From <a href="https://siuecougars.com/index.aspx">siuecougars.com</a>

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – SIUE men's basketball captured its first Ohio Valley Conference Tournament Championship, defeating top-seed Southeast Missouri 69-48 at the Ford Center Saturday. The win secures the Cougars' first title and the first-ever trip to the Division I basketball championship.

SIUE (22-11) will learn its tournament fate Sun., March 16 when the NCAA Brackets are revealed at 5 p.m. CT.

The Cougars held the league's highest scoring team to its lowest point total of the season.

The Cougars led by 11 (35-24) at half and withstood a furious run from the Redhawks at the start of the second half. SEMO tied the score at 38 but never overtook the Cougars. The Cougars put the Redhawks away with a 19-2 run.

<a href="https://siuecougars.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/ray-sean-taylor/12070">Ray'Sean Taylor</a>&nbsp;led all scorers with 20 points and in the process became SIUE's all-time leading scorer. Taylor now has 1,952 points in his career. Taylor earned Most Valuable Player honors after scoring 24 points in the semifinal.

<a href="https://siuecougars.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/ring-malith/12077">Ring Malith</a>&nbsp;(12 points) and&nbsp;<a href="https://siuecougars.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/myles-thompson/12076">Myles Thompson</a>&nbsp;(9 points) joined Taylor on the All-Tournament team.

**Both Malith and Thompson helped Barton Community College win an NJCAA National Championship last spring.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741612293382.jpeg" alt="Myles Thompson and Ring Malith, a pair of graduates from Barton Community College, helped Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville win the Ohio Valley Conference Championship on Saturday, March 8, 2025 to secure a bid to the NCAA D-I Tournament. (Joel Thompson and Abby Thompson also pictured)" />
 <figcaption>Myles Thompson and Ring Malith, a pair of graduates from Barton Community College, helped Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville win the Ohio Valley Conference Championship on Saturday, March 8, 2025 to secure a bid to the NCAA D-I Tournament. (Joel Thompson and Abby Thompson also pictured)</figcaption>
 </figure>From <a href="https://siuecougars.com/index.aspx">siuecougars.com</a>EVANSVILLE, Ind. – SIUE men's basketball captured its first Ohio Valley Conference Tournament Championship, defeating top-seed Southeast Missouri 69-48 at the Ford Center Saturday. The win secures the Cougars' first title and the first-ever trip to the Division I basketball championship.SIUE (22-11) will learn its tournament fate Sun., March 16 when the NCAA Brackets are revealed at 5 p.m. CT.The Cougars held the league's highest scoring team to its lowest point total of the season.The Cougars led by 11 (35-24) at half and withstood a furious run from the Redhawks at the start of the second half. SEMO tied the score at 38 but never overtook the Cougars. The Cougars put the Redhawks away with a 19-2 run.<a href="https://siuecougars.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/ray-sean-taylor/12070">Ray'Sean Taylor</a>&nbsp;led all scorers with 20 points and in the process became SIUE's all-time leading scorer. Taylor now has 1,952 points in his career. Taylor earned Most Valuable Player honors after scoring 24 points in the semifinal.<a href="https://siuecougars.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/ring-malith/12077">Ring Malith</a>&nbsp;(12 points) and&nbsp;<a href="https://siuecougars.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/myles-thompson/12076">Myles Thompson</a>&nbsp;(9 points) joined Taylor on the All-Tournament team.**Both Malith and Thompson helped Barton Community College win an NJCAA National Championship last spring.

Former Barton players secure bid for NCAA D-I Tournament

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Today Sunny, with a high near 81. Breezy, with a southwest wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 40. South southwest wind 8 to 11 mph becoming northwest after midnight.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68. North northeast wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 38. East northeast wind 3 to 6 mph.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 69. Light east northeast wind becoming northeast 5 to 9 mph in the morning.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 75.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 68. Windy.

Friday Night A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35. Breezy.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 54. Breezy.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 62.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 81. Breezy, with a southwest wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 40. South southwest wind 8 to 11 mph becoming northwest after midnight.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 68. North northeast wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 38. East northeast wind 3 to 6 mph.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 69. Light east northeast wind becoming northeast 5 to 9 mph in the morning.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 40.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 75.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52.Friday A 20 percent chance of showers after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 68. Windy.Friday Night A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35. Breezy.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 54. Breezy.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 62.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

A free severe weather training will take place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11 at the Garfield Community Building in Garfield. This training is hosted by the National Weather Service and Pawnee County Emergency Management. The training is open to the public and anyone interested in severe weather is encouraged to attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741017875423.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>A free severe weather training will take place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11 at the Garfield Community Building in Garfield. This training is hosted by the National Weather Service and Pawnee County Emergency Management. The training is open to the public and anyone interested in severe weather is encouraged to attend.

Free severe weather training in Garfield

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By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The master vehicle replacement plan for 2025 for the Great Bend Police
Department includes the replacement of four patrol vehicles. GBPD contacted
Marmie Ford in Great Bend and Superior Emergency Response Vehicles in Andover
to receive quotes for the Ford Interceptors. 

Police Chief Steve Haulmark said
Marmie Ford provided the low bid of $48,000 per vehicle. The Police Department
will still make use of Superior Emergency Response Vehicles for the upfitting.


"Based on the quotes, the price per vehicle, including the upfitting, will be $53,787," said Haulmark. "The total will be $215,148 for the four vehicles. We currently have $190,000 allocated in our budget for vehicle replacement. These funds, combined with the trade-in, will provide us with an overage and ample money to pay for these four vehicles."

Marmie Ford offered the Police Department $38,500 for the trade-in of the four
older vehicles.


The Great Bend City Council approved the purchase with a 6-0 vote.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe master vehicle replacement plan for 2025 for the Great Bend Police
Department includes the replacement of four patrol vehicles. GBPD contacted
Marmie Ford in Great Bend and Superior Emergency Response Vehicles in Andover
to receive quotes for the Ford Interceptors. Police Chief Steve Haulmark said
Marmie Ford provided the low bid of $48,000 per vehicle. The Police Department
will still make use of Superior Emergency Response Vehicles for the upfitting.
"Based on the quotes, the price per vehicle, including the upfitting, will be $53,787," said Haulmark. "The total will be $215,148 for the four vehicles. We currently have $190,000 allocated in our budget for vehicle replacement. These funds, combined with the trade-in, will provide us with an overage and ample money to pay for these four vehicles."Marmie Ford offered the Police Department $38,500 for the trade-in of the four
older vehicles.
The Great Bend City Council approved the purchase with a 6-0 vote.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend approves purchase of 4 new police patrol vehicles

At least week’s USD 428 Board of Education luncheon at Great Bend High School,
high school staff honored the late Kerri Batman for the memorial she left for the
school’s Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) department. 

Batman taught FCS for
more than 30 years at Great Bend High School before she retired for good in
2019. Batman passed away last June, and teacher Cara Negaard showed her
appreciation for the donation at the luncheon.


"Kerri was wonderful," said Negaard. "She was a passionate FCS teacher and huge mentor for myself. I was not that surprised when I got a call saying she wanted our department to have that money specifically for FCS."

Negaard said the FCS department has not spent any large amounts from the
$11,315 memorial as they have purchased a few sewing machines and materials.
There were plaques made to be displayed in the FCS room at the high school,
honoring not just Kerri but her whole family.


"Her whole family supported us," said Negaard. "Kerri was a big part of these meals at the school board luncheons over the years. Her husband was roped into helping with a lot of the food prep. I know there were nights she was up in the middle of the night and her husband was helping her with the smoker. It's the whole Batman family support."

Batman retired the first time in May 2017, but after the next FCS teacher
lasted just a semester, Batman returned to the classroom to finish out the 2018
school year. The same thing happened in 2019 before Batman retired for good.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741112686402.jpeg" alt="The late Kerri Batman (left) and Cara Negaard at Batman's retirement reception at Great Bend High School in 2017. A memorial for Batman raised more than $11,000 for the school's Family and Consumer Sciences department." />
 <figcaption>The late Kerri Batman (left) and Cara Negaard at Batman's retirement reception at Great Bend High School in 2017. A memorial for Batman raised more than $11,000 for the school's Family and Consumer Sciences department.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt least week’s USD 428 Board of Education luncheon at Great Bend High School,
high school staff honored the late Kerri Batman for the memorial she left for the
school’s Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) department. Batman taught FCS for
more than 30 years at Great Bend High School before she retired for good in
2019. Batman passed away last June, and teacher Cara Negaard showed her
appreciation for the donation at the luncheon.
"Kerri was wonderful," said Negaard. "She was a passionate FCS teacher and huge mentor for myself. I was not that surprised when I got a call saying she wanted our department to have that money specifically for FCS."Negaard said the FCS department has not spent any large amounts from the
$11,315 memorial as they have purchased a few sewing machines and materials.
There were plaques made to be displayed in the FCS room at the high school,
honoring not just Kerri but her whole family.
"Her whole family supported us," said Negaard. "Kerri was a big part of these meals at the school board luncheons over the years. Her husband was roped into helping with a lot of the food prep. I know there were nights she was up in the middle of the night and her husband was helping her with the smoker. It's the whole Batman family support."Batman retired the first time in May 2017, but after the next FCS teacher
lasted just a semester, Batman returned to the classroom to finish out the 2018
school year. The same thing happened in 2019 before Batman retired for good.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend HS honors former teacher Batman’s donation

In 2021, Barton County allocated $630,000 for Façade Improvement Grants.
The grants were designed to assist business owners in updating their building’s
physical appearance. In 2023, the county directed $250,000 for the grants.


Barton County Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson stated the initiative was well
received among the business community.


"What we did was incentivize something we wanted to see happen," said Hutchinson. "We wanted to see the downtowns get refreshed. They were starting to look kind of bad. We put it in the private sector's hands and then we got out of the way. The more we can do something like that, we'll always be successful."

Through all of the projects, 43 local contractors were utilized. The total
investment, including what the county paid out and the business’ match, was just
over $1.7 million.


For 2025, Barton County has pledged $120,000 for the façade projects in
Claflin, Ellinwood, Hoisington and Great Bend. The Commission has invited those
cities to provide financial support to increase the dollar amount available for
projects.


"What we're trying to do is figure out what this might look like going forward with the partnership from the different cities," said Hutchinson. "It can look very different in Claflin then it does in Ellinwood, for instance. Partnering with the cities, and putting them more in the driver's seat for what their specific needs are, is going to be key for continuing this project in the future."

The Commission and other county officials will meet with council members of
those city governments on Thursday, March 6 at 4 p.m. at the
Historic Wolf Hotel in Ellinwood. During the meeting, the Commission will
review program requirements for the Façade Improvement program.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Commission presented Hutchinson a plaque thanking him for his initiative to help get the Facade Improvement program started.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741116706419.jpeg" alt="Keller Real Estate &amp; Insurance, at 1101 Williams in Great Bend, was a recipient of the Barton County Facade Improvement Grants." />
 <figcaption>Keller Real Estate &amp; Insurance, at 1101 Williams in Great Bend, was a recipient of the Barton County Facade Improvement Grants.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn 2021, Barton County allocated $630,000 for Façade Improvement Grants.
The grants were designed to assist business owners in updating their building’s
physical appearance. In 2023, the county directed $250,000 for the grants.
Barton County Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson stated the initiative was well
received among the business community.
"What we did was incentivize something we wanted to see happen," said Hutchinson. "We wanted to see the downtowns get refreshed. They were starting to look kind of bad. We put it in the private sector's hands and then we got out of the way. The more we can do something like that, we'll always be successful."Through all of the projects, 43 local contractors were utilized. The total
investment, including what the county paid out and the business’ match, was just
over $1.7 million.
For 2025, Barton County has pledged $120,000 for the façade projects in
Claflin, Ellinwood, Hoisington and Great Bend. The Commission has invited those
cities to provide financial support to increase the dollar amount available for
projects.
"What we're trying to do is figure out what this might look like going forward with the partnership from the different cities," said Hutchinson. "It can look very different in Claflin then it does in Ellinwood, for instance. Partnering with the cities, and putting them more in the driver's seat for what their specific needs are, is going to be key for continuing this project in the future."The Commission and other county officials will meet with council members of
those city governments on Thursday, March 6 at 4 p.m. at the
Historic Wolf Hotel in Ellinwood. During the meeting, the Commission will
review program requirements for the Façade Improvement program.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The Commission presented Hutchinson a plaque thanking him for his initiative to help get the Facade Improvement program started.

Barton Co. looking for city input on next round of façade grants

Housing Opportunities, Inc. is excited to announce the upcoming construction of Flintwood, a new affordable housing development designed to meet the needs of local seniors in Russell. This much-needed development is made possible through the collaboration between both the City of Russell and Russell County alongside HOI. Both branches of local government greatly supported Flintwood’s development by providing the land and working together to secure funding for the street infrastructure. The project will feature 24 two-bedroom, one-bathroom duplex units for residents aged 55 and older. Flintwood will also include a community room, offering a shared space for social activities and events, fostering a sense of community among tenants.

The project is funded through Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and HOME Funds provided by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC). HOI will serve as both the owner and property manager of the development, with construction expected to begin in early summer.

"We are thrilled to partner with Housing Opportunities, Inc. to bring this new housing to Russell," said Kayla Schneider, Russell City Manager. "This development is a significant step toward providing quality, affordable housing for our senior residents, and we look forward to seeing it come to life."

Mike Parsons, Russell County Economic Development, added “Housing is a top objective of the office’s strategic plan, and this project demonstrates the value of public/private partnerships and the coordinated initiatives between the County and City of Russell. I appreciate HOI’s investment in the community and our leaderships willingness to pool resources and services to make this project a success.”

Callie Miller, Executive Director of Housing Opportunities, Inc., added, "We are proud to be part of this collaboration and to bring Flintwood to the Russell community. Our mission has always been to ensure that Kansans have access to affordable housing, and this project will give seniors in Russell a comfortable, supportive place to call home."

Housing Opportunities, Inc. is a nonprofit organization committed to providing safe, affordable, quality housing to families and individuals across Kansas. With a focus on addressing housing shortages in rural communities, the organization specializes in creating homes that support long-term stability and well-being for residents.

For more information, please contact Housing Opportunities, Inc. at 620-792-3299.

Housing Opportunities, Inc. is excited to announce the upcoming construction of Flintwood, a new affordable housing development designed to meet the needs of local seniors in Russell. This much-needed development is made possible through the collaboration between both the City of Russell and Russell County alongside HOI. Both branches of local government greatly supported Flintwood’s development by providing the land and working together to secure funding for the street infrastructure. The project will feature 24 two-bedroom, one-bathroom duplex units for residents aged 55 and older. Flintwood will also include a community room, offering a shared space for social activities and events, fostering a sense of community among tenants.The project is funded through Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and HOME Funds provided by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC). HOI will serve as both the owner and property manager of the development, with construction expected to begin in early summer."We are thrilled to partner with Housing Opportunities, Inc. to bring this new housing to Russell," said Kayla Schneider, Russell City Manager. "This development is a significant step toward providing quality, affordable housing for our senior residents, and we look forward to seeing it come to life."Mike Parsons, Russell County Economic Development, added “Housing is a top objective of the office’s strategic plan, and this project demonstrates the value of public/private partnerships and the coordinated initiatives between the County and City of Russell. I appreciate HOI’s investment in the community and our leaderships willingness to pool resources and services to make this project a success.”Callie Miller, Executive Director of Housing Opportunities, Inc., added, "We are proud to be part of this collaboration and to bring Flintwood to the Russell community. Our mission has always been to ensure that Kansans have access to affordable housing, and this project will give seniors in Russell a comfortable, supportive place to call home."Housing Opportunities, Inc. is a nonprofit organization committed to providing safe, affordable, quality housing to families and individuals across Kansas. With a focus on addressing housing shortages in rural communities, the organization specializes in creating homes that support long-term stability and well-being for residents.For more information, please contact Housing Opportunities, Inc. at 620-792-3299.

HOI to launch housing development for seniors in Russell

The Barton County Conservation District and the Cottonwood Extension District will host a Prescribed Burn Association (PBA) formation meeting for Barton County and the surrounding area. The meeting will be at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18 at the Great Bend office of the Cottonwood Extension District.

Attendees will hear from leaders of a neighboring county PBA about considerations and a timeline involved in forming a PBA.

This meeting is a follow up to the brush management workshop “Keeping Grass Grass” presented in January by the conservation district and the extension district at the Hoisington Activity Center.

What is a Prescribed Burn? Prescribed burning is a safe, effective land management tool used to restore ecosystems, manage vegetation, and reduce fire hazards. It’s an important practice for maintaining healthy landscapes and preventing wildfires.

Prescribed burn associations are driven by volunteer member landowners who assist one another in planning and implementing a burn according to guidelines provided by conservation agencies. Through an association, access to equipment and training are facilitated, and it allows a landowner to show due diligence has been followed.

Meeting Details: 📅 Date: March 18, 2025 ⏰ Time: 4 p.m. 📍 Location: Great Bend office of the Cottonwood Extension Agency (or, if not available, the USDA conference room at 10th and Patton) 📝 RSVP: Barton County Conservation District 620-792-3346 ext. 303

· Gain valuable knowledge and resources to safely incorporate prescribed burning into your land management plan.

· Learn from experts and network with local landowners and professionals who share your goals.

· Discover how to collaborate with the Prescribed Burn Association for assistance with equipment and burn planning.

Together, we can work to protect and restore our land while preventing the dangers of uncontrolled wildfires.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Veronica at the Barton County Conservation District, 620-792-3346 ext. 303.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<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>The Barton County Conservation District and the Cottonwood Extension District will host a Prescribed Burn Association (PBA) formation meeting for Barton County and the surrounding area. The meeting will be at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18 at the Great Bend office of the Cottonwood Extension District.Attendees will hear from leaders of a neighboring county PBA about considerations and a timeline involved in forming a PBA.This meeting is a follow up to the brush management workshop “Keeping Grass Grass” presented in January by the conservation district and the extension district at the Hoisington Activity Center.What is a Prescribed Burn? Prescribed burning is a safe, effective land management tool used to restore ecosystems, manage vegetation, and reduce fire hazards. It’s an important practice for maintaining healthy landscapes and preventing wildfires.Prescribed burn associations are driven by volunteer member landowners who assist one another in planning and implementing a burn according to guidelines provided by conservation agencies. Through an association, access to equipment and training are facilitated, and it allows a landowner to show due diligence has been followed.Meeting Details: 📅 Date: March 18, 2025 ⏰ Time: 4 p.m. 📍 Location: Great Bend office of the Cottonwood Extension Agency (or, if not available, the USDA conference room at 10th and Patton) 📝 RSVP: Barton County Conservation District 620-792-3346 ext. 303Why Attend?· Gain valuable knowledge and resources to safely incorporate prescribed burning into your land management plan.· Learn from experts and network with local landowners and professionals who share your goals.· Discover how to collaborate with the Prescribed Burn Association for assistance with equipment and burn planning.Together, we can work to protect and restore our land while preventing the dangers of uncontrolled wildfires.For more information or to RSVP, contact Veronica at the Barton County Conservation District, 620-792-3346 ext. 303.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Meeting for prescribed burns

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Feb. 19, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

Douglas ‑&nbsp;24‑23 KA‑6793‑01 ‑ U.S. 24/U.S. 40/U.S. 59 junction, traffic signals, J Warren Company Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $559,133.77.

Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 N‑0772‑01 ‑ 158th Street, from Sheridan Place to Parallel Road and Parallel Road from just east of 159th Street to 156th Street in Basehor, grading and surfacing, 1.0 mile, Mcanany Construction Inc., Shawnee, Kansas, $4,493,964.25.

Nemaha ‑&nbsp;66 C‑5287‑01 ‑ County bridge, over stream located 0.5 mile south and 1.5 miles east of Kelly, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $717,842.14.

Wabaunsee ‑&nbsp;30‑99 KA‑3920‑01 ‑ K‑30, bridge #070 located 1.22 miles north of the I‑70/K‑30 junction, bridge replacement, WCI, Inc., Paola, Kansas, $409,677.50.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;435‑105 KA‑6963‑01 ‑ I‑435, Connor Creek Drainage culvert #523 located 0.30 mile north of the K‑5 south junction in Kansas City, culvert, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $208,631.17.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;5‑105 KA‑6826‑01 ‑ K‑5, bridge #193 over the Union Pacific Railroad and Levee Road located 0.52 mile west of U.S. 69, bridge deck, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $12,540,296.53.

Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;435‑105 KA‑6965‑01 ‑ I‑435, bridges #202 and #203 in Edwardsville and #221, #223, #227, #236 and #254 in Kansas City, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $7,165,880.24.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7661‑01 ‑ Multiple locations in northeast Kansas, rumble strip installation, 34.8 miles, Surface Preparation Technologies LLC, New Kingstown, Pennsylvania, $135,793.50.

Marion ‑&nbsp;56‑57 KA‑7384‑01 – U.S. 56, bridge #045 located 0.83 mile east of K‑256, bridge repair, Highway Heavy Repair LLC, Rogers, Minnesota, $232,987.30.

Morris ‑&nbsp;177‑64 KA‑6017‑01 ‑ K‑177, from 0.09 mile north of South 850 Road north to Velie Street in Council Grove, grading and surfacing, 3.4 miles, Bob Bergkamp Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $9,565,562.46.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;82‑106 KA‑7656‑01 ‑ K‑82 in Clay County, beginning at the K‑82/K‑15 junction east to the Clay/Riley county line; and K‑82 in Riley County, beginning at the west Clay/Riley county line east to the K‑82/U.S. 77 junction, milling and overlay, 10.7 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $2,394,797.75.

Rawlins ‑&nbsp;25‑77 KA‑6737‑02 ‑ K‑25, from the junction K‑25/U.S. 36 north to the Kansas/Nebraska state line, guard fence, 13.2 miles, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $1,213,461.20.

Anderson ‑&nbsp;59‑2 KA‑5566‑01 – U.S. 59, U.S. 59/U.S. 169 junction, intersection improvement, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $5,873,443.09.

Bourbon ‑&nbsp;7‑6 KA‑5804‑01 ‑ K‑7, from the Crawford/Bourbon county line north to 0.4 mile southwest of U.S. 69 (includes Little Pawnee Creek Drainage bridge #030), grading, bridge and surfacing, 10.3 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $16,985,660.67.

Crawford ‑&nbsp;146‑19 KA‑6788‑01 ‑ K‑146, culvert within city limits of Walnut located 1.1 miles east of the Neosho/Crawford county line, culvert, Mission Construction Co. Inc., St. Paul, Kansas, $264,985.60.

Crawford ‑&nbsp;7‑19 KA‑5803‑02 ‑ K‑7, from 0.96 mile north of West 700th Avenue north to the Bourbon/Crawford county line, grading, bridge and surfacing, 2.0 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $3,436,801.05.

Greenwood ‑&nbsp;400‑37 KA‑6594‑02 ‑ U.S. 400, from the east K‑99/U.S. 400 junction east to the Greenwood/Wilson county line, guard fence, 15.2 miles, Barkley Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $1,181,074.53.

Montgomery ‑&nbsp;160‑63 KA‑6958‑01 ‑ U.S. 160, bridge #066 over Big Hill Creek located 1.99 miles east of U.S. 169, bridge repair, Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Wichita, Kansas, $1,758,619.64.

Statewide ‑&nbsp;58‑106 KA‑7570‑01 ‑ K‑58 in Coffey County, from the west city limits of LeRoy east to the Coffey/Anderson county line; and K‑58 in Anderson county, from the Coffey/Anderson county line east to the U.S. 169/K‑58 junction, milling and overlay, 13.9 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,343,257.50.

Reno ‑&nbsp;50‑78 KA‑7569‑01 – U.S. 50, from the Stafford/Reno county line east to South Sego Road, milling and overlay, 16.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $3,853,521.82.

Finney ‑&nbsp;156‑28 KA‑6729‑01 ‑ K‑156, bridge #005 over Pawnee River located 6.33 miles west of the K‑23 west junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads, LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $899,395.94.

Finney ‑&nbsp;50‑28 KA‑7462‑01 – U.S. 50, from the Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) west of Holcomb east to end of 4-lane, pavement patching, 8.4 miles, RA Knapp Construction Inc., Lenexa, Kansas, $5,177,712.10.

Ford ‑&nbsp;56‑29 KA‑7623‑01 – U.S. 56, intersection of East Wyatt Earp Boulevard/U.S. 56/U.S. 283 in Dodge City, overlay, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $770,590.00.

Ness ‑&nbsp;96‑68 KA‑6609‑02 ‑ K‑96, from the east city limits of Ness City east to the Ness/Rush county line, guard fence, 16.9 miles, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas,&nbsp;$6,563,044.01.

The following projects were approved from the Jan. 22, 2025, letting.

McPherson ‑&nbsp;59 TE‑0493‑02 – Northview Road in McPherson, from Main Street to East Veranda Circle; and from Main Street to Grimes Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.7 mile, Barkley Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $1,258,117.15.

Coffey ‑&nbsp;75‑16 KA‑7545‑01 – U.S. 74, beginning 0.96 mile south of the north city limits of Burlington north to 0.135 mile north of the I‑35/U.S. 75 junction, milling and overlay, 16.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,443,542.86.

Labette ‑&nbsp;50 TE‑0530‑01 ‑ Tolen Creek in Parsons, from Cattle Drive to Walmart (parallel to U.S. 59), pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.5 mile, J Graham Construction Inc., Coffeyville, Kansas, $449,385.10.

Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;87 TE‑0519‑01 – In Garden Plain, Harry Street/15th Avenue, from Doyle Street to Section Line Road; and Main Street, from baseball field entrance 0.06 mile south of Abel Avenue to Harry Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.6 mile, Barkley Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $300,263.00.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Feb. 19, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.District One — NortheastDouglas ‑&nbsp;24‑23 KA‑6793‑01 ‑ U.S. 24/U.S. 40/U.S. 59 junction, traffic signals, J Warren Company Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $559,133.77.Leavenworth ‑&nbsp;52 N‑0772‑01 ‑ 158th Street, from Sheridan Place to Parallel Road and Parallel Road from just east of 159th Street to 156th Street in Basehor, grading and surfacing, 1.0 mile, Mcanany Construction Inc., Shawnee, Kansas, $4,493,964.25.Nemaha ‑&nbsp;66 C‑5287‑01 ‑ County bridge, over stream located 0.5 mile south and 1.5 miles east of Kelly, bridge replacement, 0.1 mile, Bridges Inc., Newton, Kansas, $717,842.14.Wabaunsee ‑&nbsp;30‑99 KA‑3920‑01 ‑ K‑30, bridge #070 located 1.22 miles north of the I‑70/K‑30 junction, bridge replacement, WCI, Inc., Paola, Kansas, $409,677.50.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;435‑105 KA‑6963‑01 ‑ I‑435, Connor Creek Drainage culvert #523 located 0.30 mile north of the K‑5 south junction in Kansas City, culvert, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $208,631.17.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;5‑105 KA‑6826‑01 ‑ K‑5, bridge #193 over the Union Pacific Railroad and Levee Road located 0.52 mile west of U.S. 69, bridge deck, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $12,540,296.53.Wyandotte ‑&nbsp;435‑105 KA‑6965‑01 ‑ I‑435, bridges #202 and #203 in Edwardsville and #221, #223, #227, #236 and #254 in Kansas City, bridge repair, Comanche Construction Inc., Olathe, Kansas, $7,165,880.24.Statewide ‑&nbsp;106 KA‑7661‑01 ‑ Multiple locations in northeast Kansas, rumble strip installation, 34.8 miles, Surface Preparation Technologies LLC, New Kingstown, Pennsylvania, $135,793.50.District Two — North CentralMarion ‑&nbsp;56‑57 KA‑7384‑01 – U.S. 56, bridge #045 located 0.83 mile east of K‑256, bridge repair, Highway Heavy Repair LLC, Rogers, Minnesota, $232,987.30.Morris ‑&nbsp;177‑64 KA‑6017‑01 ‑ K‑177, from 0.09 mile north of South 850 Road north to Velie Street in Council Grove, grading and surfacing, 3.4 miles, Bob Bergkamp Construction Co. Inc., Wichita, Kansas, $9,565,562.46.Statewide ‑&nbsp;82‑106 KA‑7656‑01 ‑ K‑82 in Clay County, beginning at the K‑82/K‑15 junction east to the Clay/Riley county line; and K‑82 in Riley County, beginning at the west Clay/Riley county line east to the K‑82/U.S. 77 junction, milling and overlay, 10.7 miles, Shilling Construction Co. Inc., Manhattan, Kansas, $2,394,797.75.District Three — NorthwestRawlins ‑&nbsp;25‑77 KA‑6737‑02 ‑ K‑25, from the junction K‑25/U.S. 36 north to the Kansas/Nebraska state line, guard fence, 13.2 miles, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $1,213,461.20.District Four — SoutheastAnderson ‑&nbsp;59‑2 KA‑5566‑01 – U.S. 59, U.S. 59/U.S. 169 junction, intersection improvement, Clarkson Construction Company, Kansas City, Missouri, $5,873,443.09.Bourbon ‑&nbsp;7‑6 KA‑5804‑01 ‑ K‑7, from the Crawford/Bourbon county line north to 0.4 mile southwest of U.S. 69 (includes Little Pawnee Creek Drainage bridge #030), grading, bridge and surfacing, 10.3 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $16,985,660.67.Crawford ‑&nbsp;146‑19 KA‑6788‑01 ‑ K‑146, culvert within city limits of Walnut located 1.1 miles east of the Neosho/Crawford county line, culvert, Mission Construction Co. Inc., St. Paul, Kansas, $264,985.60.Crawford ‑&nbsp;7‑19 KA‑5803‑02 ‑ K‑7, from 0.96 mile north of West 700th Avenue north to the Bourbon/Crawford county line, grading, bridge and surfacing, 2.0 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $3,436,801.05.Greenwood ‑&nbsp;400‑37 KA‑6594‑02 ‑ U.S. 400, from the east K‑99/U.S. 400 junction east to the Greenwood/Wilson county line, guard fence, 15.2 miles, Barkley Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $1,181,074.53.Montgomery ‑&nbsp;160‑63 KA‑6958‑01 ‑ U.S. 160, bridge #066 over Big Hill Creek located 1.99 miles east of U.S. 169, bridge repair, Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. &amp; Subsidiaries, Wichita, Kansas, $1,758,619.64.Statewide ‑&nbsp;58‑106 KA‑7570‑01 ‑ K‑58 in Coffey County, from the west city limits of LeRoy east to the Coffey/Anderson county line; and K‑58 in Anderson county, from the Coffey/Anderson county line east to the U.S. 169/K‑58 junction, milling and overlay, 13.9 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $2,343,257.50.District Five — South CentralReno ‑&nbsp;50‑78 KA‑7569‑01 – U.S. 50, from the Stafford/Reno county line east to South Sego Road, milling and overlay, 16.9 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $3,853,521.82.District Six — SouthwestFinney ‑&nbsp;156‑28 KA‑6729‑01 ‑ K‑156, bridge #005 over Pawnee River located 6.33 miles west of the K‑23 west junction, bridge repair, PCI Roads, LLC, Saint Michael, Minnesota, $899,395.94.Finney ‑&nbsp;50‑28 KA‑7462‑01 – U.S. 50, from the Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP) west of Holcomb east to end of 4-lane, pavement patching, 8.4 miles, RA Knapp Construction Inc., Lenexa, Kansas, $5,177,712.10.Ford ‑&nbsp;56‑29 KA‑7623‑01 – U.S. 56, intersection of East Wyatt Earp Boulevard/U.S. 56/U.S. 283 in Dodge City, overlay, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $770,590.00.Ness ‑&nbsp;96‑68 KA‑6609‑02 ‑ K‑96, from the east city limits of Ness City east to the Ness/Rush county line, guard fence, 16.9 miles, Klaver Construction Company Inc., Wichita, Kansas,&nbsp;$6,563,044.01.The following projects were approved from the Jan. 22, 2025, letting.McPherson ‑&nbsp;59 TE‑0493‑02 – Northview Road in McPherson, from Main Street to East Veranda Circle; and from Main Street to Grimes Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.7 mile, Barkley Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $1,258,117.15.Coffey ‑&nbsp;75‑16 KA‑7545‑01 – U.S. 74, beginning 0.96 mile south of the north city limits of Burlington north to 0.135 mile north of the I‑35/U.S. 75 junction, milling and overlay, 16.5 miles, Bettis Asphalt &amp; Construction Inc., Topeka, Kansas, $3,443,542.86.Labette ‑&nbsp;50 TE‑0530‑01 ‑ Tolen Creek in Parsons, from Cattle Drive to Walmart (parallel to U.S. 59), pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.5 mile, J Graham Construction Inc., Coffeyville, Kansas, $449,385.10.Sedgwick ‑&nbsp;87 TE‑0519‑01 – In Garden Plain, Harry Street/15th Avenue, from Doyle Street to Section Line Road; and Main Street, from baseball field entrance 0.06 mile south of Abel Avenue to Harry Street, pedestrian and bicycle paths, 0.6 mile, Barkley Construction LLC, Wichita, Kansas, $300,263.00.

KDOT announces approved February bids

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/4)

At 8:05 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 20 Avenue
&amp; NE 120 Road in Hoisington.

At 3:54 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at S. US 281
Highway &amp; SE 70 Road.

At 5:22 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 127 on
N. US 281 Highway in Hoisington.

Great Bend Police Department
incident log (3/4)

At 7:14 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1810
Hubbard.

At 8:27 a.m. a battery case was reported at 3907 Broadway.

At 11:59 a.m. an accident was reported in the 3500 block of
10th Street.

At 2:52 p.m. officers responded to a driving complaint that
occurred outside the city limits at MM 208 E. US 56 Highway.

At 3:11 p.m. officers responded to a down power line in the
1600 block of Van Buren Street.

At 4:10 p.m. a dog at large was reported at 2208 29th
Street.

At 6:05 p.m. a subject in the store yelling was reported at
Verizon Wireless, 3407 10th Street. Alan Wilkerson was contacted and
trespassed for 10 days.

At 6:55 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2540 16th
Street.

At 11:29 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/4)Cattle OutAt 8:05 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 20 Avenue
&amp; NE 120 Road in Hoisington.At 3:54 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at S. US 281
Highway &amp; SE 70 Road.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:22 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 127 on
N. US 281 Highway in Hoisington.Great Bend Police Department
incident log (3/4)Animal ComplaintAt 7:14 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1810
Hubbard.BatteryAt 8:27 a.m. a battery case was reported at 3907 Broadway.Non-Injury AccidentAt 11:59 a.m. an accident was reported in the 3500 block of
10th Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 2:52 p.m. officers responded to a driving complaint that
occurred outside the city limits at MM 208 E. US 56 Highway.Utility ProblemsAt 3:11 p.m. officers responded to a down power line in the
1600 block of Van Buren Street.Animal Complaint At 4:10 p.m. a dog at large was reported at 2208 29th
Street.Remove SubjectAt 6:05 p.m. a subject in the store yelling was reported at
Verizon Wireless, 3407 10th Street. Alan Wilkerson was contacted and
trespassed for 10 days.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 6:55 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2540 16th
Street.Noise ComplaintAt 11:29 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.

Cop Shop (3/4)

BOOKED: David D. Button on Barton County District Court case for serve sentence, no bond.

RELEASED: Hipolito Delgado on BCDC warrant for probation violation to immigration and customs enforcement.

RELEASED: Santia C. Henderson on BCDC case for introduction of contraband, possession of a controlled substance, theft and resisting arrest after posting $40,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: David D. Button on Barton County District Court case for serve sentence, no bond.RELEASED: Hipolito Delgado on BCDC warrant for probation violation to immigration and customs enforcement.RELEASED: Santia C. Henderson on BCDC case for introduction of contraband, possession of a controlled substance, theft and resisting arrest after posting $40,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/4)

Barton’s Shafer Art Gallery will open its “Vortex Day,” art show March 10 featuring a variety of 2D and 3D pieces from local high school artists from across the region.

The exhibit is the keystone event of&nbsp;“Vortex Day,” which will take place on March 26 and will go from 9 a.m.&nbsp;to&nbsp;1:30 p.m. It will include fine arts workshops taught by Barton faculty and concludes with an award show for the exhibit judged by sci-fi ceramics guest artist John Hamilton.

The exhibit will run through March 26. The Shafer Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free. For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Community Engagement Coordinator Richard Lartz at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:shafergallery@bartonccc.edu">shafergallery@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9242.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741108969435.jpeg" alt="Poster artwork is titled "Lazer Loser" by Emma Brackbill." />
 <figcaption>Poster artwork is titled "Lazer Loser" by Emma Brackbill.</figcaption>
 </figure>Barton’s Shafer Art Gallery will open its “Vortex Day,” art show March 10 featuring a variety of 2D and 3D pieces from local high school artists from across the region.The exhibit is the keystone event of&nbsp;“Vortex Day,” which will take place on March 26 and will go from 9 a.m.&nbsp;to&nbsp;1:30 p.m. It will include fine arts workshops taught by Barton faculty and concludes with an award show for the exhibit judged by sci-fi ceramics guest artist John Hamilton.The exhibit will run through March 26. The Shafer Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free. For more information, contact Shafer Gallery Community Engagement Coordinator Richard Lartz at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:shafergallery@bartonccc.edu">shafergallery@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9242.

Exhibit featuring local high school art opens at Shafer Gallery

A groundbreaking ceremony for the IGNITE Innovation Center in Great Bend
took place this past December. Following multiple cold snaps since, Great Bend Economic
Development Director Sara Arnberger said foundation work will begin in the next
few weeks since the ground is no longer frozen.


With the purpose of providing vocational tools and several amenities for
aspiring entrepreneurs, the project has an estimated budget of $7 million.
Arnberger said funding for the structure is getting closer to completion.


"To be fully funded for everything we want as far as equipment, we're about $1.5 million off," said Arnberger. "Just to get it build and have the startup equipment we're about $500,000 to $600,000 off. I'm chipping away."

The Innovation Center, to be located at the south side of the 10th
Street and K-96 Highway intersection, will include a makerspace with 3D
printers, flight simulators and welders. A commercial kitchen, farm pod,
computer lab, meeting room and podcast studio will be also be available. Two
childcare rooms will be included for after-hours and even overnight childcare
services for those parents and guardians working late shifts.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d5cea78f-d774-4554-8460-609197ebf93a">RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Great Bend Innovation Center - details on what it is and uses</a>

Great Bend Economic Development hopes to have the Innovation Center constructed
by the end of 2025.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722906031456.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA groundbreaking ceremony for the IGNITE Innovation Center in Great Bend
took place this past December. Following multiple cold snaps since, Great Bend Economic
Development Director Sara Arnberger said foundation work will begin in the next
few weeks since the ground is no longer frozen.
With the purpose of providing vocational tools and several amenities for
aspiring entrepreneurs, the project has an estimated budget of $7 million.
Arnberger said funding for the structure is getting closer to completion.
"To be fully funded for everything we want as far as equipment, we're about $1.5 million off," said Arnberger. "Just to get it build and have the startup equipment we're about $500,000 to $600,000 off. I'm chipping away."The Innovation Center, to be located at the south side of the 10th
Street and K-96 Highway intersection, will include a makerspace with 3D
printers, flight simulators and welders. A commercial kitchen, farm pod,
computer lab, meeting room and podcast studio will be also be available. Two
childcare rooms will be included for after-hours and even overnight childcare
services for those parents and guardians working late shifts.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d5cea78f-d774-4554-8460-609197ebf93a">RELATED STORY:&nbsp;Great Bend Innovation Center - details on what it is and uses</a>Great Bend Economic Development hopes to have the Innovation Center constructed
by the end of 2025.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

‘Chipping away’ at needed funding for Great Bend Innovation Center

WASHINGTON —Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation are sharing their thoughts on President Trump's address to Congress.

Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann wrote on social media, "America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage.

 I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept. 

Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "In his first address to Congress in his second term, President Trump highlighted his America First policies that Americans overwhelmingly voted for in November and that congressional Republicans are working hard to advance," said Rep. Estes. 

"We are renewing the American Dream, and the president’s victories have been evident through record-low illegal border crossings, the reduction of governmental waste and fraud with the help of DOGE, and new investments in our country. I support President Trump’s efforts to restore America’s economy and make our nation secure and competitive once again, and I look forward to continuing to deliver on his bold agenda that will benefit all Kansans."

Kansas 2nd District Rep. Derek Schmidt wrote,&nbsp;“After four years of weakness, strength is back in the White House and President Trump is already delivering on his promise of a safe and prosperous nation for the American people. House Republicans are moving quickly and decisively to implement the President’s America First agenda by passing legislation to secure the border, restore energy independence, shrink the size of government, and curb the runaway federal spending that has fueled inflation. We’re slashing red tape, taking power back from unelected bureaucrats, and working hard every day to make the changes Kansans expect us to make.”

WASHINGTON —Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation are sharing their thoughts on President Trump's address to Congress.Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann wrote on social media, "America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage. I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept.… <a href="https://t.co/bBWCxBsiH5">pic.twitter.com/bBWCxBsiH5</a>&mdash; Tracey Mann (@RepMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMann/status/1897152308666097785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept. Thank you, President Trump!Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "In his first address to Congress in his second term, President Trump highlighted his America First policies that Americans overwhelmingly voted for in November and that congressional Republicans are working hard to advance," said Rep. Estes. "We are renewing the American Dream, and the president’s victories have been evident through record-low illegal border crossings, the reduction of governmental waste and fraud with the help of DOGE, and new investments in our country. I support President Trump’s efforts to restore America’s economy and make our nation secure and competitive once again, and I look forward to continuing to deliver on his bold agenda that will benefit all Kansans."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> has brought common sense back to the White House.&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1897114382225826239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">America is the strongest country in the world. After four years of weakness, we once again have a President who acts like it.&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1897125228536643778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas 2nd District Rep. Derek Schmidt wrote,&nbsp;“After four years of weakness, strength is back in the White House and President Trump is already delivering on his promise of a safe and prosperous nation for the American people. House Republicans are moving quickly and decisively to implement the President’s America First agenda by passing legislation to secure the border, restore energy independence, shrink the size of government, and curb the runaway federal spending that has fueled inflation. We’re slashing red tape, taking power back from unelected bureaucrats, and working hard every day to make the changes Kansans expect us to make.”

🎥Kansas First District Rep. on Trump's address to Congress

News from the Oil Patch, Mar. 4 John P. Tretbar

NYMEX crude futures prices dropped more than a dollar Monday, with the April contract for light sweet crude ending the day at sixty-eight thirty-seven ($68.37) per barrel, the lowest settlement price since early December. Prices were another dollar lower in morning trading Tuesday. WTI was trading below $67 a barrel while London Brent hovered a few cents over $70.Crude production in the United States returned to the top ten last week. The Energy Information Administration reports output of 13,502,000 barrels per day, the best weekly report since early January and the ninth-highest tally ever.

EIA reports commercial crude inventories are down more than two million barrels to just over 430 million as of February 21. That's the first weekly decline in stockpiles in a month. Inventories are down about four percent from a year ago and about four percent below the five-year seasonal average.

The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 54 new intent-to-drill notices across Kansas in February, or 119 so far this year, compared to 144 through February last year. Regulators report four new intents in Stafford County, which makes six so far this year. Finney County adds three intents, or 12 so far this year.

Kansas regulators approved eight new drilling permits last week, all in Western Kansas, including three in Stafford County and two in Finney County. Kansas Operators completed 19 wells last week, with nine in eastern Kansas, and ten west of Wichita, including two in Barton County and one in Ellis County. &nbsp;Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 15 active drilling rigs in Kansas, with four in the eastern half of the state, which is up one from a week ago, and eleven in Western Kansas, a weekly increase of two rigs. That's a 25% increase for the week, but it's down nearly 12% from last month and more than 21% lower than a year ago. Drilling was underway on a lease in Barton County, and four new wells in Finney County.

The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up one gas rig but down two rigs drilling for oil. The breakout for horizontal drilling was up three. The tally in Texas is up two rigs, while Louisiana is down by one.

The government reports crude oil imports of 5.9 million barrels a day last week, up 98,000 barrels a day from the week before. Crude imports are down about 3,000 barrels a day from the four-week average. Crude exports averaged nearly 4.2 million barrels a day last week, down more than a thousand barrels from the four week average. The US is a net petroleum exporter thanks to product exports of more than five million barrels a day.

Two energy providers in Oklahoma set the stage for a massive civil lawsuit over Winter Storm Uri. Two firms accused in Oklahoma of fraud and price fixing during the storm three years ago are denying the allegations. The filings set the stage for a massive discovery process and civil trial. Last month, an Osage County judge denied a motion to dismiss or move the case. Symmetry Energy and a group referred to as Enable Entities have now filed court documents denying wrongdoing. The Oklahoma Attorney General's lawsuit accuses the companies of manipulating natural gas supplies before and during the storm. They're accused of denying access in Oklahoma to natural gas supplies and instead selling those supplies for a huge markup on the spot market.

ConocoPhillips will sell its interests in the Gulf of Mexico Ursa and Europa fields to Shell for $735 million, both companies confirmed today. Analysts say ConocoPhillips continues to divest non-core assets, while Shell hopes to strengthen its deep water portfolio.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch, Mar. 4 John P. TretbarNYMEX crude futures prices dropped more than a dollar Monday, with the April contract for light sweet crude ending the day at sixty-eight thirty-seven ($68.37) per barrel, the lowest settlement price since early December. Prices were another dollar lower in morning trading Tuesday. WTI was trading below $67 a barrel while London Brent hovered a few cents over $70.Crude production in the United States returned to the top ten last week. The Energy Information Administration reports output of 13,502,000 barrels per day, the best weekly report since early January and the ninth-highest tally ever.EIA reports commercial crude inventories are down more than two million barrels to just over 430 million as of February 21. That's the first weekly decline in stockpiles in a month. Inventories are down about four percent from a year ago and about four percent below the five-year seasonal average.The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 54 new intent-to-drill notices across Kansas in February, or 119 so far this year, compared to 144 through February last year. Regulators report four new intents in Stafford County, which makes six so far this year. Finney County adds three intents, or 12 so far this year.Kansas regulators approved eight new drilling permits last week, all in Western Kansas, including three in Stafford County and two in Finney County. Kansas Operators completed 19 wells last week, with nine in eastern Kansas, and ten west of Wichita, including two in Barton County and one in Ellis County. &nbsp;Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 15 active drilling rigs in Kansas, with four in the eastern half of the state, which is up one from a week ago, and eleven in Western Kansas, a weekly increase of two rigs. That's a 25% increase for the week, but it's down nearly 12% from last month and more than 21% lower than a year ago. Drilling was underway on a lease in Barton County, and four new wells in Finney County.The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up one gas rig but down two rigs drilling for oil. The breakout for horizontal drilling was up three. The tally in Texas is up two rigs, while Louisiana is down by one.The government reports crude oil imports of 5.9 million barrels a day last week, up 98,000 barrels a day from the week before. Crude imports are down about 3,000 barrels a day from the four-week average. Crude exports averaged nearly 4.2 million barrels a day last week, down more than a thousand barrels from the four week average. The US is a net petroleum exporter thanks to product exports of more than five million barrels a day.Two energy providers in Oklahoma set the stage for a massive civil lawsuit over Winter Storm Uri. Two firms accused in Oklahoma of fraud and price fixing during the storm three years ago are denying the allegations. The filings set the stage for a massive discovery process and civil trial. Last month, an Osage County judge denied a motion to dismiss or move the case. Symmetry Energy and a group referred to as Enable Entities have now filed court documents denying wrongdoing. The Oklahoma Attorney General's lawsuit accuses the companies of manipulating natural gas supplies before and during the storm. They're accused of denying access in Oklahoma to natural gas supplies and instead selling those supplies for a huge markup on the spot market.ConocoPhillips will sell its interests in the Gulf of Mexico Ursa and Europa fields to Shell for $735 million, both companies confirmed today. Analysts say ConocoPhillips continues to divest non-core assets, while Shell hopes to strengthen its deep water portfolio.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Crude prices in freefall

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 48. Windy, with a northwest wind 25 to 30 mph decreasing to 13 to 18 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 49 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 28. North northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming calm.

Thursday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 53. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 30. Breezy.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 52.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 63.

Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 36.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 73.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 48. Windy, with a northwest wind 25 to 30 mph decreasing to 13 to 18 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 49 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 28. North northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming calm.Thursday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 53. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 30. Breezy.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 49.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 52.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 63.Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 36.Monday Sunny, with a high near 73.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

The Great Bend High School girls basketball game at Hays has been postponed due to unsafe driving conditions with the wind.&nbsp;

The Class 5A first round Sub-State game in Hays will be played Thursday, March 6 at 6 p.m.&nbsp;

The Great Bend High School girls basketball game at Hays has been postponed due to unsafe driving conditions with the wind.&nbsp; The Class 5A first round Sub-State game in Hays will be played Thursday, March 6 at 6 p.m.&nbsp;

Great Bend girls playoff 🏀 at Hays postponed due to weather

From Great Bend Economic Development...

Great Bend Economic Development and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce announce the return of the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC) for Barton County students in grades 7-12. This unique competition empowers students to develop and pitch business ideas while competing for $2,500 in cash prizes. YEC will occur on March 5, 2025, at the Great Bend Events Center. The trade show and competition are open to the public at noon. Prizes are announced immediately following the judging at about 1:30 pm.

This year, Network Kansas and K-State Research and Extension have joined as partners, providing additional resources for student success. Student participants developed business plans (3-page maximum for state level), created a tradeshow display, and present their ideas to judges. The tradeshow also allows students to interact with the public for the People's Choice award.

About GBED (Great Bend Economic Development): Our goal is to sustain long-term economic health in our community and vitality through the retention, expansion, and attraction of businesses and development that enhance property values, increase personal income, and positively contribute to our citizens' quality of life. For more information about GBED, visit www.gbedinc.com, call 620-796-2407, or email marketing@gbedinc.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741104366919.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend Economic Development...Great Bend Economic Development and the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce announce the return of the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC) for Barton County students in grades 7-12. This unique competition empowers students to develop and pitch business ideas while competing for $2,500 in cash prizes. YEC will occur on March 5, 2025, at the Great Bend Events Center. The trade show and competition are open to the public at noon. Prizes are announced immediately following the judging at about 1:30 pm.This year, Network Kansas and K-State Research and Extension have joined as partners, providing additional resources for student success. Student participants developed business plans (3-page maximum for state level), created a tradeshow display, and present their ideas to judges. The tradeshow also allows students to interact with the public for the People's Choice award.About GBED (Great Bend Economic Development): Our goal is to sustain long-term economic health in our community and vitality through the retention, expansion, and attraction of businesses and development that enhance property values, increase personal income, and positively contribute to our citizens' quality of life. For more information about GBED, visit www.gbedinc.com, call 620-796-2407, or email marketing@gbedinc.com.

Barton Co. Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge welcomes public

On Saturday, March 1, at approximately 5:20 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 1900 block of 23rd&nbsp;Street for a traffic violation. 

K9 Niko responded to the stop to assist. A free air sniff of the vehicle was performed during which K9 Niko alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics in the vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and located marijuana and prescription pills. 

The driver, and only occupant of the vehicle, Kirstie Perez, age 33, was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked for the charges of possession of controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and traffic charges in lieu of bond.

Anyone with information on this case or any other case is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741098012168.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, March 1, at approximately 5:20 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 1900 block of 23rd&nbsp;Street for a traffic violation. K9 Niko responded to the stop to assist. A free air sniff of the vehicle was performed during which K9 Niko alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics in the vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and located marijuana and prescription pills. The driver, and only occupant of the vehicle, Kirstie Perez, age 33, was transported to the Barton County Jail and booked for the charges of possession of controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and traffic charges in lieu of bond.Anyone with information on this case or any other case is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Woman in Great Bend arrested for drugs after traffic stop

While the addition of the large water slides at the Great Bend Wetlands
Waterpark arrived in 2005, the large pool was constructed in 1936. Great Bend
Public Lands Director Scott Keeler said his staff has been able to “limp” to
the finish line each summer but he is fearful of a major issue that would take
the pool out of commission. 

During Monday’s work session, the Great Bend City
Council discussed plans on replacing the large pool, which is just under 12,000
square feet. The council reviewed options that used the same footprint but
reduced the size of the pool, something that concerned Mayor Cody Schmidt.


"As long as we're all here, it's going to be a one-hit wonder," said Schmidt. "I would hate to do half the size then you pack it and it doesn't please anyone or meet their needs. I understand we have a budget, but I think those are things we really need to dive into and have studies done."

City Administrator Logan Burns suggested a $6 million bond project to pay for a
new pool. The 20-year bond would carry an estimated 5.27% interest rate and the
city plans to make the payments from the quality-of-life sales tax.


Consistently hearing that the Great Bend pool needs a lazy river, Burns said
the new pool could include six lanes for summer swim competitions and a smaller
lazy river.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661181279276.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhile the addition of the large water slides at the Great Bend Wetlands
Waterpark arrived in 2005, the large pool was constructed in 1936. Great Bend
Public Lands Director Scott Keeler said his staff has been able to “limp” to
the finish line each summer but he is fearful of a major issue that would take
the pool out of commission. During Monday’s work session, the Great Bend City
Council discussed plans on replacing the large pool, which is just under 12,000
square feet. The council reviewed options that used the same footprint but
reduced the size of the pool, something that concerned Mayor Cody Schmidt.
"As long as we're all here, it's going to be a one-hit wonder," said Schmidt. "I would hate to do half the size then you pack it and it doesn't please anyone or meet their needs. I understand we have a budget, but I think those are things we really need to dive into and have studies done."City Administrator Logan Burns suggested a $6 million bond project to pay for a
new pool. The 20-year bond would carry an estimated 5.27% interest rate and the
city plans to make the payments from the quality-of-life sales tax.
Consistently hearing that the Great Bend pool needs a lazy river, Burns said
the new pool could include six lanes for summer swim competitions and a smaller
lazy river.
"One thing with the lazy river, the bigger and longer you make it, the more lifeguards you need," said Burns. "They have to see every angle of that. We do have trouble finding lifeguards every summer. This concept actually has a lazy river built in the middle of it. It's a smaller one, and you're probably getting away with one or two guards solely on the lazy river."Burns noted to potentially start the pool construction after the 2026 swim
season and have it ready before the 2027 season. City officials will look into
an aquatics engineer to get a better estimate on the cost before coming back to
the city council for approvals.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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