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Mark Berner

Post-election reflections by Berner

Tue, 11/11/2025 - 1:16pm

Following a rare electoral tie, Mark Berner was named mayor-elect of Council Grove after the Morris County Election Board determined the outcome by drawing numbers from a hat. The unusual decision came after Berner and opponent Ryan McDonald each received 270 votes once provisional ballots were counted. McDonald drew first, selecting a five, while Berner’s draw of ten secured the win. Berner, who has served eight years on the City Council, acknowledged the unexpected way the contest was decided.

Charles Rayl was trained to fly light observation helicopters, nicknamed “loaches”, which were small, agile and low-flying and often used in dangerous missions to locate enemy positions. Rayl said the helicopters stayed so low that the North Vietnames
Charles Rayl: three helicopter crashes, one steadfast soldier
Charles Rayl: three helicopter crashes, one steadfast soldier

Charles Rayl: three helicopter crashes, one steadfast soldier

Tue, 11/11/2025 - 1:16pm

Charles “Charlie” Rayl of Chase County is a man of few words and steady conviction, qualities forged in the cockpit of a helicopter during the Vietnam War. A retired U.S. Army pilot and later an attorney, Rayl’s story is one of endurance and unflinching service. He survived being shot down three times in combat, witnessed the destruction of war firsthand, and returned home to build a life marked by quiet resilience rather than fanfare.

Mark Berner declared Council Grove Mayor after 270-270 tiebreaker

Tue, 11/11/2025 - 1:16pm

The Morris County Commission convened as the Board of Canvassers on Monday, November 10, to certify the results of the November 4 election. Present for the canvas were County Clerk Chelsey Schmidt, along with County Commissioners Wayne Kohler, Dave Fox, and Jim Barber. Also in attendance were Shelly Dunham, Karen Exon, Bill Kassebaum, Mark Berner, Ryan Mc-Donald, Amanda McDonald, and Jan Sciacca.

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Council Grove Republican

P.O. Box 237

302 W. Main

Council Grove, KS 66846

Email: cgnews@cgtelco.net

Phone: (620) 767-5123

FAX: (620) 767-5124