Sunny, with a high near 68. West southwest wind 10 to 18 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.

Mostly clear, with a low around 33. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunny, with a high near 57. North northeast wind 5 to 8 mph becoming east southeast in the afternoon.

Mostly clear, with a low around 33. South southeast wind 8 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

A chance of rain between noon and 3pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40.

Partly sunny, with a high near 61.

A 20 percent chance of rain after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45.

A 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 60. Breezy.

A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Blustery.

Sunny, with a high near 48. Breezy.

Partly cloudy, with a low around 28.

Mostly sunny, with a high near 53.

FridaySunny, with a high near 68. West southwest wind 10 to 18 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.Friday NightMostly clear, with a low around 33. North wind 5 to 10 mph.SaturdaySunny, with a high near 57. North northeast wind 5 to 8 mph becoming east southeast in the afternoon.Saturday NightMostly clear, with a low around 33. South southeast wind 8 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.SundayA chance of rain between noon and 3pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 30%.Sunday NightA 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40.MondayPartly sunny, with a high near 61.Monday NightA 20 percent chance of rain after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45.TuesdayA 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 60. Breezy.Tuesday NightA 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Blustery.WednesdaySunny, with a high near 48. Breezy.Wednesday NightPartly cloudy, with a low around 28.ThursdayMostly sunny, with a high near 53.

Friday’s weather

The team at Great Bend manufacturer Fuller Industries Inc. Monday welcomed top corporate officials from its parent company, Montréal, Canada-based GDI Integrated Facilities Services.

“We like to come out here once a year to check in and see how things are going,” GDI CEO Claude Bigras. “It is a work in progress, and we are seeing a lot of growth and potential.”

During the annual whirlwind visit, the GDI representatives spent the day touring the facility and meeting with the staff.&nbsp;

Joining Bigras were Executive Vice President of Business Operations Bob McGuire, Chief Marketing Officer Fred Edwards and Senior Vice President of Finance Operations Charles-Etienne Girouard.

“We were excited for this opportunity to showcase what is all going on at Fuller,” said Fuller’s CEO Craig Rudin. “We have a lot of exciting things happening here.”

Fuller Industries focuses on the manufacturing of commercial and janitorial cleaning chemicals and supplies. GDI Integrated Facilities officially took ownership of Fuller in September 2021, creating what is now known as Fuller Industries Inc.

“Fuller is making great strides, and we are proud of what we are accomplishing,” said Fuller General Manager Joe Mann. “We are an important player in the commercial cleaning industry, and an integral part of the GDI family.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740523549724.jpeg" alt="Corporate officials from Montréal, Canada-based GDI Integrated Facilities Services, parent company of Great Bend-based Fuller Industries Inc. paid a visit to Fuller Monday, touring the plant and visiting with the staff. Shown are GDI CEO Claude Bigras, Executive Vice President of Business Operations Bob McGuire and Chief Marketing Officer Fred Edwards, learning about the facility’s quality control lab from Fuller CEO Craig Rudin and Fuller General Manager Joe Mann, at right, and QC lab technician Pookie Blecha, at left." />
 <figcaption>Corporate officials from Montréal, Canada-based GDI Integrated Facilities Services, parent company of Great Bend-based Fuller Industries Inc. paid a visit to Fuller Monday, touring the plant and visiting with the staff. Shown are GDI CEO Claude Bigras, Executive Vice President of Business Operations Bob McGuire and Chief Marketing Officer Fred Edwards, learning about the facility’s quality control lab from Fuller CEO Craig Rudin and Fuller General Manager Joe Mann, at right, and QC lab technician Pookie Blecha, at left.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSThe team at Great Bend manufacturer Fuller Industries Inc. Monday welcomed top corporate officials from its parent company, Montréal, Canada-based GDI Integrated Facilities Services.“We like to come out here once a year to check in and see how things are going,” GDI CEO Claude Bigras. “It is a work in progress, and we are seeing a lot of growth and potential.”During the annual whirlwind visit, the GDI representatives spent the day touring the facility and meeting with the staff.&nbsp;Joining Bigras were Executive Vice President of Business Operations Bob McGuire, Chief Marketing Officer Fred Edwards and Senior Vice President of Finance Operations Charles-Etienne Girouard.“We were excited for this opportunity to showcase what is all going on at Fuller,” said Fuller’s CEO Craig Rudin. “We have a lot of exciting things happening here.”Fuller Industries focuses on the manufacturing of commercial and janitorial cleaning chemicals and supplies. GDI Integrated Facilities officially took ownership of Fuller in September 2021, creating what is now known as Fuller Industries Inc.“Fuller is making great strides, and we are proud of what we are accomplishing,” said Fuller General Manager Joe Mann. “We are an important player in the commercial cleaning industry, and an integral part of the GDI family.”

Officials from Fuller parent company GDI visit Great Bend plant

The Barton Community College basketball teams will play at Coffeyville on Wednesday, March 5.

You can listen to the broadcast on 1590 AM or 95.5 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://kvgbam.com/">HERE</a>.

Tip-off for the women's game in Coffeyville is at 5:30 p.m. with the men's game to follow.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596658271505.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College basketball teams will play at Coffeyville on Wednesday, March 5.You can listen to the broadcast on 1590 AM or 95.5 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://kvgbam.com/">HERE</a>.Tip-off for the women's game in Coffeyville is at 5:30 p.m. with the men's game to follow.

🎧Listen LIVE: Barton 🏀 at Coffeyville on 1590 AM / 95.5 FM

At just 16 months old, Parker Liebl has already faced significant health challenges. During birth, he developed a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) and pneumomediastinum, requiring immediate care in the NICU. After returning home, Parker continued to struggle with breathing, leading to the discovery that he was born with laryngomalacia, a congenital airway abnormality. This condition not only made breathing more difficult but also caused severe gastroesophageal reflux and feeding difficulties. Even routine illnesses, like the common cold, pose serious risks to his health.

A recent hospitalization for pneumonia at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, further highlighted the obstacles Parker and his family face. However, during this difficult time, they found an unexpected source of relief—a Starlight Radio Flyer Hero Wagon. Designed specifically for hospital environments, this medical-grade wagon features an integrated IV pole bracket and seat belt, providing a safe and comfortable way for young patients to explore beyond their hospital rooms.

“The medically accessible wagon at Wesley Medical Center provided a sense of comfort and normalcy to my son while he was hospitalized,” said Parker’s mother, Gina Liebl. “It also gave him the ability to be mobile and active while still being connected to necessary cardiac monitors and IV medications.”

Inspired by the positive impact of the Hero Wagon, Parker’s family sought to pay it forward. They partnered with Gina’s employer, Heartland Dermatology, to donate a Starlight Hero Wagon to Clara Barton Medical Center in Hoisington, Kansas—the hospital where Parker first received care. This donation ensures that other children facing hospital stays can also benefit from the comfort, mobility, and playfulness the wagon provides.

“At Heartland Dermatology, we believe in giving back to the communities we serve and supporting families during their most challenging moments,” said Tara Gillespie, CEO of Heartland Dermatology. “We are honored to partner with Starlight Children’s Foundation and Parker’s family to bring a Starlight Hero Wagon to Clara Barton Medical Center. It’s our hope that this small gesture provides comfort, mobility, and a sense of normalcy to young patients and their families, just as it did for Parker.”

Hospital pediatric care teams appreciate the Hero Wagon for its practicality and ease of use. With a one-hand folding design, it’s easy to store in tight hospital spaces, and its medical-grade fabric allows for quick cleaning between uses. Beyond transportation, hospital staff can also use the wagon to deliver toys, supplies, and activities to young patients, reinforcing the healing power of play.

“This gift reflects our commitment to providing compassionate, family-centered care and enhancing the patient experience—even for our youngest visitors. The addition of the Starlight Hero Wagon to our facility will help children move around despite medical challenges,” said Clara Barton Foundation Director, Michelle Moshier. “Thanks to Parker’s family and Heartland Dermatology, this thoughtful gift will bring moments of joy and distraction, helping ease the hospital experience for both kids and their families. Their generosity is a reminder of how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in a child's healing journey.”

Each year, an estimated 20,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized due to the flu. Young children, like Parker, with respiratory conditions are at an even higher risk for complications and extended hospital stays. During these challenging times, access to programs like the Starlight Hero Wagon can make a meaningful difference for both children and their families.

“When kids are happier, it can lead to better health outcomes,” said Peyton Gelley, Starlight Families Manager and Certified Child Life Specialist at Starlight Children’s Foundation. “Starlight supports hospitalized kids—and their families—through programs that unlock the healing power of play. While play might look different in a hospital setting, it provides emotional relief, social connections, and distraction from pain and discomfort.”

Starlight Children’s Foundation has been bringing joy to hospitalized kids since 1982. In 2024 alone, Starlight impacted more than 3 million children and their families across the U.S. by providing vital programs—including Starlight Gaming, Starlight Toy Deliveries, and Starlight Hospital Gowns—that help make hospital stays a little brighter.

To learn more about Starlight Children’s Foundation and how you can support hospitalized children, visit starlight.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740524030234.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSAt just 16 months old, Parker Liebl has already faced significant health challenges. During birth, he developed a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) and pneumomediastinum, requiring immediate care in the NICU. After returning home, Parker continued to struggle with breathing, leading to the discovery that he was born with laryngomalacia, a congenital airway abnormality. This condition not only made breathing more difficult but also caused severe gastroesophageal reflux and feeding difficulties. Even routine illnesses, like the common cold, pose serious risks to his health.A recent hospitalization for pneumonia at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, further highlighted the obstacles Parker and his family face. However, during this difficult time, they found an unexpected source of relief—a Starlight Radio Flyer Hero Wagon. Designed specifically for hospital environments, this medical-grade wagon features an integrated IV pole bracket and seat belt, providing a safe and comfortable way for young patients to explore beyond their hospital rooms.“The medically accessible wagon at Wesley Medical Center provided a sense of comfort and normalcy to my son while he was hospitalized,” said Parker’s mother, Gina Liebl. “It also gave him the ability to be mobile and active while still being connected to necessary cardiac monitors and IV medications.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740524077960.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Inspired by the positive impact of the Hero Wagon, Parker’s family sought to pay it forward. They partnered with Gina’s employer, Heartland Dermatology, to donate a Starlight Hero Wagon to Clara Barton Medical Center in Hoisington, Kansas—the hospital where Parker first received care. This donation ensures that other children facing hospital stays can also benefit from the comfort, mobility, and playfulness the wagon provides.“At Heartland Dermatology, we believe in giving back to the communities we serve and supporting families during their most challenging moments,” said Tara Gillespie, CEO of Heartland Dermatology. “We are honored to partner with Starlight Children’s Foundation and Parker’s family to bring a Starlight Hero Wagon to Clara Barton Medical Center. It’s our hope that this small gesture provides comfort, mobility, and a sense of normalcy to young patients and their families, just as it did for Parker.”Hospital pediatric care teams appreciate the Hero Wagon for its practicality and ease of use. With a one-hand folding design, it’s easy to store in tight hospital spaces, and its medical-grade fabric allows for quick cleaning between uses. Beyond transportation, hospital staff can also use the wagon to deliver toys, supplies, and activities to young patients, reinforcing the healing power of play.“This gift reflects our commitment to providing compassionate, family-centered care and enhancing the patient experience—even for our youngest visitors. The addition of the Starlight Hero Wagon to our facility will help children move around despite medical challenges,” said Clara Barton Foundation Director, Michelle Moshier. “Thanks to Parker’s family and Heartland Dermatology, this thoughtful gift will bring moments of joy and distraction, helping ease the hospital experience for both kids and their families. Their generosity is a reminder of how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in a child's healing journey.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740524120600.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Each year, an estimated 20,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized due to the flu. Young children, like Parker, with respiratory conditions are at an even higher risk for complications and extended hospital stays. During these challenging times, access to programs like the Starlight Hero Wagon can make a meaningful difference for both children and their families.“When kids are happier, it can lead to better health outcomes,” said Peyton Gelley, Starlight Families Manager and Certified Child Life Specialist at Starlight Children’s Foundation. “Starlight supports hospitalized kids—and their families—through programs that unlock the healing power of play. While play might look different in a hospital setting, it provides emotional relief, social connections, and distraction from pain and discomfort.”Starlight Children’s Foundation has been bringing joy to hospitalized kids since 1982. In 2024 alone, Starlight impacted more than 3 million children and their families across the U.S. by providing vital programs—including Starlight Gaming, Starlight Toy Deliveries, and Starlight Hospital Gowns—that help make hospital stays a little brighter.To learn more about Starlight Children’s Foundation and how you can support hospitalized children, visit starlight.org.

Local family donates wagon to Clara Barton Medical Center

What’s not to like about walking? It’s free. It’s easy to do, and it’s not just easy on joints but it also keeps them lubricated and flexible. There’s no question that walking is good for you. A University of Tennessee study found that women who walked had less body fat than those who didn’t walk. It also lowers the risk of blood clots, since the calf acts as a venous pump, contracting and pumping blood from the feet and legs back to the heart, reducing the load on the heart. In addition to being an easy aerobic exercise, walking is good for you in many other ways.&nbsp;

1.  Improve Circulation&nbsp;Walking wards off heart disease, brings up the heart rate, lowers blood pressure and strengthens the heart. Post-menopausal women who walk just one to two miles a day can lower their blood pressure by nearly 11 points in 24 weeks. Women who walk 30 minutes a day can reduce their risk of stroke by 20%, and by 40% when they stepped up the pace, according to researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston.&nbsp;

2.  Shore Up Your Bones&nbsp;Walking can stop the loss of bone mass for those with osteoporosis, according to Michael A. Schwartz, MD, of Plancher Orthopedics &amp; Sports Medicine in New York. In fact, one study of post-menopausal women found that 30 minutes of walking each day reduced their risk of hip fractures by 40%.&nbsp;3.  Enjoy a Longer Life&nbsp;Research finds that people who exercise regularly in their fifties and sixties are 35% less likely to die over the next eight years than their non-walking counterparts. That number shoots up to 45% less likely for those who have underlying health conditions.&nbsp;4.  Lighten Your Mood&nbsp;Walking releases natural painkilling endorphins to the body – one of the emotional benefits of exercise. A California State University, Long Beach, study showed that the more steps people took during the day, the better their moods were. &nbsp;

5.  Lose Weight&nbsp;A brisk 30-minute walk burns 200 calories. Over time, calories burned can lead to pounds dropped.&nbsp;

6.  Strengthen Muscles&nbsp;Walking tones your leg and abdominal muscles – and even arm muscles if you pump them as you walk. This increases your range of motion, shifting the pressure and weight from your joints to your muscles.&nbsp;

7.  Improve Sleep&nbsp;Studies found that women ages 50 to 75 who took one-hour morning walks were more likely to have less insomnia than women who didn’t walk.&nbsp;

8.  Support Your Joints&nbsp;The majority of joint cartilage has no direct blood supply. It gets its nutrition from joint fluid that circulates as we move. Movement and compression from walking “squishes” the cartilage, bringing oxygen and nutrients into the area. &nbsp;

9.  Improve Your Breath&nbsp;When you are walking, your breathing rate increases, causing oxygen to travel faster through bloodstream, helping to eliminate waste products and improve your energy level and the ability to heal.&nbsp;10.  Slow Down Mental Decline&nbsp;A study of 6,000 women ages 65 and older found that age-related memory decline was lower in those who walked more. According to the University of California, San Francisco, study, women walking 2.5 miles per day had a 17% decline in memory compared to a 25% decline in women who walked less than a half-mile per week.&nbsp;

11.  Lower Alzheimer's Risk&nbsp;A study from the University of Virginia Health System in Charlottesville found that men between the ages of 71 and 93 who walked more than a quarter of a mile per day had half the incidence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease than those who walked less.&nbsp;

12.  Do More for Longer&nbsp;Aerobic walking and resistance exercise programs may reduce the incidence of disability in the activities of daily living for people who are older than 65 and have symptomatic osteoarthritis, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Outcomes Management found.&nbsp;

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 <a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu" target="_blank">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>What’s not to like about walking? It’s free. It’s easy to do, and it’s not just easy on joints but it also keeps them lubricated and flexible. There’s no question that walking is good for you. A University of Tennessee study found that women who walked had less body fat than those who didn’t walk. It also lowers the risk of blood clots, since the calf acts as a venous pump, contracting and pumping blood from the feet and legs back to the heart, reducing the load on the heart. In addition to being an easy aerobic exercise, walking is good for you in many other ways.&nbsp;1.  Improve Circulation&nbsp;Walking wards off heart disease, brings up the heart rate, lowers blood pressure and strengthens the heart. Post-menopausal women who walk just one to two miles a day can lower their blood pressure by nearly 11 points in 24 weeks. Women who walk 30 minutes a day can reduce their risk of stroke by 20%, and by 40% when they stepped up the pace, according to researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston.&nbsp;2.  Shore Up Your Bones&nbsp;Walking can stop the loss of bone mass for those with osteoporosis, according to Michael A. Schwartz, MD, of Plancher Orthopedics &amp; Sports Medicine in New York. In fact, one study of post-menopausal women found that 30 minutes of walking each day reduced their risk of hip fractures by 40%.&nbsp;3.  Enjoy a Longer Life&nbsp;Research finds that people who exercise regularly in their fifties and sixties are 35% less likely to die over the next eight years than their non-walking counterparts. That number shoots up to 45% less likely for those who have underlying health conditions.&nbsp;4.  Lighten Your Mood&nbsp;Walking releases natural painkilling endorphins to the body – one of the emotional benefits of exercise. A California State University, Long Beach, study showed that the more steps people took during the day, the better their moods were. &nbsp;5.  Lose Weight&nbsp;A brisk 30-minute walk burns 200 calories. Over time, calories burned can lead to pounds dropped.&nbsp;6.  Strengthen Muscles&nbsp;Walking tones your leg and abdominal muscles – and even arm muscles if you pump them as you walk. This increases your range of motion, shifting the pressure and weight from your joints to your muscles.&nbsp;7.  Improve Sleep&nbsp;Studies found that women ages 50 to 75 who took one-hour morning walks were more likely to have less insomnia than women who didn’t walk.&nbsp;8.  Support Your Joints&nbsp;The majority of joint cartilage has no direct blood supply. It gets its nutrition from joint fluid that circulates as we move. Movement and compression from walking “squishes” the cartilage, bringing oxygen and nutrients into the area. &nbsp;9.  Improve Your Breath&nbsp;When you are walking, your breathing rate increases, causing oxygen to travel faster through bloodstream, helping to eliminate waste products and improve your energy level and the ability to heal.&nbsp;10.  Slow Down Mental Decline&nbsp;A study of 6,000 women ages 65 and older found that age-related memory decline was lower in those who walked more. According to the University of California, San Francisco, study, women walking 2.5 miles per day had a 17% decline in memory compared to a 25% decline in women who walked less than a half-mile per week.&nbsp;11.  Lower Alzheimer's Risk&nbsp;A study from the University of Virginia Health System in Charlottesville found that men between the ages of 71 and 93 who walked more than a quarter of a mile per day had half the incidence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease than those who walked less.&nbsp;12.  Do More for Longer&nbsp;Aerobic walking and resistance exercise programs may reduce the incidence of disability in the activities of daily living for people who are older than 65 and have symptomatic osteoarthritis, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Outcomes Management found.&nbsp;Source: Arthritis Foundation&nbsp;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 <a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu" target="_blank">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.&nbsp;

KOERNER: 12 benefits of walking 

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (2/26)

At 10:55 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 90 NE 25 Road.

At 11:03 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 2027 Morton.

At 1:49 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 622 S. US
281 Highway.

At 3:30 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 3rd
&amp; Charles Street in Albert.

At 6:49 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 10 block of NE 80
Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 7:07 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at SE 60 Avenue
&amp; SE 10 Road.

At 10:06 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 10th
&amp; Kansas.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (2/26)

At 7:17 a.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
3320 17th Street.

At 8:10 a.m. a theft was reported at 2427 24th
Street.

At 10:53 a.m. dogs at large were reported at 80 10th
Street.

At 11:06 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 404 Plum.

At 12 p.m. officers contacted a subject in reference to
threats at 2314 31st Street.

At 2:33 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1213 4th
Street.

At 3:38 p.m. an accident in the 4100 block of Broadway was
reported.

At 3:50 p.m. officers responded to an accident at the 281
Bypass and 21st Street.

At 4:07 p.m. the fire department assisted at 2334 Main
Street for a gas leak/spill.

At 5:43 p.m. a vehicle with an open container inside was
reported at 1811 Main.

At 6:10 p.m. three vehicles blocking a handicap parking
space was reported at 3717 10th Street.

At 8:11 p.m. a dog at large was reported at 2201 Main.

At 9:51 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2218
McKinley Street.

At 11:33 p.m. a suspicious person was reported at 1912 11th
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (2/26)Criminal DamageAt 10:55 a.m. criminal damage was reported at 90 NE 25 Road.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 11:03 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 2027 Morton.Traumatic InjuriesAt 1:49 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 622 S. US
281 Highway.Criminal DamageAt 3:30 p.m. criminal damage was reported at 3rd
&amp; Charles Street in Albert.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 6:49 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 10 block of NE 80
Avenue in Ellinwood.Cattle OutAt 7:07 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at SE 60 Avenue
&amp; SE 10 Road.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:06 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 10th
&amp; Kansas.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (2/26)Unconscious / FaintingAt 7:17 a.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
3320 17th Street.TheftAt 8:10 a.m. a theft was reported at 2427 24th
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 10:53 a.m. dogs at large were reported at 80 10th
Street.Unconscious / FaintingAt 11:06 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 404 Plum.Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 12 p.m. officers contacted a subject in reference to
threats at 2314 31st Street.Sick PersonAt 2:33 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1213 4th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:38 p.m. an accident in the 4100 block of Broadway was
reported.At 3:50 p.m. officers responded to an accident at the 281
Bypass and 21st Street.Gas Leak / SpillAt 4:07 p.m. the fire department assisted at 2334 Main
Street for a gas leak/spill.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:43 p.m. a vehicle with an open container inside was
reported at 1811 Main.Parking ComplaintAt 6:10 p.m. three vehicles blocking a handicap parking
space was reported at 3717 10th Street.Animal ComplaintAt 8:11 p.m. a dog at large was reported at 2201 Main.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 9:51 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2218
McKinley Street.Burglary / In ProgressAt 11:33 p.m. a suspicious person was reported at 1912 11th
Street.

Cop Shop (2/26)

BOOKED: Joshua C. Frydendall on Barton County District Court case for driving with ID only, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Jason A. Loss on Great Bend Municipal Court case for driving under the influence, and open container, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: Joshua C. Frydendall on BCDC case for driving with ID only after posting a $2,500 surety through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Jason A. Loss on GBMC case for driving under the influence, and open container after posting a $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Cameron M. Reichenberger on BCDC case for possession methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp after posting the $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BOOKED: Joshua C. Frydendall on Barton County District Court case for driving with ID only, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Jason A. Loss on Great Bend Municipal Court case for driving under the influence, and open container, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Joshua C. Frydendall on BCDC case for driving with ID only after posting a $2,500 surety through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Jason A. Loss on GBMC case for driving under the influence, and open container after posting a $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Cameron M. Reichenberger on BCDC case for possession methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp after posting the $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (2/26)

News from the Oil Patch, Feb. 25 John P. Tretbar

Multi-million dollar profit margins at the Department of Energy appear to be coming to an end. For the first time since April, DOE did not add crude to the Strategic Petroleum Reserves last week. The Department announced shortly before the Presidential election that it had spent the fund appropriated&nbsp; by Congress to recoup some of the crude oil sold from the SPR three years ago to tame prices.

Strategic Reserves currently stand at just over 395 million barrels. That's down about 200 million barrels from three years ago, but up 36 million barrels in the last year. DOE replaced barrels sold&nbsp; three years ago&nbsp; for $90 to $95 a barrel with barrels bought for $70 to $75 per barrel. The US Treasury gained upwards of $540 million in savings by selling high and buying low.

The government reported a build in US commercial crude stockpiles of nearly five million barrels to just over 432 million as of February 14. That's the fourth weekly increase in a row, totaling 20 million barrels over four weeks. The Energy Information Administration says inventories are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

The US imports more crude than we export by nearly 1.5 million barrels a day. Petroleum products exports lead imports by more than five million. The Energy Information Administration reports crude imports last week dropped by half a million daily barrels from the week before, to 5.8 million barrels per day.

Independent Oil and Gas service reports 24 newly-completed wells for the week ending February 20th. That's 192 so far this year, which is up from 114 a year ago. Operators last week completed two wells in Barton County and one in Stafford County.&nbsp; Kansas regulators okayed 20 new drilling locations for a total of 101 new drilling permits so far this year. There are three new permits in Western Kansas including one in Stafford County.US crude production inched up last week to 13,497,000 barrels per day. That's up three thousand barrels a day from a week ago197-thousand barrels higher than a year ago, and the ninth best week ever.&nbsp; Cumulative production so far this year is up nearly three percent from a year ago.

Baker Hughes reports a spike in oil exploration, with horizontal drilling up six rigs. There are 488 active oil rigs nationwide, up seven rigs from a week ago. The total of 592 active rigs reflects an increase of five rigs in Oklahoma, while New Mexico and Utah each dropped by one rig.&nbsp; The weekly tally for gas drilling was down two rigs.

The latest Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down 20% from a week ago with 12 active rigs. Three of those are in eastern Kansas, which drops by four rigs. Nine are West of Wichita, which is up one. The tally is down nearly thirty percent from a month ago and nearly 43 percent from a year ago.

The Kansas Geological Society sent a letter to members this week indicating they've discovered some long-running bookkeeping irregularities, including un-billed invoices, unpaid bills, and unreported tax garnishments. The announcement dated Monday notes what it calls a "reduction in staff," after "appropriate disciplinary action" was taken, but did not include any names or dollar amounts. The open letter suggests they've seen no evidence of illegal activity as of yet, but says the board brought in an accounting firm to rebuild and reconcile the books.

Forbes magazine now calls Diamondback Energy "...the biggest independent kid on the Permian block." Diamondback was already huge. &nbsp;when it announced this week that it's buying Double Eagle's 40-thousand net acres and &nbsp;27 million barrels a day in current production. The deal is worth more than four billion dollars in cash and stock. One analyst points out that after three years of furious deal-making, this deal leaves few remaining opportunities for big mergers and acquisitions in the Permian Basin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Feb. 25 John P. TretbarMulti-million dollar profit margins at the Department of Energy appear to be coming to an end. For the first time since April, DOE did not add crude to the Strategic Petroleum Reserves last week. The Department announced shortly before the Presidential election that it had spent the fund appropriated&nbsp; by Congress to recoup some of the crude oil sold from the SPR three years ago to tame prices.Strategic Reserves currently stand at just over 395 million barrels. That's down about 200 million barrels from three years ago, but up 36 million barrels in the last year. DOE replaced barrels sold&nbsp; three years ago&nbsp; for $90 to $95 a barrel with barrels bought for $70 to $75 per barrel. The US Treasury gained upwards of $540 million in savings by selling high and buying low.The government reported a build in US commercial crude stockpiles of nearly five million barrels to just over 432 million as of February 14. That's the fourth weekly increase in a row, totaling 20 million barrels over four weeks. The Energy Information Administration says inventories are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year.The US imports more crude than we export by nearly 1.5 million barrels a day. Petroleum products exports lead imports by more than five million. The Energy Information Administration reports crude imports last week dropped by half a million daily barrels from the week before, to 5.8 million barrels per day.Independent Oil and Gas service reports 24 newly-completed wells for the week ending February 20th. That's 192 so far this year, which is up from 114 a year ago. Operators last week completed two wells in Barton County and one in Stafford County.&nbsp; Kansas regulators okayed 20 new drilling locations for a total of 101 new drilling permits so far this year. There are three new permits in Western Kansas including one in Stafford County.US crude production inched up last week to 13,497,000 barrels per day. That's up three thousand barrels a day from a week ago197-thousand barrels higher than a year ago, and the ninth best week ever.&nbsp; Cumulative production so far this year is up nearly three percent from a year ago.Baker Hughes reports a spike in oil exploration, with horizontal drilling up six rigs. There are 488 active oil rigs nationwide, up seven rigs from a week ago. The total of 592 active rigs reflects an increase of five rigs in Oklahoma, while New Mexico and Utah each dropped by one rig.&nbsp; The weekly tally for gas drilling was down two rigs.The latest Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is down 20% from a week ago with 12 active rigs. Three of those are in eastern Kansas, which drops by four rigs. Nine are West of Wichita, which is up one. The tally is down nearly thirty percent from a month ago and nearly 43 percent from a year ago.The Kansas Geological Society sent a letter to members this week indicating they've discovered some long-running bookkeeping irregularities, including un-billed invoices, unpaid bills, and unreported tax garnishments. The announcement dated Monday notes what it calls a "reduction in staff," after "appropriate disciplinary action" was taken, but did not include any names or dollar amounts. The open letter suggests they've seen no evidence of illegal activity as of yet, but says the board brought in an accounting firm to rebuild and reconcile the books.Forbes magazine now calls Diamondback Energy "...the biggest independent kid on the Permian block." Diamondback was already huge. &nbsp;when it announced this week that it's buying Double Eagle's 40-thousand net acres and &nbsp;27 million barrels a day in current production. The deal is worth more than four billion dollars in cash and stock. One analyst points out that after three years of furious deal-making, this deal leaves few remaining opportunities for big mergers and acquisitions in the Permian Basin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: SPR refills trickle down

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

In the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) in Kansas, the conference provides
a leadership opportunity for juniors in high school. The conference consists of
Great Bend, Hays, Garden City, Liberal and Dodge City and each school selects
four representatives to participate. 

One of the Great Bend representatives,
junior Ian Premer, spoke before the USD 428 Board of Education Wednesday on the
importance of modeling leadership characteristics each day.


"They talked a lot about listening and being locked in," said Premer. "In school I don't know if I really learned that. I thought it was important with the eye contact, body language and that you're really locked in all the time. We talked about what being an uncommon leader really is. You can't be afraid to do things that others won't because that's what a leader really has to do."

The 20 WAC Leadership students meet throughout the year with a facilitator discussing
multiple topics. Great Bend junior Reese Bullard is another leadership member
and she valued the discussion on finding your "gift."

"Everyone has a gift," said Bullard. "Once you find your gift, and you live in it, everything goes from there. You can't live in someone else's gift. The way the presenter went about it was saying if you wake up unhappy every day, that's not your gift and you have not found your gift. Finding that value, why you're doing things and your gift was really important to me."

MacKenzie Lindberg and Hayden Kelly are the other two WAC Leadership
representatives from GBHS.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740602147141.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School juniors Reese Bullard, Ian Premer, MacKenzie Lindberg and Hayden Kelly and GBHS Activities Director Matt Westerhaus present on WAC Leadership at the USD 428 Board of Education luncheon at GBHS on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School juniors Reese Bullard, Ian Premer, MacKenzie Lindberg and Hayden Kelly and GBHS Activities Director Matt Westerhaus present on WAC Leadership at the USD 428 Board of Education luncheon at GBHS on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) in Kansas, the conference provides
a leadership opportunity for juniors in high school. The conference consists of
Great Bend, Hays, Garden City, Liberal and Dodge City and each school selects
four representatives to participate. One of the Great Bend representatives,
junior Ian Premer, spoke before the USD 428 Board of Education Wednesday on the
importance of modeling leadership characteristics each day.
"They talked a lot about listening and being locked in," said Premer. "In school I don't know if I really learned that. I thought it was important with the eye contact, body language and that you're really locked in all the time. We talked about what being an uncommon leader really is. You can't be afraid to do things that others won't because that's what a leader really has to do."The 20 WAC Leadership students meet throughout the year with a facilitator discussing
multiple topics. Great Bend junior Reese Bullard is another leadership member
and she valued the discussion on finding your "gift.""Everyone has a gift," said Bullard. "Once you find your gift, and you live in it, everything goes from there. You can't live in someone else's gift. The way the presenter went about it was saying if you wake up unhappy every day, that's not your gift and you have not found your gift. Finding that value, why you're doing things and your gift was really important to me."MacKenzie Lindberg and Hayden Kelly are the other two WAC Leadership
representatives from GBHS.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend athletes find their ‘gift’ with WAC Leadership

Barton Community College Board of Trustees approved tuition and fee
increases for the 2026 academic year and hope to generate $456,729 in
additional revenue from the increases. 

Tuition remains the same for students
that live in Barton County, but fees will increase $2, bumping the per credit
hour price to $117 for in-county students.
Students residing outside of Barton County, outside of Kansas and outside of
the country will see increases of $5 per credit hour. 

International students’
have the highest rates at $223, but Barton Vice President of Administration
Mark Dean said there is a balancing act when charging enough and also staying
competitive with area colleges.


"You can charge more for out-of-state and international, but there is a tipping point," said Dean. "It affects who comes here. Those international students or out-of-state students are going to look at that. That is going to help them determine where they are going."

For the 2025 school year, Barton has the 7th highest tuition and
fees for international students of the 19 community colleges in Kansas. For students
from Kansas, but outside of Barton County, Barton has the 6th lowest
rates.


Trustees Chairman Mike Johnson said the college wants to look out for the
taxpayers when setting prices.


"From my perspective, we want to stay competitive but be careful that we're charging enough," said Johnson. "Our goal here is definitely not to put a bigger burden on the taxpayer. That's why we have to increase the student cost. It makes sense with this year's uncertainty on the state's funding."

The tuition and fee increases will go in effect for the 2025 fall semester.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740590107678.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostBarton Community College Board of Trustees approved tuition and fee
increases for the 2026 academic year and hope to generate $456,729 in
additional revenue from the increases. Tuition remains the same for students
that live in Barton County, but fees will increase $2, bumping the per credit
hour price to $117 for in-county students.
Students residing outside of Barton County, outside of Kansas and outside of
the country will see increases of $5 per credit hour. International students’
have the highest rates at $223, but Barton Vice President of Administration
Mark Dean said there is a balancing act when charging enough and also staying
competitive with area colleges.
"You can charge more for out-of-state and international, but there is a tipping point," said Dean. "It affects who comes here. Those international students or out-of-state students are going to look at that. That is going to help them determine where they are going."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740590127814.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>For the 2025 school year, Barton has the 7th highest tuition and
fees for international students of the 19 community colleges in Kansas. For students
from Kansas, but outside of Barton County, Barton has the 6th lowest
rates.
Trustees Chairman Mike Johnson said the college wants to look out for the
taxpayers when setting prices.
"From my perspective, we want to stay competitive but be careful that we're charging enough," said Johnson. "Our goal here is definitely not to put a bigger burden on the taxpayer. That's why we have to increase the student cost. It makes sense with this year's uncertainty on the state's funding."The tuition and fee increases will go in effect for the 2025 fall semester.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton CC approves tuition & fee increases for next fall

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 63. West northwest wind 9 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 38. Southwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 67. West southwest wind 9 to 16 mph becoming north northwest in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 33. North wind around 7 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 56.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 34.

Sunday A 20 percent chance of rain after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 57. Breezy.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 64.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Tuesday A 40 percent chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 57. Breezy.

Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Blustery.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 63. West northwest wind 9 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 38. Southwest wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 67. West southwest wind 9 to 16 mph becoming north northwest in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 33. North wind around 7 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 56.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 34.Sunday A 20 percent chance of rain after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 57. Breezy.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 64.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42.Tuesday A 40 percent chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 57. Breezy.Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Blustery.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

Thursday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 56. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 19 to 24 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 37 mph.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 35. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 15 to 21 mph becoming west northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48. Breezy, with a north northwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 55.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 64.

Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 35.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 75.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 43.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 56. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 9 to 14 mph increasing to 19 to 24 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 37 mph.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 35. Breezy, with a south southeast wind 15 to 21 mph becoming west northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48. Breezy, with a north northwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 55.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 64.Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 35.Monday Sunny, with a high near 75.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 43.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 75. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Wednesday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Hino Box Truck driven by David E.&nbsp;Bridgeforth, 58, Tre, New Jersey, was westbound on Interstate 70 two miles west of 12th Road. The truck traveled off the road, entered the north ditch and the driver overcorrected.&nbsp; The truck rolled onto the passenger side and came to rest blocking both lanes of travel.

A westbound 2021 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Iazizion&nbsp;Vafoev, 24,&nbsp;Trevosed, Pennsylvania, attempted to avoid the box truck. The semi struck the undercarriage beneath the cab of the box truck.&nbsp; The impact caused the truck to spin into the north ditch. The semi came to rest facing northwest in the north ditch.

Bridgeforth was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. EMS transported Vafoev to Wesley Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY— Westbound Interstate 70 is closed in Ellsworth County between Kansas 14 and Kansas 232 due to a semi crash, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

At approximately 6:45a.m., the Kansas Highway Patrol was notified of a serious crash involving two semis on Interstate 70 westbound just west of the Vesper exit in western Ellsworth County.

KDOT is on scene assisting with traffic control and rerouting.

The KHP’s Critical Highway Accident Response Team (CHART) is also on-site. This specialized team of troopers is highly trained in accident reconstruction and works to provide clarity in serious crashes like this. Drivers should expect delays, seek alternate routes,

For updates and more info&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.gov/@-101.43512,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,oversizeLoads,stationsAlert,weatherRadar">click here&nbsp;</a>or call 511 in Kansas

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30a.m. Wednesday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Hino Box Truck driven by David E.&nbsp;Bridgeforth, 58, Tre, New Jersey, was westbound on Interstate 70 two miles west of 12th Road. The truck traveled off the road, entered the north ditch and the driver overcorrected.&nbsp; The truck rolled onto the passenger side and came to rest blocking both lanes of travel.A westbound 2021 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Iazizion&nbsp;Vafoev, 24,&nbsp;Trevosed, Pennsylvania, attempted to avoid the box truck. The semi struck the undercarriage beneath the cab of the box truck.&nbsp; The impact caused the truck to spin into the north ditch. The semi came to rest facing northwest in the north ditch.Bridgeforth was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. EMS transported Vafoev to Wesley Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.------------<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740580961363.png" alt="KHP image" />
 <figcaption>KHP image</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLSWORTH COUNTY— Westbound Interstate 70 is closed in Ellsworth County between Kansas 14 and Kansas 232 due to a semi crash, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.At approximately 6:45a.m., the Kansas Highway Patrol was notified of a serious crash involving two semis on Interstate 70 westbound just west of the Vesper exit in western Ellsworth County.KDOT is on scene assisting with traffic control and rerouting.The KHP’s Critical Highway Accident Response Team (CHART) is also on-site. This specialized team of troopers is highly trained in accident reconstruction and works to provide clarity in serious crashes like this. Drivers should expect delays, seek alternate routes,For updates and more info&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.gov/@-101.43512,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,oversizeLoads,stationsAlert,weatherRadar">click here&nbsp;</a>or call 511 in Kansas

Fatal Ellsworth Co. crash: Semi collided with box truck from earlier crash

Numerous significant changes are coming from the new administration in Washington, D.C., making it easy to overlook the many bills being proposed in our statehouse. This year, the legislators will adjourn in mid-April instead of mid-May. Recent legislation raises concerns about voter suppression and restrictions on healthcare.

Senate Bill (SB) 4 and House Bill (HB) 2017 aim to eliminate the 3-day grace period for mail-in ballots. Additionally, SB 6 proposes to ban Ranked Choice Voting (RCV). Proponents of these measures argue that they enhance election integrity, while critics warn that they risk disenfranchising voters and stifling innovative voting methods. Some believe that RCV improves our elections by allowing voters to rank candidates in order of preference, thus promoting centrism and consensus.

Proposed restrictions on healthcare include SB 63 and HB 2071, which would prohibit gender-affirming healthcare for minors experiencing gender dysphoria (a child feels as though they are in the wrong body). Furthermore, SB 174, SB 198, HB 2009, and HB 2010 range from criminalizing all forms of abortion to permitting abortion only to save the mother’s life. In August 2022, Kansas voters decisively voted against amending the state constitution to limit abortions after 22 weeks of pregnancy.

In our democratic government, citizens participate in decision-making either directly or by electing representatives. The state or federal government’s authority comes from the people's consent, expressed through their votes. In a democracy, every vote should count equally. To advance this principle, the League of Women Voters of Kansas (LWVK) proposes a bill that Kansas join the National Interstate Popular Vote Compact (NIPVC) via HB 2257. This agreement among states ensures that the candidate who wins the most popular votes nationwide becomes president, effectively bypassing the Electoral College.

Voting is both a right and a responsibility. To better understand these issues, search for the bill number on Google. Time is of the essence as these bills will be voted on during the next two to three weeks. Make your voice heard by contacting:

· Sen. ToryMarie Blew (District 33): 785-296-7682, ToryMarie.Blew@senate.ks.gov

· Rep. Sherri Brantley (District 112): 785-296-7363, Sherri.Brantley@house.ks.gov 

· Rep. Brett Fairchild (District 113): 785-296-7667, brett.fairchild@house.ks.gov

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740494230862.jpeg" alt="written by: Janice Walker, president of League of Women Voters - Great Bend" />
 <figcaption>written by: Janice Walker, president of League of Women Voters - Great Bend</figcaption>
 </figure>Numerous significant changes are coming from the new administration in Washington, D.C., making it easy to overlook the many bills being proposed in our statehouse. This year, the legislators will adjourn in mid-April instead of mid-May. Recent legislation raises concerns about voter suppression and restrictions on healthcare.Voter SuppressionSenate Bill (SB) 4 and House Bill (HB) 2017 aim to eliminate the 3-day grace period for mail-in ballots. Additionally, SB 6 proposes to ban Ranked Choice Voting (RCV). Proponents of these measures argue that they enhance election integrity, while critics warn that they risk disenfranchising voters and stifling innovative voting methods. Some believe that RCV improves our elections by allowing voters to rank candidates in order of preference, thus promoting centrism and consensus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Restrictions on HealthcareProposed restrictions on healthcare include SB 63 and HB 2071, which would prohibit gender-affirming healthcare for minors experiencing gender dysphoria (a child feels as though they are in the wrong body). Furthermore, SB 174, SB 198, HB 2009, and HB 2010 range from criminalizing all forms of abortion to permitting abortion only to save the mother’s life. In August 2022, Kansas voters decisively voted against amending the state constitution to limit abortions after 22 weeks of pregnancy.Every Vote MattersIn our democratic government, citizens participate in decision-making either directly or by electing representatives. The state or federal government’s authority comes from the people's consent, expressed through their votes. In a democracy, every vote should count equally. To advance this principle, the League of Women Voters of Kansas (LWVK) proposes a bill that Kansas join the National Interstate Popular Vote Compact (NIPVC) via HB 2257. This agreement among states ensures that the candidate who wins the most popular votes nationwide becomes president, effectively bypassing the Electoral College.Voting is both a right and a responsibility. To better understand these issues, search for the bill number on Google. Time is of the essence as these bills will be voted on during the next two to three weeks. Make your voice heard by contacting:· Sen. ToryMarie Blew (District 33): 785-296-7682, ToryMarie.Blew@senate.ks.gov· Rep. Sherri Brantley (District 112): 785-296-7363, Sherri.Brantley@house.ks.gov · Rep. Brett Fairchild (District 113): 785-296-7667, brett.fairchild@house.ks.govJanice Walker Great Bend

League of Women Voting Great Bend President: Understanding voter legislation

On Monday, Feb. 24 at approximately 6:57 p.m., the Great Bend Police Department responded to a residence in the 1800 block of Willow Lane in Great Bend in reference to the execution of a search warrant for illegal narcotics. Upon arrival, officers apprehended Cameron Reichenberger, age 24 and Tagan Moss-Barrett, age 37.&nbsp;

During a search of the residence, Great Bend Police detectives located methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Reichenberger and Moss-Barrett were arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail. 

Reichenberger was booked on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.

Moss-Barrett was booked on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.&nbsp; Reichenberger and Moss-Barrett&nbsp; were each booked in lieu of $10,000 cash surety bonds.

This investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with further information regarding this or any other incident is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Crimestoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740602614410.jpeg" alt="Cameron Reichenberger" />
 <figcaption>Cameron Reichenberger</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, Feb. 24 at approximately 6:57 p.m., the Great Bend Police Department responded to a residence in the 1800 block of Willow Lane in Great Bend in reference to the execution of a search warrant for illegal narcotics. Upon arrival, officers apprehended Cameron Reichenberger, age 24 and Tagan Moss-Barrett, age 37.&nbsp;During a search of the residence, Great Bend Police detectives located methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Reichenberger and Moss-Barrett were arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail. Reichenberger was booked on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740602638369.jpeg" alt="Tagan Moss-Barrett" />
 <figcaption>Tagan Moss-Barrett</figcaption>
 </figure>Moss-Barrett was booked on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.&nbsp; Reichenberger and Moss-Barrett&nbsp; were each booked in lieu of $10,000 cash surety bonds.This investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with further information regarding this or any other incident is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or Crimestoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Two arrested after illegal narcotics search warrant in Great Bend

The Barton Community College basketball teams will host Colby on Wednesday, Feb. 26.

You can listen to the broadcast on 104.3 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://b1043.net/">HERE</a>.

The women's game in Great Bend begins at 5:30 p.m. with the men's game to follow at 7:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604702295823.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College basketball teams will host Colby on Wednesday, Feb. 26.You can listen to the broadcast on 104.3 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://b1043.net/">HERE</a>.The women's game in Great Bend begins at 5:30 p.m. with the men's game to follow at 7:30 p.m.

🎧Listen LIVE: Barton 🏀 vs. Colby

This morning, Great Bend High School (GBHS) conducted a planned lockdown drill in coordination with local law enforcement and their K-9 unit during a regularly scheduled visit.

During this time, GBHS received a threatening phone call, prompting an extended lockdown while law enforcement assessed the situation. Due to their presence on the premises, officers were immediately available to investigate. After a thorough review, the threat was determined to be non-credible. The lockdown was lifted, and normal operations resumed.

There was no immediate danger to students or staff. GBHS remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment, and we appreciate the swift response of local law enforcement and the cooperation of our students and staff.

For any further inquiries, please contact the USD 428 District Education Center at 620-793-1500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659408772654.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>From USD 428...This morning, Great Bend High School (GBHS) conducted a planned lockdown drill in coordination with local law enforcement and their K-9 unit during a regularly scheduled visit.During this time, GBHS received a threatening phone call, prompting an extended lockdown while law enforcement assessed the situation. Due to their presence on the premises, officers were immediately available to investigate. After a thorough review, the threat was determined to be non-credible. The lockdown was lifted, and normal operations resumed.There was no immediate danger to students or staff. GBHS remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment, and we appreciate the swift response of local law enforcement and the cooperation of our students and staff.For any further inquiries, please contact the USD 428 District Education Center at 620-793-1500.

Great Bend High School goes on lockdown, no threat found

Barton Community College President Dr. Marcus Garstecki and Bart the Cougar stopped by Ellinwood Grade School to read to Courtney Cook’s first grade class Monday afternoon. 

After reading a couple of books, Garstecki and Bart followed the classroom tradition of signing the list of guest readers that have previously visited the classroom.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740521357057.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton Community College President Dr. Marcus Garstecki and Bart the Cougar stopped by Ellinwood Grade School to read to Courtney Cook’s first grade class Monday afternoon. After reading a couple of books, Garstecki and Bart followed the classroom tradition of signing the list of guest readers that have previously visited the classroom.

Barton CC President visits Ellinwood 1st grade class

With the bitterly cold temperatures we have experienced some this winter. Producers may be wondering if overwintering insect pests could be killed and their populations reduced?

Cold temperatures are probably not the most significant influencer on insect demise. The reason temperature has little effect on their survival is related to their life cycle. Depending on the species, insects overwinter in all life stages – from adults to eggs, larvae or in chrysalis and cocoons. Some insects will avoid the cold altogether and migrate to warmer temperatures such as the monarch butterfly, armyworms, potato leafhopper and corn earworm, to name a few. Some literally will freeze to death (sorghum aphid) but the next generation will migrate in from the south.

Insects have survived for millions of years and evolve with the climate. Insects are cold-blooded, which means they do not generate heat. Their body temperatures fluctuate with the weather patterns, which gives many of them the ability to withstand just about any extreme weather nature brings their way. As cold-blooded insects, they go dormant or inactive when the temperatures drop below 50 degrees.

Insects that overwinter in more exposed areas have additional cold adaptations. For example, soybean aphids overwinter as eggs and supercool to temperatures as low as -29 degrees, while European corn borer larvae can produce glycerol, a substance which acts as a biological antifreeze.

Insects overwinter in protected areas, sheltered from the extremes. They spend the winter deep in the soil, buried in plant debris, inside plants and even in our homes. These locations insulate and protect the developing stages ensuring emergence and survival.

Species that overwinter as eggs are usually very winter hardy. The eggs exist in tough shells, often in egg clusters. Grasshopper eggs are laid in the ground and if the ground is undisturbed, they can freeze over winter and still hatch out just fine. Praying mantids lay very tough and resilient egg cases on tree bark, sides of buildings, almost anywhere that they can. If left alone, these will survive to hatch in spring. Bagworms survive as eggs tucked inside a densely woven silken bag protected from the harshest elements.

Even though insect pest populations will undoubtedly survive extreme cold, remember that beneficial insects like parasitoids and natural predators will survive too.

Mentioning insects there is a program coming up concerning livestock insects. Dr. Cassandra Olds, Professor of Entomology at KSU is presenting a program. “Insect control for

livestock” on Tuesday, March 4th. It will be held at the Cottonwood Extension office at 601 Main St. in Hays. The program will start at 4 pm with light refreshments and run about an hour.

Dr. Olds is an expert in control of common livestock pests including flies, and ticks among others. Topics covered during the program include: Determining which flies your livestock have a problem with, why flies develop resistance to insecticides, what can you do to slow the spread of resistance within fly populations and developing an effective/integrated pest management program for your operation.

RSVP is appreciated, but not necessary for the refreshments. Please email Alicia Boor at aboor@ksu.edu or call 785-628-9430 to RSVP. We hope to see you there!

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>With the bitterly cold temperatures we have experienced some this winter. Producers may be wondering if overwintering insect pests could be killed and their populations reduced?Cold temperatures are probably not the most significant influencer on insect demise. The reason temperature has little effect on their survival is related to their life cycle. Depending on the species, insects overwinter in all life stages – from adults to eggs, larvae or in chrysalis and cocoons. Some insects will avoid the cold altogether and migrate to warmer temperatures such as the monarch butterfly, armyworms, potato leafhopper and corn earworm, to name a few. Some literally will freeze to death (sorghum aphid) but the next generation will migrate in from the south.Insects have survived for millions of years and evolve with the climate. Insects are cold-blooded, which means they do not generate heat. Their body temperatures fluctuate with the weather patterns, which gives many of them the ability to withstand just about any extreme weather nature brings their way. As cold-blooded insects, they go dormant or inactive when the temperatures drop below 50 degrees.Insects that overwinter in more exposed areas have additional cold adaptations. For example, soybean aphids overwinter as eggs and supercool to temperatures as low as -29 degrees, while European corn borer larvae can produce glycerol, a substance which acts as a biological antifreeze.Insects overwinter in protected areas, sheltered from the extremes. They spend the winter deep in the soil, buried in plant debris, inside plants and even in our homes. These locations insulate and protect the developing stages ensuring emergence and survival.Species that overwinter as eggs are usually very winter hardy. The eggs exist in tough shells, often in egg clusters. Grasshopper eggs are laid in the ground and if the ground is undisturbed, they can freeze over winter and still hatch out just fine. Praying mantids lay very tough and resilient egg cases on tree bark, sides of buildings, almost anywhere that they can. If left alone, these will survive to hatch in spring. Bagworms survive as eggs tucked inside a densely woven silken bag protected from the harshest elements.Even though insect pest populations will undoubtedly survive extreme cold, remember that beneficial insects like parasitoids and natural predators will survive too.Mentioning insects there is a program coming up concerning livestock insects. Dr. Cassandra Olds, Professor of Entomology at KSU is presenting a program. “Insect control forlivestock” on Tuesday, March 4th. It will be held at the Cottonwood Extension office at 601 Main St. in Hays. The program will start at 4 pm with light refreshments and run about an hour.Dr. Olds is an expert in control of common livestock pests including flies, and ticks among others. Topics covered during the program include: Determining which flies your livestock have a problem with, why flies develop resistance to insecticides, what can you do to slow the spread of resistance within fly populations and developing an effective/integrated pest management program for your operation.RSVP is appreciated, but not necessary for the refreshments. Please email Alicia Boor at aboor@ksu.edu or call 785-628-9430 to RSVP. We hope to see you there!Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.