a restuarant are a few of the quaint small town highlights.
In 2019, the population was 71 but according to the 2020 census it is now at 90.
City CounCil
Mayor — Curtis Peterson
Councilman — Josh Tessendorf
Councilman — John “Matt” Suchy
Councilwoman — Karla Hagans
Councilwoman — Ashley Elsen
Councilman — Jim New
Council Members meet at 7:00 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at the Olmitz City Building, 219 Main Street. Council members can be reached at 620-586-3311.
City DEPARtMEntS
City Clerk — Krisa Schneider Streets — Tom Schneider treasurer — Krisa Schneider Sewer & Water — Tom Schneider
trash Service
Unruh Brothers Waste LLC Great Bend – 620-792-2257
Animal Control
Golden Belt Humane Society – 620-792-4297
u.S. Post office 223 Main St., 620-586-3319
Zip Code 67564
Pawnee Rock
Once a natural landmark on the Santa Fe Trail, the large rock formation comprised of Dakota Sandstone was a popular stop for Trail travelers heading west. The rock exists today as the Pawnee Rock State Historic Site, covered with the signatures of thousands of trappers, soldiers, gold seekers and emigrants of days gone by.
The city of Pawnee Rock sits about halfway between Great Bend and Larned, making it the western gateway to Barton County. Antique stores, churches and a post office make up a good portion of the town. The Pawnee Rock Revitalization Committee has been hard at work. A gazebo was installed for the community to use as a gathering space. Volunteers from CUNA Mutual/TruStage painted the park bathrooms and did landscaping.
The summer of 2024 saw residents gathering for a social time at the City Park Gazebo. They enjoyed bowls of ice cream and toppings, there were kids games and bingo hosted by the PRRC. New sidewalk construction at the park is also in the works.
Pawnee Rock is also home to the Pawnee Rock Easter Pageant. The Passion play has been presented since the 1930s and has been playing for nearly 90 years. On Easter Sunday at sunrise the play is presented at the top of the Pawnee Rock State Historic Site north of town.
Pawnee Rock once hosted a population of 450, but it is currently around 230. Students attend USD 495 in Larned.
City CounCil
Mayor – Paul Umble
Councilmember – Kerry Rose
Councilmember – Joyce Link
Councilmember – John Blundell
Councilmember – Lakin Dill
Councilmember – Caitlin Cross
Council members meet at 7:00 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at 508 Centre Street.
City departMents
City Clerk – Chris Mead, 620-982-4386 clerk@pawneerock-ks.org
Maintenance – Justin Blundell, 620-982-7068
animal Control
Golden Belt Humane Society, 620-792-4297
trash service
Arrow Trash, Great Bend, 620-793-5546
u s post office
501 Centre St., 620-982-4308
Zip Code 67567
Odin, located northwest of Claflin at the crossroads of NE 140 Road and NE 90 Ave., is steeped in tradition. In 2020, work began to bring events back to the Odin Rodeo Grounds/ Prosser Arena. In 2024, the 2,000-seat venue started its fourth full year of rough-stock events, steer riding and barrel racing through the summer and fall.
The arena is named for Norbert J. “Bones” Prosser. In the 1980s and ‘90s it was a premier Kansas rodeo destination, recognized as Rodeo of the Year by the Kansas State Rodeo Association from 1987 to 1990. Prosser’s son, Abe, has returned events to the facilities.
The town is also home to the Odin Store. Odin’s population in the 2022 Census was 131 but the population swells when things are hopping at this community hub for young and old alike. Edgar and Sue Jacobs bought the Odin Store in 1972. Sue passed away in 2021 and Edgar died unexpectedly in January 2024. Their son Monte Jacobs took over the store and there was a grand reopening in June 2024.
All of this, and a more than century-old limestone church, make Odin a place where residents and visitors can still find a slice of peaceful rural life and enjoy some family friendly entertainment.
Odin Beaver
Tiny but industrious Beaver, Kansas has been a center of quintessential rural life for more than a century. Hopping and lively, it is still integral to Barton County’s modern agriculture production.
First established in 1919, the unincorporated town of around 50 people is situated about eight miles north of K-4 between Hoisington and Claflin. It has been home to Beaver Grain Corp. with the century-old wooden elevator standing in the shadow of the much more modern elevator across the street. The building was completed, according to reports of the time, shortly after World War I.
Civic pride is evident in the active Volunteer Fire Department and Fire Station. Beaver is also home to Miller Time, a “Family Friendly Bar & Grill” at 1908 Elm St. that invites people to
“Come out to eat, stick around to play some Pool, Darts, and Cards.”
Nestled in the midst of quiet Barton County wheat fields, the community sits on the northwest side of the
intersection of NE 190 Road and 60 Avenue. Come get a drink and a bite to eat and enjoy a little bit of country hospitality in a community once described as the “most industrious of the new Barton County towns.”
Larned
To the west of Barton County lies the community of Larned, in Pawnee County. Larned was named for nearby Fort Larned and was laid out in December 1873. It later became the county seat.
The town grew quickly and by 1910 it had reached 3,000 residents. By 1916, Larned had the highest number of automobiles per capita in the state of Kansas. The 2020 census lists the population as 3,769. It is the biggest city in Pawnee County.
The Larned community of today maintains its connections with historic Fort Larned National Historic Site and the Santa Fe Trail Center as “mustsee” attractions. The community hosts several celebrations throughout the year. The Larned Antique Show is popular and has a steady following. The Tired Iron Show makes an appearance in October and November brings the Veterans Day Parade and is observed by the whole town. The usual Christmas events are popular and in May there is Santa Fe Trail Days, and the Pawnee County Fair in the summer. The end of summer is also fun for the four-legged friends as they get to swim in the community swimming pool on its last day.
Also fun to do in Larned is attend the State Theatre. The theater is a community-owned and operated venue that shows newly released movies.
USD 495 is the Fort Larned Unified School District and consists of Fort Larned Elementary School, Larned Middle School and Larned Senior High School. The school district participates in most of the KSHAA sanctioned sports.
CITY COUNCIL
Mayor - William Nusser
Ward 1
Rusty Hammond
Gary Rainbolt
Ward 2
Terry Clark
Jacques Mollecker
Ward 3
Josh Riedel
Jason Murray
Ward 4
Sharon McGinness
Kim Barnes
Council members meet at 6:30 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at 417 Broadway. Council members can be reached at the city office, 620-285-8500. Council members serve two-year terms.
CITY DEPARTMENTS
City Manager
Bradley Eilts, 620-285-8500
City Clerk Kara Rath, 620-285-8500
Finance Director
Monica Steiner, 620-285-8500
Emergency Medical Service
In January 2022, the Pawnee County Commissioners assumed oversight of EMS in Larned and Burdett to form Pawnee County EMS. The director is Kara Lawrence. Nonemergency contact number is 620-285-8505. Larned Swimming Pool
620-285-8570
Parks/Cemetery
620-285-8535
620-285-8500 (records)
Building Inspection
620-285-8509
Street Department
620-285-8560
Sanitation Department
620-285-8555
Wastewater Treatment
620-285-8513
Pawnee Sanitation
620-285-7780
U.S. Post Office 803 Broadway
620-285-2791
Zip Code 67550
Stafford
Despite its small size, Stafford has a vibrant community life. Local events, such as the annual Stafford County Fair, bring residents together and attract visitors from nearby towns. The fair features traditional activities like rodeo events, live music, and craft exhibits, celebrating the agricultural roots and close-knit nature of the area.
The Stafford Public Library and the local museum offer insights into the town’s history and culture, providing educational opportunities for both residents and tourists. These venues play a crucial role in preserving Stafford’s heritage and fostering a sense of community.
Surrounded by the rolling plains of central Kansas, Stafford is known as the “Gateway to Quivira”, (Quivira National Wildlife Refuge). Fishing, hiking, and birdwatching are popular activities in the surrounding area, offering a chance to experience the tranquil beauty of the Kansas landscape. Stafford’s 2024 population is around 914 and students attend USD 349.
St. John
St. John is located in Stafford County on U.S. Highway 281 between Great Bend and Pratt. The city was established in 1875, originally known as Zion Valley settled by members of the Church of Jesus Christ, a.k.a Latter Day Saints or Mormons. The local economy is based on ranching, farming and oil production and is surrounded by fields of wheat, corn, milo, soybeans, garden crops, pine trees and large groves of shelter belts, and timber claims.
St. John is famous for its downtown city square, fountain, and small-town appeal where children ride their bikes to school, the store or park and horse and riders strolling the streets is not an uncommon sight. Visitor highlights include the unique structure of the Stafford County courthouse, Church on the hill, WPA projects, and St. John Science Museum, Lucille Hall Museum and Ida Long Goodman Memorial Library.
The city has a population of roughly 1,200 citizens and students attend USD 350 St. John-Hudson in St. John.
City CounCil
Mayor – Don Hardin
Councilmember – Jimmy Brozek
Councilmember – Nicholas Minks
Councilmember – Myra Morrison
Councilmember – Randy Pugh
Councilmember – Mark Soria
City departMents
City Clerk – Jami Downing, 620-234-5011 cityofstafford@gbta.net
utility supervisor - Andy Holmes
police Chief - Carl Wettstein
Fire Chief - Paul Eisenhour
u s post office
108 N Main St
Zip Code 67578
City CounCil
Mayor – Bobby Stimatze
Councilmember – Mark Bryant
Councilmember – Kyle Bunker
Councilmember – Aaron Gleason
Councilmember – Aaron Raines
Councilmember – Sara Woolf
City departMents
City Clerk – Pam Watson, 620-549-3208 pwatson@stjohnks.gov
Maintenance – Jason Wyatt, 620-635-0069
police Chief - Tori Perez tperez@stjohnks.gov
Fire Chief - Mike Sanders chieftsanders320@gmail.com
u s post office
320 N Main St.
Zip Code 67576
Hudson
Hudson a small community in Stafford County that is bustling with nearby wildlife at the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. In the 1880’s, the town was originally called Rattlesnake and had wild roots. The town was renamed to Hudson around 1887.
Along the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway you will encounter a land of stunning bird migrations, radiant wetlands exploding with wildlife, prairie vistas with immense blue skies and stunning sunsets.
One of the primary employers of the community is the Stafford County Flour Mill. They make their own brand of Hudson Cream Flour and produce varieties for Kemach, King Arthur and Kroger. Other must stop places are the Wheatland Café and Drach’s Farm & Orchard.
Macksville
Macksville is a city in Stafford County that is located on US Highway 50, which is roughly midway between Larned and Dodge City.
Macksville is known for its rich agriculture. Visitors and residents alike enjoy the tranquility of the area, which provides a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of urban life.
The main attraction in Macksville is the EJ Seibert Hitch and Stitch, where visitors can ride in a horse-drawn carriage down the main streets. For those who happen to be hungry while in Macksville, you’ll want to stop by the local Edna’s Bar & GrillI, where a small town cafe meets big and bold flavors! If you find yourself in need of event space, then The Welch Farm has you covered with available barn space for weddings, reunions, business retreats, and family gatherings!
City CounCil
Mayor – Kenneth Grabast
Councilmember – Bret Fensky
Councilmember – Thomas Fischer
Councilmember – Billy Milton
Councilmember – Chris Staub
Councilmember – Cody Zeman
City departMents
City Clerk – Sheila Witt
Fire Chief - Thomas Fischer
Zip Code 67545
City CounCil
Mayor – Chad Cleveland
Councilmember – Mary Bates
Councilmember – Sherry Roach
Councilmember – Shane Grizzell
Councilmember – Juan Ortiz
Councilmember – Christian Acosta
City departMents
City Clerk – Kim Hottovy
City office
220 N Main St.
620-348-2575 macksvillecity@gbta.net
police chief - Troy Wright
Fire Chief - Jeremy Butler
u.s. post office
214 N Main St.
Zip Code 67557
Community
Churches
AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL
Myers Chapel A.M.E. 1511 Ninth, Great Bend
APOSTOLIC ASSEMBLY
Apostolic Assembly 3920 Forest, Great Bend
ASSEMBLY OF GOD
Encounter Church
601 S. Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5211
Iglesia de la Cosecha 222 Frey Street, Great Bend
BAPTIST
First Baptist Church 1601 19th Street, Great Bend
BAPTIST –AMERICAN
Central Baptist Church
3301 Lakin, Great Bend
620-793-8491
BAPTIST –INDEPENDENT
First Bible Baptist Church
5962 4th Street, Great Bend
620-792-2936
BAPTIST –NORTH AMERICAN
First Baptist Church
503A SE 110th Ave., Ellinwood 620-564-2875
BAPTIST –SOUTHERN
Calvary Baptist Church 307 West A, Ellinwood 620-564-2070
Crosspoint Church
57 SE 20th Rd., Great Bend 620-796-2202
First Southern Baptist Church 3301 19th Street, Great Bend 620-793-8444
New Life Baptist Church
364 W. 12th Street, Hoisington 620-653-4028
CATHOLIC
Dominican Chapel of the Plains 3600 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-1232
Holy Family Church 1387 NE 90th Ave., Odin 620-587-3628
Immaculate Conception 310 Main, Claflin 620-587-3628
Prince of Peace Parish
St. Patrick Church 4100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-1396
St. Rose of Lima Church 1424 Baker, Great Bend 620-792-1396
St. Ann’s Catholic Church 115 Cleveland, Olmitz 620-653-2963
St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 122 E. 5th Street, Hoisington 620-653-2963
St. Joseph Catholic Church 214 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-2534
CHRISTIAN (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST)
First Christian Church 5230 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-6603
CHRISTIAN –INDEPENDENT
Community Christian Chur ch 253 NE 30th Rd., Great Bend 620-792-8215
Pawnee Rock Christian Church 519 Centre, Pawnee Rock 620-804-0041
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ 1122 Stone, Great Bend 620-792-4647
CHURCH OF GOD
First Church of God
1224 Baker, Great Bend 620-793-5231
First Street Church of God
601 E. 1st Street, Hoisington 918-894-9580
CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST
Great Bend Church of God in Christ 1606 Williams, Great Bend
EPISCOPAL
St. John’s Episcopal Church 2107 Tyler, Great Bend 620-792-6011
EVANGELICAL FREE
Grace Community Church 210 McKinley, Great Bend 620-792-7814
FOUR-SQUARE
Crosswinds of Kansas Bikers Church 1219 Main Street, Great Bend 620-282-1908
HOLINESS CHURCH
Bible Holiness Church 502 Stone, Great Bend 620-603-6632
INDEPENDENT
Foundry Community Church 5401 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-3327
INDEPENDENT BIBLE
Hoisington Bible Church 501 E. 2nd Street, Hoisington 620-653-4533
LATTER DAY SAINTS (MORMON)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5851 Eisenhower, Great Bend 620-793-7328
LUTHERAN – ELCA
Emmanuel Lutheran Church 1109 N. Vine, Hoisington 620-653-4345
Peace Lutheran Church 1243 CR 400, Rural Albert 620-923-4624
St. Mark Lutheran Church 2101 Jackson, Great Bend 620-792-4796
St. Paul Lutheran Church 402 Main, Galatia
LUTHERAN –MISSOURI SYNOD
Concordia Lutheran Church 460 W. 9th Street, Hoisington 620-653-4644
Our Saviour Lutheran Church 5860 Eisenhower, Great Bend
St. John’s Lutheran Church 512 N. Wilhelm Ave., Ellinwood 620-564-2044
Zion Lutheran Church 121 5th Street, Claflin
LUTHERAN – LCMC
Trinity Lutheran Church 2701 24th Street, Great Bend 620-793-7894
UNITED METHODIST
First United Methodist Church 2123 Forest, Great Bend 620-792-2148
First United Methodist Church 467 W. 3rd Street, Hoisington 620-292-7277
King United Methodist Church 1608 Odell, Great Bend 620-793-6778
Trinity United Methodist Church 5700 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-6016
United Methodist Church 120 3rd Street, Claflin 620-587-3505
NAZARENE
First Church of the Nazarene 4811 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-6139
Hoisington Church of the Nazarene 359 W. 9th St., Hoisington 620-653-4122
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
The Cornerstone Fellowship 1609 24th Street, Great Bend 620-792-7852
Dream Center Fellowship Service 1515 Williams, Great Bend 620-282-4014
Ellinwood Community Church 701 W. Seventh, Ellinwood 620-564-2950
Faith Community Church 293 W. Barton Co. Road, Great Bend 620-793-8084
Fellowship of Faith Bible 915 Eisenhower, Great Bend Great Bend Gathering 407 McKinley, Great Bend (use back door)
Heartland Community Church 4907 10th Street, Great Bend 620-603-6061
Peace United Church of Christ 4 miles North of Hudson 492 NE 140th St. 620-786-9780
Solid Word Church 242 N. Hwy. 281, Great Bend 620-797-0185
PRESBYTERIAN
First Presbyterian Church 2400 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-2594
PROTESTANT
New Jerusalem Church 300 Santa Fe, Pawnee Rock 620-982-4520
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST
Seventh-Day Adventist Church 7 SW 30th Ave., Great Bend 620-793-5096
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
First Congregational United Church of Christ 3400 21st Street, Great Bend 620-792-5346
Victor Velez
Sunday Worship Service - 10:30 a.m. 620-793-8491 www.centralbaptistchurchofgb.com • centralbaptistgb@gmail.com
Worship & Education Schedule
Saturday Worship - 5:00 p.m.
Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.
KICKS Midweek Education, Wednesdays during school year, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
TLC Discoveries After-School Program and Little Blessings Preschool: 620-793-8816
2701-24th Street, Great Bend, Kansas 620-793-7894
Office Hours: 9:00-Noon Monday-Friday http://tlcgbks.wix.com/trinity-church trinitychrch@hotmail.com
Facebook Page: TrinityLutheranChurchKS
Get InvolvedClubs and Organizations
4-H and YoutH Programs
Michelle Beran, 4-H Youth Development Agent 3007 10th St., Great Bend 620-793-1910
Kids who are 7 and not yet 19 by January 1 of current year may join.
Clover Buds are ages 5-6. 4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills.
For more information www.cottonwood.k-state.edu
american Legion Post #180
1011 Kansas, Great Bend 620-793-5912
American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, American Legion Riders, Sons of the American Legion
american Legion Post #320
117 E. Santa Fe Blvd., Ellinwood 620-564-3252
American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion
american Legion Post #286 204 N. Main, Hoisington 620-653-4816
American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion
artists at Large of centraL Kansas
Alyssa Bliven alyssa13.rose@gmail.com 402-984-1155
Mary Kottmann kottmannm@cox.net, 620-786-4767
Meets the 1st Wednesday at Great Bend Public Library basement, 4:00 p.m.
american red cross of soutH centraL and soutH east, Kansas Wichita, 316-219-4000
Barton communitY coLLege foundation 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend Lindsey Bogner, 620-786-1141 foundation@bartonccc.edu
“We Serve” is
Barton countY association of cHurcHes
Nancy Sundahl, 620-793-5894
Barton countY association of retired scHooL PersonneL
Judy Fox, 620-793-9702
Meets 4 times a year, call for meeting times
Barton countY 4-H HoLding Board inc. Great Bend, 620-793-1910
Barton countY fair association Great Bend, 620-797-3247
Barton countY fair friends
Barb Davenport 620-792-2647 or 620-797-FAIR
Meets first Monday of the month
Barton countY HistoricaL societY
Linda McCaffery, MA Director P.O. Box 1091 Great Bend, 620-793-5125 www.bartoncountymuseum.org
Barton countY Young mens organization inc. Great Bend, 620-792-1619
Barton countY YoutH care inc. Great Bend, 620-792-2902
Proud to be a part of Great Bend and Barton County for over 100 years!
Argonne Post 180 1011 Kansas Ave (620) 793-5912
We welcome you to be a part of our mission to serve Veterans, Active Duty Military, their families and our community. Stop by the Post and learn how you can join the American Legion Family.
Check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/KSLegion180/
BirtHrigHt of great Bend inc. Great Bend, 620-792-3316
BoY scouts of america QuiVira counciL 316-264-3386
camP HoPe
Gail Moeder, 620-793-9052, 620-786-4055
catHoLic cHarities of soutHwest Kansas Great Bend, 620-792-1393
centraL Kansas association for tHe VisuaLLY imPaired Great Bend, 620-793-5645 620-617-8980
centraL Kansas court aPPointed
sPeciaL adVocates (casa) Great Bend, 620-792-5544
centraL Kansas tHreadBenders QuiLt guiLd
Sharon King, 620-617-9973
Please leave message
Meets the 3rd Friday at 1:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 2123 Forest, Great Bend. Visitors welcome.
cHeYenne Bottoms
ducKs unLimited cHaPter Hoisington, Ks. Find them on facebook
cHeYenne QuiVira ducKs unLimited cHaPter ducks.org/kansas and facebook
cLara Barton
HosPitaL auxiLiarY
Marty Schloemer 620-791-7127
cLara Barton
HosPitaL foundation
Michelle Moshier, Executive Director 620-292-0814
commission on aging Great Bend, 620-792-3906
cottonwood extension district Programs
Jay Harris – District Director 3007 10th, Great Bend 620-793-1910
jharris@ksu.edu
Extension Educational Programs in the areas of Family and Consumer Sciences, Agriculture, and Youth Development are presented across the Cottonwood District which includes Barton and Ellis Counties. For more information www.cottonwood.k-state.edu
daugHters of isaBeLLa, immacuLate concePtion
circLe #744
Donna Gales, 620-786-2093
Shelly Arnberger, 620-617-5195
Great Bend, Ellinwood, Hoisington, Olmitz, Claflin. A Catholic women’s organization. Meets 2nd Monday at St. Patrick’s Parish Center, 4100 Broadway at 6:30 p.m.
dc souP KitcHen
Great Bend, 620-282-4014
doLLY Parton’s imagination LiBrarY
Great Bend, 620-792-2403
In Ellinwood, Hoisington and Great Bend (United Way)
eLdercare inc. Great Bend, 620-792-5942
eLLinwood communitY HistoricaL societY & museum
Joyce Schulte, 620-564-2886 104 N. Main St.
eLLinwood food BanK Ellinwood, 620-564-2660
eLLinwood garden cLuB
Rosie Joiner, 620-792-9553 P.O. Box 23, Ellinwood Meets 2nd Wednesday 9:30 a.m. March - June and September - November
eLLinwood Heritage senior center Ellinwood, 620-564-3649
eLLinwood HosPitaL auxiLiarY
Sandy Roth, Ellinwood 620-786-5638
eLLinwood KnigHts of coLumBus #1187
110 W. 2nd St., Ellinwood John Clayton, 620-566-7040 Meets the 4th Monday 7:30 p.m.
eLLinwood PuBLic scHooLs and LiBrarY foundation
300 N. Schiller, Ellinwood 620-564-3226
emergencY aid counciL Great Bend, 620-793-3345
ePsiLon sigma aLPHa/ Beta nu
Kathie Keller, 620-793-6397 or 620-639-2112
famiLY crisis center
Great Bend, 620-793-9941 Toll Free Crisis Line 866-792-1885
food BanK of Barton countY inc.
Great Bend, 620-792-4001
order of tHe eagLes 1024 Main, Great Bend 620-792-4582
Meets 1st and 3rd Monday 7 p.m.
girL scouts of Kansas HeartLand
316-684-6531
Troops are active during the school year, time and date of meeting times determined by troop leader.
goLden BeLt communitY concert assoc.
Linda Jerke, 620-793-2748
Professional musical entertainment brought to this area.
goLden BeLt communitY foundation
1307 Williams, Great Bend
Jason Murray, Executive Director, 620-792-3000
goLden BeLt Home HeaLtH and HosPice
Great Bend, 620-792-8171
goLden BeLt Humane & animaL weLfare societY inc.
Great Bend, 620-792-4297
goLden BeLt modeL raiLroaders assoc.
PO Box 2069, Great Bend
Jim Loesch, 620-653-2575
Meets 1st Saturday at 5:00 p.m. at 1405 Main, Great Bend
goLden BeLt wood carVers
Barry Bowers, Great Bend 620-793-6121
Meets on Thursdays from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas
great BendBarton countY crime stoPPers inc.
Great Bend, 620-792-1300
great Bend communitY tHeater
Madison Hembree, Theatre Mgr. 620-792-4228
great Bend desK & derricK
Sharon Hiss, 620-793-4878 www.addc.org
Meets the 1st Thursday at 7:00 p.m. locations to be determined. Membership open to anyone who wants to learn more about petroleum, energy and allied industries.
great Bend garden cLuB
Nancy Williams, 620-792-2379
Meets the 3rd Thursday at 10:00 a.m.
(September - May) at the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas. Anyone interested in plants and gardening is welcome.
great Bend KnigHts of coLumBus counciL #862 723 Main, Great Bend 620-793-3930
great Bend masonic Lodge #15 1917 17th St. Great Bend, 620-617-3634
great Bend PuBLic LiBrarY Great Bend, 620-792-2409
great Bend recreation commission foundation Great Bend, 620-793-3755
great Bend saddLe cLuB
Judy Demel, Secretary 620-791-7297
Meets the 4th Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Farmers Bank and Trust 1612 Main, Great Bend
For over 65 years, the goal is to promote good horsemanship throughout the area. Active in play days, trail rides and parades. Facebook page - GreatBendSaddleClubtheoriginal
great Bend wrestLing cLuB Great Bend, 620-282-2910
great Bend
zooLogicaL societY 620-793-4226
Great Bend Brit-Spaugh Zoo 2123 Main, Great Bend
High-end shampoos from Italy
Fear-free dog grooming
A Master dog groomer with 40 years experience
HaBitat for HumanitY
Great Bend, 620-792-1232
Hoisington HistoricaL societY
Kenny Eaves, 620-786-5975 120 E. 2nd, Hoisington
Hoisington KnigHts of coLumBus counciL #152 PO Box 149, 114 N. Main, Hoisington
Hoisington masonic Lodge 620-653-4619 351 W. 2nd, Hoisington
HoLY famiLY scHooL foundation
Great Bend, 620-793-3265
Housing oPPortunities inc.
Great Bend, 620-792-3299
intermediate interVention Program Great Bend, 620-793-1930
indePendent order of odd feLLows VaLLeY Lodge no. 95
Ken Edgett, 620-793-0793
Meets last Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at 2025-1/2 Forest, Great Bend
Jefferson scHooL
Parent teacHer organization inc. Great Bend, 620-793-1502
Kans for Kids figHting cancer foundation
169 S. Main St., Hoisington 620-653-2210 kans4kids@ruraltel.net www.kansforkids.org Organization provides funding and emotional support for Barton County children 18 years of age or younger, undergoing treatment for cancer.
Kansas oiL & gas museum foundation
Great Bend, 620-793-8301
Kiwanis cLuB of great Bend
Frankie Pelster, 620-603-6502
Noon on Wednesdays at Walnut Bowl, 3101 N. Washington.
League of women Voters
Janice Walker, 620-617-4568
lmvbartoncounty@gmail.com
Meets 2nd Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. at the Senior Center, 2005 Kansas.
Lions cLuB - cLafLin
Lois Krier, 620-792-9922
Meets the 4th Monday, Independent Township Library, 108 Main, Claflin.
Lions cLuB, eVeninggreat Bend
Elwyn Maneth, 620-282-2598
Meets 1st Monday at 6:30 p.m. at Columbus Club 723 Main St., Great Bend.
Lions cLuB, noon - great Bend
Kris Sundahl, 620-603-0340
Meets each Tuesday at noon at Perkins, 2920 10th St., Great Bend
meaLs on wHeeLs of Barton countY
Great Bend, 620-792-1833
medicaLodges
BeneVoLence inc. Great Bend, 620-792-2165
mu KaPPa cHaPter
Beta sigma PHi
Jonelle Niles, 620-617-1008
oPtimist of great Bend
Steve Kummer, 620-792-5415
Meets every Monday except major holidays at noon at Walnut Bowl.
Peo cHaPter Hr
Jan Keeley, 620-617-2039
Meets the 2nd Monday, at 7:00 p.m.
PHeasants foreVer rooster Booster CHAPTER #504
Scot Moeder, 620-786-0273 smoeder15@gmail.com
PiLot cLuB of great Bend
Daniel Watson, 620-786-8912
Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday at noon at Perkins, 2920 10th St., Great Bend. Meetings are also held on the 5th Tuesday at 5:15 p.m. at Perkins for those who can’t attend noon meetings. Their mission is to improve the quality of life in the community. Their goal is to achieve universal awareness and prevention of brain-related disorders and disabilities. Prairie godmotHers
Camp Hope, a camp for kids and teens with cancer held at Camp Aldrich near Claflin the third weekend of June each year.
Camp SIBsational, a camp for the siblings of kids with cancer held at Camp Wood near Elmdale the last week of July/first week of August each year.
GOLDEN BELT COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FUNDS
620-792-3000
goldenbeltcf.org/prairiegodmothers
PROGRESS STUDY CLUB
Jan Keeley, 620-617-2039
Meets the 1st Monday at 1:15 p.m. October - May, at Presbyterian Church, 2400 Washington.
RETIRED AND SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM (RSVP)
Great Bend, 620-792-1614
ROSEWOOD ROOTS & WINGS FOUNDATION
620-796-2242
1213 Main St., Great Bend www.rosewoodservices.com
Non-Profit organization helping fund the medical, educational, instructional, therapeutic and recreational needs of clients.
ROTARY CLUB OF ELLINWOOD
Meets Tuesdays at noon at Gather, 19 N. Main, Ellinwood
ROTARY CLUB OF GREAT BEND
Rebecca Popp
Meet 2nd and 4th Mondays at Perkins, 2920 10th St., Great Bend.
SALVATION ARMY
Great Bend, 620-792-4299
SENIOR CENTER
Great Bend, 620-792-3906
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, POST 3111
504 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-2754
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, POST 7428
256 S. Main, Hoisington 620-653-4501
or seneschal@westumbria. calontir.org. Meets monthly.
STAR OF HOPE INTERNATIONAL AMERICA INC.
Ellinwood, 866-653-0321
SUNFLOWER DIVERSIFIED SERVICES FOUNDATION
620-792-1325
TWILIGHT STITCHERS
QUILT GROUP
Julie Blakeslee, 620-564-3047
Meets 2nd Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at the Ellinwood School Community Library, 210 N. Schiller, Ellinwood.
TWISTED STITCHERS
Pam Atteberry, 620-587-3610
Meets 3rd Wednesday, except December, at 7:00 p.m. Independent Township Library, 108 Main Street, Claflin.
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY OF KANSAS Wichita, 316-652-1538
UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL KANSAS
Charell Owings, 620-792-2403 1125 Williams, Great Bend
USD 428 EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Great Bend, 620-793-1500
USD 431 EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Hoisington, 620-653-4134
VINTAGE WHEELS CAR CLUB, INC. www.facebook.com/ vintagewheelscarclub
VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION/ AMERICORPS SENIORS
Linn Hogg, 620-792-1614 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend
WOMEN FOR KANSAS
Pam Martin, 620-285-1083
Meets 3rd Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 592 NE K-156 Highway, Great Bend.
XI DELTA CHAPTER OF BETA SIGMA PHI
Nancy Sundahl, 620-793-5894
YOUTH FRIENDS
Riley SchoolGreat Bend, 620-793-1506
Park SchoolGreat Bend, 620-793-1505
QUILTS OF VALOR
Amy Mellor 620-617-3627
NURSES HONOR GUARD
Sandy Morey, RNnowamsam@hotmail.com
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024
Great Bend Events Center
3:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.
Loads of fun & prizes!
Free Admission - Exhibits Galore Door Prizes - Demonstrations
oin your gal pals at the Women’s Expo. This event has become a highly anticipated September tradition for women throughout the area.
Get your tickets at the Great Bend Tribune office, 2012 Forest, in your newspaper or online at www.gbtribune.com
As part of this annual event, donations and nonperishable food or pantry items will be collected at the door to benefit the Barton County Food Bank. Donations will also be taken to help fill the list of items Barton County teachers needs for their classrooms.
The Great Bend Tribune’s Women’s Expo is a chance for you to see what’s in and new in the worlds of fashion and beauty, health and fitness, personal and work life. Check out exhibits, demonstrations, services and wares from area businesses as well as door prizes and give-aways provided by vendors and so much more!
Don’t forget to register for tons of prizes.
There will be a Grand Prize drawing again this year.
Senior Services
Great Bend Senior Center
2005 Kansas Ave., Great Bend
620-792-3906
Commission on Aging
3rd Tuesday, 9:30 a.m.
Friendship Meals
Monday-Friday, noon
Birthdays & Anniversaries, 3rd Thursday, 1:00 p.m.
Canasta
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Dominoes
Tuesday & Thursday, 1:00 p.m. Pitch, Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. Potluck, 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. Stretchin’ with Gretchen, Tuesday, 11:30 a.m.
Wellness Wednesdays
1st Wednesday, 11-11:45 a.m.
Job Opportunities Meeting (OKEP) Older Kansans Employment Program, Wednesdays (except 1st Wednesdays), 10:00 a.m.
Senior Center Advisory Council 1st Thursday, 9:30 a.m.
Educational sessions, parties are held at 1:15 p.m.
Newsletters available at: Senior Center, Great Bend Recreation Commission, High Rise, Central Kansas Public Library
Senior Center Rental 620-792-3906 Legal Services 620-792-3906
Great Bend City Auditorium 1214 Stone (Lakin and Williams)
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Walkers and Joggers
Great Bend Activity Center
2715 18th 620-793-3755
Monday-Thursday
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 P.M.
Many activities and programs are held here. It also includes a 1/8 mile walking trail.
Great Bend Public Library 1409 Williams, 620-792-2409
All types of technical assistance; Set up for Talking Books, more.
Great Bend Recreation Center 1214 Stone 620-793-3755
Monday-Thursday
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Jean Cavanaugh Wellness AreaGreat Bend Rec Center 1214 Stone 620-793-3755, ext. 2 Monday-Thursday
7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Friday 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m. - noon Sunday - closed
Great Bend Recreation Commission 1214 Stone Street, Great Bend 620-793-3755
Volunteers in Action of Central Kansas 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend 620-792-1614 Call for non-emergency medical transportation and AARP Foundation Tax Aide
Great Bend Regional Service Center (SRS) 1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-793-5324
Kansas Equipment Exchange 866-666-1470
Assistance Technology for Kansans 800-526-3648 Website: atk.ku.edu
Kansas Guardianship Program 800-672-0086
CLAfLin
Claflin Community Center 409 A Street, 620-587-3215 Activities, Meetings, Games, Birthday Cake and Coffee 3rd Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. Bingo, 2nd Tuesday, 1:30 p.m.
ELLinWood
Ellinwood Heritage Center 103 N. Main, 620-564-3649 Monday - Friday 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Friendship Meals, 11:45 a.m. Potluck Dinner, 2nd & 4th Monday Games, Finger Foods, Card Party 1st & 3rd Sunday, 6:00 p.m. Cards, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
HoiSinGTon
friendship Hall 419 E. 3rd, 620-653-2555 or 620-617-2116
Friendship Meals, noon
The Hoisington Commission on Aging 109 E. 1st, 620-653-4125 2nd Tuesday, 4:30 p.m.
oTHER SERViCES
Barton County Health department 1300 Kansas, Great Bend 620-793-1902
Central Kansas dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-282-4014
The Center for Counseling & Consultation 5815 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-2544, 800-875-2544
Elder Care
1121 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-5942, 866-792-5942
Honorary Sportsman Card
Barton County Clerk-Courthouse
620-793-1835
Living independently in northwest Kansas (Link) inc. 2401 East 13th St., Hays
800-569-5926
linkinc.org
Meals on Wheels of Barton County 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend
620-792-1833
Also serves Ellinwood and Hoisington
Pathways, ResCare Home Care
2317 Washington, Great Bend 620-793-8501
Personal care assistance, instrumental activities of daily living, wellness monitoring, housekeeping
Parent Teacher Resource Center
Washington Education Center 2535 Lakin, Great Bend - Southwest Door 620-793-1633
Educational service, copying, binding, laminating, spiral binding
Senior Health insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHiCK)
800-860-5260
Social Security Administration
877-846-8333
811 E. 30th Ave., Hutchinson
Southwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging
620-793-6633
1905 Washington, Great Bend
Veterans Affairs
800-827-1000
Benefit questions
Veterans Hospital Robert J. Dole
VA Medical Center 5500 E. Kellogg Ave., Wichita, KS, 316-685-2221
EMPLoyMEnT
older Kansans Employment ProgramKansas Works 1025 Main, Great Bend
620-793-5445
LaRena Hildebrand 620-225-8230 Thursday, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Southwest Kansas Agency on Aging
1905 Washington, Great Bend 620-793-6633, 620-225-8230 800-742-9531
HouSinG
Cardinal Apartments, inc. 1400 N. Clay, Hoisington 620-653-4342
Cedar Park Place 3910 Cedar Park Pl., Great Bend 620-793-8115
Claflin Housing Authority
606 W. Albro, PO Box 332, Claflin 620-587-3435
Ellinwood Heights Apartments
515 S. Bismark, Ellinwood 620-564-2180
Great Bend
Housing Authority 1101 Kansas, 620-793-7761
Medicalodges Great Bend 1401 Cherry Ln., Great Bend 620-792-2165
Housing opportunities inc. 1313 Stone, Great Bend 620-792-3299
Income based rental properties open to ages 55 and over and/or disabled
Barton County Rental
Housing developments
Ellinwood
The Oaks, Ellinwood
Great Bend
Northglenn Apartments
Bedford Place LLC
Walnut Creek Apartments
Walnut Glenn Apartments
CreekSide Place
Kensington Square LLC
Quail Cove LLC
Hoisington
Cheyenne Ridge LLC
WheatRidge Apartments
EastWood Apartments LLC
uTiLiTy ASSiSTAnCE
Barton County Emergency Aid Council
3007 10th, Great Bend 620-793-3345
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Community food Bank of Barton County
3007 10th, Great Bend 620-792-4001
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1:00 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Kansas Weatherization Assistance Program For Barton CountyNorth Central Regional Planning Commission, 800-432-0303
https://kshousingcorp.org/homeowners/ weatherization-assistance/
Low income Energy Assistance Program
1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5324 ext. 200 888-369-4777
Salvation Army
2545 10th Street, Great Bend 620-792-4299
Support Services
ABUSE SUPPORT
Family Crisis Center 1924 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-1885, 620-793-9941, 1-866-792-1885
(24 hour crisis line)
Family Crisis Center Domestic Violence Survivor Group –5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. every Wednesday. Children are welcome to attend their own group. Dinner is provided. For more information call 620-793-9941.
Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence
888-END ABUSE, 888-363-2287
Kansas Crisis Hotline
ADOPTION
Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas 2201 16th, Great Bend 620-792-1393, 1-800-794-9756
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES
Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services
785-296-4986, 800-432-3535
Kansas Department of Health & Environment –Bureau of Health Facilities
785-296-1500, 800-842-0078
Nursing home complaints
ALCOHOLISM/DRUG
ABUSE
Addiction Support Group:
Rise from Ashes Recovery Church of God,1224 Baker Ave., Great Bend, in the basement. Open, nonsmoking meetings for all types of addiction.
Seven days a week, 7:00 p.m.
Alcoholics Anonymous Great Bend
1620 Hubbard, Great Bend 620-793-3962
Sunday 7:00 p.m.
Monday, Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday 10:00 a.m.
Wednesday 10:00 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.
“Grapevine” Group
1910 17th St., Great Bend
Sunday 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday and Thursday 5:30 p.m.
Hoisington
419 East Third St., Hoisington Sunday 9:00 a.m.
Tri-County Claflin Group
108 Main St. - Claflin
Independent Township Library
Monday 10:00 a.m.
Al-Anon 1620 Hubbard, Great Bend 620-639-4124
Wednesday noon
Saturday 9:00 a.m.
1910 17th St., Great Bend
Tuesday 7:00 p.m.
Central Kansas Dream Center
2100 Broadway, Great Bend
620-282-4014
Christian 12-Step Program Dream Inc.
2006 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-5152
The Center for Counseling & Consultation
5815 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-2544
www.thecentergb.org
Narcotics Anonymous 620-603-0920
www.marscna.net
“Living By Faith” Group
1910 17th St., Great Bend
Sunday 5:30 p.m., Tuesday noon
Wednesday 5:30 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 8:00 p.m.
“Wecovery” Group 2123 Forest Ave., Great Bend West entry, upstairs on right Monday 6:30 p.m.
Thursday 7:00 p.m.
AUTISM SUPPORT
Sunflower Diversified Services, Inc.
Early Education Center 1312 Patton, Great Bend 620-792-4087
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Autism program. Serving children birth to entering kindergarten.
BREAST FEEDING SUPPORT
Central Kansas Partnership
Call Bev at 620-793-1902 ckpartnership.org/breastfeedingcoalition
CANCER SUPPORT
Breast Friends
Mi Tierra Restaurant 118 E. 1st St., Hoisington Third Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m. This group is only open to breast cancer survivors.
CHILD CARE SUPPORT
Kansas Department for Children and Families
1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5324, 888-369-4777
Employed parents financial help with child care expenses. (Cash assistance) www.dcf.ks.gov
CHILDREN IN NEED
20th Judicial District Court Services 1400 Main, Rm. 306, Great Bend 620-793-1856, Martha Rivas mrbtdistcrt@cpcis.net
Barton County Young Men’s Organization 1515 Morton, Great Bend 620-792-1619
Barton County Youth Care 2212 Forest Ave., Great Bend 620-792-2902
Central Kansas Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)
2000 Washington St., Great Bend 620-792-5544 director@ckcasa.org
Kansas Department for Children and Families To report abuse call 800-922-5330
COUNSELING/MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
The Center for Counseling & Consultation 5815 Broadway, Great Bend 620-792-2544 (24 hour emergency number) www.thecentergb.org A Full Service, licensed, Community Mental Health Center
DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS SUPPORT
Dementia Caregivers Support Hoisington Public Library 169 South Walnut St. Macy Ingham, RN 620-292-0830
Michelle Niedens, LSCSW 913-945-7310
First Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. For family members supporting and caring for individuals with dementia. Open format for information gathering, asking questions, learning strategies and sharing concerns.
DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED
Rosewood Services
384 N. Washington, Great Bend 620-793-5888
Vocational training assistance and support services.
Southwest Developmental Services, Inc (SDSI)
1103 Main, Great Bend 620-793-7604, 888-793-7604
Sunflower Diversified Services
5611 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-1325
Vocational training assistance, early childhood intervention/ education, support services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
DIABETES SUPPORT
La Nueva Esperanza Hispanic Heart of Kansas Family Health Care Inc.
1905 19th St., Great Bend 620-792-5700
Heart of Kansas Family Health Care Inc. 1905 19th St., Great Bend 620-792-5700
Naturally Sweet - Type I 620-617-6700
First Saturday at Central Kansas Christian Academy gym, 215 McKinley St., Great Bend Candace Herrman
ELDERLY
Southwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging
1905 Washington, Great Bend 620-793-6633
EMERGENCY
SERVICE AID
American Red Cross Disaster Response and Planning 1321 SW Topeka Boulevard, Topeka, KS, 785-354-9238 Barton County is part of American Red Cross of Greater Kansas www.redcross.org
Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas 2201 16th, Great Bend 620-792-1393, 800-794-9756
Central Kansas Dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-282-3094 or 620-282-4104, centralksdc@gmail.com
Emergency Aid Council
3007 10th St., Great Bend 620-793-3345
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
LIEAP-Low Income Energy Assistance Program
1-800-432-0043, 620-272-5985
Live Like Jesus Today Ministries
Buzz and Cliffann Birney Kingdom Campus, 700 Patton Road, Great Bend, KS 67530
620-564-2148
620-397-3225
Warehouse open 8:30 a.m.noon and 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday livelikejesustoday.com
The Salvation Army 2545 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-4299
United Way of Central Kansas Charell Owings
2000 Washington St., Great Bend 620-792-2403
unitedwaycentralks@hotmail.com
EMERGENCY AND TRANSITIONAL SHELTER
Central Kansas Dream Center
2100 Broadway, Great Bend 620-282-3094 or 620-282-4104 centralksdc@gmail.com
Transitional living ministry for women with or without children.
Oxford Houses Sober Living
• Hope Central (Men’s House) 785-259-4452
• Credence (Men’s House) 620-603-8911
• Serenity Way (Women’s and Children’s House) 620-603-6075
Prodigal Ministries of Kansas 620-793-5175 or 620-793-9196 Mens transitional and emergency shelter.
EMPLOYMENT
Barton Community College Career Center
245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend 620-792-9349
Barton Community College Center for Adult Education 1025 Main, Second Floor Great Bend 620-786-7560
Central Kansas Educational Opportunity Center 1025 Main, Great Bend 620-793-8164, Jamie Hatfield, coordinator/academic advisor hatfieldj@bartonccc.edu
Flint Hills Job Corps Center 4620 Eureka Drive Manhattan, KS 66503 785-564-4900
Great Bend Regional Service Center Kansas Department for Children and Families
1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5324 www.dcf.ks.gov
KansasWorks 1025 Main, Great Bend 620-793-5445 greatbendjobs@ks.gov
SER Corporation
1008 E. 17th St., No. 7 Hays, KS 67601, 785-623-4016 www.sercorporation.com
FAMILY PRESERVATION
Kansas Department for Children and Families
785-296-4653
1305 Patton Road, Great Bend Intensive in-home services are provided through a contract with a Child Welfare Case Management Provider.
FAMILY SERVICE
Healthy Families Kansas Children’s Service League 3520 Lakin Ave. Suite 107 Great Bend 620-603-8442 ext. 1922 Vicki Richardson
Family Engagement Coordinator 620-868-0139 (cell) vrichardson@kcsl.org
Healthy Families of Barton, Rice, Pawnee and Stafford counties is a service that partners with parents to build a community of happy, healthy, safe and smart children ready for school.
FOOD ASSISTANCE
Barton County Health Department WIC Program
1300 Kansas Avenue, Ste. B Great Bend 620-793-1909, 620-793-1902
Commission on Aging 2005 Kansas, Great Bend 620-792-3906, Brenda Lebbin
Community Food Bank of Barton County 3007 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-4001
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Commodities - Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)
Financial help with food expenses 888-369-4777
DC Kitchen 1515 Williams, Great Bend 620-282-4014
ElderCare Inc. 1121 Washington St., Great Bend 620-792-5942, 866-792-5942
Food Bank - Ellinwood 701 N. Fritz, Ellinwood 620-564-3044
Food Bank - Hoisington 467 W. 3rd St., Hoisington 620-292-7277
Great Bend Regional Service Center
Kansas Department for Children and Families 1305 Patton Road, Great Bend 620-792-5324 www.dcf.ks.gov
Meals on Wheels of Barton County 1025 Main, D114, Great Bend 620-792-1614, 620-792-1833 Also serves Ellinwood and Hoisington
The Salvation Army 2545 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-4299
FRIENDSHIP MEALS/ SENIOR MEALS
Ellinwood Heritage Center 103 N. Main, Ellinwood 620-564-3649
Great Bend Senior Center 2005 Kansas, Great Bend 620-792-3906
Hoisington Friendship House 419 East 3rd, Hoisington 620-653-2555
GRIEF SUPPORT
Always With Me - Grieving Mothers Support Group
5:30 p.m., first and third Tuesday Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas Ave. Enter through the south side door. 620-797-3527
Broken Hearts Grief Support Group 7:30 p.m. Thursday First Street Church of God 601 East 1st St., Hoisington For all types of grief. For questions call Donita Zamarripa, 620-566-7384.
Golden Belt Home Health and Hospice Grief Support Group 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays during eightweek sessions. Registration required. For location and other information call 620-792-8171 during business hours
HOME SCHOOL SUPPORT
Golden Belt Home Educators (GBHE) 620-793-7359 www.facebook.com/ GoldenBeltHomeEducators www.homeschool-life.com/KS/ gbhe
HOUSING – SUBSIDIZED
Cardinal Apartments
1400 N. Clay St., Hoisington 620-653-4342
Cedar Park Place
3910 Cedar Park Place, Great Bend, 620-793-8115
Cheyenne Village 5900 Eisenhower Ct., Great Bend 620-792-6074
Ellinwood Heights 515 S Bismark Ave., Ellinwood 620-564-2180
Great Bend Housing Authority 1101 Kansas
Great Bend, 620-793-7761
Habitat for Humanity 620-792-1232
Housing Opportunities Inc. 1313 Stone St. Great Bend 620-792-3299
Sommerset Place 5803 16th Street Terrace Great Bend 620-793-8075
Sunflower Housing 5611 10th St., Great Bend 620-792-1325
OTHER NUMBERS
Barton County Core Community 2
Support for individuals and families as they work their way out of poverty. 620-723-2727
Facebook.com/bartoncountycc Website: youthcoreministries.org
Central Kansas Partnership
A coalition of community resources and task forces website: ckpartnership.org
Communities Organizing to Promote EquityBarton County (COPE) 620-792-3299
Kansas Legal Services, Inc. 800-723-6953 www.kansaslegalservices.org
Medicaid (Customer Assistance) 816-426-5925
Tobacco Cessation 800-QUIT-NOW
PHYSICAL DISABILITIES
Living Independently in Northwest Kansas (Link) Inc. 2401 East 13th St., Hays 800-569-5926, linkinc.org
PREGNANCY
Birthright
1420 Wilson, Great Bend Betty Schneider – Director 620-792-3316, 800-550-4900
Monday 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Tuesday 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - Noon, Thursday 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas 2201 16th St., Great Bend 620-792-1393, 800-794-9756
Serving all faiths. Adoption, Teen Moms, pregnancy counseling. Help with drug & alcohol, addiction counseling, marriage education classes, & income assistance.
REINTEGRATION/ FOSTER CARE
St. Francis Ministries 1508 Main, Great Bend 620-793-7454
SUICIDE PREVENTION
Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
Dropping 22 Inc.
916 Williams St., Great Bend 620-786-0687
dropping22ks@gmail.com
Nonprofit organization to reduce the mental health gap for veterans, the military community and first responders.
VISUALLY IMPAIRED
Central Kansas Association
Visually Impaired 1:00 p.m. on fourth Monday Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas 620-617-8980 620-793-5645
620-786-0731
WEIGHT LOSS
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) No. 827
Claflin Independent Township Library Meeting Room. Monday 4:30 p.m.
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) No. 1151
First United Methodist Church 2123 Forest Ave., Great Bend Tuesday 5:30 p.m. Use the west doors.
Emergency Services
Fire departmentS
Great Bend
Fire department administrative Office and Station 1
Fire Chief Brent Smith 1205 Williams St., Great Bend 620-793-4140
Station 2 - 5851 10th St., Great Bend 620-793-4144
Service is available 24/7
Office hours 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The department provides fire protection and rescue for the City of Great Bend and the four surrounding townships. In addition, the department provides EMS response and transport to the same area plus an additional 2 1/2 townships west of Great Bend. The total population served is 20,000 people, and the average response time is 3.5 minutes in the city and 8 minutes in the county.
aLBert
Fire Chief Charles Keller 5000 3rd, Albert
The Albert Volunteer Fire Department serves the city of Albert and several surrounding townships.
BeaVer
Fire Chief Gerald Schauf 856 NE 210 Rd., Hoisington 620-639-6595
CLaFLin
Fire Chief Kyle Smith 309 W. Front, Claflin 620-587-3498
eLLinWOOd
Fire Chief Spencer Proffitt 200 W. Santa Fe, Ellinwood 620-564-3161
CLaFLin
BartOn COunty SHeriFF’S department
Sheriff Brian Bellinder 1416 Kansas Ave., Great Bend 620-793-1876
COunty JaiL
1408 Kansas Ave., Great Bend 620-793-1876
The office serves a population of about 25,400 and 894 square miles, which includes nine cities and 22 townships. VIN inspections for vehicles are done in front of the jail, 1408 Kansas Ave. Tuesdays 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and Thursdays 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
For
the Kansas Crisis Hotline
888-363-2287
animal abuse reporting 620-792-4297 or 911
Child/adult abuse reporting
800-922-5330
Childhelp®
800-422-4453
missing/abducted Children - national Center missing & exploited Children
800-843-5678
Police Chief Christopher Nixon 111 E. Hamilton, Claflin 620-587-3344
eLLinWOOd
Police Chief Chance Bailey 209 W. 1st, Ellinwood 620-564-3001
Great Bend
Police Chief Steven Haulmark 12th & Baker, Great Bend 620-793-4120
HOiSinGtOn
Police Chief Kenton Doze 109 E. 1st, Hoisington 620-653-4995
Stop it now!
888-773-8368
Child Find of america
800-426-5678, 845-883-6060
youth in trouble/runaways
800-786-2929
domestic abuse Sexual assault
888-363-2287, 888-END-Abuse 800-799-7233
rape/incest
800-656-4673, ext. 1
GaLatia
Fire Chief Don Sommers
paWnee rOCK
Fire Chief Monte Stambaugh 508 Centre, Pawnee Rock 620-617-7450
BartOn COunty
Fire diStriCt #2
HOiSinGtOn
Fire Chief Jerry Stricker 114 E. Broadway, Hoisington P.O. Box 412, Hoisington 620-786-5494
OLmitz
Fire Chief Jerry Stricker 114 E. Broadway, Hoisington P.O. Box 412, Hoisington 620-786-5494
Crime StOpperS 1217 Williams, P.O. Box 454 Great Bend 620-792-1300 or 888-305-1300
Cash rewards for anonymous information.
KBi COntaCt inFOrmatiOn 800-KS-CRIME (800-572-7463)
To report or provide information for a crime or to report any drug activity
Local Office: 625 Washington, Great Bend 620-792-4354
Topeka (Headquarters) 1620 SW Tyler, Topeka 785-296-8200
national Center for Victims of Crime 855-4-VICTIM
Fraud abuse Hotline
800-432-3913
poison Control
800-222-1222
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Who Should I Call?
You suspect child abuse?
Kansas Department for Children & Families — 620-792-5324
Barton County Sheriff — 620-793-1876
Great Bend Police — 620-793-4120
Ellinwood Police — 620-564-3001
Hoisington Police — 620-653-4995
Claflin Police — 620-587-3344
You smell gas?
Kansas Gas Service — 1-800-794-4780 (Customer Service) 1-888-482-4950 (Emergency)
You want to know if you are eligible for affordable housing?
Contact a local real estate agent
Department of Housing and Urban Development — http:www.hud.gov
Housing counseling for home buyers and renters — 1-800-569-4287
Animals found, lost or being treated cruelly?
Golden Belt Humane Society — 620-792-4297
Hoisington Animal Control Officer — 620-653-4995
You want to register to vote?
Barton County Clerk — 620-793-1835
Your water main breaks?
Great Bend City Office — 620-793-4100, after hours 620-792-3588
Ellinwood Water Department — 620-564-3161
Hoisington Water Plant — 620-653-4125
You want to know if you live in a flood zone?
Environmental Management/Zoning 1213 Baker Ave., Great Bend
Judy Goreham — 620-796-4300 https://msc.fema.gov/
You have a question about water quality?
Judy Goreham – 620-796-4300
You have a zoning question?
Barton County — Judy Goreham, 620-796-4300
Ellinwood — 620-564-3161
Great Bend — 620-793-4106
Hoisington — 620-653-4125
You know of an unsafe sidewalk or street or have a street light problem?
Great Bend — 620-793-4100
Ellinwood — 620-564-3161
Hoisington — 620-653-4125
You have a question about septic systems, water wells or need a water test for a non-public water supply?
Judy Goreham — 620-796-4300
You need a property transfer inspection when a private well and/ or private septic system is involved?
Judy Goreham — 620-796-4300
You need a building permit for an unincorporated area?
Judy Goreham — 620-796-4300
You see someone illegally dumping garbage?
Barton County Sheriff — 620-793-1867
Great Bend Police — 620-793-4120
Ellinwood Police — 620-564-3001
Hoisington Police — 620-653-4995
Claflin Police — 620-587-3344
You would like to test your home for radon?
Cottonwood Extension District Great Bend Office 3007 10th St., Great Bend Jay Harris, District Director — 620-793-1910
You have a health question?
Barton County Health Department — 620-793-1902
You need to renew your driver’s license 3520 Lakin Ave., Suite 105, Great Bend – 620-793-9531
You want to escape domestic violence? Family Crisis Center — 620-792-1885
You need a referral for day care?
Barton County Health Department — 620-793-1902
You want to donate something? Birthright 1420 Wilson St., Great Bend, 620-792-3316
Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas 2201 16th, Great Bend, 620-792-1393 catholiccharitiesswks.org
Central KS Dream Center 2100 Broadway, Great Bend, 620-282-4014 centralksdreamcenter.org
Family Crisis Center, Inc. 1924 Broadway, Great Bend, 620-792-1885 familycrisiscntr.org
Goodwill Industries of Great Bend 1705 Main, Great Bend, 620-792-4000
Salvation Army Thrift Store 2545 10th, Great Bend, 620-792-4299 salvationarmyusa.org
You want a business license?
Great Bend City Clerk — 620-793-4111
Ellinwood Administrator — 620- 564-3161
Hoisington City Clerk — 620-653-4125
Claflin City Hall — 620-587-3707
Pawnee Rock City Clerk — 620-982-4386
You have a farming question?
Cottonwood Extension District Great Bend Office — 620-793-1910
Barton County Conservation District — 620-792-3346
You want to dispose of household hazardous wastes? Barton County Landfill — 620-793-1898
You dispute your property tax appraisal? Barton County Appraisers Office — 620-793-1821
You are interested in adoption or foster care?
Catholic Social Service — 620-792-1393
Saint Francis Community Services — 620-793-7454 Emberhope – 855-260-Hope, 800-593-1950
Public Transportation
GREAT BEND MUNICIPAL AIRPORT
Martin Miller, Airport Manager 620-793-4168, 620-792-9446 greatbendairport@ruraltel.net https://www.greatbendks.net/190/ Municipal-Airport
Great Bend Municipal Airport is a fullservice regional facility serving all aspects of civil aviation and military activity. Services include self-service and full-service aviation fuels, aircraft repair and maintenance, flight training, aircraft towing and hangars.
The City and Airport own 45 aviation hangars that are leased to individuals and businesses. Military aircraft occasionally use the airport as a refueling stop and for training. It is a popular mid-America fuel stop for personal and business aircraft. Medical professionals and their staffs arrive at the airport weekly to provide services in Great Bend.
Med-Trans (EagleMed) bases an air-
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
General Public Transportation
620-792-3859, Great Bend
Transportation is available in the Great Bend city limits and in a limited radius outside town, including west to the airport, south to Redbarn, east to the GTG Peterbilt dealership, and north to Barton Community College (with special student rate).
Van hours are 6:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Mini-Bus with wheelchair lift operates from 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Let the dispatcher know if you need a wheelchair lift.
An answering machine is available after hours.
Fares in town with 24-hour advance notice
are $1.50 for one way or $3.00 for a round trip, and $1.00 for each extra stop. Fares outside of Great Bend are $8.00 per person one way.
Catch-A-Ride
620-792-7797, Great Bend
Catch-A-Ride is a service offered by Sunflower Diversified Services, Inc. Service area includes Barton, Rice, Rush, Stafford and Pawnee counties. Rides are offered from 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Passengers should schedule their rides 24 hours in advance and are subject to availability. Fare is $2.00 per person per ride.
ambulance helicopter at the airport. The City of Great Bend has an eightmember airport advisory committee that has the authority to make recommendations and advise the City Council on matters related to the airport. The airport is located at 9047 Sixth St., Great Bend.
The Great Bend Airport Airfest is set for September 20-22, 2024. See greatbendairfest.com.
Ellinwood Public Transportation 620-564-3649, Ellinwood
Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Closed Holidays
Must call at least one day in advance between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. $1.00 for each boarding - $2.00 round trip. $10.00 round trip to Great Bend (multiple stops are additional $1.00). Wheelchair occupants must be accompanied by someone (at no charge) to assist loading. First come, first served.
Our Trolley (mini-bus) 620-653-2555, Hoisington
Fare is $1.00 per person one way in Hoisington.
Hours are 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. www.hoisingtonks.org/trolley
Utilities
ELECTRIC
MIDWEST ENERGY
1025 Patton Rd., Great Bend
620-792-1301
www.mwenergy.com
Provides electricity for Albert, Beaver, Claflin, Odin, Pawnee Rock, rural areas of Great Bend.
WHEATLAND ELECTRIC
200 10th St., Great Bend
620-793-4223
www.weci.net
Provides electricity for Great Bend.
WESTERN COOPERATIVE ELECTRIC
635 S. 13th St., P.O. Box 278 WaKeeney, KS 67672
785-743-5561
www.westerncoop.com
Provides electricity for Galatia, Olmitz and Susank.
CITY OWNED ELECTRIC
ELLINWOOD
104 E. Second St., 620-564-3161
www.cityofellinwoodks.com
HOISINGTON
164 S. Elm, 620-653-4675
www.hoisingtonks.org
NATURAL GAS
MIDWEST ENERGY
1025 Patton Rd., Great Bend
620-792-1301
www.mwenergy.com
Provides natural gas for Albert, Beaver, Odin, Olmitz, Pawnee Rock and Susank.
KANSAS GAS SERVICE
7421 W. 129th St., Overland Park, KS 66213
800-794-4780
www.kansasgasservice.com
Provides natural gas for Claflin, Ellinwood, Great Bend, Hoisington.
MID-STATE CO-OP
818 West Union St., P.O. Box 195 Rush Center, KS 67575 785-372-4239
www.midstatefarmerscoop.net Provider for Galatia.
WATER & SEWERGARbAGE PICKUP
Contact your city clerk for information.
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Recycling
reCYCLInG CenterS
Great Bend
City of Great Bend self-service recycling trailer
5605 10th St.
Open 24/7
Items accepted: Plastic bottles; milk jugs; glass; newspapers; and magazines. In addition, the trailer has a large slot for cardboard, which can be broken down and slid into the trailer.
rosewood Bargain Barn
1215 Main St. - 620-796-2223
Monday-Friday
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Items accepted: Rosewood has created a place for businesses and individuals to donate quality items for sale. Proceeds benefit citizens in local communities who have disabilities.
rosewood eCycle
2200 Main St. – 620-603-8348
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
There’s an outdoor bin for 24-hour drop-off.
Items accepted: All types of electronic waste (E-waste) which means just about anything with an electrical cord (with a few noted exceptions). Rosewood ECycle accepts computers, monitors, printers, fax machines, laptops, televisions, video game consoles, DVD players and
VCRs, cameras, cellphones, telephone equipment and just about any other electronic device. Donors will receive a tax deduction receipt when they drop off working electronic equipment for re-sale.
not accepted: Microwave ovens, cathode ray tubes (CRTs) and refrigerators.
Sunflower diversified recycling and Shredding
Drop off Center
5605 10th St. – 620-793-5800
Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Items accepted: Paper, magazines and catalogs, newspapers, corrugated cardboard; plastic; aluminum (cans may be sold or donated); glass jars and bottles; steel or tin cans (rinse); glass bottles, rechargeable batteries & misc. metals; plastic bottles #1 (PET), plastic bottles #2. Anything put into the recycling stream should be clean of any food, particles, grease, etc. RINSE YOUR RECYCLING BEFORE YOU TOSS IT!
Flags are accepted for retirement.
The recycling center now accepts E-waste.
document shredding: Office paper is accepted but will not go
through the confidentialshredding process. Confidential shredding services are provided at a per pound rate. not accepted: Carbon paper, non-corrugated cardboard, books, wax paper, foil coated paper, colored plastic containers, plastic food wrap, paper towels, photographs, motor oil containers, window glass, batteries, household hazardous waste containers, plastic foam.
CLaFLIn
recycling Center
710 W. Front St.
HoISInGton
recycling Center
Parking lot of Wilson State Bank, 2nd and Main
eLLInwood
recycling Center 203 West 1st St. Open 24 hours
oLmItz
recycling trailer from Rush County picks up the first week of each month.
types of Plastic
Plastic #1, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is most frequently used in water bottles and other beverage bottles, food jars, salad dressing bottles and mouthwash bottles. The bottles are usually clear in color and not intended for multiple uses.
Ask YOUR local recycling facility whether caps should be left on the bottles or removed.
Plastic #2, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is the stiff plastic used to make milk jugs, fruit juice bottles, yogurt cups and detergent bottles.
aPPLIanCeS, tIreS & HazardoUS waSte
Barton County Landfill
350 NE 30 Rd. – Great Bend 620-793-1898
Hazardous Waste may be disposed of from 8:00 a.m. to noon on the 3rd Saturday of each month, April through October. Fee charged for appliances and tires.
CLotHInG & HoUSewareS
Salvation army Store 2545 10th St. – Great Bend 620-792-4299
Goodwill Industries 1705 Main – Great Bend 620-792-4000
ComPoSt SIteS
Great Bend
One half (1/2) mile south of Railroad Avenue on SW 6 Avenue
ellinwood 1/2 mile north of intersection of Park and 7th at the Ellinwood Airport, use first entrance south.
Hoisington 150 NE 100 Road
Available for City of Hoisington residents.
SCraP metaL
acme Pipe & Steel Inc.
700 Frey St. Great Bend 620-793-7851
Heavy metal recyclers Inc. 70 SE 16 Road Great Bend 620-388-5636
aLUmInUm CanS
Kans for Kids 24 hour drop-off at these locations:
albert 5000 3rd
Claflin 108 Main St.
ellinwood 305 E. Santa Fe Blvd.
Great Bend
2920 10th St.
700 Frey St. 2801 N. Main St.
Hoisington 201 N. Main St.
olmitz
At the Recycling Trailer
odin
Knights of Columbus
Art & Life
Calendar of Events
GREAT BEND
2024
September 13....................Alltex Trade Gun and Knife Show 14....................Loft Tour Downtown Event 20-22 Great Bend Airfest 24....................26th Annual Great Bend Tribune’s Women’s Expo
Night Out Murder Mystery
On Forest
Chamber Golf Tournament
Farmers Market Summer Street Stroll on Thursdays
October
4-5 F&E Auto Auction 5......................Rosewood Rodeo
5......................White Tails Unlimited Banquet
Competition
Supercross Shootout
Street Stroll Market Ends
Society Garage Sale
On Forest
Halloween Boo Event
November 2......................Explore GB Month: Shop Local Day 2...................... Holiday Vendor Event 9......................Explore GB Month: Open Houses
Event
16....................Explore GB Month: Find A Turkey 23....................Explore GB Month: Gobble Hunt 26....................USD 428
Education Foundation Auction
29....................Explore GB Month: Black Friday 30....................Shop Local and Win Kickoff 30....................Home for the Holidays Festival and Parade
- Cookie Contest & Window Contest
- Small Business Saturday
- Explore Great Bend Month winner chosen
- Mayor’s Tree Lighting
- Free hot dogs, hot chocolate & funnel cakes
- Santas Around the World Opens
- Trail of Lights begins
December
1......................Free Ice Skating Begins
2...................... Santa’s Workshop
6...................... GBFD 2nd Annual Holiday Extravaganza 13....................Mac Gun & Knife Show
20....................Last Day for Santas Around the World 20....................Last day for Ice Skating 31....................Trail of Lights Ends
2025
January
18.....................Beat the Winter Blues Sale & Snowball Drop
29.....................Kansas Day!
February
1.......................I Heart GB Promo Starts
1....................... CASA Chocolate Auction
28.....................I Heart GB Promo Final Winner Chosen
March
5 ......................Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge
13.....................Ladies Night Out St. Patty’s Day!
22.....................Eagle Radio’s Home & Garden Show
28.....................Family Crisis Center’s Bunco Night
April 10-12 Eggstravaganza
May
2....................... Downtown Art & Wine Walk
3.......................Cinco De Mayo Festival 10.....................Paws & Claws Car Show
30.....................Fridays on Forest Farmers Market Summer Street Stroll Season Begins in May on Thursdays
June
1-8 June Jaunt Monopoly in Stores 6-8 June Jaunt Festival
...............
For more events go to the following websites: www.greatbendks.net www.exploregreatbend.com www.greatbend.org
ALBERT
March TBD Pancake Feed Fundraiser
December
September
City Wide Garage Sales
Ellinwood EMS Chili Cook-Off
November 3......................St. Joseph Catholic Church Annual German Buffet
December
12th Annual Christkindlmarket TBD ................. Ellinwood Hospital Foundation Annual Gala
2025
April
TBD ................. Spring City Wide Garage Sales
Get-Downtown Event
July TBD City Firework Display TBD ................. 52nd Annual After Harvest Festival
Brick Street Farmers Market
Ellinwood Chamber of Commerce: www.ellinwoodchamber.com
HOISINGTON 2024
August/September
Aug. 31- Sept. 2 128th Annual Labor Day Celebration
November
Lighting and Visit with Santa
Hoisington Chamber of Commerce: www.hoisingtonkansas.com
(Dates are subject to change and events added. Watch the Great Bend Tribune for updates.)
Things To Do, See & Enjoy
ARGONNE FOREST
2100 McKinley, Great Bend 620-793-4160
• North side of Veterans Memorial Park
• Dedicted to the young men from Barton County and the surrounding area who fought in World War I with emphasis on the Battle of Argonne in Germany on Sept. 26, 1918.
• Displays, artwork, photos and signage.
B-29 BOmBER mEmORiAl PlAzA
Great Bend Municipal Airport entrance
The Great Bend Municipal Airport was constructed in 1943 as a World War II Army Air Force Base to accommodate the B-29 Superfortress bomber.
• Great Bend’s B-29 Memorial Plaza is open to visitors every day, to honor the men and women of the Great Bend Army Air Field and those involved in building, flying and providing support for the B-29 Superfortress.
• No admission charge.
• Self-guided.
ChEyENNE BOTTOmS
204 NE 60 Rd, Great Bend 620-793-3066
• The largest marsh in the interior of the United States, designated a “Wetland of International Importance”.
• The Bottoms is one of the most important ecosystems in Kansas and one of the most important migration points for shorebirds in North America.
• A mecca for bird watchers expecially during spring and fall migration.
• Hunting, primarily duck and goose, is a big draw for locals and those from other states.
• A scenic overlook is located 8 mi. East of Hoisington with a 10-foot tower for viewing bottoms. The tower is reached by a series of handicapped-accessible ramps.
CiTy BAND CONCERTS
Jack Kilby Square, Great Bend
• 8:15 p.m.
• Bring your lawn chair.
• Free concert.
• Thursday evenings in June and July but watch the Great Bend Tribune as dates vary.
ClAyTON m. mORRiSON mEmORiAl BANDShEll AND ThElmA FAyE hARmS STAGE
South side of Jack Kilby Square between Main St. and Kansas St.
• Home of the Great Bend City Band summer concert series, various events and live music during June Jaunt.
For rental information contact Community Coordinator at chayes@greatbendks.net.
DOROThy mOSES mORRiSON ChAPEl
Barton Community College 245 NE 30th Road, Great Bend 620-792-9342 https://bartonccc.edu/ publicresources/chapel
• Part of the Fine Arts Building on the BCC Campus, the chapel boasts five stained glass windows from the razed First Congregational Church in Great Bend. The chapel can be rented for events such as small weddings or performances.
• Tours are free and available by appointment.
FARmERS mARkET
• Broadway parking lot of Great Bend Public Library, Great Bend. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings in the spring, summer and fall, 7:00 a.m. - Noon.
FARmER’S mEmORiAl
K-96 Park, at the corner of K-96 and 10th St., Great Bend
• 20-foot stainless steel sculpture created by Bruce and Brent Bitter, B & B Metal Arts of Hoisington. A tribute to early pioneer families who settled Great Bend and the surrounding communities.
59 NW 50 Rd., Great Bend
• Honoring Barton County Veterans from all six branches of the military from the Civil War until today.
• Project paid for through donations, call 620-793-1800 for information. Details also found at www.bartoncounty.org and on the County’s social media pages.
• Four stones are in place with the names of over 1,000 veterans.
GREAT BEND AliVE – FiNAl FRiDAyS ON FOREST
Forest Avenue comes alive the last Friday of the month from April to October. Meet your friends on Forest Ave. in downtown Great Bend for some fun! Adult beverages, entertainment, food trucks and games for the kids. Contact Lee Ann June at Great Bend Economic Development.
GREAT BEND’S ART & WiNE WAlk
First Friday in May, come on downtown and stroll through the participating stores. See artists displaying their wares and sample some wine. A fun and popular event! Contact Christina Hayes, Convention and Visitors Bureau at 620-792-2750.
hEARTlAND FARm
www.heartlandfarm-ks.org
1049 CR 390, Pawnee Rock, 620-923-4585
hfarm@gbta.net
Facebook: HeartlandFarmKS
• Non-profit ministry of the Dominican Sisters of Peace.
• Registered agritourism operator.
• Tours and visitors welcome by appointment.
• Workshops and demonstrations year-round.
• Open-air pavilion, gift shop, arts and fiber studio, walking trails, and labyrinth.
• Organically-managed gardens. Find us at the Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market!
• Great spaces for bird watching.
• Guest housing available for individuals and groups up to 9.
• Official hosting site for Harvest Host.
• Day, short-term, and long-term volunteer opportunities.
• Home to a herd of lovable alpacas.
Downtown Great Bend
• The grounds that surround the Barton County Courthouse.
• Massive bronze sculpture created by local artist Chet Cale entitled “The Gift.”
• Splash pad.
• Holiday lights.
• Festivals.
• Concerts
• Ice Skating
• Farmers Market.
• Band Shell can be reserved for special events.
GOlDEN BElT VETERANS’ mEmORiAl
JACk kilBy SquARE
Top 10 Things to Do at Cheyenne Bottoms
What comes to mind when someone says Cheyenne Bottoms? Many local residents have memories and stories of their experiences at Cheyenne Bottoms. It’s a local jewel and an amazing natural resource we should all be proud of. Cheyenne Bottoms is a 41,000 acre wetland complex designated a Wetland of International Importance due to its importance as a stopover for migrating birds along the Central Flyway. It is located 10 miles north of Great Bend. If you have never experienced Cheyenne Bottoms (or even if you have), here are 10 activities you need to put on your bucket list this year:
1. Visit the Kansas Wetlands Education Center (KWEC). Located at the southeast corner of Cheyenne Bottoms on K-156 Highway, KWEC is free and your one-stop-shop for every visit to Cheyenne Bottoms. Visit http://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu
2. Check out a Sunrise or Sunset at the Cheyenne Bottoms K-4 Overlook. The Overlook is the best view of the Cheyenne Bottoms basin. It includes an observation tower.
3. Visit Cheyenne Bottoms at least once each season of the year. Every season is different and the wetlands are dynamic. Take advantage of each season’s beauty.
4. Go bird watching at Cheyenne Bottoms. With over 350 species of birds documented, Cheyenne Bottoms is one of the best birding spots in the central United States.
5. Take your camera and snap some photos of wildlife. Deer, turtles, and muskrats, oh my! All sorts of wildlife give ample opportunities for nature photography.
6. Experience Cheyenne Bottoms at night. Cheyenne Bottoms provides some of the darkest skies in the area, with very little light pollution. In the summer, the Milky Way is usually easy to see. And, nighttime sounds in the wetlands can be fun to listen to.
7. Go hunting at Cheyenne Bottoms. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area provides over 13,000 acres of public hunting for waterfowl, upland birds, turkeys, and deer.
8. Take a driving tour of Cheyenne Bottoms. KWEC offers 30 and 90 minute guided van tours of Cheyenne Bottoms. Or, over 20 miles of public roads meander through the wetlands for your own self-guided tour.
9. Take a hike! Start with KWEC’s half-mile nature trail to see animal tracks, birds, and other critters. You also can walk on several foot-traffic only dikes in the wetlands.
10. Attend a nature program at KWEC. Public programs and special events are held throughout the year for all ages with topics such as bird watching, nature crafts, Monarch tagging, and much more.
Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo
The lion exhibit at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo saw major improvements over the past year. The male and the two females each have their own yards so they can spend more time outdoors. New sidewalks and fencing make the area safe for the public and the animals.
Great Bend’s Zoo is dedicated to the conservation, preservation and rescue of animals and to the education and entertainment of children and adults. The zoo staff also treats wounded birds of prey, known as raptors.
The Raptor Center, includes a gift shop, restrooms,
and small animal exhibits. There are wagons and other accessories available to rent.
Outdoors, find the Bill McKown Memorial Pavilion, a gazebo located next to a freshwater pond. There is also a playground area. Zoo Supervisor and Curator Ashley Burdick noted these areas are easily accessible for those in wheelchairs and strollers; there’s even a wheelchair friendly swing in the playground.
Some of the newer animals are a pair of Eastern collared lizards, a pot-bellied pig and a Kune Kune pig.
Open year-round (except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Thanksgiving) from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the zoo is fun and educational — and admission is free! A membership to the Great Bend Zoological Society is $25 for an entire family and provides special benefits while supporting zoo projects.
POlliNATOR GARDEN
Troy Schroeder
On the west side of the old Albert School on NW 130 Ave. on the western edge of the town of Albert.
• A mown path provides access to native plants with pollinator insects present.
• Additional wildflowers can be seen in strips adjacent to K96 on the South side running from CR390 (Otis Road) to a half mile west. Maximillian sunflowers with their showy yellow flowers should be in full bloom in early September. These were planted through a USDA program.
SANTAS AROuND ThE WORlD
1223 Main St., Great Bend, 620-792-2536
• Open around 6:30 p.m., following the Home for the Holiday Parade on Nov. 30, 2024.
REGULAR HOLIDAY HOURS DECEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 23
Saturday & Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
By Appointment: Contact Mike, info@RosewoodServices.com 620-792-2536, https://www.santasaroundtheworld.com/ Admission is a freewill donation.
Presented by the Rosewood Roots and Wings Foundation.
SummER STREET STROll FARmERS mARkET
• Jack Kilby Square, downtown, Great Bend.
• Thursday nights, 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. May - October.
• Contact the Barton County Health Department for details or to become a vendor.
TRAil OF liGhTS GREAT BEND
•Our light displays twinkle in various places around town, Brit Spaugh Park & Zoo, Jack Kilby Square, Veteran’s Memorial Park, K96 Hwy & 10th and MORE! Many light displays have been crafted by the City Park Department Employees. For more information contact Great Bend Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, 620-792-2750 or City of Great Bend 620-793-4111. www.exploregreatbend.com
muSEumS AND hiSTORiCAl SiTES
BARTON COuNTy hiSTORiCAl SOCiETy muSEum & VillAGE
85 S. U.S. 281 Hwy., Great Bend, 620-793-5125
• Located south of Great Bend on US 281, across the Arkansas River Bridge, the Village boasts several authentically furnished period buildings including a one-room school house, a church, a pioneer cabin and a Lustron home. Collections tell the story of this area from the Paleo Period through the Indian Wars to World War II and beyond. The church is available for rent.
• Admission $5 for non-members 16 & older.
Summer Hours (April - October)
Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Winter Hours (November-March)
Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
ClAFliN muSEum
406 N. Main Street, Claflin 620-786-9307 or 620-793-0546
• Open by appointment only and on major holidays.
• Housed on the second floor of the old Claflin Grade School with over 4,000 items and old photographs.
• Pertains mainly to the history of northern Barton County, including the towns of Claflin, Odin, Beaver, Hitschmann, Dubuque and Sts. Peter & Paul Church.
• Free Admission.
• Self-guided tour, spend as much time as you like.
ElliNWOOD uNDERGROuND
TOuR
1 N. Main St. Ellinwood, KS 67526 Northwest corner of Main & Santa Fe, U.S. 56 at the stoplight. To make tour reservations call 620-617-6915 or 620-564-2400 or historicwolfhotel.com. Tours are conducted only by advance reservation. Tours are offered at 11:00 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and at 2:00 p.m. every third Sunday of the month. Admission $15/adult for full tour - kids 0-5/free and 5-10/$7.50. Call for details.
• Built in 1887 and listed on the Kansas State Historical Register and the National Register of Historic places.
• Tunnels originally connected the business district.
• Original flooring, wallpaper, and barber’s mirror.
• Tunnels under the Dick Building and the Historic Wolf Hotel.
• Prohibition era Speakeasy open on Friday and Saturday nights.
• Period style lunch the 3rd Sunday of every month.
• Hotel open year around by reservation.
620-793-3781 ~ 2010 Forest Avenue Great Bend, KS 67530
FORT zARAh
East of Great Bend on Hwy. 56
• Roadside park located near one of the two original locations of the fort.
• Fort was established in 1864 to help protect mail service along the Santa Fe Trail.
hOiSiNGTON hiSTORy muSEum
120 E. 2nd, Hoisington, 620-786-5975 or 785-483-1250
• Call for appointment.
• Facebook - Hoisington History Museum.
kANSAS Oil & GAS hAll OF FAmE & muSEum
5944 10th St., Great Bend https://www.ksoilandgasmuseum.com/
• Displaying the history of the oil & gas industry, geography of Kansas, and much more.
• The Kansas Energy Education Center offers an interactive space for youth programming.
• The Biggs Conference Room is available for private party rentals.
• The Hall of Fame Room highlights with photos and information the pioneers of the Kansas oil and gas industry.
• Hours: By appointment. Contact Dee Volpert, director, at 620-786-9320 for more information.
muSEum OF ElliNWOOD
104 N. Main, Ellinwood, 620-564-2886 ellinwoodhistoricalsociety.com
• Open Thursday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Open mid-April until October. Or by appointment.
• Check Museum of Ellinwood facebook for information or the Ellinwood Community Historical Society web page.
Carlson 620-796-2113
1121 Washington St. Ste B, Great Bend 620-796-2113 620-786-4657 mdc.rehinsurance@gmail.com
12 miles west of Great Bend on U.S. 56 Hwy., Pawnee Rock
• Natural landmark along the Santa Fe Trail. In the trail days it was 30 feet higher than it is today. A pavilion atop the rock, erected through the efforts of several women’s service clubs a century ago, indicates the original height before the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad took the top portion of the rock to use as fill in railroad construction.
• Enjoy a panoramic view across the prairie.
• Carving in rocks mark where travelers on the Santa Fe trail paused in their journeys, some as far back as the early 1800s.
SANTA FE TRAil
Barton County is proud of the trail history and heritage. There are four sites tributed to the trail and these include: Walnut Creek Ranch, Fort Zarah, Barton Co. Historical Museum And Pawnee Rock. From Plum Buttes to the Walnut Creek Crossing to Pawnee Rock, the area that is now Barton County played a major role in the history of the Santa Fe Trail. In 2021, the Santa Fe Trail commemorated its 200th Anniversary.
• Big Bend of the Arkansas River — This was the next overnight campground after leaving Cow Creek and the only reliable source of water in the area. Located on the west edge of Ellinwood.
• Walnut Creek Crossing — Located east of Great Bend. Also known as Allison Booth Ranch and Peacock Ranch. From 1855 through 1872, a number of enterprises were located there, including a trading post (ranch), stage station, post office, toll bridge, Camp Dunlap and Fort Zarah.
SRCA DRAG STRiP
West of Great Bend at the air strip.
In 1954, organized drag racing in Great Bend brought auto and speed enthusiasts together at the former B-29 air strip west of the city. In 1994 the drag strip was placed on the Register of Historic Kansas Places. The track closed for repairs for the 2023 season but hope to be open and racing again.
FINAL FRIDAYS ON FOREST!
ThEATER
ThEATER
GOlDEN BElT CiNEmA 6
1222 Kansas Ave., Great Bend, 620-792-5769
• Movies shown Thursday - Sunday.
GREAT BEND COmmuNiTy ThEATRE
Crest Theater
1905 Lakin Ave., Great Bend 620-792-4228
• Renovated former movie theater.
• Live performances.
• Available for rent.
OThER ThEATER PRODuCTiONS
• BCC hosts plays, dance recitals and musical productions.
• Barton County high schools host plays.
Watch the Great Bend Tribune for dates and times.
ART
ART
ShAFER ART GAllERy
Barton Community College
245 NE 30th Road, Great Bend 620-792-9342
https://www.bartonccc.edu/community/shafergallery
• Attached to the Fine Arts Building on BCC campus.
• Featuring trending regional and national artists.
• Workshops and family activities.
• Free admission, open year round Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Tour groups welcome.
• Gallery is closed for most college observed holidays.
BARTON ARTS mOVEmENT
This volunteer-led initiative exists to create community pride through public art. Since 2020, 12 new mural projects have been installed across Barton County.
Artistic Points of interest in Great Bend: Williams Street - murals at the intersections of 12th St., Forest Ave., and 16th St. Main Street - between Charlie’s Place and Dilly & Doc Creative Studio
Art Alley - located downtown behind Dry Lake Brewing, between Williams & Main St. 10th & Washington St. Area murals:
115 N. Main Street in Hoisington 16 N. Main Street in Ellinwood
108 Main Street & 111 4th Street in Claflin
Go to www.bartonartsmovement.com for more information
PAWNEE ROCk hiSTORiC STATE SiTE
Libraries
Libraries are more than just books. Check out these libraries to see what other activities they also offer. Some towns in Barton County have lending libraries too.
Claflin Independent Township Library
108 Main St./P.O. Box 163 620-587-3488 claflin.mykansaslibrary.org
Pam Atteberry, librarian email claflin.itlibrary@gmail.com
Hours: Monday, 2:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; Thursday 1:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - noon. Closed Sunday and Wednesday.
Ellinwood School/Community Library
210 N. Schiller Ave. 620-564-2306 hslibrary.usd355.org
Sheri Holmes, director email sholmes@usd355.org
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Closed Sunday. www.facebook.com/ellinwoodlibrary/
Great Bend Public Library 1409 Williams St. 620-792-2409 www.greatbendpl.info email gbcirc@greatbendpl.info
Hannah Grippin, outreach manager Follow GBPC on Facebook
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed Sunday.
Hoisington
Public Library
169 S. Walnut St. 620-653-4128 hoisingtonpl.weebly.com
Karen Lapierre, director email library@hoisingtonks.org
Hours: Monday and Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, noon to 6:00 p.m.; Saturday; 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Closed Sunday.
The Success of the Fair Continues!
The carnival was a big success this past year and will again be part of the entertainment lineup for 2025. More exciting entertainment will grace the stage as planning continues for the next year. Check out our website for exciting updates throughout the year.
Barton County Fair Association was established, and its humble beginnings started in 1992 at the Expo Complex with the livestock under a tent. Now the Fair Association is operating the Expo Buildings in cooperation with the city of Great Bend, a long way from under the big top. As one of the youngest fairs in Kansas we are also the most recognized fairs in the state by the International Association of Fairs and Expositions.
The Barton County Fair Association is dedicated to the enhancement of Agriculture and the Youth of Barton County and the surrounding area, while providing opportunities for all people to gain a sense of pride in their community. The Barton County Fair Association will provide the best possible entertainment, educational activities and competitive exhibits for the enjoyment of all individuals.
The Barton County 4-H clubs are a big part of the fair each year, not only in the exhibit halls, but serving the public. They host the annual Business Appreciation Breakfast and work hard at the 4-H Barbecue the last day of the fair that can’t be beat, with your choice of sit-down dining or carry-out for dinner at home. As they develop life skills to use throughout life, they also have a lot of fun.
The county fair is not the only project that the Far Association is involved in during the year. We host the Holiday Home Tour each December and provide rental opportunities for the public with the three Expo Buildings.
The Barton County Fair Association appreciates our volunteers, sponsors and partners for their support over the years and we encourage everyone to come be part of our family during one of our upcoming events.
Barton County Fair Association www.bartoncountyfair.com
Recreation
MY
GB
GB
GB
GB
IMAGINATION
CAVANAUGH
VETERAN’S
GB
GB
City Parks and Playgrounds
GREAT BEND
Great Bend Brit Spaugh
Park and Zoo
2123 Main St., Great Bend
Includes Tot Spot playground for smaller children and larger playground for older children. Skateboard arena, located immediately northwest of the zoo, is open during regular park hours (6:00 a.m. to midnight). Users must bring their own skateboards and safety equipment. Visitors to the park can enjoy several ramps and other trick props. Users of the park are urged to use the facility with extreme caution. The City of Great Bend accepts no liability for injuries that result through usage of the park.
Harms Park
2305 Heizer, Great Bend
Heizer Park
Eighth and Heizer, Great Bend
Santa Fe Trail Park
10th and Frey, Great Bend
Veterans Memorial Park
4800 17th St. Terrace
Great Bend
Lots to do here. Fitness trail, Argonne Forest, disc golf, ballparks,
tennis courts, sand volleyball, 12 acre lake, fishing, shelter houses, and includes toddler playground for smaller children and larger playground for older children.
Dog Park
Northwest side of Veterans Memorial Park at 17th and McKinley, open daily.
Jack Kilby Square
Barton County Courthouse Square, Great Bend
You may know this park better by the name Jack Kilby Square, thanks to the legacy of Nobel Prize winner Jack Kilby, who is featured in a bronze statue on the west side. Seven quilt blocks are set in the sidewalks surrounding the square. The south side of the park is used for the Summer Street Stroll Farmers Market and other activities. After Thanksgiving until New Year’s, the synthetic ice skating rink is open, with free skate rental, watch the Great Bend Tribune for the hours.
My Backyard Playground & Ninja Course
At the Great Bend Rec Activity Center 2715 18th, Great Bend
HOISINGTON
Bicentennial Park
West 7th & Monroe, Hoisington
Playground, tennis courts, ballfields, horseshoe pits, walking trail, pickleball courts.
Heritage Park
Clay & 3rd, Hoisington
East Park 3rd & Pine, Hoisington
CLAFLIN
Claflin City Park
400 W. Front, Claflin Corner of Main & Albro, Claflin
ELLINWOOD
Ellinwood City Park 7th and Park, Ellinwood Includes a shelter, playground equipment, and basketball court
Leisure Activities & Water Fun
YOUTH AND ADULT ACTIVITIES
See your local Recreation Centers for more seasonal youth sports and lessons.
Claflin Recreation Commission
406 Main St., Claflin 620-588-4321 claflinrec.weebly.com
Ellinwood Recreation Commission 13 N. Main St., Ellinwood 620-566-7323 ellinwoodrec@gmail.com www.ellinwoodrec.com
Great Bend Recreation Commission
Carl Soden Recreation Center
1214 Stone St., Great Bend Great Bend Activity Center 2715 18th St., Great Bend 620-793-3755 greatbendrec.com
Hoisington Recreation Commission
1200 Susank Road, Hoisington 620-653-4050
FacebookHoisingtonrecreationcommission
SWIMMING
Barton Community College
245 NE 30 Road, Great Bend 620-786-1144 www.bartonsports.com/publicresources
Claflin
Municipal Swimming Pool
400 W. Front St. 620-588-3655 www.cityofclaflin.com/city-pool
Ellinwood
Municipal Swimming Pool and Splash Pad
512 W. 6th St., 620-564-3441 www.cityofellinwoodks.com/services/pool/ Free splash pad is located next to the pool.
Great Bend
Wetlands Waterpark 2303 Main, 620-792-1516 or 620-793-4111 www.greatbendwaterpark.com
Splash Pads
1400 Main, Great Bend
The free pad is located on the south side of the Barton County Courthouse. 4800 17th St. Terrace, Great Bend This free pad is located at Veterans Park
Hoisington
Municipal Swimming Pool 721 N. Center St., 620-653-2535 www.hoisingtonks.org/swimming-pool
Wetlands Waterpark
When summer arrives, there’s one local attraction that’s guaranteed to make a splash: the Great Bend aquatic center – Wetlands Waterpark.
Weather permitting, the pool is open from 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. daily from Memorial Day weekend in May to mid-August. Once things heat up, the pool is also open for Family Nights from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It’s located in Brit Spaugh Park at 2303 Main St., next to the Brit Spaugh Zoo.
More than just a municipal swimming pool, the water park’s fun wetlands artwork and big play features make it a unique, regional attraction.
The pool features seven water slides, zero-depth entry for small children, spray features, floatables that separate the deep end from the shallow end, a climbing wall and a 300 gallon tipping bucket that periodically spills onto those who dare to stand under it.
For those taking a break in the shaded areas, there are brightly colored umbrellas and a concession stand. Visitors can also find green grass and a bathhouse for changing.
Admission to the Wetlands is $3 for youths 3-17 years old, $4 for adults 18 and older, and free for children under 3. Admission on Family Nights is $2, and discount passes good for 15 visits are available for $40. The aquatic center is also available for private parties and special events. For more information call 620-792-1516 during the pool season. Outside of the pool season contact Parks Superintendent Scott Keeler at the City Office, 620-793-4111.
The Great Bend Recreation Commission offers summer swimming lessons taught by American Red Cross Certified Water Safety Instructors and GBRC water safety aides. For more information contact Recreation Program Coordinator Megan Hammeke by calling 620-792-2604.
Youth & Adult Sports
YOUTH SPORTS
See your local recreation centers for seasonal youth sports and lessons.
BASEBALL
Great Bend Bat Cats (collegiate) Roger Ward, 620-282-6159
AMERICAN LEGION
Great Bend Braves (17 under) Randy Beck, 620-793-2191
BOMBERS BASEBALL
Mike Minton, 620-617-8007
HOISINGTON LITTLE LEAGUE
Hoisington Recreation 620-653-4050
BASKETBALL
Barton Summer League
Barton Athletic Office 620-792-9377
Mid-America Youth (MAYB) 316-284-0354 mayb@mayb.com www.mayb.com
BOWLING
Walnut Bowl
3101 North Washington Great Bend 620-793-9400
BOXING
Silver Boy Boxing Club
Silverto Garcia, 620-282-1836 Jefferson & 8th, Great Bend Membership required
DANCE
Aly’s Dance Studio 620-617-1933
Be Dance Studio 620-617-3813
Euphoria Dance Centre 620-617-0517
FOOTBALL
Mid States Football League
Great Bend
Rex Kern, 620-791-8464
Sunflower State Youth Football
Hoisington Gene Mooney, 785-445-5151
SWKYFL
Ellinwood Justin Joiner, 620-791-7032 joinerjustin@yahoo.com
GOLF COURSES
Claflin Golf Course NE 150 Ave, Claflin, K-156, 2 miles east, ½-mile North of Claflin
Grove Park Golf Course 407 West 3rd, Ellinwood 620-564-3123
Lake Barton Golf Course 673 US 281 North Between Great Bend and Hoisington 620-653-4255
DISC GOLF COURSES
Veterans Memorial Park 2100 McKinley, Great Bend
Barton Community College 245 NE 30 Road, Great Bend
MINIATURE GOLF
Walnut Bowl 311 North Washington Great Bend 620-793-9400
GYMNASTICS
Thompson Gymnastics 620-617-2457 thompsongymnastics@gmail. com
SOCCER
Great Bend United FC Jesus Loera, 620-953-1715 greatbendunitedfc@gmail.com
Great Bend Panthers Eduardo Vallez 620-617-3071
Panthers United Girls Juan Segura/Armando Leyva 620-797-9659
SOFTBALL
Quicksilver Ty Brunswig, 620-617-2181
SWIM TEAM
Golden Belt Swim Squad Ryan Gregg gbssswim@gmail.com
VOLLEYBALL
Heart of America/USA Volleyball (17 and under) www.hoavb.org
Velocity Volleyball Club Greg, Becca Maxwell 620-617-1594
KIDS WRESTLING
Great Bend Wrestling Club Brandon Chansler 620-617-3410 gbwrestlingclub@gmail.com gbkwc@hotmail.com
Hoisington Cardinal Wrestling Kody Cook 620-617-5258
Hike, Bike, & More
HORSESHOES
DROp-in HORSESHOES
Horseshoe pits located at Brit Spaugh Park across from Park School in Great Bend. Call the Great Bend Recreation Commission 620-793-3755 for league times and dates.
HiKE OR BiKE
RivER HiKE. BiKE TRail
Travel South on Washington to Stone Lake. Across the dike is a double track to the west between the dike and river. After 1/4-mile there is a single track going left into the trees. Trail is 7 miles.
laKE BaRTOn
MOunTain BiKE TRail
Travel North on U.S. 281 from Great Bend to NW 60 Road. Turn left at former 4-H Building. Signs direct to a 2-mile loop, The single-track route is a dirt/ mountain bike trail. The 1.8-mile walking trail takes an average of 33 minutes. Trail is perfect for birding, hiking, and mountain biking.
OFF-ROaDinG
CEnTRal KanSaS OFFROaD aSSOCiaTiOn
Mike Madden for membership information. One mile south of K-156 on Radium Road (Radium bridge). Facebook (Central Kansas OffRoad Association).
WalKinG TRailS
Claflin
Tradition Trail & City loop
Both are popular trails used by residents - directions can be found on bartoncounty.org
Great Bend
Clara Barton Hospital
Walking path 906 McKinley
Great Bend levee Trail
West Barton County Road and Locust Street. The Great Bend Levee Trail runs atop the flood control levee on the north bank of the Arkansas River on the edge of Great Bend. Users will encounter rural, suburban and industrial environments. The trail offers views of the Arkansas River and nearby farming operations.
Great Bend Fit Trail
Veterans Memorial Park 2100 McKinley, Great Bend
The Fit Trail features 11 outdoor workout machines.
Kansas Wetlands
Education Center
George Stumps Trail 592 NE K-156, Great Bend. The 0.4-mile loop trail takes an average of 7 minutes to complete. The popular trail for birding and walking is open year-round.
Hoisington
Clara Barton Hospital
Walking path
250 W. 9th St., Hoisington
Bicentennial park
Walking path
Along U.S. 281 and K-4 in Hoisington
Ready to Restart?
a progressive valve manufacturer is always looking for qualified candidates to fill our positions.To apply for current opportunities visit our website today www.cashco.com under the careers tab fill out the application or call Jill Brantley, Personnel 785-422-6036 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. EEO/AAD/ADA Employer
Hunting & Fishing
FiSHinG anD BOaTinG
Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife area
620-793-7730
56 NE 40th Road
Hunting, fishing, trails, bird watching. Kansas Dept. of Wildlife, & Parks.
Rotary lake
7th & McArthur, Great Bend
Scott Keeler, Parks Director, 620-793-4160
Public access.
Stone lake
Washington St. & Railroad Ave. Great Bend
Scott Keeler, Parks Director, 620-793-4160
Public access.
Picnic area, nature trail. Must follow motor, fishing regulations.
veterans Memorial park and lake
4800 17th St. Terrace, Great Bend
Scott Keeler, Parks Director 620-793-4160
Public access.
No motors, must follow fishing regulations.
Wolf pond
West U.S. 56, Ellinwood 620-564-3161
Public access.
Must follow fishing regulations.
puRCHaSE a FiSHinG anD HunTinG liCEnSES aT:
Barton County Clerk 1400 Main, Great Bend 620-793-8835
Eagle Gun and Coin 214 E Santa Fe, Ellinwood 620-566-7239
p&S Security
255 West Barton Co. Road Great Bend 620-796-2133
Sutherlands 5520 10th, Great Bend 620-792-2900
HunTER SaFETY COuRSES
Great Bend Recreation Commission 620-793-3755
Barton County Sheriff’s Office
620-793-1876
The BCSO offers concealed carry classes.
Wal-Mart 3503 10th, Great Bend 620-792-3632
All sandhill crane hunters must take the online crane identification test each year before hunting sandhill cranes.
Any person under the age of 21 who wishes to operate a vessel designed to be propelled by a motor or sail (motorboat, PWC, sailboat, sailboard) without being under direct and audible supervision must complete an approved boater education course.
Kansas Department of Wildlife & parks
https://ksoutdoors.com/services/ education/hunter
The Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner (620-793-3066) supervises hunting at the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area northeast of Great Bend. A yearly hunting schedule is available at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, or online at www.ksoutdoors.com. For 24-hour and current conditions, call (620-793-7730).
Business Overview
Barton County offers a rich and diverse cultural heritage, but it also has nice shopping and dining experiences.
From antique stores to coffee shops to a winery and a brewery, to local and chain restaurants, to unique shops and boutiques, opportunities abound in the county’s communities. With hotels, bed and breakfasts and Airbnbs, one can spend a day or weekend exploring what is available.
Folks in the communities are finding ways to tap into the economy that is being fueled by outside gatherings that include food trucks and other vendors. Several businesses find they are enjoying those profits also.
Weekend sporting events bring in tourism dollars .........
Live here? Then enjoy the many amenities offered in larger cities right here at home.
Pull Factor: the relative strength of the retail business community. The county pull factor is computed by dividing the per capita sales tax of a county by the statewide per capita sales tax. A value greater than 1.0 indicates local businesses are pulling trade from beyond the county borders. A county pull factor value less than 1.00 indicates more trade is being lost than pulled in, that residents are shopping outside the county. Barton County’s 2023 Pull Factor was 1.02. Great Bend’s pull factor in 2022 was 1.50.
Then there is agriculture and industry. Home to Fuller Industries, Essex Manufacturing, Rotomix and other manufacturers, products made in the county fill shelves across the nation and around the globe. The Great Bend Transload facility near the Great Bend Municipal Airport serves as a link between the railroads and highways to move items to all four corners of the world. South Bend Industrial Hemp is finding a niche for its products and a candle factory in Barton County has turned an empty building on a main street into a fun destination.
Great Bend Appliance, Furniture & SleepSource
celebrates 26 years of business
There are always going to be choices and challenges in life, but when a door opens wide, it’s advisable to walk through it, notes Great Bend’s Dale Pruter.
A quarter-century ago, Pruter and his wife Sherry were faced with a big decision in coming to Great Bend, he said.
“At the time, it was pretty scary,” he said. “It felt like it probably wouldn’t have happened any other place or to any other people in the world, but it happened to us.”
As it turned out, it was the right move.
The long way ‘round
Before getting to Great Bend, Dale and Sherry took the long way round, he said.
Dale and Sherry met and married in Russell. They then traveled to Clay Center, where they purchased the local Sears appliance and catalog store.
In 1993, their store was caught up in Sears’ major corporate refit, closing 113 stores across the country, discontinuing its iconic “big book” catalog, and saying goodbye to 50,000 employees.
“It was a good business and a great learning experience for us,” Pruter said.
Dale landed a job with Jim’s Appliance in Inman, which provided name-brand sales and service in a 45-mile radius en route to becoming the largest independent dealer in the state, Pruter noted. He was with the company for five years, but in 1998, the door opened wide.
“The Whirlpool store in Great Bend was closing, and the company was recruiting me to come to Great Bend and take over the one that they wanted to open up,” Pruter said. At the same time, the job of journalism teacher had opened up at Great Bend High School, which was a perfect fit for Sherry.
“I can say that I was scared to go, because there were other appliance stores already operating in Great Bend at that time,” Pruter said. “But our church pastor called us into the office and said that if the door is open that wide, we should go ahead and walk through.
A small start
Pruter’s Great Bend Appliance “three-stores-in-one” operation with its 20 employees of today began with the appliance floorspace at the front of the building. “It started with just my wife and me,” he said. Their affiliation with BrandSource expanded the nature of the inventory and Pruter acquired the floorspace to accommodate it. “When we started, it was just appliances, which people need,” Pruter said. ““Now we have our beds, which people also need, and also the furniture room, which is what people want.”
Later on, they outfitted the back into appliance repair.
“We just grew into the whole block; it just kept going,” he said.
The expansion celebrated its 20th year in June.
“It’s a challenge for people right now, it’s a hard time to start a business, but there is always hope,” Pruter said. “Coming here has been a God thing for us. It has really all worked out.”
Employees include Eric Rostine, Kenny Pruter, Steven Nagel, Rachel Nagel, Eric Johnson, Audra Rostine, Chonny Simonson, Teresa Wondra, Shelly Post, Pablo Ibarra, Michael “Mo” Oberle, Tammy Komarek, Daniel Hammeke, Chris Jeska, Kevin Wondra, Kenny Harman, Kathy Riggs, and Nick Farmer.
Specializing in
Design & Service
Ag Systems, Inc. 810 E 14th/U.S. 56, Larned has serviced this area since 1974.
Rocke Foster, Manager has worked in irrigation design & service since 1997. The service department of 8 factorytrained technicians has more than 200 years of combined experience. For service or irrigation design, contact Rocke Foster, Tyson Atteberry, Justin Woods, Monte Hirsh, Bryan VanSickle, or Joshua Detherage.
They service and stock parts for all brands of center pivots covering an area from Dodge City to Ellinwood and Hays to Pratt.
Valley Center Pivots are celebrating 60 plus years of service and are committing all of their future years in conserving water with the newest innovations in sprinkler packages and computerized panels.
To better serve their customers, Valley Center Pivot Dealer, Ag Systems, Inc. of Larned, provides insurance services for all
major brands of irrigation equipment.
Debora Fox-Johnson is licensed by the state of Kansas and Nebraska to write policies through Diversified Agrisurance. Diversified has been insuring and financing center pivots, new and used, for more than 40 years. They are the largest single insurer of irrigation equipment. Contact Debora for your “no obligation” quote for your insurance needs.
Services at Ag Systems include a well stocked parts department carrying McCrometer flow meters, galvanized check valves, and Ag Sense monitors. They are now using technology to enhance water management with Valley Scheduling and Valley 365. Contact Rocke Foster or Justin Woods for more information
Ag Systems is committed to offering the best Service, Parts, and Irrigation Design for years to come.
Fuller has long history, looking to grow
Based in Great Bend with a rich heritage dating back over a century to the Fuller Brush Man, Fuller Industries is a leading American manufacturer of industrial products, including cleaning chemicals and supplies, as well as brooms, mops, brushes and more. Fuller serves manufacturing, commercial, institutional and agricultural clients nationwide.
“We serve a wide variety of customers across the country with products that improve efficiency,” said Joe Mann, Fuller vice president and general manager. “We are and have been an innovative leader in this field for decades.”
At the same time, “we believe it is important for us to be a
part of this place we call home,” he said. The company and its employees are involved in the community, supporting the Chamber of Commerce and by participating in other activities.
Now, Fuller is seeking to expand and needs additional team members to help make that happen, he said. The company has job openings to match a wide variety of career interests.
“We would love to have anyone looking to start a new career path to consider Fuller,” Mann said. “We want you to come grow with us.”
Call 620-792-1711 or visit Fullerindustriesllc.com.
Agriculture
Agriculture in Barton County, Kansas: Cultivating Tradition and Innovation
Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Barton County, Kansas, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of American agriculture. With its rich soil and favorable climate, this region has long been a cornerstone of Kansas’s agricultural sector, combining tradition with modern innovation to thrive in a rapidly changing industry.
A Rich Agricultural Heritage
Barton County’s agricultural legacy began in the late 19th century, when settlers were drawn to the area’s fertile land and expansive prairies. Over the decades, farming in Barton County has evolved from small-scale operations to a diverse and dynamic agricultural community. Today, the county remains a vital contributor to Kansas’s agricultural output, known for its substantial production of wheat, corn, soybeans, and milo.
The Backbone of Barton County: Wheat Farming
Wheat farming has been a cornerstone of Barton County’s agricultural economy since its early days. The county’s dryland wheat production benefits from the region’s ideal growing conditions and dedicated farming practices. Each year, Barton County produces thousands of bushels of wheat, contributing significantly to both local and national markets. The county’s commitment to wheat farming is reflected in its robust infrastructure and support systems, including grain elevators and milling facilities.
Diverse Crops and Modern Practices
In addition to wheat, Barton County’s farmers cultivate a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, and milo. These crops benefit from the county’s well-managed irrigation systems and advanced farming techniques. Modern technology, such as precision agriculture and data-driven farming practices, has been increasingly adopted, allowing local farmers to optimize yields and manage resources more efficiently.
Raising Livestock: A Growing Sector
While crop farming is prominent, Barton County also has a significant livestock sector. The county is home to a variety of livestock operations, including cattle ranches and hog farms. These operations contribute to the county’s agricultural diversity and support local markets. The integration of sustainable practices and innovative technologies in livestock management has been a focus, helping to enhance productivity and animal welfare.
Agricultural Innovation and Sustainability
Barton County’s agricultural community is deeply invested in sustainability and innovation. Local farmers and agricultural organizations are actively engaged in practices that promote soil health, water conservation, and environmental stewardship. Initiatives such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and efficient irrigation systems are being implemented to ensure that agriculture in Barton County remains sustainable for future generations.
Supporting the Agricultural Community
The agricultural sector in Barton County benefits from a strong network of support, including local organizations, extension services, and educational programs. Barton Community College plays a key role in providing agricultural education and training, helping to prepare the next generation of farmers and agricultural professionals. Through workshops, seminars, and hands-on training, the college supports the county’s agricultural community in staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies.
Community and Economic Impact
Agriculture is more than just a livelihood in Barton County; it is a way of life that shapes the community and economy. The sector supports numerous local businesses, from equipment dealers to grain processors, and provides employment opportunities for many residents. Annual events such as county fairs and agricultural expos celebrate the importance of farming and foster a sense of community pride.
Photo submitted by Mary Ann June
Ag Systems Inc. 810 E. 14th St. (U.S. 56), Larned, only wants the best for their Customers. That is why they utilize Diversified Agrisurance for their Customers’ center pivot insurance needs. Trouble – even disaster – can happen in the blink of an eye. Don’t wait until you have a claim to find out what is and isn’t covered!
When choosing an insurance provider for your “major brand” center pivots, it is important to pick a Company that knows and understands the irrigation business. Diversified Agrisurance has over 50 years of experience and has become the single largest insurer of mechanized irrigation equipment in the nation! Coverage is provided through Central States Indemnity Co. of Omaha, an A+ rated Insurance Company.
Their policy covers most direct physical losses to covered property. Unlike most of the competitors, their policies do not depreciate the value of the equipment in the event of a
loss. They pay full cost, less deductible, on pivots up to 35 years of age, to repair or replace, whichever is less, up to the insured value shown on the policy. In addition, coverage is available for sudden structural damage to your pivot caused by or resulting from mechanical or electrical failure for qualifying pivots less than 35 years old. Limited coverage is available on pivots over 35 years of age.
Claims always seem to happen at the most inopportune time – usually within the heart of irrigation season. Ag Systems Inc. promises to get you up and running as quick as possible – Diversified Agrisurance can settle most claims quickly with an estimate, photos of damage, and simple proof of loss form!
Is it time for a Center Pivot Insurance Checkup? They have competitive premiums! Feel free to stop in or call Debora Fox-Johnson for your “No Obligation” Quote.
Agrisurance
Barton County has historically been a pivotal contributor to Kansas’s oil and gas industry. Its rich geological formations and historical significance have made it a central player in both the local and broader energy economies.
The county’s involvement in oil production began in the early 20th century, marked by an initial boom characterized by rapid exploration and drilling. This surge in activity led to a notable economic uplift, turning towns like Great Bend and Ellinwood into bustling centers of industry with oil rigs and supporting infrastructure rapidly altering the landscape. This period of intense development brought significant economic benefits, including job creation and the stimulation of local businesses.
While the early days of the oil industry brought considerable economic benefits, they also introduced volatility. Fluctuating oil prices had a significant impact on the local economy, influencing businesses, infrastructure development, and community dynamics. The subsequent discovery of natural gas fields further cemented Barton County’s importance within the energy sector.
Barton County’s oil and gas industry has evolved signifi-
cantly from its early days of exploration and drilling. Today, it continues to play a crucial role in the local and state economy, driven by advanced technologies and a commitment to environmental responsibility. As the industry adapts to new challenges and opportunities, Barton County remains a key player in Kansas’s energy landscape, reflecting both its historical significance and its ongoing contributions to the energy sector.
Barton County currently has 1665 oil wells and 14 gas wells. To date in 2024, 461,776 barrels of oil have been produced and 53,907 mcf of natural gas.
Geological Formations:
Mississippian: This formation is one of the primary sources of oil in the region. It’s known for producing significant quantities of oil and is a key target for drilling.
Arbuckle: Another important formation, the Arbuckle, often associated with both oil and gas production.
Marmaton: This formation has been tapped for oil in the past, though it’s less prolific compared to the Mississippian and Arbuckle.
For the most up-to-date and specific information about oil and gas wells in and around Great Bend, Kansas, you can consult:
- Kansas Geological Survey (KGS): They provide detailed geological and production data.
- Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC): They oversee the regulation and reporting of oil and gas wells in Kansas.
- Industry Reports and Databases: Industry organizations and databases provide detailed well records and production statistics.
These resources can help you find detailed information about individual wells, including their locations, production history, and current status.
Health
Giving Blood
Barton County citizens are given several different opportunities to donate blood for the American Red Cross.
Great Bend blood drive coordinator Corry Herrman has dealt with American Red Cross blood drives since 1991. She notes that the Red Cross blood supply relies on the generosity of volunteer donors.
“Not everyone can donate blood. Currently, only three out of every 100 people in America do. But every 2 seconds someone in this country needs blood, and the Red Cross needs not only its faithful donors of the past but new contributors as well.
“The donation can add days, perhaps years, to the life of someone in need,” Herrman said. “We need more blood donors constantly because some of our regular donors may be unable to donate and the need is constant,” says Herrman.
“Even those who cannot donate can help organize blood drives at their place of work, churches, schools or organizations to which they belong. Or they can assist at selected drives or Red Cross centers. The Red Cross also encourages current donors to share their experiences with friends and bring them to donate with them.”
Watch the Great Bend Tribune for news on blood drives or check the American Red Cross site https://www.redcrossblood.org and find the sites where drives are going to be held in Barton County.
Immunization Requirements for the 2024-2025 School Year
K.S.A. 72 - 6261 - Kansas Statutes Related to School Immunizations Requirements and K.A.R. 28-1-20, published July,18, 2019 in the Kansas Register, defines the immunizations required for school and early childhood program attendance.
• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP/Tdap): Five doses required. Doses should be given at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years (prior to kindergarten entry). The 4th dose may be given as early as 12 months of age, if at least 6 months have elapsed since dose 3. The 5th dose is not necessary if the 4th dose was administered at age 4 years or older. A dose of Tdap is required at entry to 7th grade (11-12 years).
• Hepatitis A (Hep A): Two doses required. Doses should be given at 12-23 months with a minimum interval of 6 months between the 1st and 2nd dose.
• Hepatitis B (Hep B): Three doses required. Doses should be given at birth, 1-2 months, and 6-18 months. Minimum age for the final dose is 24 weeks.
• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Two doses required. Doses should be given at 12-15 months and 4-6 years (prior to kindergarten entry). Minimum age is 12 months and interval between doses may be as short as 28 days.
• Meningococcal-Serogroup A,C,W,Y (MenACWY): Two doses required. Doses should be given at entry to 7th grade (11-12 years) and 11th grade (16-18 years). For children 16-18 years, with no previous MenACWY, only one dose is required.
• Poliomyelitis(IPV/OPV): Four doses required. Doses should be given at 2 months, 4 months, 6-18 months, and 4- 6 years (prior to kindergarten entry). Three doses are acceptable if 3rd dose was given after 4 years of age and at least 6 months have elapsed since dose 2.
• Varicella (Chickenpox): Two doses are required. Doses should be given at 12-15 months and 4-6 years (prior to kindergarten entry). The 2nd dose may be administered as early as 3 months after the 1st dose, however, a dose administered after a 4-week interval is considered valid. No doses are required when student has history of varicella disease documented by a licensed physician.
Legal alter natives to school vaccination requirements are found in K.S.A. 72-6262. In addition, to the immunizations required for school entry the following vaccines are recommended to protect students:
• Human Papillomavirus(HPV): Two doses recommended at 11 years of age or three doses if the series is started after 15 years.
• Influenza and COVID-19: Annual vaccination recommended for all ages > 6 months of age. Number of doses is dependent on age and number of doses given in previous years.
ADULT IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULES MAY BE FOUND ON THE BARTON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT WEBSITE www.bartoncounty.org
CLARA BARTON MEDICAL CENTER
250 W. 9th, Hoisington • 620-653-2114
CLARA BARTON MEDICAL CLINIC
252 W. 9th, Hoisington • 620-653-2386
Nathan Knackstedt, DO | Internal Medicine
T. Scott Webb, DO | Family Practice
Kyle Renner, MD | Family Practice
Kayla Johnson, MD | Pediatrics
Ken Baxa, DO | Rheumatology
Debra Brockel, PA Phillip Barnes, PA
Kelci Burkey, PA-C Taylor Bieberle, PA-C
Jenna Anderson, PA-C Brandi Lowe, PA-C
Morgan Feldkamp, PA-C
Tania Wirtz, APRN
Therapy Services
Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy
250 W. 9th, Hoisington • 620-653-5065
CLARA BARTON MEDICAL CLINIC GREAT BEND
906 McKinley, Great Bend • 620-793-6900
T. Scott Webb, DO | Family Practice
Kyle Renner, MD | Family Practice
Mercedes Ryan, MD | Pediatrics
Kelci Burkey, PA-C Jenna Anderson, PA-C
Taylor Bieberle, PA-C Brandi Lowe, PA-C Morgan Feldkamp, PA-C
CLARA BARTON SPECIALTY OuTREACH CLINICS
252 W. 9th St., Hoisington
Cardiology
Bassem Chehab, MD 316-265-1308
2nd and 3rd Monday
Costy Mattar, MD 620-669-2717
Second Tuesday
Neurosurgery
Scott Boswell, MD 785-823-1032
Fourth Tuesday
Pain Management
Daren Badura, PA-C 970-469-7048
2nd and 4th Wednesday
Jason Werth, CRNA 970-469-7048
1st & 3rd Thursday
Orthopedics
Randall Hildebrand, MD 620-792-4383
Third Friday
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Christine Sanders, MD 800-779-6979
Second Wednesday
Sports Medicine
Kevin Klug, MD 785-452-7366
First Monday
urology
Andrew Jensen, MD 316-636-6100
Third Thursday
906 McKinley, Great Bend
Nephrology
Amanda Valliant, MD 316-263-5891
First Monday and Tuesday
Neurosurgery
Scott Boswell, MD 785-823-1032
Second Tuesday
CLARA BARTON SuRGICAL SERvICES
252 W 9th Street, Ste. B, Hoisington • 620-653-4191
P.J. Stiles, MD • Roxanne Stiles, MD • Jeremy Howes, MD, FACS Leah Alpers, PA-C Ashley Boxberger, PA-C
Clara Barton Clara Barton
Pediatric Care
Caring for your family through every stage of life!
Dr. Kayla Johnson Pediatrician Brandi Lowe, PA-C
Dr. Mercedes Ryan Pediatrician
Nurses Honor Guard
In the heart of health care lies an often unsung hero: the nurse. These compassionate caregivers dedicate their lives to healing, comfort, and support for patients and families in times of need.
In Wichita, Kansas, a group known as the Nurses Honor Guard has been conducting brief ceremonies in honor and recognition of the individual’s commitment and dedication to science and the practice of nursing. Recently, they honored their friend and colleague in nursing, Sharon Bowers, at her memorial service. Sharon was an LPN until returning to school at Barton Community College and getting pinned with her RN in 1981. While working as a RN, she shared her gift with patients at Central Kansas Medical Center, Cherry Village Nursing Home, and Larned State Hospital.
The Nurses Honor Guard of Wichita was originally formed to honor retiring nurses, but this volunteer group has expanded its mission to include commemorating milestones such as graduation ceremonies, anniversaries, and sadly, memorial services for fallen colleagues.
The idea is simple yet profound: to give nurses the acknowledgment they deserve. Dressed in their traditional white uniforms adorned with distinctive capes, the honor guard members create a dignified presence at events, offering a respectful tribute to their fellow nurses. It’s a gesture that resonates deeply within the
nursing community, celebrating their unwavering commitment to health care.
Although, this is the first time the Nurses Honor Guard has been in Great Bend, they would like to establish a presence in the Great Bend area.
Expanding to having a unit in Great Bend would enrich local health-care traditions but also ensures that the dedication of nurses does not go unnoticed. It’s about fostering a culture where nurses feel valued, respected, and empowered to continue their vital work with renewed passion. The
organization is volunteer and there is no charge for their service.
If you are active in nursing or have been a nurse and are interested in helping this group be formed, please contact Sandy Morey, RN at nowamsam@hotmail.com
The journey ahead for the Nurses Honor Guard of Great Bend is one of hope, dedication, and community spirit. It’s a call to action for those who believe in the power of recognition and the importance of honoring those who dedicate their lives to the care of others.
Your family’s guide to better health.
Great health starts with great primary care – and at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Family Medicine, you’ll find quality and convenience. With same-day appointments, extended hours, telehealth options and our complete range of primary care services for all ages, we are your whole family’s connection to better health.
New patients welcome! We are open five days a week, with evening hours until 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday. Call now for an appointment: 620-804-6007.
Arlo Reimer, MD Susan Aistrup, APRN Kathryn Buchanan, APRN
Heather Holaday, APRN
Marley Palmer, APRN
Education
Public Schools
USD 428 - GREAT BEND
Mascot: Panthers
District Education Center
1809 24th St., Great Bend 620-793-1500, 620-793-1585 (fax) 1809 24th St., Great Bend www.GreatBendSchools.net
Superintendent Khris Thexton 620-793-1500
The Board of Education
meets at 5:00 p.m. the second Monday of each month at the District Education Center
Schools and Principals
Great Bend High School 2027 Morton, Great Bend 620-793-1521
Principal: Brock Funke
Activities Director: Matthew Westerhaus
Great Bend Middle School 1919 Harrison, Great Bend
Myron Ellegood, 620-793-1510
Eisenhower Elementary School 1212 Garfield, Great Bend
Abigail Jonas, 620-793-1501
Jefferson Elementary School 2716 24th, Great Bend
Adam Niedens, 620-793-1502
Lincoln Elementary School 5630 Broadway, Great Bend
Misty Straub, 620-793-1503
Park Elementary School 1801 Williams, Great Bend
Kelsey Sciacca, 620-793-1505
Riley Elementary School 1515 10th, Great Bend
Beth Rein, 620-793-1506
Barton County Special Services Cooperative 1809 24th St., Great Bend
Ashley Riley, 620-793-1550
Parent Teacher
Resource Center 2535 Lakin, Great Bend 620-793-1633
USD 431 - HOISINGTON
Mascot: Cardinals
District Education Center
165 West Third, Hoisington 620-653-4134, 620-653-4073 (fax) www.usd431.net
Superintendent Patrick Crowdis pcrowdis@usd431.net 620-653-4134
The Board of Education meets at 7:00 p.m. the first Monday of each month at Education Center 165 West Third, Hoisington
Schools and Principals
Hoisington Middle School
360 W. 11th, Hoisington Bob Brungardt, 620-653-4951 bbrungardt@usd431.net
Hoisington High School
218 E. 7th, Hoisington Joel Mason, 620-653-2141 jmason@usd431.net
Athletic Director Faron Craft fcraft@usd431.net 620-653-2141
Lincoln Elementary School
516 N. Pine, Hoisington Karisa Cowan, 620-653-4549 kcowan@usd431.net
Roosevelt Elementary and Pre-School
315 N. Vine, Hoisington Shellby Walker, 620-653-4470 swalker@usd431.net
Hoisington Cardinal football lost during the 2A - State Football Championship game against Seneca-Nemaha Central HS in
Mascot: Eagles
District Education Center
300 N. Schiller, Ellinwood 620-564-3226, 620-564-2206 (fax) www.usd355.org
Superintendent Ben Jacobs 620-564-3226
The Board of Education meets at 6:00 p.m. the second Monday of each month at Ellinwood Schools Community Library 210 N. Schiller, Ellinwood
Schools and Principals
Ellinwood Grade School
310 E. 6th, Ellinwood Joel Kahnt, 620-564-2750
Ellinwood Middle School
210 E. 2nd, Ellinwood Mark Cook, 620-564-3136
Ellinwood High School
210 E. 2nd, Ellinwood Mark Cook, 620-564-3136
USD 355 - ELLINWOOD
Barton County
Salina.
The 2024 Ellinwood High School golfers took second place at the Kansas State High School 2A state tournament. Drew Heinz (third from the left) captured a 2A state title.
USD 112 - CENTRAL PLAINS
Mascot: Oilers
District Education Center
406 Main, PO Box 176 Claflin, KS 67525
620-588-4200 620-588-4202 (fax) www.usd112.org
Superintendent Bobby Murphy bmurphy@usd112.org
The Board of Education meets at 6:00 p.m. the second Monday at the district education center.
Schools and Principals
Central Plains
Elementary School
600 S. Main, Holyrood
Jane Oeser, 785-252-3666
Central Plains Jr.-Sr.
High School
700 Albro, Claflin
Jessica Murphy, 620-587-3801
Athletic Director Pat Stiles
Wilson Elementary School Mascot: Dragons
3005 Ave. D, P.O. Box 220, Wilson, KS
Karin Mohr, 785-658-2202, 785-658-3555
Athletic Director Tony Brokes
Lakeside Learning Center 785-658-2460 lakeside@usd112.org
The Claflin Oilers boys team had a 3rd place finish at the Midwinter Classic Tournament.
The Claflin Oilers girls team had a 3rd place finish at the Midwinter Classic Tournament.
Independent Schools
Holy Family School
PAROCHIAL AND PRIVATE
Central Kansas Christian Academy (private K-8) 215 McKinley, Great Bend 620-792-3477 dottie.dozier@ckcacademy.com Dottie Dozier, Administrator www.ckcacademy.com
Holy Family School (parochial pre-school-6) 4200 Broadway, Great Bend Debbie Hagans, 620-793-3265 office@gbholyfamily.org
St. Joseph’s School (parochial K-8) 111 W. 3rd, Ellinwood Cami Thomas, Lead Teacher 620-564-2721 cthomas@stjosephellinwood. com
Seventh Day Adventist Church and Elementary School (parochial K-8) 7 SW 30 Ave., Great Bend 620-793-9247
PRE-SCHOOL
Barton Community College Child Development Center 245 NE 30th Rd., Great Bend 620-792-9360
Bright Beginnings by ABCC Inc.
4507 Farmers Plaza Lane, Great Bend 620-796-2392 admin@abccubc.org
Great Bend Children’s Learning Center 1802 22nd, Great Bend 620-792-2421
Holy Family School 4200 Broadway, Great Bend 620-793-3265
Lamb’s Gate
Christian Preschool 210 S. McKinley, Great Bend 620-792-3343
Little Blessings Preschool Trinity Lutheran Church 2701 24th, Great Bend 620-793-8816
Little Panthers Preschool Great Bend Public SchoolsUSD 428 1809 24th St., Great Bend Tandi Mai, 620-793-1662
Noah’s Ark Preschool
First United Methodist Church 2123 Forest, Great Bend 620-793-3451 napdirector@gbfumc.org
Roosevelt Preschool
315 N. Vine, Hoisington 620-653-4470
St. John Lutheran Child Development Center
615 N. Main and 512 N. Wilhelm, Ellinwood 620-564-2885
Sunflower Diversified Services, Inc. Incredible Years Preschool 1312 Patton, Great Bend 620-792-4087
USD 112 Central Plains 600 S. Main, Holyrood 785-252-3666
AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT
Barton Community College Child Development Center 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend 620-792-9360
GPS Kids Club
352 W. 12th, Hoisington 620-292-6114 gpskidsclub@yahoo.com
TLC Discoveries
Trinity Lutheran Church 2701 24th, Great Bend 620-793-8816
St. John Lutheran Child Development Center 615 N. Main and 512 N. Wilhelm, Ellinwood 620-564-2885
SPECIAL NEEDS
Early Childhood
Special Education Services 2535 Lakin, Great Bend 620-793-1508
Sunflower Diversified Services, Inc.
Early Education Center 1312 Patton, Great Bend 620-792-4087
SPECIAL NEEDS VOCATIONAL
Pathways, ResCare Inc. 2317 Washington, Great Bend, 620-793-8501
Residential, Day Program, Vocational, Case Management, Health Maintenance.
Rosewood Services 384 N. Washington, Ave. Great Bend 620-793-5888, 620-793-8393 (fax) www.rosewoodservices.com
Sunflower Diversified Services, Inc. 8823 4th St., Great Bend 620-792-1321 www.sunflowerdiv.com
OTHER EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Barton County Academy/ ESSDACK
Rachel Ellson 1705 K96, Great Bend 620-792-7995
https://www.essdack.org/LC/ barton-county-academy
A wide variety of classes are available. Students can earn their diploma. Offer English as a Second Language.
Center for Adult Basic Education 1025 Main (Upstairs), Great Bend 620-793-5794
online: bartonccc.edu/community/ adulted. Basic math and reading, English as a Second Language, workplace literacy, GED tutors, free practice tests, final tests.
TRIO Central Kansas Educational Opportunity Center 1025 Main (Downstairs, D-108), Great Bend, 620-786-7565 online: bartonccc.edu/supportservices/ eoc
Free services include academic adviser; career exploration and advising; assessments of academic skills and financial needs; information about vocational/technical schools, colleges and universities; assistance with applications for admission and financial aid, reference library.
COLLEGES
Barton Community College 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend 620-792-2701 www.bartonccc. edu (GoBarton.com)
K-State at Barton Science and Math Building Room S-105 245 NE 30 Rd., Great Bend 620-786-1188
Bend’s
took first place in Class 5-6A wrestling.
Great
Daizy Gomez (130)
The Great Bend High School womens’ bowling team were crowned Class 5A state champions of the 2024 season. They were state champions in 2023 also.
Hoisington High School students took seven events to the state forensics festival.
Ellinwood Middle School Scholar Bowl Team
Barton Community College
Just two miles northeast of Great Bend, Kansas, Barton Community College stands as a beacon of educational opportunity and community support. Since its inception in 1969, Barton has grown from a local educational initiative into a comprehensive institution dedicated to serving thousands of students each year.
The college’s 160-acre main campus, with its picturesque landscape and modern facilities, is a testament to Barton’s commitment to providing a diverse range of educational programs and services. From traditional general education courses to specialized career and technical training, Barton offers something for everyone. Students can explore fine and performing arts, pursue GED courses, take advantage of transfer options, or engage in online classes—all designed to cater to a variety of academic and career goals.
Barton’s athletic program is a standout feature, boasting an impressive 60 national championships. This achievement underscores the college’s dedication to fostering excellence both in and out of the classroom. For those seeking a more immersive college experience, Barton provides
on-campus housing for over 400 students, ensuring a supportive and vibrant living environment.
In addition to its strong academic and athletic programs, Barton Community College is a leader in supporting military personnel and their families. Designated as a Military Friendly School, Barton operates full-service campuses at Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth. The Fort Riley campus, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2024, has long been a cornerstone for providing educational access to active military members and their families. Since its establishment in 2012, the Fort Leavenworth campus has also seen steady growth, further cementing Barton’s commitment to serving those who serve our country.
Barton’s reach extends beyond its main campus and military locations with the operation of Camp Aldrich. This 290-acre event center, surrounded by rolling hills and grasslands, offers a unique venue for various events, complemented by comfortable lodging facilities. It reflects Barton’s dedication to providing not only educational opportunities but also spaces for community and personal enrichment.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Barton Community College remains steadfast in its mission to deliver exceptional and affordable learning opportunities.
Barton is known for its PN and RN Nursing program, as well as CNA and CMA certifications. BCC celebrated the new Agriculture and Transportation Complex in July 2024.
Barton County Elected Officials
Bev Schmeidler
County Clerk/Election Officer
1400 Main, Suite 202, Great Bend 620-793-1835 • 620-793-1990 fax
This office has bookkeeping and records keeping responsibilities; real estate transfer record – records transfer of ownership from deeds filed with the register of deeds, probates, divorce decrees, death certificates, etc.; Issues Fish and Game licenses, large game permits, etc.; Certification of valuation; Certifies Tax Rolls to the County Treasurer; Prepares homestead/food sales tax returns for low income or elderly persons; Prepares financial reports to the state of Kansas; Acts as the official election officer.
Brian Bellendir Sheriff
1416 Kansas, Great Bend 620-793-1876 • 620-793-1885 fax
James Jordan County Treasurer
1400 Main, Suite 107, Great Bend 620-793-1831 • 620-793-1978 fax
This office acts as a collection agency for the county. It is responsible for collection of all taxes and distributes tax money to all taxing units in the county. For vehicle registrations and title workproof of insurance is required. Real estate and personal property taxes are due and payable on or before Dec. 20. First half must be paid at that time, second half due by May 10 the following year. Personal property becomes due and payable in full if the first half is not paid by Dec. 20. Personal property includes boats, campers, trailers, motor bikes, etc. Oil and gas is considered to be personal property.
The Barton County Sheriff’s Office serves an estimated population of 24,740, which includes nine cities, and 22 townships. Additionally, the sheriff’s office provides assistance to municipal police departments and assists state and federal law enforcement agencies. It is also equipped with specialized units, such as the Crisis Response Team, K-9 Unit, and a Reserve Deputy Force.
In addition to investigation and patrol duties, the department also maintains the county’s detention facility. The Civil Process Officer serves and executes legal papers, garnishments, divorce papers, protection from abuse orders, evictions, mental petitions, and other legal papers.
M. Levi Morris
County Attorney
1400 Main, Suite 302, Great Bend 620-793-1851 • 620-793-1855 fax barton.cntyatty@bartoncounty.net
The county attorney is the chief law enforcement officer in Barton County.
This office handles felony crimes, select misdemeanor and traffic prosecutions. These cases include murder, rape, robbery, juvenile offenses, care and treatment actions, child in need of care, criminal appeals, select traffic offenses, and many others.
Faith Community Church
293 W. Barton County Rd., Great Bend
City: Pawnee Rock
Townships: Buffalo, Clarence, Great Bend B, Liberty, Pawnee Rock, South Bend
Hoisington Activity Center
1200 Susank Rd., Hoisington Meeting Room, Arts & Crafts Room Cities: Hoisington, All Wards, Albert, Galatia, Olmitz, Susank
Townships: Albion, Eureka, Fairview, Grant, North Homestead, South Homestead, Union, Walnut-Albert, Walnut-Olmitz, Wheatland
Glennda French Register of Deeds
1400 Main, Suite 205, Great Bend 620-793-1849
This office is charged with recording and preserving all land records. This office has custody of and safely keeps and preserves all the books, records, deeds, maps, papers and microphotographs deposited or kept in the office of the Register of Deeds. The office also records or causes to be recorded all deeds, mortgages, maps, instruments and writings authorized by law to be recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, maintains county school records, Uniform Commercial Code and corporation records, processes passports for the general public and is responsible for the private sale of lots or transfer of ownership through another means for both County owned cemeteries. All records in the office of the Register of Deeds are open records except for the Kansas Real Estate Sales Validation Questionnaire which is open to those protesting their taxes, Kansas Certified General Real Property Appraisers, Bankers and Realtors.
St. Joseph Parish Center
110 W. 2nd St., Ellinwood
City: Ellinwood
Townships: Comanche, Lakin
Immaculate Conception
Parish Hall
110 E. Williamson St., Claflin
Cities: Beaver, Claflin, Odin Townships: Beaver, Cheyenne, Cleveland, Independent, Logan
Sheriff Training Facility
396 NE 30 Rd.
Township: Great Bend A Township
GBRC Activity Center
2715 18th St., Great Bend
Great Bend 1st Ward - all precincts
Prince of Peace Parish Hall
4124 Broadway Ave., Great Bend
Great Bend 2nd Ward - all precincts
Grace Community Church
210 McKinley St., Great Bend
Great Bend 3rd Ward - all precincts
Great Bend Recreation Center
Burnside Room
1214 Stone St., Great Bend
Great Bend 4th Ward - all precincts
Voting places in Barton County:
Barton County Commissioners
Barton County Commission Districts
Barton County Department Directory
Appraise
r Wendy Prosser, RMA
1400 Main, Suite 206, Great Bend
620-793-1821, 620-793-1820 fax
Duties include: This office has the responsibility to discover, list, appraise and maintain records of data relating to all taxable and exempt real and personal property within the county.
Central Kansas Community Corrections
Brooke Haulmark
1806 12th St., Great Bend
620-793-1940, 620-793-1893 fax
Communications / 911 Director
Dena Popp
1300 Stone, Great Bend 620-793-1920
Duties include: Provides emergency dispatching services for Barton County Sheriff, police departments of Claflin, Ellinwood, Great Bend and Hoisington, Kansas Highway Patrol, and all fire departments and emergency medical services in the county.
Emergency Management and Risk Management
Sean Kelly
1400 Main, Suite 108, Great Bend 620-793-1919, 620-786-4450 cell
620-793-1983 fax
Services Provided: This department provides emergency preparedness functions to prevent, minimize, and repair injury and damage resulting from disasters.
Provides public education and information to encourage personal emergency management. In addition, risk management and safety functions for Barton County are handled by this department.
Engineering
Barry McManaman, PE
1400 Main, Suite 108, Great Bend 620-793-1808
Services Provided: Plans, develops and maintains the county’s infrastructure to provide safe travel and enhance the life of Barton County citizens. Coordinates related activities with cities, townships and other governmental units.
Environmental Management/Zoning
Judy Goreham
1213 Baker Ave., Great Bend 620-796-4300, 620-792-9905 cell 620-796-2282 fax
Duties include: Enforces the Barton County Environmental & Sanitary Code. Permitting includes water wells, septic systems, licensing of wastewater contractors, water testing, property transfer inspections and environmental assistance. It also enforces the Barton County Zoning Regulations, the Barton County Nuisance Code and licenses fireworks stands that are in unincorporated areas of the county. It also handles most of the Floodplain Regulations compliance for the unincorporated areas.
Facilities Management
Pam Christendon
1400 Main, Suite 108, Great Bend 620-793-1873, 620-793-1807 fax
County Administrator
Matt Patzner
1400 Main, Suite 108, Great Bend 620-793-1800, 620-793-1807 fax
Duties include: In-house fiscal responsibilities, investments, payroll and some community development.
Operations generally involves budget management, staff supervision, fleet and asset control and other duties as assigned by the Board of Barton County Commissioners.
Health Director
Karen Winkelman
1300 Kansas, Suite B, Great Bend 620-793-1902, 620-793-1903 fax
Information Technology
Dereck Hollingshead
1400 Main, Suite 201, Great Bend 620-793-1841, 620-793-1990 fax
Provides technical support to all county offices.
Juvenile Intake and Assessment Services (JIAS)
Marissa Woodmansee 1213 Baker Ave., Great Bend 620-793-1930, 620-793-1977 fax
The Kansas Driver’s License Office is no longer located in the Barton County Courthouse.
The new office is located at 3520 Lakin Ave., Suite 105, Great Bend 620-793-9531
Landfill
Solid Waste Landfill
Jennifer Hamby
350 NE 30 Road, Great Bend
Hours - Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Closed holidays and severe windy days 620-793-1898, 620-786-9485 cell 620-793-1899 fax
Services Provided: Solid Waste Management, Environmental Compliance, Household Hazardous Waste Program.
• Household Hazardous Waste collections are scheduled the third Saturday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to noon at the landfill, AprilOctober (weather permitting). Check website for other locations, www.bartoncounty.org. By appointment, Monday through Friday. Citizens may contact the Barton County Landfill for more information, 620-793-1898.
• The program is is free of charge. Hazardous waste from commercial businesses is not allowed.
• What is allowed includes: Herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, any gardening chemical, household cleaners, automotive cleaners or fluids, all paint related products, and batteries. The facility does not accept agricultural pesticides over 2.5 gallons or 10 pounds total volume per customer. Check website for complete list and requirements. There is also a giveaway program of these items, call for information.
Road and Bridge/Noxious Weeds/ Memorial Parks & Cemeteries, Road and Bridge
Darren Williams
2401 7th St., P.O. Box 518, Great Bend 620-793-1816
Noxious Weeds: 2300 6th St., P.O. Box 518, Great Bend 620-793-1936, 620-793-1938 fax
Memorial Parks & Cemeteries: 1400 Main, Suite 205, Great Bend 620-793-1816
ALBION
Township Officials
Clerk—Rocky Meitner, 620-653-7596 or 620-282-8633,1280 NW 60 Ave. Olmitz, KS 67564
Treasurer—Sarah Younger, 620-617-3021 773 NW 160 Rd., Olmitz, KS 67564
Trustee—Raymond V. Christians 620-653-7684, 532 NW 160 Rd. Hoisington, Kansas 67544
BEAVER
Clerk—Scott Schlochtermeier, 620-639-6595
856 NE 210 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544
Treasurer—Terry R. Miller, 620-786-5385 573 1st Ave., Beaver, KS 67525
Trustee—Jennifer Steinert, 620-791-8755 1922 Main, Beaver, KS 67525
BUFFALO
Clerk—Kent Romine, 620-793-2985 674 SW 10 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530
Treasurer—Russell Carson, 620-793-2666 441 NW 70 Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530
Trustee—Herbert L. Phillips, 620-797-1639 578 NW 40 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530
CHEYENNE
Clerk—John Lamatsch, 620-587-9977 1396 Lewis–Odin, Claflin, KS 67525
Treasurer—Francis J. Debes, 620-587-3668 or 620-786-4501, 749 NE 130 Rd. Claflin, KS 67525
Trustee—John Klug, 620-587-3952 908 St. Stephan Ave., Claflin, KS 67525
CLARENCE
Clerk—Dennis Comer, 620-923-4688 172 NW 140 Ave., Albert, KS 67511
Treasurer—LaVerne Oetken, 620-793-6905 1116 NW 10 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530
Trustee—David LeRoy, 620-793-7153 or 620791-7193, 955 NW 20 Rd. Great Bend, KS 67530
CLEVELAND
Clerk—Brian Hoffman, 620-587-2348 or 620-562-7619, 1938 NE 100 Ave. Claflin, KS 67525
Treasurer—Kevin Wirth 620-587-3687 or 620-791-7874 2150 NE 110 Ave., Claflin, KS 67525
Trustee—Greg Lamatsch, 620-587-3856 1080 NE 190 Rd., Claflin, KS 67525
COMANCHE
Clerk—Linda Borror, 620-564-2484 1043 SE 20 Rd., Ellinwood, KS 67526
Treasurer—Barry Borror, 620-566-3187 1043 SE 20 Rd., Ellinwood, KS 67526
Trustee—Kenneth Spangenberg 620-786-4230, 573 SE 80 Ave. Ellinwood, KS 67526
EUREKA
Clerk—Michael McCurry, 620-791-8622 232 NW 100 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544
Treasurer—Luke Keener, 620-617-4667 850 NW 50 Ave., Olmitz, KS 67564
Trustee—Gary A. Tindall, 620-653-4688 or 786-0911, 995 NW 40 Ave. Hoisington, KS 67544
FAIRVIEW
Clerk—Mark Urban, Phone NA, 883 NW 200 Rd., Olmitz, KS 67564
Treasurer—Dennis N. Steinert
620-935-4333 or 620-923-5489
2257 NW 80 Ave., Russell, KS 67665
Trustee—David W. Keil, 785-445-5175 1007 NW 220 Rd., Russell, KS 67665
GRANT
Clerk—Mark Stos, 620-786-7017 1333 NW 150 Rd., Otis, KS 67565
Treasurer—Daphyna Epperson 620-617-0014, 1249 NW 150 Rd. Otis, KS 67565
Trustee—Joe F. Axman, 620-586-3274 898 NW 140 Rd., Olmitz, KS 67564
GREAT BEND
Clerk—R.L. Engle, 620-793-7767 1314 College View Dr. Great Bend, KS 67530
Treasurer—Mike Snyder, 620-793-7043 48 NW 48 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530
Trustee—Denis Bachand, 620-792-1932
304 NE 30 Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530
INDEPENDENT
Clerk—Ryan Oeser, 620-282-3449
109 B St., P.O. Box 184, Claflin, KS 67525
Treasurer—James J. Debes, 620-786-1342
310 E. Hamilton, P.O. Box 45 Claflin, KS 67525
Trustee—Randy Oeser, 620-588-2362 or 620617-7967, 101 6th, Claflin, KS 67525
LAKIN
Clerk—Aaron Birzer, 620-564-2130 or 620-786-1555, 1146 NE 20 Rd. Ellinwood, KS 67526
Treasurer—Corey Robl, 620-786-6810 996 NE 10 Rd., Ellinwood, KS 67526
Trustee—Mark Knop, 410 E. 6th St. Ellinwood, KS 67526
LIBERTY
Clerk—T.R. Esfeld, 620-793-3643
314 SW 50 Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530
Treasurer—Brad Kershner, 620-792-6222 673 SW 20 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530
Trustee—Vacant
LOGAN
Clerk—Joseph V. Zink, 620-562-8417 850 NE 150 Ave., Claflin, KS 67525
Treasurer—Joy Hertach, 620-587-3450 or 719-306-4606, 947 NE 160 Ave. Claflin, KS 67525
Trustee—David P. Wirth, 620-587-3795 or 786-0589/786-1361, 673 NE 150 Ave. Ellinwood, KS 67526
NORTH HOMESTEAD
Clerk—Kody Lang, 620-791-7621
306 NE 160 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544
Treasurer—Richard W. Lacey, 620-653-4929
2 NW 120 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544
Trustee—Shawn D. Jonas, 620-653-2935
56 NE 150 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544
PAWNEE ROCK
Clerk—Roy Prescott, 620-639-2690
1183 SW 30 Rd., Pawnee Rock, KS 67567
Treasurer—Scott Loving, 620-982-4393
1049 W. Hwy. 56, Pawnee Rock, KS 67567
Trustee—Dale D. Dirks, 620-982-4663 or 620786-0677, 1235 SW 10 Rd., Pawnee Rock, KS 67567
SOUTH BEND
Clerk—Darren Nicolet, 620-786-8829
59 SW 20 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530
Treasurer—Marilyn J. Selle, 620-617-4987
198 SE 30 Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530
Trustee—Craig A. Amerine, 620-793-9705 or 620-793-0206, 325 SE 40 Ave. Great Bend, KS 67530
SOUTH HOMESTEAD
Clerk—Brandon Yeakley, 620-562-0032, 846 NW 10 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544
Treasurer—Scott Heier, 620-617-7307 761 NW 10 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544
Trustee—Wayne Reif, 620-653-2022
171 NW 80 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544
UNION
Clerk—Justin Ludwig, 620-617-8267 or 620-617-8267, 197 NE 220 Rd. Hoisington, KS 67544
Treasurer—Brittany Woydziak, 661-916-3724
1826 NE 10 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544
Trustee—Rob Goreham, 620-786-0846 1705 NE 20 Ave., Hoisington, KS 67544
WALNUT
Clerk—Wes Meitner, 620-617-6769, 1266 NW 100, Olmitz KS 67564
Treasurer—Dale E. Maneth, 620-586-3326 or 785-532-8971, 1171 NW 110 Rd. Olmitz, KS 67564
Trustee—Steve Schneider, 620-586-3280 or 620-923-5432, 897 NW 120 Ave. Olmitz, KS 67564
WHEATLAND
Clerk—Tim Maier, 620-653-4665 525 NW 190 Rd., Hoisington, KS 67544
Treasurer—Garry Batt, 620-935-4390 or 785483-1109, 2269 NW 30 Ave. Russell, KS 67665
Trustee—Kevin Nettleingham, 620-653-7695 749 NW 180 Rd., Olmitz, KS 67564
If you have any questions or concerns about your specific township please contact any of the officials in your township.
Township officials are elected by residents of their township. Elections are held during regular county-wide elections.
Clerks: Term 2023-2027
Treasurer: Term 2021-2025
Trustee: Term 2021-2025
Township Map
State Government
STATE EXECUTIVE BRANCH
STATE SENAToR
Governor
Laura Kelly
State Capitol
300 SW 10th Ave.
Topeka, KS 66612-1590
Phone: 785-368-8500
https://governor.kansas.gov
Secretary of State
Scott Schwab
Memorial Hall, 1st Floor
120 SW 10th Ave.
Topeka, KS 66612-1594
Phone: 785-296-4564
kssos@ks.org
Attorney General
Kris W. Kobach
120 SW 10th, 2nd Floor
Topeka, KS 66612-1597
Phone: 785-296-2215
https://ag.ks.gov
District 33
Lt. Governor
David Toland
State Capitol
300 SW 10th Ave.
Topeka, KS 66612-1590
Phone: 785-368-8500
https://governor.kansas.gov
State Treasurer
Steven Johnson
900 SW Jackson, Ste. 201
Topeka, KS 66612
Phone: 785-296-3171
Unclaimed Property: 785-296-4165
www.kansasstatetreasurer.com
Insurance Commissioner
Vicki Schmidt
1300 SW Arrowhead Road
Topeka, KS 66604-4073
Phone: 785-291-3299
Consumer Assistance Hotline: 1-800-432-2484 (KS only)
kid.commissioner@ks.gov
Senator Alicia Straub, Republican
Capitol Room: 237-E
Seat: 4
Phone: 785-296-7682
Email: Alicia.Straub@senate.ks.gov
Home: 401 S. Kennedy, Ellinwood, KS 67526
Phone: 620-564-2196
Email: straubforkansas@gmail.com
Occupation: Merchandising Contractor
District 112
Representative Tory Marie Blew, Republican Capitol Room: 512-N Seat: 45
Phone: 785-296-7363
Email: ToryMarie.Blew@house.ks.gov
Home: P.O. Box 103, Great Bend, KS 67530
Phone: 620-603-8967
Email: tmarnberger@gmail.com
Occupation: Human Resources
District 113
Brett Fairchild, Republican Capitol Room: 176-W Seat: 111
Phone: 785-296-7667
Email: brett.fairchild@house.ks.gov
Home: 150 NW 40th St. St. John, KS 67576
Phone: 620-546-4510
Email: Fairchild_2@hotmail.com
Occupation: Farmer
District 109
Troy Waymaster, Republican Capitol Room: 111-N
Seat: 7
Phone: 785-296-7672
Email: troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov
Home: 3528 192nd Street, Bunker Hill, KS 67626
Phone: 785-483-2822
Email: twaymaster@aol.com
Occupation: Farmer/Office Manager
NATIoNAL GoVERNMENT
U.S. Senator
Jerry Moran, Republican Dirksen Senate Office Building, Room 521 Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-224-6521
www.moran.senate.gov
U.S. Senator
Roger Marshall, Republican Russell Senate Office Building, Suite 479A 2 Constitution Ave. N.E. Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: 202-224-4774
www.marshall.senate.gov
U.S. Representative Tracey Mann Republican, 1st District Cannon House Office Building, Room 344 Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-225-2715
www.mann.house.gov
Judicial Services
barton county courthouse 1400 Main, Great Bend
county attorney
M. Levi Morris
620-793-1851
20th JuDIcIaL DIstrIct court
The 20th Judicial District consists of the following counties: Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford.
District court clerk Martha Rivas 620-793-1856
honorable carey L. hipp, chief Judge 210 North Kansas, Ellsworth 785-472-8931
honorable steve Johnson, District Judge 1400 Main, Great Bend 620-793-1863
honorable Lisa beran, District Judge 1400 Main, Great Bend 620-793-1863
honorable timarie Walters, District Magistrate PO Box 365, St. John 620-549-3295
honorable crystal Miner, District Magistrate
401 N. Main St., , PO Box 876, Russell 785-483-5641
honorable richard burgess, District Magistrate 101 W. Commercial St, Lyons 620-257-2384
honorable Peggy svaty, District Magistrate 210 N. Kansas, Ellsworth 785-472-3832
20th JuDIcIaL DIstrIct court serVIces (Probation services) 1806 12th, Great Bend 620-793-1887
centraL Kansas coMMunIty correctIons 1806 12th, Great Bend 620-793-1940
JuVenILe IntaKe 1213 Baker, Great Bend 620-793-1930
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