At about 5:30 p.m. Monday, the Ness County Sheriff's Office effected two arrest warrants and one search warrant at 212 S Tennessee Ave. in Ransom.

Two individuals were arrested on the warrants, citing criminal charges of mistreatment of a dependant adult, criminal restraint and endangerment.

Both individuals were arrested and released on $40,000 recognizance bonds issued by the Ness County District Court.

Ness County Sheriff's OfficeAt about 5:30 p.m. Monday, the Ness County Sheriff's Office effected two arrest warrants and one search warrant at 212 S Tennessee Ave. in Ransom.Two individuals were arrested on the warrants, citing criminal charges of mistreatment of a dependant adult, criminal restraint and endangerment.Both individuals were arrested and released on $40,000 recognizance bonds issued by the Ness County District Court.

Sheriff: 2 accused in mistreatment of dependent adult

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

No final costs have been submitted yet, but the Great Bend Public Library
staff is grateful the expense will be drastically less than expected when their
air conditioner quit earlier this month. Library Director Maribeth Shafer
updated the Great Bend City Council at Monday’s meeting that the HVAC system
was fixed July 2 without having to replace the heat exchanger.


At the July 1 meeting, councilmember Alan Moeder voiced concern with the city’s contract with the library. Any expense over $5,000 is covered by the
city.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/31ab1b5d-f98c-495b-bc45-9856096bfb75">RELATED STORY: Let's revisit contract with library</a>

"I know there have been some concerns," said Shafer. "I know the library's HVAC has some bad blood. We're striving to be transparent, clear and keep the city informed. As quickly as we know something, I share it out. If I'm concerned there's going to be a large cost, I want to let you know. I do everything I can to fix it and keep costs at a minimum."

The HVAC at the library was installed in 2015 for $920,000. At that time, there
were councilmembers questioning the library’s choice and the city getting stuck
with the bill. The city paid for the HVAC system upfront by transferring
funds from different accounts. Great Bend put the library on a loan with a two
percent interest rate.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720202202682.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostNo final costs have been submitted yet, but the Great Bend Public Library
staff is grateful the expense will be drastically less than expected when their
air conditioner quit earlier this month. Library Director Maribeth Shafer
updated the Great Bend City Council at Monday’s meeting that the HVAC system
was fixed July 2 without having to replace the heat exchanger.
At the July 1 meeting, councilmember Alan Moeder voiced concern with the city’s contract with the library. Any expense over $5,000 is covered by the
city.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/31ab1b5d-f98c-495b-bc45-9856096bfb75">RELATED STORY: Let's revisit contract with library</a>"I know there have been some concerns," said Shafer. "I know the library's HVAC has some bad blood. We're striving to be transparent, clear and keep the city informed. As quickly as we know something, I share it out. If I'm concerned there's going to be a large cost, I want to let you know. I do everything I can to fix it and keep costs at a minimum."The HVAC at the library was installed in 2015 for $920,000. At that time, there
were councilmembers questioning the library’s choice and the city getting stuck
with the bill. The city paid for the HVAC system upfront by transferring
funds from different accounts. Great Bend put the library on a loan with a two
percent interest rate.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend library working through ‘cheaper’ HVAC expense

In drier years I get this question. When the soil is dry, will it be able to hold anhydrous ammonia or will some or most of the ammonia be lost shortly after application?

There are three factors that come into play when applying anhydrous ammonia to dry soils.

Chemical - Ammonia (NH3) needs to react with water shortly after application in order to convert into ammonium (NH4+), which is the molecule that can adhere to clay and organic matter in the soil. Ammonia is very soluble in water. After it is placed in the soil, NH3 reacts with water in the soil to form NH4+, which is retained on the soil cation exchange capacity sites. This process takes a little time – it does not occur immediately upon contact with the soil. The main controlling factors in the conversion of NH3 to NH4+ are soil temperature, soil moisture, and soil pH. The higher the soil temperature and the wetter the soil, the more rapid the conversion occurs. If the ammonia does not react with water, it will remain as a gas that could escape from the soil. Also, equilibrium between NH3 and NH4+ is affected by soil pH. More NH3 will remain unconverted in the soil longer at higher application rates and at higher soil pH levels.

Physical - Dry soils may be cloddy, with large air spaces where the soil has cracked. This can allow the gas to physically escape into the air before it has a chance to be converted into ammonium. Getting the soil sealed properly above the injection slot can also be a problem in dry soils. Loss of the ammonium gas can begin immediately after application continuing for several days to weeks if there is no moisture. N losses can be greater than 50%.

Application depth - The deeper the ammonia is applied, the more likely the ammonia will have moisture to react with, and the easier the sealing.

So, can anhydrous ammonia be applied to dry soils?

The answer is yes - as long as the ammonia is applied deep enough to get it in some moisture and the soil is well sealed above the injection slot. If the soil is dry and cloddy, there may be considerable losses of ammonia within just a few days of application if the soil is not well sealed above the injection slot and/or the injection point is too shallow.

Producers should be able to tell if anhydrous is escaping from the soil during application or if the ammonia isn’t being applied deeply enough. If ammonia can be smelled, the producer should either change the equipment setup to get better sealing or deeper injection, or wait until the soil has better moisture conditions.

In short, producers can minimize this potential loss problem by applying the anhydrous ammonia at the proper depth (at least 6 to 8 inches in 30 to 40 inch spacings), and using covering disks behind the knives or sealing wings ("beaver tails") on the knives.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>In drier years I get this question. When the soil is dry, will it be able to hold anhydrous ammonia or will some or most of the ammonia be lost shortly after application?There are three factors that come into play when applying anhydrous ammonia to dry soils.Chemical - Ammonia (NH3) needs to react with water shortly after application in order to convert into ammonium (NH4+), which is the molecule that can adhere to clay and organic matter in the soil. Ammonia is very soluble in water. After it is placed in the soil, NH3 reacts with water in the soil to form NH4+, which is retained on the soil cation exchange capacity sites. This process takes a little time – it does not occur immediately upon contact with the soil. The main controlling factors in the conversion of NH3 to NH4+ are soil temperature, soil moisture, and soil pH. The higher the soil temperature and the wetter the soil, the more rapid the conversion occurs. If the ammonia does not react with water, it will remain as a gas that could escape from the soil. Also, equilibrium between NH3 and NH4+ is affected by soil pH. More NH3 will remain unconverted in the soil longer at higher application rates and at higher soil pH levels.Physical - Dry soils may be cloddy, with large air spaces where the soil has cracked. This can allow the gas to physically escape into the air before it has a chance to be converted into ammonium. Getting the soil sealed properly above the injection slot can also be a problem in dry soils. Loss of the ammonium gas can begin immediately after application continuing for several days to weeks if there is no moisture. N losses can be greater than 50%.Application depth - The deeper the ammonia is applied, the more likely the ammonia will have moisture to react with, and the easier the sealing.So, can anhydrous ammonia be applied to dry soils?The answer is yes - as long as the ammonia is applied deep enough to get it in some moisture and the soil is well sealed above the injection slot. If the soil is dry and cloddy, there may be considerable losses of ammonia within just a few days of application if the soil is not well sealed above the injection slot and/or the injection point is too shallow.Producers should be able to tell if anhydrous is escaping from the soil during application or if the ammonia isn’t being applied deeply enough. If ammonia can be smelled, the producer should either change the equipment setup to get better sealing or deeper injection, or wait until the soil has better moisture conditions.In short, producers can minimize this potential loss problem by applying the anhydrous ammonia at the proper depth (at least 6 to 8 inches in 30 to 40 inch spacings), and using covering disks behind the knives or sealing wings ("beaver tails") on the knives.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Can dry soils affect anhydrous ammonia applications in KS?

PAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged sex assault at the public pool in Larned.&nbsp;

According to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett, on July 11, police were called to the Larned City Pool, 100 West First Street, to investigate an alleged sexual assault of a minor at the pool facility. 

They advised the adult suspect was interviewed at the scene, but no arrest was made at the time due to concerns with the suspect’s mental capacity. 

The crime scene was processed, and staff interviewed. A formal forensic interview will be scheduled with the victim to be performed by the Child Advocacy Center. At this time no formal charging requests have been submitted to the Pawnee County Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721160855532.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged sex assault at the public pool in Larned.&nbsp;According to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett, on July 11, police were called to the Larned City Pool, 100 West First Street, to investigate an alleged sexual assault of a minor at the pool facility. They advised the adult suspect was interviewed at the scene, but no arrest was made at the time due to concerns with the suspect’s mental capacity. The crime scene was processed, and staff interviewed. A formal forensic interview will be scheduled with the victim to be performed by the Child Advocacy Center. At this time no formal charging requests have been submitted to the Pawnee County Attorney’s Office.

Police investigate alleged sex assault of child at Larned pool

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/16)

At 8:55 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1500
block of NE 50 Road in Claflin.

At 8:59 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 400
block of NE 30 Road.

At 9:45 a.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway
&amp; SE 90 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 11:43 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56
Highway at MM 215 in Ellinwood.

At 12:15 p.m. the K-9 was called out in the 1000 block of
Baker Avenue.

At 1:48 p.m. the K-9 was called out in the 1600 block of 16th
Street.

At 10:07 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 9th
&amp; Washington.

At 10:17 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 9th &amp;
Washington.

At 11:31 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 1800 block of
Main Street.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (7/16)

At 2:14 a.m. someone being in a vacant residence was
reported at 2507 Quivira Avenue.

At 9:25 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.

At 9:29 a.m. extra patrol in the area of the courthouse was
requested due to previous threats at 1400 Main.

Ambulance Assistance was needed at 700 Stone Street.

At 5:19 p.m. theft of a bike was reported at 5210 10th
Street.

At 6:26 p.m. a possible accident was reported at 1212
Sheridan.

At 6:28 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5818
Rosewood Dr.

At 10:07 p.m. an officer arrested Ryann Miller for driving
while revoked at 9th &amp; Washington.

At 11:24 p.m. Danyelle Allison reported knocking at her
front door at 2415 Cheyenne Dr.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/16)Cattle OutAt 8:55 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1500
block of NE 50 Road in Claflin.At 8:59 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 400
block of NE 30 Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:45 a.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway
&amp; SE 90 Avenue in Ellinwood.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 11:43 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at E. US 56
Highway at MM 215 in Ellinwood.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 12:15 p.m. the K-9 was called out in the 1000 block of
Baker Avenue.At 1:48 p.m. the K-9 was called out in the 1600 block of 16th
Street.Traffic ArrestAt 10:07 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at 9th
&amp; Washington.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 10:17 p.m. the K-9 was called out to 9th &amp;
Washington.At 11:31 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 1800 block of
Main Street.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (7/16)Burglary / In ProgressAt 2:14 a.m. someone being in a vacant residence was
reported at 2507 Quivira Avenue.Sick PersonAt 9:25 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 9:29 a.m. extra patrol in the area of the courthouse was
requested due to previous threats at 1400 Main.Diabetic ProblemsAmbulance Assistance was needed at 700 Stone Street.TheftAt 5:19 p.m. theft of a bike was reported at 5210 10th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:26 p.m. a possible accident was reported at 1212
Sheridan.Sick PersonAt 6:28 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5818
Rosewood Dr.Traffic ArrestAt 10:07 p.m. an officer arrested Ryann Miller for driving
while revoked at 9th &amp; Washington.ProwlerAt 11:24 p.m. Danyelle Allison reported knocking at her
front door at 2415 Cheyenne Dr.

Cop Shop (7/16)

7/16 BOOKED: Cristian Lusero-Bujanda on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Brianna Feist on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Contempt of Court, total bond set at $905 cash only.

BOOKED: David Wirth on Barton County District Court warrant for Vehicular Homicide, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Kirk Sander on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Controlled Substance, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Criminal carrying of a weapon, Possession of Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp, Window Tint, and No Insurance, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Ryan Miller on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Revoked, bond set at $500 C/S or 48-hour OR.

RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to JIA.&nbsp;

RELEASED: David Wirth on Barton County District Court warrant for Vehicular Homicide, after posting a $2,500 cash bond.

RELEASED: Tyler Partington on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Kirk Sander on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Controlled Substance, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Criminal carrying of a weapon, Possession of Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp, Window Tint, and No Insurance, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Dakota Kocher on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Ryann Miller on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Revoked, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/16 BOOKED: Cristian Lusero-Bujanda on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Brianna Feist on two Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Contempt of Court, total bond set at $905 cash only.BOOKED: David Wirth on Barton County District Court warrant for Vehicular Homicide, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Kirk Sander on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Controlled Substance, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Criminal carrying of a weapon, Possession of Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp, Window Tint, and No Insurance, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Christopher Herl on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $2,000 C/S.BOOKED: Ryan Miller on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Revoked, bond set at $500 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to JIA.&nbsp;RELEASED: David Wirth on Barton County District Court warrant for Vehicular Homicide, after posting a $2,500 cash bond.RELEASED: Tyler Partington on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Kirk Sander on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Controlled Substance, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Criminal carrying of a weapon, Possession of Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp, Window Tint, and No Insurance, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Dakota Kocher on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Ryann Miller on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Revoked, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (7/16)

The opening of the new Ag and Transportation Complex at Barton Community College is approaching this August, and to assist with ongoing projects at the complex, the Barton Foundation has received a significant leadership pledge from American Plains Co-op.

Over three years, this substantial commitment will provide funding to advance the project's goals and develop added learning opportunities for Barton’s agriculture students. In addition to the original pledge, one of American Plains’ partners has agreed to match the pledge, allowing them to double their impact.

Executive Director of Institutional Advancement and Director of the Barton Foundation Lindsey Bogner said this pledge highlights the shared vision and dedication to fostering growth and sustainability within the agricultural community.

“American Plains Co-op has a long-standing history of supporting Barton, and we are honored to work with them,” she said. “Their leadership pledge underscores their dedication to the future of agriculture and the importance of investing in educational opportunities available in our region.”

American Plains Co-op Communications and Brand Programs Coordinator Cammie Vaupel said they value supporting local community initiatives such as the new ag complex.

“Contributing to the development of the new agricultural complex at Barton Community College will enhance our community and agriculture alike by addressing the growing workforce demands through advanced training opportunities,” she said. “This investment in innovation and technology underscores our commitment to advancing agricultural practices and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.”

Community members are welcome to attend a dedication, ribbon cutting, and open house beginning at 4 p.m. July 17 at the Agriculture and Transportation Complex. For more information or to learn how to support the Barton Foundation, contact the Foundation at (620) 786-1136 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccfoundation.org/">bartonccfoundation.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721060875092.jpeg" alt="Representatives from American Plains Co-op join the Barton Community College team during the construction of the new Ag and Transportation Complex to mark the beginning of a new partnership with a three-year leadership pledge to the Barton Foundation. (Front row, from left) Barton Executive Director of Agriculture and Industry Education Mary Foley, Former Barton President Dr. Carl Heilman, CEO of American Plains Co-op Bryan Moser, American Plains Co-op Communications and Brand Programs Coordinator Cammie Vaupel, Barton Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Lindsey Bogner, Dean of Workforce Training and Community Education Dr. Kathy Kottas, (Back row, from left) Vice President of Instruction Elaine Simmons, Vice President of Administration Mark Dean, CNH Trainer Mark Bogner, and Agriculture Instructor and Coordinator Dr. Vic Martin." />
 <figcaption>Representatives from American Plains Co-op join the Barton Community College team during the construction of the new Ag and Transportation Complex to mark the beginning of a new partnership with a three-year leadership pledge to the Barton Foundation. (Front row, from left) Barton Executive Director of Agriculture and Industry Education Mary Foley, Former Barton President Dr. Carl Heilman, CEO of American Plains Co-op Bryan Moser, American Plains Co-op Communications and Brand Programs Coordinator Cammie Vaupel, Barton Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Lindsey Bogner, Dean of Workforce Training and Community Education Dr. Kathy Kottas, (Back row, from left) Vice President of Instruction Elaine Simmons, Vice President of Administration Mark Dean, CNH Trainer Mark Bogner, and Agriculture Instructor and Coordinator Dr. Vic Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Maggie HarrisThe opening of the new Ag and Transportation Complex at Barton Community College is approaching this August, and to assist with ongoing projects at the complex, the Barton Foundation has received a significant leadership pledge from American Plains Co-op.Over three years, this substantial commitment will provide funding to advance the project's goals and develop added learning opportunities for Barton’s agriculture students. In addition to the original pledge, one of American Plains’ partners has agreed to match the pledge, allowing them to double their impact.Executive Director of Institutional Advancement and Director of the Barton Foundation Lindsey Bogner said this pledge highlights the shared vision and dedication to fostering growth and sustainability within the agricultural community.“American Plains Co-op has a long-standing history of supporting Barton, and we are honored to work with them,” she said. “Their leadership pledge underscores their dedication to the future of agriculture and the importance of investing in educational opportunities available in our region.”American Plains Co-op Communications and Brand Programs Coordinator Cammie Vaupel said they value supporting local community initiatives such as the new ag complex.“Contributing to the development of the new agricultural complex at Barton Community College will enhance our community and agriculture alike by addressing the growing workforce demands through advanced training opportunities,” she said. “This investment in innovation and technology underscores our commitment to advancing agricultural practices and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.”Community members are welcome to attend a dedication, ribbon cutting, and open house beginning at 4 p.m. July 17 at the Agriculture and Transportation Complex. For more information or to learn how to support the Barton Foundation, contact the Foundation at (620) 786-1136 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccfoundation.org/">bartonccfoundation.org</a>.

Barton Foundation & American Plains Co-op partner for ag complex

Today Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 88. Northeast wind 7 to 13 mph.

Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after&nbsp; 1a.m. Partly. cloudy, with a low around 66. Northeast wind 6 to 10 mph.

Thursday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Southeast wind around 7 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 64. Southeast wind around 7 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. South wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Friday Night A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Saturday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 81. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 77.

Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.

Monday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 78.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 88. Northeast wind 7 to 13 mph.Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after&nbsp; 1a.m. Partly. cloudy, with a low around 66. Northeast wind 6 to 10 mph.Thursday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Southeast wind around 7 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 64. Southeast wind around 7 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. South wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Friday Night A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Saturday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 81. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 77.Sunday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 61.Monday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 78.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 60.Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

Jesus Carbajal spoke at a Great Bend Planning Commission meeting in June
to rezone real estate at 1013 Hubbard Street form R-3 (multi-family) to C-2
(general commercial). Carbajal wants to build a shop on the property that would
store equipment and material inside. 

The Planning Commission approved the
request, and Monday night the Great Bend City Council approved the rezoning with a
4-2 vote. 
Councilmember Jolene Biggs was one of the two votes against the rezoning.


"I personally have a problem with spot changing out these properties from residential to commercial," said Biggs. "I think we're opening ourselves up for a lot of other people wanting to do that. I don't think that's a good idea."

The Hubbard property is just north of 10th Street. Councilman Alan Moeder
countered Biggs saying there is commercial zoning to the south of the property
and all along 10th Street.


"It's right next door to commercial," said Moeder. "I don't think there's a problem having more commercial right there. It isn't like it's affecting anybody...that whole block is for sale. We don't know what's going in there. Whatever goes in there is going to be commercial. So why does right next door matter?"

The rezoning will also allow the property to be cleaned up from the equipment
and material storage that is currently on the lot.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721152149993.jpeg" alt="1013 Hubbard Street" />
 <figcaption>1013 Hubbard Street</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostJesus Carbajal spoke at a Great Bend Planning Commission meeting in June
to rezone real estate at 1013 Hubbard Street form R-3 (multi-family) to C-2
(general commercial). Carbajal wants to build a shop on the property that would
store equipment and material inside. The Planning Commission approved the
request, and Monday night the Great Bend City Council approved the rezoning with a
4-2 vote. 
Councilmember Jolene Biggs was one of the two votes against the rezoning.
"I personally have a problem with spot changing out these properties from residential to commercial," said Biggs. "I think we're opening ourselves up for a lot of other people wanting to do that. I don't think that's a good idea."The Hubbard property is just north of 10th Street. Councilman Alan Moeder
countered Biggs saying there is commercial zoning to the south of the property
and all along 10th Street.
"It's right next door to commercial," said Moeder. "I don't think there's a problem having more commercial right there. It isn't like it's affecting anybody...that whole block is for sale. We don't know what's going in there. Whatever goes in there is going to be commercial. So why does right next door matter?"The rezoning will also allow the property to be cleaned up from the equipment
and material storage that is currently on the lot.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend council approves rezoning property on Hubbard

News from the Oil Patch, July 15 John P. Tretbar

A blockbuster merger moves forward in South America, while another is announced in North Dakota. News reports suggest a breakthrough in the fight between ExxonMobil and Chevron over oil assets off the northeast shore of South America.&nbsp; Reuters reports the two firms have finalized plans for an arbitration panel to address the dispute over Chevron's $53 BILLION purchase of Hess Corp. Chevron and Hess had hoped to complete their merger earlier this year, but now it looks like the dispute will extend into next year.

Devon Energy is spending big bucks to greatly expand its position in North Dakota. The company will shell out $5 BILLION in cash and stock to buy Grayson Mill Energy. Forecast output from the new acreage exceeds 100-thousand barrels a day.

The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is down one oil rig and one gas rig for a total of 584 rigs. The count in Louisiana is up one; Texas is down two rigs.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service shows 30 active rigs statewide including an increase of one rig in Western Kansas. The tally is down six percent from a month ago and 23% lower than a year ago. Drilling continued on a lease in Barton County Friday.

Regulators in the Sunflower State okayed 21 new drilling locations, with eleven in Western Kansas including two new permits in Barton County and one in Ellis County. That's 519 new drilling permits so far this year, down from 666 by this time last year.

Kansas operators completed 23 wells last week. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports seven of them are west of Wichita including one well in Barton County and one in Russell County.

The US imports more crude oil than we export, by more than 2.7 million barrels a day. But, product exports outpace imports by nearly five thousand barrels per day, making the US a net petroleum exporter. Crude exports averaged just short of four thousand barrels per day last week. That's down four-thousand daily barrels from a week ago but nearly double the tally from a year ago. US crude imports averaged 6.8 million barrels a day last week, an increase of 214 thousand daily barrels from the week before. Four-week average imports are up more than five percent from a year ago.

The government reported a huge pre-holiday drawdown in crude-oil inventories. Stockpiles dropped 3.4 million barrels in the week through July 5th. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of just over 445 million barrels, 13 million barrels less than a year ago and four percent below the five-year average. The Energy Department added another half million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. &nbsp;US crude-oil production averaged 13,284,000 barrels per day. That's up 101,000 barrels per day from a week ago and nearly a million barrels a day higher than a year ago.

Global trade in Liquefied Natural Gas grew by more than three percent last year. A government report says increasing natural gas demand and expanding export capacity drove drove a spike in global LNG trade last year. US export capacity was a big driver. The Freeport LNG facility in the Gulf of Mexico returned to service in February last year after being offline since June of the year before. Other nations increasing LNG trade last year were Mozambique, Russia, Indonesia, Norway and Oman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, July 15 John P. TretbarA blockbuster merger moves forward in South America, while another is announced in North Dakota. News reports suggest a breakthrough in the fight between ExxonMobil and Chevron over oil assets off the northeast shore of South America.&nbsp; Reuters reports the two firms have finalized plans for an arbitration panel to address the dispute over Chevron's $53 BILLION purchase of Hess Corp. Chevron and Hess had hoped to complete their merger earlier this year, but now it looks like the dispute will extend into next year.Devon Energy is spending big bucks to greatly expand its position in North Dakota. The company will shell out $5 BILLION in cash and stock to buy Grayson Mill Energy. Forecast output from the new acreage exceeds 100-thousand barrels a day.The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes is down one oil rig and one gas rig for a total of 584 rigs. The count in Louisiana is up one; Texas is down two rigs.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service shows 30 active rigs statewide including an increase of one rig in Western Kansas. The tally is down six percent from a month ago and 23% lower than a year ago. Drilling continued on a lease in Barton County Friday.Regulators in the Sunflower State okayed 21 new drilling locations, with eleven in Western Kansas including two new permits in Barton County and one in Ellis County. That's 519 new drilling permits so far this year, down from 666 by this time last year.Kansas operators completed 23 wells last week. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports seven of them are west of Wichita including one well in Barton County and one in Russell County.The US imports more crude oil than we export, by more than 2.7 million barrels a day. But, product exports outpace imports by nearly five thousand barrels per day, making the US a net petroleum exporter. Crude exports averaged just short of four thousand barrels per day last week. That's down four-thousand daily barrels from a week ago but nearly double the tally from a year ago. US crude imports averaged 6.8 million barrels a day last week, an increase of 214 thousand daily barrels from the week before. Four-week average imports are up more than five percent from a year ago.The government reported a huge pre-holiday drawdown in crude-oil inventories. Stockpiles dropped 3.4 million barrels in the week through July 5th. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of just over 445 million barrels, 13 million barrels less than a year ago and four percent below the five-year average. The Energy Department added another half million barrels to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. &nbsp;US crude-oil production averaged 13,284,000 barrels per day. That's up 101,000 barrels per day from a week ago and nearly a million barrels a day higher than a year ago.Global trade in Liquefied Natural Gas grew by more than three percent last year. A government report says increasing natural gas demand and expanding export capacity drove drove a spike in global LNG trade last year. US export capacity was a big driver. The Freeport LNG facility in the Gulf of Mexico returned to service in February last year after being offline since June of the year before. Other nations increasing LNG trade last year were Mozambique, Russia, Indonesia, Norway and Oman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: ExxonMobil-Chevron fight goes to arbitration

RUSSELL COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 11 a.m. Tuesday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Dodge Neon driven by Christopher T. Ford, 18, Hillsboro, Missouri was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Gorham exit in the passing lane when it caught up to another vehicle. 

The driver moved the car back into the driving lane and struck the rear of the trailer on a 2023 Kenworth semi driven by Frederick A.&nbsp;Mendoza, 58, Tulsa, Oklahoma.

EMS transported For and a passenger Gage L.&nbsp;Ojile, 18, Arnold, Missouri, to the Russell Regional Hospital.&nbsp;Mendoza was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RUSSELL COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 11 a.m. Tuesday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Dodge Neon driven by Christopher T. Ford, 18, Hillsboro, Missouri was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of the Gorham exit in the passing lane when it caught up to another vehicle. The driver moved the car back into the driving lane and struck the rear of the trailer on a 2023 Kenworth semi driven by Frederick A.&nbsp;Mendoza, 58, Tulsa, Oklahoma.EMS transported For and a passenger Gage L.&nbsp;Ojile, 18, Arnold, Missouri, to the Russell Regional Hospital.&nbsp;Mendoza was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Two teens hospitalized after car strikes semi's trailer 

A K-4 resurfacing in Rush County is expected to start around Tuesday, July 23. The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves a scrub seal. The project will be on K-4 from the Ness/Rush county line to the U.S. 183 junction in La Crosse. The length is 21.5 miles. The work is expected to be completed around early August. During the work, traffic will be controlled by a pilot car and flaggers. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes. The map below shows the project location in red. Heft &amp; Sons, of Greensburg, is the primary contractor for the $1,149,603 project. For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kandrive.gov/">www.kandrive.gov</a>.

A K-4 resurfacing in Rush County is expected to start around Tuesday, July 23. The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves a scrub seal. The project will be on K-4 from the Ness/Rush county line to the U.S. 183 junction in La Crosse. The length is 21.5 miles. The work is expected to be completed around early August. During the work, traffic will be controlled by a pilot car and flaggers. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes. The map below shows the project location in red. Heft &amp; Sons, of Greensburg, is the primary contractor for the $1,149,603 project. For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kandrive.gov/">www.kandrive.gov</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721147087284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

K-4 resurfacing is set in Rush County, near La Crosse

Hear the Ask the Expert episode with Eagle Radio's Dakota Tucker and Dr. Kurt Williams from Central Kansas Dentistry in Ellsworth that aired July 9, 2024.

The Central Kansas Dentistry program airs the second Tuesday each month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SPONSOREDHear the Ask the Expert episode with Eagle Radio's Dakota Tucker and Dr. Kurt Williams from Central Kansas Dentistry in Ellsworth that aired July 9, 2024.<div><iframe title="Central Kansas Dentistry July show (sponsored)" 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=9jz2c-166ca02-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Central Kansas Dentistry program airs the second Tuesday each month at 8:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast (Sponsored): Central Kansas Dentistry July show

The Great Bend Recreation Commission announced the 2024 youth softball/baseball champions. (girls)

Girls T-Ball - Flying Unicorns - Head Coach Kyle Leroy

Girls Rookie Ball - Diamond Girls - Head Coach Chris Traylor

Girls Sox League - Cougars - Head Coach Craig Robinson

Girls Shortstop League - Strike Force - Head Coach Rachel Corn

Girls Ponytail League - Bomb Squad - Head Coach Shane Sandberg

The Great Bend Recreation Commission announced the 2024 youth softball/baseball champions. (girls)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721146162448.jpeg" alt="Flying Unicorns" />
 <figcaption>Flying Unicorns</figcaption>
 </figure>Girls T-Ball - Flying Unicorns - Head Coach Kyle Leroy<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721146185488.jpeg" alt="Diamond Girls" />
 <figcaption>Diamond Girls</figcaption>
 </figure>Girls Rookie Ball - Diamond Girls - Head Coach Chris Traylor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721146208926.jpeg" alt="Cougars" />
 <figcaption>Cougars</figcaption>
 </figure>Girls Sox League - Cougars - Head Coach Craig Robinson<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721146230309.jpeg" alt="Strike Force" />
 <figcaption>Strike Force</figcaption>
 </figure>Girls Shortstop League - Strike Force - Head Coach Rachel Corn<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721146253269.jpeg" alt="Bomb Squad" />
 <figcaption>Bomb Squad</figcaption>
 </figure>Girls Ponytail League - Bomb Squad - Head Coach Shane Sandberg

📷Great Bend Rec youth softball champions (girls)

Russell County Sheriff's Department

On July 12th at about 10:15 a.m. the Russell County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the 300 block of north Kansas Avenue in Luray for an animal welfare check.

Arriving on scene, the sheriff’s Office became aware of several animals in an abandoned house that appeared to be in distress.  The owners of the animals were identified, and contact was made.

Further investigation led the Sheriff’s Office to become aware that the animals were in danger and very stressed because of the severe heat conditions and the apparent health concerns that the animals presented. 

 Contact was made with Golden Belt Humane Society in Great Bend, which arrived at the location to assist the Sheriff’s Office in capturing and taking care of the animals.

The animals were then transported to Golden Belt Humane Society and Ark Valley Veterinary Hospital located in Great Bend for further treatment and evaluation.

This is an active investigation, people of interest in this investigation have been identified.

Names will not be released until this investigation is completed and has been reviewed by the Russell County Attorney’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Golden Belt Humane Society for their swift response and professionalism while assisting the Sheriff’s Office. 

 The Sheriff’s Office would also like to thank Ark Valley Veterinary Hospital for assisting in the care and housing of these animals.

— Andrew L. Van Der Wege, Russell County Sheriff

Russell County Sheriff's DepartmentOn July 12th at about 10:15 a.m. the Russell County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the 300 block of north Kansas Avenue in Luray for an animal welfare check.Arriving on scene, the sheriff’s Office became aware of several animals in an abandoned house that appeared to be in distress. The owners of the animals were identified, and contact was made.Further investigation led the Sheriff’s Office to become aware that the animals were in danger and very stressed because of the severe heat conditions and the apparent health concerns that the animals presented. Contact was made with Golden Belt Humane Society in Great Bend, which arrived at the location to assist the Sheriff’s Office in capturing and taking care of the animals.The animals were then transported to Golden Belt Humane Society and Ark Valley Veterinary Hospital located in Great Bend for further treatment and evaluation.This is an active investigation, people of interest in this investigation have been identified.Names will not be released until this investigation is completed and has been reviewed by the Russell County Attorney’s Office.The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Golden Belt Humane Society for their swift response and professionalism while assisting the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office would also like to thank Ark Valley Veterinary Hospital for assisting in the care and housing of these animals.— Andrew L. Van Der Wege, Russell County Sheriff

Russell County Sheriff seizes animals in heat distress

From the Larned Area Chamber of Commerce...

There is a change going on in downtown Larned. Check out the two new murals on the north side of the old Alco building and the west side of Chromotize. 

 These murals were made possible by a grant pursued by Landon Erway, Larned Area Chamber and Economic Development  Board President.  The grant was for $7,500 and through the Rural Prosperity office. 

 We want to keep the ball rolling.  If you would like to have a mural at your location or make a donation contact the Larned Area Chamber office at 620-285-6916.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721139684989.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the Larned Area Chamber of Commerce...There is a change going on in downtown Larned. Check out the two new murals on the north side of the old Alco building and the west side of Chromotize. These murals were made possible by a grant pursued by Landon Erway, Larned Area Chamber and Economic Development Board President. The grant was for $7,500 and through the Rural Prosperity office. We want to keep the ball rolling. If you would like to have a mural at your location or make a donation contact the Larned Area Chamber office at 620-285-6916.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721139722708.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Two new murals in downtown Larned

Cottonwood Extension District brought the diabetes education program Dining with Diabetes to Ellis County for the first time in June. Monique Koerner and Karissa Winkel, Family and Community Wellness Agents were trained in 2023 and introduced the program to Hays last month.

Dining with Diabetes is a national extension program provided to Kansans by K-State Research and Extension Family and Consumer Sciences professionals and community health partners. The program is a series of four, 2-hour classes that are held once a week. Classes consist of a presentation on diabetes self-care or healthful food choices; presentations on tasty, healthy familiar foods, sampling foods, and demonstrations of cooking techniques using artificial sweeteners, reduced-fat foods, herbs, and spices.

The class in Hays had 8 attendees which was a really nice size for our first group of participants. Some of the participants knew each other and others met for the first time. However, they all had something in common. They were dealing with diabetes management for themselves or with a loved one.

In addition to the education aspect of the program, the group cooked together which really helped them get to know each other. Hopefully by actually cooking meals that are designed specifically for diabetics they got the hands-on practice that gave them the confidence to try more healthy meals at home. Participants received a book of recipes that have been created for diabetics. One participant noted how much better she felt after eating the healthy recipes. Another participant was surprised to find out she could still eat foods she thought were taboo or felt she had to eliminate from her diet.

Another aspect of diabetes that isn’t often discussed are the feelings around being diagnosed and managing diabetes. Sometimes it can be overwhelming. However, one of the participants felt that being able to share feelings with other diabetics was helpful. She felt supported which in turn helped her to make changes in her nutritional life and motivated to start taking better care of herself.

Extension also partners with local agencies such as health departments, hospitals, and dieticians to answer questions that may require a health care provider knowledge. In June, we had Kalee Lundmark, Registered Dietician, serve as our expert guest speaker. Kalee provided more specific information around nutrition, resources, and medications.

Part of the Dining with Diabetes program includes a 3 month follow up class for participants to share about their progress and challenges since taking the class. That class is planned for the first part of October.

Cottonwood Extension District will be offering Dining with Diabetes later this year in Barton County. Watch for details this fall.

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.&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Cottonwood Extension District brought the diabetes education program Dining with Diabetes to Ellis County for the first time in June. Monique Koerner and Karissa Winkel, Family and Community Wellness Agents were trained in 2023 and introduced the program to Hays last month.Dining with Diabetes is a national extension program provided to Kansans by K-State Research and Extension Family and Consumer Sciences professionals and community health partners. The program is a series of four, 2-hour classes that are held once a week. Classes consist of a presentation on diabetes self-care or healthful food choices; presentations on tasty, healthy familiar foods, sampling foods, and demonstrations of cooking techniques using artificial sweeteners, reduced-fat foods, herbs, and spices.The class in Hays had 8 attendees which was a really nice size for our first group of participants. Some of the participants knew each other and others met for the first time. However, they all had something in common. They were dealing with diabetes management for themselves or with a loved one.In addition to the education aspect of the program, the group cooked together which really helped them get to know each other. Hopefully by actually cooking meals that are designed specifically for diabetics they got the hands-on practice that gave them the confidence to try more healthy meals at home. Participants received a book of recipes that have been created for diabetics. One participant noted how much better she felt after eating the healthy recipes. Another participant was surprised to find out she could still eat foods she thought were taboo or felt she had to eliminate from her diet.Another aspect of diabetes that isn’t often discussed are the feelings around being diagnosed and managing diabetes. Sometimes it can be overwhelming. However, one of the participants felt that being able to share feelings with other diabetics was helpful. She felt supported which in turn helped her to make changes in her nutritional life and motivated to start taking better care of herself.Extension also partners with local agencies such as health departments, hospitals, and dieticians to answer questions that may require a health care provider knowledge. In June, we had Kalee Lundmark, Registered Dietician, serve as our expert guest speaker. Kalee provided more specific information around nutrition, resources, and medications.Part of the Dining with Diabetes program includes a 3 month follow up class for participants to share about their progress and challenges since taking the class. That class is planned for the first part of October.Cottonwood Extension District will be offering Dining with Diabetes later this year in Barton County. Watch for details this fall.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.&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Dining with diabetes wrap-up

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

For all intents and purposes, many local elections are determined in the primary election. This year's Republican and Democratic primary elections are scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6. In-person voting in Kansas may begin as early as July 17, and Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler said her office plans to be open for voting that morning. 

"We are back in the courthouse, second floor, room 202," she said. "We have our new voting booths we were able to implement with the Elections Security Grant we received from the state. Early voting will continue until Aug. 5 at noon. That is when we have to stop by law."

The clerk's office will be open for voting from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Schmeidler hopes to have voting machines up and running by 8 a.m. on Wednesday, July 17, but encourages early voters that morning to contact her office at (620) 793-1835 prior to arrival to ensure voting has started.

"On Saturday, Aug. 3, we also be here from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for voting," Schmeidler said. "If anybody can't make it during the week, we will have that Saturday option."

A valid photo identification is required to vote. The primary election is only for Republican and Democratic candidates. The deadline for voters to change party affiliation was June 3, but unaffiliated voters may still declare a party at the polling place and vote that ballot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719948041742.jpeg" alt="Early voting for the Aug. 6 primary election is set to begin Wednesday morning at the Barton County Clerk's Office in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Early voting for the Aug. 6 primary election is set to begin Wednesday morning at the Barton County Clerk's Office in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFor all intents and purposes, many local elections are determined in the primary election. This year's Republican and Democratic primary elections are scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6. In-person voting in Kansas may begin as early as July 17, and Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler said her office plans to be open for voting that morning. "We are back in the courthouse, second floor, room 202," she said. "We have our new voting booths we were able to implement with the Elections Security Grant we received from the state. Early voting will continue until Aug. 5 at noon. That is when we have to stop by law."The clerk's office will be open for voting from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Schmeidler hopes to have voting machines up and running by 8 a.m. on Wednesday, July 17, but encourages early voters that morning to contact her office at (620) 793-1835 prior to arrival to ensure voting has started."On Saturday, Aug. 3, we also be here from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for voting," Schmeidler said. "If anybody can't make it during the week, we will have that Saturday option."A valid photo identification is required to vote. The primary election is only for Republican and Democratic candidates. The deadline for voters to change party affiliation was June 3, but unaffiliated voters may still declare a party at the polling place and vote that ballot.

Early voting in Barton County set to begin on Wednesday

From the City of Russell... Update 6:46 p.m.

Our system experienced a fault impacting customers from N. Lincoln to N. Fossil and East 8th Street to Wichita Avenue. Crews are enroute.

To replace three power poles broken during last night's severe wind, crews will need to cut power that will impact customers from Luray Street south, including rural customers. The outage will occur approximately 2:30 pm and last 15 minutes. Thank you for your patience and understanding while our crews work safely to repair the damage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We still have approximately 20 customers without power across our service area for various reasons, tree limbs fell into service lines, blown fuses or other.  Crews continue to work on those. 

Crews just completed rebuilding the line (down power poles and power lines) impacting customers from S. Ash to S. Lincoln from W. Wichita to Aurora Drive.  Power to those customers should be restored momentarily. 

 Thank you again for your patience. The severe thunderstorm that rolled through early this morning caused numerous broken poles and down power lines.  We shut down Wichita Avenue for a while due to down lines.  Crews had a majority of customers restored by 5 am.  Approximately 39 customers remain without power. The majority of those are between S Ash and S Lincoln from Aurora Drive to W Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721140269383.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Russell... Update 6:46 p.m.Our system experienced a fault impacting customers from N. Lincoln to N. Fossil and East 8th Street to Wichita Avenue. Crews are enroute.Update 2:16 p.m.To replace three power poles broken during last night's severe wind, crews will need to cut power that will impact customers from Luray Street south, including rural customers. The outage will occur approximately 2:30 pm and last 15 minutes. Thank you for your patience and understanding while our crews work safely to repair the damage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Update 8:15 a.m.We still have approximately 20 customers without power across our service area for various reasons, tree limbs fell into service lines, blown fuses or other. Crews continue to work on those. Update 7:55 a.m.Crews just completed rebuilding the line (down power poles and power lines) impacting customers from S. Ash to S. Lincoln from W. Wichita to Aurora Drive. Power to those customers should be restored momentarily. Thank you again for your patience. The severe thunderstorm that rolled through early this morning caused numerous broken poles and down power lines. We shut down Wichita Avenue for a while due to down lines. Crews had a majority of customers restored by 5 am. Approximately 39 customers remain without power. The majority of those are between S Ash and S Lincoln from Aurora Drive to W Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Russell crews work to restore power after storm

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/15)

At 1:38 a.m. an accident was reported at 541 NW K-96
Highway.

At 4:34 a.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
614 E. Lakeview Dr.

At 9:02 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1500
block of NE 50 Avenue in Claflin.

At 11:40 a.m. the K-9 was called out to the 500 block of SW
50 Avenue.

At 2:12 p.m. a sick person was reported at 68 SE 20 Road.

At 3:39 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 44 NE 60
Road.

At 5:46 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at K-156 &amp;
NE 130 Avenue in Claflin.

At 8:55 p.m. a theft was reported at 511 E. Santa Fe Blvd in
Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (7/15)

At 6:51 a.m. a sick person was reported at 800 10th
Street.

At 7:41 a.m. a sick person was reported at 5957 Eisenhower
Avenue.

At 9:53 a.m. a water leak was reported at 619 Main.

At 10:19 a.m. several ducks trying to cross the roadway was
reported in the 3900 block of 10th Street.

At 10:35 a.m. theft of a bike was reported at 811 Grant
Street.

At 11:08 a.m. people messing with a momma and baby ducks in
the area was reported at 3929 10th Street.

At 12:11 p.m. someone damaging a window on his residence was
reported at 1401 20th Street.

At 3:27 p.m. a water leak was reported at 1110 Main.

At 3:49 p.m. an accident was reported at 1609 Heizer.

At 5:45 p.m. an unrestrained juvenile was reported at 10th
&amp; McKinley.

At 10:08 p.m. a possible criminal threat was reported at
1215 Stone.

At 10:56 p.m. K-9 Niko was utilized on a Barton County
Sheriff’s Office traffic stop at 5540 2nd Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (7/15)Injury AccidentAt 1:38 a.m. an accident was reported at 541 NW K-96
Highway.Unconscious / FaintingAt 4:34 a.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
614 E. Lakeview Dr.Cattle OutAt 9:02 a.m. a report of cattle out was made in the 1500
block of NE 50 Avenue in Claflin.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 11:40 a.m. the K-9 was called out to the 500 block of SW
50 Avenue.Sick PersonAt 2:12 p.m. a sick person was reported at 68 SE 20 Road.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 3:39 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 44 NE 60
Road.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:46 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at K-156 &amp;
NE 130 Avenue in Claflin.TheftAt 8:55 p.m. a theft was reported at 511 E. Santa Fe Blvd in
Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (7/15)Sick PersonAt 6:51 a.m. a sick person was reported at 800 10th
Street.At 7:41 a.m. a sick person was reported at 5957 Eisenhower
Avenue.Utility ProblemsAt 9:53 a.m. a water leak was reported at 619 Main.Animal ComplaintAt 10:19 a.m. several ducks trying to cross the roadway was
reported in the 3900 block of 10th Street.TheftAt 10:35 a.m. theft of a bike was reported at 811 Grant
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 11:08 a.m. people messing with a momma and baby ducks in
the area was reported at 3929 10th Street.Criminal DamageAt 12:11 p.m. someone damaging a window on his residence was
reported at 1401 20th Street.Utility ProblemsAt 3:27 p.m. a water leak was reported at 1110 Main.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:49 p.m. an accident was reported at 1609 Heizer.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:45 p.m. an unrestrained juvenile was reported at 10th
&amp; McKinley.Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 10:08 p.m. a possible criminal threat was reported at
1215 Stone.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 10:56 p.m. K-9 Niko was utilized on a Barton County
Sheriff’s Office traffic stop at 5540 2nd Street.

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