PROCLAMATION 2025-17
WHEREAS, visually impaired people use their senses of hearing and touch to explore and understand the world. The white cane, introduced in the 1930s, expands that effort – allowing for a longer reach so that visually impaired people can more easily assess situations, and move quickly and confidently; and
WHEREAS, as the white cane keeps blind people safe and improves navigation in the environment, we recognize that the emphasis of White Cane Day, as established by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964, has shifted over time away from safety and toward independence and equality; and
WHEREAS, it is important to celebrate this history and recognize the white cane as an important tool that allows blind and visually impaired people to become independent, an important goal for all.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Board of County Commissioners of Barton County, Kansas, that Tuesday, October 28, 2025, is recognized as White Cane Awareness Day; and
FURTHER, that County citizens are urged to recognize the independence of the blind and visually impaired and to be cognizant of the symbolism of the white cane; and
FURTHER, that members of the Central Kansas Association for the Visually Impaired are recognized for their contribution to the Barton County community.
Dated this 28th day of October, 2025.
Ever since James Biggs, who was blind, painted his walking stick white to become more visible to motorists in 1921, the white cane has helped people with visual impairments stay safe and improve their navigation in the environment. National movements to establish the white cane in society date to the 1930s, and President Lyndon Johnson established White Cane Day in 1964. The official observance in the United States is always on Oct. 15. The date is set aside to celebrate the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired and the important symbol of blindness and tool of independence, the white cane.
Scharna Doll with the Central Kansas Association for the Visually Impaired attended the Barton County Commission meeting on Tuesday as the commissioners proclaimed White Cane Awareness Day on October 28, 2025. The City of Great Bend observed the day on Oct. 15, with City Administrator Logan Burns attending the CKAVI meeting on Oct. 27. The group meets on the fourth Monday of every month (except for November and December). Meetings are at 1 p.m. at the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas Ave. The next meeting will be Jan. 26, 2026. For more details, contact Doll at scharnadoll@gmail.com or call 620-786-0731.
Advocates are trying to get White Cane Day recognized as a state holiday by the governor to increase public awareness. Meanwhile, the local group has observed the day for several years.
“We used to walk around the courthouse with our canes,” Doll said. “We can’t really do that (any more),” she added, noting many members are senior citizens. She is in her 60s and only a few members are younger than her. However, they have recently welcomed three new members.
“When I first became blind, I thought my life was over,” Dolls said, explaining the importance of CKAVI as a support group. Member Paul Berscheidt, who passed away on Oct. 17, was a mentor who encouraged Doll and helped her find assistive technology.
CKAVI members have advised the City on sidewalk issues and urged the addition of safer crosswalks. Speakers at the monthly meetings have included firefighters on safety issues and a representative from The Center for Counseling and Consultation on depression. At the October meeting, Dr. Donald Beahm, Great Bend ophthalmologist, discussed the advancements in technology — most notably with artificial intelligence — that can assist those with visual impairments.
Commissioner Barb Esfeld made the motion to approve the proclamation and Commissioner Donna Zimmerman seconded the motion.
Bauer Computers wins bid
In other business Tuesday, the commissioners awarded the bid for computer replacements to Bauer Computers in Great Bend for $25,225.
County Administrator Matt Patzner said this will include “up to 25 new computers” and related equipment.
“The county has developed a plan for the annual replacement of a certain number of computers,” Patzner said. “This practice improves the county’s technological capabilities and allows for more consistent budgeting.” Bauer Computers submitted the lowest local bid that met all of the specifications, he said.
Bids were reviewed by the commissioners last week at a study session. Other bidders were not named at Tuesday’s meeting.
Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson commented, “We can’t always shop local, but when we can, we should. I’m proud of the effort the county has put into shopping local.”
Commissioner Duane Reif made the motion to approve the purchase and it was seconded by Commissioner Esfeld.
Travel 389
The commissioners had other appointments after the close of the agenda meeting. In the afternoon, they resumed their Travel 389 tour, visiting businesses along the 389 miles of paved highways in Barton County. In addition to the Great Bend businesses previously announced, they added a stop at the Central Care Cancer Center.
