Today A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming south southeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southeast wind 6 to 9 mph.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. South wind 7 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. South-southeast wind around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Thursday A chance of showers between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. South wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Thursday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 7 p.m., then showers and thunderstorms likely between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 10 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 84.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Sunday Partly sunny, with a high near 82.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59.

Labor Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming south southeast 5 to 8 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southeast wind 6 to 9 mph.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. South wind 7 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. South-southeast wind around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Thursday A chance of showers between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. South wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Thursday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 7 p.m., then showers and thunderstorms likely between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 10 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 84.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.Sunday Partly sunny, with a high near 82.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59.Labor Day Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.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.6Ok_RrqKoBGpnjeW-_xNcP8o4CmzYlYQlu_QSh7eDFc/s/1305943094/br/247910167454-l">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.&nbsp; Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

&nbsp;When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.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.6Ok_RrqKoBGpnjeW-_xNcP8o4CmzYlYQlu_QSh7eDFc/s/1305943094/br/247910167454-l">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active AdvisoriesWarning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Gathering Pond, Geary County</li><li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li><li>Lake Afton, Sedgwick County</li><li>Melvern Outlet River Pond, Osage County</li>
 </ul>Watch&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Amesbury Lake, Johnson County (Added Aug. 23)</li><li>Atchison City Lake #8, Atchison County</li><li>Atchison State Fishing Lake, Atchison County</li><li>Augusta City Lake, Butler County (Added Aug. 23)</li><li>Cedar Lake, Johnson County</li><li>Eagle Lake (Bel Aire), Sedgwick County</li><li>King Lake, Lyon County</li><li>Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County</li><li>Louisburg City Lake, Miami County</li><li>Melvern Outlet Swim Pond, Osage County</li><li>Sabetha City Lake, Nemaha County</li>
 </ul>Lifted&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County</li><li>River Pond (Tuttle Creek State Park), Pottawatomie and Riley Counties</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.&nbsp; Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.&nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.&nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.&nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.&nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.</li><li>Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may&nbsp; view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please&nbsp; follow this link: https://bit.ly/49ISRf2. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any&nbsp; item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting August 27, 2024 9:00 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: A. Call Meeting to Order. B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. D. 1. Consider the minutes of the August 6, 2024, and the August&nbsp; 13, 2024, Regular Meetings. 2. Minutes of the August 20, 2024, Regular Meeting is not available. E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of&nbsp; any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After&nbsp;&nbsp;being recognized, that person should state their name and the&nbsp; name of any organization represented. Statements should be&nbsp; limited to five minutes. F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the&nbsp; meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone&nbsp; using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to&nbsp; avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts&nbsp; Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the&nbsp; period of August 13, 2024, and ending August 27, 2024.

III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous&nbsp;&nbsp;Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. -There is no Old Business at this time.

IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the&nbsp; Commission will be heard at this time. ITEM A. JUVENILE SERVICES: Fiscal Year 2025 Carry-Over Budget: -Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, will provide&nbsp; details. Juvenile Services seeks approval of the Fiscal Year 2025 Carry-over Budget. This includes $77,822.93 from Core&nbsp; programming and $21,188.00 from Immediate Intervention for a&nbsp; total of $99,010.93. If approved, monies from the Core&nbsp; Programming will be used to fund contractual services, training,&nbsp; supplies and equipment. Immediate Intervention funds can only&nbsp; be used for evidence-based curriculum, incentives or referrals to&nbsp; outside services for youth.

ITEM B. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Fiscal Year 2025&nbsp;Carry-over Reimbursement Plan Budget: -Brooke Haulmark, CKCC Director, will provide details. The&nbsp; Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) requires a budget&nbsp; submission of local program funding collected by Community&nbsp; Corrections agencies from program fees and&nbsp; reimbursements. These budgets require the review and&nbsp; approval of the Barton County Commissioners, as the&nbsp; Administrative County for the District to which the plan pertains.

ITEM C. HEALTH DEPARTMENT: Brentwood Builders LLC – Change Order on Nursing Station Update: -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. Barton&nbsp; County sought an experienced and qualified construction firm,&nbsp; licensed in the State of Kansas, to remodel the clinical/nurse’s&nbsp;&nbsp;station area at the Barton County Health Department. On&nbsp;&nbsp;March 5, 2024, the Commission authorized Brentwood Builders to&nbsp; perform the update for a total of $182,748.00. As the project&nbsp; nears completion, a $3,843.30 change order has been submitted&nbsp; for painting.

ITEM D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make&nbsp; a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time&nbsp; as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the&nbsp; justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be&nbsp; discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will&nbsp; attend the executive session and the time at which the regular&nbsp;&nbsp;session shall resume.

V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will&nbsp; be heard.

A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will&nbsp; consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified&nbsp; positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda&nbsp; meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular&nbsp; County business. Similar action may take place throughout the&nbsp; day.

-County business offices will be closed in observance of the&nbsp; Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 2, 204. The Health&nbsp; Department, the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office and the&nbsp; Landfill will also be closed. Emergency services will be in normal&nbsp;&nbsp;operation. As a result of the closure, the next Commission&nbsp; meeting will be Tuesday, September 10, 2024. 

B. APPOINTMENTS: -Although subject to change, the following appointments have&nbsp; been scheduled: 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting –&nbsp; Program Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.

10:15 a.m. – Jail Program Outcomes – Julie Kramp, The Center&nbsp; Executive Director and project partners. 

10:45 a.m. – EEC Update – Judith Castro, EEC President.

11:00 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator. 

Noon – Departmental Visit with the Register of Deeds Office. 

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m.&nbsp; Brenda Kaiser, Human Resource Director, scheduled for August&nbsp; 29, 2024. 

VI. OTHER BUSINESS: A. Discussion Items. B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for&nbsp; initial consideration at this time. C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission&nbsp; Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on&nbsp; Tuesdays. E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal&nbsp; appointments related to County business at their discretion. F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday,&nbsp; September 10, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630010086631.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may&nbsp; view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please&nbsp; follow this link: https://bit.ly/49ISRf2. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any&nbsp; item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting August 27, 2024 9:00 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: A. Call Meeting to Order. B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. D. 1. Consider the minutes of the August 6, 2024, and the August&nbsp; 13, 2024, Regular Meetings. 2. Minutes of the August 20, 2024, Regular Meeting is not available. E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of&nbsp; any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After&nbsp;&nbsp;being recognized, that person should state their name and the&nbsp; name of any organization represented. Statements should be&nbsp; limited to five minutes. F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the&nbsp; meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone&nbsp; using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to&nbsp; avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: -Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts&nbsp; Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the&nbsp; period of August 13, 2024, and ending August 27, 2024. III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous&nbsp;&nbsp;Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. -There is no Old Business at this time. IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the&nbsp; Commission will be heard at this time. ITEM A. JUVENILE SERVICES: Fiscal Year 2025 Carry-Over Budget: -Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, will provide&nbsp; details. Juvenile Services seeks approval of the Fiscal Year 2025 Carry-over Budget. This includes $77,822.93 from Core&nbsp; programming and $21,188.00 from Immediate Intervention for a&nbsp; total of $99,010.93. If approved, monies from the Core&nbsp; Programming will be used to fund contractual services, training,&nbsp; supplies and equipment. Immediate Intervention funds can only&nbsp; be used for evidence-based curriculum, incentives or referrals to&nbsp; outside services for youth. ITEM B. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Fiscal Year 2025&nbsp;Carry-over Reimbursement Plan Budget: -Brooke Haulmark, CKCC Director, will provide details. The&nbsp; Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) requires a budget&nbsp; submission of local program funding collected by Community&nbsp; Corrections agencies from program fees and&nbsp; reimbursements. These budgets require the review and&nbsp; approval of the Barton County Commissioners, as the&nbsp; Administrative County for the District to which the plan pertains.ITEM C. HEALTH DEPARTMENT: Brentwood Builders LLC – Change Order on Nursing Station Update: -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. Barton&nbsp; County sought an experienced and qualified construction firm,&nbsp; licensed in the State of Kansas, to remodel the clinical/nurse’s&nbsp;&nbsp;station area at the Barton County Health Department. On&nbsp;&nbsp;March 5, 2024, the Commission authorized Brentwood Builders to&nbsp; perform the update for a total of $182,748.00. As the project&nbsp; nears completion, a $3,843.30 change order has been submitted&nbsp; for painting. ITEM D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make&nbsp; a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time&nbsp; as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the&nbsp; justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be&nbsp; discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will&nbsp; attend the executive session and the time at which the regular&nbsp;&nbsp;session shall resume.V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will&nbsp; be heard.A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will&nbsp; consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified&nbsp; positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda&nbsp; meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular&nbsp; County business. Similar action may take place throughout the&nbsp; day. -County business offices will be closed in observance of the&nbsp; Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 2, 204. The Health&nbsp; Department, the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office and the&nbsp; Landfill will also be closed. Emergency services will be in normal&nbsp;&nbsp;operation. As a result of the closure, the next Commission&nbsp; meeting will be Tuesday, September 10, 2024. B. APPOINTMENTS: -Although subject to change, the following appointments have&nbsp; been scheduled: 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting –&nbsp; Program Update – Barry McManaman, County Engineer.10:15 a.m. – Jail Program Outcomes – Julie Kramp, The Center&nbsp; Executive Director and project partners. 10:45 a.m. – EEC Update – Judith Castro, EEC President.11:00 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator. Noon – Departmental Visit with the Register of Deeds Office. THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m.&nbsp; Brenda Kaiser, Human Resource Director, scheduled for August&nbsp; 29, 2024. VI. OTHER BUSINESS: A. Discussion Items. B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for&nbsp; initial consideration at this time. C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission&nbsp; Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on&nbsp; Tuesdays. E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal&nbsp; appointments related to County business at their discretion. F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday,&nbsp; September 10, 2024.VII. ADJOURN<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (8/27)

News from the Oil Patch, Aug. 28. John P. Tretbar

Domestic crude production returns to record territory. The weekly tally from the Energy Information Administration shows US output rose to the second highest weekly average ever, 13,410,000 barrels per day. That's just five thousand daily barrels shy of the all-time high achieved two weeks earlier. The four-week average is up six percent from the same four weeks last year. Cumulative production so far this year is up more than seven percent over a year ago.

The Energy Department continues to buy low to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, after selling high to tame prices after the Ukraine invasion. The government took delivery last week on another 600,000 barrels of crude at prices roughly $20 a barrel lower than the sales prices two years ago.

The EIA said commercial crude inventories dropped by nearly five million barrels last week to 426 million barrels. That's about five percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

The US imported more crude oil than we shipped out by about two-point-six million barrels per day. Product exports outpaced imports by more than five million barrels per day. EIA said crude imports last week averaged 6.7 million barrels a day, up five percent from a week ago. At just over four million barrels per day, crude Exports were up slightly last week.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up one at 13 rigs east of Wichita and up two at 19 rigs in Western Kansas. The total is up 19% from a month ago but down about 16% last year at this time.

This week's completions reporting from Independent Oil and Gas Service notes 10 newly-completed wells in Western Kansas including one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. Add 16 wells east of Wichita for a weekly total of 26. That's 862 so far this year, compared to 1,120 a year ago. Regulators approved 25 new drilling permits across Kansas last week. There are two in Barton County out of six in Western Kansas. The year-to-date total is 639 permits, down from over 800 a year ago.

As Chinese profit margins dropped, so did Chinese interest in Russian crude oil, allowing India to surpass China as Moscow's biggest customer. Reuters reports 44% of India's crude imports last month, more than two million barrels a day, came from Russia. That's up four percent from the month before and 12 percent higher than a year ago.

Mexico's first Liquefied Natural Gas facility ships its first cargoes. They set sail from a floating platform off Mexico's northeast coast earlier this month, then traveled through the Panama Canal to an import facility on Mexico's Baja peninsula. The shipment falls under the US Energy Department's scrutiny and approval because the export terminal is fed by natural gas sourced from the United States.

Saudi Arabia's national re-branding effort away from crude oil will shrink its long term oil investments by $40 BILLION in the next four years. According to Goldman Sachs, the kingdom hopes to invest some one trillion dollars in non-oil sectors by the end of the decade, although they still view natural gas as a key contributor. Bloomberg reports Saudi oil earnings have dropped around one-third in just two years.

Libya’s eastern government said it will shut down crude output and exports, as its fight for control of the central bank and the nation’s oil riches threatens a new round of conflict. Crude traders also eyed the escalating tensions in and around Israel.

A Greek-flagged oil tanker was repeatedly attacked last week, and then abandoned in the Red Sea. It's now burning, but has NOT sprung a major oil leak. This is the most serious attack in weeks in the area where rebels have disrupted $1 trillion in regional trade and relief shipments. The US State Department says the rebels appear determined to sink the ship and its cargo of about one million barrels of crude. The crew was evacuated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Aug. 28. John P. TretbarDomestic crude production returns to record territory. The weekly tally from the Energy Information Administration shows US output rose to the second highest weekly average ever, 13,410,000 barrels per day. That's just five thousand daily barrels shy of the all-time high achieved two weeks earlier. The four-week average is up six percent from the same four weeks last year. Cumulative production so far this year is up more than seven percent over a year ago.The Energy Department continues to buy low to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, after selling high to tame prices after the Ukraine invasion. The government took delivery last week on another 600,000 barrels of crude at prices roughly $20 a barrel lower than the sales prices two years ago.The EIA said commercial crude inventories dropped by nearly five million barrels last week to 426 million barrels. That's about five percent below the five-year average for this time of year.The US imported more crude oil than we shipped out by about two-point-six million barrels per day. Product exports outpaced imports by more than five million barrels per day. EIA said crude imports last week averaged 6.7 million barrels a day, up five percent from a week ago. At just over four million barrels per day, crude Exports were up slightly last week.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service is up one at 13 rigs east of Wichita and up two at 19 rigs in Western Kansas. The total is up 19% from a month ago but down about 16% last year at this time.This week's completions reporting from Independent Oil and Gas Service notes 10 newly-completed wells in Western Kansas including one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. Add 16 wells east of Wichita for a weekly total of 26. That's 862 so far this year, compared to 1,120 a year ago. Regulators approved 25 new drilling permits across Kansas last week. There are two in Barton County out of six in Western Kansas. The year-to-date total is 639 permits, down from over 800 a year ago.As Chinese profit margins dropped, so did Chinese interest in Russian crude oil, allowing India to surpass China as Moscow's biggest customer. Reuters reports 44% of India's crude imports last month, more than two million barrels a day, came from Russia. That's up four percent from the month before and 12 percent higher than a year ago.Mexico's first Liquefied Natural Gas facility ships its first cargoes. They set sail from a floating platform off Mexico's northeast coast earlier this month, then traveled through the Panama Canal to an import facility on Mexico's Baja peninsula. The shipment falls under the US Energy Department's scrutiny and approval because the export terminal is fed by natural gas sourced from the United States.Saudi Arabia's national re-branding effort away from crude oil will shrink its long term oil investments by $40 BILLION in the next four years. According to Goldman Sachs, the kingdom hopes to invest some one trillion dollars in non-oil sectors by the end of the decade, although they still view natural gas as a key contributor. Bloomberg reports Saudi oil earnings have dropped around one-third in just two years.Libya’s eastern government said it will shut down crude output and exports, as its fight for control of the central bank and the nation’s oil riches threatens a new round of conflict. Crude traders also eyed the escalating tensions in and around Israel.A Greek-flagged oil tanker was repeatedly attacked last week, and then abandoned in the Red Sea. It's now burning, but has NOT sprung a major oil leak. This is the most serious attack in weeks in the area where rebels have disrupted $1 trillion in regional trade and relief shipments. The US State Department says the rebels appear determined to sink the ship and its cargo of about one million barrels of crude. The crew was evacuated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Production up; stockpiles down

From Great Bend Economic Development...

Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) announces the 2024 Grow Workforce Summit, a premier event designed to inform and inspire employers and managers in the Barton County area. This year’s summit, organized in collaboration with the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, Barton Community College, KansasWorks, and local business professionals, promises to be an invaluable resource for the local workforce.

Event Details: &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Date:&nbsp;November 13, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Location:&nbsp;Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th Street

Schedule: &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Workforce Sessions: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hiring and Retaining Remote Workers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Welcome To GB - Resources and Connections &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Apprenticeship and Internship &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lunch &amp; Keynote Speaker (Phillip Kelley):&nbsp;Noon to 1:30 pm &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Networking and Resource Fair for Employers:&nbsp;1:30 pm to 2:15 pm &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Workforce Panel Discussion:&nbsp;2:30 pm to 3:30 pm &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Job Fair &amp; Business Expo:&nbsp;4:30 pm to 6:00 pm

The Grow Workforce Summit offers a comprehensive agenda, including educational sessions, an inspiring keynote speaker, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and a job fair. During the job fair, job seekers will benefit from specialized breakout sessions led by experts from KansasWorks, Barton Community College, and seasoned career coaches, focusing on the essential soft skills needed to thrive in today’s job market.

The luncheon will feature keynote speaker Phillip Kelley, Founder of Purpose-Driven Coaching, Overcomer Academy, and Iceberg Leadership, and former team Chaplain/Character Coach for the Kansas City Chiefs. Phillip will share his insights on leadership, purpose, and overcoming challenges in the workplace, aiming to motivate and inspire all attendees.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the various resources available to the business community, gain new insights through workforce sessions, and connect directly with local employers during the Job Fair. Exciting giveaways and innovative opportunities for business exposure are just a few of the additional highlights of the event.

Registration and Sponsorship:&nbsp;To secure your spot at the Grow Workforce Summit or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact GBED staff at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@gbedinc.com">info@gbedinc.com</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.gbedinc.com/growworkforce">www.gbedinc.com/growworkforce</a>. Early registration is highly recommended, as space is limited.

Join us in elevating our workforce strategies, empowering our businesses, and contributing to the continued prosperity of the Barton County area. We look forward to seeing you at the Grow Workforce Summit on Nov. 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724680581735.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend Economic Development...Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) announces the 2024 Grow Workforce Summit, a premier event designed to inform and inspire employers and managers in the Barton County area. This year’s summit, organized in collaboration with the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, Barton Community College, KansasWorks, and local business professionals, promises to be an invaluable resource for the local workforce.Event Details: &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Date:&nbsp;November 13, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Location:&nbsp;Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th StreetSchedule: &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Workforce Sessions: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hiring and Retaining Remote Workers &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Welcome To GB - Resources and Connections &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; o&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Apprenticeship and Internship &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lunch &amp; Keynote Speaker (Phillip Kelley):&nbsp;Noon to 1:30 pm &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Networking and Resource Fair for Employers:&nbsp;1:30 pm to 2:15 pm &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Workforce Panel Discussion:&nbsp;2:30 pm to 3:30 pm &nbsp; &nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Job Fair &amp; Business Expo:&nbsp;4:30 pm to 6:00 pm<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724680602302.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Grow Workforce Summit offers a comprehensive agenda, including educational sessions, an inspiring keynote speaker, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and a job fair. During the job fair, job seekers will benefit from specialized breakout sessions led by experts from KansasWorks, Barton Community College, and seasoned career coaches, focusing on the essential soft skills needed to thrive in today’s job market.The luncheon will feature keynote speaker Phillip Kelley, Founder of Purpose-Driven Coaching, Overcomer Academy, and Iceberg Leadership, and former team Chaplain/Character Coach for the Kansas City Chiefs. Phillip will share his insights on leadership, purpose, and overcoming challenges in the workplace, aiming to motivate and inspire all attendees.Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the various resources available to the business community, gain new insights through workforce sessions, and connect directly with local employers during the Job Fair. Exciting giveaways and innovative opportunities for business exposure are just a few of the additional highlights of the event.Registration and Sponsorship:&nbsp;To secure your spot at the Grow Workforce Summit or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact GBED staff at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@gbedinc.com">info@gbedinc.com</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.gbedinc.com/growworkforce">www.gbedinc.com/growworkforce</a>. Early registration is highly recommended, as space is limited.Join us in elevating our workforce strategies, empowering our businesses, and contributing to the continued prosperity of the Barton County area. We look forward to seeing you at the Grow Workforce Summit on Nov. 13.

Great Bend Eco Devo announces 2024 Grow Workforce Summit

United Way of Central Kansas (UWCK) is proud to announce the success of its annual Stuff the Bus event, which provided 200 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to students across USD 428. Additionally, school supplies were donated to Great Bend High School, Barton Community College, Central Kansas Christian Academy (CKCA), Holy Family Elementary, and local daycares, ensuring that students of all ages have what they need to succeed.

This year’s event was made possible thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community and the dedicated support of our event sponsor, Credit Union of America. Through these combined efforts, UWCK was able to fill 22 backpacks for each grade level from Kindergarten through 8th grade in USD 428 schools, ensuring that students enter the school year equipped for success.

UWCK has been facilitating the Stuff the Bus program for over a decade. While the program has evolved over the years, its mission remains steadfast: to ensure that every student, regardless of their family's financial situation, has the necessary tools to thrive in the classroom.

"We believe that every student, no matter their family’s income, deserves to start the school year on the right foot," said Charell Owings, UWCK Executive Director. "No child should ever have to feel less than because they don’t have the same supplies as their peers. By working together as a community, we are able to provide much-needed support to families who are living paycheck to paycheck, helping them stretch their dollars a little further."

United Way of Central Kansas extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this year's Stuff the Bus event. These supply drives require so many people to ensure a successful outcome. From the volunteers who solicit donations, to the donors themselves, to Dianne Call who does the counting and organizing, and to the volunteers who put the supplies in the backpacks. Each individual is important. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our local students and helping to build a stronger, more equitable community.

For more information about United Way of Central Kansas and how you can support our initiatives, please visit www.uwck.org or call 620-792-2403.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724340363969.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Central Kansas (UWCK) is proud to announce the success of its annual Stuff the Bus event, which provided 200 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to students across USD 428. Additionally, school supplies were donated to Great Bend High School, Barton Community College, Central Kansas Christian Academy (CKCA), Holy Family Elementary, and local daycares, ensuring that students of all ages have what they need to succeed.This year’s event was made possible thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community and the dedicated support of our event sponsor, Credit Union of America. Through these combined efforts, UWCK was able to fill 22 backpacks for each grade level from Kindergarten through 8th grade in USD 428 schools, ensuring that students enter the school year equipped for success.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724340402810.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UWCK has been facilitating the Stuff the Bus program for over a decade. While the program has evolved over the years, its mission remains steadfast: to ensure that every student, regardless of their family's financial situation, has the necessary tools to thrive in the classroom."We believe that every student, no matter their family’s income, deserves to start the school year on the right foot," said Charell Owings, UWCK Executive Director. "No child should ever have to feel less than because they don’t have the same supplies as their peers. By working together as a community, we are able to provide much-needed support to families who are living paycheck to paycheck, helping them stretch their dollars a little further."United Way of Central Kansas extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this year's Stuff the Bus event. These supply drives require so many people to ensure a successful outcome. From the volunteers who solicit donations, to the donors themselves, to Dianne Call who does the counting and organizing, and to the volunteers who put the supplies in the backpacks. Each individual is important. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our local students and helping to build a stronger, more equitable community.For more information about United Way of Central Kansas and how you can support our initiatives, please visit www.uwck.org or call 620-792-2403.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

United Way's 'Stuff the Bus' provides 200 backpacks and supplies

Story by Maggie Harris Photo by Joe Vinduska&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton Community College has launched the Community Music School program to provide piano lessons for children ages 6-18 in the community while simultaneously supporting the education of Barton music students.

The Community Music School will be offered through the Fine and Performing Arts department as a part of the college’s music accompaniment program. Each child enrolled in the program will be paired with a Barton student who will provide one-on-one piano lessons. This non-credit offering allows parents to give their children access to quality music education while also contributing to the academic success of Barton students. The tuition, which starts at $15 for a 30-minute lesson, will go directly back to the student in the form of a scholarship.

Instructor of Keyboard Studies and Director of Accompaniment Dr. Alejandro Avila said the College recognized the demand for piano instruction in the area, and the school creates a unique opportunity for children to learn piano under the guidance of talented college students.

“The Community Music School is a win-win for everyone involved,” he said. “Not only do the children receive valuable piano lessons, but the tuition they pay goes directly towards scholarships for the college students, helping to support their education and future careers in music.”

The program is now open for enrollment, with lessons beginning the first week of September, and will feature an end-of-semester recital in December and May. Interested parents are encouraged to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://shows.bartonccc.edu/">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or contact Avila at (620) 792-9384 for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724424338093.png" alt="A Barton student receives instruction on the piano from Dr. Avila as a part of the music accompaniment program. Avila oversees the new Community Music School, which offers piano lessons to local children while supporting the academic success of Barton music students." />
 <figcaption>A Barton student receives instruction on the piano from Dr. Avila as a part of the music accompaniment program. Avila oversees the new Community Music School, which offers piano lessons to local children while supporting the academic success of Barton music students.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie Harris Photo by Joe Vinduska&nbsp;&nbsp;Barton Community College has launched the Community Music School program to provide piano lessons for children ages 6-18 in the community while simultaneously supporting the education of Barton music students.The Community Music School will be offered through the Fine and Performing Arts department as a part of the college’s music accompaniment program. Each child enrolled in the program will be paired with a Barton student who will provide one-on-one piano lessons. This non-credit offering allows parents to give their children access to quality music education while also contributing to the academic success of Barton students. The tuition, which starts at $15 for a 30-minute lesson, will go directly back to the student in the form of a scholarship.Instructor of Keyboard Studies and Director of Accompaniment Dr. Alejandro Avila said the College recognized the demand for piano instruction in the area, and the school creates a unique opportunity for children to learn piano under the guidance of talented college students.“The Community Music School is a win-win for everyone involved,” he said. “Not only do the children receive valuable piano lessons, but the tuition they pay goes directly towards scholarships for the college students, helping to support their education and future careers in music.”The program is now open for enrollment, with lessons beginning the first week of September, and will feature an end-of-semester recital in December and May. Interested parents are encouraged to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://shows.bartonccc.edu/">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or contact Avila at (620) 792-9384 for more information.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Barton launches Community Music School for young pianists

The City of Great Bend Street crews will begin work Tuesday, Aug. 27 on US-56 Highway, between Hubbard and Holland, to repair an area that has wash boarded. The city will have traffic control set up to one lane for westbound traffic with little to no interruption for eastbound. The city expects the work to take approximately two weeks. 

Please be attentive and aware as the city works to make repairs in the area.&nbsp;

If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Jason Cauley, Public Works Director, (620) 793-4150 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jcauley@greatbendks.net">jcauley@greatbendks.net</a>.

The City of Great Bend Street crews will begin work Tuesday, Aug. 27 on US-56 Highway, between Hubbard and Holland, to repair an area that has wash boarded. The city will have traffic control set up to one lane for westbound traffic with little to no interruption for eastbound. The city expects the work to take approximately two weeks. Please be attentive and aware as the city works to make repairs in the area.&nbsp;If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Jason Cauley, Public Works Director, (620) 793-4150 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jcauley@greatbendks.net">jcauley@greatbendks.net</a>.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Work to begin Tuesday on 10th Street, between Hubbard & Holland

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/23)

At 2:11 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 160 Road
&amp; Susank Road.

At 7:51 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 5006 8th
Street.

At 4:10 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 2801 Main
Street.

At 4:32 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 400 block
of E. Barton County Road.

At 11:35 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 25 Road
&amp; N. Washington.

At 5:20 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 20 Road
&amp; NE 110 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 10:33 a.m. a child in need of care was reported at W. 2nd
&amp; N. Kennedy Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 1:04 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 16th
&amp; Morton.

At 8:25 p.m. a fire was reported at 2535 Broadway.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (8/23)

At 1:13 a.m. Lucero Chavez reported a burglary at 915 Stone.

At 9:19 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5700
Rosewood Dr.

At 10:47 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5926
Eisenhower Avenue.

At 2:21 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Jackson.

At 4:41 p.m. criminal use of a financial card was reported
at 1609 Riviera Dr.

At 6:10 p.m. Nathan Moore was arrested for possession of
methamphetamine and marijuana at 2334 Main.

At 6:23 p.m. an accident was reported at 1221 10th
Street.

At 6:38 p.m. a vehicle with out of county tags and wanted it
checked was reported at 5525 Apache Road.

At 7:12 p.m. possible animal neglect was reported at 2801 19th
Street.

At 9:21 p.m. a fireworks complaint was reported at 221 Pine.

At 10:37 p.m. a possible assault was reported at 3413 10th
Street.

At 2:09 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1012 Van
Buren.

At 6:36 a.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 2000
block of Broadway Avenue.

At 10:33 a.m. an accident was reported at 1211 Heizer.

At 10:36 a.m. an unrestrained juvenile in a vehicle was
reported at 10th &amp; Kiowa Road.

At 6 p.m. a possible burglary was reported at 1026
Jefferson.

At 8:13 p.m. a theft was reported at 1810 Lakin.

At 12:14 a.m. loud music was reported at 18th
&amp; Odell.

At 1:40 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 306
Hickory.

At 5:51 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1916 Harrison.

At 11:51 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1900
McKinney Dr.

At 1:04 p.m. officers assisted BTSO on a traffic stop at 16th
&amp; Morton.

At 1:33 p.m. the K-9 was used on a traffic stop at 16th
&amp; Morton.

At 1:43 p.m. a white Chevy truck unable to maintain a lane
was reported at Broadway &amp; Frey.

At 3:59 p.m. the K-9 was used on a stop at 3307 10th
Street.

At 5:24 p.m. a motorcycle passing unsafely was reported at
Broadway &amp; Jefferson.

At 6:02 p.m. a subject driving without a license was
reported at 812 Pine.

At 8:28 p.m. a vehicle on fire was reported at 2535
Broadway.

At 10:20 p.m. assisted BTSO at SW 70 Road &amp; W. US 56
Highway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/23)Cattle OutAt 2:11 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 160 Road
&amp; Susank Road.Traffic ArrestAt 7:51 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 5006 8th
Street.Traumatic InjuriesAt 4:10 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 2801 Main
Street.Traffic ArrestAt 4:32 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 400 block
of E. Barton County Road.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:35 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NE 25 Road
&amp; N. Washington.8/24Cattle OutAt 5:20 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 20 Road
&amp; NE 110 Avenue in Ellinwood.8/25Child in Need of CareAt 10:33 a.m. a child in need of care was reported at W. 2nd
&amp; N. Kennedy Avenue in Ellinwood.Traffic ArrestAt 1:04 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 16th
&amp; Morton.FireAt 8:25 p.m. a fire was reported at 2535 Broadway.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (8/23)Burglary / Not in ProgressAt 1:13 a.m. Lucero Chavez reported a burglary at 915 Stone.Traffic ArrestAt 7:51 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 5006 8th
Street.Back PainAt 9:19 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5700
Rosewood Dr.Sick PersonAt 10:47 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5926
Eisenhower Avenue.Non-Injury AccidentAt 2:21 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Jackson.TheftAt 4:41 p.m. criminal use of a financial card was reported
at 1609 Riviera Dr.Narcotics ViolationAt 6:10 p.m. Nathan Moore was arrested for possession of
methamphetamine and marijuana at 2334 Main.Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:23 p.m. an accident was reported at 1221 10th
Street.Parking ComplaintAt 6:38 p.m. a vehicle with out of county tags and wanted it
checked was reported at 5525 Apache Road.Animal ComplaintAt 7:12 p.m. possible animal neglect was reported at 2801 19th
Street.Fireworks ComplaintAt 9:21 p.m. a fireworks complaint was reported at 221 Pine.AssaultAt 10:37 p.m. a possible assault was reported at 3413 10th
Street.8/24At 2:09 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1012 Van
Buren.Parking ComplaintAt 6:36 a.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 2000
block of Broadway Avenue.Non-Injury AccidentAt 10:33 a.m. an accident was reported at 1211 Heizer.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:36 a.m. an unrestrained juvenile in a vehicle was
reported at 10th &amp; Kiowa Road.Burglary / Not in Progress At 6 p.m. a possible burglary was reported at 1026
Jefferson.TheftAt 8:13 p.m. a theft was reported at 1810 Lakin.8/25Noise ComplaintAt 12:14 a.m. loud music was reported at 18th
&amp; Odell.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 1:40 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at 306
Hickory.Traumatic InjuriesAt 5:51 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1916 Harrison.Medical AlarmAt 11:51 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1900
McKinney Dr.Traffic ArrestAt 1:04 p.m. officers assisted BTSO on a traffic stop at 16th
&amp; Morton.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 1:33 p.m. the K-9 was used on a traffic stop at 16th
&amp; Morton.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 1:43 p.m. a white Chevy truck unable to maintain a lane
was reported at Broadway &amp; Frey.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 3:59 p.m. the K-9 was used on a stop at 3307 10th
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:24 p.m. a motorcycle passing unsafely was reported at
Broadway &amp; Jefferson.At 6:02 p.m. a subject driving without a license was
reported at 812 Pine.FireAt 8:28 p.m. a vehicle on fire was reported at 2535
Broadway.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 10:20 p.m. assisted BTSO at SW 70 Road &amp; W. US 56
Highway.

Cop Shop (8/23 - 8/25)

8/23 BOOKED: Jennifer Villanueva-Munoz on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License and Illegal Tags, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Gerald Martin on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Logan Wells on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.

BOOKED: Emily Oborny on Rush County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Rebecca Muckenthaler on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Eric Torres on Barton County District Court warrant for&nbsp;Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; and on Barton County District Court case for&nbsp;Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Felony Obstruction.

BOOKED: Cory Little on two Barton County District Court warrants for Failure to Register, both bonds set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Blake Suchy on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jami White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Allen Templeton on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended (2nd), Open Container, No Insurance, and No Registration, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Romero Ibanez on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Nathan Moore on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Jessica Rodriguez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: John Cartlich on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, to Pawnee County.

RELEASED: Payten Oxford on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Raymond Chapman on Barton County District Court warrants for Violation of Offender Registration Act, on $100,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Jennifer Villanueva-Munoz on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License and Illegal Tags, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Logan Wells on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to another agency.

RELEASED: Ismael Dominguez III on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Blake Suchy on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $40,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jami White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Allen Templeton on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended (2nd), Open Container, No Insurance, and No Registration, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

8/24 BOOKED: Gilberto Torres-Dominquez on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Transportation of Liquor, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Charles Buck, Jr. on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Alexis Hernandez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage to Property and Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Chester Stubblefield on Barton County District Court case for Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Toni Mitchell on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jeremiah Zamarripa on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S; and on Allen County District Court case for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

RELEASED: Gilberto Torres-Dominquez on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Transportation of Liquor, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Alexis Hernandez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage to Property and Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Chester Stubblefield on Barton County District Court case for Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Toni Mitchell on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

8/25 BOOKED: Ana Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Suspended License, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, Criminal Damage to Property, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, and Criminal Restraint, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Emily Oborny on Rush County District Court case, after time served.

RELEASED: Ana Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Suspended License, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, Criminal Damage to Property, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, and Criminal Restraint, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8/23 BOOKED: Jennifer Villanueva-Munoz on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License and Illegal Tags, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Gerald Martin on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Logan Wells on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Emily Oborny on Rush County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Rebecca Muckenthaler on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Eric Torres on Barton County District Court warrant for&nbsp;Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; and on Barton County District Court case for&nbsp;Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Felony Obstruction.BOOKED: Cory Little on two Barton County District Court warrants for Failure to Register, both bonds set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: Blake Suchy on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jami White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Allen Templeton on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended (2nd), Open Container, No Insurance, and No Registration, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Romero Ibanez on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Nathan Moore on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Jessica Rodriguez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: John Cartlich on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, to Pawnee County.RELEASED: Payten Oxford on three Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, by order of the court.RELEASED: Raymond Chapman on Barton County District Court warrants for Violation of Offender Registration Act, on $100,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Jennifer Villanueva-Munoz on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License and Illegal Tags, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Logan Wells on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to another agency.RELEASED: Ismael Dominguez III on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Blake Suchy on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $40,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jami White on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Allen Templeton on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended (2nd), Open Container, No Insurance, and No Registration, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.8/24 BOOKED: Gilberto Torres-Dominquez on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Transportation of Liquor, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Charles Buck, Jr. on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Alexis Hernandez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage to Property and Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Chester Stubblefield on Barton County District Court case for Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Toni Mitchell on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jeremiah Zamarripa on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S; and on Allen County District Court case for Failure to Appear, no bond set.RELEASED: Gilberto Torres-Dominquez on Barton County District Court case for Illegal Transportation of Liquor, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Alexis Hernandez on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Damage to Property and Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Chester Stubblefield on Barton County District Court case for Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Toni Mitchell on Barton County District Court case for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.8/25 BOOKED: Ana Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Suspended License, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, Criminal Damage to Property, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, and Criminal Restraint, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Emily Oborny on Rush County District Court case, after time served.RELEASED: Ana Dominguez on Barton County District Court case for Suspended License, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Antonio Quiroz, Jr. on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Cocaine, Criminal Damage to Property, Illegal Transportation of Liquor, and Criminal Restraint, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (8/23 - 8/25)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

In March 2021, the Kansas Legislature passed a law that is commonly referred to as the revenue-neutral rate (RNR) law. The legislation not only requires taxing entities to notify taxpayers when they intend to collect more taxes than the year before, creating more transparency in the taxation process, but it also changed how governmental bodies approach their budgets. Barton County, as a taxing entity, has reduced taxes over each of the past four years. Administrator Matt Patzner said RNR has been a better barrier to raising taxes than the so-called tax lid that preceded RNR.

"It really incentivizes us to levy the same amount that we did the year before," he said. "The tax lid really incentivized counties, cities, and anybody that was involved with it, to get the maximum amount that you could that was allowed under the tax lid because that would be your starting point for the next year."

Each budget year is different and taxing entities continue to deal with inflation, and many are paying employees more to retain them. Barton County was still able to cut its 2025 budget by $39,071 from the year before thanks, in part, to the loss of nine county jobs by attrition. Commissioner Donna Zimmerman said it's always a balancing act of trimming expenses and providing quality service to residents.

"We were able to then pay the remaining employees better," she said. "In each instance, we actually went to the employees and asked if they could do the same with fewer employees, then we could spread those wages. It has appeared, at this point, to be a win-win."

Interest revenue has also been vital for Barton County. Patzner said in previous years, the county collected as little as $32,000 in interest. Last year, Treasurer Jim Jordan's accounting practices helped generate more than $1.2 million in interest. Patzner said that was a key factor in the county remaining revenue neutral for another year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630010099167.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn March 2021, the Kansas Legislature passed a law that is commonly referred to as the revenue-neutral rate (RNR) law. The legislation not only requires taxing entities to notify taxpayers when they intend to collect more taxes than the year before, creating more transparency in the taxation process, but it also changed how governmental bodies approach their budgets. Barton County, as a taxing entity, has reduced taxes over each of the past four years. Administrator Matt Patzner said RNR has been a better barrier to raising taxes than the so-called tax lid that preceded RNR."It really incentivizes us to levy the same amount that we did the year before," he said. "The tax lid really incentivized counties, cities, and anybody that was involved with it, to get the maximum amount that you could that was allowed under the tax lid because that would be your starting point for the next year."Each budget year is different and taxing entities continue to deal with inflation, and many are paying employees more to retain them. Barton County was still able to cut its 2025 budget by $39,071 from the year before thanks, in part, to the loss of nine county jobs by attrition. Commissioner Donna Zimmerman said it's always a balancing act of trimming expenses and providing quality service to residents."We were able to then pay the remaining employees better," she said. "In each instance, we actually went to the employees and asked if they could do the same with fewer employees, then we could spread those wages. It has appeared, at this point, to be a win-win."Interest revenue has also been vital for Barton County. Patzner said in previous years, the county collected as little as $32,000 in interest. Last year, Treasurer Jim Jordan's accounting practices helped generate more than $1.2 million in interest. Patzner said that was a key factor in the county remaining revenue neutral for another year.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Barton Co. using revenue-neutral law as incentive to keep taxes down

Hesston junior Ashley Lehman won three state track titles last May in the sprints and a silver medal in the pole vault. Smith Center sophomore Madison Howland won titles in the mile and two-mile and finished second in the 800m run. And Ellinwood's Eleanor Joiner was just an eighth grader last May. Yet that trio joined Valley Center's Laney Hooper for a third-place finish in the 4x800m relay at the 2024 USATF National Junior Olympic Track and Field Championships at Texas A&amp;M University in July. The girls represent the Kansas Flyers Track Team.

"It's a club track team for USATF," Joiner said. "I was at a track meet one day. I got home and there was a postcard on the ottoman. I asked mom and dad and they said this coach wanted to recruit me."

Coach Robert Smith is from Delphos, a small community just northwest of Minneapolis. During the club track season, the Joiners travel the 90 minutes from Ellinwood to Minneapolis to train with some of the state's best.

"The girls go up there and run their intervals and get a longer run in," said Eleanor's father, Derek. "About four other days a week they do an easy mileage day and a harder mileage day. It's a commitment for sure making that drive down I-70."

As a sophomore last year, Hesston's Lehman won Class 3A state titles in the 100, 200, and 400m dashes. She ran top-seven times among all Kansas athletes last spring in those events, posted the fastest 800m time among 3A runners, and helped set a school record in the 4x400m relay. As a freshman last year, Smith Center's Howland won Class 2A titles in the 1600m and 3200m runs, posted the 11th-fastest 3200m time among all girls in Kansas last spring, and also won a cross country title in the fall. She won the 3000m national title at the Junior Olympics.

Yet Joiner was able to hold her own on the team at nationals. Her 70-second lap to open the third leg of the 4x800m relay was the fourth-fastest of the eight laps, which is no small feat with Lehman closing out the final two laps in 2:10. The team finished in 9:30.38 to miss the silver by two seconds.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/4323b41a-ff18-4c16-9d95-db5fae08dfaa">READ MORE: Ellinwood eighth grader experiences 'TrackTown USA'</a>

"She's trying to gain that strength for the second lap," Derek said. "She's still 14 years old. She ran in the 15-16 division because her birthday is in December. If you turn 15 in this year still, you run with the 15 and 16-year-olds."

Eleanor's trip to Texas A&amp;M was hardly her first big meet. In 2023, the Junior Olympic meet was held at Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore. Her 4x800 team placed 16th in the 13-14-year-old division. Joiner has also raced at Arkansas State University and at Staley High School in Kansas City, Mo. 

Joiner had success as a runner in the middle school ranks and will run for the Ellinwood High School cross country team this fall. She will dual-sport as a member of the volleyball team. Her first varsity meet will include Smith Center and Howland. Joiner's goal: keep her in sight.

"I'm very excited," she said. "It's looking like we'll have a good chance to make it to state this year so I'm getting pretty amped."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724340745101.jpeg" alt="The Kansas Flyers 4x8 team, from left: Ashley Lehman (Hesston), Eleanor Joiner (Ellinwood), Laney Hooper (Valley Center), and Madison Howland (Smith Center)." />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Flyers 4x8 team, from left: Ashley Lehman (Hesston), Eleanor Joiner (Ellinwood), Laney Hooper (Valley Center), and Madison Howland (Smith Center).</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostHesston junior Ashley Lehman won three state track titles last May in the sprints and a silver medal in the pole vault. Smith Center sophomore Madison Howland won titles in the mile and two-mile and finished second in the 800m run. And Ellinwood's Eleanor Joiner was just an eighth grader last May. Yet that trio joined Valley Center's Laney Hooper for a third-place finish in the 4x800m relay at the 2024 USATF National Junior Olympic Track and Field Championships at Texas A&amp;M University in July. The girls represent the Kansas Flyers Track Team."It's a club track team for USATF," Joiner said. "I was at a track meet one day. I got home and there was a postcard on the ottoman. I asked mom and dad and they said this coach wanted to recruit me."Coach Robert Smith is from Delphos, a small community just northwest of Minneapolis. During the club track season, the Joiners travel the 90 minutes from Ellinwood to Minneapolis to train with some of the state's best.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724340810490.jpeg" alt="The 4x8 team finished third at the Junior National Olympics at Texas A&amp;M in July." />
 <figcaption>The 4x8 team finished third at the Junior National Olympics at Texas A&amp;M in July.</figcaption>
 </figure>"The girls go up there and run their intervals and get a longer run in," said Eleanor's father, Derek. "About four other days a week they do an easy mileage day and a harder mileage day. It's a commitment for sure making that drive down I-70."As a sophomore last year, Hesston's Lehman won Class 3A state titles in the 100, 200, and 400m dashes. She ran top-seven times among all Kansas athletes last spring in those events, posted the fastest 800m time among 3A runners, and helped set a school record in the 4x400m relay. As a freshman last year, Smith Center's Howland won Class 2A titles in the 1600m and 3200m runs, posted the 11th-fastest 3200m time among all girls in Kansas last spring, and also won a cross country title in the fall. She won the 3000m national title at the Junior Olympics.Yet Joiner was able to hold her own on the team at nationals. Her 70-second lap to open the third leg of the 4x800m relay was the fourth-fastest of the eight laps, which is no small feat with Lehman closing out the final two laps in 2:10. The team finished in 9:30.38 to miss the silver by two seconds.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/4323b41a-ff18-4c16-9d95-db5fae08dfaa">READ MORE: Ellinwood eighth grader experiences 'TrackTown USA'</a>"She's trying to gain that strength for the second lap," Derek said. "She's still 14 years old. She ran in the 15-16 division because her birthday is in December. If you turn 15 in this year still, you run with the 15 and 16-year-olds."Eleanor's trip to Texas A&amp;M was hardly her first big meet. In 2023, the Junior Olympic meet was held at Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore. Her 4x800 team placed 16th in the 13-14-year-old division. Joiner has also raced at Arkansas State University and at Staley High School in Kansas City, Mo. Joiner had success as a runner in the middle school ranks and will run for the Ellinwood High School cross country team this fall. She will dual-sport as a member of the volleyball team. Her first varsity meet will include Smith Center and Howland. Joiner's goal: keep her in sight."I'm very excited," she said. "It's looking like we'll have a good chance to make it to state this year so I'm getting pretty amped."<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Ellinwood's Joiner ready for high school competition after Junior Olympics

Today A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m. Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. Southwest wind 8 to 13 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 71. South wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 93. South-southeast wind around 9 mph.

Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. South wind around 8 mph.

Today A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5 p.m. Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. Southwest wind 8 to 13 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 71. South wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 93. South-southeast wind around 9 mph.Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. South wind around 8 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 95. South wind 7 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72.Thursday A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.FridayMostly sunny, with a high near 83.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 85.Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 81.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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