By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Last August, Mike Perry won a 2023 Nitro Yellow Chevy Trailblazer to put an exclamation point on Eagle Radio's most recent car giveaway. Another contest is now underway with Trax to the Max presented by Ehler Chevrolet, Sutherlands, Farmers Bank &amp; Trust, and Eldridge Fencing. Eagle Radio's Director of Promotions Becca Tudor said one instant finalist has already been selected for the promotion.

"It is a 2024 Cayenne Orange Chevy Traxx, and we're giving it away Aug. 9," she said. "We're going to have a lot of instant finalist days this summer where people can become an instant finalist or there are daily registration locations."

Watch for the Nex-Tech Wireless Mobile Cruiser at live promotions throughout the summer. An instant finalist will be selected that day from those participating sponsors. There are also several daily registration locations, and finalists will be selected from those boxes before the giveaway. The greatest odds for becoming a finalist, however, is by signing up at the instant finalist events.

"Instant finalist days, daily registration locations, you can find those at Great Bend Post.com," Tudor said. "The calendar is updated regularly so make sure you either tune in for details or check out that calendar regularly."

Instant finalist locations this week include Cornerstone Automotive, 4713 8th Street in Great Bend, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and Sutherlands in Great Bend from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713360650944.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLast August, Mike Perry won a 2023 Nitro Yellow Chevy Trailblazer to put an exclamation point on Eagle Radio's most recent car giveaway. Another contest is now underway with Trax to the Max presented by Ehler Chevrolet, Sutherlands, Farmers Bank &amp; Trust, and Eldridge Fencing. Eagle Radio's Director of Promotions Becca Tudor said one instant finalist has already been selected for the promotion."It is a 2024 Cayenne Orange Chevy Traxx, and we're giving it away Aug. 9," she said. "We're going to have a lot of instant finalist days this summer where people can become an instant finalist or there are daily registration locations."Watch for the Nex-Tech Wireless Mobile Cruiser at live promotions throughout the summer. An instant finalist will be selected that day from those participating sponsors. There are also several daily registration locations, and finalists will be selected from those boxes before the giveaway. The greatest odds for becoming a finalist, however, is by signing up at the instant finalist events."Instant finalist days, daily registration locations, you can find those at Great Bend Post.com," Tudor said. "The calendar is updated regularly so make sure you either tune in for details or check out that calendar regularly."Instant finalist locations this week include Cornerstone Automotive, 4713 8th Street in Great Bend, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and Sutherlands in Great Bend from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Eagle Radio giving away another car Aug. 9 with Trax to the Max

TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.7% in March. This is unchanged from 2.7% in February and unchanged from 2.7% in March 2023, according to a media release from KDOL.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 6,400 from February. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 5,500 over the month, while government increased by 900.

The unemployment rate in Barton County dropped from 3.3 percent in February to 3 percent in March. Pawnee County&nbsp; saw a decline from 3 to 2.8 percent. The rate is also down in most counties across the region.

Since March 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 21,800. This change is due to an increase of 16,400 private sector jobs and an increase of 5,400 government jobs.

“Preliminary estimates for March 2024 indicate strong job growth in Kansas, with total nonfarm jobs increasing 1.5% over the year, a gain of 21,800,” said labor economist, Nathan Kessler. “Private education and health services added 9,000 jobs, while government jobs increased by 5,400 since March 2023.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713536004069.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.7% in March. This is unchanged from 2.7% in February and unchanged from 2.7% in March 2023, according to a media release from KDOL.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 6,400 from February. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 5,500 over the month, while government increased by 900.The unemployment rate in Barton County dropped from 3.3 percent in February to 3 percent in March. Pawnee County&nbsp; saw a decline from 3 to 2.8 percent. The rate is also down in most counties across the region.Since March 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 21,800. This change is due to an increase of 16,400 private sector jobs and an increase of 5,400 government jobs.“Preliminary estimates for March 2024 indicate strong job growth in Kansas, with total nonfarm jobs increasing 1.5% over the year, a gain of 21,800,” said labor economist, Nathan Kessler. “Private education and health services added 9,000 jobs, while government jobs increased by 5,400 since March 2023.”

Jobless rate down in Barton County, across the region

The county of Stafford and Stafford County Economic Development have been developing a housing project for the last year and a half. The housing grant submitted to Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) in June 2023 was given award notice in October 2023 with the projected start date to build nine houses in early 2024. Eco Devo Director Ryan Russell said the time has now arrived for that project to begin with building houses in St. John and Stafford, respectively.

With Housing Opportunities Inc. as the general contractor, Stafford County Economic Development has been able to keep 85 percent of the contracts for the first two houses inside Stafford County. Five of the nine homes will be built in St. John, and the other four will be built in Stafford. Construction has already started at 303 W. Morrell in Stafford. The next home will be constructed at 413 W. 2nd Street in St. John. The other seven houses are currently in the bidding process and construction will begin shortly after bidding is completed.

Grant funding is provided by KHRC with the county of Stafford, city of Stafford, and city of St. John investing into this housing project. Part of the KHRC funding is in the form of tax credits. SJN Bank of Kansas is also providing a loan with a favorable interest rate to help spur growth in the county.

Although construction has started, Stafford County Economic Development, with Housing Opportunities Inc., will host a groundbreaking ceremony at 10:30 a.m. on May 1 at 743 W. Broadway in Stafford. 

These houses will be for sale. Information about the sale of the houses will be made public soon. Anyone interested in purchasing one of the homes can contact Ryan Russell at ryan@staffordecodevo.com or by calling (620) 314-5561 for more information. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713799924354.jpeg" alt="Construction has started on one of nine new homes in Stafford County. The first is being built at 303 W. Morrell in Stafford." />
 <figcaption>Construction has started on one of nine new homes in Stafford County. The first is being built at 303 W. Morrell in Stafford.</figcaption>
 </figure>The county of Stafford and Stafford County Economic Development have been developing a housing project for the last year and a half. The housing grant submitted to Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) in June 2023 was given award notice in October 2023 with the projected start date to build nine houses in early 2024. Eco Devo Director Ryan Russell said the time has now arrived for that project to begin with building houses in St. John and Stafford, respectively.With Housing Opportunities Inc. as the general contractor, Stafford County Economic Development has been able to keep 85 percent of the contracts for the first two houses inside Stafford County. Five of the nine homes will be built in St. John, and the other four will be built in Stafford. Construction has already started at 303 W. Morrell in Stafford. The next home will be constructed at 413 W. 2nd Street in St. John. The other seven houses are currently in the bidding process and construction will begin shortly after bidding is completed.Grant funding is provided by KHRC with the county of Stafford, city of Stafford, and city of St. John investing into this housing project. Part of the KHRC funding is in the form of tax credits. SJN Bank of Kansas is also providing a loan with a favorable interest rate to help spur growth in the county.Although construction has started, Stafford County Economic Development, with Housing Opportunities Inc., will host a groundbreaking ceremony at 10:30 a.m. on May 1 at 743 W. Broadway in Stafford. These houses will be for sale. Information about the sale of the houses will be made public soon. Anyone interested in purchasing one of the homes can contact Ryan Russell at ryan@staffordecodevo.com or by calling (620) 314-5561 for more information.

Stafford Co. holding groundbreaking ceremony on new homes May 1

There is a common joke in Kansas – and many parts of the country – that goes something like this: If you don’t like the weather right now, just wait a few minutes, because it will change! How many times do we start out the day with one type of weather and end the day with something completely different!

Weather in Kansas can change pretty quickly, so it’s important to know what to do in any situation in order to remain safe.

It starts with preparedness. We all should have a plan, including such things as just knowing how you get your weather alerts. You may get those from a weather radio or other sources, such as news media. And then, talk to your family.

It is a good idea for everyone to practice what they would do if faced with a real weather emergency. Parents can practice the plan with children well in advance of severe weather threats; doing so helps to ease children’s anxiety in a real emergency.

Practicing and having a plan saves lives. That is especially true in rural areas where appropriate shelter may be many miles away, a scenario many Kansans may be in.

Keep a weather safety kit that includes such items as non-perishable food, medicines, blankets, boots, extra clothes, helmets, weather radio, batteries, a charging device for phones and even a map to track the path of the storm while listening to news reports.

The best place to wait out severe weather is always the lowest, central location in the home. If you only have a first floor – and not a basement – the ideal spot is a centrally located hallway or bathroom. Stay away from windows.

If caught outside, don’t go under trees during thunderstorms and don’t try to out-run tornadoes in your car. A ditch is a safe place to go if you’re outside. Get down in the ditch; debris will typically blow over you. If you’re in a place without a ditch, get down on the ground as low as you can so you don’t have things hitting you.

· Get inside. Avoid porches and over-hangs. Stay away from windows.

· Stay off electronics that are hooked into a wall, including computer and cell phone.

· Stay out of the shower, or other water sources.

· On average, Kansas has 95 tornadoes per year. There has been as few as 17 tornadoes reported in 2020 and 190 in 2008.

· The peak time for tornadoes in Kansas is April through June, often referred to as tornado season.

· Tornadoes can occur any time of year and are solely dependent on atmospheric conditions.

· A basement or lower level of the house – away from windows -- is always the safest spot to wait out a tornado warning.

· Kansas gets approximately 600 wind damage reports annually.

· High winds – defined as those over 55 miles per hour – create problems not only by downing trees, but by making driving conditions and visibility more difficult.

· As with tornadoes, the safest place during a wind storm is inside in a central location, away from windows.

· In an average year, there are more than 1,000 reports of hail in Kansas. Severe hail is defined as 1 inch or more in diameter.

· One-inch hail can cause injury, damage to cars, and even damage house siding and roofs.

· Know your proximity to a flood plain to determine your risk, know the low-lying areas and where water runs.

· Away from home – and especially when driving – the risks due to flooding are much greater. On the road, the best advice is “turn around, don’t drown.”

· Six inches of water can move a car effectively.

· The road under the water may not be intact and could damage or disable your vehicle

More information about staying safe during many weather emergencies is available online from the National Weather Service.

More information on Kansas weather conditions, including up-to-date forecasts, is available online from https://mesonet.k-state.edu/

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>There is a common joke in Kansas – and many parts of the country – that goes something like this: If you don’t like the weather right now, just wait a few minutes, because it will change! How many times do we start out the day with one type of weather and end the day with something completely different!Weather in Kansas can change pretty quickly, so it’s important to know what to do in any situation in order to remain safe.It starts with preparedness. We all should have a plan, including such things as just knowing how you get your weather alerts. You may get those from a weather radio or other sources, such as news media. And then, talk to your family.It is a good idea for everyone to practice what they would do if faced with a real weather emergency. Parents can practice the plan with children well in advance of severe weather threats; doing so helps to ease children’s anxiety in a real emergency.Practicing and having a plan saves lives. That is especially true in rural areas where appropriate shelter may be many miles away, a scenario many Kansans may be in.Keep a weather safety kit that includes such items as non-perishable food, medicines, blankets, boots, extra clothes, helmets, weather radio, batteries, a charging device for phones and even a map to track the path of the storm while listening to news reports.The best place to wait out severe weather is always the lowest, central location in the home. If you only have a first floor – and not a basement – the ideal spot is a centrally located hallway or bathroom. Stay away from windows.If caught outside, don’t go under trees during thunderstorms and don’t try to out-run tornadoes in your car. A ditch is a safe place to go if you’re outside. Get down in the ditch; debris will typically blow over you. If you’re in a place without a ditch, get down on the ground as low as you can so you don’t have things hitting you.For specific weather emergencies:Lightning· Get inside. Avoid porches and over-hangs. Stay away from windows.· Stay off electronics that are hooked into a wall, including computer and cell phone.· Stay out of the shower, or other water sources.Tornado· On average, Kansas has 95 tornadoes per year. There has been as few as 17 tornadoes reported in 2020 and 190 in 2008.· The peak time for tornadoes in Kansas is April through June, often referred to as tornado season.· Tornadoes can occur any time of year and are solely dependent on atmospheric conditions.· A basement or lower level of the house – away from windows -- is always the safest spot to wait out a tornado warning.High winds· Kansas gets approximately 600 wind damage reports annually.· High winds – defined as those over 55 miles per hour – create problems not only by downing trees, but by making driving conditions and visibility more difficult.· As with tornadoes, the safest place during a wind storm is inside in a central location, away from windows.Hail· In an average year, there are more than 1,000 reports of hail in Kansas. Severe hail is defined as 1 inch or more in diameter.· One-inch hail can cause injury, damage to cars, and even damage house siding and roofs.Flooding· Know your proximity to a flood plain to determine your risk, know the low-lying areas and where water runs.· Away from home – and especially when driving – the risks due to flooding are much greater. On the road, the best advice is “turn around, don’t drown.”· Six inches of water can move a car effectively.· The road under the water may not be intact and could damage or disable your vehicleMore information about staying safe during many weather emergencies is available online from the National Weather Service.More information on Kansas weather conditions, including up-to-date forecasts, is available online from https://mesonet.k-state.edu/Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: What to do in severe weather

Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Heather Holaday, APRN, with Pawnee Valley Community Hospital in Larned. This episode will air Tuesday, April 23 at 7 p.m. and will focus on wound care.

Doctors on Call is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program. Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.

The program airs live on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel: http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at www.SmokyHillsPBS.org.

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to doctors@shptv.org. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713881917074.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Heather Holaday, APRN, with Pawnee Valley Community Hospital in Larned. This episode will air Tuesday, April 23 at 7 p.m. and will focus on wound care.Doctors on Call is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program. Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.The program airs live on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. You can also stream each episode LIVE on the Smoky Hills PBS YouTube channel: http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBSA schedule of programs and past episodes are available at www.SmokyHillsPBS.org.To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to doctors@shptv.org. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

PBS show to feature APRN from Larned

Sometimes a coach can let his record do the talking. Pending approval from the USD 428 Board of Education, Lars Lueders has been named the new wrestling coach at Great Bend High School. In his 14 years as head coach, Lueders has a 123-33 dual record, and his teams have produced 73 state medalists, 14 state champions, and five high school All-Americans. He got his start in Dodge City and is ready to move back into the Western Athletic Conference.

"Really, when I went out there for the first time and got to know the administration, you can tell they're good," Lueders said while appearing as a guest on Sports Day on 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM. "They want to be very successful. You can tell they're very driven and organized. When I went to that facility, it drops your jaw a little bit. It's huge. It's better than a lot of college facilities."

Lueders wrestled for three years and was a state qualifier at Clinton High School in Iowa under Hall of Fame Coach Dan Knight. Lueders' grandfather, Bob Lueders, is another hall of famer from Clinton. As a senior, Lars moved to Eagle Valley High School in Colorado where he was a state medalist.

Lueders remained in the state to play football and wrestle at the University of Northern Colorado. With that school turning Div. I, wrestlers would not be able to compete at the national tournament for four years, per NCAA rule. Many grapplers, including Lueders, transferred. He went on to wrestle at Western State College in Gunnison, now Western Colorado University, where he was a two-time national qualifier. He peaked at No. 3 in the national NCAA Div. II rankings - all while wrestling at nearly 8,000 feet.

"It's very unique," he said. "Our coaches really did a good job with the mental part. Any time we were conditioning or working hard, they'd always yell the elevation, '8,000 feet, men!' That just meant nobody else was training at that elevation. We were doing things a lot of people couldn't do. When they came to wrestle us, they weren't used to it and it definitely showed in the third period. We had a lot of first-ranked nationally teams that came in and we kind of thumped them because they couldn't breathe in the third period."

While still in his senior season at Colorado, he accepted his first head coaching job at Dodge City High School where he spent 11 years. He coached a year at Bishop Carroll in Wichita, then coached the last two seasons at Salina Central. He was named Class 5A Coach of the Year following the 2023-24 season and leaves the Mustangs as a potential Class 5A powerhouse next season. Lueders is also a two-time Class 6A Coach of the Year, and he's won the honor as league coach of the year five times.

Lueders' time at Bishop Carroll was short, but he believes subsequent life experiences have only made him a better coach.

"That's when the pandemic hit and there was a lot going on," he said. "I'd just had a son at that time. I actually took a couple years off and went to Kansas City and ran private lessons. I took a step back. I think it was really good for my coaching. I got to coach at a different level, more individualized, and see a different part of the state. Then I wanted to get back at it. I thought Salina Central could be a good fit. I was there for two years and kind of revived the program." 

Great Bend finished fourth place in Class 5A in 2023 under current Barton Coach Nathan Broeckelman, a friend of Lueders'. The Panthers placed sixth at state last year under Gannon Reichert. Several top performers from last year's team will be back next winter.

"This is by far the best situation I've walked into," Lueders said. "They can compete for a team trophy or even a state championship if they put it together. I've never had that. I have had to start off slow and try to maybe squeak into the top 10 the first year and go from there. This is definitely a unique situation and the setup is perfect to create a powerhouse. You have the Kids Club aligned with the high school, already. I've been talking with them. Even Nathan is at the college. It's almost like you can have not just a K-12 program but a K-Juco program if you do it right."

Lueders has already worked with the Great Bend Wrestling Club at The Lair, and he's ready to see what the varsity teams can do next winter.

"You can tell there's a lot of passion in the city to be successful," he said. "That's really what gets me going, especially coming from a wrestling family and a grandpa that was a hall of fame coach, that's what I strive for - a wrestling community that wants to be successful."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713792983236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSometimes a coach can let his record do the talking. Pending approval from the USD 428 Board of Education, Lars Lueders has been named the new wrestling coach at Great Bend High School. In his 14 years as head coach, Lueders has a 123-33 dual record, and his teams have produced 73 state medalists, 14 state champions, and five high school All-Americans. He got his start in Dodge City and is ready to move back into the Western Athletic Conference."Really, when I went out there for the first time and got to know the administration, you can tell they're good," Lueders said while appearing as a guest on Sports Day on 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM. "They want to be very successful. You can tell they're very driven and organized. When I went to that facility, it drops your jaw a little bit. It's huge. It's better than a lot of college facilities."Lueders wrestled for three years and was a state qualifier at Clinton High School in Iowa under Hall of Fame Coach Dan Knight. Lueders' grandfather, Bob Lueders, is another hall of famer from Clinton. As a senior, Lars moved to Eagle Valley High School in Colorado where he was a state medalist.Lueders remained in the state to play football and wrestle at the University of Northern Colorado. With that school turning Div. I, wrestlers would not be able to compete at the national tournament for four years, per NCAA rule. Many grapplers, including Lueders, transferred. He went on to wrestle at Western State College in Gunnison, now Western Colorado University, where he was a two-time national qualifier. He peaked at No. 3 in the national NCAA Div. II rankings - all while wrestling at nearly 8,000 feet."It's very unique," he said. "Our coaches really did a good job with the mental part. Any time we were conditioning or working hard, they'd always yell the elevation, '8,000 feet, men!' That just meant nobody else was training at that elevation. We were doing things a lot of people couldn't do. When they came to wrestle us, they weren't used to it and it definitely showed in the third period. We had a lot of first-ranked nationally teams that came in and we kind of thumped them because they couldn't breathe in the third period."While still in his senior season at Colorado, he accepted his first head coaching job at Dodge City High School where he spent 11 years. He coached a year at Bishop Carroll in Wichita, then coached the last two seasons at Salina Central. He was named Class 5A Coach of the Year following the 2023-24 season and leaves the Mustangs as a potential Class 5A powerhouse next season. Lueders is also a two-time Class 6A Coach of the Year, and he's won the honor as league coach of the year five times.Lueders' time at Bishop Carroll was short, but he believes subsequent life experiences have only made him a better coach."That's when the pandemic hit and there was a lot going on," he said. "I'd just had a son at that time. I actually took a couple years off and went to Kansas City and ran private lessons. I took a step back. I think it was really good for my coaching. I got to coach at a different level, more individualized, and see a different part of the state. Then I wanted to get back at it. I thought Salina Central could be a good fit. I was there for two years and kind of revived the program." Great Bend finished fourth place in Class 5A in 2023 under current Barton Coach Nathan Broeckelman, a friend of Lueders'. The Panthers placed sixth at state last year under Gannon Reichert. Several top performers from last year's team will be back next winter."This is by far the best situation I've walked into," Lueders said. "They can compete for a team trophy or even a state championship if they put it together. I've never had that. I have had to start off slow and try to maybe squeak into the top 10 the first year and go from there. This is definitely a unique situation and the setup is perfect to create a powerhouse. You have the Kids Club aligned with the high school, already. I've been talking with them. Even Nathan is at the college. It's almost like you can have not just a K-12 program but a K-Juco program if you do it right."Lueders has already worked with the Great Bend Wrestling Club at The Lair, and he's ready to see what the varsity teams can do next winter."You can tell there's a lot of passion in the city to be successful," he said. "That's really what gets me going, especially coming from a wrestling family and a grandpa that was a hall of fame coach, that's what I strive for - a wrestling community that wants to be successful."

New head coach excited about wrestling potential in Great Bend

With zero to low visibility, an activity bus with Russell USD 407 was involved in an accident Tuesday morning. The bus was transporting the Russell/Victoria baseball team to Liberal for a doubleheader.

The accident occurred on Northwest 30 Avenue, north of Northwest 50 Road, in Barton County. Law enforcement blocked off Northwest 30 Avenue from Northwest 50 Road and north.

Minor injuries to three students have been reported.

In a letter sent out to USD 407 families, Superintendent Jordan Perez said the school district was notified of the crash shortly after 10 a.m. The crash occurred at low speeds due to drivers slowing down to navigate the conditions. USD 407 administration drove to the scene to transport the students and staff back to Russell.

Check back with Great Bend Post as more details on the accident become available. (This story has been updated to include injury information)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713889135840.jpeg" alt="photo by Mike Courson, Great Bend Post" />
 <figcaption>photo by Mike Courson, Great Bend Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostWith zero to low visibility, an activity bus with Russell USD 407 was involved in an accident Tuesday morning. The bus was transporting the Russell/Victoria baseball team to Liberal for a doubleheader.The accident occurred on Northwest 30 Avenue, north of Northwest 50 Road, in Barton County. Law enforcement blocked off Northwest 30 Avenue from Northwest 50 Road and north.Minor injuries to three students have been reported.In a letter sent out to USD 407 families, Superintendent Jordan Perez said the school district was notified of the crash shortly after 10 a.m. The crash occurred at low speeds due to drivers slowing down to navigate the conditions. USD 407 administration drove to the scene to transport the students and staff back to Russell.Check back with Great Bend Post as more details on the accident become available. (This story has been updated to include injury information)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713889189320.jpeg" alt="photo by Mike Courson, Great Bend Post" />
 <figcaption>photo by Mike Courson, Great Bend Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713889209719.jpeg" alt="photo by Mike Courson, Great Bend Post" />
 <figcaption>photo by Mike Courson, Great Bend Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Russell school bus with baseball team involved in crash

REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Tuesday, April 23, 4 p.m. Room F-30/ZOOM, Fine Arts Building

1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will call the meeting to order.

3. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will invite public comments.

4. INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND NEW EMPLOYEES &nbsp; &nbsp;Carl Heilman, President will provide introductions and recognition of personnel.

5. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICESZ &nbsp; &nbsp;Nick Larmer, Director of Emergency Meical Services Education will give this presentation.

6. MONITORING REPORT – END 5 REGIONAL WORKFORCE NEEDS &nbsp; &nbsp;Kathy Kottas, Dean of Workforce Training &amp; Community Education and Kurtis Teal, Dean of Military Academics, Technical Education and Outreach Programs will facilitate this report.

7. STRATEGIC PLANNING &nbsp; &nbsp;Todd Mobray, Director of Institutional Effectiveness will give this report.

8. GRADUATION REVIEW &nbsp; &nbsp;Angie Maddy, Vice President of Student Services will facilitate this review.

9. FACULTY CONTRACT RENEWALS &nbsp; &nbsp;Elaine Simmons, Vice President of Instruction will review for Trustee approval.

10. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;Routine items are presented for action in one motion. Any Trustee may remove an item from the consent agenda for individual discussion and action. It is recommended that the Board approve the consent agenda as presented. &nbsp; &nbsp;a. Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp;b. BOT Meeting Minutes of March 26, 2024

11. INCIDENTAL INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS &nbsp; &nbsp;a. President’s Report of Monthly Activities &nbsp; &nbsp;b. KACC/Board Chair Report by Mike Johnson, Board Chair &nbsp; &nbsp;c. KBOR Update by Carl Heilman, President &nbsp; &nbsp;d. Upcoming Events &nbsp; &nbsp;e. Miscellaneous

12. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board will recess to executive session in compliance with KSA 75-4319 and with the Kansas Open Meetings Act.

13. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will again invite public comments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627047186061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Tuesday, April 23, 4 p.m. Room F-30/ZOOM, Fine Arts BuildingAgenda1. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will call the meeting to order.2. OFFICIAL BOARD MEETINGS3. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will invite public comments.4. INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND NEW EMPLOYEES &nbsp; &nbsp;Carl Heilman, President will provide introductions and recognition of personnel.5. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICESZ &nbsp; &nbsp;Nick Larmer, Director of Emergency Meical Services Education will give this presentation.6. MONITORING REPORT – END 5 REGIONAL WORKFORCE NEEDS &nbsp; &nbsp;Kathy Kottas, Dean of Workforce Training &amp; Community Education and Kurtis Teal, Dean of Military Academics, Technical Education and Outreach Programs will facilitate this report.7. STRATEGIC PLANNING &nbsp; &nbsp;Todd Mobray, Director of Institutional Effectiveness will give this report.8. GRADUATION REVIEW &nbsp; &nbsp;Angie Maddy, Vice President of Student Services will facilitate this review.9. FACULTY CONTRACT RENEWALS &nbsp; &nbsp;Elaine Simmons, Vice President of Instruction will review for Trustee approval.10. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;Routine items are presented for action in one motion. Any Trustee may remove an item from the consent agenda for individual discussion and action. It is recommended that the Board approve the consent agenda as presented. &nbsp; &nbsp;a. Personnel &nbsp; &nbsp;b. BOT Meeting Minutes of March 26, 202411. INCIDENTAL INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS &nbsp; &nbsp;a. President’s Report of Monthly Activities &nbsp; &nbsp;b. KACC/Board Chair Report by Mike Johnson, Board Chair &nbsp; &nbsp;c. KBOR Update by Carl Heilman, President &nbsp; &nbsp;d. Upcoming Events &nbsp; &nbsp;e. Miscellaneous12. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board will recess to executive session in compliance with KSA 75-4319 and with the Kansas Open Meetings Act.13. PUBLIC COMMENT &nbsp; &nbsp;Mike Johnson, Board Chair will again invite public comments.14. ADJOURNMENT

Barton CC Trustees meeting agenda (4/23)

In November 2023, Barton County terminated the employment of then- Central Kansas Community Corrections (CKCC) Director Amy Boxberger and CKCC Employee Tyler Lehmkuhl. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission approved a settlement resulting from a mediation with those employees. County Counselor Patrick Hoffman said an original severance package was denied by Boxberger and Lehmkuhl, who later filed a claim with the county's insurance carrier. The sides came to an agreement during mediation.

"In approving this, the county does not admit any liability or wrongdoing, and in fact, the county does not believe any laws were violated," Hoffman said. "However, in the best interest of preserving the county's time, energy, and resources, it is the recommendation of staff to approve these payments."

Boxberger will receive a total of $113,000 for full release and settlement of the claim. A paycheck of $56,500 will be issued via the regular payroll process for disputed lost wages. Barton County will pay $25,000 of that total with the remainder paid by EMC Insurance Companies. Another $56,500 will be paid to Boxberger as an ordinary check representing alleged but disputed compensatory damages and attorney's fees.

Lehmkuhl will receive a total of $57,000 for full release and settlement of the claim. A paycheck of $28,500 will be issued via the regular payroll process for disputed lost wages. Barton County will pay $10,000 of that total with with the remainder paid by EMC Insurance Companies. Another $28,500 ordinary check will be paid to Lehmkuhl as "other income."

"Since the joining the commission, there have been several tough decisions to make: HVAC, solar energy, and now the Central Kansas Community Correction employment settlement," said Commissioner Donna Zimmerman. "I realize many listening to this agenda will have their own opinions, as I often do when I hear the news. The problem is, there is oftentimes information that the general public isn't or cannnot be made aware of for many reasons; the other side of the story. 

"I hate the narrative that settling this suit will create," Zimmerman continued. "There were serious deficiencies. Corrective action was called for by KDOC (Kansas Department of Corrections) in their combined 57-page fiscal year 2023 audit and quality improvement plan. I would have liked to have seen the suit litigated, but our insurance carrier weighed the time and cost of litigation against settlement. That's why we are where we are today. In order to bring closure and in order to move forward in a positive way, as much as it pains me, I will be voting in favor of the settlement."

Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said the settlement was the best course of action moving forward.

"To sum it up, it's a business decision," he said. "It's something we don't feel like we'd lose, but the cost of attorneys would be greater, and dragging this out over two or three years would be longer than just getting it over with right now."

Commission Chair Barb Esfeld agreed that the settlement was best for Barton County taxpayers. "For me, it's been very painful as well," she said. "I believe we move better in the future and not the past, and I believe this settlement is the least expense to the taxpayers."

Commissioner Tricia Schlessiger echoed sentiments made by the other commissioners, as did Commissioner Duane Reif.

"This has really been a difficult process for each and every one of us," Reif said. "We did not take it lightly. It really did weigh on each and every one of us, but I still feel like it's the best decision."

At a commission meeting earlier this month, new CKCC Director Brooke Haulmark told the commission her budget for fiscal year 2025 was $10,000 less than last year's budget. She proposed a three-step plan to address previous deficiencies reported by KDOC. One of the deficiencies included not meeting minimum actions for sex offender clients.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692296570296.jpeg" alt="Former Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Amy Boxberger at a previous Barton County Commission meeting. Tuesday morning, the board approved settlements relating to the termination of Boxberger and another CKCC employee in November 2023." />
 <figcaption>Former Central Kansas Community Corrections Director Amy Boxberger at a previous Barton County Commission meeting. Tuesday morning, the board approved settlements relating to the termination of Boxberger and another CKCC employee in November 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn November 2023, Barton County terminated the employment of then- Central Kansas Community Corrections (CKCC) Director Amy Boxberger and CKCC Employee Tyler Lehmkuhl. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission approved a settlement resulting from a mediation with those employees. County Counselor Patrick Hoffman said an original severance package was denied by Boxberger and Lehmkuhl, who later filed a claim with the county's insurance carrier. The sides came to an agreement during mediation."In approving this, the county does not admit any liability or wrongdoing, and in fact, the county does not believe any laws were violated," Hoffman said. "However, in the best interest of preserving the county's time, energy, and resources, it is the recommendation of staff to approve these payments."Boxberger will receive a total of $113,000 for full release and settlement of the claim. A paycheck of $56,500 will be issued via the regular payroll process for disputed lost wages. Barton County will pay $25,000 of that total with the remainder paid by EMC Insurance Companies. Another $56,500 will be paid to Boxberger as an ordinary check representing alleged but disputed compensatory damages and attorney's fees.Lehmkuhl will receive a total of $57,000 for full release and settlement of the claim. A paycheck of $28,500 will be issued via the regular payroll process for disputed lost wages. Barton County will pay $10,000 of that total with with the remainder paid by EMC Insurance Companies. Another $28,500 ordinary check will be paid to Lehmkuhl as "other income.""Since the joining the commission, there have been several tough decisions to make: HVAC, solar energy, and now the Central Kansas Community Correction employment settlement," said Commissioner Donna Zimmerman. "I realize many listening to this agenda will have their own opinions, as I often do when I hear the news. The problem is, there is oftentimes information that the general public isn't or cannnot be made aware of for many reasons; the other side of the story. "I hate the narrative that settling this suit will create," Zimmerman continued. "There were serious deficiencies. Corrective action was called for by KDOC (Kansas Department of Corrections) in their combined 57-page fiscal year 2023 audit and quality improvement plan. I would have liked to have seen the suit litigated, but our insurance carrier weighed the time and cost of litigation against settlement. That's why we are where we are today. In order to bring closure and in order to move forward in a positive way, as much as it pains me, I will be voting in favor of the settlement."Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said the settlement was the best course of action moving forward."To sum it up, it's a business decision," he said. "It's something we don't feel like we'd lose, but the cost of attorneys would be greater, and dragging this out over two or three years would be longer than just getting it over with right now."Commission Chair Barb Esfeld agreed that the settlement was best for Barton County taxpayers. "For me, it's been very painful as well," she said. "I believe we move better in the future and not the past, and I believe this settlement is the least expense to the taxpayers."Commissioner Tricia Schlessiger echoed sentiments made by the other commissioners, as did Commissioner Duane Reif."This has really been a difficult process for each and every one of us," Reif said. "We did not take it lightly. It really did weigh on each and every one of us, but I still feel like it's the best decision."At a commission meeting earlier this month, new CKCC Director Brooke Haulmark told the commission her budget for fiscal year 2025 was $10,000 less than last year's budget. She proposed a three-step plan to address previous deficiencies reported by KDOC. One of the deficiencies included not meeting minimum actions for sex offender clients.

Barton Commission approves settlement with former CKCC employees

From United Way of Central Kansas...

United Way of Central Kansas proudly introduces its 2025 Co-Chairs, embodying the spirit of community engagement and service that defines the organization's mission. These outstanding individuals, deeply rooted in Central Kansas, bring diverse backgrounds and a shared commitment to making a difference in their communities.

"We are thrilled to welcome Haley and Cody Ruble, and Duane and Debbie Reif as our Co-Chairs for 2025," said Charell Owings, United Way of Central Kansas Executive Director. "Their leadership will be instrumental in advancing our mission and expanding our impact throughout the region."

Haley and Cody Ruble are proud natives of Barton County, deeply rooted in their community and dedicated to making a difference. Haley completed her Master’s of Business Administration at Wichita State University in 2018 prior to relocating back to Great Bend. She now operates FreeStyle Marketing, where she supports nonprofits and small businesses statewide. Alongside her professional endeavors, Haley lends her time and skills to organizations such as Kiwanis and Central Kansas CASA. Meanwhile, Cody serves as a captain and paramedic with the Great Bend Fire Department. His involvement extends to the board of KIDS Network, where he educates parents on safe sleep practices. He also serves as a certified car seat technician and led the initiative behind the Great Bend Fire Department’s car seat program, which provides car seats free of charge to those who qualify. Together, Haley and Cody have two children, Peyton and Isaac.

Duane &amp; Debbie Reif were both born and raised in the Hoisington area where they both attended Hoisington High School, graduating in 1972 before attending Barton County Community College. They were married in 1977. Duane and Debbie, along with their two children, Sarah and Shane, founded the Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation in 1994, a 501c3 non-profit organization that has been providing financial and emotional support for children with childhood cancer for the past 30 years. Duane and Debbie retired from Kans for Kids in 2021.

Duane is currently a Barton County Commissioner. Over the years he has served as a city councilman for Hoisington, a member of the zoning/planning board, and he has been a member of the Hoisington Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years. Both Duane and Debbie have been active in the community including serving on the Hoisington Chamber of Commerce board. They have been recognized as Hoisington’s Citizens of the Year and are active members of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Great Bend.

UWCK extends its heartfelt appreciation to Haley and Cody Ruble, and Duane and Debbie Reif for their willingness to serve as Co-Chairs for 2025. Their dedication, expertise, and passion will undoubtedly inspire positive change and uplift countless lives throughout Central Kansas.

UWCK is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities throughout Central Kansas. By mobilizing resources, fostering partnerships, and advocating for social change, United Way of Central Kansas works to address the most pressing needs facing the community and create lasting impact. For more information about United Way of Central Kansas and its initiatives, please visit www.uwck.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713877452114.jpeg" alt="Haley and Cody Ruble and Debbie and Duane Reif were announced as the 2025 co-chairs for the United Way of Central Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Haley and Cody Ruble and Debbie and Duane Reif were announced as the 2025 co-chairs for the United Way of Central Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>From United Way of Central Kansas...United Way of Central Kansas proudly introduces its 2025 Co-Chairs, embodying the spirit of community engagement and service that defines the organization's mission. These outstanding individuals, deeply rooted in Central Kansas, bring diverse backgrounds and a shared commitment to making a difference in their communities."We are thrilled to welcome Haley and Cody Ruble, and Duane and Debbie Reif as our Co-Chairs for 2025," said Charell Owings, United Way of Central Kansas Executive Director. "Their leadership will be instrumental in advancing our mission and expanding our impact throughout the region."Haley and Cody Ruble are proud natives of Barton County, deeply rooted in their community and dedicated to making a difference. Haley completed her Master’s of Business Administration at Wichita State University in 2018 prior to relocating back to Great Bend. She now operates FreeStyle Marketing, where she supports nonprofits and small businesses statewide. Alongside her professional endeavors, Haley lends her time and skills to organizations such as Kiwanis and Central Kansas CASA. Meanwhile, Cody serves as a captain and paramedic with the Great Bend Fire Department. His involvement extends to the board of KIDS Network, where he educates parents on safe sleep practices. He also serves as a certified car seat technician and led the initiative behind the Great Bend Fire Department’s car seat program, which provides car seats free of charge to those who qualify. Together, Haley and Cody have two children, Peyton and Isaac.Duane &amp; Debbie Reif were both born and raised in the Hoisington area where they both attended Hoisington High School, graduating in 1972 before attending Barton County Community College. They were married in 1977. Duane and Debbie, along with their two children, Sarah and Shane, founded the Kans for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation in 1994, a 501c3 non-profit organization that has been providing financial and emotional support for children with childhood cancer for the past 30 years. Duane and Debbie retired from Kans for Kids in 2021.Duane is currently a Barton County Commissioner. Over the years he has served as a city councilman for Hoisington, a member of the zoning/planning board, and he has been a member of the Hoisington Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years. Both Duane and Debbie have been active in the community including serving on the Hoisington Chamber of Commerce board. They have been recognized as Hoisington’s Citizens of the Year and are active members of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Great Bend.UWCK extends its heartfelt appreciation to Haley and Cody Ruble, and Duane and Debbie Reif for their willingness to serve as Co-Chairs for 2025. Their dedication, expertise, and passion will undoubtedly inspire positive change and uplift countless lives throughout Central Kansas.UWCK is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities throughout Central Kansas. By mobilizing resources, fostering partnerships, and advocating for social change, United Way of Central Kansas works to address the most pressing needs facing the community and create lasting impact. For more information about United Way of Central Kansas and its initiatives, please visit www.uwck.org.

United Way of Central Kansas announces 2025 Co-Chairs

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/22)

At 2:23 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 90 Road
&amp; 100 Avenue.

At 10:38 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 50 Road
&amp; NE K-156 Highway.

At 2:21 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 624 Main
Street in Dundee.

At 4:01 p.m. a sick person was reported at 44 NE 60 Road.

At 5:44 p.m. an accident was reported in the 1400 block of
McKinley Street.

At 7:22 p.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at US 281 Highway
&amp; NW 190 Road in Galatia.

At 8:25 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at E. 3rd
Street &amp; N. Wieland Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 8:27 p.m. the K-9 was called out to E. 3rd
Street &amp; Wieland Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 8:34 p.m. a trash complaint/dumping was reported in the
300 block of NE 30 Road.

At 9:16 p.m. an accident was reported at S. US 281 Highway
&amp; SE 50 Road.

At 11:48 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1408
Kansas Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/22)

At 1:40 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1206 Morphy
Street.

At 2:40 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 505 3rd
Street.

At 3:53 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3632 Robin Road.

At 11:27 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3736 Robin Road.

At 11:38 a.m. a fire alarm was reported at 3021 24th
Street.

At 5:06 p.m. an accident was reported at 3511 10th
Street.

At 6:14 p.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, reported
Jeremiah Zamarripa shoplifting items. NTA signed and served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/22)Animal ComplaintAt 2:23 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 90 Road
&amp; 100 Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:38 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 50 Road
&amp; NE K-156 Highway.Animal ComplaintAt 2:21 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 624 Main
Street in Dundee.Sick PersonAt 4:01 p.m. a sick person was reported at 44 NE 60 Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 5:44 p.m. an accident was reported in the 1400 block of
McKinley Street.Gas Leak / SpillAt 7:22 p.m. a gas leak/spill was reported at US 281 Highway
&amp; NW 190 Road in Galatia.Traffic ArrestAt 8:25 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at E. 3rd
Street &amp; N. Wieland Avenue in Ellinwood.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 8:27 p.m. the K-9 was called out to E. 3rd
Street &amp; Wieland Avenue in Ellinwood.Trash Complaint / DumpingAt 8:34 p.m. a trash complaint/dumping was reported in the
300 block of NE 30 Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:16 p.m. an accident was reported at S. US 281 Highway
&amp; SE 50 Road.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 11:48 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1408
Kansas Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/22)Sick PersonAt 1:40 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1206 Morphy
Street.Breathing ProblemsAt 2:40 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 505 3rd
Street.Diabetic ProblemsAt 3:53 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3632 Robin Road.Traumatic InjuriesAt 11:27 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3736 Robin Road.Structure FireAt 11:38 a.m. a fire alarm was reported at 3021 24th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 5:06 p.m. an accident was reported at 3511 10th
Street.At 5:44 p.m. an accident was reported in the 1400 block of
McKinley Street.TheftAt 6:14 p.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, reported
Jeremiah Zamarripa shoplifting items. NTA signed and served.

Cop Shop (4/22)

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Great Bend Post is your destination for local news, sports, obituaries, opinion, announcements, and more in Great Bend, KS.

Great Bend Post is your trusted news source for local &amp; regional news in the Great Bend area. Stay up to date with everything happening around you, delivered right to your phone.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619211900118.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Download the official Great Bend Post mobile app today!Great Bend Post is your destination for local news, sports, obituaries, opinion, announcements, and more in Great Bend, KS.Great Bend Post is your trusted news source for local &amp; regional news in the Great Bend area. Stay up to date with everything happening around you, delivered right to your phone.- Browse local, regional, sports, obituaries, announcements, &amp; more - Customize your experience in light mode or dark mode - Search thousands of posts - Listen to any of our radio stations online for free - Easily share important news to friends &amp; family<figure>
 <img src="https://greatbendpost.com/misc/apple-download.png" alt="Download on the App Store <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/great-bend-post-by-eagle/id1536149932">HERE</a>." />
 <figcaption>Download on the App Store <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/great-bend-post-by-eagle/id1536149932">HERE</a>.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Download the Great Bend Post mobile app

4/22 BOOKED: Malcom Moody-Standlee on Trego County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

BOOKED: Kenneth Reed on Barton County District Court case, for return to court.

BOOKED: Dustin Young on Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Trenton Richerson on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, Possession of Stolen Property, and Possession of a Controlled Substance, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Alexandra Dirreen on Barton County District Court case for Violation of Restricted Driver's License or Permit, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Craig Brended on Barton County District Court case for Trafficking Contraband Into a Correctional Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, per county attorney.

RELEASED: Zachary McKay on Barton County District Court case, after case terminated.

RELEASED: Brandon Goodwin on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, Criminal Deprivation of a Motor Vehicle, and Criminal Damage to Property, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Tara Amador on Barton County District Court case, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Michael Warren on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, on 48-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Robert Standlee on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Malcom Moody-Standlee on Trego County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651581305265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/22 BOOKED: Malcom Moody-Standlee on Trego County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.BOOKED: Kenneth Reed on Barton County District Court case, for return to court.BOOKED: Dustin Young on Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Trenton Richerson on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, Possession of Stolen Property, and Possession of a Controlled Substance, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Alexandra Dirreen on Barton County District Court case for Violation of Restricted Driver's License or Permit, bond set at $500 C/S.RELEASED: Craig Brended on Barton County District Court case for Trafficking Contraband Into a Correctional Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, No Drug Tax Stamp, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, per county attorney.RELEASED: Zachary McKay on Barton County District Court case, after case terminated.RELEASED: Brandon Goodwin on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, Criminal Deprivation of a Motor Vehicle, and Criminal Damage to Property, by order of the court.RELEASED: Tara Amador on Barton County District Court case, by order of the court.RELEASED: Michael Warren on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, on 48-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Robert Standlee on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Malcom Moody-Standlee on Trego County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/22)

Great Bend Alive, the downtown arm of Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is excited to announce the upcoming Fridays on Forest Kick-Off on April 26. The event will take place on Forest Avenue, from Williams to Main. 

Lee Ann June, GBED Communications Director said, “Fridays on Forest creates the perfect 'third place' for locals and visitors alike to unwind, connect, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, alongside live music, fun food, and beverages.” 

The kickoff will feature music from Tim Anthony &amp; the Animals, food vendors from Lumpy’s, Los Dos Portillo’s, Brand 17 BBQ, and Lana’s Catering &amp; Goodies, plus our alcohol vendors, Charlie’s Place, Dry Lake Brewing, Los Dos Portillo’s, and Lumpy’s.

FUEL Barton County, formerly Barton County Young Professionals, has joined forces with Great Bend Alive to fill in as gatekeepers for the event. FUEL Barton County, dedicated to engaging and retaining young adults in Barton County, recognizes the significance of community involvement. FUEL gatekeepers are bringing some giveaways to the evening’s fun. Those interested in joining FUEL can scan a QR code at any of the tables on Forest. The QR code will take them to a short form and those that sign in will also be entered into a drawing for gift baskets. Talk to a gatekeeper on Friday for more details.

For a full list of details including the evening’s menu options, check out the website, www.gbedinc.com/downtownevents. Be sure to tag Great Bend Alive (@greatbendalive) or add the hashtag #GBAlive to your pictures from Friday.

About Great Bend Alive: Great Bend Alive has been designated as a Kansas Main Street Program by the Kansas Department of Commerce. Great Bend Alive, the downtown development arm of Great Bend Economic Development, has a focus on historic preservation, events/promotion, development/economic vitality, and design/streetscape. For more information about Great Bend Alive visit: www.gbedinc.com/mainstreet, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693241285374.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Alive, the downtown arm of Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) is excited to announce the upcoming Fridays on Forest Kick-Off on April 26. The event will take place on Forest Avenue, from Williams to Main. Lee Ann June, GBED Communications Director said, “Fridays on Forest creates the perfect 'third place' for locals and visitors alike to unwind, connect, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, alongside live music, fun food, and beverages.” The kickoff will feature music from Tim Anthony &amp; the Animals, food vendors from Lumpy’s, Los Dos Portillo’s, Brand 17 BBQ, and Lana’s Catering &amp; Goodies, plus our alcohol vendors, Charlie’s Place, Dry Lake Brewing, Los Dos Portillo’s, and Lumpy’s.FUEL Barton County, formerly Barton County Young Professionals, has joined forces with Great Bend Alive to fill in as gatekeepers for the event. FUEL Barton County, dedicated to engaging and retaining young adults in Barton County, recognizes the significance of community involvement. FUEL gatekeepers are bringing some giveaways to the evening’s fun. Those interested in joining FUEL can scan a QR code at any of the tables on Forest. The QR code will take them to a short form and those that sign in will also be entered into a drawing for gift baskets. Talk to a gatekeeper on Friday for more details.For a full list of details including the evening’s menu options, check out the website, www.gbedinc.com/downtownevents. Be sure to tag Great Bend Alive (@greatbendalive) or add the hashtag #GBAlive to your pictures from Friday.About Great Bend Alive: Great Bend Alive has been designated as a Kansas Main Street Program by the Kansas Department of Commerce. Great Bend Alive, the downtown development arm of Great Bend Economic Development, has a focus on historic preservation, events/promotion, development/economic vitality, and design/streetscape. For more information about Great Bend Alive visit: www.gbedinc.com/mainstreet, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Great Bend Alive kicks off Fridays on Forest season this Friday

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a north wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north-northeast 19 to 29 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.

Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 4 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 45. Northeast wind 8 to 13 mph.

Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 7 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 69. East-southeast wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday Night A chance of showers between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50. South-southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Thursday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. Windy.

Friday A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 82. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48. Breezy.

Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.

Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. Breezy.

Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 78.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy, with a north wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north-northeast 19 to 29 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 4 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 45. Northeast wind 8 to 13 mph.Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 7 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 69. East-southeast wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Wednesday Night A chance of showers between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 50. South-southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Thursday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 71. Breezy, with a southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. Windy.Friday A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 82. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 48. Breezy.Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. Breezy.Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45.Monday Sunny, with a high near 78.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.zTGmhP8EQK6PID_PNq3M09hxkjp6zjznA-RAz31-bSY/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

&nbsp;During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ2NjMDIuc2FmZWxpbmtzLnByb3RlY3Rpb24ub3V0bG9vay5jb20vP2RhdGE9MDUlN0MwMiU3Q01pdGNoZWxsLk9zdGVybHVuZCU0MGtzLmdvdiU3QzFjZDNhOTM2NTM2YjRlNTllOWUxMDhkYzU0ZTc5ZjVmJTdDZGNhZTgxMDFjOTJkNDgwY2JjNDNjNjc2MWNjY2NjNWElN0MwJTdDMCU3QzYzODQ3ODYwMDk4NjkwNjg5NyU3Q1Vua25vd24lN0NUV0ZwYkdac2IzZDhleUpXSWpvaU1DNHdMakF3TURBaUxDSlFJam9pVjJsdU16SWlMQ0pCVGlJNklrMWhhV3dpTENKWFZDSTZNbjAlM0QlN0MwJTdDJTdDJTdDJnJlc2VydmVkPTAmc2RhdGE9dSUyQmJMRUpVZGhZb2RlTjVEdkVwakVBMUhva3cyMEowazFGVjNsd0d6MVNFJTNEJnVybD1odHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdiUyRjc3NyUyRkhhcm1mdWwtQWxnYWwtQmxvb21zJTNGdXRtX21lZGl1bSUzRGVtYWlsJTI2dXRtX3NvdXJjZSUzRGdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5JnV0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MTkuOTM2MjA2MTEifQ.pxSnirKLyOTIkmcgMPSdg1Wsxd0BynmRbiifwvSxk8M/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.y-bSpDBeYLR37cfzQ7tWMQwiZImTc5B9czo1DhCghac/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.rRf6nzlRla5hshlwpzQ0haZaJ-VFARhIC0m632wiIdw/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">informative video</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.zTGmhP8EQK6PID_PNq3M09hxkjp6zjznA-RAz31-bSY/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active AdvisoriesWarning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li>
 </ul>Watch&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>&nbsp;Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County (Added on April 19)</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.&nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.&nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.&nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.&nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.</li><li>Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.pxSnirKLyOTIkmcgMPSdg1Wsxd0BynmRbiifwvSxk8M/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ2NjMDIuc2FmZWxpbmtzLnByb3RlY3Rpb24ub3V0bG9vay5jb20vP2RhdGE9MDUlN0MwMiU3Q01pdGNoZWxsLk9zdGVybHVuZCU0MGtzLmdvdiU3QzFjZDNhOTM2NTM2YjRlNTllOWUxMDhkYzU0ZTc5ZjVmJTdDZGNhZTgxMDFjOTJkNDgwY2JjNDNjNjc2MWNjY2NjNWElN0MwJTdDMCU3QzYzODQ3ODYwMDk4NjkxMzI0NCU3Q1Vua25vd24lN0NUV0ZwYkdac2IzZDhleUpXSWpvaU1DNHdMakF3TURBaUxDSlFJam9pVjJsdU16SWlMQ0pCVGlJNklrMWhhV3dpTENKWFZDSTZNbjAlM0QlN0MwJTdDJTdDJTdDJnJlc2VydmVkPTAmc2RhdGE9dG10QVNJRzEzMVVabHpwbkRrdUk1ZWs5NWdBMmxWNmhQQmMwanZJUHBJUSUzRCZ1cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZzdG9yeW1hcHMuYXJjZ2lzLmNvbSUyRnN0b3JpZXMlMkZjMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYiUzRnV0bV9tZWRpdW0lM0RlbWFpbCUyNnV0bV9zb3VyY2UlM0Rnb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDE5LjkzNjIwNjExIn0.y-bSpDBeYLR37cfzQ7tWMQwiZImTc5B9czo1DhCghac/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.rRf6nzlRla5hshlwpzQ0haZaJ-VFARhIC0m632wiIdw/s/1305943097/br/241075546611-l" target="_blank">informative video</a>.

Public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3LT2MF6. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting April 23, 2024 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the April 2, 2024, the April 9, 2024, and the April 16, 2024, Regular Meetings. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of April 9, 2024, and ending April 23, 2024.

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 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3LT2MF6. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting April 23, 2024 9 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the April 2, 2024, the April 9, 2024, and the April 16, 2024, Regular Meetings. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of April 9, 2024, and ending April 23, 2024.III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE: Request for Approval – Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present a listing of Added / Abated / Escaped / Refunded Taxes. Orders for these actions are kept on file in the County Clerk’s Office. These are used to correct assessments and are requested by the County Appraiser’s Office or the County Clerk’s Office.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. RESOLUTION 2024-14: A Resolution Transferring and Carrying Over 2023 Unexpended Funds to the Capital Improvement and Equipment Replacement Funds: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will present details. After accounting of all 2023 transactions, monies are suggested for&nbsp;transfer to the Capital Improvement and Equipment Replacement Funds.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. UPDATE: 2024 Authorized Positions Listing: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Patzner will provide details. It is suggested that the Commission approve the addition of an office assistant position as a part-time employee under Central Kansas Community Corrections. The person in this position will work with the CKCC Director, office assistant and other personnel in performing vital tasks for departmental operations.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, will present details. Barton County has been involved with the development of a settlement agreement with two former employees. Those agreements will be considered at this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;E. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;-County officials, individually or in groups, may visit the Courthouse or those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. With the Courthouse located at 1400 Main, other buildings being used for housing are 1520 Main and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials are invited to attend a quarterly meeting with the Gove, Graham, Hodgeman, Lane, Rush and Trego County Commissioners. The meeting begins at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the Ness County Courthouse, 202 W Sycamore, Ness City, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Program Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Dena Popp, 911 Director, is scheduled for April 25, 2024.VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 30, 2024.VII. ADJOURN

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