Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (12/4)

At 7:53 a.m. an accident was reported at SW 60 Avenue &amp;
W. US 56 Highway in Pawnee Rock.

At 8:31 a.m. an accident was reported in the 100 block of NW
150 Road in Hoisington.

At 10:05 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 502 Odell
Street.

At 5:25 p.m. a driving complaint was reported in the 200
block of E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood.

At 5:39 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 500 block
of SE 100 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 8:34 p.m. an accident was reported in the 300 block of SE
100 Avenue in Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (12/4)

At 12:28 a.m. a noise complaint was reported at 3701 24th
Street.

At 12:55 a.m. a noise complaint was reported at 5210 10th
Street.

At 3:57 a.m. Travis Green reported at 2208 27th
Street a noise coming from a house.

At 7:41 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1446 18th
Street.

At 12:22 p.m. a report of checking a male subject in the
area was made at 2604 28th Street.

At 1:28 p.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 5900
block of Rosewood Dr.

At 1:52 p.m. a truck parked in a handicap stall with an
expired placard was reported at 4107 10th Street. Placard was not
expired.

At 2:34 p.m. a dog in the area possibly killing cats was
reported at 807 Pine.

At 3:12 p.m. theft of her car keys was reported at 1811 Main
Street. Keys were located. No theft.

At 4:18 p.m. the lock cut on a gate was reported at 5320 10th
Street.

At 6:18 p.m. a vehicle illegally parked was reported in the 1200
block of Williams Street.

At 9:11 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2006 McKinley.

At 9:21 p.m. K-9 deployment was reported at 31st
Street &amp; Washington.

At 10:27 p.m. an officer reported a narcotics violation in
the 3900 block of 8th Street. Crystal Leech arrested.

At 10:29 p.m. K-9 deployment was reported in the 3900 block
of 8th Street.

At 11:03 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 2913 Morton.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (12/4)Injury AccidentAt 7:53 a.m. an accident was reported at SW 60 Avenue &amp;
W. US 56 Highway in Pawnee Rock.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:31 a.m. an accident was reported in the 100 block of NW
150 Road in Hoisington.Animal ComplaintAt 10:05 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 502 Odell
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:25 p.m. a driving complaint was reported in the 200
block of E. US 56 Highway in Ellinwood.Traffic ArrestAt 5:39 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported in the 500 block
of SE 100 Avenue in Ellinwood.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:34 p.m. an accident was reported in the 300 block of SE
100 Avenue in Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (12/4)At 12:28 a.m. a noise complaint was reported at 3701 24th
Street.At 12:55 a.m. a noise complaint was reported at 5210 10th
Street.At 3:57 a.m. Travis Green reported at 2208 27th
Street a noise coming from a house.Medical AlarmAt 7:41 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1446 18th
Street.ProwlerAt 12:22 p.m. a report of checking a male subject in the
area was made at 2604 28th Street.Parking ComplaintAt 1:28 p.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 5900
block of Rosewood Dr.At 1:52 p.m. a truck parked in a handicap stall with an
expired placard was reported at 4107 10th Street. Placard was not
expired.Animal ComplaintAt 2:34 p.m. a dog in the area possibly killing cats was
reported at 807 Pine.TheftAt 3:12 p.m. theft of her car keys was reported at 1811 Main
Street. Keys were located. No theft.Criminal DamageAt 4:18 p.m. the lock cut on a gate was reported at 5320 10th
Street.Parking ComplaintAt 6:18 p.m. a vehicle illegally parked was reported in the 1200
block of Williams Street.Overdose / PoisoningAt 9:11 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2006 McKinley.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 9:21 p.m. K-9 deployment was reported at 31st
Street &amp; Washington.Narcotics ViolationAt 10:27 p.m. an officer reported a narcotics violation in
the 3900 block of 8th Street. Crystal Leech arrested.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 10:29 p.m. K-9 deployment was reported in the 3900 block
of 8th Street.Structure FireAt 11:03 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 2913 Morton.

Cop Shop (12/4)

12/4 BOOKED: Christina Champ on Barton County District Court warrant for Forgery, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Nicholas Harkness on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jeffery Renfro on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Burglary, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Theft, and Criminal Deprivation of Property, bond set at $40,000 C/S; and Pawnee County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, bond set at $7,500 C/S; and on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Intimidation of a Witness, bond set $1,250 C/S.

BOOKED: Layton Brown on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended (2nd or subsequent), bond set at $2,500 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Crystal Leech on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Improper Turn, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Christina Champ on Barton County District Court warrant for Forgery, after posting $10,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Brandon Cooks on Barton County District Court warrant, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Layton Brown on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended (2nd or subsequent), after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Sean Shepard on Barton County District Court for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606242247715.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>12/4 BOOKED: Christina Champ on Barton County District Court warrant for Forgery, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Nicholas Harkness on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jeffery Renfro on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Burglary, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Theft, and Criminal Deprivation of Property, bond set at $40,000 C/S; and Pawnee County District Court warrant for Interference with LEO, bond set at $7,500 C/S; and on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Intimidation of a Witness, bond set $1,250 C/S.BOOKED: Layton Brown on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended (2nd or subsequent), bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Sean Shepard on Barton County District Court for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Crystal Leech on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Improper Turn, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Christina Champ on Barton County District Court warrant for Forgery, after posting $10,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Brandon Cooks on Barton County District Court warrant, by order of the court.RELEASED: Layton Brown on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended (2nd or subsequent), after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Sean Shepard on Barton County District Court for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (12/4)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Birds continue to flock to Cheyenne Bottoms despite dry conditions over the past two years. Earlier this month, officials estimated 200,000 geese were using the Bottoms. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said the number of birds is a little surprising given the mostly dry conditions.

"The water we have at Cheyenne Bottoms is not real numerous, but it's plenty of water," he said. "It's shallow. Geese like to sit on shallow water. They're using Cheyenne Bottoms mostly to roost and to rest during the afternoons while they go out and feed in the mornings and evenings."

Wolf said the geese migration often comes in waves, with one species moving in and out as the next species moves in. This year, a variety of species remain mixed, including white-fronted, Ross's, Canada, and cackling geese.

"They'll be out there on Pool 1A that has water," Wolf said. "It's maybe a bald eagle that comes through or something like that and spooks them up. You get these incredible masses of birds in the air at one time. It's pretty phenomenal to see."

The various species typically head south during the winter migration. With temperatures expected to remain mild for at least the next 10 days, they may continue to call the Bottoms home for a while. 

"Until we get really cold and start freezing up a little bit more, they're going to stick around, I'm sure," Wolf said. "I think there's plenty of food for them in the fields around. They're finding what they need here so no use in going anywhere else."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701713054926.jpeg" alt="Snow geese make a landing at Cheyenne Bottoms earlier this month." />
 <figcaption>Snow geese make a landing at Cheyenne Bottoms earlier this month.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostBirds continue to flock to Cheyenne Bottoms despite dry conditions over the past two years. Earlier this month, officials estimated 200,000 geese were using the Bottoms. Kansas Wetlands Education Center Director Curtis Wolf said the number of birds is a little surprising given the mostly dry conditions."The water we have at Cheyenne Bottoms is not real numerous, but it's plenty of water," he said. "It's shallow. Geese like to sit on shallow water. They're using Cheyenne Bottoms mostly to roost and to rest during the afternoons while they go out and feed in the mornings and evenings."Wolf said the geese migration often comes in waves, with one species moving in and out as the next species moves in. This year, a variety of species remain mixed, including white-fronted, Ross's, Canada, and cackling geese."They'll be out there on Pool 1A that has water," Wolf said. "It's maybe a bald eagle that comes through or something like that and spooks them up. You get these incredible masses of birds in the air at one time. It's pretty phenomenal to see."The various species typically head south during the winter migration. With temperatures expected to remain mild for at least the next 10 days, they may continue to call the Bottoms home for a while. "Until we get really cold and start freezing up a little bit more, they're going to stick around, I'm sure," Wolf said. "I think there's plenty of food for them in the fields around. They're finding what they need here so no use in going anywhere else."

Geese not shying away from dry conditions at Cheyenne Bottoms

Today Sunny, with a high near 53. West-northwest wind 7 to 11 mph becoming northeast in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 30. East wind 7 to 10 mph becoming south after midnight.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 64. South-southwest wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 42. South wind 15 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 68. West-southwest wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.

Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 55.

Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Blustery.

Saturday A slight chance of rain and snow before noon, then a slight chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 44. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 49.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 50.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 53. West-northwest wind 7 to 11 mph becoming northeast in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 30. East wind 7 to 10 mph becoming south after midnight.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 64. South-southwest wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 42. South wind 15 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 68. West-southwest wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 55.Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Blustery.Saturday A slight chance of rain and snow before noon, then a slight chance of snow. Partly sunny, with a high near 44. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 49.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 27.Monday Sunny, with a high near 50.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Great Bend City Council granted permission to use Veterans Lake and
Stone Lake as sites for kayak rental kiosks. Through a partnership with the
Great Bend Recreation Commission, the company Rent.fun will install a locker
with four kayaks at each of the lakes. 

Great Bend Convention and Visitors
Bureau Director Christina Hayes said citizens will be able to check out a
kayak, oars and a lifejacket using an online app.


"It's kind of like the scooter program, where you get on the app, the door will open for the cage," said Hayes. "You'll be able to pull out the kayak, oars and lifejackets. You'll be able to use it. If you don't have it back in a certain time, your credit card will get charged."

Originally considering a combination of kayaks and paddleboards, officials went
with strictly kayaks to avoid the potential of falling off and swimming in the
lakes. 

Great Bend Rec Director Chris Umphres noted a five-year, $26,000 contract
with Rent.fun will install the lockers at each lake.


"When we set the fees, we want it to be low enough that people want to do it," said Umphres. There's a 50/50 reimbursement from the fees. The company gets 50% and we get 50% of the fees. That money will go back to the city for the Vets Park improvement fund."

The Great Bend CVB received a $12,200 grant to help pay $10,000 for the project and
to assist in advertising and marketing the new amenity. GBRC will pay $16,000. Rent.fun will search for a local
citizen to manage the kayaks in Great Bend. 

Now with the city’s permission,
Umphres will take the project proposal to the Great Bend Rec Board for final
approval next week.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666273421560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend City Council granted permission to use Veterans Lake and
Stone Lake as sites for kayak rental kiosks. Through a partnership with the
Great Bend Recreation Commission, the company Rent.fun will install a locker
with four kayaks at each of the lakes. Great Bend Convention and Visitors
Bureau Director Christina Hayes said citizens will be able to check out a
kayak, oars and a lifejacket using an online app.
"It's kind of like the scooter program, where you get on the app, the door will open for the cage," said Hayes. "You'll be able to pull out the kayak, oars and lifejackets. You'll be able to use it. If you don't have it back in a certain time, your credit card will get charged."Originally considering a combination of kayaks and paddleboards, officials went
with strictly kayaks to avoid the potential of falling off and swimming in the
lakes. Great Bend Rec Director Chris Umphres noted a five-year, $26,000 contract
with Rent.fun will install the lockers at each lake.
"When we set the fees, we want it to be low enough that people want to do it," said Umphres. There's a 50/50 reimbursement from the fees. The company gets 50% and we get 50% of the fees. That money will go back to the city for the Vets Park improvement fund."The Great Bend CVB received a $12,200 grant to help pay $10,000 for the project and
to assist in advertising and marketing the new amenity. GBRC will pay $16,000. Rent.fun will search for a local
citizen to manage the kayaks in Great Bend. Now with the city’s permission,
Umphres will take the project proposal to the Great Bend Rec Board for final
approval next week.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kayak rentals coming to both Stone Lake and Vets Lake in Great Bend

As the population of drivers aged 65 and older continues to grow, maintaining safe mobility is important. Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, Dec. 4-8, encourages seniors and their families to assess age-related changes and how best to remain safe on the road or choose other kinds of transportation.

Older drivers are considered more susceptible to serious injury and death in a crash. In Kansas, 72 drivers aged 65-99 were involved in a fatal crash in 2022. Another 3,694 were involved in a serious injury or injury crash. According to the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), more older drivers are in fatal crashes on rural roads versus urban roads.

“If you have an older driver in your family, consider having a positive and engaging conversation about driving,” said Chris Bortz, Transportation Safety Assistant Bureau Chief for the Kansas Department of Transportation. “These conversations should focus on their current driving behaviors and the resources that are available if they need to stop driving.”

KDOT and NHTSA recommend older drivers and their families work together to:

For more information and resources on senior driving and transportation, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm5odHNhLmdvdi9yb2FkLXNhZmV0eS9vbGRlci1kcml2ZXJzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEyMDQuODY1NjI2NDEifQ.T9RFCZguD0u8sgqOTu29lOEPldp0UihnrfidlH03YgQ/s/1410648818/br/232157589995-l" target="_blank">www.nhsta.gov/road-safety/older-drivers</a>.

As the population of drivers aged 65 and older continues to grow, maintaining safe mobility is important. Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, Dec. 4-8, encourages seniors and their families to assess age-related changes and how best to remain safe on the road or choose other kinds of transportation.Older drivers are considered more susceptible to serious injury and death in a crash. In Kansas, 72 drivers aged 65-99 were involved in a fatal crash in 2022. Another 3,694 were involved in a serious injury or injury crash. According to the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), more older drivers are in fatal crashes on rural roads versus urban roads.“If you have an older driver in your family, consider having a positive and engaging conversation about driving,” said Chris Bortz, Transportation Safety Assistant Bureau Chief for the Kansas Department of Transportation. “These conversations should focus on their current driving behaviors and the resources that are available if they need to stop driving.”KDOT and NHTSA recommend older drivers and their families work together to:<ul>
 <li>Promote awareness of the impact aging has on driving.</li><li>Understand how medical conditions and prescribed medications can impact physical fitness, reflexes and vision when driving.</li><li>Discuss knowledge on new road designs such as round-abouts, diverging diamonds or other traffic flow changes along route.</li><li>Plan trips during the day and when traffic is light.</li><li>Work with older drivers to understand new vehicle technology such as lane departure, back up cameras and blind-spot detection.</li><li>Make sure they correctly use headlights at night, and buckle up every trip, every time.</li><li>Assist older drivers who may no longer be able to drive and help them plan for safe mobility by family, friends or public transport.</li>
 </ul>For more information and resources on senior driving and transportation, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm5odHNhLmdvdi9yb2FkLXNhZmV0eS9vbGRlci1kcml2ZXJzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzEyMDQuODY1NjI2NDEifQ.T9RFCZguD0u8sgqOTu29lOEPldp0UihnrfidlH03YgQ/s/1410648818/br/232157589995-l" target="_blank">www.nhsta.gov/road-safety/older-drivers</a>.

Open discussion & planning core to Older Drivers Safety Awareness Week

Many reactions occur within the body during an attempt to deal with stressors. A few short-term effects include increased adrenaline, cortisol production (the stress hormone), or muscle tightness. Chronic stress affects our physical, emotional, and social well-being, and symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, changes to eating habits, or burnout can occur.

As you can see, there is a broad spectrum of stress depending on severity. Acute stress lasts no longer than one month and typically occurs right after a stressful event such as an interview or performance.

Chronic stress can also develop after a stressful event, but this type is ongoing and persistent. It can be caused by losing a loved one or struggling with poverty to name a couple of examples.

Living in a state of stress for an extended amount of time is not healthy in any aspect of well-being, but if we aren’t careful, life can become overwhelming and stress can be difficult to manage. Stress is proven to have severe effects on mental health and the development of chronic illnesses. In fact, it is estimated that 90 percent of illness and disease is stress-related according to medical research. When chronic stress is present, it can interfere with your physical functioning and bodily processes. This is linked to high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and heart disease.

Are you ready to work on your stress management skills for your mental health and physical well-being?

The Great Bend Activity Center is hosting an upcoming class on Managing the Strain of Stress, and you’ll have the chance to:

· Learn the different types of stress and how it can affect the body.

· Learn the physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of stress.

· Be able to identify how stress personally affects you (your personal signs/symptoms).

If you want to add to your stress management toolbox, join me at the Great Bend Activity Center on December 13th at noon.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Many reactions occur within the body during an attempt to deal with stressors. A few short-term effects include increased adrenaline, cortisol production (the stress hormone), or muscle tightness. Chronic stress affects our physical, emotional, and social well-being, and symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, changes to eating habits, or burnout can occur.As you can see, there is a broad spectrum of stress depending on severity. Acute stress lasts no longer than one month and typically occurs right after a stressful event such as an interview or performance.Chronic stress can also develop after a stressful event, but this type is ongoing and persistent. It can be caused by losing a loved one or struggling with poverty to name a couple of examples.Living in a state of stress for an extended amount of time is not healthy in any aspect of well-being, but if we aren’t careful, life can become overwhelming and stress can be difficult to manage. Stress is proven to have severe effects on mental health and the development of chronic illnesses. In fact, it is estimated that 90 percent of illness and disease is stress-related according to medical research. When chronic stress is present, it can interfere with your physical functioning and bodily processes. This is linked to high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and heart disease.Are you ready to work on your stress management skills for your mental health and physical well-being?The Great Bend Activity Center is hosting an upcoming class on Managing the Strain of Stress, and you’ll have the chance to:· Learn the different types of stress and how it can affect the body.· Learn the physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of stress.· Be able to identify how stress personally affects you (your personal signs/symptoms).· Learn different tools and techniques.If you want to add to your stress management toolbox, join me at the Great Bend Activity Center on December 13th at noon.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Managing the strain of stress

Cold weather has arrived and that's a good time to clean out the closet. Not everyone can afford warm clothing, and Andrea Bauer, public information director for the Great Bend School district, said that's why USD 428 is teaming up with the Family Crisis Center.

"Anytime we can create connections between our schools and the community, it's a win," she said. "We've got the Great Bend Middle School partnering with the Family Crisis Center on a Winter Clothing Drive this December. They can drop off items at the middle school to help students, help out the community, and make sure we're meeting the needs of Great Bend this winter."

From now until Dec. 20, new or gently used coats, winter hats, and gloves of all sizes, from adult to infant, may be dropped off at the Great Bend Middle School. District Family Engagement Coordinator Tayler Stegman said the collaborative effort will not only benefit those in need, but also support the Family Crisis Center's free clothing storefront. Donations of any size can make a difference. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701444284258.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostCold weather has arrived and that's a good time to clean out the closet. Not everyone can afford warm clothing, and Andrea Bauer, public information director for the Great Bend School district, said that's why USD 428 is teaming up with the Family Crisis Center."Anytime we can create connections between our schools and the community, it's a win," she said. "We've got the Great Bend Middle School partnering with the Family Crisis Center on a Winter Clothing Drive this December. They can drop off items at the middle school to help students, help out the community, and make sure we're meeting the needs of Great Bend this winter."From now until Dec. 20, new or gently used coats, winter hats, and gloves of all sizes, from adult to infant, may be dropped off at the Great Bend Middle School. District Family Engagement Coordinator Tayler Stegman said the collaborative effort will not only benefit those in need, but also support the Family Crisis Center's free clothing storefront. Donations of any size can make a difference. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701444300282.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

GBMS, Family Crisis Center teaming up for Winter Clothing Drive

News from the Oil Patch, Dec. 4 John P. Tretbar

Crude prices continue their losing streak. The near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude dropped below $74 for the first time in two weeks. London Brent fell below $79 by lunchtime Monday.

Kansas Common closed out the month of November at $66.25 per barrel at CHS in McPherson. The average price for the month is a fraction below $67.60 per barrel ($67.592) , a five month low. That's down nearly eight dollars from October, and about seven dollars less than the average in November of last year. Prices in McPherson dropped another two dollars on Friday to start the week at $64.25 per barrel.

Regulators report 100 new intent-to-drill notices across the state last month. That's 1,288 so far this year, down more than 300 from a year ago. A search of the Kansas Corporation Commission Web site returns five new intents in Barton County, six in Ellis County, and three in Russell County.

The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes on Friday was up five oil rigs and down one gas rig for a total of 625 active drilling rigs nationwide. The count in Texas was up three rigs over the week before.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down three in eastern Kansas to 16 active rigs. The tally west of Wichita dropped by one rig to 23. The weekly total is down more than nine percent from last week.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 38 newly-completed wells since last week. There were four in Ellis County, out of 29 in Western Kansas. That's 1,589 so far this year, or about 124 more completions than at this point last year.

Kansas regulators okayed 16 new drilling locations across the state, with nine in Western Kansas including one in Russell County.

U.S. Crude production reached another all-time high last week, marking the fifth weekly tally this year to break the record. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic operators pumped of 13,239,000 barrels of crude oil per day, an increase of 25,000 barrels per day from a week earlier, and more than a million barrels a day greater than the same week a year ago.

EIA reported a 1.6 million barrel increase in U.S. crude inventories. The total rose to 449.7 million barrels as of November 24, which is slightly higher than the five-year average for this time of year.

The government says imports averaged 5.8 million barrels per day, down nearly 700-thousand barrels per day. Average imports over the last four weeks are less than one percent higher than during the same four weeks last year.

More output cuts are on the way from the OPEC-Plus oil exporters. Saudi Arabia will reportedly continue its voluntary million-barrel reductions and the group's other members are promising to chip in with more voluntary cuts totaling another million barrels per day.

Some of the biggest players in the Permian Basin, including Occidental Petroleum, Concho Resources, and Diamondback Energy, have come out against a proposed nuclear waste facility in southeast New Mexico. The companies signed on to a letter from the Permian Basin Coalition to oppose the temporary storage facility proposed by Holtec International. The letter U.S. Senior Senator Martin Heinrich argues against moving the nation's nuclear waste to the proposed temporary facility before a permanent facility is approved.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Dec. 4 John P. TretbarCrude prices continue their losing streak. The near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude dropped below $74 for the first time in two weeks. London Brent fell below $79 by lunchtime Monday.Kansas Common closed out the month of November at $66.25 per barrel at CHS in McPherson. The average price for the month is a fraction below $67.60 per barrel ($67.592) , a five month low. That's down nearly eight dollars from October, and about seven dollars less than the average in November of last year. Prices in McPherson dropped another two dollars on Friday to start the week at $64.25 per barrel.Regulators report 100 new intent-to-drill notices across the state last month. That's 1,288 so far this year, down more than 300 from a year ago. A search of the Kansas Corporation Commission Web site returns five new intents in Barton County, six in Ellis County, and three in Russell County.The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes on Friday was up five oil rigs and down one gas rig for a total of 625 active drilling rigs nationwide. The count in Texas was up three rigs over the week before.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is down three in eastern Kansas to 16 active rigs. The tally west of Wichita dropped by one rig to 23. The weekly total is down more than nine percent from last week.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 38 newly-completed wells since last week. There were four in Ellis County, out of 29 in Western Kansas. That's 1,589 so far this year, or about 124 more completions than at this point last year.Kansas regulators okayed 16 new drilling locations across the state, with nine in Western Kansas including one in Russell County.U.S. Crude production reached another all-time high last week, marking the fifth weekly tally this year to break the record. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic operators pumped of 13,239,000 barrels of crude oil per day, an increase of 25,000 barrels per day from a week earlier, and more than a million barrels a day greater than the same week a year ago.EIA reported a 1.6 million barrel increase in U.S. crude inventories. The total rose to 449.7 million barrels as of November 24, which is slightly higher than the five-year average for this time of year.The government says imports averaged 5.8 million barrels per day, down nearly 700-thousand barrels per day. Average imports over the last four weeks are less than one percent higher than during the same four weeks last year.More output cuts are on the way from the OPEC-Plus oil exporters. Saudi Arabia will reportedly continue its voluntary million-barrel reductions and the group's other members are promising to chip in with more voluntary cuts totaling another million barrels per day.Some of the biggest players in the Permian Basin, including Occidental Petroleum, Concho Resources, and Diamondback Energy, have come out against a proposed nuclear waste facility in southeast New Mexico. The companies signed on to a letter from the Permian Basin Coalition to oppose the temporary storage facility proposed by Holtec International. The letter U.S. Senior Senator Martin Heinrich argues against moving the nation's nuclear waste to the proposed temporary facility before a permanent facility is approved.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: U.S. weekly output breaks record

The Great Bend Public Works Department would like residents to know that there could be low pressure to service interruption around the area of the 5200 block of Eisenhower. Staff was in the process of doing a minor repair and an issue arose that needed a shutdown to the water gates. 

Staff is working quickly to repair the issue.

From the City of Great Bend...The Great Bend Public Works Department would like residents to know that there could be low pressure to service interruption around the area of the 5200 block of Eisenhower. Staff was in the process of doing a minor repair and an issue arose that needed a shutdown to the water gates. Staff is working quickly to repair the issue.

Low water pressure possible along Eisenhower in Great Bend

Following the removal of Amy Boxberger as the director of Central Kansas
Community Corrections, the Barton County Commission heard an idea to
consolidate the district’s juvenile services and adult program. Marissa
Woodmansee presented to the commission Monday morning, stating the
consolidation makes sense and now might be a good time to consider the idea for
a reset on the departments.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/dd5f0cf2-44d3-42c0-b2d3-184dcabbedab">RELATED STORY: Boxberger out as Central KS Community Corrections director</a>

Woodmansee, whom serves as the Juvenile Services
director for the 20th Judicial District, was named interim director
of Central Kansas Community Corrections in November with the absence of
Boxberger.


"As far as things being different, operationally...I can't imagine there would be a lot of differences. We all still have the same mission, community public safety. Whether it's the juvenile field or adult field, that's the ask. The biggest advantage to the adult is freeing up money. If you utilize me as the director over both, then that means my salary would be split from the juvenile and adult."

Out of the 31 judicial districts in Kansas, there are only four that separate
their juvenile services and adult corrections programs. The 20th Judicial Direct consists of Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford counties.

While the county
currently is advertising the job opening for director of Community of
Corrections, Woodmansee said she would be willing to oversee both departments.
Saving money by reducing a director position, Woodmansee said the funding could
be used to assist in the hiring of more probation officers.


"I won't sugar coat it," said Woodmansee. "As far as the adult component, they need probation officers. I ran the report. There are 501 active cases for this district for the adult program. Continuing to be underfunded by the state does not help."

While both juvenile services and CKCC are state funded, they are governed by
the Barton County Commission. Commissioners said they would consider the
consolidation proposal from Woodmansee.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701712693632.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFollowing the removal of Amy Boxberger as the director of Central Kansas
Community Corrections, the Barton County Commission heard an idea to
consolidate the district’s juvenile services and adult program. Marissa
Woodmansee presented to the commission Monday morning, stating the
consolidation makes sense and now might be a good time to consider the idea for
a reset on the departments.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/dd5f0cf2-44d3-42c0-b2d3-184dcabbedab">RELATED STORY: Boxberger out as Central KS Community Corrections director</a>Woodmansee, whom serves as the Juvenile Services
director for the 20th Judicial District, was named interim director
of Central Kansas Community Corrections in November with the absence of
Boxberger.
"As far as things being different, operationally...I can't imagine there would be a lot of differences. We all still have the same mission, community public safety. Whether it's the juvenile field or adult field, that's the ask. The biggest advantage to the adult is freeing up money. If you utilize me as the director over both, then that means my salary would be split from the juvenile and adult."Out of the 31 judicial districts in Kansas, there are only four that separate
their juvenile services and adult corrections programs. The 20th Judicial Direct consists of Barton, Ellsworth, Rice, Russell and Stafford counties.While the county
currently is advertising the job opening for director of Community of
Corrections, Woodmansee said she would be willing to oversee both departments.
Saving money by reducing a director position, Woodmansee said the funding could
be used to assist in the hiring of more probation officers.
"I won't sugar coat it," said Woodmansee. "As far as the adult component, they need probation officers. I ran the report. There are 501 active cases for this district for the adult program. Continuing to be underfunded by the state does not help."While both juvenile services and CKCC are state funded, they are governed by
the Barton County Commission. Commissioners said they would consider the
consolidation proposal from Woodmansee.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Proposal to consolidate Juvenile Services & CKCC in Barton’s district

I'm Christen, the owner of JustSayItThough!

I live in the heart of Kansas with my dog Tawni and my cat Phatalenni (just try and pronounce that! lol). I love Jesus, 90's video games, HotTopic, and collecting coffee mugs.

Have you ever wanted to tell someone how much they mean to you, but couldn't quite come up with the right words? I hope you find something here that says or conveys just the right words you're trying to express.

I love making things beautiful, making people smile, and crafting... and in creating this little store, I've found a way to combine them all!

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/or2JM4vk-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Just Say It Though - Spec" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>I'm Christen, the owner of JustSayItThough!I live in the heart of Kansas with my dog Tawni and my cat Phatalenni (just try and pronounce that! lol). I love Jesus, 90's video games, HotTopic, and collecting coffee mugs.Have you ever wanted to tell someone how much they mean to you, but couldn't quite come up with the right words? I hope you find something here that says or conveys just the right words you're trying to express.I love making things beautiful, making people smile, and crafting... and in creating this little store, I've found a way to combine them all!

🎥Just Say It Though - A unique gift shop in Great Bend (Sponsored)

The demand for nurses has been consistent over the years. In a presentation
to the Barton Community College Board of Trustees last week, Barton Director of
Nursing Education Renae Skelton stated the workforce need for Registered Nurses
(RN) is expected to grow six percent from now until 2032. 

Offering practical
and associate degree programs for nursing, Barton had a pass rate of 83% for
their students enrolled in their associate nursing program in 2021. Skelton
said some fine-tuning of their student selection process was warranted.


"We took a long, hard look at all aspects of the nursing student," said Skelton. "Who were we letting in? What were their GPAs? We developed a formula where each candidate gets a score. We look at their GPA

In 2023, the college had a pass rate of 96% from students following the
associate path. Barton orchestrates associate degree in nursing programs both
on their campus in Great Bend and at Pratt Community College. Clinicals for the
students are conducted at a variety of locations. Skelton said many nursing
students are those looking for a career change

"Some students who take a lot of their prerequisites in high school, are ready to come in right out of high school," said Skelton. "I would say that's not the majority. The majority are people coming back. They've been out of school for a couple of years. They didn't know what they really wanted to do. Also we get those non-traditional students that are coming back at age 25 or 30 for their career."

In Skelton’s presentation, she mentioned the median pay for an RN is $81,220 per year.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701450424649.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe demand for nurses has been consistent over the years. In a presentation
to the Barton Community College Board of Trustees last week, Barton Director of
Nursing Education Renae Skelton stated the workforce need for Registered Nurses
(RN) is expected to grow six percent from now until 2032. Offering practical
and associate degree programs for nursing, Barton had a pass rate of 83% for
their students enrolled in their associate nursing program in 2021. Skelton
said some fine-tuning of their student selection process was warranted.
"We took a long, hard look at all aspects of the nursing student," said Skelton. "Who were we letting in? What were their GPAs? We developed a formula where each candidate gets a score. We look at their GPAIn 2023, the college had a pass rate of 96% from students following the
associate path. Barton orchestrates associate degree in nursing programs both
on their campus in Great Bend and at Pratt Community College. Clinicals for the
students are conducted at a variety of locations. Skelton said many nursing
students are those looking for a career change"Some students who take a lot of their prerequisites in high school, are ready to come in right out of high school," said Skelton. "I would say that's not the majority. The majority are people coming back. They've been out of school for a couple of years. They didn't know what they really wanted to do. Also we get those non-traditional students that are coming back at age 25 or 30 for their career."In Skelton’s presentation, she mentioned the median pay for an RN is $81,220 per year.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton increasing nursing pass rate as workforce demand continues

Holy Family School invites the public to attend its Kindergarten through 4th grade Christmas Program on Tuesday, Dec. 5.&nbsp; The program will be sure to put you in the Christmas spirit with their talented performances! The program will begin at 7 p.m. at the Parish Center, 4100 Broadway Ave. in Great Bend.&nbsp; The performance is under the direction of the HFS Music teacher, Mrs. Ashlee Meyerhoff.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700594599479.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Holy Family School invites the public to attend its Kindergarten through 4th grade Christmas Program on Tuesday, Dec. 5.&nbsp; The program will be sure to put you in the Christmas spirit with their talented performances! The program will begin at 7 p.m. at the Parish Center, 4100 Broadway Ave. in Great Bend.&nbsp; The performance is under the direction of the HFS Music teacher, Mrs. Ashlee Meyerhoff.

Holy Family Christmas Program is Dec. 5

12/1 BOOKED: Loralei Weller on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $500 or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Kenneth Reed on two Barton County District Court warrants for Unlawful Distribution of Methamphetamine and No Drug Tax Stamp, total bond set at $200,000 C/S; and two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $140,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Kyra Zimmer on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $750 cash only.

BOOKED: Janie Strange on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery DV, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Steven Reed on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $4,000 C/S; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $1,602.50 cash only.

RELEASED: Loralei Weller on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Craig Brendon on Barton County District Court case for Traffic Contraband into Facility, Possession of Opiate, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Vehicle Liability Insurance, and Improper Turn, after posting $500 cash bond.

RELEASED: Albert Blankenship on hold for Kern County (Calif.), to Kern County.

RELEASED: Kyra Zimmer on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $750 cash bond.

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

12/2 BOOKED: Miguel Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Nastasia Robinson on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No insurance, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Israel Klein on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $947.50 cash only.

BOOKED: Shania Turner on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Miguel Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with LEO, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, after posting a $552.50 cash bond.

BOOKED: Steven Reed on Great Bend Municipal Court for Contempt of Court, after posting a $1,602.50 cash bond; and on Great Bend warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $4,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Nastasia Robinson on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No insurance, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Michael Warren on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat and Assault, after time served.

12/3 BOOKED: Joseph Trimmer on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Failure to Report, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Ethan Damm on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Nathan Hillegeist on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Battery on LEO and Assault on LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Christopher Landrum on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Theft, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jason Petz on Stafford County District Court case for Battery on LEOx3, Interference with LEO, DUI - 2nd, Driving Left of Center, Fail to Maintain Lane, Fail to wear safety belt, Transporting an Open Container, and Circumvention of Interlock Device, bond set at $30,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Joseph Trimmer on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Failure to Report, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

&nbsp; RELEASED: Shania Turner on&nbsp;Hoisington&nbsp;Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.&nbsp;

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

RELEASED: Nathan Hillegeist on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Battery on LEO and Assault on LEO, on 18-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Shelby Stone on Barton County District Court violation for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Christopher Landrum on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Theft, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575647263164.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>12/1 BOOKED: Loralei Weller on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, bond set at $500 or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Kenneth Reed on two Barton County District Court warrants for Unlawful Distribution of Methamphetamine and No Drug Tax Stamp, total bond set at $200,000 C/S; and two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $140,000 C/S.BOOKED: Kyra Zimmer on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $750 cash only.BOOKED: Janie Strange on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery DV, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Steven Reed on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $4,000 C/S; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $1,602.50 cash only.RELEASED: Loralei Weller on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Craig Brendon on Barton County District Court case for Traffic Contraband into Facility, Possession of Opiate, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Vehicle Liability Insurance, and Improper Turn, after posting $500 cash bond.RELEASED: Albert Blankenship on hold for Kern County (Calif.), to Kern County.RELEASED: Kyra Zimmer on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $750 cash bond.RELEASED: Janie Strange on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Battery DV, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.12/2 BOOKED: Miguel Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with LEO, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Nastasia Robinson on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No insurance, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Israel Klein on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $947.50 cash only.BOOKED: Shania Turner on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Miguel Gonzalez on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Interference with LEO, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds; and on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, after posting a $552.50 cash bond.BOOKED: Steven Reed on Great Bend Municipal Court for Contempt of Court, after posting a $1,602.50 cash bond; and on Great Bend warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $4,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Nastasia Robinson on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No insurance, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Michael Warren on Barton County District Court warrant for Criminal Threat and Assault, after time served.12/3 BOOKED: Joseph Trimmer on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Failure to Report, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Ethan Damm on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Nathan Hillegeist on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Battery on LEO and Assault on LEO, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Christopher Landrum on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Theft, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jason Petz on Stafford County District Court case for Battery on LEOx3, Interference with LEO, DUI - 2nd, Driving Left of Center, Fail to Maintain Lane, Fail to wear safety belt, Transporting an Open Container, and Circumvention of Interlock Device, bond set at $30,000 C/S.RELEASED: Joseph Trimmer on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and Failure to Report, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.&nbsp; RELEASED: Shania Turner on&nbsp;Hoisington&nbsp;Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.&nbsp;RELEASED: Ethan Damm on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Nathan Hillegeist on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Battery on LEO and Assault on LEO, on 18-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Shelby Stone on Barton County District Court violation for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Christopher Landrum on Barton County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Theft, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (12/1 - 12/3)

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 </figure>Download the official Great Bend Post mobile app today!Great Bend Post is your destination for local news, sports, obituaries, opinion, announcements, and more in Great Bend, KS.Great Bend Post is your trusted news source for local &amp; regional news in the Great Bend area. Stay up to date with everything happening around you, delivered right to your phone.- Browse local, regional, sports, obituaries, announcements, &amp; more - Customize your experience in light mode or dark mode - Search thousands of posts - Listen to any of our radio stations online for free - Easily share important news to friends &amp; family<figure>
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Joe Hickel's Claflin ties are loose, but they're there. The 69-year-old Alaskan is the son of Claflin native and former Alaskan Governor Wally Hickel. But Joe made a name for himself as a pastry chef at Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage. Joe made news last week when he announced he was retiring after 45 years of making his famous gingerbread village at the hotel. It all started when he was in his early 20s.

"I was working construction for about five years, then I went out to Anchorage Community College," he said. "I was really interested in seeing all the things this pastry chef was making. He took me under his wing and that's how it all started."

Joe made it to Alaska with his father, Walter Joseph Hickel, who grew up near Claflin. Walter left Kansas when he was 21.

"He was in San Francisco," Joe said. "He was going to try to go to Australia. He couldn't go there. He needed a passport. What was the next place to go? They said Alaska. He traveled up to Seattle and up through that. Three weeks later he ended up in Seward, Alaska."

Alaska was admitted as the 49th state in the union in 1959. Walter became the state's second governor from 1966-69, then served again from 1990-94. He was later Secretary of the Interior under President Richard Nixon. Joe's Christmas spirit was born in that first gubernatorial term.

"I always wanted to see something like that when I was a kid, but we didn't do that kind of tradition in our house," he said. "I started the tradition at the Captain Cook Hotel when my first daughter was born in 1978. I named it after my daughter, Marina's Village. "It started at 3x5, now it's close to 300 square feet."

The gingerbread villages, seen by thousands of visitors each year, are a true labor of love. Hickel begins making everything from scratch in July.

"My staff is up there working and I'm back in the bake shop cutting out all the chocolate stuff," he said. "It takes five months to get the whole thing done by the time I start in July until I put the last piece in."

And the village is not a money-maker. Hickel has been approached many times for donations. He said doing it for money would take the fun out of it.

"I don't want donations," he said. "The Lord didn't lay that in my heart to do any donations. He did it just to please the people and do something that was very free in my heart. It just gets better and better every year."

Hickel does bring slight variations to the village each year. His 45th and final village is his largest at 270 square feet. Even former Alaskan Lt. Gov. Mead Treadwell, who has seen every village since 1978, can't believe it's the last one. 

"There are so many people who come in between now and Christmas," Hickel said. "Some people are really sad, a couple people are a little upset. Most people understood it but they're still sad. I'm going to miss not making it up, but I'm not going to miss all the work that goes with it."

<a href="https://www.captaincookchristmas.com/">CLICK HERE</a> to access live feeds, video progressions, and photos of the current gingerbread village and Hickel's work from previous years.

The former Governor Hickel erected the first tower of Hotel Captain Cook. His son, Walter J. Hickel, Jr., is president and CEO of Hickel Investment Company, where he oversees its real estate division, including Hotel Captain Cook. The hotel features 546 rooms, including 96 suites. The property also features a 9,000-square-foot ballroom, four restaurants, and a dozen shops.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701438825744.png" alt="A live feed at Captain Hook Hotel in Anchorage, Alaska shows progress on the 270-square-foot gingerbread village created by Joe Hickel." />
 <figcaption>A live feed at Captain Hook Hotel in Anchorage, Alaska shows progress on the 270-square-foot gingerbread village created by Joe Hickel.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostJoe Hickel's Claflin ties are loose, but they're there. The 69-year-old Alaskan is the son of Claflin native and former Alaskan Governor Wally Hickel. But Joe made a name for himself as a pastry chef at Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage. Joe made news last week when he announced he was retiring after 45 years of making his famous gingerbread village at the hotel. It all started when he was in his early 20s."I was working construction for about five years, then I went out to Anchorage Community College," he said. "I was really interested in seeing all the things this pastry chef was making. He took me under his wing and that's how it all started."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701440222421.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Joe made it to Alaska with his father, Walter Joseph Hickel, who grew up near Claflin. Walter left Kansas when he was 21."He was in San Francisco," Joe said. "He was going to try to go to Australia. He couldn't go there. He needed a passport. What was the next place to go? They said Alaska. He traveled up to Seattle and up through that. Three weeks later he ended up in Seward, Alaska."Alaska was admitted as the 49th state in the union in 1959. Walter became the state's second governor from 1966-69, then served again from 1990-94. He was later Secretary of the Interior under President Richard Nixon. Joe's Christmas spirit was born in that first gubernatorial term."I always wanted to see something like that when I was a kid, but we didn't do that kind of tradition in our house," he said. "I started the tradition at the Captain Cook Hotel when my first daughter was born in 1978. I named it after my daughter, Marina's Village. "It started at 3x5, now it's close to 300 square feet."The gingerbread villages, seen by thousands of visitors each year, are a true labor of love. Hickel begins making everything from scratch in July."My staff is up there working and I'm back in the bake shop cutting out all the chocolate stuff," he said. "It takes five months to get the whole thing done by the time I start in July until I put the last piece in."And the village is not a money-maker. Hickel has been approached many times for donations. He said doing it for money would take the fun out of it."I don't want donations," he said. "The Lord didn't lay that in my heart to do any donations. He did it just to please the people and do something that was very free in my heart. It just gets better and better every year."Hickel does bring slight variations to the village each year. His 45th and final village is his largest at 270 square feet. Even former Alaskan Lt. Gov. Mead Treadwell, who has seen every village since 1978, can't believe it's the last one. "There are so many people who come in between now and Christmas," Hickel said. "Some people are really sad, a couple people are a little upset. Most people understood it but they're still sad. I'm going to miss not making it up, but I'm not going to miss all the work that goes with it."<a href="https://www.captaincookchristmas.com/">CLICK HERE</a> to access live feeds, video progressions, and photos of the current gingerbread village and Hickel's work from previous years.The former Governor Hickel erected the first tower of Hotel Captain Cook. His son, Walter J. Hickel, Jr., is president and CEO of Hickel Investment Company, where he oversees its real estate division, including Hotel Captain Cook. The hotel features 546 rooms, including 96 suites. The property also features a 9,000-square-foot ballroom, four restaurants, and a dozen shops.

Alaskan chef with Claflin ties retiring after 45 years of gingerbread villages

Today Sunny, with a high near 60. Southwest wind 7 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 30. West northwest wind 8 to 13 mph.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 53. West-northwest wind 7 to 11 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 32. East-southeast wind 6 to 10 mph becoming south after midnight.

Today Sunny, with a high near 60. Southwest wind 7 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Tonight Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 30. West northwest wind 8 to 13 mph.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 53. West-northwest wind 7 to 11 mph becoming east in the afternoon.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 32. East-southeast wind 6 to 10 mph becoming south after midnight.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 64. South-southwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 41.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 66.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.Friday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32.Saturday A 20-percent chance of rain. Mostly sunny, with a high near 48. Breezy.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 24.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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