With fertilizer one of the most expensive components of your cropping system, it is increasingly important for producers to properly manage their agricultural inputs. To address the topic of fertility management, K-State Research and Extension, has scheduled four regional programs during the month of January 2025. These schools have been designed to help producers understand the fertilizer soil relationships to achieve a greater return from an investment in fertilizer especially in this farm environment.

January 28 – Russell – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – 4-H Building

January 29 – Osborne – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – United Christian Church

January 29 – Rush Center – 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – Rush Center Township Hall

January 30 – Sharon Springs – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (MT) – Community Activity Building

The schools will be presented by Dr. Dave Franzen, North Dakota retired agronomist and Dr. Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, KSU Fertility specialist along with local District Extension Agents. Topics will include research findings of Soil biological products, New K-State Fertility Recommendations with emphasis on Application Methods, Soil sampling tips and a question and answer session. So be sure and bring all your questions with you! 2.5 CCA credits have been applied for.

Lunch will be provided following the programs thanks to our generous sponsors. There is no cost for the schools, however, pre-registration is requested by Friday, January 24 for all schools either online, https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cTszCQUOMzQkjZA, or at your local Extension office. A minimum of 10 pre-registered producers are needed to hold each of the schools. Hope to see you there!

<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 fertilizer one of the most expensive components of your cropping system, it is increasingly important for producers to properly manage their agricultural inputs. To address the topic of fertility management, K-State Research and Extension, has scheduled four regional programs during the month of January 2025. These schools have been designed to help producers understand the fertilizer soil relationships to achieve a greater return from an investment in fertilizer especially in this farm environment.The meetings schedule is the following:January 28 – Russell – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – 4-H BuildingJanuary 29 – Osborne – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – United Christian ChurchJanuary 29 – Rush Center – 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – Rush Center Township HallJanuary 30 – Sharon Springs – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (MT) – Community Activity BuildingThe schools will be presented by Dr. Dave Franzen, North Dakota retired agronomist and Dr. Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, KSU Fertility specialist along with local District Extension Agents. Topics will include research findings of Soil biological products, New K-State Fertility Recommendations with emphasis on Application Methods, Soil sampling tips and a question and answer session. So be sure and bring all your questions with you! 2.5 CCA credits have been applied for.Lunch will be provided following the programs thanks to our generous sponsors. There is no cost for the schools, however, pre-registration is requested by Friday, January 24 for all schools either online, https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cTszCQUOMzQkjZA, or at your local Extension office. A minimum of 10 pre-registered producers are needed to hold each of the schools. Hope to see you there!

CAMPBELL: Soil fertility schools, pre-registration by Friday

The Barton Community College basketball teams will play at Hutchinson on Wednesday, Jan. 22.

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

Tip-off from Hutchinson is at 5:30 p.m. for the women's game 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 play at Hutchinson on Wednesday, Jan. 22.You can listen to the broadcast on 104.3 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://b1043.net/">HERE</a>.Tip-off from Hutchinson is at 5:30 p.m. for the women's game with the men's game to follow at 7:30 p.m.

🎧Listen LIVE: Barton 🏀 at Hutchinson

Barton County has been chosen to receive $6,442.00 in Phase 42 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county. These federal funds are made available through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program.

Barton County was selected by a National Board that is chaired by the U. S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency and consists of representatives from American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, The Jewish Federations of North America, The Salvation Army and United Way Worldwide. The goal of this program is to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country.

A Local Board made up of Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, The Salvation Army, Red Cross, Barton Co Emergency Aid, Family Crisis Center, Central Plains United Way will determine how the funds awarded to Barton County are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service agencies in the area. The Local Board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive these funds and any additional funds made available under this phase of the program.

Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private voluntary non-profits or units of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an accounting system, 4) practice nondiscrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a private voluntary organization, have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.

Barton County has distributed Emergency Food and Shelter funds previously with Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, The Salvation Army, Family Crisis Center and the Barton County Emergency Aid. These agencies were responsible for providing meals and lodging for those in need, in addition to assistance with rent and energy bills with funding provided in the Emergency Food and Shelter Program’s last phase of funding.

Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds should contact Marci Smith at Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, 705 Ballinger St., Garden City, KS 67846 620-277-9588 for an application. A separate application must be completed for each phase. The deadline for applications to be received is February 7, 2025.

Barton County has been chosen to receive $6,442.00 in Phase 42 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county. These federal funds are made available through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)/Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program.Barton County was selected by a National Board that is chaired by the U. S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency and consists of representatives from American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, The Jewish Federations of North America, The Salvation Army and United Way Worldwide. The goal of this program is to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country.A Local Board made up of Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, The Salvation Army, Red Cross, Barton Co Emergency Aid, Family Crisis Center, Central Plains United Way will determine how the funds awarded to Barton County are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service agencies in the area. The Local Board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive these funds and any additional funds made available under this phase of the program.Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private voluntary non-profits or units of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an accounting system, 4) practice nondiscrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a private voluntary organization, have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.Barton County has distributed Emergency Food and Shelter funds previously with Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, The Salvation Army, Family Crisis Center and the Barton County Emergency Aid. These agencies were responsible for providing meals and lodging for those in need, in addition to assistance with rent and energy bills with funding provided in the Emergency Food and Shelter Program’s last phase of funding.Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds should contact Marci Smith at Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, 705 Ballinger St., Garden City, KS 67846 620-277-9588 for an application. A separate application must be completed for each phase. The deadline for applications to be received is February 7, 2025.

Barton Co. agencies can apply for emergency food & shelter funds

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Media's Cole Reif and Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley and Assistant Engineer&nbsp;Sreehitha Kadiyala that aired Jan. 22, 2025.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Media's Cole Reif and Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley and Assistant Engineer&nbsp;Sreehitha Kadiyala that aired Jan. 22, 2025.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Public Works Cauley & Kadiyala" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=i6xd9-17c22b6-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Public Works Cauley & Kadiyala

From Clara Barton Medical Clinic...

Clara Barton Medical Clinic is expanding its mental health therapy services with the addition of Sarah Vonfeldt, LMSW, to its clinical team. As a clinical social worker, Vonfeldt is eager to bring her knowledge and dedication to serving the Central Kansas community.

A Bunker Hill native, Vonfeldt earned her Bachelor of Social Work in 2018 and her Master of Social Work in 2021 from Fort Hays State University. She is particularly devoted to supporting women and families through the perinatal period (pre- and post-pregnancy), completing certificate courses with Perinatal Support International.

Vonfeldt resides in Russell with her husband, Michael, and their two children. Both she and Michael are lifelong Russell County residents, and they love raising their children in the same area where they grew up. Together, they enjoy camping, kayaking, cooking, and making memories with extended family and friends.

“I love our small communities because of the hard-working and resourceful people,” said Vonfeldt. “I want to see these towns thrive for many more generations. I was raised to care for my home and neighbors.”

At Clara Barton Medical Center, Vonfeldt looks forward to collaborating with a team in a wellness-focused environment. She finds building trusting relationships with patients to be one of the most rewarding aspects of her work and emphasizes the importance of rest for overall health and well-being.

“We are so excited to welcome Sarah to our Clara Barton team,” said Shayla Cook, Clinic Administrator. “Sarah’s friendly and compassionate demeanor, coupled with her positive energy, makes her the perfect fit. Her passion for providing mental health services will have a tremendous impact on the rural communities we serve, and we couldn’t be more grateful to have her on board.”

Vonfeldt works with those experiencing a variety of mental health issues and is now accepting patients at Clara Barton Medical Clinics in Hoisington and Russell. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 620-653-2386.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737556684798.jpeg" alt="Sarah Vonfeldt, LMSW" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Vonfeldt, LMSW</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSFrom Clara Barton Medical Clinic...Clara Barton Medical Clinic is expanding its mental health therapy services with the addition of Sarah Vonfeldt, LMSW, to its clinical team. As a clinical social worker, Vonfeldt is eager to bring her knowledge and dedication to serving the Central Kansas community.A Bunker Hill native, Vonfeldt earned her Bachelor of Social Work in 2018 and her Master of Social Work in 2021 from Fort Hays State University. She is particularly devoted to supporting women and families through the perinatal period (pre- and post-pregnancy), completing certificate courses with Perinatal Support International.Vonfeldt resides in Russell with her husband, Michael, and their two children. Both she and Michael are lifelong Russell County residents, and they love raising their children in the same area where they grew up. Together, they enjoy camping, kayaking, cooking, and making memories with extended family and friends.“I love our small communities because of the hard-working and resourceful people,” said Vonfeldt. “I want to see these towns thrive for many more generations. I was raised to care for my home and neighbors.”At Clara Barton Medical Center, Vonfeldt looks forward to collaborating with a team in a wellness-focused environment. She finds building trusting relationships with patients to be one of the most rewarding aspects of her work and emphasizes the importance of rest for overall health and well-being.“We are so excited to welcome Sarah to our Clara Barton team,” said Shayla Cook, Clinic Administrator. “Sarah’s friendly and compassionate demeanor, coupled with her positive energy, makes her the perfect fit. Her passion for providing mental health services will have a tremendous impact on the rural communities we serve, and we couldn’t be more grateful to have her on board.”Vonfeldt works with those experiencing a variety of mental health issues and is now accepting patients at Clara Barton Medical Clinics in Hoisington and Russell. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 620-653-2386.

Clara Barton Medical Clinic welcomes Sarah Vonfeldt, LMSW

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (1/21)

At 2:39 a.m. an armed robbery was reported at 3907 Broadway.

At 7:17 a.m. an accident was reported at 477 N. Washington
Avenue.

At 10:32 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 811 W. US
56 Highway.

At 11:49 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at D Street
&amp; E. Front Street in Claflin.

At 2:17 p.m. a theft was reported at 515 SE 70 Avenue in
Ellinwood.

At 5:11 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 350 SE 80
Avenue in Ellinwood. 

At 6:05 p.m. a theft was reported at 1312 NE 50 Road in
Ellinwood.

At 11:09 p.m. a report of hemorrhage/lacerations was made at
the Barton County Detention.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (1/21)

At 2:39 a.m. an armed robbery suspect was a male wearing a
light gray hoodie, ball cap and a face mask. Suspect at 3907 Broadway Avenue
had a larger build.

At 10:32 a.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane was
reported at 811 W. US 56 Highway.

At 11:58 a.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; NW K-96 Highway.

At 12:26 p.m. an unknown subject taking items from her
residence was reported at 309 Chestnut.

At 7:52 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 2701 10th
Street.

At 10:10 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1412 Hoover.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (1/21)Armed RobberyAt 2:39 a.m. an armed robbery was reported at 3907 Broadway.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:17 a.m. an accident was reported at 477 N. Washington
Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:32 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 811 W. US
56 Highway.At 11:49 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at D Street
&amp; E. Front Street in Claflin.TheftAt 2:17 p.m. a theft was reported at 515 SE 70 Avenue in
Ellinwood.Breathing ProblemsAt 5:11 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 350 SE 80
Avenue in Ellinwood. TheftAt 6:05 p.m. a theft was reported at 1312 NE 50 Road in
Ellinwood.Hemorrhage / LacerationsAt 11:09 p.m. a report of hemorrhage/lacerations was made at
the Barton County Detention.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (1/21)Armed RobberyAt 2:39 a.m. an armed robbery suspect was a male wearing a
light gray hoodie, ball cap and a face mask. Suspect at 3907 Broadway Avenue
had a larger build.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:32 a.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane was
reported at 811 W. US 56 Highway.Injury AccidentAt 11:58 a.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; NW K-96 Highway.Burglary / Not in ProgressAt 12:26 p.m. an unknown subject taking items from her
residence was reported at 309 Chestnut.Traffic ArrestAt 7:52 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 2701 10th
Street.Diabetic ProblemsAt 10:10 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1412 Hoover.

Cop Shop (1/21)

1/21 BOOKED: Tagan J. Moss-Barrett on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: James J. Kimbrough II on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Brake Light, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Adam B. Collinge on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with LEO and Drunk Pedestrian, on 48-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Eulalio Barrera-Jimon on Great Bend Municipal Court case for DUI, No Insurance, No Driver's License, and Illegal U-Turn, on 48-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: James J. Kimbrough II on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Brake Light, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242247715.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>1/21 BOOKED: Tagan J. Moss-Barrett on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: James J. Kimbrough II on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Brake Light, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Adam B. Collinge on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Interference with LEO and Drunk Pedestrian, on 48-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Eulalio Barrera-Jimon on Great Bend Municipal Court case for DUI, No Insurance, No Driver's License, and Illegal U-Turn, on 48-hour OR bond.RELEASED: James J. Kimbrough II on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Brake Light, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (1/21)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The legislators just have blinders on. That was the message Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan shared with the board of commissioners Tuesday morning seeking its support on behalf of the Kansas County Treasurers Association (KCTA). County treasurers have long complained their offices run at a financial loss when doing work for the state's Department of Revenue. The KCTA is sponsoring a bill that could help offset those losses.

"This year, motor vehicle ended up approximately $50,000 in the hole," Jordan said. "Next year, I'm projecting about $64,000 in the hole. The Kansas Treasurers Association, we're going back to the legislators to try to get that fee increased. This year, we're going to try and do a $5 title fee increase and $5 registration fee increase."

Currently, the state allows counties to charge $2.50 as a user fee when patrons use the treasurer's office in person. More patrons are using mail service now, which costs the counties additional money. By raising the fee, Jordan said all residents who register a vehicle would be paying for the services, not just landowners in the county.

"If we don't get this to raise, you guys are going to have to raise my budget, or I'm going to have to come to you and get more money, so all the taxpayers are going to pay more money," he said.

State legislators have previously refused to raise the fee because not all counties charge the $2.50 currently allowed. The KCTA plans to present the bill to legislators in February.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715699229600.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe legislators just have blinders on. That was the message Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan shared with the board of commissioners Tuesday morning seeking its support on behalf of the Kansas County Treasurers Association (KCTA). County treasurers have long complained their offices run at a financial loss when doing work for the state's Department of Revenue. The KCTA is sponsoring a bill that could help offset those losses."This year, motor vehicle ended up approximately $50,000 in the hole," Jordan said. "Next year, I'm projecting about $64,000 in the hole. The Kansas Treasurers Association, we're going back to the legislators to try to get that fee increased. This year, we're going to try and do a $5 title fee increase and $5 registration fee increase."Currently, the state allows counties to charge $2.50 as a user fee when patrons use the treasurer's office in person. More patrons are using mail service now, which costs the counties additional money. By raising the fee, Jordan said all residents who register a vehicle would be paying for the services, not just landowners in the county."If we don't get this to raise, you guys are going to have to raise my budget, or I'm going to have to come to you and get more money, so all the taxpayers are going to pay more money," he said.State legislators have previously refused to raise the fee because not all counties charge the $2.50 currently allowed. The KCTA plans to present the bill to legislators in February.

Barton Co. Treasurer asks for commission support on fee legislation

What do you want to be when you grow up? It's the question everyone was asked at some point in their life. Barton Community College is trying to provide some answers. Director of Early College Operations Karly Little said the Barton Career Fair returns to the campus on Friday, Feb. 7.

"We've been hosting this event since 2016 and it just keeps growing," she said. "It is such a fun event. We invited 8-12 graders to come to campus. The entire time they're out there, they explore careers."

Students choose a track and explore four careers in that track. They can choose from professions in agriculture, mechanics, carpentry, natural gas, welding, medicine, business, marketing, and many more.

"Every year, we try to bring in more and more careers to get students interested in things they may not even know things are options for them in the future," Little said. "Some of these jobs they don't know exist, they can get a short-term certificate or degree with Barton and go straight into the workforce making a great living wage."

Students will attend four 20-minute sessions in the track. They are guided from track to track by Barton staff and faculty, along with advisory board members from the community.

"The new format of the event where we guide the group from session to session has really opened it up for homeschool audiences," said Little. "We didn't used to be able to incorporate students coming on their own very well but now with this format we can. That's a really exciting change we've made over the last couple of years."

The high school career fair will take place from 8-11 a.m. Eighth graders will follow from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event is free and snacks and drinks will be provided but lunch will not so plan accordingly.

In the final session of the day, students will meet with a career life panel made up of current Barton students and student ambassadors who will answer questions about what it's like to attend Barton.

Interested parties can register through their schools or as individuals. The deadline to register is Jan. 24. Read more about the <a href="https://www.bartonccc.edu/highschool/cte-fair">Career Fair here.</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=jzFwT5Y5jEGhyumzq5b4FNoObP_xrnFNo8FfHEHOW9ZUQkFIRTM4TlBDWTZMSTlPNTJOTFBXTDYzMS4u">CLICK HERE</a> to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737491035257.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostWhat do you want to be when you grow up? It's the question everyone was asked at some point in their life. Barton Community College is trying to provide some answers. Director of Early College Operations Karly Little said the Barton Career Fair returns to the campus on Friday, Feb. 7."We've been hosting this event since 2016 and it just keeps growing," she said. "It is such a fun event. We invited 8-12 graders to come to campus. The entire time they're out there, they explore careers."Students choose a track and explore four careers in that track. They can choose from professions in agriculture, mechanics, carpentry, natural gas, welding, medicine, business, marketing, and many more."Every year, we try to bring in more and more careers to get students interested in things they may not even know things are options for them in the future," Little said. "Some of these jobs they don't know exist, they can get a short-term certificate or degree with Barton and go straight into the workforce making a great living wage."Students will attend four 20-minute sessions in the track. They are guided from track to track by Barton staff and faculty, along with advisory board members from the community."The new format of the event where we guide the group from session to session has really opened it up for homeschool audiences," said Little. "We didn't used to be able to incorporate students coming on their own very well but now with this format we can. That's a really exciting change we've made over the last couple of years."The high school career fair will take place from 8-11 a.m. Eighth graders will follow from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event is free and snacks and drinks will be provided but lunch will not so plan accordingly.In the final session of the day, students will meet with a career life panel made up of current Barton students and student ambassadors who will answer questions about what it's like to attend Barton.Interested parties can register through their schools or as individuals. The deadline to register is Jan. 24. Read more about the <a href="https://www.bartonccc.edu/highschool/cte-fair">Career Fair here.</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=jzFwT5Y5jEGhyumzq5b4FNoObP_xrnFNo8FfHEHOW9ZUQkFIRTM4TlBDWTZMSTlPNTJOTFBXTDYzMS4u">CLICK HERE</a> to register.

Grades 8-12 welcome at Barton's Career Fair; registration deadline Jan. 24

Today Sunny, with a high near 38. North-northwest wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 16. Northwest wind around 10 mph.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 29. Northwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 13. Calm wind becoming south-southwest 5 to 7 mph after midnight.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 43. South-southwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 21.

Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 36.

Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 18.

Sunday Partly sunny, with a high near 33.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 17.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 41.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 22.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 38. North-northwest wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 16. Northwest wind around 10 mph.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 29. Northwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 13. Calm wind becoming south-southwest 5 to 7 mph after midnight.Friday Sunny, with a high near 43. South-southwest wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 21.Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 36.Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 18.Sunday Partly sunny, with a high near 33.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 17.Monday Sunny, with a high near 41.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 22.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Following a 33-4 record and a fourth-place finish at the national
tournament, the Barton Community College volleyball team was recognized during
last week’s Barton Trustees study session. The trip to Clarksville, Tennessee last
November for the NJCAA Tournament marked the 24th trip to nationals in
program history, and the best finish since the Cougars won the championship in
2003. 

Sophomore Phoebe Reyes, a two-time winner of the Jayhawk Conference
player of the year award, comes from the Dominican Republic and has committed
to play at the University of South Carolina next fall.


"In Great Bend, I always get to say hi to anyone whenever I go to Walmart," said Reyes. "I feel like it's great to have that experience. When I move to South Carolina, I won't get to have that experience. It's a bigger city and bigger school. Here in Great Bend, I feel like that's the best part of it. You get to know people. People will remember you as well as you will remember them."

Sophomore Mya Thompson, from Hutchinson, spoke about her time in Great Bend over the past two
years.


"I don't think I realized how much I would end up loving Great Bend and Barton," said Thompson. "Just getting to build relationships with girls from all over the world as well as teammates from right around me. I think something that makes our program really special is the fact that we do keep a number of Kansas kids in the program and bring in kids from all over the globe."

Barton has a 58-10 record of the last two years with both seasons ending with conference
championships.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737479849449.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFollowing a 33-4 record and a fourth-place finish at the national
tournament, the Barton Community College volleyball team was recognized during
last week’s Barton Trustees study session. The trip to Clarksville, Tennessee last
November for the NJCAA Tournament marked the 24th trip to nationals in
program history, and the best finish since the Cougars won the championship in
2003. Sophomore Phoebe Reyes, a two-time winner of the Jayhawk Conference
player of the year award, comes from the Dominican Republic and has committed
to play at the University of South Carolina next fall.
"In Great Bend, I always get to say hi to anyone whenever I go to Walmart," said Reyes. "I feel like it's great to have that experience. When I move to South Carolina, I won't get to have that experience. It's a bigger city and bigger school. Here in Great Bend, I feel like that's the best part of it. You get to know people. People will remember you as well as you will remember them."Sophomore Mya Thompson, from Hutchinson, spoke about her time in Great Bend over the past two
years.
"I don't think I realized how much I would end up loving Great Bend and Barton," said Thompson. "Just getting to build relationships with girls from all over the world as well as teammates from right around me. I think something that makes our program really special is the fact that we do keep a number of Kansas kids in the program and bring in kids from all over the globe."Barton has a 58-10 record of the last two years with both seasons ending with conference
championships.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton volleyball team recognized by college’s trustees 

The Great Bend Police Department is attempting to identify the individual depicted in the picture as part of an active investigation of an armed robbery at a local business on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at approximately 2:24 a.m. 

If you recognize the individual or have any information regarding any other investigation, you are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at <a href="http://p3tips.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3YOVQcvbeIlYDdBRiU5v_LkAIyMn_ncyYxQE_I6cD2N9ZMYkuDl_nH6Ys_aem_PJoyBrINNcv_iU7Q4Gtl6Q" target="_blank">p3tips.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737499239243.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Police Department is attempting to identify the individual depicted in the picture as part of an active investigation of an armed robbery at a local business on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at approximately 2:24 a.m. If you recognize the individual or have any information regarding any other investigation, you are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at <a href="http://p3tips.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3YOVQcvbeIlYDdBRiU5v_LkAIyMn_ncyYxQE_I6cD2N9ZMYkuDl_nH6Ys_aem_PJoyBrINNcv_iU7Q4Gtl6Q" target="_blank">p3tips.com</a>

Great Bend police looking for subject after armed robbery

The season for snow and ice is here, and with the change in weather, you may be concerned about falling. However, slippery conditions are only one factor contributing to fall risk. Other elements like balance, strength, and coordination can also play a part.

As you know, balance keeps you stable and on your feet. Your eyes, nervous system, and inner ears communicate to keep you upright. Intricate stabilizing muscles and core strength also work together for good balance.

So, what can you do to reduce your risk of falling?

Key practices for good balance include strength and flexibility training. These exercises work your muscles and engage the body’s full balance network, including the nervous system, vision, and inner ears. Keeping these systems in regular communication will help improve balance.

For example, strength training with dumbbells, resistance bands, or body weight can increase muscle mass and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Resistance exercises help build stabilizing muscles and increase movement control.

Unilateral movements also contribute to better balance by increasing the time spent on a single side of the body. These exercises focus on practicing balance and improving coordination while strengthening the body. Including unilateral movements such as walking, climbing stairs, riding a bike, or tai chi can help.

Flexibility training is another key component to improve posture and increase range of motion. When the body is tight, everyday tasks may seem difficult to complete. Bending over to tie shoes or reaching high into a cabinet can be challenging. However, yoga and daily stretching are two ways to work on flexibility that contribute to better balance.

The fear of falling is a legitimate concern for many older adults. In the United States, every 11 seconds a senior is treated in the emergency room due to a fall. These injuries can result in decreased mobility and loss of independence.

Improving balance includes regular strength and flexibility training. Incorporating these habits into your routine at least twice a week can help. Once you start, make it a habit because balance is a skill that requires practice. The good news is that it’s never too late to start!

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>The season for snow and ice is here, and with the change in weather, you may be concerned about falling. However, slippery conditions are only one factor contributing to fall risk. Other elements like balance, strength, and coordination can also play a part.As you know, balance keeps you stable and on your feet. Your eyes, nervous system, and inner ears communicate to keep you upright. Intricate stabilizing muscles and core strength also work together for good balance.So, what can you do to reduce your risk of falling?Key practices for good balance include strength and flexibility training. These exercises work your muscles and engage the body’s full balance network, including the nervous system, vision, and inner ears. Keeping these systems in regular communication will help improve balance.For example, strength training with dumbbells, resistance bands, or body weight can increase muscle mass and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Resistance exercises help build stabilizing muscles and increase movement control.Unilateral movements also contribute to better balance by increasing the time spent on a single side of the body. These exercises focus on practicing balance and improving coordination while strengthening the body. Including unilateral movements such as walking, climbing stairs, riding a bike, or tai chi can help.Flexibility training is another key component to improve posture and increase range of motion. When the body is tight, everyday tasks may seem difficult to complete. Bending over to tie shoes or reaching high into a cabinet can be challenging. However, yoga and daily stretching are two ways to work on flexibility that contribute to better balance.The fear of falling is a legitimate concern for many older adults. In the United States, every 11 seconds a senior is treated in the emergency room due to a fall. These injuries can result in decreased mobility and loss of independence.Improving balance includes regular strength and flexibility training. Incorporating these habits into your routine at least twice a week can help. Once you start, make it a habit because balance is a skill that requires practice. The good news is that it’s never too late to start!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: Practice good balance

Florence Nightingale was one of the great innovators in the nursing profession in the 19th century. More than 110 years after her death, her name is still associated with the medical field. Tuesday morning, Barton County Health Department Director Karen Winkelman appeared before the board of commissioners to renew the contract for Nightingale Notes software for electronic record keeping.

"This has been really good," Winkelman said. "It has saved staff time. We use it for documentation, data reports - we pull a lot of data off it for our grants - billing. We can scan documents in. We can generate reminders for different appointments or different things."

The health department has used the software for the past seven years. The county has paid for up to 23 licenses to be used by the department. Winkelman was able to reduce the 2025-26 subscription to 21 licenses for $30,715, down from $31,218 last year. The Barton County Health Department registered 1,085 new clients last year, which is similar to the increase in 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729189138974.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFlorence Nightingale was one of the great innovators in the nursing profession in the 19th century. More than 110 years after her death, her name is still associated with the medical field. Tuesday morning, Barton County Health Department Director Karen Winkelman appeared before the board of commissioners to renew the contract for Nightingale Notes software for electronic record keeping."This has been really good," Winkelman said. "It has saved staff time. We use it for documentation, data reports - we pull a lot of data off it for our grants - billing. We can scan documents in. We can generate reminders for different appointments or different things."The health department has used the software for the past seven years. The county has paid for up to 23 licenses to be used by the department. Winkelman was able to reduce the 2025-26 subscription to 21 licenses for $30,715, down from $31,218 last year. The Barton County Health Department registered 1,085 new clients last year, which is similar to the increase in 2023.

Barton Co. Health Department renews software contract for another year

Weather put a true damper on several of the major outdoor events last
year in Great Bend. After approximately 9,000 people attended the 2021 Great
Bend Airfest, less than 5,000 made it out to the 2024 show at the Great Bend
Municipal Airport due to weather. 

Hosting three days of airshows and
entertainment comes with a hefty price tag and a lot of effort in planning and
fundraising. Airport Manager Martin Miller said last September’s Airfest generated
roughly $273,000 in revenue while costing the city $272,000.


"With the business model and the demographics of Great Bend, versus the quality of show that's been coming to Great Bend...these shows are just as good as shows with 50,000 to 100,000 in attendance," said Miller. "We can't pull that, so we'll always be hampered by ticket sales. We may be hampered by sponsors...you know how this goes...everybody tries for sponsors."

Of the total revenue, just over $162,000 came from sponsorships and ticket
sales were around $60,000. 


During Monday’s work session, the Great Bend City Council was in favor of
continuing Airfest but instead of every three years, the weekend of shows will
be hosted every four years. Councilmember Cory Urban and the council agreed
that $50,000 will be set aside each year from the city’s budget to help with
the cost.


"The city is working with a $28 million budget every year," said Urban. "Can we not set $50,000 aside annually and in four years we have $200,000 to pay for the vast majority of the show? For all the things we spend money on, something like this is drawing people, reaching back historically, there's the kids' day...there's so many things that point to Great Bend when this happens."

Five Airfests have been hosted since starting in 2012. The next Great Bend
Airfest will take place in 2028.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721762720243.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWeather put a true damper on several of the major outdoor events last
year in Great Bend. After approximately 9,000 people attended the 2021 Great
Bend Airfest, less than 5,000 made it out to the 2024 show at the Great Bend
Municipal Airport due to weather. Hosting three days of airshows and
entertainment comes with a hefty price tag and a lot of effort in planning and
fundraising. Airport Manager Martin Miller said last September’s Airfest generated
roughly $273,000 in revenue while costing the city $272,000.
"With the business model and the demographics of Great Bend, versus the quality of show that's been coming to Great Bend...these shows are just as good as shows with 50,000 to 100,000 in attendance," said Miller. "We can't pull that, so we'll always be hampered by ticket sales. We may be hampered by sponsors...you know how this goes...everybody tries for sponsors."Of the total revenue, just over $162,000 came from sponsorships and ticket
sales were around $60,000. 
During Monday’s work session, the Great Bend City Council was in favor of
continuing Airfest but instead of every three years, the weekend of shows will
be hosted every four years. Councilmember Cory Urban and the council agreed
that $50,000 will be set aside each year from the city’s budget to help with
the cost.
"The city is working with a $28 million budget every year," said Urban. "Can we not set $50,000 aside annually and in four years we have $200,000 to pay for the vast majority of the show? For all the things we spend money on, something like this is drawing people, reaching back historically, there's the kids' day...there's so many things that point to Great Bend when this happens."Five Airfests have been hosted since starting in 2012. The next Great Bend
Airfest will take place in 2028.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Airfest will be hosted every four years now

1/20 BOOKED: Alberto Espino on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

RELEASED: Allen S. Templeton on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

RELEASED: Davis S. Sims on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant, after time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242247715.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>1/20 BOOKED: Alberto Espino on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.RELEASED: Allen S. Templeton on Barton County District Court case, after time served.RELEASED: Davis S. Sims on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant, after time served.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (1/20)

All denominations coming together for the greater good. That's the purpose behind the Ellinwood Area Churches Ministerial Alliance. The largest fundraiser for the Alliance each year is the Community Soup Supper.  Pastor Samuel Ryan with Ellinwood Community Church said the annual supper is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13. The food bank is always a focal point of the Alliance.

"A lot of those proceeds are going to our different ministries in the community," he said. "In regards to the food bank, it helps a lot of families and individuals in the Ellinwood area. We want to continue to be able to support them with the proceeds."

The soup supper will take place at the St. Joseph Parish Center, 110 W. 2nd Street in Ellinwood, and will feature chili or chicken noodles and a homemade dessert for a free-will donation. 

The Knights of Columbus will host its Soup Sampler on Sunday, Jan. 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Parish Center. For a free-will offering, attendees can try a variety of soups and get a dessert and drink. Dine-in and carry-out options are available. Proceeds support Knights of Columbus scholarships.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674731459647.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAll denominations coming together for the greater good. That's the purpose behind the Ellinwood Area Churches Ministerial Alliance. The largest fundraiser for the Alliance each year is the Community Soup Supper. Pastor Samuel Ryan with Ellinwood Community Church said the annual supper is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13. The food bank is always a focal point of the Alliance."A lot of those proceeds are going to our different ministries in the community," he said. "In regards to the food bank, it helps a lot of families and individuals in the Ellinwood area. We want to continue to be able to support them with the proceeds."The soup supper will take place at the St. Joseph Parish Center, 110 W. 2nd Street in Ellinwood, and will feature chili or chicken noodles and a homemade dessert for a free-will donation. The Knights of Columbus will host its Soup Sampler on Sunday, Jan. 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Parish Center. For a free-will offering, attendees can try a variety of soups and get a dessert and drink. Dine-in and carry-out options are available. Proceeds support Knights of Columbus scholarships.

Ellinwood's Community Soup Supper scheduled for Feb. 13

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post (Writer's note: The original story included figures that would be paid to area counties at $30 million to Pawnee and $33 million to Barton and Russell counties. That has been clarified as Invenergy's projections for near and long-term revenue supporting public services in those counties).

Kansas residents potentially impacted by a proposed National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor were not happy last year when the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced it was considering several Kansas counties in its Midwest-Plains Corridor last year. Neither were representatives of Invenergy, the Chicago-based firm behind the Grain Belt Express (GBX). Patrick Whitty, Invenergy's senior vice president of public affairs, spoke before a Kansas senate committee last Thursday.

"All of the facts I will address do not change the reality that this federal program has created significant and justifiable confusion, concern, and anger among Kansans," Whitty said. "We have heard extensive feedback from Kansans on this issue, including frustrations, especially around incomplete or no notice provided by DOE to landowners, as well as limited public comment timelines, not to mention the specter of federal eminent domain authority."

Whitty confirmed to senators that Invenergy plans on using an already-approved route for its line that will travel some 800 miles from Dodge City to Indiana. The Grain Belt Express will not require federal eminent domain and the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) line will directly benefit Kansas.

"In normal operating conditions, the line will move power from west to east, but a unique benefit of HVDC technology is the ability to precisely control power flows in both directions over a line," Whitty said. "As more severe weather emergencies impact regional power availability, Great Belt Express will have the ability to import power to Kansas from other regions in times of grid strain."

Since its inception in 2001, Invenergy has developed 207 projects and generated 33 gigawatts, or enough electricity to power 12 million homes. Invenergy's first project in Kansas was the Buckeye Wind Energy Center along I-70 which went online in 2015. The company has now completed three projects in Kansas, is currently building two more, and has others in development. The Grain Belt Express would be the longest transmission line built in the United States in 50 years, and will be the only grid to connect four regions.

"No infrastructure project will do more for the Kansas economy or do more to address the growing U.S. electric grid crisis than the Grain Belt Express," Whitty said. "This is the highest-capacity transmission line in the U.S. at five gigawatts, roughly equivalent to four nuclear power plants in capacity."

Invenergy plans to use local employees for the construction of the line. Two-thirds of technicians on the Buckeye project were graduates of the Cloud County program. More than 19,000 full-time construction jobs are planned for a 2-3 year period during the construction of Grain Belt. From years 11-50, the Express is expected to generate $500 million a year in economic benefit to the state. That would generate $178 million in property taxes for schools. 

Invenergy would pay $4 million in Construction Work in Progress payments to counties, and $7,500 per mile in construction impact mitigation payments. Invenergy projects near and long-term revenue supporting public services of $30 million for Pawnee County, and $33 million each Barton and Russell counties.

More highlights from Whitty's presentation:

- Towers will have a base of 40 x 40 feet. Ninety-nine percent of land in an easement will still be farmable.

 - The towers will be 130 to 160 feet high.

- HVDC lines require less infrastructure. An AC system moving the same amount of power at GBX would require three times as many lines and four times the number of towers.

- Ninety-six percent of landowners on the GBX path have already signed a contract with Invenergy. Of the remaining four percent of landowners, 1.8 have court-ordered agreements, and 1.9 percent have not signed a contract.

- Invenergy offers payment of $18,000 per-typical-structure on property.

- Landowners are compensated 300 percent of annual crop value in year one of construction.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626048437572.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post (Writer's note: The original story included figures that would be paid to area counties at $30 million to Pawnee and $33 million to Barton and Russell counties. That has been clarified as Invenergy's projections for near and long-term revenue supporting public services in those counties).Kansas residents potentially impacted by a proposed National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor were not happy last year when the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced it was considering several Kansas counties in its Midwest-Plains Corridor last year. Neither were representatives of Invenergy, the Chicago-based firm behind the Grain Belt Express (GBX). Patrick Whitty, Invenergy's senior vice president of public affairs, spoke before a Kansas senate committee last Thursday."All of the facts I will address do not change the reality that this federal program has created significant and justifiable confusion, concern, and anger among Kansans," Whitty said. "We have heard extensive feedback from Kansans on this issue, including frustrations, especially around incomplete or no notice provided by DOE to landowners, as well as limited public comment timelines, not to mention the specter of federal eminent domain authority."Whitty confirmed to senators that Invenergy plans on using an already-approved route for its line that will travel some 800 miles from Dodge City to Indiana. The Grain Belt Express will not require federal eminent domain and the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) line will directly benefit Kansas."In normal operating conditions, the line will move power from west to east, but a unique benefit of HVDC technology is the ability to precisely control power flows in both directions over a line," Whitty said. "As more severe weather emergencies impact regional power availability, Great Belt Express will have the ability to import power to Kansas from other regions in times of grid strain."Since its inception in 2001, Invenergy has developed 207 projects and generated 33 gigawatts, or enough electricity to power 12 million homes. Invenergy's first project in Kansas was the Buckeye Wind Energy Center along I-70 which went online in 2015. The company has now completed three projects in Kansas, is currently building two more, and has others in development. The Grain Belt Express would be the longest transmission line built in the United States in 50 years, and will be the only grid to connect four regions."No infrastructure project will do more for the Kansas economy or do more to address the growing U.S. electric grid crisis than the Grain Belt Express," Whitty said. "This is the highest-capacity transmission line in the U.S. at five gigawatts, roughly equivalent to four nuclear power plants in capacity."Invenergy plans to use local employees for the construction of the line. Two-thirds of technicians on the Buckeye project were graduates of the Cloud County program. More than 19,000 full-time construction jobs are planned for a 2-3 year period during the construction of Grain Belt. From years 11-50, the Express is expected to generate $500 million a year in economic benefit to the state. That would generate $178 million in property taxes for schools. Invenergy would pay $4 million in Construction Work in Progress payments to counties, and $7,500 per mile in construction impact mitigation payments. Invenergy projects near and long-term revenue supporting public services of $30 million for Pawnee County, and $33 million each Barton and Russell counties.More highlights from Whitty's presentation:- Towers will have a base of 40 x 40 feet. Ninety-nine percent of land in an easement will still be farmable. - The towers will be 130 to 160 feet high.- HVDC lines require less infrastructure. An AC system moving the same amount of power at GBX would require three times as many lines and four times the number of towers.- Ninety-six percent of landowners on the GBX path have already signed a contract with Invenergy. Of the remaining four percent of landowners, 1.8 have court-ordered agreements, and 1.9 percent have not signed a contract.- Invenergy offers payment of $18,000 per-typical-structure on property.- Landowners are compensated 300 percent of annual crop value in year one of construction.

Invenergy outlines GBX benefits to Barton, Russell, Pawnee residents

Today Sunny, with a high near 31. Wind chill values as low as -20. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph increasing to 12 to 17 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 17. South-southwest wind 8 to 15 mph becoming west-northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 39. North-northwest wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 17. Northwest wind around 9 mph.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 32. Northwest wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 13.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 42.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 20.

Saturday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 35.

Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 16.

Sunday Partly sunny, with a high near 31.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 15.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 35.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 31. Wind chill values as low as -20. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph increasing to 12 to 17 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 29 mph.Tonight Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 17. South-southwest wind 8 to 15 mph becoming west-northwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 24 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 39. North-northwest wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 17. Northwest wind around 9 mph.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 32. Northwest wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 13.Friday Sunny, with a high near 42.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 20.Saturday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 35.Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 16.Sunday Partly sunny, with a high near 31.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 15.Monday Sunny, with a high near 35.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The Great Bend City Council voted 5-1 Monday to deny the application for
a property tax exemption for Fuller Industries, Inc. 

In 2013, Fuller was granted
a 10-year exemption but it was terminated in 2021 after the property was sold
to new owners. Fuller requested a new application be retroactive back to 2021
as there are outstanding taxes on the property currently. 

Dale Hogg, with Fuller’s
Public Relations and Marketing, requested tabling the decision one month
because Fuller’s general manager and CEO were both out of town.


"We own the fact that we have some back taxes," said Hogg. "I met with Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan...he supports us and he's put things on hold until we get this whole process worked through. We are moving forward and expanding, but we're still feeling the hit from the COVID-19 pandemic where we lost a lot of our employees."

There are 118 employees at Fuller, a company that stated in their tax exemption
application that their revenue budget for 2023 was $24 million, up from $16
million in 2022.

"In July of 2023, the hailstorm ripped the roof off of our building and knocked us offline for a short time," said Hogg. "We're still playing catch-up from all of that."

Great Bend’s Administrative Review Committee recommended the tax exemption be
denied because the property already had an exemption, there are outstanding
taxes due and Fuller’s projected revenue for 2025 is substantial. Councilmember
Jolene Biggs echoed the committee’s findings.


"Fuller has been granted a 10-year exemption already," said Biggs. "When you go to the State and talk with them, they've never seen the same company get an exemption again. Technically, it's the same building and those kind of things."

Fuller has been in Great Bend since 1973. In 2012, ownership filed for Chapter
11 bankruptcy. According to the application, the company was eventually purchased
out of bankruptcy by Innovative Livestock Services (ILS). ILS was preparing to
file bankruptcy again in 2021 until current owner, GDI Inc., purchased the
assets and property.

"What has happened is other business have come to me and said 'can I feel out the paperwork and get a tax exemption?'" added Biggs. "This scenario could play out over and over again. I don't want to open a can of worms with all of the other businesses in town who are adding employees and equipment to their businesses."

Last spring, Great Bend officials noted Fuller Industries’ property tax the
previous year was approximately $190,000.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717622147284.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend City Council voted 5-1 Monday to deny the application for
a property tax exemption for Fuller Industries, Inc. In 2013, Fuller was granted
a 10-year exemption but it was terminated in 2021 after the property was sold
to new owners. Fuller requested a new application be retroactive back to 2021
as there are outstanding taxes on the property currently. Dale Hogg, with Fuller’s
Public Relations and Marketing, requested tabling the decision one month
because Fuller’s general manager and CEO were both out of town.
"We own the fact that we have some back taxes," said Hogg. "I met with Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan...he supports us and he's put things on hold until we get this whole process worked through. We are moving forward and expanding, but we're still feeling the hit from the COVID-19 pandemic where we lost a lot of our employees."There are 118 employees at Fuller, a company that stated in their tax exemption
application that their revenue budget for 2023 was $24 million, up from $16
million in 2022."In July of 2023, the hailstorm ripped the roof off of our building and knocked us offline for a short time," said Hogg. "We're still playing catch-up from all of that."Great Bend’s Administrative Review Committee recommended the tax exemption be
denied because the property already had an exemption, there are outstanding
taxes due and Fuller’s projected revenue for 2025 is substantial. Councilmember
Jolene Biggs echoed the committee’s findings.
"Fuller has been granted a 10-year exemption already," said Biggs. "When you go to the State and talk with them, they've never seen the same company get an exemption again. Technically, it's the same building and those kind of things."Fuller has been in Great Bend since 1973. In 2012, ownership filed for Chapter
11 bankruptcy. According to the application, the company was eventually purchased
out of bankruptcy by Innovative Livestock Services (ILS). ILS was preparing to
file bankruptcy again in 2021 until current owner, GDI Inc., purchased the
assets and property."What has happened is other business have come to me and said 'can I feel out the paperwork and get a tax exemption?'" added Biggs. "This scenario could play out over and over again. I don't want to open a can of worms with all of the other businesses in town who are adding employees and equipment to their businesses."Last spring, Great Bend officials noted Fuller Industries’ property tax the
previous year was approximately $190,000.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend council denies Fuller Industries another tax exemption

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by Travis Dean&nbsp;Barleen, 40, Salina, was eastbound on Interstate 70 one half mile east of Kansas 232 in the passing lane. The pickup then moved to the driving lane and rear-ended a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Cody Micheal&nbsp;Stephenson, 36,&nbsp;Muskogee, Oklahoma.

EMS transported both drivers to the Ellsworth County Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Silverado driven by Travis Dean&nbsp;Barleen, 40, Salina, was eastbound on Interstate 70 one half mile east of Kansas 232 in the passing lane. The pickup then moved to the driving lane and rear-ended a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Cody Micheal&nbsp;Stephenson, 36,&nbsp;Muskogee, Oklahoma.EMS transported both drivers to the Ellsworth County Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after Ellsworth County rear-end crash

Following a work session Monday night, the Great Bend City Council was
in favor of scaling back the city’s responsibility in June Jaunt each year and
rebranding the festival as the Big Bend Bash. The downtown festival is going
into year 14 this year and boasts food, crafts, vendors, yard games, music and
entertainment. 

Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said the city
will join Great Bend Economic Development to create the new festival with many of the features spread throughout the downtown consumption district and Jack Kilby
Square.


"Our city staff would still be in charge of the courthouse square, but the beer garden would go into the consumption district," said Hayes. "The vendors would go into the consumption district. We would take out the bands. They would go into the district or Economic Development has an idea of hosting a concert inside the Crest Theater. Our piece would really be the kids activities where I could still hire a juggler, magician or fire breather."&nbsp;

Great Bend has seen declining attendance numbers for the festival that lands on
the second week in June, some of which caused by poor weather.

"The weather in 2024 about ripped my heart out for every event," joked Hayes. "That was tough for an event planner, but that doesn't mean what we were doing was bad."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716401751146.jpeg" alt="Great Bend's outdoor festival, June Jaunt, will be rebranded to Big Bend Bash with a few changes." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend's outdoor festival, June Jaunt, will be rebranded to Big Bend Bash with a few changes.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFollowing a work session Monday night, the Great Bend City Council was
in favor of scaling back the city’s responsibility in June Jaunt each year and
rebranding the festival as the Big Bend Bash. The downtown festival is going
into year 14 this year and boasts food, crafts, vendors, yard games, music and
entertainment. Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said the city
will join Great Bend Economic Development to create the new festival with many of the features spread throughout the downtown consumption district and Jack Kilby
Square.
"Our city staff would still be in charge of the courthouse square, but the beer garden would go into the consumption district," said Hayes. "The vendors would go into the consumption district. We would take out the bands. They would go into the district or Economic Development has an idea of hosting a concert inside the Crest Theater. Our piece would really be the kids activities where I could still hire a juggler, magician or fire breather."&nbsp;Great Bend has seen declining attendance numbers for the festival that lands on
the second week in June, some of which caused by poor weather."The weather in 2024 about ripped my heart out for every event," joked Hayes. "That was tough for an event planner, but that doesn't mean what we were doing was bad."For 2025, the
city council budgeted $22,000 for June Jaunt and $35,000 for Party in the Park,
the festival held the second Saturday of August at Veterans Memorial Park. With
the rebranded Big Bend Bash, the city plans to allocate $15,000 for June Jaunt
and shift the remaining $7,000 to the Party in the Park budget.
"I like the idea of merging where there is still something," said Hayes. "That weekend is still successful for Great Bend. There are pieces of it that work. I like the idea of the Big Bend Bash. It's a way for Economic Development and my roles of community coordinator and Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau Director to work together."Economic Development will oversee approximately 80% of the festival and any proceeds
would benefit them. The event is still planned to span over three days and
include traditional elements like the parade, car show and movie night.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;