Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/15)

At 12:04 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at SE 50
Avenue &amp; SE 40 Road in Ellinwood.

At 2:55 p.m. a stroke was reported at 325 N. Washington
Avenue.

At 5:07 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 320 Marla
Street.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (8/15)

At 2:37 a.m. a fire alarm was reported at 1425 Patton Road.

At 9:07 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1108 Pyle.

At 11:10 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1615 16th
Street.

At 12:21 p.m. a dog at large in the area was reported at
3000 Gano.

At 12:39 p.m. a report of being battered by a client was
made at 8823 4th Street.

At 2:21 p.m. the fire department checked the residence at
5926 Eisenhower for carbon monoxide.

At 3:21 p.m. a report of dogs left in a vehicle was made at
3503 10th Street.

At 3:47 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at Lakin &amp;
Main.

At 7:14 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2106 25th
Street.

At 7:58 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1419 21st
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/15)Animal ComplaintAt 12:04 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at SE 50
Avenue &amp; SE 40 Road in Ellinwood.StrokeAt 2:55 p.m. a stroke was reported at 325 N. Washington
Avenue.Animal ComplaintAt 5:07 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 320 Marla
Street.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (8/15)Structure FireAt 2:37 a.m. a fire alarm was reported at 1425 Patton Road.Abdominal Pain / ProblemsAt 9:07 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1108 Pyle.Sick PersonAt 11:10 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1615 16th
Street.Animal Complaint At 12:21 p.m. a dog at large in the area was reported at
3000 Gano.BatteryAt 12:39 p.m. a report of being battered by a client was
made at 8823 4th Street.Carbon MonoxideAt 2:21 p.m. the fire department checked the residence at
5926 Eisenhower for carbon monoxide.Animal ComplaintAt 3:21 p.m. a report of dogs left in a vehicle was made at
3503 10th Street.Traumatic InjuriesAt 3:47 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at Lakin &amp;
Main.Animal Complaint At 7:14 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2106 25th
Street.Chest PainAt 7:58 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1419 21st
Street.

Cop Shop (8/15)

8/15 BOOKED: Adenelli Gonzales-Leon on St. John Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

BOOKED: Kassandra Hillman on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,500 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Brianna Feist on Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Contempt of Court, after time served.

RELEASED: Jesse Pribble on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of Kansas Offender Registration Act x4, on $50,000 OR bond; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, on $10,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: James Drury on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8/15 BOOKED: Adenelli Gonzales-Leon on St. John Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.BOOKED: Kassandra Hillman on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,500 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Brianna Feist on Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Contempt of Court, after time served.RELEASED: Jesse Pribble on Barton County District Court warrant for Violation of Kansas Offender Registration Act x4, on $50,000 OR bond; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, on $10,000 OR bond.RELEASED: James Drury on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (8/15)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Projects to improve road safety continue around Barton County. The county opened bids on July 31 for a project to widen an existing reinforced concrete box bridge just over a mile east of Beaver on Northeast 190 Road. County Engineer Barry McManaman presented those bids to the board of commissioners Tuesday morning for approval.

"This is one of the boxes we have around the county," he said. "This is probably the worst one I know of right now. We have a drop along the edge of the white line - a pretty steep drop-off - and it's one that's been on my radar as something we needed to improve for safety purposes."

Great Bend's L&amp;M Contractors submitted the low bid of $119,944, which was less than half of the bid from a Wichita-based firm. Commissioners Donna Zimmerman and Tricia Schlessiger were pleased about the process.

"I think having the local bid be so much lower makes this a really easy decision," Zimmerman said. 

"I also appreciate your forward thinking in selecting these because there are quite a few that need improvement out in the county," said Schlessiger. "I appreciate you getting them on the list to get them done."

The work will add six feet on both sides of the concrete box, allowing the county road and bridge crew to backfill the area with dirt to create safe side slopes. The county recently completed a similar project north of Claflin at Northeast 130 Ave. and Northeast 130 Road.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723807167515.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostProjects to improve road safety continue around Barton County. The county opened bids on July 31 for a project to widen an existing reinforced concrete box bridge just over a mile east of Beaver on Northeast 190 Road. County Engineer Barry McManaman presented those bids to the board of commissioners Tuesday morning for approval."This is one of the boxes we have around the county," he said. "This is probably the worst one I know of right now. We have a drop along the edge of the white line - a pretty steep drop-off - and it's one that's been on my radar as something we needed to improve for safety purposes."Great Bend's L&amp;M Contractors submitted the low bid of $119,944, which was less than half of the bid from a Wichita-based firm. Commissioners Donna Zimmerman and Tricia Schlessiger were pleased about the process."I think having the local bid be so much lower makes this a really easy decision," Zimmerman said. "I also appreciate your forward thinking in selecting these because there are quite a few that need improvement out in the county," said Schlessiger. "I appreciate you getting them on the list to get them done."The work will add six feet on both sides of the concrete box, allowing the county road and bridge crew to backfill the area with dirt to create safe side slopes. The county recently completed a similar project north of Claflin at Northeast 130 Ave. and Northeast 130 Road.

Barton Commission approves bridge safety improvements near Beaver

Schools in Great Bend officially opened their doors for the 2024-25 school year on Wednesday. Students in grades PreK-6, seventh, and ninth all headed back to the classroom on Wednesday with the rest following on Thursday. While the first week back can be a time of fun and anxiety for students, the same can be true for teachers. Jody Beckham is beginning her third year as an Algebra I and Geometry teacher at Great Bend High School.

"Teachers get nervous, too," she said. "I think we're nervous as to what levels of students we're going to get, what kind of personalities we'll get, whether or not we'll be able to connect with them. Really, without any kind of connection, we can't teach them anything. It all starts with that connection. I think that's the most nerve-racking thing about teaching."

Danielle Ricklefs took over as instructor for Jag-K, or Jobs for America's Graduates - Kansas, midway through last school year. The class is an elective course providing academic and other positive supports for a successful pathway to graduation. Even with 20 years of experience in the educational field, including as a substitute teacher in USD 428, Ricklefs has her own feelings about the first day of school.

"It's my first full year, so yes, I have some nerves," she said. "I want to create a space for students to feel connected and interested in growing something great."

Beckham took an unusual route after college. She spent time in other fields, then stepped into the classroom as a substitute teacher starting in 2011. It gave her a new perspective.

"It seems like there are not many professions that invest in the youth of today," she said. "I've been on the law enforcement side and the county attorney side of things and just saw how much our youth needed invested in. I've always loved teaching. It's just always been a scary profession for me because, with substitute teaching, you come in and you're unprepared for students who don't know you. I just decided to take the plunge and transition into teaching."

Just as students have to prepare for the first day of school, teachers also prepare. Beckham includes classroom work into her schedule to avoid sending work home, and Ricklefs works outside of the typical classroom curriculum.

"If I can give them the work to do in class, and I can be the resource here for them, and they can be a resource for one another, then they're far more successful than if I send homework home that they can Google and get an answer to," Beckham said.

"There are many aspects to the Jag-K advantage that make it a unique classroom experience," said Ricklefs. "My personal favorites are that Jag-K students have opportunities to explore many careers and connect with community employer partners before graduation, improving their success right out of high school."  

The first day of school is often a chance for friends to reunite. It's also a chance for teachers to catch up with other teachers and to meet their students for the next nine months.

"I look forward to getting to know the kids and getting to know their stories and what their aspirations are," Beckham said. "Sometimes, you have kids who want to come through and just be done with high school. Then you have ones who are highly motivated and want to tell you all about that. Then you have ones who just don't know. If you can support them through the process, encourage them, and listen to their stories, as crazy as they may be, it's a lot of fun."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723578738176.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School Algebra I and Geometry Teacher Jody Beckham (left) and Jag-K Instructor Danielle Ricklefs" />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School Algebra I and Geometry Teacher Jody Beckham (left) and Jag-K Instructor Danielle Ricklefs</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSchools in Great Bend officially opened their doors for the 2024-25 school year on Wednesday. Students in grades PreK-6, seventh, and ninth all headed back to the classroom on Wednesday with the rest following on Thursday. While the first week back can be a time of fun and anxiety for students, the same can be true for teachers. Jody Beckham is beginning her third year as an Algebra I and Geometry teacher at Great Bend High School."Teachers get nervous, too," she said. "I think we're nervous as to what levels of students we're going to get, what kind of personalities we'll get, whether or not we'll be able to connect with them. Really, without any kind of connection, we can't teach them anything. It all starts with that connection. I think that's the most nerve-racking thing about teaching."Danielle Ricklefs took over as instructor for Jag-K, or Jobs for America's Graduates - Kansas, midway through last school year. The class is an elective course providing academic and other positive supports for a successful pathway to graduation. Even with 20 years of experience in the educational field, including as a substitute teacher in USD 428, Ricklefs has her own feelings about the first day of school."It's my first full year, so yes, I have some nerves," she said. "I want to create a space for students to feel connected and interested in growing something great."Beckham took an unusual route after college. She spent time in other fields, then stepped into the classroom as a substitute teacher starting in 2011. It gave her a new perspective."It seems like there are not many professions that invest in the youth of today," she said. "I've been on the law enforcement side and the county attorney side of things and just saw how much our youth needed invested in. I've always loved teaching. It's just always been a scary profession for me because, with substitute teaching, you come in and you're unprepared for students who don't know you. I just decided to take the plunge and transition into teaching."Just as students have to prepare for the first day of school, teachers also prepare. Beckham includes classroom work into her schedule to avoid sending work home, and Ricklefs works outside of the typical classroom curriculum."If I can give them the work to do in class, and I can be the resource here for them, and they can be a resource for one another, then they're far more successful than if I send homework home that they can Google and get an answer to," Beckham said."There are many aspects to the Jag-K advantage that make it a unique classroom experience," said Ricklefs. "My personal favorites are that Jag-K students have opportunities to explore many careers and connect with community employer partners before graduation, improving their success right out of high school." The first day of school is often a chance for friends to reunite. It's also a chance for teachers to catch up with other teachers and to meet their students for the next nine months."I look forward to getting to know the kids and getting to know their stories and what their aspirations are," Beckham said. "Sometimes, you have kids who want to come through and just be done with high school. Then you have ones who are highly motivated and want to tell you all about that. Then you have ones who just don't know. If you can support them through the process, encourage them, and listen to their stories, as crazy as they may be, it's a lot of fun."

USD 428 teachers share the ups and downs of a new year with students

Today A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Light and variable wind becoming east 6 to 11 mph in the morning.

Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 65. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 90. East-northeast wind 6 to 11 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68. East wind 7 to 10 mph.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 89. East-southeast wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Sunday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.

Monday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 90.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 67.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 90.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Light and variable wind becoming east 6 to 11 mph in the morning.Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 65. East wind 5 to 10 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 90. East-northeast wind 6 to 11 mph.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68. East wind 7 to 10 mph.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 89. East-southeast wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Sunday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.Monday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 65.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 90.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 67.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 90.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Whether they want to learn a trade so they can get a head start on a career or learn skills so they don’t have to pay someone else to fix things in their own homes, area high school students can take various workforce training programs at Barton Community College at no tuition cost through a state-funded program called “Excel in CTE (SB155)”, which aims to increase interest in trade-based careers.

Plumbing, carpentry, and welding all qualify for this program, to name a few. Students can spend time on-campus or online for specific programs and learn real-world skills, which can also lead to a certificate or associate degree.

Barton Director of Early College Opportunities Karly Little said she tries to showcase these opportunities to help students realize that there are many different options and opportunities as they try to figure out what they want to do in life.

“Some students get it in their heads that ‘college’ isn’t for them, but they don’t always know about the career opportunities that can open up for them when they earn an industry credential, certificate, or associate degree in a technical program,” she said. “Funding from Excel in CTE is helping increase high school students’ access to these career technical programs and showing them what’s really possible and how quickly they can achieve it. While there may be some textbook or material costs, this is still a great deal for students.”

Great Bend senior Kaid Wagner participated in the carpentry program this past year and said he enjoyed being able to attend his classes at Barton.

“I wake up every morning, and I get here on time and am ready to contribute every day,” he said. “I find building things to be therapeutic. Whatever is going on (in life), once we start building, it takes my mind off other things. It also helps me not have to pay someone else to do carpentry work for me.”

Great Bend High School senior Braxton Love participated in plumbing class last year and is already using what he learned.

“I started to make money off of plumbing even before finishing the class because I can already do good plumbing work,” he said. “It has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. My experience at Barton has been great, and it is an amazing learning environment with outstanding students and staff members. We have a huge practice workshop with great tools and materials to help perfect your trade.”

Great Bend High School senior Ethan Hammeke plans to pursue a career in agriculture and took welding to prepare him for equipment breakdowns.

“Welding is pretty important because if something breaks, you need to be able to fix it,” he said. “Fixing it yourself is always going to be cheaper than calling someone else, and you also get that satisfaction of knowing you fixed it yourself.”

For more information on what programs qualify visit&nbsp;<a href="https://highschool.bartonccc.edu/">highschool.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;and click on the “Excel in CTE” link or contact Karly Little at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:littlek@bartonccc.edu">littlek@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723660845487.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School senior Ethan Hammeke grinds a piece of metal in Barton’s welding lab during the past spring semester." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School senior Ethan Hammeke grinds a piece of metal in Barton’s welding lab during the past spring semester.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Joe VinduskaWhether they want to learn a trade so they can get a head start on a career or learn skills so they don’t have to pay someone else to fix things in their own homes, area high school students can take various workforce training programs at Barton Community College at no tuition cost through a state-funded program called “Excel in CTE (SB155)”, which aims to increase interest in trade-based careers.Plumbing, carpentry, and welding all qualify for this program, to name a few. Students can spend time on-campus or online for specific programs and learn real-world skills, which can also lead to a certificate or associate degree.Barton Director of Early College Opportunities Karly Little said she tries to showcase these opportunities to help students realize that there are many different options and opportunities as they try to figure out what they want to do in life.“Some students get it in their heads that ‘college’ isn’t for them, but they don’t always know about the career opportunities that can open up for them when they earn an industry credential, certificate, or associate degree in a technical program,” she said. “Funding from Excel in CTE is helping increase high school students’ access to these career technical programs and showing them what’s really possible and how quickly they can achieve it. While there may be some textbook or material costs, this is still a great deal for students.”Great Bend senior Kaid Wagner participated in the carpentry program this past year and said he enjoyed being able to attend his classes at Barton.“I wake up every morning, and I get here on time and am ready to contribute every day,” he said. “I find building things to be therapeutic. Whatever is going on (in life), once we start building, it takes my mind off other things. It also helps me not have to pay someone else to do carpentry work for me.”Great Bend High School senior Braxton Love participated in plumbing class last year and is already using what he learned.“I started to make money off of plumbing even before finishing the class because I can already do good plumbing work,” he said. “It has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. My experience at Barton has been great, and it is an amazing learning environment with outstanding students and staff members. We have a huge practice workshop with great tools and materials to help perfect your trade.”Great Bend High School senior Ethan Hammeke plans to pursue a career in agriculture and took welding to prepare him for equipment breakdowns.“Welding is pretty important because if something breaks, you need to be able to fix it,” he said. “Fixing it yourself is always going to be cheaper than calling someone else, and you also get that satisfaction of knowing you fixed it yourself.”For more information on what programs qualify visit&nbsp;<a href="https://highschool.bartonccc.edu/">highschool.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;and click on the “Excel in CTE” link or contact Karly Little at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:littlek@bartonccc.edu">littlek@bartonccc.edu</a>.

State-funded program helps high school students at Barton

The original Olympic motto – translated to Faster, Higher, Stronger. – was never in more splendid display as the past few weeks in Paris. If the Olympic spirit was a religion, the athletes were its evangelists.

Time after time, we were moved by sheer will or talent. A strangely inspired connection to people we didn’t know yesterday but who we scream at to go faster, higher, or stronger today.&nbsp;

Maybe because Olympic ideals represent the best of our democratic ideals. Regardless of circumstances one is born into, or obscurity toiled in, the liberties and rights we share when fused with self-determination and love of something allows anyone to catch their dreams in a bottle. Sport or otherwise. Podium or not. A Jeffersonian meritocracy.&nbsp;

Which made me ponder another representation of democracy. What if Kansas politics and government were in the Olympics? For aren’t they us too? Shouldn’t we be shrieking at our TV screens for them to go faster, higher, stronger? What would that look like?

A few years ago, the Olympics added “together” to the end of their motto. For you only move faster, or climb higher, or become stronger, in solidarity. Like an Olympic&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/31/sport/north-south-korea-selfie-paris-olympics-spt/index.html">North Korean and South Korean selfie</a>, will Kansas politics come together to show their best?

Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708024541249.jpeg" alt="written by: Bill Fiander - Teacher of university courses specializing in public administration and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka and holds a master's degree in urban and regional planning from George Washington University." />
 <figcaption>written by: Bill Fiander - Teacher of university courses specializing in public administration and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka and holds a master's degree in urban and regional planning from George Washington University.</figcaption>
 </figure>Citius, Altius, Fortius.&nbsp;The original Olympic motto – translated to Faster, Higher, Stronger. – was never in more splendid display as the past few weeks in Paris. If the Olympic spirit was a religion, the athletes were its evangelists.Time after time, we were moved by sheer will or talent. A strangely inspired connection to people we didn’t know yesterday but who we scream at to go faster, higher, or stronger today.&nbsp;Maybe because Olympic ideals represent the best of our democratic ideals. Regardless of circumstances one is born into, or obscurity toiled in, the liberties and rights we share when fused with self-determination and love of something allows anyone to catch their dreams in a bottle. Sport or otherwise. Podium or not. A Jeffersonian meritocracy.&nbsp;Which made me ponder another representation of democracy. What if Kansas politics and government were in the Olympics? For aren’t they us too? Shouldn’t we be shrieking at our TV screens for them to go faster, higher, stronger? What would that look like?<ul>
 <li>The Governor’s “Pommel-Horse Guys”&nbsp;- One of Team USA’s biggest cult heroes is the paragon of pommel-horse, Stephen Nedoroscik. The bespectacled Clark Kent of gymnasts who removes his glasses to compete helped end the men’s team medal drought by specializing in one event. A hired gun so good he can literally feel his way through a routine. Conversely, a nearsighted part-time&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/30/kansas-legislatures-committee-to-study-options-for-changing-state-budget-process/">legislative branch may step outside their Team Kansas lane</a>&nbsp;this fall to create their own proposed statewide budget which is an event traditionally (and statutorily) reserved for the professionally trained full-time “pommel-horse guys” in the Governor’s executive branch.&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;</li><li>“Ollie and Big Air” Legislators&nbsp;– In 2024, Kansas only saw two of its 165 legislators celebrate&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://stateaffairs.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/backofbook_12823.pdf">birthdays</a>&nbsp;with Gen Z vintage; a disconnect of young voices in lawmaking when 20-29 years is 14% of the state’s population and only 1% of the Legislature. But that number could double in November. Both Angel Roeser R-Manhattan and Alexis Simmons D-Topeka entertain very competitive chances to win their House seats and be synonymous with the youngest podium at the Olympics:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2024/08/06/olympic-medalists-at-womens-park-skateboarding-are-14-15-and-16/">women’s skateboarding (14-16 years)</a>. How about some Vans under the dome?</li><li>“Uncontested” is still the G.O.A.T.&nbsp;– Team USA saw their share of expected iconic dominance from swimming’s Katie Ledecky to gymnastics’ Simone Biles. But none can wear the G.O.A.T. necklace quite like “Uncontested”. This month, 80% of the Board of Education, 69% of both House and Senate, and 50% of Congressional races had&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ent.sos.ks.gov/Uncontested.html">NO opponents</a>! Likewise,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/08/12/kansas-primary-voters-were-smarter-than-megadonors-expected-but-too-many-stayed-home/?emci=501d6f34-4558-ef11-991a-6045bddbfc4b&amp;emdi=c6d8fa42-8958-ef11-991a-6045bddbfc4b&amp;ceid=125005">37% of November's Legislative races are unopposed</a>. As we painfully know when “Uncontested” enters a race, it's lights out 100% of the time for opponents. And change.</li><li>Comeback Kids&nbsp;– Nobody loves an epic comeback like America. And darned if we didn’t get two. USA’s Cole Hocker’s 1,500m and Kansas City’s Quincy Hall’s 400m? No. Independence’s Derek Schmidt and Baldwin City’s Nancy Boyda in the 2nd&nbsp;Congressional District. Democrat Boyda, seeking a return to the seat she held 15 years ago vs Schmidt, the former Republican Governor nominee, will need to dig deeper than a possessed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtube.com/shorts/S3vIeSmorzg?si=_doyBkqNGkLWAsmX">Hocker</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtube.com/shorts/3wZL_QMtqNw?si=0yXUJJK396TH6AAe">Hall</a>&nbsp;for her storybook ending in this gerrymandered district.</li>
 </ul>A few years ago, the Olympics added “together” to the end of their motto. For you only move faster, or climb higher, or become stronger, in solidarity. Like an Olympic&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/31/sport/north-south-korea-selfie-paris-olympics-spt/index.html">North Korean and South Korean selfie</a>, will Kansas politics come together to show their best?Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

INSIGHT KANSAS: If Kansas politics were in the Olympics

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The three candidates to fill a soon-to-be open seat on the Barton
Community College Board of Trustees were introduced at Tuesday’s study session.
Don Learned is resigning from the board after 19 years as a trustee to move to
Texas. 

Chairman Mike Johnson and the rest of the trustees heard from candidates
Doug Panning, Cole Schwarz and Will Rains.


"We have three very qualified applicants," said Johnson. "We've replaced trustees a number of times since I've been on the board for various reasons. It's always a mystery if you'll have good, quality applicants for the position. We do have three very good applicants. Any three of you would be an outstanding trustee, I have no doubt about that."

Panning, from Ellinwood, attended Barton Community College in the 1970s. Schwarz
was a trustee for three years, and came up short for another term in last year’s
General Election. Rains spent five years working for the college in the
correctional education program.


The current trustees will look over each candidate’s application and make a
vote at the Aug. 27 meeting. The chosen candidate will be sworn
into office in September.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Listen below to the entire Barton Community College Trustees study session on Aug. 13, 2024 and hear introductions from each of the candidates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581019321034.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe three candidates to fill a soon-to-be open seat on the Barton
Community College Board of Trustees were introduced at Tuesday’s study session.
Don Learned is resigning from the board after 19 years as a trustee to move to
Texas. Chairman Mike Johnson and the rest of the trustees heard from candidates
Doug Panning, Cole Schwarz and Will Rains.
"We have three very qualified applicants," said Johnson. "We've replaced trustees a number of times since I've been on the board for various reasons. It's always a mystery if you'll have good, quality applicants for the position. We do have three very good applicants. Any three of you would be an outstanding trustee, I have no doubt about that."Panning, from Ellinwood, attended Barton Community College in the 1970s. Schwarz
was a trustee for three years, and came up short for another term in last year’s
General Election. Rains spent five years working for the college in the
correctional education program.
The current trustees will look over each candidate’s application and make a
vote at the Aug. 27 meeting. The chosen candidate will be sworn
into office in September.&nbsp; &nbsp;Listen below to the entire Barton Community College Trustees study session on Aug. 13, 2024 and hear introductions from each of the candidates.<div><iframe title="Barton Community College Trustees study session (8-13-24)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=maizr-169f710-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Three candidates interested in Barton CC Trustees opening

The Barton County Commission will host a National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor town hall meeting beginning at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024, in Courtroom A of the Barton County Courthouse, 1400 Main, Third Floor, Great Bend.&nbsp; 

This open forum meeting is planned as a way for local governmental agencies, as well as the public, to discuss the designation process, route boundaries and coordinated response efforts. A list of questions is being developed.&nbsp; Please email questions to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dwatson@bartoncounty.org">dwatson@bartoncounty.org</a>.&nbsp; Questions will not be answered at this time, but will be compiled for future use.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723746827428.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Commission will host a National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor town hall meeting beginning at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024, in Courtroom A of the Barton County Courthouse, 1400 Main, Third Floor, Great Bend.&nbsp; This open forum meeting is planned as a way for local governmental agencies, as well as the public, to discuss the designation process, route boundaries and coordinated response efforts. A list of questions is being developed.&nbsp; Please email questions to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dwatson@bartoncounty.org">dwatson@bartoncounty.org</a>.&nbsp; Questions will not be answered at this time, but will be compiled for future use.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Barton Commission hosting electric transmission corridor meeting Tuesday

The “Airfest 2024 Preview Show” hosted by Steve Webster on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM. Guests include Mike Garrett who is a Tour Director with the Commemorative Air Force. He will talk about the B-17 and B-25 Bombers that will be in Great Bend for Airfest September 20-22 at the Municipal Airport.&nbsp;The show aired on Aug. 13, 2024.

Great Bend Airfest is Sept. 20-22. Find more information and buy tickets at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greatbendairfest.com/buy-tickets">greatbendairfest.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Featured photo is by Andrew Stemple

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722361372574.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The “Airfest 2024 Preview Show” hosted by Steve Webster on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM. Guests include Mike Garrett who is a Tour Director with the Commemorative Air Force. He will talk about the B-17 and B-25 Bombers that will be in Great Bend for Airfest September 20-22 at the Municipal Airport.&nbsp;The show aired on Aug. 13, 2024.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Airfest - Mike Garrett" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j93zf-169fd33-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Great Bend Airfest is Sept. 20-22. Find more information and buy tickets at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greatbendairfest.com/buy-tickets">greatbendairfest.com</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; Featured photo is by Andrew Stemple

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Airfest - Mike Garrett

We canned meat, lots and lots of meat! On August 7, 2024, the Cottonwood Extension District hosted a meat canning class held by K-State Research and Extension Specialist, Karen Blakeslee. We had 15 people attend from Ellis County and several of the surrounding counties, including Russell, Barton, and Ness counties. We canned chicken, beef, and hamburger that afternoon. Some of the attendees had canned before but many of them were new to canning meat. All attendees were able to take home at least one can of each meat.

I was intrigued by canning meat when I took a 3-day canning class that Karen offers specifically to agents. We were able to bring home the produce and meat canned and I found it so easy to put dinner on the table when the meat was ready to go! And the flavor of canned meat is amazing!

In addition to hands on meat canning, Karen spoke about best practices for safe food preservation, dehydration and freezing. Participants went home with lots of handouts and freebies from the Kansas Beef Council as well.

Many thanks to the First United Methodist Church for allowing us to hold programs in their wonderfully stocked kitchen!

If you haven’t had a chance to listen to Karen speak, you are missing out. She is very knowledgeable about all things food preservation. If you are interested in other food preservation workshops, Karen is holding a pickling class in Salina on August 22 from 12-5PM. Check out our Facebook page for the details or go to Central Kansas District Facebook page.

If you are interested in learning more about food preservation, please contact Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu or visit the Cottonwood Extension District website at https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/.&nbsp;

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723565219135.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We canned meat, lots and lots of meat! On August 7, 2024, the Cottonwood Extension District hosted a meat canning class held by K-State Research and Extension Specialist, Karen Blakeslee. We had 15 people attend from Ellis County and several of the surrounding counties, including Russell, Barton, and Ness counties. We canned chicken, beef, and hamburger that afternoon. Some of the attendees had canned before but many of them were new to canning meat. All attendees were able to take home at least one can of each meat.I was intrigued by canning meat when I took a 3-day canning class that Karen offers specifically to agents. We were able to bring home the produce and meat canned and I found it so easy to put dinner on the table when the meat was ready to go! And the flavor of canned meat is amazing!In addition to hands on meat canning, Karen spoke about best practices for safe food preservation, dehydration and freezing. Participants went home with lots of handouts and freebies from the Kansas Beef Council as well.Many thanks to the First United Methodist Church for allowing us to hold programs in their wonderfully stocked kitchen!If you haven’t had a chance to listen to Karen speak, you are missing out. She is very knowledgeable about all things food preservation. If you are interested in other food preservation workshops, Karen is holding a pickling class in Salina on August 22 from 12-5PM. Check out our Facebook page for the details or go to Central Kansas District Facebook page.If you are interested in learning more about food preservation, please contact Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu or visit the Cottonwood Extension District website at https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/.&nbsp;Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Food preservation - meat

OSAGE COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement officials are investigating a Great Bend woman for allegedly selling drugs in Osage County south of Topeka.

Just after 2 p.m. Wednesday, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 35 in Osage County for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, the deputy found illegal narcotics.

Amanda Rigby, 44, of Great Bend was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Distribution of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and No drug tax stamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723723063685.png" alt="Rigby photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Rigby photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement officials are investigating a Great Bend woman for allegedly selling drugs in Osage County south of Topeka.Just after 2 p.m. Wednesday, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 35 in Osage County for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, the deputy found illegal narcotics.Amanda Rigby, 44, of Great Bend was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Distribution of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and No drug tax stamp.=

Sheriff: Great Bend woman jailed for selling meth

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/14)

At 1:41 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at E. US 56
Highway &amp; NE 110 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 4:34 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 10th
&amp; Frey.

At 12:19 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1100 10th
Street.

At 12:33 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NW 30 Road
&amp; Washington Avenue.

At 3:01 p.m. a burglary was reported at 5810 Anchorway. 

At 3:49 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 30 Road.

At 4:36 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NW 220 Road in Hoisington.

At 5:31 p.m. a fire was reported at SE 130 Avenue &amp; SE
50 Road in Ellinwood.

At 10:05 p.m. an accident was reported at NE K-156 Highway
&amp; NE 20 Road in Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (8/14)

At 12:54 a.m. K-9 Niko was used during a traffic stop in the
100 block of NE 30 Road.

At 6:55 a.m. a parking complaint was reported at 1115 281
Bypass.

At 7:55 a.m. Jeremy King reported a theft at 1214 Stone.

At 8:31 a.m. a theft was reported at 1121 Baker.

At 11:46 a.m. a theft was reported at 3502 10th
Street.

At 1:16 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 4101 17th
Street.

At 4:07 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 919 Main
Street.

At 6:31 p.m. a theft was reported at 5714 Rosewood Dr.

At 7:15 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2501 Lakin.

At 7:35 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/14)Traffic ArrestAt 1:41 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at E. US 56
Highway &amp; NE 110 Avenue in Ellinwood.At 4:34 a.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 10th
&amp; Frey.Animal ComplaintAt 12:19 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1100 10th
Street.Driving / Driver Complaint At 12:33 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at NW 30 Road
&amp; Washington Avenue.Burglary / Not in ProgressAt 3:01 p.m. a burglary was reported at 5810 Anchorway. Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 3:49 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 30 Road.Cattle OutAt 4:36 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NW 220 Road in Hoisington.FireAt 5:31 p.m. a fire was reported at SE 130 Avenue &amp; SE
50 Road in Ellinwood.Non-Injury AccidentAt 10:05 p.m. an accident was reported at NE K-156 Highway
&amp; NE 20 Road in Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (8/14)K-9 Use / Call OutAt 12:54 a.m. K-9 Niko was used during a traffic stop in the
100 block of NE 30 Road.Parking ComplaintAt 6:55 a.m. a parking complaint was reported at 1115 281
Bypass.TheftAt 7:55 a.m. Jeremy King reported a theft at 1214 Stone.At 8:31 a.m. a theft was reported at 1121 Baker.TheftAt 11:46 a.m. a theft was reported at 3502 10th
Street.Traumatic InjuriesAt 1:16 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 4101 17th
Street.Sick PersonAt 4:07 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 919 Main
Street.TheftAt 6:31 p.m. a theft was reported at 5714 Rosewood Dr.Breathing ProblemsAt 7:15 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2501 Lakin.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:35 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

Cop Shop (8/14)

8/14 BOOKED: Heath Buehler on Barton County District Court case for DUI and Fail to Drive in Marked Lane, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Cecilia Ochoa-Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Driving Without a License and Improper Headlight, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Heath Buehler on Barton County District Court case for DUI and Fail to Drive in Marked Lane, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Cecilia Ochoa-Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Driving Without a License and Improper Headlight, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8/14 BOOKED: Heath Buehler on Barton County District Court case for DUI and Fail to Drive in Marked Lane, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Cecilia Ochoa-Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Driving Without a License and Improper Headlight, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Heath Buehler on Barton County District Court case for DUI and Fail to Drive in Marked Lane, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Cecilia Ochoa-Garcia on Barton County District Court case for Driving Without a License and Improper Headlight, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (8/14)

Throw the mill levy out the window when determining revenue-neutral rates. While most taxing entities around the state saw increased valuations and thus had to drop their mill levies to collect fewer tax dollars than the year before, that is not the case for many school districts. In July, Gov. Laura Kelly signed a tax relief bill increasing the amount of residential property exempted from the statewide school finance levy from $42,000 to $75,000. USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton said that's why the Great Bend district had to bump up its mill levy for supplemental general in its 2025 budget.

"Two years ago, we were at 13.7 in supplemental general (LOB)," he said. "Last year, we were at 14.14. This year, because of the drop in valuation and the tax-collection ratio, we're at 16.9. That is a large bump that we have not seen across our budget in a number of years, as long as I've been here."

For last year's budget, real estate in the district was valued at $161.2 million and $29.5 million of that was exempted. For the 2025 budget, the real estate value increased to $167.7 million in the district, but under the new exemption law, $49.9 million was exempted. By statute, the district must levy 20 mills for general education, and USD 428 routinely maxes out at eight mills for capital outlay. With the 16.93 mills levied for supplemental general, the district will collect $139,203 more in local tax dollars than it did in 2024.

"While a lot of other entities have other taxing revenues or other ways to generate revenue, we do not," said Assistant Superintendent John Popp. "Property tax is the only way this district can generate revenue. We do charge a very small amount for enrollment fees but that really doesn't generate any dollars for our operation. We can't issue a sales tax or levy any other kinds of taxes, it's only on property taxes that we're funded. We do get a great amount of equalization from the state to make that all work out."

The district also sees a tax-collection ratio near 92 percent each year. That figure was closer to 88 percent last year, meaning the district will have to generate more via mill levies to offset those losses. The district will hold its budget meeting at the District Education Center, 1809 24th Street, at 5:05 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 9.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723647073476.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThrow the mill levy out the window when determining revenue-neutral rates. While most taxing entities around the state saw increased valuations and thus had to drop their mill levies to collect fewer tax dollars than the year before, that is not the case for many school districts. In July, Gov. Laura Kelly signed a tax relief bill increasing the amount of residential property exempted from the statewide school finance levy from $42,000 to $75,000. USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton said that's why the Great Bend district had to bump up its mill levy for supplemental general in its 2025 budget."Two years ago, we were at 13.7 in supplemental general (LOB)," he said. "Last year, we were at 14.14. This year, because of the drop in valuation and the tax-collection ratio, we're at 16.9. That is a large bump that we have not seen across our budget in a number of years, as long as I've been here."For last year's budget, real estate in the district was valued at $161.2 million and $29.5 million of that was exempted. For the 2025 budget, the real estate value increased to $167.7 million in the district, but under the new exemption law, $49.9 million was exempted. By statute, the district must levy 20 mills for general education, and USD 428 routinely maxes out at eight mills for capital outlay. With the 16.93 mills levied for supplemental general, the district will collect $139,203 more in local tax dollars than it did in 2024."While a lot of other entities have other taxing revenues or other ways to generate revenue, we do not," said Assistant Superintendent John Popp. "Property tax is the only way this district can generate revenue. We do charge a very small amount for enrollment fees but that really doesn't generate any dollars for our operation. We can't issue a sales tax or levy any other kinds of taxes, it's only on property taxes that we're funded. We do get a great amount of equalization from the state to make that all work out."The district also sees a tax-collection ratio near 92 percent each year. That figure was closer to 88 percent last year, meaning the district will have to generate more via mill levies to offset those losses. The district will hold its budget meeting at the District Education Center, 1809 24th Street, at 5:05 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 9.

USD 428 outlines 2025 budget ahead of Sept. 9 meeting

For decades, the headquarters for Adams Brown has been located at 2006
Broadway Avenue in Great Bend. The accounting and consulting firm is not moving
far, but picked a new building just to the east to relocate. 

Beginning next
week, Adams Brown will be fully moved into their new office on Kansas Avenue,
directly north of the former JCPenney’s building. Nicole Koelsch, principal at
Adams Brown, said the move is designed to enhance teamwork and client service.


"From the internal team, it provides a space that we can better support our team efforts, work together and deliver that exceptional service to our clients," said Koelsch. "We're excited that we're still in downtown Great Bend."

The office will be closed Friday, Aug. 16 and Monday, Aug. 19 to facilitate the move and will
reopen Tuesday, Aug. 20 to the public at 1520 Kansas Avenue. The former Farm Services
Agency building will now house more than 30 Adams Brown employees.


"Just the way we laid it out, it flows and works a lot better than our current location," said Koelsch. "It's more convenient. We're also going to have a big training room to allow our team to fit comfortably for trainings. Also, the room could potentially allow our customers to come in for presentations or trainings."

A ribbon cutting ceremony, hosted by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, will
take place Sept. 19 at 10 a.m. to offer the public a chance to
tour the new office.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723662488739.jpeg" alt="Adams Brown will be open to the public at their new office location, 1520 Kansas Avenue, on Aug. 20." />
 <figcaption>Adams Brown will be open to the public at their new office location, 1520 Kansas Avenue, on Aug. 20.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFor decades, the headquarters for Adams Brown has been located at 2006
Broadway Avenue in Great Bend. The accounting and consulting firm is not moving
far, but picked a new building just to the east to relocate. Beginning next
week, Adams Brown will be fully moved into their new office on Kansas Avenue,
directly north of the former JCPenney’s building. Nicole Koelsch, principal at
Adams Brown, said the move is designed to enhance teamwork and client service.
"From the internal team, it provides a space that we can better support our team efforts, work together and deliver that exceptional service to our clients," said Koelsch. "We're excited that we're still in downtown Great Bend."The office will be closed Friday, Aug. 16 and Monday, Aug. 19 to facilitate the move and will
reopen Tuesday, Aug. 20 to the public at 1520 Kansas Avenue. The former Farm Services
Agency building will now house more than 30 Adams Brown employees.
"Just the way we laid it out, it flows and works a lot better than our current location," said Koelsch. "It's more convenient. We're also going to have a big training room to allow our team to fit comfortably for trainings. Also, the room could potentially allow our customers to come in for presentations or trainings."A ribbon cutting ceremony, hosted by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, will
take place Sept. 19 at 10 a.m. to offer the public a chance to
tour the new office.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695130098188.jpeg" alt="Adams Brown will move out of this location on Broadway this week." />
 <figcaption>Adams Brown will move out of this location on Broadway this week.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Adams Brown making short move to new office in Great Bend

Today Sunny, with a high near 92. West-southwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming north-northwest in the afternoon.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 67. North-northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Light and variable wind becoming east 5 to 9 mph in the morning.

Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 66. East-southeast wind 6 to 8 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 91. East wind 6 to 11 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 91.

Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.

Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.

Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 66.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 90.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 92. West-southwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming north-northwest in the afternoon.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 67. North-northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.Friday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Light and variable wind becoming east 5 to 9 mph in the morning.Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 66. East-southeast wind 6 to 8 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 91. East wind 6 to 11 mph.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 91.Sunday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.Monday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 66.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 90.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

Officials from three Central Kansas counties are in fact-finding mode. Talks about a large energy transmission line like the Grain Belt Express going through Kansas have been ongoing for some time. Things became a little more official when, on May 8, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released a preliminary list of potential National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors (NIETCs). The proposed 5-mile-wide corridor would cut through Barton, Russell, and Pawnee Counties, among others in Kansas. Barton County Counselor Patrick Hoffman led a study session on the topic Tuesday.

"Electricity has always been really good for power users," he said, "and it's been pretty good for power generators, but the problem that comes with electricity, from the very beginning, is there's a transmission line that goes through a bunch of other people who aren't really excited about getting it."

The DOE listed 10 proposed corridors. The Midwest-Plains corridor extends 780 miles from Dodge City through Pawnee County, north past Barton and Russell Counties, then east to the Illinois-Indiana state line. A move from the DOE to designate a transmission corridor would kickstart several other processes, including enabling energy developers to receive federal funding. Commissioners from Barton, Russell, and Pawnee Counties have agreed to a joint meeting on the subject, possibly alongside Katie Sawyer, State Director for Dr. Roger Marshall's senate office.

"We will have a chance to create a document of some kind that is our local input," Hoffman said. "We will pass it publicly and send it to the Department of Energy. I think it makes sense to coordinate with all the other people and not just do our own thing completely. I don't think we should wait around forever, but I think we should listen to these other meetings."

There are four phases in the designation process. The public comment phase (two) ended on June 24, and Phase 3 is expected to begin this fall. 

Hoffman said though one transmission line may be behind the proposed corridor in Kansas, the idea is that it's a corridor that other companies could also use. The 5-mile wide corridor does not necessarily establish the easement that would determine how landowners within the corridor are affected.

Area county commissioners are also working with the Kansas Natural Resources Coalition to gather information about the project. The Larned Community Center is hosting an information meeting about the project on Thursday, Aug. 15 at 6 p.m.

<a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/mapviewer/index.html?layers=49441b164db549759ff9aa2a2804c0e4&amp;layerId=1&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawEhvEdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdGDls3stN1hK02Snnvldwa9soif1uqGkcLw7DeWCy62Uby1_nH0DBaoWw_aem_1GS3TgpB0bq3Ny0YOmxySg">CLICK HERE</a> for an interactive map of the proposed corridors.

<a href="https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2024-05/PreliminaryListPotentialNIETCsPublicRelease.pdf">CLICK HERE</a> for the Department of Energy's detailed plans for each of the corridors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626048437572.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostOfficials from three Central Kansas counties are in fact-finding mode. Talks about a large energy transmission line like the Grain Belt Express going through Kansas have been ongoing for some time. Things became a little more official when, on May 8, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released a preliminary list of potential National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors (NIETCs). The proposed 5-mile-wide corridor would cut through Barton, Russell, and Pawnee Counties, among others in Kansas. Barton County Counselor Patrick Hoffman led a study session on the topic Tuesday."Electricity has always been really good for power users," he said, "and it's been pretty good for power generators, but the problem that comes with electricity, from the very beginning, is there's a transmission line that goes through a bunch of other people who aren't really excited about getting it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723660610524.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The DOE listed 10 proposed corridors. The Midwest-Plains corridor extends 780 miles from Dodge City through Pawnee County, north past Barton and Russell Counties, then east to the Illinois-Indiana state line. A move from the DOE to designate a transmission corridor would kickstart several other processes, including enabling energy developers to receive federal funding. Commissioners from Barton, Russell, and Pawnee Counties have agreed to a joint meeting on the subject, possibly alongside Katie Sawyer, State Director for Dr. Roger Marshall's senate office."We will have a chance to create a document of some kind that is our local input," Hoffman said. "We will pass it publicly and send it to the Department of Energy. I think it makes sense to coordinate with all the other people and not just do our own thing completely. I don't think we should wait around forever, but I think we should listen to these other meetings."There are four phases in the designation process. The public comment phase (two) ended on June 24, and Phase 3 is expected to begin this fall. Hoffman said though one transmission line may be behind the proposed corridor in Kansas, the idea is that it's a corridor that other companies could also use. The 5-mile wide corridor does not necessarily establish the easement that would determine how landowners within the corridor are affected.Area county commissioners are also working with the Kansas Natural Resources Coalition to gather information about the project. The Larned Community Center is hosting an information meeting about the project on Thursday, Aug. 15 at 6 p.m.<a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/mapviewer/index.html?layers=49441b164db549759ff9aa2a2804c0e4&amp;layerId=1&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawEhvEdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdGDls3stN1hK02Snnvldwa9soif1uqGkcLw7DeWCy62Uby1_nH0DBaoWw_aem_1GS3TgpB0bq3Ny0YOmxySg">CLICK HERE</a> for an interactive map of the proposed corridors.<a href="https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2024-05/PreliminaryListPotentialNIETCsPublicRelease.pdf">CLICK HERE</a> for the Department of Energy's detailed plans for each of the corridors.

Proposed energy transmission corridor causing concern in Barton, other counties

When ValueHealth, the parent company of Benefit Management (BMI), filed
for bankruptcy last week, it forced the abrupt closure of the Great Bend
business and the rest of ValueHealth’s businesses.
BMI served as a health insurance and benefit administrator for several
entities, including Barton Community College. 

The college is self-insured, but
BMI acted as the claims processor.
Barton Vice President of Administration Mark Dean said the closure caused some employees
and medical providers to panic, even though college employees never lost their
health insurance, just their claims administrator.


"You had individuals who were already going through emotional problems because either them or a spouse has a terrible medical condition," said Dean. "They're going to get treatment and the provider says we're not going to treat you unless you pay cash. We did have a few employees that had appointments last Thursday and Friday who were told they had to pay cash and they had to reschedule."

Barton met with Freedom Claims Management last Friday and agreed to have the
business take over the college’s claims management. A letter from Freedom
Claims was sent to all employees Tuesday notifying them of their new processor.



"We've been on the phones with doctors, dentists and hospitals," said Dean. "I had three today that were turning our employees down still. Once we explained to them what the actual situation is, all of them have reversed it and are providing treatment and services."

Benefit Management shut down their downtown Great Bend office Wednesday morning
and notified their employees that all operations were coming to an end.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723643951818.jpeg" alt="Benefit Management in Great Bend closed last week after its parent company, ValueHealth, filed for bankruptcy." />
 <figcaption>Benefit Management in Great Bend closed last week after its parent company, ValueHealth, filed for bankruptcy.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen ValueHealth, the parent company of Benefit Management (BMI), filed
for bankruptcy last week, it forced the abrupt closure of the Great Bend
business and the rest of ValueHealth’s businesses.
BMI served as a health insurance and benefit administrator for several
entities, including Barton Community College. The college is self-insured, but
BMI acted as the claims processor.
Barton Vice President of Administration Mark Dean said the closure caused some employees
and medical providers to panic, even though college employees never lost their
health insurance, just their claims administrator.
"You had individuals who were already going through emotional problems because either them or a spouse has a terrible medical condition," said Dean. "They're going to get treatment and the provider says we're not going to treat you unless you pay cash. We did have a few employees that had appointments last Thursday and Friday who were told they had to pay cash and they had to reschedule."Barton met with Freedom Claims Management last Friday and agreed to have the
business take over the college’s claims management. A letter from Freedom
Claims was sent to all employees Tuesday notifying them of their new processor.

"We've been on the phones with doctors, dentists and hospitals," said Dean. "I had three today that were turning our employees down still. Once we explained to them what the actual situation is, all of them have reversed it and are providing treatment and services."Benefit Management shut down their downtown Great Bend office Wednesday morning
and notified their employees that all operations were coming to an end.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Barton Community College recovering from BMI closure

With the Great Bend Wetlands Waterpark closing for the 2024 season this
past weekend, it is time to turn the pool over to the dogs. For years, the city
pool has offered “Bark at the Waterpark” once the pool season finishes. 


Great Bend Recreation Commission Aquatics Director Megan Hammeke said for $5
per dog, your pup can enjoy a swim in the pool this Saturday from 10 a.m. to
12 p.m.


"We drop the chlorine so it's safe for the dogs to be in the pool," said Hammeke. "If any humans are getting in with their dogs that they don't go past their waist. It's not a swimming time for anybody but pups. Keep your head above the water."

Last year, more than 100 dogs made use of the “Bark at the Waterpark” time. Pet
owners will sign a registration form once entering, and the dogs are free to run
around without a leash. 


Proceeds from the event will benefit the Great Bend dog park with dog waste
bags.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692561076182.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWith the Great Bend Wetlands Waterpark closing for the 2024 season this
past weekend, it is time to turn the pool over to the dogs. For years, the city
pool has offered “Bark at the Waterpark” once the pool season finishes. 
Great Bend Recreation Commission Aquatics Director Megan Hammeke said for $5
per dog, your pup can enjoy a swim in the pool this Saturday from 10 a.m. to
12 p.m.
"We drop the chlorine so it's safe for the dogs to be in the pool," said Hammeke. "If any humans are getting in with their dogs that they don't go past their waist. It's not a swimming time for anybody but pups. Keep your head above the water."Last year, more than 100 dogs made use of the “Bark at the Waterpark” time. Pet
owners will sign a registration form once entering, and the dogs are free to run
around without a leash. 
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Great Bend dog park with dog waste
bags.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Time for a dog swim at Great Bend pool

On Aug. 9, at approximately 7:56 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop in the 2700 block of Main Street for a traffic violation. While conducting the traffic stop, Great Bend Police K9 Niko was deployed for a free air sniff, during which Niko indicated to the odor of narcotics from the vehicle. Inside of the vehicle, suspected methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and THC vape pods were located. The driver, and only occupant, Katie Kimzey, age 28, was arrested and booked&nbsp;into the Barton County Jail&nbsp;in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

On Aug. 13, at approximately 3:40 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 700 block of Morphy Street for a traffic violation. The officer was advised the driver, and only occupant, Isaias Gonzalez, age 46, had a suspended driver’s license. K9 Niko responded and alerted to the odor of narcotics from the vehicle. Inside the vehicle, suspected methamphetamine and paraphernalia were located. Gonzalez was arrested and booked into the Barton County Jail in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

On Aug. 9, at approximately 7:56 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop in the 2700 block of Main Street for a traffic violation. While conducting the traffic stop, Great Bend Police K9 Niko was deployed for a free air sniff, during which Niko indicated to the odor of narcotics from the vehicle. Inside of the vehicle, suspected methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and THC vape pods were located. The driver, and only occupant, Katie Kimzey, age 28, was arrested and booked&nbsp;into the Barton County Jail&nbsp;in lieu of a $10,000 bond.---On Aug. 13, at approximately 3:40 p.m., an officer from the Great Bend Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 700 block of Morphy Street for a traffic violation. The officer was advised the driver, and only occupant, Isaias Gonzalez, age 46, had a suspended driver’s license. K9 Niko responded and alerted to the odor of narcotics from the vehicle. Inside the vehicle, suspected methamphetamine and paraphernalia were located. Gonzalez was arrested and booked into the Barton County Jail in lieu of a $10,000 bond.If anyone has any information regarding these or any other investigations, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

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