ELLSWORTH COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Friday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Ford Explorer driven by Michael L.&nbsp;Berkgren, 54, Oakley, was eastbound on Interstate 70 near the Sylvan Grove exit.

The SUV traveled over a slick spot while snow was blowing across the highway. The vehicle entered the median, struck a drain grate, went airborne, rolled and came to rest on its top in the median.

EMS transported&nbsp;Berkgren and a passenger Chelsey&nbsp; Schiltz, 39, Oakley, to Hays Medical Center.&nbsp; Berkgren was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Friday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Ford Explorer driven by Michael L.&nbsp;Berkgren, 54, Oakley, was eastbound on Interstate 70 near the Sylvan Grove exit.The SUV traveled over a slick spot while snow was blowing across the highway. The vehicle entered the median, struck a drain grate, went airborne, rolled and came to rest on its top in the median.EMS transported&nbsp;Berkgren and a passenger Chelsey&nbsp; Schiltz, 39, Oakley, to Hays Medical Center.&nbsp; Berkgren was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after violent SUV rollover accident

Estate planning presentation in Great Bend

Making more resources and funding available for communities through the Kansas Department of Transportation's Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program is helping increase safety and improve the health and wellness of students as they walk, bike or roll to school.

The program helps provide the framework for local areas to enhance multimodal infrastructure and non-infrastructure plans now and in the future.

“Being active before school helps students concentrate and improves alertness and memory,” said Ann Katt, KDOT’s SRTS Coordinator. “Students arrive and are ready to learn."

As part of this effort, the first SRTS Strategic Action Plan has been published, which outlines past progress and future strategies. In the last 18 months, a statewide online survey, workshops for advisory committee members and discussions with various focus groups have taken place to engage stakeholders and the public.

“This plan details KDOT’s commitment to providing resources that help support safe communities for students and families of all backgrounds and abilities,” Katt said.

This information will allow KDOT to prioritize efforts and expand multimodal opportunities across the state. People are encouraged to help build the SRTS network:

Join the SRTS email list –&nbsp;receive the SRTS e-newsletter and other information and share with family and friends.

Register your school&nbsp;– learn about SRTS resources, events and networks to help promote walking, biking and rolling to school.

Check out KDOT’s website –&nbsp;discover more ways to get started with SRTS at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsaferoutes.ksdot.gov%2Fgetting-started%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010194f5660cc4-d12368be-6422-4dc3-a88c-213bdab4d70a-000000/vYCC4n_3kHtbMCFB-o-s6XNdqGArFe12xk0piJIhK60=391">Getting Started — Kansas Safe Routes to School</a>

About KDOT Safe Routes to School&nbsp;&nbsp;

Making more resources and funding available for communities through the Kansas Department of Transportation's Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program is helping increase safety and improve the health and wellness of students as they walk, bike or roll to school.The program helps provide the framework for local areas to enhance multimodal infrastructure and non-infrastructure plans now and in the future.“Being active before school helps students concentrate and improves alertness and memory,” said Ann Katt, KDOT’s SRTS Coordinator. “Students arrive and are ready to learn."As part of this effort, the first SRTS Strategic Action Plan has been published, which outlines past progress and future strategies. In the last 18 months, a statewide online survey, workshops for advisory committee members and discussions with various focus groups have taken place to engage stakeholders and the public.“This plan details KDOT’s commitment to providing resources that help support safe communities for students and families of all backgrounds and abilities,” Katt said.This information will allow KDOT to prioritize efforts and expand multimodal opportunities across the state. People are encouraged to help build the SRTS network:Join the SRTS email list –&nbsp;receive the SRTS e-newsletter and other information and share with family and friends.Register your school&nbsp;– learn about SRTS resources, events and networks to help promote walking, biking and rolling to school.Check out KDOT’s website –&nbsp;discover more ways to get started with SRTS at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsaferoutes.ksdot.gov%2Fgetting-started%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010194f5660cc4-d12368be-6422-4dc3-a88c-213bdab4d70a-000000/vYCC4n_3kHtbMCFB-o-s6XNdqGArFe12xk0piJIhK60=391">Getting Started — Kansas Safe Routes to School</a>About KDOT Safe Routes to School&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas SRTS program helps expand safety for students

The Great Bend Recreation Commission and Great Bend Senior Center co-sponsored a “Valentine Party” on Friday, Feb. 14 at the Senior Center. The afternoon included the crowning of a Senior Center King and Queen and a party that included entertainment from Park Elementary School students.&nbsp;&nbsp;

King –&nbsp; Monte Stambaugh &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Queen – Evelyn Reiser-Kaiser&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739560835221.jpeg" alt="Evelyn Reiser-Kaiser and Monte Stambaugh were named the 2025 Great Bend Senior Center Queen and King." />
 <figcaption>Evelyn Reiser-Kaiser and Monte Stambaugh were named the 2025 Great Bend Senior Center Queen and King.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Recreation Commission and Great Bend Senior Center co-sponsored a “Valentine Party” on Friday, Feb. 14 at the Senior Center. The afternoon included the crowning of a Senior Center King and Queen and a party that included entertainment from Park Elementary School students.&nbsp;&nbsp;King –&nbsp; Monte Stambaugh &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Queen – Evelyn Reiser-Kaiser&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739560931148.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Great Bend Senior Center names King & Queen

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Amy France from Scott City Kansas. She is chairman of the National Sorghum Producers Association and testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yjo5T4F0Z5Y?si=zvLRdXCigR7GItCb" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Amy France from Scott City Kansas. She is chairman of the National Sorghum Producers Association and testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week.

Forward Ever: Amy France, chairman of National Sorghum Producers Association

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Thousands of eggs and hundreds of children. The popular Flashlight Easter
Egg Hunt, hosted by the Great Bend Recreation Commission, returns this spring
at the Great Bend Sports Complex. 

Great Bend Rec Marketing Director Megan
Hammeke said the date this year for the hunt is April 5. 

"We did have to move it up a week this year," said Hammeke. "Normally, we do it the weekend before Easter, but the weekend before Easter this year is prom. So we're two weeks before Easter this year."

Last year there were more than 360 children, between the ages of three and 12,
searching for eggs on the ballfields at the Sports Complex. Taking place in the
evening, children are encouraged to bring their flashlights. A fireworks
display will be held following the egg hunt.


The PAWesome Easter Egg Hunt, for your dogs, will take place earlier in the day
on April 5 near the dog park at Veterans Memorial Park.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712763926956.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThousands of eggs and hundreds of children. The popular Flashlight Easter
Egg Hunt, hosted by the Great Bend Recreation Commission, returns this spring
at the Great Bend Sports Complex. Great Bend Rec Marketing Director Megan
Hammeke said the date this year for the hunt is April 5. "We did have to move it up a week this year," said Hammeke. "Normally, we do it the weekend before Easter, but the weekend before Easter this year is prom. So we're two weeks before Easter this year."Last year there were more than 360 children, between the ages of three and 12,
searching for eggs on the ballfields at the Sports Complex. Taking place in the
evening, children are encouraged to bring their flashlights. A fireworks
display will be held following the egg hunt.
The PAWesome Easter Egg Hunt, for your dogs, will take place earlier in the day
on April 5 near the dog park at Veterans Memorial Park.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Rec’s flashlight egg hunt lands on April 5

On Sunday, February 2, 4-H members across Barton County gathered to showcase their Communication Skills at 4-H Club Day!

Communication skills are necessary for everyone in every job. Our littlest 4-H members start out by presenting “Show and Share” with the goal of being able to look the judge in the eye and talk.

As they get a little older, they have the opportunity to develop and present Demonstrations which show how to do something or Illustrated Talks which tells how something is done. These involve preparing materials, an outline, and visual aids. As timed events, it is also important to learn to manage your time well.

Older 4-H members expand their presentation skills by adding public speaking and extemporaneous speaking to the demonstrations and illustrated talk options. Public speaking is excellent practice for a lifetime of presentations whether that is used at work, on a board, or with a civic organization. Extemporaneous speaking is probably one of the toughest categories! Participants have ten minutes to draw from a selection of topics, prepare their thoughts, and record their main points on a single notecard. It challenges youth to quickly organize their thoughts and confidently present their topic. Another event for our older 4-H members is Application, Resume, and Interview. In this very real-world practice, participants turn in an application for one of 4 age-appropriate jobs with their resume and cover letter. The judge has the opportunity to review these documents prior to Club Day and then interviews the candidate as part of the event. The youth receive feedback on all aspects of their application and interview.

In addition to speaking opportunities, many clubs will work together to present a club skit. Teamwork, organization, and planning are all important skills as the club coordinates to showcase their members in a fun and inventive way.

One of the most challenging club events is the model meeting. 4-H Clubs learn and practice parliamentary procedure at each meeting and the model meeting event gives them a place to show what they know! They must provide an agenda to the judge prior to the meeting and secretary minutes immediately following.

There are requirements as to the number of motions that must be included. This is a great life skill for anyone who will sit on a board or committee!

Also included in 4-H Club Day is the opportunity for 4-H members to present music, dance, and talent numbers.

In all cases, these are performed before a judge who provides feedback in addition to a ribbon placing. This consultative judging is a regular part of 4-H learning.

Cottonwood-Barton 4-H participates in a regional contest so qualifiers from most categories are eligible to present at the next level with the best of seven other counties. Regional Club Day will occur on March 14 in Great Bend.

Those who receive top placings at County 4-H Club Day also have the opportunity to present their Project Talk, Demonstration or Illustrated Talk, or Reading at the Kansas State Fair. For 2025, Public Speaking has been added with a set topic for all participants. If you ever walk through the 4-H Centennial Hall building at State Fair, you may have seen youth from across the state presenting on one of two stages.

Practicing the life skills of communication, organization, and planning are really the WHY behind 4-H Club Day! Poise, confidence, and self-assurance grow every time a presentation is given. Be on the lookout for these young leaders and their growing communication skills!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>On Sunday, February 2, 4-H members across Barton County gathered to showcase their Communication Skills at 4-H Club Day!Communication skills are necessary for everyone in every job. Our littlest 4-H members start out by presenting “Show and Share” with the goal of being able to look the judge in the eye and talk.As they get a little older, they have the opportunity to develop and present Demonstrations which show how to do something or Illustrated Talks which tells how something is done. These involve preparing materials, an outline, and visual aids. As timed events, it is also important to learn to manage your time well.Older 4-H members expand their presentation skills by adding public speaking and extemporaneous speaking to the demonstrations and illustrated talk options. Public speaking is excellent practice for a lifetime of presentations whether that is used at work, on a board, or with a civic organization. Extemporaneous speaking is probably one of the toughest categories! Participants have ten minutes to draw from a selection of topics, prepare their thoughts, and record their main points on a single notecard. It challenges youth to quickly organize their thoughts and confidently present their topic. Another event for our older 4-H members is Application, Resume, and Interview. In this very real-world practice, participants turn in an application for one of 4 age-appropriate jobs with their resume and cover letter. The judge has the opportunity to review these documents prior to Club Day and then interviews the candidate as part of the event. The youth receive feedback on all aspects of their application and interview.In addition to speaking opportunities, many clubs will work together to present a club skit. Teamwork, organization, and planning are all important skills as the club coordinates to showcase their members in a fun and inventive way.One of the most challenging club events is the model meeting. 4-H Clubs learn and practice parliamentary procedure at each meeting and the model meeting event gives them a place to show what they know! They must provide an agenda to the judge prior to the meeting and secretary minutes immediately following.There are requirements as to the number of motions that must be included. This is a great life skill for anyone who will sit on a board or committee!Also included in 4-H Club Day is the opportunity for 4-H members to present music, dance, and talent numbers.In all cases, these are performed before a judge who provides feedback in addition to a ribbon placing. This consultative judging is a regular part of 4-H learning.Cottonwood-Barton 4-H participates in a regional contest so qualifiers from most categories are eligible to present at the next level with the best of seven other counties. Regional Club Day will occur on March 14 in Great Bend.Those who receive top placings at County 4-H Club Day also have the opportunity to present their Project Talk, Demonstration or Illustrated Talk, or Reading at the Kansas State Fair. For 2025, Public Speaking has been added with a set topic for all participants. If you ever walk through the 4-H Centennial Hall building at State Fair, you may have seen youth from across the state presenting on one of two stages.Practicing the life skills of communication, organization, and planning are really the WHY behind 4-H Club Day! Poise, confidence, and self-assurance grow every time a presentation is given. Be on the lookout for these young leaders and their growing communication skills!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

BERAN: 4-H Club Day update

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The timing is unfortunate. Newly-elected county officials were sworn into office on Jan. 13, less than two months ahead of the deadline to recertify passports. Even though Barton County Register of Deeds Susan Williams, and her new deputy, Bailey Rankin, have previous experience in the office, both are currently unable to process passports.

"Because both Bailey and I are relatively new, or considered new, to the office, we had to first apply for a facility manager change," Williams said. "We're waiting for the passport agency to process that. Once that is completed, then we both have to be added as passport acceptance agents and take online training."

Williams said the situation is compounded by changes being made at the passport agency. With the recertification deadline looming on March 1, she is hopeful her office will have the greenlight to begin processing those soon.

"Everybody is submitting their paperwork," said Williams. "I know there are other new  register of deeds trying to get the managers changed and be added as passport managers. It's kind of a hurry-up-and-wait situation for us."

Until the deeds office is able to process passports, Williams advises the public to use the United States Postal Service for processing. Even when services return, she said expect to wait times on passports are still around eight weeks. Those needing a passport sooner can use an expedited process that carries additional fees.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627262146028.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe timing is unfortunate. Newly-elected county officials were sworn into office on Jan. 13, less than two months ahead of the deadline to recertify passports. Even though Barton County Register of Deeds Susan Williams, and her new deputy, Bailey Rankin, have previous experience in the office, both are currently unable to process passports."Because both Bailey and I are relatively new, or considered new, to the office, we had to first apply for a facility manager change," Williams said. "We're waiting for the passport agency to process that. Once that is completed, then we both have to be added as passport acceptance agents and take online training."Williams said the situation is compounded by changes being made at the passport agency. With the recertification deadline looming on March 1, she is hopeful her office will have the greenlight to begin processing those soon."Everybody is submitting their paperwork," said Williams. "I know there are other new register of deeds trying to get the managers changed and be added as passport managers. It's kind of a hurry-up-and-wait situation for us."Until the deeds office is able to process passports, Williams advises the public to use the United States Postal Service for processing. Even when services return, she said expect to wait times on passports are still around eight weeks. Those needing a passport sooner can use an expedited process that carries additional fees.

Passport services on pause at Barton Co. Register of Deeds Office

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (2/13)

At 11:49 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1572 NE
80 Avenue in Claflin.

Interference with Law Enforcement Officer

At 5:03 p.m. interference with LEO was reported at 268 W.
Broadway in Hoisington.

At 5:17 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56
Highway &amp; SE 160 Avenue in Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (2/13)

At 12:36 a.m. a noise complaint was reported at 1808 Willow.

At 3:01 a.m. a structure fire was reported at 705 10th
Street.

At 7:34 a.m. a dog at large was reported at 10th
&amp; Frey.

At 12:23 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

At 2:04 p.m. a report of Ryan Lang at the residence and
wanting him to leave was made at 6030 Rosewood. Officers contacted Lang outside
the residence and advised him not to return.

At 5:40 p.m. a theft was reported at 1110 Morphy.

At 8:10 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 103 Elm
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (2/13)Convulsions / SeizuresAt 11:49 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1572 NE
80 Avenue in Claflin.Interference with Law Enforcement OfficerAt 5:03 p.m. interference with LEO was reported at 268 W.
Broadway in Hoisington.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:17 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56
Highway &amp; SE 160 Avenue in Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (2/13)Noise ComplaintAt 12:36 a.m. a noise complaint was reported at 1808 Willow.Structure FireAt 3:01 a.m. a structure fire was reported at 705 10th
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 7:34 a.m. a dog at large was reported at 10th
&amp; Frey.Non-Injury AccidentAt 12:23 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.Trespassing / CriminalAt 2:04 p.m. a report of Ryan Lang at the residence and
wanting him to leave was made at 6030 Rosewood. Officers contacted Lang outside
the residence and advised him not to return.TheftAt 5:40 p.m. a theft was reported at 1110 Morphy.Structure FireAt 8:10 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 103 Elm
Street.

Cop Shop (2/13)

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the most recent obituaries and service times from Eagle Media's funeral home partners.

﻿Funeral homes and families can send notices to <a href="mailto:obitsgb@eagleradio.net">obitsgb@eagleradio.net</a>.

Obituary listings are a paid service. Contact Eagle Media for more details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598925080953.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the most recent obituaries and service times from Eagle Media's funeral home partners.﻿Funeral homes and families can send notices to <a href="mailto:obitsgb@eagleradio.net">obitsgb@eagleradio.net</a>.Obituary listings are a paid service. Contact Eagle Media for more details.

Recent obituaries 

2/13 BOOKED: Michael E. Krom on five Barton County District Court warrants for Contempt of Court, no bond set; and on Barton County District Court warrants for Violation of Protection Order and Battery, total bond set at $3,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Alexis Hernandez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $1,242.50 cash only; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $887.50 cash only.

BOOKED: Lee M. Pace on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $20,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Ismael Dominguez III on Barton County District Court warrant, by order of the court, must report to court services.

RELEASED: Jamie L. Moore on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, on $10,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Gary W. Summer, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Chad D. Wornkey on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>2/13 BOOKED: Michael E. Krom on five Barton County District Court warrants for Contempt of Court, no bond set; and on Barton County District Court warrants for Violation of Protection Order and Battery, total bond set at $3,500 C/S.BOOKED: Alexis Hernandez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $1,242.50 cash only; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $887.50 cash only.BOOKED: Lee M. Pace on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $20,000 C/S.RELEASED: Ismael Dominguez III on Barton County District Court warrant, by order of the court, must report to court services.RELEASED: Jamie L. Moore on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, on $10,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Gary W. Summer, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Chad D. Wornkey on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (2/13)

Some baseline standards for grade promotion. A Park Elementary School teacher went before the USD 428 Board of Education Monday night to address concerns about what teachers in the district are going through and how that impacts those teachers.

"We need something because this is leading to teacher burnout," she said. "I will be honest. In the past two years, this has become a bigger problem for me and whether I want to continue teaching in a district where my kids will flat out tell me, in the past two years, 'I don't have to. I will go on anyway. I will do it if you give me a pizza party. If you do this.'"

An agenda item for later in Monday's meeting included an explanation of  the Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS) system used by Great Bend and many other districts around the state to chart student progress by grouping students into one of three tiers based on academic progress. The teacher said 52 percent of her students were two grades behind, or tier three, in words-per-minute reading. That figure climbed to 57 percent for reading comprehension and was 48 percent in math. Board Member Sara Williams agreed there is an issue.

"I think what she said is absolutely essential," Williams said. "As a board member, it disturbs me to have 'mastery' in our student exit outcomes and not be expecting that. We say they're going to graduate with mastery but where is that expectation?"

USD 428 has used MTSS for just over a decade and administrators maintain the program has been effective. JoAnn Blevins, director of teaching and learning for USD 428, said a better picture of progress is painted in the details.

"What happens sometimes when we look at the data is we don't always get to see and celebrate that growth because that number just says, 'You're not performing,'" she said. "But when you dig deeper into that individual student's data or classroom, we can show tremendous growth. When we look at our system's data over time, we can see kids catching up. By the time they get to middle school, those numbers significantly increase."

Both Blevins and Assistant Superintendent John Popp agreed that holding back, or retaining, a student is one of the worst things a district can do. Blevins corresponded with author and Professor of Education at the University of Melbourne, Australia.

"His email to me was, 'If you retain, which no district should, you do it only with great pangs of guilt,'" she said. "The research is pretty clear it has a strong negative impact on kids socially, emotionally, and academically. Any gains you might have short-term academically wear off. They don't have it for the long term."

Blevins said USD 428 also has certain socioeconomic traits that contribute to overall student success.

"When you have 65-70 percent of your students who are coming poverty, who are coming from sometimes generational poverty, that impacts that background knowledge, that impacts the ability to overcome some of those things," she said.

Popp said the district has held back kids, typically kindergartners, and the results have rarely been positive.

"That next year, they're a behavior issue," he said. "They're taking the same content again and they don't want to be there. They're away from their peers. It's detrimental for them. We've seen it for years and years."

Williams held firm that something must be done to benefit all members of the community.

"They have full capabilities of doing it but they have no motivation for doing it," she said of some students. "It's not a development thing, it's a motivational thing. When we're not evaluating them with high expectations that we say we hold our kids to - there has to be a balance. There needs to be some sort of motivation for the sake of our teachers, for the sake of our students, for the sake of who we are as a school and who we say we are in providing a good education for our kids."

Blevins said even threatening to hold back a student can cause breakdowns in the teacher-parent-student relationship. Board Member Randy Wetzel said because Great Bend High School students need a certain number of credits to graduate, the idea of retention is always there. Even that has not proven effective in some cases.

"It doesn't matter to some kids," he said. "It doesn't motivate them, so you have to find what motivates that kid with individual work and individual plans, whatever it takes. Just threatening them, they'll dig a deeper hole. I saw it happen year after year after year."

Wetzel said some students just require extra work. Programs like MTSS are designed to provide intervention to students not meeting expectations.

"What I found in all my years is, if you sit down a kid and talk to them and reason with them, sooner or later, you're going to get there," Wetzel said. "It might be April of their senior year, but sooner or later, you're going to get to them. You have to find what motivates them. Holding a threat over their head doesn't get it done."

All said with comments from the teacher and board members, Monday's discussion approached one hour. Williams said it is important for teachers to know they are being heard.

"She's talking about burnout and the MTSS resources are not there because of illness or whatever is happening in the buildings," she said. "Her passion about the frustrations and expectations on teachers, the lack of faculty to present all the resources we are trying to have available to them but ultimately are not available because we don't have enough people to implement them, we need to make sure teachers like her are feeling heard. She presents something and we say we will take this into consideration, we will do the next thing with it, we need to make sure it doesn't just stop here with this discussion but we are following up and doing something for her sake so she's feeling supported and heard. It's not just her. She's representing a group of teachers."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739479961834.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSome baseline standards for grade promotion. A Park Elementary School teacher went before the USD 428 Board of Education Monday night to address concerns about what teachers in the district are going through and how that impacts those teachers."We need something because this is leading to teacher burnout," she said. "I will be honest. In the past two years, this has become a bigger problem for me and whether I want to continue teaching in a district where my kids will flat out tell me, in the past two years, 'I don't have to. I will go on anyway. I will do it if you give me a pizza party. If you do this.'"An agenda item for later in Monday's meeting included an explanation of the Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS) system used by Great Bend and many other districts around the state to chart student progress by grouping students into one of three tiers based on academic progress. The teacher said 52 percent of her students were two grades behind, or tier three, in words-per-minute reading. That figure climbed to 57 percent for reading comprehension and was 48 percent in math. Board Member Sara Williams agreed there is an issue."I think what she said is absolutely essential," Williams said. "As a board member, it disturbs me to have 'mastery' in our student exit outcomes and not be expecting that. We say they're going to graduate with mastery but where is that expectation?"USD 428 has used MTSS for just over a decade and administrators maintain the program has been effective. JoAnn Blevins, director of teaching and learning for USD 428, said a better picture of progress is painted in the details."What happens sometimes when we look at the data is we don't always get to see and celebrate that growth because that number just says, 'You're not performing,'" she said. "But when you dig deeper into that individual student's data or classroom, we can show tremendous growth. When we look at our system's data over time, we can see kids catching up. By the time they get to middle school, those numbers significantly increase."Both Blevins and Assistant Superintendent John Popp agreed that holding back, or retaining, a student is one of the worst things a district can do. Blevins corresponded with author and Professor of Education at the University of Melbourne, Australia."His email to me was, 'If you retain, which no district should, you do it only with great pangs of guilt,'" she said. "The research is pretty clear it has a strong negative impact on kids socially, emotionally, and academically. Any gains you might have short-term academically wear off. They don't have it for the long term."Blevins said USD 428 also has certain socioeconomic traits that contribute to overall student success."When you have 65-70 percent of your students who are coming poverty, who are coming from sometimes generational poverty, that impacts that background knowledge, that impacts the ability to overcome some of those things," she said.Popp said the district has held back kids, typically kindergartners, and the results have rarely been positive."That next year, they're a behavior issue," he said. "They're taking the same content again and they don't want to be there. They're away from their peers. It's detrimental for them. We've seen it for years and years."Williams held firm that something must be done to benefit all members of the community."They have full capabilities of doing it but they have no motivation for doing it," she said of some students. "It's not a development thing, it's a motivational thing. When we're not evaluating them with high expectations that we say we hold our kids to - there has to be a balance. There needs to be some sort of motivation for the sake of our teachers, for the sake of our students, for the sake of who we are as a school and who we say we are in providing a good education for our kids."Blevins said even threatening to hold back a student can cause breakdowns in the teacher-parent-student relationship. Board Member Randy Wetzel said because Great Bend High School students need a certain number of credits to graduate, the idea of retention is always there. Even that has not proven effective in some cases."It doesn't matter to some kids," he said. "It doesn't motivate them, so you have to find what motivates that kid with individual work and individual plans, whatever it takes. Just threatening them, they'll dig a deeper hole. I saw it happen year after year after year."Wetzel said some students just require extra work. Programs like MTSS are designed to provide intervention to students not meeting expectations."What I found in all my years is, if you sit down a kid and talk to them and reason with them, sooner or later, you're going to get there," Wetzel said. "It might be April of their senior year, but sooner or later, you're going to get to them. You have to find what motivates them. Holding a threat over their head doesn't get it done."All said with comments from the teacher and board members, Monday's discussion approached one hour. Williams said it is important for teachers to know they are being heard."She's talking about burnout and the MTSS resources are not there because of illness or whatever is happening in the buildings," she said. "Her passion about the frustrations and expectations on teachers, the lack of faculty to present all the resources we are trying to have available to them but ultimately are not available because we don't have enough people to implement them, we need to make sure teachers like her are feeling heard. She presents something and we say we will take this into consideration, we will do the next thing with it, we need to make sure it doesn't just stop here with this discussion but we are following up and doing something for her sake so she's feeling supported and heard. It's not just her. She's representing a group of teachers."

Elementary teacher, admins, BOE discuss student expectations in GB schools

Barton Community College athletic department’s annual support of Camp
Hope was displayed at Wednesday’s basketball games for “Pink Out Night.” Assistant
Athletic Director Heather Panning said in an effort to raise funds for the
nearby youth camp, Barton sold commemorative t-shirts with all the proceeds
going to Camp Hope. 


"When I started working here, it was something the college did," said Panning. "The athletic department took it over and tried to make it the biggest and best that we could. Every year we try to sell these shirts. It seems like more and more people are getting involved."

Held every summer at the college's Camp Aldrich near Claflin, the week-long camp
provides a free, traditional summer camp experience for ages 4-17 who have, or
have had cancer. The mission of Camp Hope is to provide a normal, active and
safe camp experience where children can celebrate life beyond the diagnosis of
cancer.


"It's really cool to see how many people come and support this cause," said Panning. "With the donations we receive, there is a lot that goes into this. It's special to see this all come together in one night."

Barton sold approximately 280 “Pink Out Night” shirts and presented Camp Hope
representatives a check worth $4,000 at Wednesday’s games.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739477194841.jpeg" alt="The Barton Community College athletic department presented Camp Hope officials a $4,000 check at "Pink Out Night" on Feb. 12, 2025." />
 <figcaption>The Barton Community College athletic department presented Camp Hope officials a $4,000 check at "Pink Out Night" on Feb. 12, 2025.</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostBarton Community College athletic department’s annual support of Camp
Hope was displayed at Wednesday’s basketball games for “Pink Out Night.” Assistant
Athletic Director Heather Panning said in an effort to raise funds for the
nearby youth camp, Barton sold commemorative t-shirts with all the proceeds
going to Camp Hope. 
"When I started working here, it was something the college did," said Panning. "The athletic department took it over and tried to make it the biggest and best that we could. Every year we try to sell these shirts. It seems like more and more people are getting involved."Held every summer at the college's Camp Aldrich near Claflin, the week-long camp
provides a free, traditional summer camp experience for ages 4-17 who have, or
have had cancer. The mission of Camp Hope is to provide a normal, active and
safe camp experience where children can celebrate life beyond the diagnosis of
cancer.
"It's really cool to see how many people come and support this cause," said Panning. "With the donations we receive, there is a lot that goes into this. It's special to see this all come together in one night."Barton sold approximately 280 “Pink Out Night” shirts and presented Camp Hope
representatives a check worth $4,000 at Wednesday’s games.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Athletics presents $4,000 check to Camp Hope

Today A slight chance of snow and sleet between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Cloudy through mid-morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 47. Windy, with a south wind 22 to 27 mph increasing to 28 to 33 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 48 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Tonight A chance of rain before 3 a.m., then a chance of snow between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m., then a chance of snow, freezing rain, and sleet after 5 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph becoming southeast 10 to 15 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Saturday A chance of snow, freezing rain, and sleet before 9 a.m., then a chance of freezing rain and sleet between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m., then a chance of snow after 10 a.m. Cloudy, with a high near 29. Blustery, with a north wind 21 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 10. Wind chill values as low as -7. Blustery, with a north northwest wind 17 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 25. North-northwest wind 6 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 12.

Washington's Birthday Partly sunny, with a high near 28.

Monday Night Snow likely, mainly after midnight. Cloudy, with a low around 0. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Tuesday Snow likely, mainly before noon. Cloudy and cold, with a high near 6. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of snow before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around -8.

Wednesday Partly sunny and cold, with a high near 10.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around -5.

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 17.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A slight chance of snow and sleet between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Cloudy through mid-morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 47. Windy, with a south wind 22 to 27 mph increasing to 28 to 33 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 48 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Tonight A chance of rain before 3 a.m., then a chance of snow between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m., then a chance of snow, freezing rain, and sleet after 5 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph becoming southeast 10 to 15 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.Saturday A chance of snow, freezing rain, and sleet before 9 a.m., then a chance of freezing rain and sleet between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m., then a chance of snow after 10 a.m. Cloudy, with a high near 29. Blustery, with a north wind 21 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 10. Wind chill values as low as -7. Blustery, with a north northwest wind 17 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 25. North-northwest wind 6 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 12.Washington's Birthday Partly sunny, with a high near 28.Monday Night Snow likely, mainly after midnight. Cloudy, with a low around 0. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Tuesday Snow likely, mainly before noon. Cloudy and cold, with a high near 6. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of snow before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around -8.Wednesday Partly sunny and cold, with a high near 10.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around -5.Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 17.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Media's Cole Reif and Great Bend Municipal Airport Manager Martin Miller that aired Feb. 12, 2025.

The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Media's Cole Reif and Great Bend Municipal Airport Manager Martin Miller that aired Feb. 12, 2025.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Airport Manager Martin Miller" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=b4eku-17fbd48-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Airport Manager Martin Miller

Hoisington High School's 2025 winter homecoming court: Kamden Tarlton, Laka Ferguson, Lane French, Clair Crutcher, Peyton Kinman, Ellie Crawford, Rhen Galla, Gabby Reif, Landon Beaver, and Presley Brungardt. 

The crowning ceremony will take place between the varsity basketball games Friday, Feb. 14 against Nickerson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739474939166.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hoisington High School's 2025 winter homecoming court: Kamden Tarlton, Laka Ferguson, Lane French, Clair Crutcher, Peyton Kinman, Ellie Crawford, Rhen Galla, Gabby Reif, Landon Beaver, and Presley Brungardt. The crowning ceremony will take place between the varsity basketball games Friday, Feb. 14 against Nickerson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hoisington High School 2025 homecoming court

As part of the Great Bend Fire Department’s vehicle replacement plan,
the current ladder truck is scheduled to be replaced in 2025. The city
identified in 2022 that at the rate they were saving money for the truck’s
replacement, the department would not have enough money in reserve to replace the
truck. At that time, two more years were added to the project date, giving the department
until 2027.


In visiting with other fire truck dealers, Great Bend identified at the current
rate of inflation they would not have enough money saved to complete the purchase
in 2027. It was also noted that if the city waits until 2027, it could be up to
48 months, year 2031, before the truck would be delivered.


The Great Bend Fire Department apparatus committee started researching options
at the end of last year. Two manufacturers have slots reserved in their build
schedules for stock or demo trucks. If the purchase is approved, the city could
make changes to the specifications so the truck would better meet their needs. 
By going this route, the city would take delivery of the ladder truck in late
2026 and save the city two years of inflation, roughly 7% to 10% annually. 

Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith will present the option to the Great Bend City Council at the meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 18 to approve the bid from Hays Fire Equipment for $1,590,023. The council meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705073344644.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostAs part of the Great Bend Fire Department’s vehicle replacement plan,
the current ladder truck is scheduled to be replaced in 2025. The city
identified in 2022 that at the rate they were saving money for the truck’s
replacement, the department would not have enough money in reserve to replace the
truck. At that time, two more years were added to the project date, giving the department
until 2027.
In visiting with other fire truck dealers, Great Bend identified at the current
rate of inflation they would not have enough money saved to complete the purchase
in 2027. It was also noted that if the city waits until 2027, it could be up to
48 months, year 2031, before the truck would be delivered.
The Great Bend Fire Department apparatus committee started researching options
at the end of last year. Two manufacturers have slots reserved in their build
schedules for stock or demo trucks. If the purchase is approved, the city could
make changes to the specifications so the truck would better meet their needs. 
By going this route, the city would take delivery of the ladder truck in late
2026 and save the city two years of inflation, roughly 7% to 10% annually. Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith will present the option to the Great Bend City Council at the meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 18 to approve the bid from Hays Fire Equipment for $1,590,023. The council meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Fire seeking approval for $1.59 million ladder truck

The Barton County Commission has utilized resources via the Kansas Natural Resource Coalition in recent months, especially as it pertains to the National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (NIETC) that was proposed to pass through the county. Tuesday morning, County Administrator Matt Patzner appeared before the board of commissioners to renew membership in the group.

"The Kansas Natural Resource Coalition serves as a conduit between local, state, and federal governments to promote balanced, necessary, and effective administrative policy-making initiatives that materially affect the natural or human systems governed by individual member counties," Patzner said.

Barton County will once again pay $5,000 for its annual membership. The exact number of counties in KNRC is not published but Commission Chair Tricia Schlessiger said Barton County said the organization of counties throughout the state serves a local purpose.

"I personally feel this is an important organization for us to be a part of," she said. "They've been involved actively in the NIETC corridor and also the Quivira water issues. Those are two things that affect our county directly."

Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson reminded other commissioners that the KNRC helped set up the tri-county meeting with Pawnee and Russell counties last October, which was particularly rare in that all three county commission boards took action from the meeting regarding the proposed NIETC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739289806003.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Commission has utilized resources via the Kansas Natural Resource Coalition in recent months, especially as it pertains to the National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (NIETC) that was proposed to pass through the county. Tuesday morning, County Administrator Matt Patzner appeared before the board of commissioners to renew membership in the group."The Kansas Natural Resource Coalition serves as a conduit between local, state, and federal governments to promote balanced, necessary, and effective administrative policy-making initiatives that materially affect the natural or human systems governed by individual member counties," Patzner said.Barton County will once again pay $5,000 for its annual membership. The exact number of counties in KNRC is not published but Commission Chair Tricia Schlessiger said Barton County said the organization of counties throughout the state serves a local purpose."I personally feel this is an important organization for us to be a part of," she said. "They've been involved actively in the NIETC corridor and also the Quivira water issues. Those are two things that affect our county directly."Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson reminded other commissioners that the KNRC helped set up the tri-county meeting with Pawnee and Russell counties last October, which was particularly rare in that all three county commission boards took action from the meeting regarding the proposed NIETC.

Barton Co. renews membership with Kansas Natural Resources Coalition

When evaluating how baseball and softball leagues went last year, Great
Bend Recreation Commission Sports Director Shane Sandberg said the number one
complaint for 3rd and 4th grade softball and baseball was
the amount of walks each game. 

That grade level switches to a format with the
children pitching. 


"I went back and looked through box scores," said Sandberg. "There were games where there were 20-plus walks and walking in five runs per inning. Nobody is learning how to hit like that. Nobody is learning how to run the bases and the defense isn't getting to play any defense."

Sandberg said this age group is one of the hardest to coach because you are teaching
the children how to pitch. The Rec will introduce a kid-pitch and parent-pitch
hybrid style for 3rd and 4th grade ball this summer.


"We'll evaluate if the kid is sitting there watching eight pitches go by, we're going to have to make an adjustment on the fly," said Sandberg. "We're assuming in one or two pitches they're going to get something to swing at."

If there is a walk, a parent or coach from the hitting team will come out to
throw to the children where the batter will get one swing. If there is a foul
ball, the batter will get another pitch from the adult.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen evaluating how baseball and softball leagues went last year, Great
Bend Recreation Commission Sports Director Shane Sandberg said the number one
complaint for 3rd and 4th grade softball and baseball was
the amount of walks each game. That grade level switches to a format with the
children pitching. 
"I went back and looked through box scores," said Sandberg. "There were games where there were 20-plus walks and walking in five runs per inning. Nobody is learning how to hit like that. Nobody is learning how to run the bases and the defense isn't getting to play any defense."Sandberg said this age group is one of the hardest to coach because you are teaching
the children how to pitch. The Rec will introduce a kid-pitch and parent-pitch
hybrid style for 3rd and 4th grade ball this summer.
"We'll evaluate if the kid is sitting there watching eight pitches go by, we're going to have to make an adjustment on the fly," said Sandberg. "We're assuming in one or two pitches they're going to get something to swing at."If there is a walk, a parent or coach from the hitting team will come out to
throw to the children where the batter will get one swing. If there is a foul
ball, the batter will get another pitch from the adult.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Rec makes switch to limit walks for 3rd/4th grade baseball

Dr. Cassandra Olds, Professor of Entomology at Kansas State University is presenting a program on insect control for livestock in March. The program will be held at the Ellis County Extension office at 601 Main St in Hays on Tuesday, March 4. The program will start at 4 p.m. with light refreshments and run about an hour.

Dr. Olds is an expert in control of common livestock pests including flies, and ticks among others.

Topics covered during the program include:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Determining which flies your livestock have a problem with 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Why flies develop resistance to insecticides 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; What can you do to slow the spread of resistance within fly populations 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Developing an integrated pest management program

RSVP is appreciated, but not necessary for the refreshments. Please email or call Alicia Boor at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-9430 to RSVP. We hope to see you there.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Cassandra Olds, Professor of Entomology at Kansas State University is presenting a program on insect control for livestock in March. The program will be held at the Ellis County Extension office at 601 Main St in Hays on Tuesday, March 4. The program will start at 4 p.m. with light refreshments and run about an hour.Dr. Olds is an expert in control of common livestock pests including flies, and ticks among others.Topics covered during the program include:1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Determining which flies your livestock have a problem with 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Why flies develop resistance to insecticides 3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; What can you do to slow the spread of resistance within fly populations 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Developing an integrated pest management programRSVP is appreciated, but not necessary for the refreshments. Please email or call Alicia Boor at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-9430 to RSVP. We hope to see you there.

BOOR: Extension hosting livestock insect management meeting

Staff shortages in the educational world are one thing. Then flu season hits. Having an adequate number of substitute teachers on deck is important to fill those absences in the classroom. During Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Assistant Superintendent John Popp said the Great Bend district barely got by on Monday.

"On average, we can fill 28-30 substitute positions a day," he said. "If we get over that many absences, we're having to fill internally. There are days when we pull in 35 substitutes. Today, we had just over 40 absences and we had 11 uncovered."

The board discussed a new modified emergency substitute policy. Whereas emergency substitutes need 60 semester credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university to work, modified emergency substitutes need only a high school diploma and a few other considerations. Superintendent Khris Thexton said the district already utilizes 10 substitutes that meet this standard.

"Of those 10, seven of them are teacher's assistants and paras," he said. "They have qualified under this modified substitute license so they can fill in and get the pay of a substitute for that day."

All substitute applicants must also pass a fingerprint background check that carries a $50 fee and pay a $60 application processing fee. Modified emergency substitutes must also complete Greenbush's Emergency Substitute Training Modules. The modified license is nontransferable and limited to the local school district on the license. An educator can apply for multiple districts if each district submits an expanded emergency substitute qualification form.

For more information about the modified emergency substitute requirements, contact the USD 428 office at (620) 793-1500.

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostStaff shortages in the educational world are one thing. Then flu season hits. Having an adequate number of substitute teachers on deck is important to fill those absences in the classroom. During Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Assistant Superintendent John Popp said the Great Bend district barely got by on Monday."On average, we can fill 28-30 substitute positions a day," he said. "If we get over that many absences, we're having to fill internally. There are days when we pull in 35 substitutes. Today, we had just over 40 absences and we had 11 uncovered."The board discussed a new modified emergency substitute policy. Whereas emergency substitutes need 60 semester credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university to work, modified emergency substitutes need only a high school diploma and a few other considerations. Superintendent Khris Thexton said the district already utilizes 10 substitutes that meet this standard."Of those 10, seven of them are teacher's assistants and paras," he said. "They have qualified under this modified substitute license so they can fill in and get the pay of a substitute for that day."All substitute applicants must also pass a fingerprint background check that carries a $50 fee and pay a $60 application processing fee. Modified emergency substitutes must also complete Greenbush's Emergency Substitute Training Modules. The modified license is nontransferable and limited to the local school district on the license. An educator can apply for multiple districts if each district submits an expanded emergency substitute qualification form.For more information about the modified emergency substitute requirements, contact the USD 428 office at (620) 793-1500.

USD 428 searching for modified emergency subs for GB schools

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (2/12)

At 4:13 p.m. a fraud case was reported at 286 N. Washington
Avenue.

Great Bend Police Department
incident log (2/12)

At 9:32 a.m. an accident was reported at 800 Washington.

At 12:29 p.m. a report of wanting Travis Ramos removed from the
residence was made at 1205 Jackson. Ramos left without incident.

At 12:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 3502 10th
Street.

At 4:03 p.m. an accident was reported at 1200 Kansas Avenue.

At 5:23 p.m. a vehicle running a stop sign in the area was
reported at 23rd &amp; Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (2/12)FraudAt 4:13 p.m. a fraud case was reported at 286 N. Washington
Avenue.Great Bend Police Department
incident log (2/12)Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:32 a.m. an accident was reported at 800 Washington.Remove SubjectAt 12:29 p.m. a report of wanting Travis Ramos removed from the
residence was made at 1205 Jackson. Ramos left without incident.Non-Injury AccidentAt 12:58 p.m. an accident was reported at 3502 10th
Street.At 4:03 p.m. an accident was reported at 1200 Kansas Avenue.Driving / Driver Complaint At 5:23 p.m. a vehicle running a stop sign in the area was
reported at 23rd &amp; Washington.

Cop Shop (2/12)

On Tuesday, Feb. 11 at approximately 3:59 p.m., a detective from the Great Bend Police Department observed a white passenger vehicle commit a traffic violation at the intersection of 21st Street and Lincoln Street.  The detective conducted a traffic stop, identifying the driver to be Brittney Collins, age 36. 

During the course of the stop, the driver consented to a search of her vehicle.  During the search, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located. 

Collins was transported to the Barton County Jail.  When entry was made inside of the facility, additional methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located upon Collins. She was booked for the charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp, introduction of contraband and traffic charges, in lieu of bond. 

Anyone with any information regarding this or any other crime are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120, fBarton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739457786271.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, Feb. 11 at approximately 3:59 p.m., a detective from the Great Bend Police Department observed a white passenger vehicle commit a traffic violation at the intersection of 21st Street and Lincoln Street. The detective conducted a traffic stop, identifying the driver to be Brittney Collins, age 36. During the course of the stop, the driver consented to a search of her vehicle. During the search, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located. Collins was transported to the Barton County Jail. When entry was made inside of the facility, additional methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located upon Collins. She was booked for the charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp, introduction of contraband and traffic charges, in lieu of bond. This case is still under investigation. Anyone with any information regarding this or any other crime are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120, fBarton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Woman arrested in Great Bend for drugs, introduction of contraband

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BOOKED: Jennifer A. Hernandez on Hoisington Municipal Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Brittney D. Collins on Barton County District Court case for Felony Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp, Improper Signaling, and No Proof of Insurance, bond set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Cory A. Little on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

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 </figure>2/12BOOKED: Jennifer A. Hernandez on Hoisington Municipal Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Brittney D. Collins on Barton County District Court case for Felony Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp, Improper Signaling, and No Proof of Insurance, bond set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: Cory A. Little on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

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