Kansas Klips

PRATT—On April 18th, 2026, Michael Barnett of Baxter Springs landed a 33.6-pound, 63-inchlong longnose gar while bow fishing the Spring River near Baxter Springs. Barnett's catch broke the previous Kansas state record for a longnose gar—a 31.

PLEASANTVIEW—Dutch Kitchen Restaurant, a Reno County staple for more than five decades, closed at the end of May. The restaurant, located at 6803 West Kansas Highway 61 just west of Hutchinson, had been open for 55 years.

TOPEKA—A sad and difficult announcement regarding Tembo, the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center's beloved 56-year-old African elephant, was recently made.

HARVEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8th, in Harvey County.

TOPEKA—When dusk cloaked the Kansas Capitol on Thursday evening, April 30th, family and comrades gathered with tiny blue lights to honor fallen Kansas law enforcement officers. Among those added to the Kansas Fallen Law Enforcement Officer Memorial in 2026 are Hays Police Sgt.

HAYS—Members of the Kansas National Guard were at Hays High School on Wednesday, April 29th, for a recruiting visit. They invited Hays community members, Hays USD 489 staff, and Pratt, Salina, and Great Bend community members and school staff to ride in two of the Guard's Black Hawk helicopters.

SW Kansas firefighter/paramedic dies while on duty FORD COUNTY—Authorities in Ford County are mourning the death of Ford County Fire and EMS Firefighter/Paramedic William Cory 'Liam' Price.

HAYS—Hay's Walmart is making room inside its store for a national coffee chain to open. A Walmart representative confirmed that a Dunkin' location is planned for the supercenter at 4301 Vine Street.

HAYS—The City of Hays Parks Department has announced the arrival of new bison to the historic herd at Frontier Historical Park, marking a key step in an initiative to ensure the long-term health and vitality of the animals.

MAIZE—A 33-year-old pharmacist from suburban Wichita has been indicted for allegedly stealing prescription drugs from his former employer for his personal use.