By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir recently expressed his satisfaction of working with the county attorney's office. County Attorney-elect Colin Reynolds said the feeling is mutual. After spending five years as an assistant county attorney in Barton County, and the last 20 months as Miami County Attorney in Paola, Reynolds will return to Great Bend after winning last Tuesday's general election.

"I'm ready to get back," Reynolds said. "I miss Western Kansas. I'm ready to jump in and get to do some things I've been thinking about doing for a few years but never was in the position to execute."

With current Barton County Attorney Levi Morris running for 20th Judicial District Judge, Reynolds won 2,444 votes as an uncontested candidate in August's primary election for county attorney. He was uncontested again in last Tuesday's general election.

"The hardest part of stepping into the big chair is all the management things you just don't' think about when you're an assistant," he said. "I have a big head start on knowing how to do budgets and manage staff that I wouldn't have if I came straight out from the assistant spot to county attorney."

A lifelong Kansan, Reynolds earned his law degree from Washburn University in Topeka. 

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostBarton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir recently expressed his satisfaction of working with the county attorney's office. County Attorney-elect Colin Reynolds said the feeling is mutual. After spending five years as an assistant county attorney in Barton County, and the last 20 months as Miami County Attorney in Paola, Reynolds will return to Great Bend after winning last Tuesday's general election."I'm ready to get back," Reynolds said. "I miss Western Kansas. I'm ready to jump in and get to do some things I've been thinking about doing for a few years but never was in the position to execute."With current Barton County Attorney Levi Morris running for 20th Judicial District Judge, Reynolds won 2,444 votes as an uncontested candidate in August's primary election for county attorney. He was uncontested again in last Tuesday's general election."The hardest part of stepping into the big chair is all the management things you just don't' think about when you're an assistant," he said. "I have a big head start on knowing how to do budgets and manage staff that I wouldn't have if I came straight out from the assistant spot to county attorney."A lifelong Kansan, Reynolds earned his law degree from Washburn University in Topeka.

Reynolds ready to step into Barton Co. Attorney role after serving as assistant

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (11/14)

At 2:07 a.m. a report of falls was made at 5506 Oil Center
Road.

At 3:18 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 20th &amp;
Washington.

At 11:41 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at SW 70 Road
&amp; SW 65 Avenue.

At 3:17 p.m. an accident was reported at 109 E. A Street in
Ellinwood.

At 4:36 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 199 on W. US 56
Highway.

At 9:51 p.m. the K-9 was called out to N. Park Avenue &amp;
W. Santa Fe Blvd in Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (11/14)

At 3:01 a.m. K-9 Niko was utilized during a traffic stop at
24th &amp; Jackson.

At 7:36 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 20th
&amp; 281 Bypass.

At 7:55 a.m. an accident was reported at 2600 24th
Street.

At 10 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2412 31st
Street.

At 2:37 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2006 Main.

At 5:04 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 304 Elm.

At 5:07 p.m. someone damaging her trash can was reported at
2301 Franklin.

At 6:22 p.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane was reported
at MM 202 on W. US 56 Highway.

At 7:21 p.m. a report of Tracy Spears assaulting another
employee was made at 3503 10th Street.

At 9:28 p.m. an officer arrested Aylinn Dominguez for DUI in
the 2100 block of 24th Street.

At 11:13 p.m. Sarah Huntley requested to talk to an officer
at 25 S. US 281 Highway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (11/14)FallsAt 2:07 a.m. a report of falls was made at 5506 Oil Center
Road.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:18 a.m. the K-9 was called out to 20th &amp;
Washington.Cattle OutAt 11:41 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at SW 70 Road
&amp; SW 65 Avenue.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:17 p.m. an accident was reported at 109 E. A Street in
Ellinwood.At 4:36 p.m. an accident was reported at MM 199 on W. US 56
Highway.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 9:51 p.m. the K-9 was called out to N. Park Avenue &amp;
W. Santa Fe Blvd in Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (11/14)K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:01 a.m. K-9 Niko was utilized during a traffic stop at
24th &amp; Jackson.Animal ComplaintAt 7:36 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 20th
&amp; 281 Bypass.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:55 a.m. an accident was reported at 2600 24th
Street.Sick PersonAt 10 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2412 31st
Street.Overdose / PoisoningAt 2:37 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2006 Main.At 5:04 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 304 Elm.Criminal DamageAt 5:07 p.m. someone damaging her trash can was reported at
2301 Franklin.Driving / Driver Complaint At 6:22 p.m. a vehicle unable to maintain a lane was reported
at MM 202 on W. US 56 Highway.AssaultAt 7:21 p.m. a report of Tracy Spears assaulting another
employee was made at 3503 10th Street.Traffic ArrestAt 9:28 p.m. an officer arrested Aylinn Dominguez for DUI in
the 2100 block of 24th Street.Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 11:13 p.m. Sarah Huntley requested to talk to an officer
at 25 S. US 281 Highway.

Cop Shop (11/14)

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730304703908.png" alt="Millers of Claflin.png" />
 <figcaption>Millers of Claflin.png</figcaption>
 </figure>You have an opportunity today to become the next instant finalist in the $20k Christmas Cash Giveaway! It's presented by Bauer Computers, Mayo Money Management and Moeder Plumbing Heating &amp; Air, Your Bryant Dealer - Whatever it takes!Sign up today at Miller's of Claflin. You can register from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.&nbsp;Find official contest rules, daily registration locations, instant finalist day calendar and more&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/48c5c560-0a08-486a-b6b9-c86c56f04063">HERE</a>

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11/14 BOOKED: Bradley Shumate on Barton County District Court warrant for Cruelty to Animals X4, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Tagan Moss-Barrett on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, and Illegal Tags, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Lee S. Leon on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Chelsea Buchanan on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Gavin Allen on Barton County District Court warrants for Aggravated Battery on LEO, Flee or Elude LEO, Driving While Suspended, No Ignition Interlock, Probation Violation, and Battery, to KDOC.

RELEASED: Tara Amador on Barton County District Court case for&nbsp;Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Bill Elliot on Barton County District Court case for Burglary, Criminal Damage to Property, and Theft of Property or Services, on $5,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Norma Ramirez on Barton County District Court case, on $10,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Gisela Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Bradley Shumate on Barton County District Court warrant for Cruelty to Animals X4, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Wyatt Gabel on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to KDOC post-release supervision.

RELEASED: Tagan Moss-Barrett on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, and Illegal Tags, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>11/14 BOOKED: Bradley Shumate on Barton County District Court warrant for Cruelty to Animals X4, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Tagan Moss-Barrett on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, and Illegal Tags, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Lee S. Leon on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Chelsea Buchanan on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,000 C/S.RELEASED: Gavin Allen on Barton County District Court warrants for Aggravated Battery on LEO, Flee or Elude LEO, Driving While Suspended, No Ignition Interlock, Probation Violation, and Battery, to KDOC.RELEASED: Tara Amador on Barton County District Court case for&nbsp;Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, by order of the court.RELEASED: Bill Elliot on Barton County District Court case for Burglary, Criminal Damage to Property, and Theft of Property or Services, on $5,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Norma Ramirez on Barton County District Court case, on $10,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Gisela Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, by order of the court.RELEASED: Bradley Shumate on Barton County District Court warrant for Cruelty to Animals X4, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Wyatt Gabel on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to KDOC post-release supervision.RELEASED: Tagan Moss-Barrett on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, and Illegal Tags, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (11/14)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

At the end of each academic year, Barton Community College Library
Director Darren Ivey creates a report that shows the inventory of the library,
located in the center of the Great Bend campus. 

Following the 2024 academic year,
Barton’s library had 11,657 print books. Ivey said for a community college the
size of Barton’s, the library should have approximately 28,000 books.


"What we're working on right now is trying to align our collection to the curriculum," said Ivey. "We're going through the course catalog and textbooks. We're trying to find subjects, names and topics. We're trying to find books that answer those to align better."

Ivey said the library staff has removed roughly 5,000 books over the past few
years because they were either outdated or did not conform to the curriculum.


Despite having thousands of eBooks, or digital books, Ivey told the Barton
Board of Trustees Tuesday that there is still value in physical books.


"There is research that says that actually holding a book improves reading comprehension, instead of reading from the screen," said Ivey. "There are some people that can't read on the screen because of various issues. I want to provide lots of formats. I'm perfectly fine with having all of these eBooks, but I also want to provide print services."

Through the Barton Community College Foundation, there is a library endowment
where citizens can donate funds to purchase library materials.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731534740453.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt the end of each academic year, Barton Community College Library
Director Darren Ivey creates a report that shows the inventory of the library,
located in the center of the Great Bend campus. Following the 2024 academic year,
Barton’s library had 11,657 print books. Ivey said for a community college the
size of Barton’s, the library should have approximately 28,000 books.
"What we're working on right now is trying to align our collection to the curriculum," said Ivey. "We're going through the course catalog and textbooks. We're trying to find subjects, names and topics. We're trying to find books that answer those to align better."Ivey said the library staff has removed roughly 5,000 books over the past few
years because they were either outdated or did not conform to the curriculum.
Despite having thousands of eBooks, or digital books, Ivey told the Barton
Board of Trustees Tuesday that there is still value in physical books.
"There is research that says that actually holding a book improves reading comprehension, instead of reading from the screen," said Ivey. "There are some people that can't read on the screen because of various issues. I want to provide lots of formats. I'm perfectly fine with having all of these eBooks, but I also want to provide print services."Through the Barton Community College Foundation, there is a library endowment
where citizens can donate funds to purchase library materials.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Library Director: Could use more printed books

The giving season is upon us and the Salvation Army in Great Bend is ready to do its part. Barton County Outreach Coordinator Jennifer Vest said volunteers are needed for the annual Red Kettle Campaign that begins this Saturday.

"Our Kettle campaigns are from this Saturday, Nov. 16, through Christmas Eve at Walmart at both doors," she said. "Then, on Nov. 29, we will start at both Dillons locations. That is from 10 a.m. to about 8 p.m., but even if somebody wants to donate just an hour, that would help out greatly."

Volunteers are needed to ring bells at the kettles and the cash donations made to the kettles stay local.

"Let's say they have a medical bill, a utility bill, or they're having hard time with rent, I'm able to use that funding to help pay for those," Vest said. "I've actually helped pay for glasses, medications. You name it and we can probably help with it to a certain extent."

Anyone interested in volunteering or donating can contact Vest at (620) 869-9447. Volunteers can register to ring and pick time slots by <a href="https://www.registertoring.com/">CLICKING HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731599525507.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe giving season is upon us and the Salvation Army in Great Bend is ready to do its part. Barton County Outreach Coordinator Jennifer Vest said volunteers are needed for the annual Red Kettle Campaign that begins this Saturday."Our Kettle campaigns are from this Saturday, Nov. 16, through Christmas Eve at Walmart at both doors," she said. "Then, on Nov. 29, we will start at both Dillons locations. That is from 10 a.m. to about 8 p.m., but even if somebody wants to donate just an hour, that would help out greatly."Volunteers are needed to ring bells at the kettles and the cash donations made to the kettles stay local."Let's say they have a medical bill, a utility bill, or they're having hard time with rent, I'm able to use that funding to help pay for those," Vest said. "I've actually helped pay for glasses, medications. You name it and we can probably help with it to a certain extent."Anyone interested in volunteering or donating can contact Vest at (620) 869-9447. Volunteers can register to ring and pick time slots by <a href="https://www.registertoring.com/">CLICKING HERE</a>.

Volunteers needed for Salvation Army's Kettle Campaign in Great Bend

Today Sunny, with a high near 65. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 66. Breezy, with a south wind 13 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. South wind 6 to 10 mph becoming north after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. North-northeast wind 7 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night Showers, mainly after midnight. Low around 45. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Monday Showers. High near 57. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 100%.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 52.

Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 30.

Wednesday A slight chance of rain and snow showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 44. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of snow showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 43.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 65. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 66. Breezy, with a south wind 13 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. South wind 6 to 10 mph becoming north after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. North-northeast wind 7 to 10 mph.Sunday Night Showers, mainly after midnight. Low around 45. Chance of precipitation is 80%.Monday Showers. High near 57. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 100%.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 52.Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 30.Wednesday A slight chance of rain and snow showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 44. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of snow showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 26.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 43.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

This fall, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center completed a pair of new
features outside of their facility, just northeast of Great Bend. The Melody
Marsh includes five outdoor, nature-themed musical instruments to welcome
visitors. 

The other piece includes a kiosk, near the parking lot, that helps
travelers. KWEC Director Curtis Wolf said the kiosk consists of a large map of
Cheyenne Bottoms and a panel of brochures. Along with wetlands-related
brochures, the Great Bend Visitors Guide is available for travelers.


"We go through a lot of brochures inside, but we wanted to have them available when people come through in the evenings or when we're not open," said Wolf. "I'm really pleased with how it turned out."

Funds for the KWEC projects came from the Dorothy Morrison Foundation.


The Percussion Play instruments include cattail chimes, bongo drums, flowers
with bells, and a Cyclone - a wheel with marbles that sounds like rain when
turned. The area, which is near the pollinator garden, also has artificial turf
for easy access.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731446828221.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThis fall, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center completed a pair of new
features outside of their facility, just northeast of Great Bend. The Melody
Marsh includes five outdoor, nature-themed musical instruments to welcome
visitors. The other piece includes a kiosk, near the parking lot, that helps
travelers. KWEC Director Curtis Wolf said the kiosk consists of a large map of
Cheyenne Bottoms and a panel of brochures. Along with wetlands-related
brochures, the Great Bend Visitors Guide is available for travelers.
"We go through a lot of brochures inside, but we wanted to have them available when people come through in the evenings or when we're not open," said Wolf. "I'm really pleased with how it turned out."Funds for the KWEC projects came from the Dorothy Morrison Foundation.
The Percussion Play instruments include cattail chimes, bongo drums, flowers
with bells, and a Cyclone - a wheel with marbles that sounds like rain when
turned. The area, which is near the pollinator garden, also has artificial turf
for easy access.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Easy access to Cheyenne Bottoms info with kiosk at KWEC

The question was asked repeatedly over the past few years:&nbsp; Was 2016 a fluke?

Most Democrats and Never-Trump Republicans thought so.&nbsp;

After all, Trump won by the slimmest of margins in a few pivotal swing states and lost the popular vote by nearly 3 million.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Then Trump’s tenure in the White House was marked by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/203198/presidential-approval-ratings-donald-trump.aspx">historically low</a>&nbsp;public approval.&nbsp; And his sagging popularity was key to the crushing defeat in 2020.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The MAGA coalition always posed a significant challenge.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

While it supported Trump unconditionally, the group constantly battled against public rebuke and narrow appeal.&nbsp; Moreover, it’s demographic characteristics, which skew male, rural and non-college, are typically obstacles for sustained political engagement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Frequently dismissed as racist deplorables, misogynists, weird, phobic, low-information,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/biden-attacks-trump-maga-republicans-threat-american-democracy/story?id=89121094">threats</a>&nbsp;to democracy, supporters of a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/fascism-meaning-harris-trump-kelly-fda56694feb1825dcf6477c8081a563d">fascist</a>, and more recently&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-supporters-garbage-puerto-rico-comic-e62ccf9108ba0ca8d1ee694f91a6867e">garbage</a>, the MAGA-hat-wearing voters could never be the foundation of an expansive electoral coalition.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Yet, Trump’s sweeping victory last week proved a broad coalition could be constructed around working-class voting blocks, stitched skillfully together by populist appeals and reinforced by widespread economic anxiety.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Successful presidential candidates in fact grow their base rather than being limited by it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump assembled a surprisingly diverse set of supporters, netting Republican gains in most&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/interactive/2024/11/politics/vote-shift-trump-election-dg/">counties</a>&nbsp;across the nation, flipping all 7 battleground states, winning the popular vote, and taking back Congress. In big cities, suburbs, rural areas, in red states and in blue, Trump’s margins improved.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The trend cut across&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.liberalpatriot.com/p/the-shattering-of-the-democratic">demographic categories</a>, with pronounced changes in Latino communities. In 2012, Mitt Romney won&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ropercenter.cornell.edu/how-groups-voted-2012">27 percent</a>&nbsp;of Latino voters. In 2024, Trump won&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.foxnews.com/elections/2024/general-results/voter-analysis">42 percent</a>.Trump’s performance among the working class improved as well. In 2020, Trump edged Biden’s working-class support by 4 points.&nbsp; This time it tripled to 12-points.&nbsp;

Among the white working-class, Trump enjoyed a 25-point margin over Biden. Against Harris, it rose to 30.&nbsp;Trump’s electoral influence also reached Kansas, where most&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ent.sos.ks.gov/grant.html#top">counties</a>&nbsp;shifted right.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In southern Republican strongholds like Cherokee (+2.7%), and the much larger Sedgwick (+1.6%), Trump’s margins advanced. They also improved in the blue college town counties of Douglas (+1.2%) and Riley (+3.3%). In the western counties where Latinos constitute a majority, Trump saw significant growth. Ford county improved 3 percent, Finney 6 percent, Seward 5 percent, and Grant 4 percent.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In short, the 2024 election was a uniform swing for Trump that showcased a new Republican coalition, one that approaches the diversity typically seen within the Democratic party.&nbsp;However, it would be a mistake to overreact and claim that a lasting realignment has taken place. It was a close election. The margin of victory in Wisconsin was 0.9%, 1.4% in Michigan, and 2.1% in Pennsylvania.&nbsp;

Keeping the coalition together will be difficult. Latinos are the new swing voters. And not long ago, Barack Obama drew a large share of the white working class. Circumstances change quickly and future developments could very well benefit Democrats.&nbsp;Finally, Trump’s opponents repeatedly claimed he was a danger to democracy.

Perhaps. But Trump is also a vivid expression of it.&nbsp;He forged and expanded a unique coalition, harnessing the strength of the very democratic institutions that his critics argue he wishes to destroy.&nbsp;It was no fluke.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215697316.png" alt="Submitted for Insight Kansas by Mark R. Joslyn,&nbsp;University of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Submitted for Insight Kansas by Mark R. Joslyn,&nbsp;University of Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>The question was asked repeatedly over the past few years:&nbsp; Was 2016 a fluke?Most Democrats and Never-Trump Republicans thought so.&nbsp;After all, Trump won by the slimmest of margins in a few pivotal swing states and lost the popular vote by nearly 3 million.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Then Trump’s tenure in the White House was marked by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/203198/presidential-approval-ratings-donald-trump.aspx">historically low</a>&nbsp;public approval.&nbsp; And his sagging popularity was key to the crushing defeat in 2020.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The MAGA coalition always posed a significant challenge.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;While it supported Trump unconditionally, the group constantly battled against public rebuke and narrow appeal.&nbsp; Moreover, it’s demographic characteristics, which skew male, rural and non-college, are typically obstacles for sustained political engagement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Frequently dismissed as racist deplorables, misogynists, weird, phobic, low-information,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/biden-attacks-trump-maga-republicans-threat-american-democracy/story?id=89121094">threats</a>&nbsp;to democracy, supporters of a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/fascism-meaning-harris-trump-kelly-fda56694feb1825dcf6477c8081a563d">fascist</a>, and more recently&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-supporters-garbage-puerto-rico-comic-e62ccf9108ba0ca8d1ee694f91a6867e">garbage</a>, the MAGA-hat-wearing voters could never be the foundation of an expansive electoral coalition.&nbsp; &nbsp;Yet, Trump’s sweeping victory last week proved a broad coalition could be constructed around working-class voting blocks, stitched skillfully together by populist appeals and reinforced by widespread economic anxiety.&nbsp;&nbsp;Successful presidential candidates in fact grow their base rather than being limited by it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump assembled a surprisingly diverse set of supporters, netting Republican gains in most&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/interactive/2024/11/politics/vote-shift-trump-election-dg/">counties</a>&nbsp;across the nation, flipping all 7 battleground states, winning the popular vote, and taking back Congress. In big cities, suburbs, rural areas, in red states and in blue, Trump’s margins improved.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The trend cut across&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.liberalpatriot.com/p/the-shattering-of-the-democratic">demographic categories</a>, with pronounced changes in Latino communities. In 2012, Mitt Romney won&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ropercenter.cornell.edu/how-groups-voted-2012">27 percent</a>&nbsp;of Latino voters. In 2024, Trump won&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.foxnews.com/elections/2024/general-results/voter-analysis">42 percent</a>.Trump’s performance among the working class improved as well. In 2020, Trump edged Biden’s working-class support by 4 points.&nbsp; This time it tripled to 12-points.&nbsp;Among the white working-class, Trump enjoyed a 25-point margin over Biden. Against Harris, it rose to 30.&nbsp;Trump’s electoral influence also reached Kansas, where most&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ent.sos.ks.gov/grant.html#top">counties</a>&nbsp;shifted right.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In southern Republican strongholds like Cherokee (+2.7%), and the much larger Sedgwick (+1.6%), Trump’s margins advanced. They also improved in the blue college town counties of Douglas (+1.2%) and Riley (+3.3%). In the western counties where Latinos constitute a majority, Trump saw significant growth. Ford county improved 3 percent, Finney 6 percent, Seward 5 percent, and Grant 4 percent.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In short, the 2024 election was a uniform swing for Trump that showcased a new Republican coalition, one that approaches the diversity typically seen within the Democratic party.&nbsp;However, it would be a mistake to overreact and claim that a lasting realignment has taken place. It was a close election. The margin of victory in Wisconsin was 0.9%, 1.4% in Michigan, and 2.1% in Pennsylvania.&nbsp;Keeping the coalition together will be difficult. Latinos are the new swing voters. And not long ago, Barack Obama drew a large share of the white working class. Circumstances change quickly and future developments could very well benefit Democrats.&nbsp;Finally, Trump’s opponents repeatedly claimed he was a danger to democracy.Perhaps. But Trump is also a vivid expression of it.&nbsp;He forged and expanded a unique coalition, harnessing the strength of the very democratic institutions that his critics argue he wishes to destroy.&nbsp;It was no fluke.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Insight Kansas: The surprising growth of the MAGA Coalition

For the period ending Oct. 31, Barton Community College reported
an increase in revenue by more than $2.3 million compared to this time last
year. Tuition is up more than $777,000 from last year. Local tax revenue, state
aid and interest are also up.


Barton Vice President of Administration Mark Dean said expenditures also
increased by more than $313,000, but that is not unusual for this time of
the year.


"We're frontloaded in a lot of different areas," said Dean. "Some departments purchase everything for the whole year in the July, August and September timeframe. We always run a little bit hot this time of the year. This year, we paid our property insurance all in a lump sum versus it being spread out multiple months."

The 2024-2025 budget at Barton estimated more than $37 million in revenue.
Through October, the college had $14.7 million.


Barton saw a 15.9% jump in enrollment this fall compared to last year’s
numbers. The preliminary report had Barton with 5,092 students enrolled in classes.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730221466843.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFor the period ending Oct. 31, Barton Community College reported
an increase in revenue by more than $2.3 million compared to this time last
year. Tuition is up more than $777,000 from last year. Local tax revenue, state
aid and interest are also up.
Barton Vice President of Administration Mark Dean said expenditures also
increased by more than $313,000, but that is not unusual for this time of
the year.
"We're frontloaded in a lot of different areas," said Dean. "Some departments purchase everything for the whole year in the July, August and September timeframe. We always run a little bit hot this time of the year. This year, we paid our property insurance all in a lump sum versus it being spread out multiple months."The 2024-2025 budget at Barton estimated more than $37 million in revenue.
Through October, the college had $14.7 million.
Barton saw a 15.9% jump in enrollment this fall compared to last year’s
numbers. The preliminary report had Barton with 5,092 students enrolled in classes.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Revenue up $2.3 million at Barton CC through October

Shoe Sensation, a regional chain of name brand family shoe stores, is hosting its 9th annual “Socks for Troops” fundraiser in all of their 240+ retail locations, including Great Bend. Last year, Shoe Sensation collected over 50,000 pairs of socks and hopes to continue the success of the program in 2024. 

This year, each store will be collecting socks for active-duty military personnel and/or local veterans in their communities. Shoe Sensation will have military approved socks for customers to purchase and donate in-store. Customers will receive 20% off socks purchased for a donation. Shoe Sensation locations will also serve as a drop off point for customers to bring in new socks they have collected on their own.&nbsp;

“It has been a tough year for everyone in our communities. This is no exception for the country's military personnel. A small gesture can go a long way in providing them with comfort during the holidays. We appreciate the sacrifices of our armed forces and their families make in their personal lives to protect our safety and our countries interests. This is one way we can show our appreciation to the men and women who serve in our armed forces and to our Veterans that have served our country,” said David Bateman, Community Connections Director and creator of the Socks for Troops program for Shoe Sensation.

“Socks for Troops” started Nov. 1 and Shoe Sensation will continue collecting socks until Dec. 31, 2024.&nbsp;

Socks will be donated to this local organization:&nbsp;VETERANS OF FORIEGN AFFAIRS c/o VFW POST #3111

Socks can be dropped off at the Shoe Sensation located here:&nbsp;3407 10th ste. B, GREAT BEND, KS 67530

BUSINESS NEWSShoe Sensation, a regional chain of name brand family shoe stores, is hosting its 9th annual “Socks for Troops” fundraiser in all of their 240+ retail locations, including Great Bend. Last year, Shoe Sensation collected over 50,000 pairs of socks and hopes to continue the success of the program in 2024. This year, each store will be collecting socks for active-duty military personnel and/or local veterans in their communities. Shoe Sensation will have military approved socks for customers to purchase and donate in-store. Customers will receive 20% off socks purchased for a donation. Shoe Sensation locations will also serve as a drop off point for customers to bring in new socks they have collected on their own.&nbsp;“It has been a tough year for everyone in our communities. This is no exception for the country's military personnel. A small gesture can go a long way in providing them with comfort during the holidays. We appreciate the sacrifices of our armed forces and their families make in their personal lives to protect our safety and our countries interests. This is one way we can show our appreciation to the men and women who serve in our armed forces and to our Veterans that have served our country,” said David Bateman, Community Connections Director and creator of the Socks for Troops program for Shoe Sensation.“Socks for Troops” started Nov. 1 and Shoe Sensation will continue collecting socks until Dec. 31, 2024.&nbsp;Socks will be donated to this local organization:&nbsp;VETERANS OF FORIEGN AFFAIRS c/o VFW POST #3111Socks can be dropped off at the Shoe Sensation located here:&nbsp;3407 10th ste. B, GREAT BEND, KS 67530

Great Bend business hosting 'Socks for Troops' fundraiser

Newly bought houseplants or those brought in from outside often lose at least a portion of their leaves. In order to understand why this occurs, we need to look at how these plants are grown and what the plant needs to do to adapt to its new environment. Houseplants are normally produced either under shade outdoors in southern states or in greenhouses. Also, many homeowners move their houseplants outside during the summer. Regardless, the plants receive much more sunlight than they do in an indoor environment. 

Research done in Florida in the late 1970s revealed that tropical plants grown under high light conditions produce ‘sun leaves' while those grown under low light conditions have ‘shade leaves.' These leaf types differ structurally in that sun leaves have less chlorophyll (the substance that plants use to convert sunlight to energy) and the chlorophyll that is present is located deeper inside the leaf. Sun leaves also tend to be thick, small and numerous while shade leaves are more thin, larger, and fewer in number. When plants are moved from one light condition to another they need time to adjust. This process is known as acclimatization. If they are forced to acclimatize too quickly, they will drop their sun leaves and produce a new set of shade leaves. If the acclimatization process is slower and less drastic, the plant can convert their sun leaves to the shade leaves that do better under low light. If going from shade to sun, this process is reversed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Some houseplants are acclimatized before they are sold but many are not. So how do we help our new houseplants or those moved inside acclimatize to their new home environment? Houseplants should start out in an area of the home that receives plenty of light and then gradually moved to their permanent, darker location. This process should take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the degree of difference in light levels between the initial and final location of the plant. Remember, plants need to be acclimatized whether they are moved from a sunny location to one that receives less light or from shade to sun. Understanding plant processes allows us to anticipate potential problems. Acclimatization gives our houseplants a greater&nbsp;chance of retaining leaves and avoiding the stress of completely replacing them.&nbsp;

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

K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus in Manhattan.&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Newly bought houseplants or those brought in from outside often lose at least a portion of their leaves. In order to understand why this occurs, we need to look at how these plants are grown and what the plant needs to do to adapt to its new environment. Houseplants are normally produced either under shade outdoors in southern states or in greenhouses. Also, many homeowners move their houseplants outside during the summer. Regardless, the plants receive much more sunlight than they do in an indoor environment. Research done in Florida in the late 1970s revealed that tropical plants grown under high light conditions produce ‘sun leaves' while those grown under low light conditions have ‘shade leaves.' These leaf types differ structurally in that sun leaves have less chlorophyll (the substance that plants use to convert sunlight to energy) and the chlorophyll that is present is located deeper inside the leaf. Sun leaves also tend to be thick, small and numerous while shade leaves are more thin, larger, and fewer in number. When plants are moved from one light condition to another they need time to adjust. This process is known as acclimatization. If they are forced to acclimatize too quickly, they will drop their sun leaves and produce a new set of shade leaves. If the acclimatization process is slower and less drastic, the plant can convert their sun leaves to the shade leaves that do better under low light. If going from shade to sun, this process is reversed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Some houseplants are acclimatized before they are sold but many are not. So how do we help our new houseplants or those moved inside acclimatize to their new home environment? Houseplants should start out in an area of the home that receives plenty of light and then gradually moved to their permanent, darker location. This process should take 4 to 8 weeks depending on the degree of difference in light levels between the initial and final location of the plant. Remember, plants need to be acclimatized whether they are moved from a sunny location to one that receives less light or from shade to sun. Understanding plant processes allows us to anticipate potential problems. Acclimatization gives our houseplants a greater&nbsp;chance of retaining leaves and avoiding the stress of completely replacing them.&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus in Manhattan.&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Why houseplants lose leaves after brought inside

The Hoisington High School football game at Southeast of Saline on Friday, Nov. 15 in the quarterfinals of the Class 2A playoffs has been moved to Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina. (231 E Cloud St, Salina, KS 67401) The picture below shows gates and where fans are to sit. Game time is still 7 p.m.&nbsp; The broadcast of the game will begin at 6:30 p.m. on 100.7 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://khokfm.com/#//">HERE</a>.

The Hoisington High School football game at Southeast of Saline on Friday, Nov. 15 in the quarterfinals of the Class 2A playoffs has been moved to Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina. (231 E Cloud St, Salina, KS 67401) The picture below shows gates and where fans are to sit. Game time is still 7 p.m.&nbsp; The broadcast of the game will begin at 6:30 p.m. on 100.7 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://khokfm.com/#//">HERE</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731602086384.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Hoisington football game Friday moved to Kansas Wesleyan 

USD 431 Hoisington continues to work on its emergency plan. Superintendent Patrick Crowdis provided updates during Monday's Board of Education meeting. The district's current emergency plan was put through a rubric when administrators attended ESSDACK meetings about plans.

"Ours did not score well," Crowdis said. "It was very basic, very bare-bones. It's still pretty basic but it's simple to look at and find what we need. To me, that's really important because if it's 45 pages long and every inch is covered in words, then when we are in an emergency, it's going to be much more difficult to use."

Administrators plan to meet with building emergency staff to create at a revised plan before coming back to the board with a final draft for approval. Crowdis is hoping to take action as soon as December.

"We will go into executive session," he said. "This is not necessarily public information. We don't want to share everything. Our students, especially the high school students, I know are very versed in many aspects of the emergency plan as we go through drills and different things like that, but that's not something we want to put out 100 percent publicly just to protect our students."

The district continues to look into emergency management systems that will help with notifications during an event. Crowdis said any system acquired by the district would add to the approved emergency plan, not replace part of it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696440128700.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostUSD 431 Hoisington continues to work on its emergency plan. Superintendent Patrick Crowdis provided updates during Monday's Board of Education meeting. The district's current emergency plan was put through a rubric when administrators attended ESSDACK meetings about plans."Ours did not score well," Crowdis said. "It was very basic, very bare-bones. It's still pretty basic but it's simple to look at and find what we need. To me, that's really important because if it's 45 pages long and every inch is covered in words, then when we are in an emergency, it's going to be much more difficult to use."Administrators plan to meet with building emergency staff to create at a revised plan before coming back to the board with a final draft for approval. Crowdis is hoping to take action as soon as December."We will go into executive session," he said. "This is not necessarily public information. We don't want to share everything. Our students, especially the high school students, I know are very versed in many aspects of the emergency plan as we go through drills and different things like that, but that's not something we want to put out 100 percent publicly just to protect our students."The district continues to look into emergency management systems that will help with notifications during an event. Crowdis said any system acquired by the district would add to the approved emergency plan, not replace part of it.

Board getting closer to passing emergency plan for Hoisington schools

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (11/13)

At 8:58 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 500
block of E. Barton County Road.

At 9:55 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 12 SE 70
Avenue.

At 10:50 a.m. falls were reported at 103 Union Street in
Hoisington.

At 12:25 p.m. a fire was reported in the 200 block of W. US
56 Highway in Pawnee Rock.

At 2:59 p.m. an accident was reported at 1650 NE 130 Avenue
in Claflin.

At 5:24 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56
Highway &amp; Kiowa Road.

At 8:36 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 41 Kiowa
Road.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (11/13)

At 5:31 a.m. Lish Alston reported smelling smoke at 2920 10th
Street.

At 9:09 a.m. Devan Ryan was reported to be loitering at 3413
10th Street. Ryan was advised to leave and left without incident.

At 4:55 p.m. an accident was reported at 4107 10th
Street.

At 8:42 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5512 Apache Road.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (11/13)Cattle OutAt 8:58 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 500
block of E. Barton County Road.Traumatic InjuriesAt 9:55 a.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 12 SE 70
Avenue.FallsAt 10:50 a.m. falls were reported at 103 Union Street in
Hoisington.FireAt 12:25 p.m. a fire was reported in the 200 block of W. US
56 Highway in Pawnee Rock.Non-Injury AccidentAt 2:59 p.m. an accident was reported at 1650 NE 130 Avenue
in Claflin.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:24 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56
Highway &amp; Kiowa Road.Breathing ProblemsAt 8:36 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 41 Kiowa
Road.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (11/13)Structure FireAt 5:31 a.m. Lish Alston reported smelling smoke at 2920 10th
Street.StalkingAt 9:09 a.m. Devan Ryan was reported to be loitering at 3413
10th Street. Ryan was advised to leave and left without incident.Non-Injury AccidentAt 4:55 p.m. an accident was reported at 4107 10th
Street.Hemorrhage / LacerationsAt 8:42 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5512 Apache Road.

Cop Shop (11/13)

11/13 BOOKED: Chara Fitzpatrick on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, Interference with LEO, and Battery on LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: Leroy Miessler on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Use of a Financial Card x10, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>11/13 BOOKED: Chara Fitzpatrick on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, Interference with LEO, and Battery on LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Leroy Miessler on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Use of a Financial Card x10, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (11/13)

The League of Women Voters of Great Bend, Barton County, is pleased to announce an upcoming public event, “Understanding Title IX in Education,” featuring Cheryl Brown, Title IX Coordinator at Barton Community College. The session, aimed at educators, students, administrators, and the broader community, will offer crucial insights into the scope and application of Title IX in K-12 education and on college campuses today.

Taking place on Saturday, November 16, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM in the lower-level meeting room of the Great Bend Public Library, this event will serve as an invaluable resource for those interested in the protections, policies, and implications of Title IX. Cheryl Brown will delve into the evolving landscape of Title IX, addressing its role in preventing discrimination based on sex in educational programs, including athletics and academic settings. Key topics will include navigating compliance challenges, understanding reporting processes, and protecting students’ rights.

The League of Women Voters of Great Bend, Barton County, is pleased to announce an upcoming public event, “Understanding Title IX in Education,” featuring Cheryl Brown, Title IX Coordinator at Barton Community College. The session, aimed at educators, students, administrators, and the broader community, will offer crucial insights into the scope and application of Title IX in K-12 education and on college campuses today.Taking place on Saturday, November 16, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM in the lower-level meeting room of the Great Bend Public Library, this event will serve as an invaluable resource for those interested in the protections, policies, and implications of Title IX. Cheryl Brown will delve into the evolving landscape of Title IX, addressing its role in preventing discrimination based on sex in educational programs, including athletics and academic settings. Key topics will include navigating compliance challenges, understanding reporting processes, and protecting students’ rights.

'Understanding Title IX in Education' presentation in Great Bend

A small housekeeping item during Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting had ties to a larger source of pride for elected officials. County positions continue to change and Administrator Matt Patzner asked for an update so the county's Authorized Position List would actually match the number of employees in each department.

"The Authorized Position Listing was last updated with the adoption of the 2025 Operating Budget back in August," he said. "At this time, it's suggested that a one-half full-time position be added to both Road and Bridge and Noxious Weed for both 2024 and 2025. This brings the total number of full-time positions to 191."

The conversation then turned to how the number of employees impacts the county budget and taxes. The county has allowed approximately 10 positions in recent years to expire due to natural attrition. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said when you take an employee's salaries and benefits, that's a lot of savings.

"You have a $10 million payroll," he said. "You have 200 employees. That's $50,000 a year for an employee, just a rough average. Ten of them, that's $500,000 a year. Over 10 years, we're saving the county $5 million. Right there, that pays for the courthouse renovation, let alone the money we had set aside for it. This is how we are remaining revenue neutral. This is how we are doing the things we're doing."

Patzner and commissioners credited county employees for their quality over quantity when it comes to taking on larger job roles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619714703743.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostA small housekeeping item during Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting had ties to a larger source of pride for elected officials. County positions continue to change and Administrator Matt Patzner asked for an update so the county's Authorized Position List would actually match the number of employees in each department."The Authorized Position Listing was last updated with the adoption of the 2025 Operating Budget back in August," he said. "At this time, it's suggested that a one-half full-time position be added to both Road and Bridge and Noxious Weed for both 2024 and 2025. This brings the total number of full-time positions to 191."The conversation then turned to how the number of employees impacts the county budget and taxes. The county has allowed approximately 10 positions in recent years to expire due to natural attrition. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said when you take an employee's salaries and benefits, that's a lot of savings."You have a $10 million payroll," he said. "You have 200 employees. That's $50,000 a year for an employee, just a rough average. Ten of them, that's $500,000 a year. Over 10 years, we're saving the county $5 million. Right there, that pays for the courthouse renovation, let alone the money we had set aside for it. This is how we are remaining revenue neutral. This is how we are doing the things we're doing."Patzner and commissioners credited county employees for their quality over quantity when it comes to taking on larger job roles.

Barton County maintaining a reduced payroll to help remain revenue neutral

Today Sunny, with a high near 62. West-southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south southeast in the afternoon.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 39. South wind 8 to 10 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 64. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 19 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 38 mph.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 67. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41.

Sunday A 30 percent chance of rain, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55.

Sunday Night A 50 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Monday Rain. The rain could be heavy at times. High near 56. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of rain before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 49.

Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 29.

Wednesday A 20 percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 41. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 62. West-southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south southeast in the afternoon.Tonight Clear, with a low around 39. South wind 8 to 10 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 64. Breezy, with a south wind 14 to 19 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 38 mph.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 67. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41.Sunday A 30 percent chance of rain, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55.Sunday Night A 50 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42.Monday Rain. The rain could be heavy at times. High near 56. Chance of precipitation is 80%.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of rain before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 49.Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of rain. Partly cloudy, with a low around 29.Wednesday A 20 percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 41. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

Staff from the Shafer Art Gallery at Barton Community College attended
the Kansas Museums Association Annual Conference last week in Fort Scott. 

In
partnership with the Shafer Gallery and the college, Great Bend Convention and
Visitors Bureau Director Christina Hayes said staff made a pitch to host the
conference next year in Great Bend.


"The CVB was in charge in getting a video together and the gift bags," said Hayes. "We gave out a little bottle of Rosewood wine, Rebarn gave us some dog treats, a cookie and a note that said 'We can't wait to host you in 2025.'"

As an ongoing quest to recruit out-of-town visitors, Hayes said the museums conference
will be hosted in Great Bend next year. Hayes expects between 150 and 200 people to attend the conference next year,
which will include overnight stays.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kansas Museums Association is designed to promote museums and provide leadership and training for the Kansas museum community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731449272522.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostStaff from the Shafer Art Gallery at Barton Community College attended
the Kansas Museums Association Annual Conference last week in Fort Scott. In
partnership with the Shafer Gallery and the college, Great Bend Convention and
Visitors Bureau Director Christina Hayes said staff made a pitch to host the
conference next year in Great Bend.
"The CVB was in charge in getting a video together and the gift bags," said Hayes. "We gave out a little bottle of Rosewood wine, Rebarn gave us some dog treats, a cookie and a note that said 'We can't wait to host you in 2025.'"As an ongoing quest to recruit out-of-town visitors, Hayes said the museums conference
will be hosted in Great Bend next year. Hayes expects between 150 and 200 people to attend the conference next year,
which will include overnight stays.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas Museums Association is designed to promote museums and provide leadership and training for the Kansas museum community.

Great Bend chosen to host Kansas Museums annual conference

Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) are crucial for large organizations, but tens or hundreds of pages in a binder can be difficult to navigate. The USD 428 Board of Education voted Monday night to utilize the My EOP app that would streamline important district policies and information to employees' phones. Great Bend's Director of Teaching and Learning JoAnn Blevins said it makes accessing important information more practical.

"As a building leader, just being able to have it there no matter if on the playground or the bus, no matter where I'm at, I have access to it," she said. "It's not convenient to carry around a 100-page manual and flip to it but your phone is there."

The app can include basic contact information for staff, buildings, and emergency services. Assistant Superintendent John Popp said specific district policies for situations like accidents, active-shooters, utility accidents, and severe weather can be accessed with the swipe of a finger. 

"Our Emergency Operations Plan is just short of 100 pages long, so yeah, to go find where the gas leak policy is, you can just pull up and pop it right here," he said.

In the event of something like a bomb threat, staff could fill out a form with descriptions like what type of bomb was mentioned and characteristics of the caller's voice while on another line.

The board agreed to pay $6,500 for the initial setup and first year of service. With unlimited staff access, the app will cost $3,500 for continued access and updates each subsequent year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731439675504.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostEmergency Operations Plans (EOPs) are crucial for large organizations, but tens or hundreds of pages in a binder can be difficult to navigate. The USD 428 Board of Education voted Monday night to utilize the My EOP app that would streamline important district policies and information to employees' phones. Great Bend's Director of Teaching and Learning JoAnn Blevins said it makes accessing important information more practical."As a building leader, just being able to have it there no matter if on the playground or the bus, no matter where I'm at, I have access to it," she said. "It's not convenient to carry around a 100-page manual and flip to it but your phone is there."The app can include basic contact information for staff, buildings, and emergency services. Assistant Superintendent John Popp said specific district policies for situations like accidents, active-shooters, utility accidents, and severe weather can be accessed with the swipe of a finger. "Our Emergency Operations Plan is just short of 100 pages long, so yeah, to go find where the gas leak policy is, you can just pull up and pop it right here," he said.In the event of something like a bomb threat, staff could fill out a form with descriptions like what type of bomb was mentioned and characteristics of the caller's voice while on another line.The board agreed to pay $6,500 for the initial setup and first year of service. With unlimited staff access, the app will cost $3,500 for continued access and updates each subsequent year.

USD 428 Board approves My EOP app to streamline emergency information

The Great Bend Recreation Commission’s mission is stated as providing
life-long leisure, cultural, sports, wellness and educational programs to
improve the quality of life of the community. Through feedback from the public,
city and board, the Great Bend Rec staff is reevaluating their goals for the
next two years. 

Executive Director Chris Umphres presented a goals survey to
the GBRC Board Monday about possible changes and projects for the future.


"If there are other things that you would like to add, this is the time to get it on there," said Umphres. "I'll do the same with staff. We'll rank them and start seeing where we want to put some priorities. This is not just for programs but also thing we may need to enhance the programs in Great Bend."

Several quality of life projects have recently been accomplished such as better
lighting at the Veterans Memorial Park walking trail, rock climbing wall, skate
park repairs, new splash pad, playground equipment, and restrooms at Langrehr
Field.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717612969628.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Recreation Commission’s mission is stated as providing
life-long leisure, cultural, sports, wellness and educational programs to
improve the quality of life of the community. Through feedback from the public,
city and board, the Great Bend Rec staff is reevaluating their goals for the
next two years. Executive Director Chris Umphres presented a goals survey to
the GBRC Board Monday about possible changes and projects for the future.
"If there are other things that you would like to add, this is the time to get it on there," said Umphres. "I'll do the same with staff. We'll rank them and start seeing where we want to put some priorities. This is not just for programs but also thing we may need to enhance the programs in Great Bend."Several quality of life projects have recently been accomplished such as better
lighting at the Veterans Memorial Park walking trail, rock climbing wall, skate
park repairs, new splash pad, playground equipment, and restrooms at Langrehr
Field.
The Great Bend Rec Board will return their surveys to administration in the next couple of weeks to set the goals for the next two years.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;