From the City of Great Bend...

City Administrator Kendal Francis, Community Coordinator Christina Hayes and Great Bend City Band Manager Kurtis Koch met this week to address a concern regarding a summertime favorite, the Great Bend City Band 2020 Concert Season.

Many discussions where held, the band members were polled and due to the practicing restraints and safety concerns, for both band members and patrons, it has been decided to cancel the 2020 Great Bend City Band Concert series.

Francis said, “We apologize for any inconvenience. The concerts are very popular. However, the safety of our band members and attendees is our utmost concern, and in that light, it was felt that canceling was the correct thing to do.&nbsp; We look forward to resuming the concerts next season.”

As things continue to reopen, it’s important to remember that not everything will immediately return to normal. The City of Great Bend reminds all citizens to make best judgements as they return to activities and continue to practice and follow KDHE &amp; CDC guidelines. For more information regarding the City of Great Bend and COVID-19 Updates&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendks.net/75/Public-Information" target="_blank">www.greatbendks.net/75/Public-Information</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591120168718.jpeg" alt="Great Bend City Band concert season cancelled for 2020. (Photo: Paul Martin)" />
 <figcaption>Great Bend City Band concert season cancelled for 2020. (Photo: Paul Martin)</figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Great Bend...City Administrator Kendal Francis, Community Coordinator Christina Hayes and Great Bend City Band Manager Kurtis Koch met this week to address a concern regarding a summertime favorite, the Great Bend City Band 2020 Concert Season.Many discussions where held, the band members were polled and due to the practicing restraints and safety concerns, for both band members and patrons, it has been decided to cancel the 2020 Great Bend City Band Concert series.Francis said, “We apologize for any inconvenience. The concerts are very popular. However, the safety of our band members and attendees is our utmost concern, and in that light, it was felt that canceling was the correct thing to do.&nbsp; We look forward to resuming the concerts next season.”As things continue to reopen, it’s important to remember that not everything will immediately return to normal. The City of Great Bend reminds all citizens to make best judgements as they return to activities and continue to practice and follow KDHE &amp; CDC guidelines. For more information regarding the City of Great Bend and COVID-19 Updates&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendks.net/75/Public-Information" target="_blank">www.greatbendks.net/75/Public-Information</a>

Great Bend City Band concert season canceled for 2020

&nbsp; Ellinwood Community Blood drive will be June 2nd at the Parish Center from 12:20-6:30. Please make an appointment to avoid longer wait times, walk-ins always welcome. Schedule an appointment at <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FRedCrossBlood.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3rNN9JV5p9OExWc0wwAF8fEnjwYk5ISQr0Cz64EMiqzmWIqdnLO4cPJZY&amp;h=AT2avRDJfQ--0Xz9tAF1ziwxQEviG0SlNbll3MypBmJyq1wk6ifOTcUa1qgy5P40SC5cAFWhmWn33k9HEnFM3OgsH6gqHQsIowKv9Vv6H9nW25us7B10z2AI_KFAZK3vUg">RedCrossBlood.org</a> and enter:Ellinwood or call 800-733-2767.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591020273955.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Ellinwood Community Blood drive will be June 2nd at the Parish Center from 12:20-6:30. Please make an appointment to avoid longer wait times, walk-ins always welcome. Schedule an appointment at <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FRedCrossBlood.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3rNN9JV5p9OExWc0wwAF8fEnjwYk5ISQr0Cz64EMiqzmWIqdnLO4cPJZY&amp;h=AT2avRDJfQ--0Xz9tAF1ziwxQEviG0SlNbll3MypBmJyq1wk6ifOTcUa1qgy5P40SC5cAFWhmWn33k9HEnFM3OgsH6gqHQsIowKv9Vv6H9nW25us7B10z2AI_KFAZK3vUg">RedCrossBlood.org</a> and enter:Ellinwood or call 800-733-2767.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ellinwood Community Blood Drive, Tuesday June 2nd 

&nbsp;Although the annual BCYP Casino Night was canceled due to the pandemic, this is your chance to win some fantastic prizes sponsored by local businesses via an online auction! Casino Night is BCYP's only fundraiser throughout the year. Your support enables our organization to plan future leadership, networking, and volunteer events in Barton County.

&nbsp; Prizes were sponsored awesome businesses including: - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonegbks/">Cornerstone Automotive, LLC</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/DATFitnessPlace/">DAT Fitness</a> - Discovery Toys - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/GoldenBeltBicycleCompany/">Golden Belt Bicycle Company</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/imagesbyemilyphotography/">Images By Emily Photography</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/justintimeremodels/">Just In Time Remodeling</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/AdamsBrownBeranBall/">Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KatieMadeKrafts/">KatieMade Krafts</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/bikebrewq/">Bike Brew Q</a> / Dry Lake Brewery - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/chelseamitchellphoto/">Chelsea Mitchell Photography</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/kansasearthandskycandle/">Kansas Earth and Sky Candle Co.</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/JKsCustomCreations2/">JK's Custom Creations</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/EldridgeFence/">Eldridge Fencing, Inc.</a> - First Kansas Bank - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePinkDandelionbyJK/">The Pink Dandelion</a> - USD 428 - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/choosemylawn/">MyLawn Turf &amp; Tree</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/artisansoaps.org/">Artisan Soaps</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/DishWithDebbieKuhlman/">Dish with Debbie Kuhlman</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/That.Hipster.Place/">That Hipster Place</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/gbctcrest/">Great Bend Community Theatre</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/charliesplacegbk/">Charlie's Place</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/10thAvenueBoutique/">10th Avenue Boutique</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/ucentralks/">United Way of Central Kansas</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/Saras-Creative-Crochet-1610966725857710/">Sara's Creative Crochet</a> - Brothers in Blue Motorcycle Club - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/Two-Chicks-And-Some-Old-Bird-111989030141907/">Two Chicks And Some Old Bird</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/SunflowerDiversified/">Sunflower Diversified Services</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/getyourselfglowing/">Glow Boutique &amp; Tan</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/westsidemarketgreatbend/">Westside Market</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KellysGardenSenseKS/">Kelly's Garden Sense</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/P.S.SEC/">P &amp; S Security</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/MPIRERealtyGroup/">MPIRE Realty Group</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/RosewoodWineCellar/">Rosewood Wine Cellar</a> - And more!&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ends June 5th&nbsp; View prizes and start bidding here: <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.32auctions.com%2FBCYPCasinoNight%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3N0WgtdbD14dIIF2v2mG0a-3LJNuVytV4ZaMVZOSSa6cdgKi5yqHjWPcc&amp;h=AT0Za_VravfjlKch6_ZporPJBFNV20MGXNtbF4-2kbINi6IeEJhhLfQXK-ugdt2Of7fAqhDySXVlGV4nhabiuhWx5mqEpJi2q-TonPfac8vYIlweC5BQRFvPnuO3kj9LTA">https://www.32auctions.com/BCYPCasinoNight</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591020150516.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Although the annual BCYP Casino Night was canceled due to the pandemic, this is your chance to win some fantastic prizes sponsored by local businesses via an online auction! Casino Night is BCYP's only fundraiser throughout the year. Your support enables our organization to plan future leadership, networking, and volunteer events in Barton County.&nbsp; Prizes were sponsored awesome businesses including: - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonegbks/">Cornerstone Automotive, LLC</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/DATFitnessPlace/">DAT Fitness</a> - Discovery Toys - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/GoldenBeltBicycleCompany/">Golden Belt Bicycle Company</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/imagesbyemilyphotography/">Images By Emily Photography</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/justintimeremodels/">Just In Time Remodeling</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/AdamsBrownBeranBall/">Adams, Brown, Beran &amp; Ball</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KatieMadeKrafts/">KatieMade Krafts</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/bikebrewq/">Bike Brew Q</a> / Dry Lake Brewery - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/chelseamitchellphoto/">Chelsea Mitchell Photography</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/kansasearthandskycandle/">Kansas Earth and Sky Candle Co.</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/JKsCustomCreations2/">JK's Custom Creations</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/EldridgeFence/">Eldridge Fencing, Inc.</a> - First Kansas Bank - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePinkDandelionbyJK/">The Pink Dandelion</a> - USD 428 - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/choosemylawn/">MyLawn Turf &amp; Tree</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/artisansoaps.org/">Artisan Soaps</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/DishWithDebbieKuhlman/">Dish with Debbie Kuhlman</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/That.Hipster.Place/">That Hipster Place</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/gbctcrest/">Great Bend Community Theatre</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/charliesplacegbk/">Charlie's Place</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/10thAvenueBoutique/">10th Avenue Boutique</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/ucentralks/">United Way of Central Kansas</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/Saras-Creative-Crochet-1610966725857710/">Sara's Creative Crochet</a> - Brothers in Blue Motorcycle Club - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/Two-Chicks-And-Some-Old-Bird-111989030141907/">Two Chicks And Some Old Bird</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/SunflowerDiversified/">Sunflower Diversified Services</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/getyourselfglowing/">Glow Boutique &amp; Tan</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/westsidemarketgreatbend/">Westside Market</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KellysGardenSenseKS/">Kelly's Garden Sense</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/P.S.SEC/">P &amp; S Security</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/MPIRERealtyGroup/">MPIRE Realty Group</a> - <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/RosewoodWineCellar/">Rosewood Wine Cellar</a> - And more!&nbsp; &nbsp; Ends June 5th&nbsp; View prizes and start bidding here: <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.32auctions.com%2FBCYPCasinoNight%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3N0WgtdbD14dIIF2v2mG0a-3LJNuVytV4ZaMVZOSSa6cdgKi5yqHjWPcc&amp;h=AT0Za_VravfjlKch6_ZporPJBFNV20MGXNtbF4-2kbINi6IeEJhhLfQXK-ugdt2Of7fAqhDySXVlGV4nhabiuhWx5mqEpJi2q-TonPfac8vYIlweC5BQRFvPnuO3kj9LTA">https://www.32auctions.com/BCYPCasinoNight</a>

Barton County Young Professionals-Casino Night Online Auction 

Great Bend Fireworks Display-Friday, July 3rd 

Ladies Night Out-Thursday June 18th 

Golden Belt Humane Society - Adopt a Pet - June 6th 

Buy a t-shirt and support a Great Bend business

Nearly a quarter of a million dollars has been donated to Sunflower Diversified Services, thanks to the generosity of a Lyons woman who had an affection for people with special needs.

The Vera Elliott Finnin estate recently contributed $249,800 to the non-profit agency that serves people with intellectual disabilities and delays in central Kansas.

“We are totally excited about this more-than generous contribution,” said Jon Prescott, Sunflower executive director. “And the timing could not have been more perfect.

“We have placed these funds in the Sunflower Foundation to replenish some of our reserves, which were affected by the pandemic and other unexpected costs.”

Prescott noted that Sunflower is considering some long-term needs also. “But, at this time, we haven’t yet assigned any of these proceeds to these particular needs.”

These types of gifts create stability for Sunflower and the individuals it supports, Prescott emphasized.

“They are critical to our long-term existence – especially in light of budget concerns at the state level,” Prescott said. “We pray that Gov. Laura Kelly does not reduce our funding for people with disabilities.

“Gov. Sam Brownback cut our funding by 10 percent one year. This nearly destroyed several agencies such as ours across the state.”

Prescott also noted that clients and their families, along with employees feel “blessed” to be among the beneficiaries of the Finnin estate.

Everyone associated with Sunflower is indebted to Scott Bush and Jim Johnson, Prescott commented. Bush is the attorney for the Finnin estate, as well as Sunflower’s attorney. Johnson is the retired executive director of the agency.

“They invested their time and talents many years ago to meet with Mrs. Finnin and share with her what we do here at Sunflower,” Prescott said. “They helped explain the critical nature of our support services and the impact our agency has on clients’ lives as they strive to achieve higher levels of independence.”

Bush noted that “Vera had a genuine fondness for people with disabilities. Her charitable bequests were also weighted to healthcare and retirement concerns.”

Finnin was born and raised in Rice County, which is in Sunflower’s service area. She and her husband, Pete Finnin, lived in California for his job in the aircraft industry. They returned to Lyons in the 1980s.

Vera passed on April 2, 2019, 20 years after her husband’s passing.

Johnson said Sunflower is “blessed to be one of the organizations Vera cared deeply about. I never cease to be overwhelmed by the generosity of people and their concern for children and adults who rely on Sunflower for the services they need.”

Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 54th year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591120388083.jpeg" alt="Vera Elliott Finnin" />
 <figcaption>Vera Elliott Finnin</figcaption>
 </figure>Nearly a quarter of a million dollars has been donated to Sunflower Diversified Services, thanks to the generosity of a Lyons woman who had an affection for people with special needs.The Vera Elliott Finnin estate recently contributed $249,800 to the non-profit agency that serves people with intellectual disabilities and delays in central Kansas.“We are totally excited about this more-than generous contribution,” said Jon Prescott, Sunflower executive director. “And the timing could not have been more perfect.“We have placed these funds in the Sunflower Foundation to replenish some of our reserves, which were affected by the pandemic and other unexpected costs.”Prescott noted that Sunflower is considering some long-term needs also. “But, at this time, we haven’t yet assigned any of these proceeds to these particular needs.”These types of gifts create stability for Sunflower and the individuals it supports, Prescott emphasized.“They are critical to our long-term existence – especially in light of budget concerns at the state level,” Prescott said. “We pray that Gov. Laura Kelly does not reduce our funding for people with disabilities.“Gov. Sam Brownback cut our funding by 10 percent one year. This nearly destroyed several agencies such as ours across the state.”Prescott also noted that clients and their families, along with employees feel “blessed” to be among the beneficiaries of the Finnin estate.Everyone associated with Sunflower is indebted to Scott Bush and Jim Johnson, Prescott commented. Bush is the attorney for the Finnin estate, as well as Sunflower’s attorney. Johnson is the retired executive director of the agency.“They invested their time and talents many years ago to meet with Mrs. Finnin and share with her what we do here at Sunflower,” Prescott said. “They helped explain the critical nature of our support services and the impact our agency has on clients’ lives as they strive to achieve higher levels of independence.”Bush noted that “Vera had a genuine fondness for people with disabilities. Her charitable bequests were also weighted to healthcare and retirement concerns.”Finnin was born and raised in Rice County, which is in Sunflower’s service area. She and her husband, Pete Finnin, lived in California for his job in the aircraft industry. They returned to Lyons in the 1980s.Vera passed on April 2, 2019, 20 years after her husband’s passing.Johnson said Sunflower is “blessed to be one of the organizations Vera cared deeply about. I never cease to be overwhelmed by the generosity of people and their concern for children and adults who rely on Sunflower for the services they need.”Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 54th year.

Sunflower Diversified Services beneficiary of large bequest

On Monday, June 1 at approximately 3:06 p.m. a detective with the Great Bend Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the alley at 12th and Frey Street for an equipment violation on a 2001 Pontiac Bonneville. 

Christopher Whiting, w/m 38, was identified as the driver of the vehicle and Brianna Feist, w/f 22, as the passenger. 

During the stop, Great Bend Police Service Dog, Menta was deployed and conducted a free air sniff around the exterior of the vehicle. After performing the sniff, K9 Menta indicated to the presence of illegal narcotics.

A search of the vehicle was conducted, and suspected opiates were located inside the vehicle. Marijuana and drug paraphernalia were located, concealed on Feist's person. Whiting and Feist were arrested and booked into the Barton County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bond. 

This incident is currently under investigation. Anyone with information on this crime, or any other crime, is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591118051365.png" alt="Christopher Whiting" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Whiting</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, June 1 at approximately 3:06 p.m. a detective with the Great Bend Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the alley at 12th and Frey Street for an equipment violation on a 2001 Pontiac Bonneville. Christopher Whiting, w/m 38, was identified as the driver of the vehicle and Brianna Feist, w/f 22, as the passenger. During the stop, Great Bend Police Service Dog, Menta was deployed and conducted a free air sniff around the exterior of the vehicle. After performing the sniff, K9 Menta indicated to the presence of illegal narcotics.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591118068669.png" alt="Brianna Feist" />
 <figcaption>Brianna Feist</figcaption>
 </figure>A search of the vehicle was conducted, and suspected opiates were located inside the vehicle. Marijuana and drug paraphernalia were located, concealed on Feist's person. Whiting and Feist were arrested and booked into the Barton County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bond. This incident is currently under investigation. Anyone with information on this crime, or any other crime, is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300.

Two arrested following K9 indicating on illegal narcotics

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The control cabinet, or electrical box, at the 24th Street and Main Street intersection in Great Bend is expected to be installed Wednesday, June 3. Motorists can expect the stop lights to function again shortly after the installation.

A car chase that occurred on May 18 resulted in the suspect crashing into the electrical box at the intersection, causing the lights to go out. A four-way stop has been in place at the intersection since the crash.

Christopher Chappell was arrested along the northwest fence line of the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo shortly after fleeing on foot following the crash.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590164276182.jpeg" alt="Electricity is scheduled to be restored to the 24th &amp; Main stoplights Wednesday, June 3." />
 <figcaption>Electricity is scheduled to be restored to the 24th &amp; Main stoplights Wednesday, June 3.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe control cabinet, or electrical box, at the 24th Street and Main Street intersection in Great Bend is expected to be installed Wednesday, June 3. Motorists can expect the stop lights to function again shortly after the installation.A car chase that occurred on May 18 resulted in the suspect crashing into the electrical box at the intersection, causing the lights to go out. A four-way stop has been in place at the intersection since the crash.Christopher Chappell was arrested along the northwest fence line of the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo shortly after fleeing on foot following the crash.

24th & Main stoplights to be repaired Wednesday

From Barton County Appraiser Barb Esfeld...

Starting in June and running through September, Barton County Appraiser's Office personnel will be conducting their annual re-inspection of real property, which includes residential, commercial and vacant properties.

Field appraisers will be re-inspecting in Walnut, Eureka, South Homestead, the south half of Cheyenne and Logan Townships. The towns of Albert and Olmitz and the Barton Hills subdivision will be included. A portion of Great Bend will also be reviewed. This portion is located from Washington Street to the east city limits and 10th Street to the south city limits.

The Barton County Appraiser's Office is mandated by KSA 79-1476 to physically re-inspect all real property in the county at least once every six years. The purpose of this inspection is to verify that the data is current and represents the property accurately. The Appraiser's Office physically inspects approximately 17% of the real property located in the county each year.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, our staff will be conducting reviews via vehicle only. We will be reviewing the current data on file and updating photographs of all structures on file.

All vehicles utilized by our staff will be marked with the Barton County logo. It is not typical for our office to conduct interior inspections (unless requested by the owner) so we rely upon information provided by the owner/occupant. Because we will not be conducting interviews at the door as in prior years, our office will be mailing questionnaires to each residence that is located within this year's re-inspection area. If you reside within the relist area, we ask that you please assist us in our efforts by completing the questionnaire and returning it to our office within 10 days.

If the public should have questions or concerns, please call the Appraiser's Office at 620-793-1821 or email us at appraiser@bartoncounty.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574705917284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Barton County Appraiser Barb Esfeld...Starting in June and running through September, Barton County Appraiser's Office personnel will be conducting their annual re-inspection of real property, which includes residential, commercial and vacant properties.Field appraisers will be re-inspecting in Walnut, Eureka, South Homestead, the south half of Cheyenne and Logan Townships. The towns of Albert and Olmitz and the Barton Hills subdivision will be included. A portion of Great Bend will also be reviewed. This portion is located from Washington Street to the east city limits and 10th Street to the south city limits.The Barton County Appraiser's Office is mandated by KSA 79-1476 to physically re-inspect all real property in the county at least once every six years. The purpose of this inspection is to verify that the data is current and represents the property accurately. The Appraiser's Office physically inspects approximately 17% of the real property located in the county each year.Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, our staff will be conducting reviews via vehicle only. We will be reviewing the current data on file and updating photographs of all structures on file.All vehicles utilized by our staff will be marked with the Barton County logo. It is not typical for our office to conduct interior inspections (unless requested by the owner) so we rely upon information provided by the owner/occupant. Because we will not be conducting interviews at the door as in prior years, our office will be mailing questionnaires to each residence that is located within this year's re-inspection area. If you reside within the relist area, we ask that you please assist us in our efforts by completing the questionnaire and returning it to our office within 10 days.If the public should have questions or concerns, please call the Appraiser's Office at 620-793-1821 or email us at appraiser@bartoncounty.org.

Barton County Appraiser's Office conducting real property re-inspections

Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis was on the Early Morning Show on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM Tuesday. 

Francis told host Dakota Tucker that the city was aware that an anticipated protest regarding the nature of George Floyd's death in Minnesota was going to take place in Great Bend. The protest is expected to begin at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 2 at Jack Kilby Square.

"One of the organizers of the protest met with us Monday," said Francis. "The city's stance is you have every right to voice your opinion and to gather. We just ask that it is done in lawful manner."

"City staff, including police, were made aware of the situation and it will be monitored."

Hear Francis' entire comments regarding the protest below...

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591108007639.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend City Administrator Kendal Francis was on the Early Morning Show on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM Tuesday. Francis told host Dakota Tucker that the city was aware that an anticipated protest regarding the nature of George Floyd's death in Minnesota was going to take place in Great Bend. The protest is expected to begin at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 2 at Jack Kilby Square."One of the organizers of the protest met with us Monday," said Francis. "The city's stance is you have every right to voice your opinion and to gather. We just ask that it is done in lawful manner.""City staff, including police, were made aware of the situation and it will be monitored."Hear Francis' entire comments regarding the protest below...<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/dhpejyvr/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

Great Bend aware and supportive of peaceful protest Tuesday

Barton County Sheriff's Office Incident Log (6/1) Chase All Units At 2:27 a.m. a chase was reported at 301 Hoisington Street in Susank. Non-Injury Accident At 5:31 a.m. an accident was reported in the 100 block of S. US 281 Highway. K-9 Use / Call Out At 9:31 a.m. the K-9 was used at NW 10 Avenue &amp; NW 60 Road. Theft

At 11:18 a.m. a theft was reported at 106 N. Main in Ellinwood.

At 9:21 p.m. a vehicle versus deer accident was reported at W. US 56 Highway at MM 193.

Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (6/1)

At 1:39 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 222 Hickory Street.

At 2:53 p.m. an accident was reported at 9th Street &amp; Washington Street.

At 2:57 p.m. a report of embezzlement was made at 3600 10th Street.

At 3:11 p.m. K-9 Menta was used for a traffic stop at 10th Street &amp; Frey Street.

At 4:43 p.m. Marvin Baldwin reported a gas meter being hit at 2543 20th Street. No damage.

At 7:25 p.m. theft of has canoe was reported at 1801 8th Street.

At 9:56 p.m. a burglary occurring earlier in the evening was reported at 2615 Lakin Avenue.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574791204982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff's Office Incident Log (6/1) Chase All Units At 2:27 a.m. a chase was reported at 301 Hoisington Street in Susank. Non-Injury Accident At 5:31 a.m. an accident was reported in the 100 block of S. US 281 Highway. K-9 Use / Call Out At 9:31 a.m. the K-9 was used at NW 10 Avenue &amp; NW 60 Road. TheftAt 11:18 a.m. a theft was reported at 106 N. Main in Ellinwood.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:21 p.m. a vehicle versus deer accident was reported at W. US 56 Highway at MM 193.Great Bend Police Department Incident Log (6/1)Breathing ProblemsAt 1:39 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 222 Hickory Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 2:53 p.m. an accident was reported at 9th Street &amp; Washington Street.TheftAt 2:57 p.m. a report of embezzlement was made at 3600 10th Street.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:11 p.m. K-9 Menta was used for a traffic stop at 10th Street &amp; Frey Street.Gas Leak / SpillAt 4:43 p.m. Marvin Baldwin reported a gas meter being hit at 2543 20th Street. No damage.TheftAt 7:25 p.m. theft of has canoe was reported at 1801 8th Street.At 9:56 p.m. a burglary occurring earlier in the evening was reported at 2615 Lakin Avenue.

Cop Shop (6/1)

BOOKED: Leonard Boese of Susank on BTDC case for battery DV, bond set at $2,500 C/S. BTDC case for flee and elude, bond set at $1,000 C/S. BOOKED: Chris Whiting on BTDC case for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, no drug tax stamp, possession of drug paraphernalia, no seat belt, $10,000 C/S. BOOKED: Brianna Feist on BTDC case for possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, no drug tax stamp, possession of drug paraphernalia, interference with LEO, no seat belt, $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Kenneth Johnston of Ellinwood on Barton County District Court case for distribution of drugs, DWS, no insurance, ITOL, possession of drug paraphernalia, bond in lieu of $50,000 C/S.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586549258879.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Leonard Boese of Susank on BTDC case for battery DV, bond set at $2,500 C/S. BTDC case for flee and elude, bond set at $1,000 C/S. BOOKED: Chris Whiting on BTDC case for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, no drug tax stamp, possession of drug paraphernalia, no seat belt, $10,000 C/S. BOOKED: Brianna Feist on BTDC case for possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, no drug tax stamp, possession of drug paraphernalia, interference with LEO, no seat belt, $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Kenneth Johnston of Ellinwood on Barton County District Court case for distribution of drugs, DWS, no insurance, ITOL, possession of drug paraphernalia, bond in lieu of $50,000 C/S.

Barton County Sheriff's Booking Activity (6/1)

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind 7 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94. West southwest wind around 6 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. South southeast wind around 7 mph.

Thursday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Friday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.

Saturday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.

Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 70.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 94.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591067327358.png" alt="Warm and breezy conditions are expected again on Tuesday. Highs will range from the mid 80s to mid 90s with gusty south winds." />
 <figcaption>Warm and breezy conditions are expected again on Tuesday. Highs will range from the mid 80s to mid 90s with gusty south winds.</figcaption>
 </figure>Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind 7 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 94. West southwest wind around 6 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. South southeast wind around 7 mph.Thursday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.Friday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.Saturday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 70.Monday Sunny, with a high near 94.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday Weather

After more than 10 weeks of being off limits, the Great Bend City
Council voted 6-1 Monday night to reopen access to city playgrounds. The City
of Great Bend now joins the Great Bend Recreation Commission and USD 428 in
opening up playgrounds throughout town. 

The playgrounds were closed and fenced
off following a March 20 decision to prevent the spread of the
coronavirus. 
"I really believe everything playground wise is open, except for the city," said Mayor Cody Schmidt. "It only makes sense to me that with everyone else open, we go ahead and open." 
The initial plan of phased in reopening for city operations was to allow access
to playgrounds June 22, but councilmembers Lindsey Krom-Craven and
Jolene Biggs suggested reopening them immediately.

City Administrator Kendal
Francis says there will be caution signs posted and the playgrounds will be
cleaned once a day. "We will do everything we can to make it clean and sanitized, but we do have limits," said Francis.

The City Council also approved the reopening of public restrooms.&nbsp; 
The City of Great Bend plans on returning to normal staffing schedules and
operations June 8 and the Wetlands Waterpark June 15.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590164448778.jpeg" alt="Great Bend set to allow access again to city playgrounds." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend set to allow access again to city playgrounds.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAfter more than 10 weeks of being off limits, the Great Bend City
Council voted 6-1 Monday night to reopen access to city playgrounds. The City
of Great Bend now joins the Great Bend Recreation Commission and USD 428 in
opening up playgrounds throughout town. The playgrounds were closed and fenced
off following a March 20 decision to prevent the spread of the
coronavirus. 
"I really believe everything playground wise is open, except for the city," said Mayor Cody Schmidt. "It only makes sense to me that with everyone else open, we go ahead and open." 
The initial plan of phased in reopening for city operations was to allow access
to playgrounds June 22, but councilmembers Lindsey Krom-Craven and
Jolene Biggs suggested reopening them immediately. City Administrator Kendal
Francis says there will be caution signs posted and the playgrounds will be
cleaned once a day. "We will do everything we can to make it clean and sanitized, but we do have limits," said Francis.The City Council also approved the reopening of public restrooms.&nbsp; 
The City of Great Bend plans on returning to normal staffing schedules and
operations June 8 and the Wetlands Waterpark June 15.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Let’s play! Great Bend reopens access to playgrounds

In order to disburse working capital grants to as many businesses as
possible, the Barton County Commission tabled the decision to issue funding to
a couple of businesses at the May 26 meeting. The Commission
established a filing deadline of May 29 and then assessed all the requests
to make sure they had enough for each applicant. 

The Economic Development
Revolving Loan Fund has been used heavily during the COVID-19 pandemic as local
businesses have absorbed financial hits. 

With the deadline passed, Commissioner
Jim Daily says the county can divvy up the funding to a few more companies. 
"After looking at the applications and knowing the limited amount of $114,000 in the fund, you have to make sure everyone gets a fair share," said Daily. 
The Commission approved the two previous grant requests to Rodeway Inn and Suites
in Hoisington and Industrial Services of Kansas in rural Great Bend. Rodeway
Inn asked for $50,000 but was approved for $29,646 and Industrial Services
received $5,000. Commissioner Jennifer Schartz says the county was able to
provide funding to three additional businesses. 
"We should try to get everyone as much as they wanted without going overboard with any one business," said Schartz. "Rodeway Inn requested far above what anyone else asked for. We now put them in line with everyone else." 
The Commission approved funding to Ernsting, Inc. for $30,000, Quality Design
Construction received $25,000 and Kansas Trophy Experience received $25,000 in
working capital grant funding.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591045676658.jpeg" alt="Rodeway Inn and Suites in Hoisington received a $29,646 working capital grant through Barton County." />
 <figcaption>Rodeway Inn and Suites in Hoisington received a $29,646 working capital grant through Barton County.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn order to disburse working capital grants to as many businesses as
possible, the Barton County Commission tabled the decision to issue funding to
a couple of businesses at the May 26 meeting. The Commission
established a filing deadline of May 29 and then assessed all the requests
to make sure they had enough for each applicant. The Economic Development
Revolving Loan Fund has been used heavily during the COVID-19 pandemic as local
businesses have absorbed financial hits. With the deadline passed, Commissioner
Jim Daily says the county can divvy up the funding to a few more companies. 
"After looking at the applications and knowing the limited amount of $114,000 in the fund, you have to make sure everyone gets a fair share," said Daily. 
The Commission approved the two previous grant requests to Rodeway Inn and Suites
in Hoisington and Industrial Services of Kansas in rural Great Bend. Rodeway
Inn asked for $50,000 but was approved for $29,646 and Industrial Services
received $5,000. Commissioner Jennifer Schartz says the county was able to
provide funding to three additional businesses. 
"We should try to get everyone as much as they wanted without going overboard with any one business," said Schartz. "Rodeway Inn requested far above what anyone else asked for. We now put them in line with everyone else." 
The Commission approved funding to Ernsting, Inc. for $30,000, Quality Design
Construction received $25,000 and Kansas Trophy Experience received $25,000 in
working capital grant funding.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton County awards economic grant money to five more businesses

Seven members of the Barton Community College bowling program received national accolades as announced by the National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association (NCBCA).

Three of the awards were earned on the women's side in&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/wbowl/2019-20/bios/dykes_ashley_v4lu" target="_blank">Ashley Dykes</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/wbowl/2019-20/bios/newell_alexandria_ng6u" target="_blank">Alexandria Newell</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/wbowl/2019-20/bios/whited_faith_cy90" target="_blank">Faith Whited</a>&nbsp;while four came from the men's squad in&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/mbowl/2019-20/bios/banks_benjamin_ejaw" target="_blank">Benjamin Banks</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/mbowl/2019-20/bios/hill_tracey_o46v" target="_blank">Tracey Hill</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/mbowl/2019-20/bios/nisly_creyton_oqc3" target="_blank">Creyton Nisly</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/mbowl/2019-20/bios/schwerdtfeger_cort_vhb1" target="_blank">Cort Schwerdtfeger</a>.

In its first year of competition, Head Coach Mike Perry's women's squad finished national runner-up at the NJCAA Championships as the men placed 8th overall.

Newell's academic honor compliments a national championship on the lanes as the freshman became the program's first individual champion after claiming the singles competition at the NJCAA Championships.

1,030 student-athletes across all levels of collegiate competition earned academic Scholar Athlete status for the 2019-2020 season. For a complete list, visit the&nbsp;<a href="http://usbcongress.http.internapcdn.net/usbcongress/bowl/collegiate/2020NCBCAScholarAthleteAward.pdf" target="_blank">NCBCA Awards page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591116693109.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Seven members of the Barton Community College bowling program received national accolades as announced by the National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association (NCBCA).Three of the awards were earned on the women's side in&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/wbowl/2019-20/bios/dykes_ashley_v4lu" target="_blank">Ashley Dykes</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/wbowl/2019-20/bios/newell_alexandria_ng6u" target="_blank">Alexandria Newell</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/wbowl/2019-20/bios/whited_faith_cy90" target="_blank">Faith Whited</a>&nbsp;while four came from the men's squad in&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/mbowl/2019-20/bios/banks_benjamin_ejaw" target="_blank">Benjamin Banks</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/mbowl/2019-20/bios/hill_tracey_o46v" target="_blank">Tracey Hill</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/mbowl/2019-20/bios/nisly_creyton_oqc3" target="_blank">Creyton Nisly</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://bartoncc.prestosports.com/sports/mbowl/2019-20/bios/schwerdtfeger_cort_vhb1" target="_blank">Cort Schwerdtfeger</a>.In its first year of competition, Head Coach Mike Perry's women's squad finished national runner-up at the NJCAA Championships as the men placed 8th overall.Newell's academic honor compliments a national championship on the lanes as the freshman became the program's first individual champion after claiming the singles competition at the NJCAA Championships.1,030 student-athletes across all levels of collegiate competition earned academic Scholar Athlete status for the 2019-2020 season. For a complete list, visit the&nbsp;<a href="http://usbcongress.http.internapcdn.net/usbcongress/bowl/collegiate/2020NCBCAScholarAthleteAward.pdf" target="_blank">NCBCA Awards page</a>.

Seven Barton bowlers earn national Scholar Athlete Awards

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The smell of barbecue wafts through the parking lots hours before kickoff at Arrowhead Stadium, and when the first salvo of fireworks explode overhead, thousands of Chiefs fans begin to march en masse toward the entrance gates.

That’s how things normally are on an NFL game day in Kansas City.

But these days, very little is normal, and like so many things in life the football season ahead is rife with uncertainty. The coronavirus pandemic that brought sports to a standstill for months has everyone wondering what games will be like when spectators are finally allowed back in — and whether they will even want to show up.

The changes will be big and small, temporary and long-lasting.

Fans could have their every move scrutinized by cameras and lasers. There might be nobody in the next seat to high-five after a touchdown. The idea of passing cash to a beer vendor between innings will be a memory. Temperature screenings and medical checks could be mandatory to get in. By having virtual tickets scanned on their smart phones, fans could be acknowledging the health risk of attending a game while surrendering some of their personal privacy.

It all begs the question: Will fans be able to have any fun?

“There’s a wealth of unanticipated casualties, I guess, that are going to be part of this, things we all took for granted as part of the live game-day experience,” explained Nate Appleman, director of the sports, recreation and entertainment practice for Kansas City-based architectural firm HOK. “Some things we have yet to fathom but will become painfully clear once we are allowed back into venues and get back to truly human nature, which is to gather and celebrate community.”

Some leagues are returning with few or no fans, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/185e24c3aa636de347cd22bc2bc29d0f">soccer in Germany</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b0b5f4d0a268041fce95a1e92637089c">stock car racing in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4ab840a43120cbe7c50e03175e0a4eb3">baseball in Japan</a>. But as sports ramp up, The Associated Press found during interviews with more than two dozen experts in stadium design and infrastructure that the only thing that might look the same is what happens on the field of play.

The biggest short-term change will be social distancing, something that already has become a fact of everyday life. Ticket sales will be capped. Entire rows and sections will be blocked off. Seats on the aisle will be left open to maintain a buffer from those walking up the stairs. Fans will be given an entrance time to prevent crowding at the gates. Lines at restrooms and concessions will be limited. Congregating in the corridors will no longer be allowed.

The college football season is still some three months away, yet Iowa State anticipates capacity at Jack Trice Stadium will be cut in half based on “current guidelines established by state and local officials” — roughly the number of fans that have purchased season tickets. At Kansas, athletic director Jeff Long said the Jayhawks have planned for some 16,000 fans in Memorial Stadium this fall — about a third of official capacity.

Several NFL teams, including Miami and New Orleans, are modeling for reduced capacities this season. It will no doubt look different for fans in the stadium, not to mention the millions that will tune in on TV.

“There’s the old saying, ‘Necessity is the mother of invention.’ I would say we’re in a heightened situation of necessity right now,” Appleman said. “There are a lot of really smart people coming up with really cool initiatives that could just be a new way of doing things, and new isn’t always bad. Sometimes change is good. Sometimes we have to adapt.”

Indeed, such plans bring both hope and fear: hope that some fans will be able to see their favorite teams live and fear that colleges and leagues such as Major League Soccer that rely heavily on ticket sales will be able to make ends meet.

To help fill some of those gaps — both optically and financially — many facility operators have been exploring options with firms such as Arizona-based Bluemedia, which designs and produces screens that can cover large swaths of seats. Such screens already are used when arenas want to cap capacity or create more intimate settings, but Bluemedia vice president R.J. Orr said those same products can present sponsorship and marketing opportunities.

“Of course they can sell advertising,” Orr said, “but there are many ways to get creative. What if a ticket-sales guy went out to season-ticket holders and you can upload a photo and we can&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/185e24c3aa636de347cd22bc2bc29d0f">put your image in the stands</a>? We’re trying to come up with a bunch of cool ideas that may work.”

Other companies also are tailoring products to help with social distancing and crowd control.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the new home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, already has cashless systems in place for merchandise and concessions. Several professional teams are in talks with motion analytics company iinside, whose SafeDistance system uses lasers to map spaces and measure crowd density. At KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, a company called WaitTime utilizes an app to tell Sabres fans how long lines are at restrooms and concessions.

“We have a great opportunity to rewrite the new normal for the return of sports,” WaitTime founder Zack Klima said.

It all&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/88f837f24461c6e40480c96b55a4b6db">sounds a bit Orwellian</a>&nbsp;— like Big Brother is very much watching. And such systems do dance a fine line between informative and intrusive. But they also could help mitigate the spread of a virus, and that could make the difference between having Michigan Stadium empty on a fall Saturday or having 100,000 fans rooting on the Wolverines again.

Not everything will be as overt as barren concourses and empty seats, either. Most of the changes that colleges and teams are implementing will go unnoticed by those who settle in for the kickoff or first pitch.

Premier League club Tottenham recently opened its new London stadium after spending millions to create more than 1,600 WiFi access points and 700 Bluetooth beacons, ensuring fans are able to utilize crowd-density apps and other technology. Many facilities are upgrading heating, cooling and ventilation systems to scrub air as it circulates through their buildings, while others are toying with the use of QR codes to monitor the health of their patrons.

“We’re extrapolating off these trends that have already existed, and I think we’re going to kick-start into 2025 even though it’s only 2020,” said Jason Jennings, director of strategy and digital integration for the sports and entertainment group at Mortenson, which is wrapping construction on the Raiders’ new $2.4 billion stadium in Las Vegas. “The technology is going to be deployed much faster because of the value it has for the fan experience and public health.”

Even the way facilities are cleaned will change. No longer will hosing down seats and sweeping up trash left by fans be enough. Venue giant ASM Global recently announced a new hygiene protocol for its 325 facilities worldwide, noting the importance of hewing to international health recommendations from the likes of the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization.

Few professional teams have been willing to divulge their reopening strategies, whether that be potential seating layouts or infrastructure upgrades. The rapidly changing social and political environment coupled with the unpredictable nature of the virus have made planning difficult. But the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium recently committed to being the first public facility to receive a STAR rating from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council, which involves completing a rigorous program to help provide what Dolphins chief executive Tom Garfinkel “the safest environment possible.”

Of course, even that might not be enough. While much remains unknown about the novel coronavirus, one fact that is painfully clear is how easily it spreads. No league or team wants their games to become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ae59cfc0641fc63afd09182bb832ebe2">a “super spreader” event,</a>&nbsp;and everyone acknowledges all the preparations in the world cannot guarantee safety.

“In large masses, there is no system that can effectively prevent another person from giving germs to a second individual,” said Philip Tierno, clinical professor of pathology at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine. “If they sneeze or cough or talk directly, or even breathe directly on a person, there is no system that can prevent that.”

That hasn’t stopped sports facilities from spending millions of dollars during the months-long shutdown to minimize the risk. Giving fans some measure of confidence is an investment in the bottom line.

“We will get back to stadiums and watching football, basketball, baseball, etcetera, there is no question,” said Ryan Demmer, an epidemiologist at the University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health. “But it’s going to take a little bit of time to do it safely. And that’s going to take a little bit of innovation to do it safely in the short-term.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The smell of barbecue wafts through the parking lots hours before kickoff at Arrowhead Stadium, and when the first salvo of fireworks explode overhead, thousands of Chiefs fans begin to march en masse toward the entrance gates.That’s how things normally are on an NFL game day in Kansas City.But these days, very little is normal, and like so many things in life the football season ahead is rife with uncertainty. The coronavirus pandemic that brought sports to a standstill for months has everyone wondering what games will be like when spectators are finally allowed back in — and whether they will even want to show up.The changes will be big and small, temporary and long-lasting.Fans could have their every move scrutinized by cameras and lasers. There might be nobody in the next seat to high-five after a touchdown. The idea of passing cash to a beer vendor between innings will be a memory. Temperature screenings and medical checks could be mandatory to get in. By having virtual tickets scanned on their smart phones, fans could be acknowledging the health risk of attending a game while surrendering some of their personal privacy.It all begs the question: Will fans be able to have any fun?“There’s a wealth of unanticipated casualties, I guess, that are going to be part of this, things we all took for granted as part of the live game-day experience,” explained Nate Appleman, director of the sports, recreation and entertainment practice for Kansas City-based architectural firm HOK. “Some things we have yet to fathom but will become painfully clear once we are allowed back into venues and get back to truly human nature, which is to gather and celebrate community.”Some leagues are returning with few or no fans, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/185e24c3aa636de347cd22bc2bc29d0f">soccer in Germany</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b0b5f4d0a268041fce95a1e92637089c">stock car racing in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/4ab840a43120cbe7c50e03175e0a4eb3">baseball in Japan</a>. But as sports ramp up, The Associated Press found during interviews with more than two dozen experts in stadium design and infrastructure that the only thing that might look the same is what happens on the field of play.The biggest short-term change will be social distancing, something that already has become a fact of everyday life. Ticket sales will be capped. Entire rows and sections will be blocked off. Seats on the aisle will be left open to maintain a buffer from those walking up the stairs. Fans will be given an entrance time to prevent crowding at the gates. Lines at restrooms and concessions will be limited. Congregating in the corridors will no longer be allowed.The college football season is still some three months away, yet Iowa State anticipates capacity at Jack Trice Stadium will be cut in half based on “current guidelines established by state and local officials” — roughly the number of fans that have purchased season tickets. At Kansas, athletic director Jeff Long said the Jayhawks have planned for some 16,000 fans in Memorial Stadium this fall — about a third of official capacity.Several NFL teams, including Miami and New Orleans, are modeling for reduced capacities this season. It will no doubt look different for fans in the stadium, not to mention the millions that will tune in on TV.“There’s the old saying, ‘Necessity is the mother of invention.’ I would say we’re in a heightened situation of necessity right now,” Appleman said. “There are a lot of really smart people coming up with really cool initiatives that could just be a new way of doing things, and new isn’t always bad. Sometimes change is good. Sometimes we have to adapt.”Indeed, such plans bring both hope and fear: hope that some fans will be able to see their favorite teams live and fear that colleges and leagues such as Major League Soccer that rely heavily on ticket sales will be able to make ends meet.To help fill some of those gaps — both optically and financially — many facility operators have been exploring options with firms such as Arizona-based Bluemedia, which designs and produces screens that can cover large swaths of seats. Such screens already are used when arenas want to cap capacity or create more intimate settings, but Bluemedia vice president R.J. Orr said those same products can present sponsorship and marketing opportunities.“Of course they can sell advertising,” Orr said, “but there are many ways to get creative. What if a ticket-sales guy went out to season-ticket holders and you can upload a photo and we can&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/185e24c3aa636de347cd22bc2bc29d0f">put your image in the stands</a>? We’re trying to come up with a bunch of cool ideas that may work.”Other companies also are tailoring products to help with social distancing and crowd control.Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the new home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, already has cashless systems in place for merchandise and concessions. Several professional teams are in talks with motion analytics company iinside, whose SafeDistance system uses lasers to map spaces and measure crowd density. At KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, a company called WaitTime utilizes an app to tell Sabres fans how long lines are at restrooms and concessions.“We have a great opportunity to rewrite the new normal for the return of sports,” WaitTime founder Zack Klima said.It all&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/88f837f24461c6e40480c96b55a4b6db">sounds a bit Orwellian</a>&nbsp;— like Big Brother is very much watching. And such systems do dance a fine line between informative and intrusive. But they also could help mitigate the spread of a virus, and that could make the difference between having Michigan Stadium empty on a fall Saturday or having 100,000 fans rooting on the Wolverines again.Not everything will be as overt as barren concourses and empty seats, either. Most of the changes that colleges and teams are implementing will go unnoticed by those who settle in for the kickoff or first pitch.Premier League club Tottenham recently opened its new London stadium after spending millions to create more than 1,600 WiFi access points and 700 Bluetooth beacons, ensuring fans are able to utilize crowd-density apps and other technology. Many facilities are upgrading heating, cooling and ventilation systems to scrub air as it circulates through their buildings, while others are toying with the use of QR codes to monitor the health of their patrons.“We’re extrapolating off these trends that have already existed, and I think we’re going to kick-start into 2025 even though it’s only 2020,” said Jason Jennings, director of strategy and digital integration for the sports and entertainment group at Mortenson, which is wrapping construction on the Raiders’ new $2.4 billion stadium in Las Vegas. “The technology is going to be deployed much faster because of the value it has for the fan experience and public health.”Even the way facilities are cleaned will change. No longer will hosing down seats and sweeping up trash left by fans be enough. Venue giant ASM Global recently announced a new hygiene protocol for its 325 facilities worldwide, noting the importance of hewing to international health recommendations from the likes of the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization.Few professional teams have been willing to divulge their reopening strategies, whether that be potential seating layouts or infrastructure upgrades. The rapidly changing social and political environment coupled with the unpredictable nature of the virus have made planning difficult. But the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium recently committed to being the first public facility to receive a STAR rating from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council, which involves completing a rigorous program to help provide what Dolphins chief executive Tom Garfinkel “the safest environment possible.”Of course, even that might not be enough. While much remains unknown about the novel coronavirus, one fact that is painfully clear is how easily it spreads. No league or team wants their games to become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ae59cfc0641fc63afd09182bb832ebe2">a “super spreader” event,</a>&nbsp;and everyone acknowledges all the preparations in the world cannot guarantee safety.“In large masses, there is no system that can effectively prevent another person from giving germs to a second individual,” said Philip Tierno, clinical professor of pathology at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine. “If they sneeze or cough or talk directly, or even breathe directly on a person, there is no system that can prevent that.”That hasn’t stopped sports facilities from spending millions of dollars during the months-long shutdown to minimize the risk. Giving fans some measure of confidence is an investment in the bottom line.“We will get back to stadiums and watching football, basketball, baseball, etcetera, there is no question,” said Ryan Demmer, an epidemiologist at the University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health. “But it’s going to take a little bit of time to do it safely. And that’s going to take a little bit of innovation to do it safely in the short-term.”

Future of stadiums, arenas promises high tech, low capacity

Due to the on-going developments related to COVID-19 the Big 12 Conference previously announced that all team activities whether required or voluntary, including team and individual practices, meetings, and other organized gatherings, were suspended until May 31 and would be re-evaluated at that time. In addition, all conference and non- conference competitions were cancelled through the end of the academic year, including spring sports that compete beyond the academic year. After re-evaluation, the following Big 12 Student-Athlete policies become effective June 1.

Each institution should use its discretion to make the best decision for its student-athletes when determining when student-athletes return to campus prior to the first permissible date to begin voluntary activity.

1.&nbsp; No in-person, required team activities of any type, in any location.

a.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Football: Voluntary on-campus activity is permissible beginning&nbsp;June 15.

b.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other Fall Sports: Voluntary on-campus activity is permissible beginning&nbsp;July 1.

c.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Basketball: Voluntary on-campus activity is permissible beginning&nbsp;July 6.

d.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All Other Sports: Voluntary on-campus activity is permissible beginning&nbsp;July 15.

--sports medicine treatments, physical therapy and rehabilitation

9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Big 12 Conference Board and Directors of Athletics will convene regularly to assess changing circumstances and to make shared decisions regarding amendments to the above-listed policies. The policies noted will commence at 7am CDT, Monday, June 1, 2020 and remain in effect until further notice or until additional guidance is provided.

10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Decisions on the structure, schedule and components of training during the post Pandemic period will be made as circumstances dictate.

Big 12 Camps, Clinics and Other Instruction Policy

Virtual and in-person institutional camps and clinics with individuals are prohibited through August 31, 2020. In addition, athletics department staff members are prohibited from the following: (1) working, volunteering or otherwise participating in any outside camps and clinics with individuals, including virtual and fantasy camps; (2) working, volunteering or otherwise participating with a local sports club; and (3) providing private lessons to any individual. Coaching clinics involving coach-to-coach interaction are permissible.

Due to the on-going developments related to COVID-19 the Big 12 Conference previously announced that all team activities whether required or voluntary, including team and individual practices, meetings, and other organized gatherings, were suspended until May 31 and would be re-evaluated at that time. In addition, all conference and non- conference competitions were cancelled through the end of the academic year, including spring sports that compete beyond the academic year. After re-evaluation, the following Big 12 Student-Athlete policies become effective June 1.Each institution should use its discretion to make the best decision for its student-athletes when determining when student-athletes return to campus prior to the first permissible date to begin voluntary activity.1.&nbsp; No in-person, required team activities of any type, in any location.<ol>
 <li>No in-person, voluntary activities (e.g., workouts, film study sessions, meetings, technique drills or captains’ practices/OTA sessions) of any type, in any location.</li>
 </ol>a.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Football: Voluntary on-campus activity is permissible beginning&nbsp;June 15.b.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other Fall Sports: Voluntary on-campus activity is permissible beginning&nbsp;July 1.c.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Basketball: Voluntary on-campus activity is permissible beginning&nbsp;July 6.d.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All Other Sports: Voluntary on-campus activity is permissible beginning&nbsp;July 15.<ol>
 <li>Virtual or on-line supervised physical workouts and skill instruction, regardless of location, are not permitted.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>All required “virtual” activities, including film study, are limited to eight hours per week in all sports. Only countable coaches may conduct virtual film study, technical discussions, tactical sessions and other non-physical activities. These policies will be revisited and adjusted at regular intervals and as circumstances dictate.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Coaches can recommend written, self-directed workout plans provided&nbsp; they&nbsp; are approved in accordance with proper procedures&nbsp; as&nbsp; outlined by each institution’s appropriate sport performance, medical and/or athletic training personnel (and in accordance with the NCAA Recommendations on Preventing Catastrophic Injury and Death). Taped demonstration videos on respective workout plans are allowed in order to demonstrate proper form and technique. Institutional personnel may not supervise, conduct or monitor workouts on or off campus.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>In-person, on-campus meals and nutritional supplements may be provided pursuant to NCAA guidance. Off-campus nutritional supplements are limited to the permissible items as outlined in NCAA Bylaw 16.5.2.8.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>It is fully permissible to provide non-athletically-related support to student-athletes including:</li>
 </ol>--sports medicine treatments, physical therapy and rehabilitation--academic support--mental health and wellness support<ol>
 <li>It is permissible for institutions to provide student-athletes with apparel and personal equipment that is regularly available to student-athletes when they are on campus for conditioning workouts. The provision of other equipment is not to extend to rental, purchase or arrangement of conditioning or strength training equipment or machines (e.g. stationary bicycles, treadmills, free weights, benches or weight machines) but is intended to allow for reasonable supplies such as stretching band/straps, foam rollers, etc. It is not permissible to provide incoming signed prospects with apparel or equipment until they trigger student-athlete status.</li>
 </ol>9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Big 12 Conference Board and Directors of Athletics will convene regularly to assess changing circumstances and to make shared decisions regarding amendments to the above-listed policies. The policies noted will commence at 7am CDT, Monday, June 1, 2020 and remain in effect until further notice or until additional guidance is provided.10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Decisions on the structure, schedule and components of training during the post Pandemic period will be made as circumstances dictate.Big 12 Camps, Clinics and Other Instruction PolicyVirtual and in-person institutional camps and clinics with individuals are prohibited through August 31, 2020. In addition, athletics department staff members are prohibited from the following: (1) working, volunteering or otherwise participating in any outside camps and clinics with individuals, including virtual and fantasy camps; (2) working, volunteering or otherwise participating with a local sports club; and (3) providing private lessons to any individual. Coaching clinics involving coach-to-coach interaction are permissible.Big 12 Press Release

Big 12 releases a revised Student-Athlete athletic activities policy

KANSAS CITY, Mo –&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals issued a statement concerning racial injustice. It is as follows.

Words alone fail us.&nbsp; There is no place in our world for the senseless acts of racial injustice that have tragically taken lives.&nbsp; No place in Kansas City, nor in any city.&nbsp;&nbsp; Not today, not ever.&nbsp;

We humbly stand in solidarity and peaceful protest with the Black community, both here and across America.&nbsp; We pledge to actively and intentionally use our voice for good. And to live by a standard that says we treat&nbsp;all&nbsp;of us the way&nbsp;each&nbsp;of us wants to be treated.&nbsp;

The Kansas City Royals are committed to doing all we can, wherever we can, to help turn this moment into the sustained change we seek.

KANSAS CITY, Mo –&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals issued a statement concerning racial injustice. It is as follows.Words alone fail us.&nbsp; There is no place in our world for the senseless acts of racial injustice that have tragically taken lives.&nbsp; No place in Kansas City, nor in any city.&nbsp;&nbsp; Not today, not ever.&nbsp;We humbly stand in solidarity and peaceful protest with the Black community, both here and across America.&nbsp; We pledge to actively and intentionally use our voice for good. And to live by a standard that says we treat&nbsp;all&nbsp;of us the way&nbsp;each&nbsp;of us wants to be treated.&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals are committed to doing all we can, wherever we can, to help turn this moment into the sustained change we seek.

Royals issue statement concerning racial injustice

LAWRENCE -- The University of Kansas Athletics has issued statements against racism.

“Our core mission of Kansas Athletics is to protect the health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes. We do not tolerate any acts of racism or violence and promote an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusivity. We celebrate individuals from all walks of life and do not discriminate based on background, color of skin, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or anything else. Recent acts of racial divide and violence are unacceptable. We respect and support each and every one of our 450-plus student-athletes and value their individuality. We join together as an athletic department, united in hopes to end the unconscionable acts of racism.”

Statement from men’s basketball head coach Bill Self

“In most of our lives, things are only put into perspective because of an event that directly affects us or someone close to us. However, the recent tragedies over the past week are something that should personally affect each individual across this country that requires our full commitment to create change. The avoidable death of George Floyd, and too many others, saddens my family greatly.

It is incomprehensible that this level of racism still occurs in this day and age, and it’s unacceptable. Anyone possessing basic human kindness must support each other and stand up for those that have been oppressed for far too long.

No one should have to worry that they will be treated differently, or worse yet fear for their lives on a daily basis, simply because the color of their skin or where they are from.

The conversations we have had as a team recently about the racial acts of violence is one that no amount of words can ever do justice. I am frustrated that we as a country have not done our part to create equal rights for all individuals. We must be better.”

Statement from football head coach Les Miles

“As a football coach, I have had the good fortune of bringing young men together from different backgrounds to achieve a common goal – becoming a team.

I have struggled to express the feelings and emotions with the events that have occurred over the past several days. My deepest condolences to the Floyd family. I am a father, and also a coach to many players both past and present who have enriched my life, and I am thankful for that.

I’ve had players from around the country with a variety of backgrounds and have truly enjoyed working with and serving those quality young men. I encourage these men to go be leaders and make a positive impact in the world.

My heart hurts as I reflect on the racism that still exists in this country and the civil unrest we currently find ourselves in. Regardless of race and color we cannot keep turning a blind eye to those that need our support through words and actions now more than ever.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590981585666.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE -- The University of Kansas Athletics has issued statements against racism.Unified against racism“Our core mission of Kansas Athletics is to protect the health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes. We do not tolerate any acts of racism or violence and promote an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusivity. We celebrate individuals from all walks of life and do not discriminate based on background, color of skin, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or anything else. Recent acts of racial divide and violence are unacceptable. We respect and support each and every one of our 450-plus student-athletes and value their individuality. We join together as an athletic department, united in hopes to end the unconscionable acts of racism.”Statement from men’s basketball head coach Bill Self“In most of our lives, things are only put into perspective because of an event that directly affects us or someone close to us. However, the recent tragedies over the past week are something that should personally affect each individual across this country that requires our full commitment to create change. The avoidable death of George Floyd, and too many others, saddens my family greatly.It is incomprehensible that this level of racism still occurs in this day and age, and it’s unacceptable. Anyone possessing basic human kindness must support each other and stand up for those that have been oppressed for far too long.No one should have to worry that they will be treated differently, or worse yet fear for their lives on a daily basis, simply because the color of their skin or where they are from.The conversations we have had as a team recently about the racial acts of violence is one that no amount of words can ever do justice. I am frustrated that we as a country have not done our part to create equal rights for all individuals. We must be better.”Statement from football head coach Les Miles“As a football coach, I have had the good fortune of bringing young men together from different backgrounds to achieve a common goal – becoming a team.I have struggled to express the feelings and emotions with the events that have occurred over the past several days. My deepest condolences to the Floyd family. I am a father, and also a coach to many players both past and present who have enriched my life, and I am thankful for that.I’ve had players from around the country with a variety of backgrounds and have truly enjoyed working with and serving those quality young men. I encourage these men to go be leaders and make a positive impact in the world.My heart hurts as I reflect on the racism that still exists in this country and the civil unrest we currently find ourselves in. Regardless of race and color we cannot keep turning a blind eye to those that need our support through words and actions now more than ever.God Bless.”

KU Athletics issues statements against racism

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Kansas City Chiefs assistant coaches recently talked football with the media. Following are their comments.

ASSISTANT SPECIAL TEAMS COACH ANDY HILL

Q: Growing up in Trenton, Mo., were you a Chiefs fan? And you were in camp with the Chiefs in 1985. What do you remember about that experience?

HILL: “Trenton, Mo., is 1000 percent Kansas City Chiefs. My parents used to take me down to the training camp at William Jewell. In 1985, when I was lucky enough to have the choice between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Seattle Seahawks and the Kansas City Chiefs, I obviously chose the Chiefs to come to training camp. Back then, they used to cut the Monday after preseason games, so every Monday, you’re holding your breakfast tray hoping the ‘turk’ wouldn’t get you and make eye contact with you. I made it until the last cut. I know that was the year they cut back, but they had a bunch of good receivers – Carlos Carson, Stephone Paige, Henry Marshall, a bunch of guys that were really good players and I was very fortunate just to get the tryout.”

Q: The NFL owners approved a couple of things today, but they also tabled the 4th and 15 discussion as a replacement to the onside kick. What are your thoughts on the conversation that they’re looking at creating an alternative to the onside kick and the fact that they’ve tabled it for right now?

HILL: “Well, that’s certainly a question for Andy Reid and Dave Toub in the sense that I’m sure that the reason they tabled it is because it’s such a wide-ranging variety of what people think about it. I saw what Coach Reid said and I’ll stick with what Coach Reid said, I think that we’ve got guys that can make the play either way. As a special teams guy, you’d like to keep it (the onside kick) in there.”

Q: Joining the coaching staff, what’s it been like for you to get acclimated to the team in terms of your fellow coaches and the players?

HILL: “Well, I was there in the very first part of March and so the Super Bowl win was still very fresh in the building. The positive mojo and the positive vibes from all the Chiefs – not just the coaches, but all the personnel in the entire building – was something that really was phenomenal for me, was certainly a breath of fresh air, and was something that if we can keep that chemistry going and all the positive vibes going, it’s really special.”

Q: You and Dave Toub go back quite a long time. How’s that friendship been, what’s it meant to you and do you have any good Dave Toub stories?

HILL: “Well I’m in my basement right now and Dave Toub, before he got hired by Andy Reid in Philadelphia, was finishing out my basement. If you ask about half the people in Columbia, Missouri, if they have a house addition or a basement finished, Dave Toub was probably doing it at the time he was here. But Dave and I have kept in great touch. When he was lucky enough to get to the NFL with Coach Reid back in Philadelphia, I didn’t ever go out to Philadelphia, but when he got hired at the Chicago Bears back early in the 2000s, I went up several times to visit him and all their other coaches because I was coaching some special teams at the time but also mostly wide receivers and different positions. So, I would go to the Bears. I’ve been very fortunate the last couple years when he’s been with the Chiefs in Kansas City, I recruited Kansas City for the Missouri Tigers back then, and I’d stop by practice this time of year actually, after Memorial Day, when they were in phase three of OTAs and I had the chance to go by a practice or two. The last couple of years we had Jeremy Maclin, Chase Daniel, Mitch Morse and some guys and so I was very fortunate to get in there and see them. Our relationship has been pretty much the same the entire time.”

Q: I know Willie Gay is just getting started, but looking at his skillset, what do you think he brings to your group that maybe you didn’t have last year?

HOUSE: “We really love his athleticism. He’s got a good frame, he’s big and he can run.”

Q: How has the experience been for you and your players to go through this offseason virtually? You feel like the players have been attentive and picking up on things that you’re working on?

HOUSE: “Yeah, I’ve been very pleased with the linebacker room and how they’ve embraced what we’re doing. I think they’ve grown within our scheme during this time.”

Q: The organization is invested in a guy like Willie Gay after using a draft pick on him. But with this being such an odd time with only being virtual and not being on the field, what do you think you’re missing in terms of the details for a guy like him who is completely new?

HOUSE: “Well, I’ll be honest with you, I haven’t really looked at it that way. As coaches, our job is to adapt and adjust, and in the times that we’ve been in, that’s kind of what we’ve been doing. Really, it’s been great because I don’t know if you get this much individual meeting time normally because you are racing to get out on the field. So hopefully it clears up any questions that he has in his mind so that when we do get out on the grass, we can hit the ground running.”

Q: Every team is going through a similar situation right now, and there’s no real blueprint for it. How much do you enjoy the challenge of figuring out how to handle this offseason?

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Kansas City Chiefs assistant coaches recently talked football with the media. Following are their comments.ASSISTANT SPECIAL TEAMS COACH ANDY HILLQ: Growing up in Trenton, Mo., were you a Chiefs fan? And you were in camp with the Chiefs in 1985. What do you remember about that experience?HILL: “Trenton, Mo., is 1000 percent Kansas City Chiefs. My parents used to take me down to the training camp at William Jewell. In 1985, when I was lucky enough to have the choice between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Seattle Seahawks and the Kansas City Chiefs, I obviously chose the Chiefs to come to training camp. Back then, they used to cut the Monday after preseason games, so every Monday, you’re holding your breakfast tray hoping the ‘turk’ wouldn’t get you and make eye contact with you. I made it until the last cut. I know that was the year they cut back, but they had a bunch of good receivers – Carlos Carson, Stephone Paige, Henry Marshall, a bunch of guys that were really good players and I was very fortunate just to get the tryout.”Q: The NFL owners approved a couple of things today, but they also tabled the 4th and 15 discussion as a replacement to the onside kick. What are your thoughts on the conversation that they’re looking at creating an alternative to the onside kick and the fact that they’ve tabled it for right now?HILL: “Well, that’s certainly a question for Andy Reid and Dave Toub in the sense that I’m sure that the reason they tabled it is because it’s such a wide-ranging variety of what people think about it. I saw what Coach Reid said and I’ll stick with what Coach Reid said, I think that we’ve got guys that can make the play either way. As a special teams guy, you’d like to keep it (the onside kick) in there.”Q: Joining the coaching staff, what’s it been like for you to get acclimated to the team in terms of your fellow coaches and the players?HILL: “Well, I was there in the very first part of March and so the Super Bowl win was still very fresh in the building. The positive mojo and the positive vibes from all the Chiefs – not just the coaches, but all the personnel in the entire building – was something that really was phenomenal for me, was certainly a breath of fresh air, and was something that if we can keep that chemistry going and all the positive vibes going, it’s really special.”Q: You and Dave Toub go back quite a long time. How’s that friendship been, what’s it meant to you and do you have any good Dave Toub stories?HILL: “Well I’m in my basement right now and Dave Toub, before he got hired by Andy Reid in Philadelphia, was finishing out my basement. If you ask about half the people in Columbia, Missouri, if they have a house addition or a basement finished, Dave Toub was probably doing it at the time he was here. But Dave and I have kept in great touch. When he was lucky enough to get to the NFL with Coach Reid back in Philadelphia, I didn’t ever go out to Philadelphia, but when he got hired at the Chicago Bears back early in the 2000s, I went up several times to visit him and all their other coaches because I was coaching some special teams at the time but also mostly wide receivers and different positions. So, I would go to the Bears. I’ve been very fortunate the last couple years when he’s been with the Chiefs in Kansas City, I recruited Kansas City for the Missouri Tigers back then, and I’d stop by practice this time of year actually, after Memorial Day, when they were in phase three of OTAs and I had the chance to go by a practice or two. The last couple of years we had Jeremy Maclin, Chase Daniel, Mitch Morse and some guys and so I was very fortunate to get in there and see them. Our relationship has been pretty much the same the entire time.”LINEBACKERS COACH MATT HOUSEQ: I know Willie Gay is just getting started, but looking at his skillset, what do you think he brings to your group that maybe you didn’t have last year?HOUSE: “We really love his athleticism. He’s got a good frame, he’s big and he can run.”Q: How has the experience been for you and your players to go through this offseason virtually? You feel like the players have been attentive and picking up on things that you’re working on?HOUSE: “Yeah, I’ve been very pleased with the linebacker room and how they’ve embraced what we’re doing. I think they’ve grown within our scheme during this time.”Q: The organization is invested in a guy like Willie Gay after using a draft pick on him. But with this being such an odd time with only being virtual and not being on the field, what do you think you’re missing in terms of the details for a guy like him who is completely new?HOUSE: “Well, I’ll be honest with you, I haven’t really looked at it that way. As coaches, our job is to adapt and adjust, and in the times that we’ve been in, that’s kind of what we’ve been doing. Really, it’s been great because I don’t know if you get this much individual meeting time normally because you are racing to get out on the field. So hopefully it clears up any questions that he has in his mind so that when we do get out on the grass, we can hit the ground running.”Q: Every team is going through a similar situation right now, and there’s no real blueprint for it. How much do you enjoy the challenge of figuring out how to handle this offseason?HOUSE: “Yeah, I think the good thing is it’s still teaching. Coaching is just teaching. One of the things, we’ve had to use different platforms, but at the end of the day, you’re still teaching off of the same concepts and using video and using the different avenues you have available to yourself and the group. There’s some trial and error for sure, but all-in-all, it’s still teaching in my mind.”RUN GAME COORDINATOR/DEFENSIVE LINE COACH BRENDAN DALYQ: You’ve had some movement on the defensive line. What does Taco Charlton bring to the group? And how important is this upcoming year for a guy like Breeland Speaks?DALY: “Well, you’re right. Both of those guys are coming back into the fold or are new to the group, and we’ve got some other guys in that category as well that spent some time injured or are coming to us, but specifically with those two, Breeland has done a nice job in terms of his rehab, in terms of working post-surgery, he’s had some good time in terms of recovery. We’ll see. I’ve got high expectations for him. The third year, I’ve found over the course of my career, is a year that guys kind of define themselves in a lot of instances. Hopefully we’re going to see that out of Breeland. I’ve got great anticipation and hope for what we’re going to see out of him when we can get back on the field. As far as Taco is concerned, we’ve had him for a couple of weeks. I would say it’s probably a little bit early to make some of those judgements based on not having seen him move around at all or having been with him on the field. He’s done a great job in our meeting settings, I’ve been impressed with his work ethic in terms of trying to learn the system and get up to speed with our vocabulary, terminology and on the same page with the rest of the group. We’ll see how that goes. I look forward to getting him out there and seeing what that looks like, to be honest.”Q: As someone who coaches with passion and likes to have that one-on-one interaction with his players, how difficult has this time and the virtual offseason program been for you?DALY: “I would say I’m missing that element of things, for sure. But it is what it is. You’ve got to be able to adapt, to change and adapt to the situation, and that’s what we’ve tried to do. The meetings have been really good, I’ve been pleased with what we’ve gotten out of them, I think they’ve been productive. I credit the players for doing a great job in terms of their attention. They’ve brought some things to the table there, I think it’s been engaging, as best we can make it. Obviously, it’s not the same as being on the field, but we’re all working under the same parameters and are trying to do the best job that we can with the situation as it’s been unfolding.”Q: How do you think the players have received the virtual teaching on their end? And as far as the rookies, how do think they’re picking things up?DALY: “In terms of the format, I would say there have been some challenges both from a coaches’ standpoint in preparing things, and from a players’ standpoint in functioning in that environment. That’s good, I think that’s invigorating in a lot of ways, and those types of challenge ultimately help you improve. If you don’t get out of your comfort zone ever, you kind of just stay stagnant and do the same old thing. I have certainly found that to be the case with my preparation for the meetings, it’s challenged me to come up with creative things to keep it interesting, different ways to come at presenting information or quizzing information. So, I won’t say that it’s been easy by any means, but it has been challenging and interesting. The players, you’d have to ask them. I don’t know if they’d have the same perception of how that’s going or not. It’s new, it’s different, and I do think that there are probably some pieces of it that will probably last, even moving forward, just in terms of teaching. It’s been fun in some elements of it from that regard. You get this with every rookie class, you get some separate time with those guys on their own, just the young guys, and that’s invaluable time. A lot of times they’re not willing to jump out there in a group setting and ask questions and admit they don’t know things – even though you know they don’t have it all figured out. So those individual segments when you have them are important and you really do get to see a lot more personality out of them, a lot more about who they are in a more relaxed environment. Both Mike (Danna) and Tershawn Wharton have been fantastic in that setting. I’ve really been impressed by those two guys, most specifically in their work ethic and the time they’re putting in on their own when we’re not actually engaged on a call. That’s been one of the most impressive elements for those two guys.”DEFENSIVE BACKS/CORNERBACKS SAM MADISONQ: What are your overall impressions of L’Jarius Sneed and BoPete Keyes?MADISON: “I love it, man. I told [Brett] Veach last year that we didn’t get any corners and he was like, ‘Sam, just relax there’s going to be some more’. Then luckily for these two guys and we get them into the room now and we understand and see why he felt that way. These guys have been spot on, very good with the questions that we ask on a consistent basis. The things that Coach Spags [Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo] asks of them they’re doing their best right now. So, if they’re willing to do this and continue to do it throughout the course of their career that means they did some really good work on the backgrounds of these kids. Me and Coach [Dave] Merritt are enjoying them every day.”Q: From what you’ve seen from Antonio Hamilton on film. What does he need to do to get some playing time with the Chiefs?MADISON: “Playmaking ability. Coach Spags is always talking about it and we preach it. Getting the ball back to the offense as many times as possible. We had guys in positions last year and looking forward we’re looking for guys to make those plays. In your first year in the scheme, in the defense you don’t really know how to make the plays because you don’t understand the scheme, but now they’ve been into it for a year. They understand how to make the plays, where the play is going to be made because now they understand Coach Spags’ system and what’s the reasoning behind the things that he’s doing. So that’s the part we’re looking for Hamilton to come in and be versatile just like the majority of our secondary guys and he’s doing very well so far in these virtual meetings.”Q: What do you think worked for Charvarius Ward in your first year working together and what do you think his attitude is going into the second year in the scheme, with the possibility of him growing even more?MADISON: “Understanding his strengths and his weaknesses and he was able to display it. He was able to take criticism of it when he wasn’t doing good and when he was doing great, he was able to continue to fight through the high points when he was getting the praise. Now he’s got to put it all together. He’s going into his third year, he’s gotten the reps. That was the great part about it, getting those guys the reps to understand, to see, to know what the route concept is. Tyrann [Mathieu] he’s played a lot of football games. He understands route concepts, what people want to do. Just getting these guys to understand how to study film was one of the great things that Coach Merritt was able to implement with these guys and now they understand why we’re doing certain things. Just clearing up the technique. Like the gentleman asked before, what do we have to do when we get back? Little small techniques were the things that really hurt a lot of us in the plays that we gave up. Should’ve had some big plays out of all of these guys, but those are the things that they’ll have to correct and get better at going forward.”Q: Other than Charvarius Ward and Bashaud Breeland, what options do you feel like you have at the cornerback position and why those players fit?MADISON: “Hamilton. We brought him in to be able to come out and compete but when you look at the landscape of offenses this year, you’re going to have three wide receivers on the football field every single time so you need to find that third corner. Having an opportunity to draft Sneed, a big corner, physical guy, knows how to attack the ball at the highest point. Those are the things for each and every last one of our guys that we need to get better at as the percentage is 50/50 of balls thrown downfield. Sneed, Keyes, you look at Hamilton, we brought in men to come in and solidify themselves. One guy I’m excited about is Rashad Fenton. You look at later on in the season, even going into the Super Bowl the kid, he made plays. He has to see those concepts, understand them, Tyrann was able to help him and work through them and we were able to put a pretty good run with these guys. Going later on when Breeland went down a couple of series, he went out there and he played corner and he held his own. We’re going to put these guys, just like we did last year, in a lot of different places and see what comes up. Coach Spags has a really good mixture of guys that he can play with. We can coach these guys up and get them to understand how to play together, the sky is the limit, going out there and making plays.”RUNNING BACKS COACH DELAND MCCULLOUGHQ: What does Clyde Edwards-Helaire bring to the table?MCCULLOUGH: “I like his short-area quickness, his ability to make guys miss in short spaces. I like the fact that he makes the first guy miss either by just making him miss or running through him. Probably the number one thing I like is his disposition, his demeaner, his football mind. He’s very smart. It’s been evident through what we’ve seen through the combine process and everything leading up to the draft. And he’s not disappointed at all during the process with all the virtual meetings he’s in.”Q: What tells you that Damien Williams can continue to be your starter? And how did he take the news of the team drafting a running back in the first round?MCCULLOUGH: “One thing is looking at Damien’s past, I think since coming to the Chiefs, we’ve gotten a whole lot out of him. He’s been able to show not only us, but whoever looked at him previously that he’s a higher-end player. Consistency is something he wants to continue to work on. But I think when he shined, he shined at a level to help us get over a hump in a few games, and obviously helped win the Super Bowl. As far as how he reacted to the drafting of Clyde, Damien is a veteran. He’s going to continue to do the things he needs to do, control what he can control, embracing guys and continue to move forward.”Q: What do you think Clyde’s role in this offense will be? What about Darwin Thompson in year 2?MCCULLOUGH: “Everybody in this offense, all the halfbacks need to be able to do everything. They need to be able to do everything, and then we’ll let everything sort itself out from there. Clyde, he’s not going to be pigeon-holed into ‘This guy is going to be a third-down back or this guy is this or this guy is that.’ He’s going to take on everything the offense has and we’ll let the chips fall as they may. Same thing with Darwin. It’s going to be an opportunity for him this year. Another guy I’m very excited about. He had a whole lot of things last year that didn’t necessarily work against him, but just the fact that he was a rookie. He had some limited opportunities. He did some things that were good. He did some things that he needed to improve on. He took inventory of the things that he needed to improve on, and he’s ready to come out and do those things. So, again, a room full of great competitors, bunch of great players, guys that can do a bunch of things. And the beauty of this is when we’re able to get back on the field, we’re going to be able to start sorting out where guys fall, but in the meantime, every man in that room is preparing to do everything.”Q: Can you talk about the level of competition in the running backs room? And what are your thoughts on having a starting running back vs. doing it by committee?MCCULLOUGH: “Like I said earlier, you want to get all these guys out there. You want to get going and see what we’ve got. One thing we know just looking at some guys’ pasts and snapshots we’ve got of guys, whether it be DeAndre Washington, obviously with Darrel (Williams) and Damien (Williams) and Darwin (Thompson) with us. And then you look at we drafted Clyde and what his body of work was in college, you know we have some high-end players in that room. And I know with some guys returning, guys we feel comfortable with, but again, you always want to enhance the room and create competition and raise the level of the room. I think that’s what we have. How it all shakes down ultimately, we’re going to let that thing play out on the football field. That’s the beauty of our game. We’ll get a chance to go out, and let’s see what’s what. So, our whole room knows that. The guys are looking forward to it. They get along well, very competitive, however, very supportive, also. And they know at the end of the day, what they do will speak to what their role is when the season gets started. I’m looking forward to that.”

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