1/14 BOOKED: Thomas L. McCormick on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute 3.59&gt;100g, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Proof of Vehicle Insurance, and Driving Left of Center, bond set at $100,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Alex J. Mathews on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Window Tint, and Improper Driving on Laned Road, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Michael D. Gray on Barton County District Court case for DUI, Driving on Right Side of Roadway, and Failure to Use Proper Signal, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242247715.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>1/14 BOOKED: Thomas L. McCormick on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute 3.59&gt;100g, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Proof of Vehicle Insurance, and Driving Left of Center, bond set at $100,000 C/S.BOOKED: Alex J. Mathews on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Window Tint, and Improper Driving on Laned Road, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Michael D. Gray on Barton County District Court case for DUI, Driving on Right Side of Roadway, and Failure to Use Proper Signal, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (1/14)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Elections were won in November but those elected officials are just now assuming their roles in their respective offices. With two uncontested races for the five Barton County Commission spots in November, there were no changes to the board's personnel this year. However, Tuesday morning, Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson and the panel voted Tricia Schlessiger as commission chair for the upcoming year.

"With Commissioner Schlessinger, I've seen her do her job exceptionally well and take the time it takes to actually make a difference in the community," Hutchinson said. "With that, I'd like to move to appoint Tricia Schlessiger as chairman of the Barton County Commission for 2025."

Schlessiger, who was chairperson pro tem last year, will replace Barb Esfeld as chairperson. Commissioner Duane Reif handcrafted a custom gavel for Schlessiger in her new role. He was selected to fill Schlessiger's old position of chairman pro tem. The board also presented Esfeld with a gift for her tenure as chairperson. Hutchinson read from the plaque before presenting it to Esfeld.

"We extend our sincere gratitude to Commissioner Barb Esfeld for her outstanding leadership and dedication during her tenure as chairman," he said. "Commissioner Esfeld served with honor and distinction as chairman of the Barton County Commission from Jan. 16, 2024, through Jan. 13, 2025. Barb, in your own words, thank you helping make Barton County the best county."

Esfeld and Hutchinson, serving districts two and three in Barton County, respectively, won uncontested bids in November's general election. Donna Zimmerman, representing District 5, also remains on the board.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736866189598.jpeg" alt="Tricia Schlessiger (left) was selected as chairperson of the Barton County Commission for 2025. Barb Esfeld held the position in 2024." />
 <figcaption>Tricia Schlessiger (left) was selected as chairperson of the Barton County Commission for 2025. Barb Esfeld held the position in 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostElections were won in November but those elected officials are just now assuming their roles in their respective offices. With two uncontested races for the five Barton County Commission spots in November, there were no changes to the board's personnel this year. However, Tuesday morning, Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson and the panel voted Tricia Schlessiger as commission chair for the upcoming year."With Commissioner Schlessinger, I've seen her do her job exceptionally well and take the time it takes to actually make a difference in the community," Hutchinson said. "With that, I'd like to move to appoint Tricia Schlessiger as chairman of the Barton County Commission for 2025."Schlessiger, who was chairperson pro tem last year, will replace Barb Esfeld as chairperson. Commissioner Duane Reif handcrafted a custom gavel for Schlessiger in her new role. He was selected to fill Schlessiger's old position of chairman pro tem. The board also presented Esfeld with a gift for her tenure as chairperson. Hutchinson read from the plaque before presenting it to Esfeld.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736866250404.jpeg" alt="Commissioner Duane Reif presented Schlessiger with a custom gavel following her selection as chairperson." />
 <figcaption>Commissioner Duane Reif presented Schlessiger with a custom gavel following her selection as chairperson.</figcaption>
 </figure>"We extend our sincere gratitude to Commissioner Barb Esfeld for her outstanding leadership and dedication during her tenure as chairman," he said. "Commissioner Esfeld served with honor and distinction as chairman of the Barton County Commission from Jan. 16, 2024, through Jan. 13, 2025. Barb, in your own words, thank you helping make Barton County the best county."Esfeld and Hutchinson, serving districts two and three in Barton County, respectively, won uncontested bids in November's general election. Donna Zimmerman, representing District 5, also remains on the board.

Schlessiger, Reif selected for leadership roles on Barton Co. Commission

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Looking to tap into the popularity of eSports, the Great Bend Recreation
Commission purchased several PlayStation 5 consoles, Nintendo Switch consoles
and television monitors. The investment nearly two years ago was to provide
video gaming opportunities to area youth and the community.


Great Bend Rec Sports Director Shane Sandberg said instead of having
participants sign up and pay a fee, this February will mark another year of
drop-in gaming opportunities.


"We had a lot more success last year in February than we had with some of our other setups forcing them to register and charge fees," said Sandberg. "It was more of an old-school Rec Center vibe, drop-in after school and participate. I'm hoping that goes well again this year."

On Tuesdays and Thursdays in February, the Recreation Commission will
host a gaming room inside the Burnside Room, 1214 Stone Street. Beginning after
school until 5 p.m., the Rec staff will provide popcorn and have multiple games
set up to play.&nbsp;A staff member from the Rec is on hand to supervise the activity.    

In the past, the Rec had Rocket League, Mario Kart, NBA2K and Madden available
for school-aged children.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706824730296.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLooking to tap into the popularity of eSports, the Great Bend Recreation
Commission purchased several PlayStation 5 consoles, Nintendo Switch consoles
and television monitors. The investment nearly two years ago was to provide
video gaming opportunities to area youth and the community.
Great Bend Rec Sports Director Shane Sandberg said instead of having
participants sign up and pay a fee, this February will mark another year of
drop-in gaming opportunities.
"We had a lot more success last year in February than we had with some of our other setups forcing them to register and charge fees," said Sandberg. "It was more of an old-school Rec Center vibe, drop-in after school and participate. I'm hoping that goes well again this year."On Tuesdays and Thursdays in February, the Recreation Commission will
host a gaming room inside the Burnside Room, 1214 Stone Street. Beginning after
school until 5 p.m., the Rec staff will provide popcorn and have multiple games
set up to play.&nbsp;A staff member from the Rec is on hand to supervise the activity. In the past, the Rec had Rocket League, Mario Kart, NBA2K and Madden available
for school-aged children.&nbsp;

eSports drop-in hours returning to Great Bend Rec

Today Patchy freezing fog before 10 a.m. Sunny, with a high near 40. West-southwest wind 6 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 26. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 44. West wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27. South wind 9 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 42. South-southwest wind 9 to 17 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 20.

Saturday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 26. Blustery.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 7.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 19.

Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 2.

M.L.King Day Partly sunny, with a high near 14.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around -1.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Patchy freezing fog before 10 a.m. Sunny, with a high near 40. West-southwest wind 6 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 26. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 44. West wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south in the afternoon.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27. South wind 9 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 42. South-southwest wind 9 to 17 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 20.Saturday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 26. Blustery.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 7.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 19.Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 2.M.L.King Day Partly sunny, with a high near 14.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around -1.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday weather

Following a boil water advisory issued in December, the City of
Hoisington is moving forward with a waterline replacement for approximately
four blocks under K-4 Highway. A water main broke last month causing the advisory
for city residents and customers of Barton County Rural Water District #1.


Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell said between $400,000 and $500,000
will be spent to replace the water main under the street.


"Crews will be putting valves in at every intersection so we'll be able to isolate leaks when they happen," said Mitchell. "We'll also be putting in a third fire hydrant to make sure we have adequate service in that area."

The stretch of K-4 to be repaired will be from Center Street to just west of
Main Street.


Mitchell said the water line project will be done in advance of a full-depth
concrete replacement on the same section of K-4. The 100-day project will be
broken up into three phases, causing inconvenience to home owners on the
street.


"What they're telling us is four to six weeks per phase," said Mitchell. "So if you live on the south side of the street, you won't be able to use&nbsp; your driveway, or access the road, for four to six weeks. The north side will be the same thing. It'll be an inconvenient project, but when it's done you shouldn't need significant repairs for a long time."

Mitchell noted no start date for the project has been announced, but the city
will notify the public as soon as possible.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFollowing a boil water advisory issued in December, the City of
Hoisington is moving forward with a waterline replacement for approximately
four blocks under K-4 Highway. A water main broke last month causing the advisory
for city residents and customers of Barton County Rural Water District #1.
Hoisington City Manager Jonathan Mitchell said between $400,000 and $500,000
will be spent to replace the water main under the street.
"Crews will be putting valves in at every intersection so we'll be able to isolate leaks when they happen," said Mitchell. "We'll also be putting in a third fire hydrant to make sure we have adequate service in that area."The stretch of K-4 to be repaired will be from Center Street to just west of
Main Street.
Mitchell said the water line project will be done in advance of a full-depth
concrete replacement on the same section of K-4. The 100-day project will be
broken up into three phases, causing inconvenience to home owners on the
street.
"What they're telling us is four to six weeks per phase," said Mitchell. "So if you live on the south side of the street, you won't be able to use&nbsp; your driveway, or access the road, for four to six weeks. The north side will be the same thing. It'll be an inconvenient project, but when it's done you shouldn't need significant repairs for a long time."Mitchell noted no start date for the project has been announced, but the city
will notify the public as soon as possible.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Waterline & road repairs to K-4, Hoisington warning citizens

Hear this week's Cougar Pause show with Eagle Media's Shannon Stafford and Barton Community College Director of Nursing Education Renae Skelton that aired Jan. 13, 2025.

The Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's Cougar Pause show with Eagle Media's Shannon Stafford and Barton Community College Director of Nursing Education Renae Skelton that aired Jan. 13, 2025.<div><iframe title="Barton CC Director of Nursing Education Renae Skelton" 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=yzdfj-17ae4d8-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 Cougar Pause program airs every Monday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

🎙Post Podcast: Barton CC Director of Nursing Education Skelton

Just before 9 p.m., on Saturday, Jan. 11, Barton County Sheriff's Office staff was notified of a possible death inside the detention facility. Twenty-eight-year-old Conner Clifton was found hanging inside his individual cell at the jail, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). EMS was called and life-saving measures were attempted on Clifton, but he was pronounced deceased.

The Barton County Sheriff’s Office contacted the KBI to respond. Per state statute, the KBI investigates deaths that occur in Kansas jails and prisons unless the inmate who dies was being regularly attended to by a physician. An autopsy completed on Monday ruled Clifton's manner of death as suicide.

Clifton was booked into the Barton County Detention Center on Dec. 22 on a Barton County District Court case for interference with law enforcement officers, no proof of liability insurance on a vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, and expired or no registration. His first appearance in the case was Monday morning. Clifton also had pending cases in Stafford and Ness counties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720202331954.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostJust before 9 p.m., on Saturday, Jan. 11, Barton County Sheriff's Office staff was notified of a possible death inside the detention facility. Twenty-eight-year-old Conner Clifton was found hanging inside his individual cell at the jail, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). EMS was called and life-saving measures were attempted on Clifton, but he was pronounced deceased.The Barton County Sheriff’s Office contacted the KBI to respond. Per state statute, the KBI investigates deaths that occur in Kansas jails and prisons unless the inmate who dies was being regularly attended to by a physician. An autopsy completed on Monday ruled Clifton's manner of death as suicide.Clifton was booked into the Barton County Detention Center on Dec. 22 on a Barton County District Court case for interference with law enforcement officers, no proof of liability insurance on a vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, and expired or no registration. His first appearance in the case was Monday morning. Clifton also had pending cases in Stafford and Ness counties.

Saturday night death at Barton County Jail ruled a suicide

News from the Oil Patch, Jan. 13 John P. Tretbar

New sanctions targeting Russia's shadow fleet spiked oil prices around the world Friday. The Russians shrugged. The Treasury Department announced sweeping sanctions focused on more than 180 crude-oil tankers and more than a dozen Russian energy officials and executives. Russia's biggest oil producer shrugged off the impact. Reuters cited claims by Russia's largest insurance company that the sanctions would benefit less reputable players, and in fact endanger maritime safety. Prices jumped three percent or more on Friday, with the benchmarks rising above $76 a barrel in New York and over $79 in London. Offers rose another two percent on Monday.

Kansas prices start the week at a three-month high after gaining more than two dollars on Friday. Kansas Common rose to $66.75 per barrel at CHS in McPherson.

Weekly crude production in the United States dipped slightly but remained over 13.5 million barrels a day for the third week in a row and only the eighth time ever. Weekly output is the fourth best ever reported by the Energy Information Administration. The four-week average is up more than two percent, rising to its highest level ever at just under 13.6 million barrels a day. Output for all of last year averaged a best-ever 13,262,000 barrels per day according to EIA. That's a five percent increase over the year before.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 18 new well completions for the week through January 9. There's one in Ellis County and one in Russell County, out of just three in Western Kansas. Kansas regulators okayed 24 new drilling locations last week. Out of eight in Western Kansas, one new permit in Ellis County joins three in Finney County.

At 18 active drilling rigs, the current Kansas Rig Count started the new year down 25% from the end of the old one. It's nearly 42% lower than a month ago, and almost 58% lower than a year ago. Drilling was underway on a lease in Ellis County Friday, out of ten active rigs in Western Kansas.

The US Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was down three oil rigs and another two gas rigs for a total of 584. The breakout for horizontal rigs was down five rigs. The statewide tally in Texas was down three rigs. Colorado and Utah were each down one.

The government reported a million-barrel drop in commercial crude inventories. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average. DOE took delivery on another 200,000 barrels of crude for the Strategic Petroleum Reserves. That's nearly 30 million refill barrels since April at prices roughly $15 cheaper than what we sold it for.

The US imports more crude than we export by more than 3.3 million barrels a day. Product exports top product imports by more than five million daily barrels. Crude imports averaged 6.4 million barrels a day, down nearly half a million barrels a day from a week ago, but well above the same week last year and two years ago. The four-week average is up 1.4 percent from a year ago. Weekly domestic crude exports dropped nearly 600,000 barrels a day to just over three million. That's down 300,000 from a year ago, but up nearly a million from two years ago. The four week average is rose 1.3 percent from a year ago.

Another US export facility for Liquefied Natural Gas shipped its first cargo last month. Plaquemines &nbsp;LNG is the eighth LNG export terminal to go into business in the United States, one of two that started liquefaction operations last year.

The energy regulator in Texas reports hundreds of weatherization inspections, and plans hundreds more, in hopes of preventing another public relations disaster like Winter Storm Uri three years ago. The Railroad Commission of Texas came under fire when the state's power grid and its natural gas supply chain failed to measure up during that storm. The commission says its team has conducted more than 1,200 inspections of critical natural gas facilities in the state's electricity supply chain, including all of the so-called "tier one" installations. They're inspecting large-scale gas production facilities, along with processing plants, underground storage facilities and pipelines. The commission says those inspections will continue through March.

The Texas Oil and Gas Association (TXOGA) reported overall conditions have been stable even with recent colder temperatures, and insists personnel are in place to maintain operations. In what they call a Winter Weather Situation Report, TXOGA noted operators and pipeline firms preparing assets and cold weather contingencies. Texas was not the only state to see problems during Winter Storm Uri in 2021. Lawsuits are pending in Kansas, Oklahoma and New Mexico in which regulators are accused of everything from malfeasance to fraud.

News from the Oil Patch, Jan. 13 John P. TretbarNew sanctions targeting Russia's shadow fleet spiked oil prices around the world Friday. The Russians shrugged. The Treasury Department announced sweeping sanctions focused on more than 180 crude-oil tankers and more than a dozen Russian energy officials and executives. Russia's biggest oil producer shrugged off the impact. Reuters cited claims by Russia's largest insurance company that the sanctions would benefit less reputable players, and in fact endanger maritime safety. Prices jumped three percent or more on Friday, with the benchmarks rising above $76 a barrel in New York and over $79 in London. Offers rose another two percent on Monday.Kansas prices start the week at a three-month high after gaining more than two dollars on Friday. Kansas Common rose to $66.75 per barrel at CHS in McPherson.Weekly crude production in the United States dipped slightly but remained over 13.5 million barrels a day for the third week in a row and only the eighth time ever. Weekly output is the fourth best ever reported by the Energy Information Administration. The four-week average is up more than two percent, rising to its highest level ever at just under 13.6 million barrels a day. Output for all of last year averaged a best-ever 13,262,000 barrels per day according to EIA. That's a five percent increase over the year before.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 18 new well completions for the week through January 9. There's one in Ellis County and one in Russell County, out of just three in Western Kansas. Kansas regulators okayed 24 new drilling locations last week. Out of eight in Western Kansas, one new permit in Ellis County joins three in Finney County.At 18 active drilling rigs, the current Kansas Rig Count started the new year down 25% from the end of the old one. It's nearly 42% lower than a month ago, and almost 58% lower than a year ago. Drilling was underway on a lease in Ellis County Friday, out of ten active rigs in Western Kansas.The US Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was down three oil rigs and another two gas rigs for a total of 584. The breakout for horizontal rigs was down five rigs. The statewide tally in Texas was down three rigs. Colorado and Utah were each down one.The government reported a million-barrel drop in commercial crude inventories. Stockpiles are about six percent below the five-year seasonal average. DOE took delivery on another 200,000 barrels of crude for the Strategic Petroleum Reserves. That's nearly 30 million refill barrels since April at prices roughly $15 cheaper than what we sold it for.The US imports more crude than we export by more than 3.3 million barrels a day. Product exports top product imports by more than five million daily barrels. Crude imports averaged 6.4 million barrels a day, down nearly half a million barrels a day from a week ago, but well above the same week last year and two years ago. The four-week average is up 1.4 percent from a year ago. Weekly domestic crude exports dropped nearly 600,000 barrels a day to just over three million. That's down 300,000 from a year ago, but up nearly a million from two years ago. The four week average is rose 1.3 percent from a year ago.Another US export facility for Liquefied Natural Gas shipped its first cargo last month. Plaquemines &nbsp;LNG is the eighth LNG export terminal to go into business in the United States, one of two that started liquefaction operations last year.The energy regulator in Texas reports hundreds of weatherization inspections, and plans hundreds more, in hopes of preventing another public relations disaster like Winter Storm Uri three years ago. The Railroad Commission of Texas came under fire when the state's power grid and its natural gas supply chain failed to measure up during that storm. The commission says its team has conducted more than 1,200 inspections of critical natural gas facilities in the state's electricity supply chain, including all of the so-called "tier one" installations. They're inspecting large-scale gas production facilities, along with processing plants, underground storage facilities and pipelines. The commission says those inspections will continue through March.The Texas Oil and Gas Association (TXOGA) reported overall conditions have been stable even with recent colder temperatures, and insists personnel are in place to maintain operations. In what they call a Winter Weather Situation Report, TXOGA noted operators and pipeline firms preparing assets and cold weather contingencies. Texas was not the only state to see problems during Winter Storm Uri in 2021. Lawsuits are pending in Kansas, Oklahoma and New Mexico in which regulators are accused of everything from malfeasance to fraud.

News from the Oil Patch: Prices up 5% on Russia sanctions

With much fanfare in 1973, Fuller Brush Company owner Sara Lee Corporation moved Fuller’s headquarters and factory from Hartford, Conn., to Great Bend. Along with that move came enough specialized machinery and equipment to fill most of the cavernous new facility west of town.

Fast forward over 50 years to what is now Fuller Industries Inc. While the company’s focus shifted from brushes to commercial cleaning products, much of that antiquated machinery of the industry remains.

“It’s like walking through a time capsule,” said Joe Mann, Fuller’s vice president and general manager. “There is a lot of really cool history back there. Some of that stuff is pretty valuable, too.”

On the plant floor are rows of massive mills, drills, presses and other machines. Some of these are seen in a Fuller promotional film shot in the Hartford location back in the 1960s and were used here in the early days, and some remain in use today.

Meanwhile, in an upstairs storage room above the quality control laboratory are tables of old lab instruments. There are scales and weights, meters in wooden boxes, burners and glassware, many of which the current lab technicians don’t recognize.

“A lot has changed in manufacturing in 50 years,” Mann said. 

Modernization, automation and the company’s shift to chemical production have rendered most of the old items obsolete. Even so, some of the machinery has been pressed into service as it was or has been repurposed for other uses.

“We are proud of Fuller’s heritage,” Mann said. “We want to preserve what we can.”

While they are trying to sell most of the aged equipment, Mann said they want to keep select pieces. The goal is to include these with old photos and other memorabilia to establish a historical display tracing the company’s legacy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736866073565.jpeg" alt="A row of old machine presses stands on the floor of Fuller Industries Inc. west of Great Bend. The massive devices, which are still in use, were key when the Fuller Brush Company moved to Great Bend over 50 years ago." />
 <figcaption>A row of old machine presses stands on the floor of Fuller Industries Inc. west of Great Bend. The massive devices, which are still in use, were key when the Fuller Brush Company moved to Great Bend over 50 years ago.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSWith much fanfare in 1973, Fuller Brush Company owner Sara Lee Corporation moved Fuller’s headquarters and factory from Hartford, Conn., to Great Bend. Along with that move came enough specialized machinery and equipment to fill most of the cavernous new facility west of town.Fast forward over 50 years to what is now Fuller Industries Inc. While the company’s focus shifted from brushes to commercial cleaning products, much of that antiquated machinery of the industry remains.“It’s like walking through a time capsule,” said Joe Mann, Fuller’s vice president and general manager. “There is a lot of really cool history back there. Some of that stuff is pretty valuable, too.”On the plant floor are rows of massive mills, drills, presses and other machines. Some of these are seen in a Fuller promotional film shot in the Hartford location back in the 1960s and were used here in the early days, and some remain in use today.Meanwhile, in an upstairs storage room above the quality control laboratory are tables of old lab instruments. There are scales and weights, meters in wooden boxes, burners and glassware, many of which the current lab technicians don’t recognize.“A lot has changed in manufacturing in 50 years,” Mann said. Modernization, automation and the company’s shift to chemical production have rendered most of the old items obsolete. Even so, some of the machinery has been pressed into service as it was or has been repurposed for other uses.“We are proud of Fuller’s heritage,” Mann said. “We want to preserve what we can.”While they are trying to sell most of the aged equipment, Mann said they want to keep select pieces. The goal is to include these with old photos and other memorabilia to establish a historical display tracing the company’s legacy.

Fuller still houses old, even antique, machines of industry

I recently came upon this article, and&nbsp;I felt it is important for parents to know that what we feed our children when they are infants and toddlers affects their lifelong health. &nbsp;Read on to learn more.&nbsp;

Current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend no consumption of added sugar from in utero up until age 2. Yet most U.S. children are exposed to added sugar from a very early age. This can include before birth and during breastfeeding through the mother’s diet.&nbsp;

An NIH-funded research team led by Dr. Tadeja Gracner at the University of Southern California set out to study how exposure to sugar in utero and during infancy affects the later risk of diabetes and hypertension. To do so, they used a natural experiment: sugar rationing in the United Kingdom during and after World War II.&nbsp;

During rationing, the allotted amount of sugar was similar to current U.S. dietary guidelines: less than 40 grams per day for adults, less than 15 grams for children, and very limited amounts for children under 2 years. Sugar consumption nearly doubled immediately after rationing ended in September 1953.&nbsp;

Using data from the UK Biobank, the team looked at health outcomes for more than 60,000 people born between October 1951 and March 1956. Participants were aged 51-66 when last surveyed. Those born in July 1954 or later were conceived after the end of rationing, and thus never experienced sugar rationing, even in utero. The rest experienced rationing to varying extents, ranging from only in utero up to 2 years of age. Results appeared in&nbsp;Science&nbsp;on Oct. 31, 2024.&nbsp;

The researchers found that early life exposure to rationing reduced the risk of diabetes and hypertension decades later. Risk declined with longer exposure to rationing, particularly for exposures longer than six months postnatally. People with the longest exposure to rationing had about 35% lower diabetes risk and 20% lower hypertension risk than people who were never exposed to rationing. They also had a four-year average delay in diagnosis of diabetes and a two-year average delay in diagnosis of hypertension. Those exposed only in utero had about a third of the risk reduction that those with the longest exposure did.&nbsp;

“Studying the long-term effects of added sugar on health is challenging,” Gracner notes. “It is hard to find situations where people are randomly exposed to different nutritional environments early in life and follow them for 50 to 60 years. The end of rationing provided us with a novel natural experiment to overcome some of these challenges.”&nbsp;

The findings suggest that limiting sugar exposure in utero and during the first two years of life could protect against type 2 diabetes and hypertension. This, in turn, could reduce health care costs and extend life expectancy. The findings reinforce the outsized impact of early diet on long-term health.&nbsp;

“We are learning that many prenatal conditions can influence risk or resilience to chronic diseases later in life,” says Dr. Kriti Jain, a program official at NIA. She notes that this research builds on earlier findings related to fetal exposures, such as links between economic hardship and famine with accelerated aging, and famine with obesity.&nbsp;

Further studies will be needed to determine exactly how early sugar consumption leads to long-term health consequences.&nbsp;

Reference: Gracner T, et al.&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39480913/" target="_blank">Exposure to sugar rationing in the first 1000 days of life protected against chronic disease</a>.&nbsp;Science. 2024;386(6725):1043-1048. doi: 10.1126/science.adn5421.&nbsp;

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or <a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu" target="_blank">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>I recently came upon this article, and&nbsp;I felt it is important for parents to know that what we feed our children when they are infants and toddlers affects their lifelong health. &nbsp;Read on to learn more.&nbsp;Current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend no consumption of added sugar from in utero up until age 2. Yet most U.S. children are exposed to added sugar from a very early age. This can include before birth and during breastfeeding through the mother’s diet.&nbsp;An NIH-funded research team led by Dr. Tadeja Gracner at the University of Southern California set out to study how exposure to sugar in utero and during infancy affects the later risk of diabetes and hypertension. To do so, they used a natural experiment: sugar rationing in the United Kingdom during and after World War II.&nbsp;During rationing, the allotted amount of sugar was similar to current U.S. dietary guidelines: less than 40 grams per day for adults, less than 15 grams for children, and very limited amounts for children under 2 years. Sugar consumption nearly doubled immediately after rationing ended in September 1953.&nbsp;Using data from the UK Biobank, the team looked at health outcomes for more than 60,000 people born between October 1951 and March 1956. Participants were aged 51-66 when last surveyed. Those born in July 1954 or later were conceived after the end of rationing, and thus never experienced sugar rationing, even in utero. The rest experienced rationing to varying extents, ranging from only in utero up to 2 years of age. Results appeared in&nbsp;Science&nbsp;on Oct. 31, 2024.&nbsp;The researchers found that early life exposure to rationing reduced the risk of diabetes and hypertension decades later. Risk declined with longer exposure to rationing, particularly for exposures longer than six months postnatally. People with the longest exposure to rationing had about 35% lower diabetes risk and 20% lower hypertension risk than people who were never exposed to rationing. They also had a four-year average delay in diagnosis of diabetes and a two-year average delay in diagnosis of hypertension. Those exposed only in utero had about a third of the risk reduction that those with the longest exposure did.&nbsp;“Studying the long-term effects of added sugar on health is challenging,” Gracner notes. “It is hard to find situations where people are randomly exposed to different nutritional environments early in life and follow them for 50 to 60 years. The end of rationing provided us with a novel natural experiment to overcome some of these challenges.”&nbsp;The findings suggest that limiting sugar exposure in utero and during the first two years of life could protect against type 2 diabetes and hypertension. This, in turn, could reduce health care costs and extend life expectancy. The findings reinforce the outsized impact of early diet on long-term health.&nbsp;“We are learning that many prenatal conditions can influence risk or resilience to chronic diseases later in life,” says Dr. Kriti Jain, a program official at NIA. She notes that this research builds on earlier findings related to fetal exposures, such as links between economic hardship and famine with accelerated aging, and famine with obesity.&nbsp;Further studies will be needed to determine exactly how early sugar consumption leads to long-term health consequences.&nbsp;— by Brian Doctrow, Ph.D.&nbsp;Reference: Gracner T, et al.&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39480913/" target="_blank">Exposure to sugar rationing in the first 1000 days of life protected against chronic disease</a>.&nbsp;Science. 2024;386(6725):1043-1048. doi: 10.1126/science.adn5421.&nbsp;Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or <a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu" target="_blank">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.&nbsp;

KOERNER: Early-life sugar intake affects chronic disease risk 

BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, Jan. 14 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/Zoom

1. Volleyball Recognition – Trevor Rolfs

2. December Financial Statement – Mark Dean

3. END Statements Review – Dr. Garstecki

4. Dr. Garstecki approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application Request &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas WIOA Title II Adult Education and Family Literacy Act &nbsp; &nbsp; MLT and Phlebotomy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Comanche County Hospital, Coldwater, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Medicalodges Kinsley, Kinsley, KS

Joint Board Meeting (Board of Trustees, Foundation, Cougar Booster) Tuesday, Jan. 14 – 5 p.m. Cavanaugh Room, L-116, Library

1. College Updates and Priorities – Dr. Garstecki

2. Foundation Updates – Lindsey Bogner

3. Athletic Updates – Trevor Rolfs

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627047186061.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Monthly Study Session Tuesday, Jan. 14 – 4 p.m. F-30, Fine Arts Building/ZoomDiscussion Topics1. Volleyball Recognition – Trevor Rolfs2. December Financial Statement – Mark Dean3. END Statements Review – Dr. Garstecki4. Dr. Garstecki approved the following: &nbsp; &nbsp; Grant Application Request &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Kansas WIOA Title II Adult Education and Family Literacy Act &nbsp; &nbsp; MLT and Phlebotomy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Comanche County Hospital, Coldwater, KS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Medicalodges Kinsley, Kinsley, KS---Joint Board Meeting (Board of Trustees, Foundation, Cougar Booster) Tuesday, Jan. 14 – 5 p.m. Cavanaugh Room, L-116, LibraryDiscussion Topics1. College Updates and Priorities – Dr. Garstecki2. Foundation Updates – Lindsey Bogner3. Athletic Updates – Trevor Rolfs

Barton CC Board of Trustees study session agenda (1/14)

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (1/13)

At 2:09 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 2200 block of 24th
Street.

At 2:59 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 24th &amp;
Rock Bridge Road.

At 4:07 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 24th &amp;
Morton.

At 10:18 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway.

At 10:41 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at NE 50 Road
&amp; N. US 281 Highway.

At 10:52 p.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 293
NE 30 Avenue.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (1/13)

At 8:51 a.m. a theft of items from the business was reported
at Holiday Inn Express, 3821 10th Street.

At 9:20 a.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane in the
county was reported at NE K-156 Highway &amp; NE 150 Avenue.

At 10:05 a.m. someone using her debit card was reported at
1215 Stone.

At 11:19 a.m. a report of wanting to k now how to get
someone evicted from a residence was made at 5951 Hemlock.

At 11:38 a.m. a hit and run was reported at 5815 Broadway.

At 6:22 p.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane was
reported at 1315 10th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (1/13)K-9 Use / Call OutAt 2:09 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 2200 block of 24th
Street.At 2:59 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 24th &amp;
Rock Bridge Road.At 4:07 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 24th &amp;
Morton.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:18 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE K-156
Highway.Traffic ArrestAt 10:41 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at NE 50 Road
&amp; N. US 281 Highway.Missing Person / RunawayAt 10:52 p.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 293
NE 30 Avenue.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (1/13)TheftAt 8:51 a.m. a theft of items from the business was reported
at Holiday Inn Express, 3821 10th Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 9:20 a.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane in the
county was reported at NE K-156 Highway &amp; NE 150 Avenue.TheftAt 10:05 a.m. someone using her debit card was reported at
1215 Stone.Trespassing / CriminalAt 11:19 a.m. a report of wanting to k now how to get
someone evicted from a residence was made at 5951 Hemlock.Non-Injury AccidentAt 11:38 a.m. a hit and run was reported at 5815 Broadway.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 6:22 p.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane was
reported at 1315 10th Street.

Cop Shop (1/13)

In June of 1980, Harold Tarlton hired Cecelia Conrad to work for the
City of Hoisington. Conrad worked in a variety of departments and retired at
the beginning of the year after more than 44 years with the city. 

Hoisington
City Manager Jonathan Mitchell said Conrad is well liked and respected throughout
the community.


"Cecelia was the first female power plant operator," said Mitchell. "She was the first female for a lot of things. She worked in the field for public works. She was the one that kind of blazed the trail in our community."

Conrad retired as City Clerk for the City of Hoisington, a position she held
since 2019. Hoisington staff held a public celebration for Conrad’s career last
Friday.

"I'm grateful for her and her contributions to our community," said Mitchell. "I'm really going to miss her but excited she gets to spend more time with her grandkids."

Kim Loesch, previously the Deputy Clerk, took over the City Clerk position on
Jan. 2.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736784364459.jpeg" alt="Cecelia Conrad was celebrated Friday, Jan. 10, 2025 for her retirement from the City of Hoisington." />
 <figcaption>Cecelia Conrad was celebrated Friday, Jan. 10, 2025 for her retirement from the City of Hoisington.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn June of 1980, Harold Tarlton hired Cecelia Conrad to work for the
City of Hoisington. Conrad worked in a variety of departments and retired at
the beginning of the year after more than 44 years with the city. Hoisington
City Manager Jonathan Mitchell said Conrad is well liked and respected throughout
the community.
"Cecelia was the first female power plant operator," said Mitchell. "She was the first female for a lot of things. She worked in the field for public works. She was the one that kind of blazed the trail in our community."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736784447938.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Conrad retired as City Clerk for the City of Hoisington, a position she held
since 2019. Hoisington staff held a public celebration for Conrad’s career last
Friday."I'm grateful for her and her contributions to our community," said Mitchell. "I'm really going to miss her but excited she gets to spend more time with her grandkids."Kim Loesch, previously the Deputy Clerk, took over the City Clerk position on
Jan. 2.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Nearly 45 years with the City of Hoisington, Conrad retires

Announcing a big New Year's goal in mid-November does not leave much wiggle room. Yet Sandra Burton and Sandra Burton Massage in Great Bend and Live Like Jesus Today Ministries were able to reach that goal of purchasing and distributing 1,000 sleeping bags to needy residents in the area. With several donations in the final week of 2024, Burton was able to purchase 1,005 sleeping bags for the Rest Easy Sleeping Bag Project. More than 100 bags were ordered in the final 90 minutes of last year. Excess funds were used to purchase food for the warming center at the Dream Center in Great Bend during last week's cold spell.

Each sleeping bag was $17.50. The Rest Easy Project bank account will remain open to help fund future projects through Live Like Jesus Today Ministries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736776185969.png" alt="Sandra Burton with Live Like Jesus Today Ministries' Buzz Birney" />
 <figcaption>Sandra Burton with Live Like Jesus Today Ministries' Buzz Birney</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostAnnouncing a big New Year's goal in mid-November does not leave much wiggle room. Yet Sandra Burton and Sandra Burton Massage in Great Bend and Live Like Jesus Today Ministries were able to reach that goal of purchasing and distributing 1,000 sleeping bags to needy residents in the area. With several donations in the final week of 2024, Burton was able to purchase 1,005 sleeping bags for the Rest Easy Sleeping Bag Project. More than 100 bags were ordered in the final 90 minutes of last year. Excess funds were used to purchase food for the warming center at the Dream Center in Great Bend during last week's cold spell.Each sleeping bag was $17.50. The Rest Easy Project bank account will remain open to help fund future projects through Live Like Jesus Today Ministries.

Rest Easy Sleeping Bag Project exceeds goal of 1,000 sleeping bags for area needy

A special Claflin City Council meeting was held on Tuesday, Jan. 7.  The meeting was called for discussion and possible council action regarding the Hidden Hills Estates housing development. 

Remington Miller presented information on the Hidden Hills Estates housing development, including estimates for the proposed city’s portion of expenses and a plat. A municipal bond would assist in funding the 22-lot project, which would be paid for through special assessment taxes paid by the lot owners, developers, and the city. 

A discussion occurred regarding the responsibility for costs associated with the project. Attorney Bob Suelter will present the plat to the city zoning board for approval. 

No action was taken at this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From the City of Claflin...A special Claflin City Council meeting was held on Tuesday, Jan. 7. The meeting was called for discussion and possible council action regarding the Hidden Hills Estates housing development. Remington Miller presented information on the Hidden Hills Estates housing development, including estimates for the proposed city’s portion of expenses and a plat. A municipal bond would assist in funding the 22-lot project, which would be paid for through special assessment taxes paid by the lot owners, developers, and the city. A discussion occurred regarding the responsibility for costs associated with the project. Attorney Bob Suelter will present the plat to the city zoning board for approval. No action was taken at this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Claflin council discusses 22-lot housing development

Today Increasing clouds, with a high near 28. Northwest wind 6 to 11 mph becoming east-southeast in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 16. East-southeast wind around 6 mph becoming southwest after midnight.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 39. West wind 6 to 11 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 25. West wind around 9 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 43. West wind 7 to 9 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 43.

Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21.

Saturday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 26.

Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of snow before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 6.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 18.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 0.

M.L.King Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 16.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Increasing clouds, with a high near 28. Northwest wind 6 to 11 mph becoming east-southeast in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 16. East-southeast wind around 6 mph becoming southwest after midnight.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 39. West wind 6 to 11 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 25. West wind around 9 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 43. West wind 7 to 9 mph becoming south in the afternoon.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.Friday Sunny, with a high near 43.Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21.Saturday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 26.Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of snow before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 6.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 18.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 0.M.L.King Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 16.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

SALINE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Monday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Chevy Silverado driven by Jackie&nbsp;Soukup, 43, Dorrance was eastbound on Interstate 70 just before Niles Road. The pickup rear-ended a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Sahil&nbsp;Balkishan, 24, San Rafael, California.

EMS transported&nbsp;Soukup to Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;Balkishan was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

SALINE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Monday in Saline County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Chevy Silverado driven by Jackie&nbsp;Soukup, 43, Dorrance was eastbound on Interstate 70 just before Niles Road. The pickup rear-ended a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Sahil&nbsp;Balkishan, 24, San Rafael, California.EMS transported&nbsp;Soukup to Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;Balkishan was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after pickup rear-ends semi

President-elect Donald Trump will begin his second term in the White House on Jan. 20. Already his proposed policies are impacting smaller government. Each year, USD 428 replenishes one-third of its Chromebook computers that are used by Great Bend students. Monday evening, Superintendent Khris Thexton suggested purchasing the Chromebooks now rather than later in the year.

"Usually, we bring these later in the year but we were made aware of possible tariffs that might be implemented shortly," he said, "and that it was best to get these ordered and get them coming prior to that possible up to 20 percent increase in costs."

The district will purchase 1,100 Acer C736 Chromebooks from Chicago-based CDW Government for $302,500, the same price as last year. Licenses for each computer will also cost the same at a total of $35,200. Protective cases will cost a total of $20,900. The total cost is $358,600.

"These are the new cases we put on the Chromebooks," Thexton said. "They're a lot more substantial and they've done a better job protecting Chromebooks than in the past. They're actually $5 less than they were in previous years."

The district replaces one-fifth of its computers and one-third of its Chromebooks each year. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683212469140.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostPresident-elect Donald Trump will begin his second term in the White House on Jan. 20. Already his proposed policies are impacting smaller government. Each year, USD 428 replenishes one-third of its Chromebook computers that are used by Great Bend students. Monday evening, Superintendent Khris Thexton suggested purchasing the Chromebooks now rather than later in the year."Usually, we bring these later in the year but we were made aware of possible tariffs that might be implemented shortly," he said, "and that it was best to get these ordered and get them coming prior to that possible up to 20 percent increase in costs."The district will purchase 1,100 Acer C736 Chromebooks from Chicago-based CDW Government for $302,500, the same price as last year. Licenses for each computer will also cost the same at a total of $35,200. Protective cases will cost a total of $20,900. The total cost is $358,600."These are the new cases we put on the Chromebooks," Thexton said. "They're a lot more substantial and they've done a better job protecting Chromebooks than in the past. They're actually $5 less than they were in previous years."The district replaces one-fifth of its computers and one-third of its Chromebooks each year.

USD 428 approves purchase of Chromebooks earlier than usual

The New Year inspires new goals including financial resolutions.

The holidays can be a challenging time to save money, and now you may be motivated to regain control of your spending habits. However, saving, reallocating funds, and budgeting can be overwhelming tasks requiring attention to detail and time. The good news is that there are methods to simplify the process.

Budgets don’t have to be restrictive. In fact, a budget is simply an organizational tool that can help you keep track of income and expenses. With increased awareness, a budget can help you determine the best way to allocate your money. Overall, a budget can help you get “financially fit.” This means effectively managing your money to meet short-term and long-term goals.

So, instead of letting money management overwhelm you, here are a few ways to rethink the budgeting process.

First, pay yourself! A rewarding budgeting method is to “pay yourself first.” This means putting a set amount of money from each paycheck into savings or investment portfolios before spending anything. Organizing the remainder of your income is simplified and reduces the temptation to overspend on things you may regret. Paying yourself first streamlines goals, and for some, this can be done automatically through an electronic bank withdrawal system to make saving mindless.

Another key step to building a budget is to get organized. Keep track of bills to quantify expenses and get a realistic picture of how you spend money. To do this, carry a notebook to record all transactions for at least a week. This will increase awareness of your spending habits and help you understand where you currently allocate your money.

Once you have a better grasp of your financial habits, you can build a realistic budget. A realistic budget is a plan that accurately reflects your income, needs, and wants for your current

life circumstances. Following this type of plan will help you to find balance, and empower you to improve your financial situation.

If you want to discover more about your spending habits and how to construct a budget, join the Cottonwood Extension District on January 16th. This Personal Finance Workshop will take place at 10 am at Great Bend Public Library. Contact Karissa at 620-793-1910 to learn more.

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 New Year inspires new goals including financial resolutions.The holidays can be a challenging time to save money, and now you may be motivated to regain control of your spending habits. However, saving, reallocating funds, and budgeting can be overwhelming tasks requiring attention to detail and time. The good news is that there are methods to simplify the process.Budgets don’t have to be restrictive. In fact, a budget is simply an organizational tool that can help you keep track of income and expenses. With increased awareness, a budget can help you determine the best way to allocate your money. Overall, a budget can help you get “financially fit.” This means effectively managing your money to meet short-term and long-term goals.So, instead of letting money management overwhelm you, here are a few ways to rethink the budgeting process.First, pay yourself! A rewarding budgeting method is to “pay yourself first.” This means putting a set amount of money from each paycheck into savings or investment portfolios before spending anything. Organizing the remainder of your income is simplified and reduces the temptation to overspend on things you may regret. Paying yourself first streamlines goals, and for some, this can be done automatically through an electronic bank withdrawal system to make saving mindless.Another key step to building a budget is to get organized. Keep track of bills to quantify expenses and get a realistic picture of how you spend money. To do this, carry a notebook to record all transactions for at least a week. This will increase awareness of your spending habits and help you understand where you currently allocate your money.Once you have a better grasp of your financial habits, you can build a realistic budget. A realistic budget is a plan that accurately reflects your income, needs, and wants for your currentlife circumstances. Following this type of plan will help you to find balance, and empower you to improve your financial situation.If you want to discover more about your spending habits and how to construct a budget, join the Cottonwood Extension District on January 16th. This Personal Finance Workshop will take place at 10 am at Great Bend Public Library. Contact Karissa at 620-793-1910 to learn more.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: New Year - financial resolutions

Great Bend Recreation Commission Board meeting Jan. 13&nbsp; -&nbsp; 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation Center, 1214 Stone Street

1. Call to Order &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Introduction of Guests

2. Consent Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;2.1 Minutes: December 9th, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;2.2 Bills Payable &nbsp; &nbsp;2.3 Financial Reports

3. Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;3.1 Liaison Report USD#428/City of Great Bend &nbsp; &nbsp;3.2 Board Members’ Comments

4. Old Business Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;4.1 Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.2 Fitness-Heath-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.3 Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.4 December Attendance Report

5. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;5.1 Election of Officers &nbsp; &nbsp;5.2 Annual Conflict of Interest Disclosure &nbsp; &nbsp;5.3 Board Meeting Calendar &nbsp; &nbsp;5.4 Basketball Rules Update

Great Bend Recreation Commission Board meeting Jan. 13&nbsp; -&nbsp; 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation Center, 1214 Stone StreetAgenda1. Call to Order &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Introduction of Guests2. Consent Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;2.1 Minutes: December 9th, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;2.2 Bills Payable &nbsp; &nbsp;2.3 Financial Reports3. Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;3.1 Liaison Report USD#428/City of Great Bend &nbsp; &nbsp;3.2 Board Members’ Comments4. Old Business Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;4.1 Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.2 Fitness-Heath-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.3 Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.4 December Attendance Report5. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;5.1 Election of Officers &nbsp; &nbsp;5.2 Annual Conflict of Interest Disclosure &nbsp; &nbsp;5.3 Board Meeting Calendar &nbsp; &nbsp;5.4 Basketball Rules Update6. Other Business:7. Adjournment

Great Bend Rec Board meeting agenda (1/13)

A new class of elected officials have officially been sworn into office. Under Kansas statute, elected county officials are to be sworn into their respective offices on the second Monday of the New Year following the general election. That meant moving Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting to Monday morning to swear in various elected officials and members of the Barton County Sheriff's Office. 

Commissioners Barb Esfeld and Shawn Hutchinson both won uncontested races in the second and third districts, respectively.

"As of today, Commissioner Esfeld and I have now worked with this commission longer than we worked with the past commission," Hutchinson said. "This is no longer the new Barton County Commission. This is the Barton County Commission. I feel very blessed to work with all four of you and I think we all bring something very special to the table."

Levi Morris, former Barton County attorney, was sworn into his new role of district judge in the 20th Judicial District by Chief Judge Carey Hipp. District Judge Lisa Beran was also sworn in. Morris defeated Donald E. Anderson in last August's primary and was uncontested in November's general election.

J. Colin Reynolds, a former assistant county attorney under Morris, was sworn into his new role of county attorney. Reynolds was uncontested in both the primary and general elections.

County Clerk Bev Schmeidler kept her position in that office after defeating Alicia Straub in the August primary. Schmeidler ran uncontested in the general election.

Susan Williams, a former deputy register of deeds, defeated incumbent Glennda French in the August primary and won the general election against French's write-in bid.

Sheriff Brian Bellendir was sworn into his historic fourth term in that office. Bellendir ran uncontested in both races to become the first Barton County sheriff to ever be elected to a fourth four-year term. Following the swearing in ceremony of county officials in Court Room A at the courthouse, Bellendirs staff was sworn in by Schmeidler in the courthouse rotunda.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736791938941.jpeg" alt="Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler swears in members of the Barton County Sheriff's Office Monday morning in the courthouse rotunda." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler swears in members of the Barton County Sheriff's Office Monday morning in the courthouse rotunda.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA new class of elected officials have officially been sworn into office. Under Kansas statute, elected county officials are to be sworn into their respective offices on the second Monday of the New Year following the general election. That meant moving Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting to Monday morning to swear in various elected officials and members of the Barton County Sheriff's Office. Commissioners Barb Esfeld and Shawn Hutchinson both won uncontested races in the second and third districts, respectively."As of today, Commissioner Esfeld and I have now worked with this commission longer than we worked with the past commission," Hutchinson said. "This is no longer the new Barton County Commission. This is the Barton County Commission. I feel very blessed to work with all four of you and I think we all bring something very special to the table."Levi Morris, former Barton County attorney, was sworn into his new role of district judge in the 20th Judicial District by Chief Judge Carey Hipp. District Judge Lisa Beran was also sworn in. Morris defeated Donald E. Anderson in last August's primary and was uncontested in November's general election.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736792032077.jpeg" alt="20th Judicial District Chief Judge Carey Hipp swears in new Barton County Attorney J. Colin Reynolds." />
 <figcaption>20th Judicial District Chief Judge Carey Hipp swears in new Barton County Attorney J. Colin Reynolds.</figcaption>
 </figure>J. Colin Reynolds, a former assistant county attorney under Morris, was sworn into his new role of county attorney. Reynolds was uncontested in both the primary and general elections.County Clerk Bev Schmeidler kept her position in that office after defeating Alicia Straub in the August primary. Schmeidler ran uncontested in the general election.Susan Williams, a former deputy register of deeds, defeated incumbent Glennda French in the August primary and won the general election against French's write-in bid.Sheriff Brian Bellendir was sworn into his historic fourth term in that office. Bellendir ran uncontested in both races to become the first Barton County sheriff to ever be elected to a fourth four-year term. Following the swearing in ceremony of county officials in Court Room A at the courthouse, Bellendirs staff was sworn in by Schmeidler in the courthouse rotunda.

Barton County elected officials, deputies sworn into office

After initially voting against solar regulations in December, the Great
Bend City Council approved the original ordinance at their first meeting in
January. The three-mile zoning jurisdiction around Great Bend now has similar
regulations as the rest of Barton County for solar development. 

Councilmember
Alan Moeder noted before the 5-2 vote in favor of the regulations that keeping
the same 1,000-foot setback throughout the entire county was best. 


"I had a lot of people call me after the previous meeting when it got cancelled," said Moeder. "They were all fine with the county regulations. They were not in favor of the solar project, but they were fine with the county regulations. I also had people very much in favor of solar, and they were complaining to me that nothing was done."

The 1,000-foot setback keeps any solar development distanced from the property
line of a tract with a residence.


While no conditional use permits have been pulled yet to construct a solar plant,
Acciona Energy has shown interest in constructing such a development northeast
of Great Bend. In a presentation last February, Acciona Director of Development
Adam Stratton noted the two proposed solar plants would produce 150 megawatts
from each project. 


Councilmember Tina Mingenback abstained from voting on the regulations in
December but voted in favor of the ordinance in January.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708489095936.png" alt="A map presented in February 2024 of a proposed solar development project northeast of Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>A map presented in February 2024 of a proposed solar development project northeast of Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAfter initially voting against solar regulations in December, the Great
Bend City Council approved the original ordinance at their first meeting in
January. The three-mile zoning jurisdiction around Great Bend now has similar
regulations as the rest of Barton County for solar development. Councilmember
Alan Moeder noted before the 5-2 vote in favor of the regulations that keeping
the same 1,000-foot setback throughout the entire county was best. 
"I had a lot of people call me after the previous meeting when it got cancelled," said Moeder. "They were all fine with the county regulations. They were not in favor of the solar project, but they were fine with the county regulations. I also had people very much in favor of solar, and they were complaining to me that nothing was done."The 1,000-foot setback keeps any solar development distanced from the property
line of a tract with a residence.
While no conditional use permits have been pulled yet to construct a solar plant,
Acciona Energy has shown interest in constructing such a development northeast
of Great Bend. In a presentation last February, Acciona Director of Development
Adam Stratton noted the two proposed solar plants would produce 150 megawatts
from each project. 
Councilmember Tina Mingenback abstained from voting on the regulations in
December but voted in favor of the ordinance in January.
"I took it upon myself to talk to some people who live out by the college," said Mingenback. "I needed to get some education. Everyone wants some sort of regulations. I think it's good to follow along the lines of what the research the county has done and make it simple. If people have to come to us for approval, once you start having different numbers it just gets confusing."Stratton mentioned the solar powered electric generation facilities would
provide approximately 30 long-term jobs for Barton County. The solar farm would
be expected to pay an average of $1.6 million in property tax back to Barton
County each year.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Local