Wednesday Partly sunny and cold, with a high near 8. Wind chill values as low as -23. North wind 9 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around -11. North wind 5 to 7 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 13. Wind chill values as low as -10. Calm wind becoming east southeast around 6 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 0. South southeast wind around 6 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 25.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 13.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 45.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 55.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 33.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 65.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 33.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 63.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday Partly sunny and cold, with a high near 8. Wind chill values as low as -23. North wind 9 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around -11. North wind 5 to 7 mph becoming calm after midnight.Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 13. Wind chill values as low as -10. Calm wind becoming east southeast around 6 mph in the afternoon.Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 0. South southeast wind around 6 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 25.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 13.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 45.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 28.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 55.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 33.Monday Sunny, with a high near 65.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 33.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 63.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

USD 428 in Great Bend announced there will be no school for Wednesday, Feb. 19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594999694209.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>USD 428 in Great Bend announced there will be no school for Wednesday, Feb. 19.

No school for USD 428 Great Bend on Wednesday

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Christina Hayes has been employed with the City of Great Bend for 14
years as the Community Coordinator. In 2016, she added the role of Great Bend
Convention and Visitors Bureau Director. 

At Tuesday’s Great Bend City Council
meeting, Hayes' resignation from the city was announced. Hayes’ last day with the
city will be Feb. 25.

"I've always put my whole heart in this job," said Hayes. "I hope citizens could see my determination and passion for what I got to create for Great Bend. Thank you to every citizen, visitor and friend who supported me in this role. Though I may be stepping away from this position, my heart will always be with this community. Thank you so much for your trust, support and memories that I will carry with me forever."


Hayes was born and raised in Claflin and graduated from Fort Hays State
University with a bachelors and masters degree in Public
Relations/Communications. 


Due to the weather, Hayes was unable to attend the city council meeting but
City Administrator Logan Burns read Hayes’ written statement to the council,
including a suggestion going forward.


"As I transition out of this role, I strongly encourage the council to consider dividing the position into separate roles. One would focus on tourism and another on community coordination. The scope of this job has grown immensely over the years. I believe this structure would allow for even greater focus and success in each area."

Hayes was assigned to build and promote events for Great Bend and bring in
visitors for 14 years.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

"I want to give a very big shoutout to Christina," said Burns. "She's probably one of the city's greatest cheerleaders. I want to thank her for her years of service to us."

Hayes stated she has been offered another position that she cannot announce yet.

"Great Bend has an amazing future ahead," said Hayes. "It's been an incredible honor to be one of Great Bend's biggest cheerleaders. I will always be cheering on this role and this town."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597262553119.jpeg" alt="Great Bend Community Coordinator and CVB Director Christina Hayes announced her resignation from the City of Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend Community Coordinator and CVB Director Christina Hayes announced her resignation from the City of Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostChristina Hayes has been employed with the City of Great Bend for 14
years as the Community Coordinator. In 2016, she added the role of Great Bend
Convention and Visitors Bureau Director. At Tuesday’s Great Bend City Council
meeting, Hayes' resignation from the city was announced. Hayes’ last day with the
city will be Feb. 25."I've always put my whole heart in this job," said Hayes. "I hope citizens could see my determination and passion for what I got to create for Great Bend. Thank you to every citizen, visitor and friend who supported me in this role. Though I may be stepping away from this position, my heart will always be with this community. Thank you so much for your trust, support and memories that I will carry with me forever."
Hayes was born and raised in Claflin and graduated from Fort Hays State
University with a bachelors and masters degree in Public
Relations/Communications. 
Due to the weather, Hayes was unable to attend the city council meeting but
City Administrator Logan Burns read Hayes’ written statement to the council,
including a suggestion going forward.
"As I transition out of this role, I strongly encourage the council to consider dividing the position into separate roles. One would focus on tourism and another on community coordination. The scope of this job has grown immensely over the years. I believe this structure would allow for even greater focus and success in each area."Hayes was assigned to build and promote events for Great Bend and bring in
visitors for 14 years.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"I want to give a very big shoutout to Christina," said Burns. "She's probably one of the city's greatest cheerleaders. I want to thank her for her years of service to us."Hayes stated she has been offered another position that she cannot announce yet."Great Bend has an amazing future ahead," said Hayes. "It's been an incredible honor to be one of Great Bend's biggest cheerleaders. I will always be cheering on this role and this town."

Christina Hayes announces resignation from City of Great Bend

News from the Oil Patch, Feb. 17 John P. Tretbar

US crude production last week reached the top ten.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reported average output of 13,494,000 barrels per day, an increase of 16,000 daily barrels from a week earlier. That's the biggest weekly tally since December, and the ninth biggest ever. Four-week average output and cumulative annual production both top 13.4 million barrels a day. Each is up about three percent from a year ago.

EIA reported commercial crude stockpiles rose 4.1 million barrels from a week ago and are four percent below the five-year seasonal average at just under 428 million barrels.

Crude prices are hovering in a tight trading range, with the benchmarks dropping a few cents on Friday heading toward a weekly loss of a few pennies a barrel.&nbsp; New York crude offers dipped below $71 per barrel.&nbsp; Brent crude dropped under $75 in London.

The government continues to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserves, and continues to amass huge savings for the US Treasury. The Energy Department took delivery of 200,000 barrels last week at prices $15 cheaper than what we sold it for two years ago. That's a three million dollar profit this week and $468 million since refill operations resumed last April.

Weekly exploration data in Kansas points to another down year on the production side.&nbsp; Independent Oil and Gas Service notes 25 new well-completion reports last week, with 15 in Western Kansas including one in Barton County, two in Ellis County and two in Russell County.&nbsp; That's 168 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 250 at this time last year. Overall, drilling activity in Kansas is down about 32% from same period last year. Kansas regulators okayed 15 new drilling permits, with five in Western Kansas. That's 81 new permits so far this year, which is less than half the tally a year ago.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service shows a total of 15 active drilling rigs in Kansas. There are eight in the western half of the state which is up one from a week ago, and seven in eastern Kansas, which is down one. Operators were moving in rotary tools to spud a new well in Barton County.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up one oil rig and one gas rig for a total of 588 active rigs. The count in Texas is up two rigs. Utah is up one. The tallies in North Dakota and Louisiana are each down one rig.

The number-three crude-oil producing state in the country reports some mixed results. North Dakota's crude output increased slightly in December, on the heels of a spike of 11% the month before. The Department of Mineral Resources reported a daily average just under 1.2 million barrels a day, which is down slightly from the shorter month in November. Natural Gas production was down nearly three percent, and the state's closely watched gas-capture rate dropped to 94%. Rig counts dropped four rigs in the last three months to 33 active rigs by February13th. DMR reports on ongoing decline in well-completions, but drilling permits are up in January.

The US imports more crude oil that we export by more than two-and -a-half million barrels a day, according to the Energy Information Administration.&nbsp; Petroleum product imports trail exports by nearly five million.

EIA said U.S. crude oil imports averaged 6.3 million barrels per day last week, down 606 thousand barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude imports averaged about 6.6 million barrels per day, 7.6% more than the same four-week period last year.

Crude exports averaged 3.9 million barrels a day, down nearly half a million from a week earlier, according to the government.&nbsp; Exports over the last four weeks are up 100-thousand daily barrels compared to the same period last year.

An oil tanker carrying crude from a sanctioned Russian producer has been floating off the coast of India for nearly a week, and it's not clear if authorities will allow the vessel to deliver its cargo. Bloomberg reports the Cordelia Moon was headed to Western India with about a million barrels of Russian crude.&nbsp;The owner of the cargo was one of the two Russian producers sanctioned by the US last month. This is the same Russian "shadow tanker" that made headlines in October when it came under fire near the Suez Canal, disrupting global trade.

Another 6.3 million barrels of Russian deliveries are being held on sanctioned vessels along Russia's Pacific coast. Those ships have been stationary for about a week near Russia's Sakhalin Island facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Feb. 17 John P. TretbarUS crude production last week reached the top ten.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration reported average output of 13,494,000 barrels per day, an increase of 16,000 daily barrels from a week earlier. That's the biggest weekly tally since December, and the ninth biggest ever. Four-week average output and cumulative annual production both top 13.4 million barrels a day. Each is up about three percent from a year ago.EIA reported commercial crude stockpiles rose 4.1 million barrels from a week ago and are four percent below the five-year seasonal average at just under 428 million barrels.Crude prices are hovering in a tight trading range, with the benchmarks dropping a few cents on Friday heading toward a weekly loss of a few pennies a barrel.&nbsp; New York crude offers dipped below $71 per barrel.&nbsp; Brent crude dropped under $75 in London.The government continues to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserves, and continues to amass huge savings for the US Treasury. The Energy Department took delivery of 200,000 barrels last week at prices $15 cheaper than what we sold it for two years ago. That's a three million dollar profit this week and $468 million since refill operations resumed last April.Weekly exploration data in Kansas points to another down year on the production side.&nbsp; Independent Oil and Gas Service notes 25 new well-completion reports last week, with 15 in Western Kansas including one in Barton County, two in Ellis County and two in Russell County.&nbsp; That's 168 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 250 at this time last year. Overall, drilling activity in Kansas is down about 32% from same period last year. Kansas regulators okayed 15 new drilling permits, with five in Western Kansas. That's 81 new permits so far this year, which is less than half the tally a year ago.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service shows a total of 15 active drilling rigs in Kansas. There are eight in the western half of the state which is up one from a week ago, and seven in eastern Kansas, which is down one. Operators were moving in rotary tools to spud a new well in Barton County.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is up one oil rig and one gas rig for a total of 588 active rigs. The count in Texas is up two rigs. Utah is up one. The tallies in North Dakota and Louisiana are each down one rig.The number-three crude-oil producing state in the country reports some mixed results. North Dakota's crude output increased slightly in December, on the heels of a spike of 11% the month before. The Department of Mineral Resources reported a daily average just under 1.2 million barrels a day, which is down slightly from the shorter month in November. Natural Gas production was down nearly three percent, and the state's closely watched gas-capture rate dropped to 94%. Rig counts dropped four rigs in the last three months to 33 active rigs by February13th. DMR reports on ongoing decline in well-completions, but drilling permits are up in January.The US imports more crude oil that we export by more than two-and -a-half million barrels a day, according to the Energy Information Administration.&nbsp; Petroleum product imports trail exports by nearly five million.EIA said U.S. crude oil imports averaged 6.3 million barrels per day last week, down 606 thousand barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude imports averaged about 6.6 million barrels per day, 7.6% more than the same four-week period last year.Crude exports averaged 3.9 million barrels a day, down nearly half a million from a week earlier, according to the government.&nbsp; Exports over the last four weeks are up 100-thousand daily barrels compared to the same period last year.An oil tanker carrying crude from a sanctioned Russian producer has been floating off the coast of India for nearly a week, and it's not clear if authorities will allow the vessel to deliver its cargo. Bloomberg reports the Cordelia Moon was headed to Western India with about a million barrels of Russian crude.&nbsp;The owner of the cargo was one of the two Russian producers sanctioned by the US last month. This is the same Russian "shadow tanker" that made headlines in October when it came under fire near the Suez Canal, disrupting global trade.Another 6.3 million barrels of Russian deliveries are being held on sanctioned vessels along Russia's Pacific coast. Those ships have been stationary for about a week near Russia's Sakhalin Island facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Sanctioned crude at sea; shadow tankers at risk

Changing the diet is hard. Some of us get into a routine of choosing the same foods at the grocery store, ordering “the regular,” and making our go-to meals. Most of the time, this is not a bad thing. It creates less stress and less food waste.

However, sometimes we wish to change our dietary preferences. This may be to cope with health conditions, aim for weight loss, or prevent illness. If you have ever tried to change your eating patterns, you know it can be challenging.

But what if you could make changes to reframe how you eat, not what you eat, to find success?

Simply put, the American way of eating is not always conducive to achieving health goals. Cultural norms like skipping meals, snacking, and mindless eating make it challenging to fuel up properly. So, here are a few ways to reframe how you eat to help you meet your nutrition goals.

First, breakfast like a champion. Since childhood, you have likely heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Although it may not be more significant than other meals, a high protein breakfast can help you achieve your goals by balancing blood sugar and fueling your day.

When we fuel the tank before the race, we aren’t running on fumes the entire day. However, undereating at the beginning of the day can cause overindulgence in the evening. Contrarily, having your largest meal of the day at breakfast instead of dinner can improve metabolism, digestion, and sleep. Overall, eating breakfast regularly can reduce extreme evening hunger, sugar cravings, and late-night grazing.

Next, don’t skimp on meals. Instead, aim to have complete, fulfilling meals that can provide sustainable energy. Balanced meals with fiber, protein, and unsaturated fats are shown to be

satiating, and eating enough at mealtimes can reduce unplanned snacking. Often times snacking adds unaccounted calories and includes processed, convenience foods.

Finally, be fully present as you eat. Mindful eating can help you to enjoy your food and prevent overeating. By engaging all your senses as you eat, you slow down and improve digestion. You are also more conscious of hunger cues and can better distinguish between physical and emotional hunger.

The human brain is incapable of multitasking, so eliminating screen time during meals is essential. This allows us to tune into the body’s hunger and fullness cues and to create a healthier relationship with food.

Improving your eating style, like adding more vegetables, reducing processed foods, or drinking more water, is challenging. Plus, trying to make changes overnight can feel impossible. So, consider creating better mealtime habits first because how you eat can make it easier to adjust what you eat.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Changing the diet is hard. Some of us get into a routine of choosing the same foods at the grocery store, ordering “the regular,” and making our go-to meals. Most of the time, this is not a bad thing. It creates less stress and less food waste.However, sometimes we wish to change our dietary preferences. This may be to cope with health conditions, aim for weight loss, or prevent illness. If you have ever tried to change your eating patterns, you know it can be challenging.But what if you could make changes to reframe how you eat, not what you eat, to find success?Simply put, the American way of eating is not always conducive to achieving health goals. Cultural norms like skipping meals, snacking, and mindless eating make it challenging to fuel up properly. So, here are a few ways to reframe how you eat to help you meet your nutrition goals.First, breakfast like a champion. Since childhood, you have likely heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Although it may not be more significant than other meals, a high protein breakfast can help you achieve your goals by balancing blood sugar and fueling your day.When we fuel the tank before the race, we aren’t running on fumes the entire day. However, undereating at the beginning of the day can cause overindulgence in the evening. Contrarily, having your largest meal of the day at breakfast instead of dinner can improve metabolism, digestion, and sleep. Overall, eating breakfast regularly can reduce extreme evening hunger, sugar cravings, and late-night grazing.Next, don’t skimp on meals. Instead, aim to have complete, fulfilling meals that can provide sustainable energy. Balanced meals with fiber, protein, and unsaturated fats are shown to besatiating, and eating enough at mealtimes can reduce unplanned snacking. Often times snacking adds unaccounted calories and includes processed, convenience foods.Finally, be fully present as you eat. Mindful eating can help you to enjoy your food and prevent overeating. By engaging all your senses as you eat, you slow down and improve digestion. You are also more conscious of hunger cues and can better distinguish between physical and emotional hunger.The human brain is incapable of multitasking, so eliminating screen time during meals is essential. This allows us to tune into the body’s hunger and fullness cues and to create a healthier relationship with food.Improving your eating style, like adding more vegetables, reducing processed foods, or drinking more water, is challenging. Plus, trying to make changes overnight can feel impossible. So, consider creating better mealtime habits first because how you eat can make it easier to adjust what you eat.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Reframe mealtime habits - how you eat

Barton Community College has announced its list of graduates who earned associate degrees or certificates for career training during the fall semester of 2024.

Andover Wyatt Huslig, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate

Bison Jenny Shaw, Business Management &amp; Leadership Certificate

Canton Elijah Clarke, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate

Chase Walon Belk, Welding Technology Certificate

Cimarron Seth McGinnes, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nicholas Pfeifer, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Claflin Emma Hickel, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Hunter Klima, Plumbing Certificate&nbsp;

Colby Jennifer Cardwell, Medical Coding Certificate Alexis Trail, Dietary Manager Certificate

Concordia Douglas Mahin, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Derby Mekaila Richert, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ellinwood Brady Christiansen, Welding Technology Certificate Bryan Jaske, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate Brooklin Morgan, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Halee Morrison, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ellsworth Lafayette Cosby, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; George Ferenz, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Shane Mays, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Fort Leavenworth Antonio Smith, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Fort Riley Ciara Adamo, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nicholas Amerson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ariana Arriaga, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nicole Baez, Medical Coding Certificate Jonpaul Baptiste, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Christi Brannon, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; James Brooks, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lindsey Castellano, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Benny Crisostomo, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kassandra Deleon, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Bradley Godsey, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nathaniel Grund, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Justin Habel, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Elizabeth Haskins, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Stephon Haynes, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Isaias Hernandez, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dakota Kiser, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Michael Manlove, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kendly Nicolas, Business Management and Leadership Certificate Jonathan Orellana, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kathryn Rios, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Hailey Starkey, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Julia Stickney, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Gardner Veronika Wojtas, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Goddard Emma Warren, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Great Bend Brittany Becker, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Zachary Becker, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Damian Calzada, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate Kaden Deines, Construction Technology Tuff Elliott-Wittman, Welding Technology Certificate Ruth Gonzalez-Duran, Business Management and Leadership Certificate Jaden Hartshorn, Plumbing Certificate Iris Ibarra, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Gabriale Jacobs, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Annely Partida, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Laura Patzner, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aide Reyes Sepulveda, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hays Hayley Mulkey, Dietary Manager Certificate

Hesston Sophia Walters, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hoisington Taelur Barnes, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Stacy Moore, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jarrett Shives, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Bailey Streit, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Shannon Donaldson, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aspyn King, A.A.S.

Junction City Vaketta Arguello, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Breyanna Baize, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Christian Diaz Centeno, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Riley Gaer, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Junior Guillomette, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Zidania Henry, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Carol Hires, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Taryn Keller, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Madison Kirk, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Grace Lichtensteiger, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Erik Mitchell, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Whitney Mortimer, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aidan Musser, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Brittani Nelson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Paul Santillo, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Timothy Sifuentes, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; KayLynn Spriggs, Medical Coding Certificate Isabella Stracuzzi, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dytasia Yates, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kloe Young, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kansas City CeAra Evans, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Tisha Voigts, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Larned Reed Russum, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Abby Towery, Medical Coding Certificate Alexandra Zook-Cochran, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lawrence Samuel Bond, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Leavenworth Tyler Lawlis, A.A.S. Jadon Nowlin, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Julian Petrik, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Deanna Reyes, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

LenexaLily Waters, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lyons Victoria Contreras, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kayston Cox, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate Natascha Jaime, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Manhattan Adrienne Bryan, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kylee Ezzio, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sarah Luedders, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Erika Mazzella, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dillon Schmidt, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Anna Teaney, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Molly Thomas, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nathan Thompson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

McPherson Joseph Miller, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate

Ness City Emiliano Araiza-Bejarano, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Olmitz Alexander Mater, Welding Technology Certificate

Otis Eston Juno, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate

Perry Dallas Rhoads, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Russell Kylie Miller, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nicholas Turner, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Salina Briceida Garcia, Welding Technology Certificate

Timken Brandi Jecha, Medical Coding Certificate

Topeka Kamea Rice, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ayden Thompson, A.A.S.

Ulysses Edgar Reyes, OSHA Safety and Health Certificate

Valley Center Derek Truman, Construction Technology

Victoria Brooklyn Nowak, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

White City Spencer Lewis, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Wichita Quartenay Braven, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Military Stationed Overseas Aaron Stevens, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Chula Vista, Calif. Alexandra Rodriguez, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Long Beach, Calif. Tony Ty, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Taft, Calif. Samantha Guerrero, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ventura, Calif. Trent Dowler, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Denver, Colo.&nbsp; Joyce Amoako, A.A.S.

Laporte, Colo.&nbsp; Bethany Henninger, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Daytona Beach, Fla. Megan Glazebrook, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Miramar, Fla. Kalil Murphy, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Riverview, Fla.&nbsp; Yolanda White, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Tallahassee, Fla. Jonathan Miller, Networking Security Specialist Certificate

Attapulgus, Ga. Antonio Riles, A.A.S.&nbsp;

Garden City, Ga. Brier Alexander, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Honolulu, Hawaii Tyler Trantham, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Greenfield, Ind.&nbsp; Delanie Janes, A.A.S.

Needham, Mass.&nbsp; Aaron Camille, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Warren, Mass. Jonathan Cote, Dietary Manager Certificate

Gwynn Oak, Md. Joseph Jackson, Dietary Manager Certificate

Fenton, Mo. Tyler Milner, Dietary Manager Certificate

Kansas City, Mo. Quentin Williams, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lees Summit, Mo. Elijah Williams, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Platte City, Mo. Nathaniel Francis, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Omaha, Neb. Masa Kheir, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

White Sands Missile Range, N.M. Ivan Garcia, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Arkoma, Okla. Cecillia Poore, Dietary Manager Certificate

Manchester, Okla.&nbsp; Bridgette Hendrick, Dietary Manager Certificate

Austin, Pa. Rachel Jeffers, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Columbia, S.C. Danaly Sosa, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Memphis, Tenn. Jennifer Jones, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Nashville, Tenn. Shane Rich, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Jacksboro, Texas Amber Clemons, A.A.S.

Kingwood, Texas Amy Nehls, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Fort Eustis, Va. Ryan Swift, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Fredericksburg, Va. Jeffrey Berrigan, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Triangle, Va. Princess Miriam Armstead, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

McKenna, Wash. Samantha McGuire, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Puyallup, Wash.&nbsp; Gary Roberts, Dietary Manager Certificate

Milwaukee, Wisc. Ciara Rhodes, Medical Coding Certificate

Shorewood, Wisc. Emily Medley, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Belgium Loic Valentin Mabika Kanku Badibanga, A.A.

Barton Community College has announced its list of graduates who earned associate degrees or certificates for career training during the fall semester of 2024.Andover Wyatt Huslig, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution CertificateBison Jenny Shaw, Business Management &amp; Leadership CertificateCanton Elijah Clarke, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution CertificateChase Walon Belk, Welding Technology CertificateCimarron Seth McGinnes, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nicholas Pfeifer, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Claflin Emma Hickel, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Hunter Klima, Plumbing Certificate&nbsp;Colby Jennifer Cardwell, Medical Coding Certificate Alexis Trail, Dietary Manager CertificateConcordia Douglas Mahin, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Derby Mekaila Richert, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ellinwood Brady Christiansen, Welding Technology Certificate Bryan Jaske, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate Brooklin Morgan, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Halee Morrison, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ellsworth Lafayette Cosby, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; George Ferenz, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Shane Mays, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fort Leavenworth Antonio Smith, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fort Riley Ciara Adamo, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nicholas Amerson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ariana Arriaga, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nicole Baez, Medical Coding Certificate Jonpaul Baptiste, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Christi Brannon, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; James Brooks, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Lindsey Castellano, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Benny Crisostomo, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kassandra Deleon, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Bradley Godsey, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nathaniel Grund, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Justin Habel, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Elizabeth Haskins, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Stephon Haynes, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Isaias Hernandez, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dakota Kiser, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Michael Manlove, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kendly Nicolas, Business Management and Leadership Certificate Jonathan Orellana, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kathryn Rios, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Hailey Starkey, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Julia Stickney, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Gardner Veronika Wojtas, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Goddard Emma Warren, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Great Bend Brittany Becker, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Zachary Becker, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Damian Calzada, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate Kaden Deines, Construction Technology Tuff Elliott-Wittman, Welding Technology Certificate Ruth Gonzalez-Duran, Business Management and Leadership Certificate Jaden Hartshorn, Plumbing Certificate Iris Ibarra, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Gabriale Jacobs, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Annely Partida, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Laura Patzner, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aide Reyes Sepulveda, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Hays Hayley Mulkey, Dietary Manager CertificateHesston Sophia Walters, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Hoisington Taelur Barnes, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Stacy Moore, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jarrett Shives, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Bailey Streit, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Shannon Donaldson, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aspyn King, A.A.S.Junction City Vaketta Arguello, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Breyanna Baize, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Christian Diaz Centeno, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Riley Gaer, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Junior Guillomette, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Zidania Henry, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Carol Hires, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Taryn Keller, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Madison Kirk, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Grace Lichtensteiger, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Erik Mitchell, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Whitney Mortimer, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Aidan Musser, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Brittani Nelson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Paul Santillo, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Timothy Sifuentes, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; KayLynn Spriggs, Medical Coding Certificate Isabella Stracuzzi, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dytasia Yates, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kloe Young, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas City CeAra Evans, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Tisha Voigts, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Larned Reed Russum, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Abby Towery, Medical Coding Certificate Alexandra Zook-Cochran, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lawrence Samuel Bond, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Leavenworth Tyler Lawlis, A.A.S. Jadon Nowlin, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Julian Petrik, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Deanna Reyes, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;LenexaLily Waters, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lyons Victoria Contreras, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kayston Cox, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Certificate Natascha Jaime, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Manhattan Adrienne Bryan, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Kylee Ezzio, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Sarah Luedders, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Erika Mazzella, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Dillon Schmidt, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Anna Teaney, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Molly Thomas, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nathan Thompson, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;McCracken Carson North, A.A.S.McPherson Joseph Miller, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution CertificateNess City Emiliano Araiza-Bejarano, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Olmitz Alexander Mater, Welding Technology CertificateOtis Eston Juno, Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution CertificatePerry Dallas Rhoads, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Riley Christopher Morgan, A.A.S.Russell Kylie Miller, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Nicholas Turner, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Salina Briceida Garcia, Welding Technology CertificateTimken Brandi Jecha, Medical Coding CertificateTopeka Kamea Rice, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Ayden Thompson, A.A.S.Ulysses Edgar Reyes, OSHA Safety and Health CertificateValley Center Derek Truman, Construction TechnologyVictoria Brooklyn Nowak, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Wellington Robin Westmoreland, A.A.S.White City Spencer Lewis, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Wichita Quartenay Braven, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Military Stationed Overseas Aaron Stevens, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chula Vista, Calif. Alexandra Rodriguez, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Long Beach, Calif. Tony Ty, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Taft, Calif. Samantha Guerrero, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ventura, Calif. Trent Dowler, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Denver, Colo.&nbsp; Joyce Amoako, A.A.S.Laporte, Colo.&nbsp; Bethany Henninger, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Daytona Beach, Fla. Megan Glazebrook, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Miramar, Fla. Kalil Murphy, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Riverview, Fla.&nbsp; Yolanda White, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Tallahassee, Fla. Jonathan Miller, Networking Security Specialist CertificateAttapulgus, Ga. Antonio Riles, A.A.S.&nbsp;Garden City, Ga. Brier Alexander, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Honolulu, Hawaii Tyler Trantham, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Greenfield, Ind.&nbsp; Delanie Janes, A.A.S.Needham, Mass.&nbsp; Aaron Camille, A.A.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Warren, Mass. Jonathan Cote, Dietary Manager CertificateGwynn Oak, Md. Joseph Jackson, Dietary Manager CertificateFenton, Mo. Tyler Milner, Dietary Manager CertificateKansas City, Mo. Quentin Williams, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lees Summit, Mo. Elijah Williams, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Platte City, Mo. Nathaniel Francis, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Omaha, Neb. Masa Kheir, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;White Sands Missile Range, N.M. Ivan Garcia, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Arkoma, Okla. Cecillia Poore, Dietary Manager CertificateManchester, Okla.&nbsp; Bridgette Hendrick, Dietary Manager CertificateAustin, Pa. Rachel Jeffers, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Columbia, S.C. Danaly Sosa, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Memphis, Tenn. Jennifer Jones, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Nashville, Tenn. Shane Rich, A.G.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Jacksboro, Texas Amber Clemons, A.A.S.Jacksboro, Texas Shae Clemons, A.A.S.Kingwood, Texas Amy Nehls, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fort Eustis, Va. Ryan Swift, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fredericksburg, Va. Jeffrey Berrigan, A.A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Triangle, Va. Princess Miriam Armstead, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;McKenna, Wash. Samantha McGuire, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Puyallup, Wash.&nbsp; Gary Roberts, Dietary Manager CertificateMilwaukee, Wisc. Ciara Rhodes, Medical Coding CertificateShorewood, Wisc. Emily Medley, A.S.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Australia Hatice Nur Kahraman, A.S.Belgium Loic Valentin Mabika Kanku Badibanga, A.A.Nigeria Maria Umoibang, A.S.

Barton Community College announces fall 2024 graduates

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce joined Ruhe Rituals in celebrating a milestone moment with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, February 7. Owner Danielle Hunter and her team welcomed Chamber members, clients, and community supporters to mark one year in business and their new Chamber membership.

Ruhe Rituals is offering an advanced med spa experience that blends cutting-edge skincare, body sculpting, and wellness treatments. With a strong focus on results-driven services clients can enjoy customized facials, chemical peels, massage therapy, body contouring, IV therapy, B12 injections, wood therapy, and infrared sauna therapy—all tailored to individual needs for a holistic approach to beauty and well-being.

Ruhe Rituals has served over 523 clients and are expanding their offerings. The business also earned 3rd Place in the IGNITE Rural Business Competition, securing funding to introduce its infrared sauna—a wellness innovation that enhances detoxification, relaxation, and overall health.

"We're excited to continue growing and providing even more advanced treatments to help people feel their best," said Danielle Hunter, owner of Ruhe Rituals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739817718577.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSThe Great Bend Chamber of Commerce joined Ruhe Rituals in celebrating a milestone moment with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, February 7. Owner Danielle Hunter and her team welcomed Chamber members, clients, and community supporters to mark one year in business and their new Chamber membership.Ruhe Rituals is offering an advanced med spa experience that blends cutting-edge skincare, body sculpting, and wellness treatments. With a strong focus on results-driven services clients can enjoy customized facials, chemical peels, massage therapy, body contouring, IV therapy, B12 injections, wood therapy, and infrared sauna therapy—all tailored to individual needs for a holistic approach to beauty and well-being.Ruhe Rituals has served over 523 clients and are expanding their offerings. The business also earned 3rd Place in the IGNITE Rural Business Competition, securing funding to introduce its infrared sauna—a wellness innovation that enhances detoxification, relaxation, and overall health."We're excited to continue growing and providing even more advanced treatments to help people feel their best," said Danielle Hunter, owner of Ruhe Rituals.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739817738592.jpeg" alt="Pictured from left to right: Amy Panzer, Maria Villanueva, Ibon Rincon, Danielle Hunter, Kassandra Eldridge" />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left to right: Amy Panzer, Maria Villanueva, Ibon Rincon, Danielle Hunter, Kassandra Eldridge</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ruhe Rituals celebrates anniversary with Great Bend Chamber

Great Bend City Council meeting Tuesday, Feb. 18&nbsp; - &nbsp;5 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers

The council meeting will be livestreamed for the public to view on the city council Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/.

C. Recognition of visitors and announcements &nbsp; &nbsp;The public is free to comment on items not listed on the agenda. Comments should be limited to three minutes.

&nbsp; &nbsp;1. Councilmember reports

&nbsp; &nbsp;2. Administrator's update

&nbsp; &nbsp;3. CVB / Community Coordinator report

&nbsp; &nbsp;4. Mud volleyball and fireworks decisions at Party in the Park &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; It was discussed on where to place mud volleyball for the 2025 Party in the Park. A motion will be presented to bring mud volleyball back to its original location in Veterans Memorial Park and to eliminate the fireworks portion of Party in the Park.

&nbsp; &nbsp;5. Ladder truck &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion will be presented to approve the bid from Hays Fire Equipment for a ladder truck for the Great Bend Fire Department for $1,590,023.

&nbsp; &nbsp;6. Executive session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; An executive session has been requested to discuss personnel matters concerning non-elected personnel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732118263548.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend City Council meeting Tuesday, Feb. 18&nbsp; - &nbsp;5 p.m. City Hall Council ChambersThe council meeting will be livestreamed for the public to view on the city council Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/.AgendaOpening: Pledge of AllegianceA. Consent agendaB. Old businessC. Recognition of visitors and announcements &nbsp; &nbsp;The public is free to comment on items not listed on the agenda. Comments should be limited to three minutes.D. New business&nbsp; &nbsp;1. Councilmember reports&nbsp; &nbsp;2. Administrator's update&nbsp; &nbsp;3. CVB / Community Coordinator report&nbsp; &nbsp;4. Mud volleyball and fireworks decisions at Party in the Park &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; It was discussed on where to place mud volleyball for the 2025 Party in the Park. A motion will be presented to bring mud volleyball back to its original location in Veterans Memorial Park and to eliminate the fireworks portion of Party in the Park.&nbsp; &nbsp;5. Ladder truck &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A motion will be presented to approve the bid from Hays Fire Equipment for a ladder truck for the Great Bend Fire Department for $1,590,023.&nbsp; &nbsp;6. Executive session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; An executive session has been requested to discuss personnel matters concerning non-elected personnel.Adjournment

Great Bend City Council meeting agenda (2/18)

BOOKED: David C. Pilgrim on Barton County District Court
warrant for failure to appear with bond set at $3,000 cash only.

BOOKED: Michael E. Krom on Barton County District Court
warrant for contempt of court, no bond. BCDC warrant for violation of
protective order with a bond set at $2,500 C/S.

RELEASED: Sasha Roseane Kirksey-Etim on Barton County
District Court warrant for probation violation, being transferred to Sedgwick
County.

RELEASED: Shawn P. Cundiff on BCDC case for probation
violation, time served in full.

BOOKED: Nicholas R. Christiansen on Barton County District
Court case for driving under the influence, improper turn, and failure to
signal within 100 feet, bond is set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Nicholas R. Christiansen on BCDC case for driving
under the influence, improper turn, and failure to signal within 100 feet. Bond
of $1,000 cash was posted.

RELEASED: Dezmon M. Sherwood on Barton County Court warrant
for probation violation, time served.

RELEASED: Eric T. Thiessen on BCDC case for felony driving
under the influence, parked in prohibited place, failure to furnish proof of
insurance and failure to obey license restrictions after posting $40,000 surety
bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

BOOKED: Jiselle Moore on Barton County District Court case
for driving while suspended and failure to signal within 100 feet with a $1,000
C/S.

BOOKED: Guillermo Resendiz-Diaz Jr. on Barton County
District Court case for driving under the influence and failure to stop with
bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Devon Keith on Great Bend Municipal Court case for
DUI, no proof of insurance, criminal damage, interference with a law
enforcement officer, duty of driver, unattended vehicle, bond set at $1,000
C/S.

RELEASED: Jiselle Moore on BCDC case number for driving
while suspended and failure to signal with 100 feet with a surety bond of
$1,000.

RELEASED: Guillermo Resendiz-Diaz Jr. on BCDC case for
driving under the influence, and failure to stop after posting a $1,000 surety
bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

BOOKED: Maricela Robles-Mercado on BCDC case for criminal
damage with a bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Gary W. Sumner Jr. on KDOC on an arrest and detain
warrant for parole violation, no bond. BCDC warrant for criminal threat, bond
set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Amanda L. Thompson on Thomas County District Court
warrant for probation violation, no bond.

RELEASED: Devon Keith on Great Bend Municipal Court case for
DUI, no proof of insurance, criminal damage, interference with a law
enforcement officer, duty of driver, unattended vehicle after posting a $1,000
surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

RELEASED: Maricela Robles-Mercado on BCDC case for criminal
damage after posting a $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>2/14BOOKED: David C. Pilgrim on Barton County District Court
warrant for failure to appear with bond set at $3,000 cash only.BOOKED: Michael E. Krom on Barton County District Court
warrant for contempt of court, no bond. BCDC warrant for violation of
protective order with a bond set at $2,500 C/S.RELEASED: Sasha Roseane Kirksey-Etim on Barton County
District Court warrant for probation violation, being transferred to Sedgwick
County.RELEASED: Shawn P. Cundiff on BCDC case for probation
violation, time served in full.2/15BOOKED: Nicholas R. Christiansen on Barton County District
Court case for driving under the influence, improper turn, and failure to
signal within 100 feet, bond is set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Nicholas R. Christiansen on BCDC case for driving
under the influence, improper turn, and failure to signal within 100 feet. Bond
of $1,000 cash was posted.RELEASED: Dezmon M. Sherwood on Barton County Court warrant
for probation violation, time served.RELEASED: Eric T. Thiessen on BCDC case for felony driving
under the influence, parked in prohibited place, failure to furnish proof of
insurance and failure to obey license restrictions after posting $40,000 surety
bond through Ace Bail Bonding.2/16BOOKED: Jiselle Moore on Barton County District Court case
for driving while suspended and failure to signal within 100 feet with a $1,000
C/S.BOOKED: Guillermo Resendiz-Diaz Jr. on Barton County
District Court case for driving under the influence and failure to stop with
bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Devon Keith on Great Bend Municipal Court case for
DUI, no proof of insurance, criminal damage, interference with a law
enforcement officer, duty of driver, unattended vehicle, bond set at $1,000
C/S.RELEASED: Jiselle Moore on BCDC case number for driving
while suspended and failure to signal with 100 feet with a surety bond of
$1,000.RELEASED: Guillermo Resendiz-Diaz Jr. on BCDC case for
driving under the influence, and failure to stop after posting a $1,000 surety
bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.2/17BOOKED: Maricela Robles-Mercado on BCDC case for criminal
damage with a bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Gary W. Sumner Jr. on KDOC on an arrest and detain
warrant for parole violation, no bond. BCDC warrant for criminal threat, bond
set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Amanda L. Thompson on Thomas County District Court
warrant for probation violation, no bond.RELEASED: Devon Keith on Great Bend Municipal Court case for
DUI, no proof of insurance, criminal damage, interference with a law
enforcement officer, duty of driver, unattended vehicle after posting a $1,000
surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.RELEASED: Maricela Robles-Mercado on BCDC case for criminal
damage after posting a $5,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonding.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (2/14 - 2/17)

Barton Community College will host a blood drive from 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. Feb. 24 in the Kirkman Practice Gym. Donors will receive a $15 gift e-gift card from the American Red Cross to the merchant of their choice (to be mailed to the donor within 30 days of donation).&nbsp;

Donors are encouraged to set an appointment using the American Red Cross app, which is available on Google Play or the Apple Store, or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=BartonCountyCC" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">redcross.org</a>. Donors can also fill out a rapid pass application via the app or website on the day of donation prior to their arrival at the donation location, which can reduce the time they spend at the blood drive by up to 15 minutes. Walk-ins will still be accepted, but the new system is designed to make the process more streamlined.

For more information, contact Barton Campus Nurse Jenni Bauer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bauerj@bartonccc.edu">bauerj@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9233.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739547180920.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton Community College will host a blood drive from 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. Feb. 24 in the Kirkman Practice Gym. Donors will receive a $15 gift e-gift card from the American Red Cross to the merchant of their choice (to be mailed to the donor within 30 days of donation).&nbsp;Donors are encouraged to set an appointment using the American Red Cross app, which is available on Google Play or the Apple Store, or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=BartonCountyCC" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">redcross.org</a>. Donors can also fill out a rapid pass application via the app or website on the day of donation prior to their arrival at the donation location, which can reduce the time they spend at the blood drive by up to 15 minutes. Walk-ins will still be accepted, but the new system is designed to make the process more streamlined.For more information, contact Barton Campus Nurse Jenni Bauer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bauerj@bartonccc.edu">bauerj@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9233.

$15 gift cards at Barton Community College blood drive

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

In May 2024, the USD 428 Board of Education approved the R.I.S.E program to focus on relationships, instruction, safety, and emotional well-being. The program keeps students from select elementary schools who would have received out-of-school suspension for behavior in an educational setting. At Monday's board meeting, Park Elementary School Principal Kelsey Sciacca, who helped bring the program to Great Bend, shared positive results.

"Obviously, every kid is different," she said. "I had one come right back. She decided to phsyically assault another student so she went right back the next day to R.I.S.E. and she did not like that. She's not been back since and she's doing amazing in our school. It definitely takes a lot but we're seeing a lot of good things."

Parents have overwhelmingly preferred their kids go to the R.I.S.E. program over out-of-school suspension. So far, nine students have gone through the program. Three were incorporated back into their classrooms, and one no longer requires any additional support. Superintendent Khris Thexton said the investment from staff has been worth it.

"This was a big investment, but it was one of those where we had students who needed that support, and we have staff members who needed that opportunity," he said. "It's been a very big improvement on helping kids understand their behaviors and also come back to their classrooms."

Right now, the program is only available at Park, Eisenhower, and Lincoln elementaries. Instead of being suspended, students are taken to a smaller group setting at the former Washington Elementary for a designed four-week program. The program is garnering attention from other districts. Newton officials recently visited Great Bend to see the program first-hand.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715702014780.jpeg" alt="

Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley and Park Elementary Principal Kelsey Sciacca present information about R.I.S.E.&nbsp; during a USD 420 Board of Education meeting in May 2024." />
 <figcaption>

Barton County Special Services Director Ashley Riley and Park Elementary Principal Kelsey Sciacca present information about R.I.S.E.&nbsp; during a USD 420 Board of Education meeting in May 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn May 2024, the USD 428 Board of Education approved the R.I.S.E program to focus on relationships, instruction, safety, and emotional well-being. The program keeps students from select elementary schools who would have received out-of-school suspension for behavior in an educational setting. At Monday's board meeting, Park Elementary School Principal Kelsey Sciacca, who helped bring the program to Great Bend, shared positive results."Obviously, every kid is different," she said. "I had one come right back. She decided to phsyically assault another student so she went right back the next day to R.I.S.E. and she did not like that. She's not been back since and she's doing amazing in our school. It definitely takes a lot but we're seeing a lot of good things."Parents have overwhelmingly preferred their kids go to the R.I.S.E. program over out-of-school suspension. So far, nine students have gone through the program. Three were incorporated back into their classrooms, and one no longer requires any additional support. Superintendent Khris Thexton said the investment from staff has been worth it."This was a big investment, but it was one of those where we had students who needed that support, and we have staff members who needed that opportunity," he said. "It's been a very big improvement on helping kids understand their behaviors and also come back to their classrooms."Right now, the program is only available at Park, Eisenhower, and Lincoln elementaries. Instead of being suspended, students are taken to a smaller group setting at the former Washington Elementary for a designed four-week program. The program is garnering attention from other districts. Newton officials recently visited Great Bend to see the program first-hand.

USD 428 seeing benefits in alternative to suspensions 

During a work session in January, the Great Bend City Council discussed
plans on bringing back the mud volleyball tournament during Party in the Park
to Veterans Memorial Park. Last year, the city moved the tournament to the
fairgrounds due to the recently installed splash pad at Vets Park.
The council was in favor of looking into moving the mud volleyball to nearby
Amber Meadows subdivision vacant lots, just to the north of Vets Park.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/09bc0a56-ba2b-482d-a646-8bd81dbc31e5">RELATED STORY: Great Bend trying to bring back mud volleyball to Vets Park</a>

Mud
volleyball brings 1,000 to 2,000 people to the event. 
Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes will make a recommendation to
bring mud volleyball back to its original location at Vets. The motion will be
presented at Tuesday’s meeting which starts at 5 p.m. at City Hall.


Hayes will also suggest eliminating the fireworks portion of Party in the Park.
Each year, the city spends $5,000 on a firework display. The elimination will
save funds and open the area for the day to have other activities instead of it
being blocked off.


Party in the Park takes place the second Saturday in August.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739819793277.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostDuring a work session in January, the Great Bend City Council discussed
plans on bringing back the mud volleyball tournament during Party in the Park
to Veterans Memorial Park. Last year, the city moved the tournament to the
fairgrounds due to the recently installed splash pad at Vets Park.
The council was in favor of looking into moving the mud volleyball to nearby
Amber Meadows subdivision vacant lots, just to the north of Vets Park.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/09bc0a56-ba2b-482d-a646-8bd81dbc31e5">RELATED STORY: Great Bend trying to bring back mud volleyball to Vets Park</a>Mud
volleyball brings 1,000 to 2,000 people to the event. 
Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes will make a recommendation to
bring mud volleyball back to its original location at Vets. The motion will be
presented at Tuesday’s meeting which starts at 5 p.m. at City Hall.
Hayes will also suggest eliminating the fireworks portion of Party in the Park.
Each year, the city spends $5,000 on a firework display. The elimination will
save funds and open the area for the day to have other activities instead of it
being blocked off.
Party in the Park takes place the second Saturday in August.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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