By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Last week, Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson submitted his
resignation, giving the city a 30-day notice. Hired last summer, Anderson’s
stay with the city was just over a year. He had a chance to publicly address
the Great Bend City Council at Monday's meeting for the first time stating the
decision was based on personal reasons.


"On a personal note, I'd like to thank the council, city staff and citizens of Great Bend," said Anderson. "I apologize my stint here was short, but I also have come to believe that life is short. COVID taught me that many things can easily be taken away."

Anderson’s final day with the city will be Aug. 9. Prior to coming
to Great Bend, Anderson spent 27 years in Texas, including his last stop as city
manager for the City of Levelland, Texas.

"Thanks again for making my short stint here very rewarding," added Anderson.

Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns served as interim administrator from
December 2022 to July 2023 prior to Anderson’s official start. The council will discuss Anderson's replacement at the meeting on Aug. 5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721092012316.jpeg" alt="Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson addressed the council Monday, July 15, 2024 after submitting his resignation last week." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson addressed the council Monday, July 15, 2024 after submitting his resignation last week.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLast week, Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson submitted his
resignation, giving the city a 30-day notice. Hired last summer, Anderson’s
stay with the city was just over a year. He had a chance to publicly address
the Great Bend City Council at Monday's meeting for the first time stating the
decision was based on personal reasons.
"On a personal note, I'd like to thank the council, city staff and citizens of Great Bend," said Anderson. "I apologize my stint here was short, but I also have come to believe that life is short. COVID taught me that many things can easily be taken away."Anderson’s final day with the city will be Aug. 9. Prior to coming
to Great Bend, Anderson spent 27 years in Texas, including his last stop as city
manager for the City of Levelland, Texas."Thanks again for making my short stint here very rewarding," added Anderson.Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns served as interim administrator from
December 2022 to July 2023 prior to Anderson’s official start. The council will discuss Anderson's replacement at the meeting on Aug. 5.

Great Bend Administrator apologizes for short stint in position

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/48PygVX. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting July 16&nbsp; -&nbsp; 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the July 9, 2024, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of July 2, 2024, and ending July 16, 2024.

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

IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. 20th JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUVENILE SERVICES: Fiscal Year 2024 Year End Outcomes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, will provide details. The Kansas Department of Corrections provides grants to Kansas Counties to develop and maintain a range of programs for juvenile offenders. As a part of that grant funding, Juvenile Services is expected to meet certain outcomes as delineated in service provisions. The Year-End Outcomes Report sets out the results at the fiscal year's close and requires the review and approval of the Barton County Commissioners as the Administrative County for the District.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Fiscal Year 2024 Year-End Outcomes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Woodmansee and Brooke Haulmark, CKCC Director, will provide details. The Kansas Department of Corrections provides grant funding to local judicial districts to work with high-risk offenders and assist in appropriate interventions to lower recidivism. The Year-End Outcomes Report sets out the results at the fiscal year's close and requires the review and approval of the Barton County Commissioners as the Administrative County for the District.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Enhanced Funding for Fiscal Year 2025: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Haulmark will provide details. CKCC seeks approval of the Enhanced Funding for Fiscal Year 2025 in the amount of $136,693.21. If approved, this funding will allow for a full-time support staff and an overall increase to operating expenses.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the&nbsp;day. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials have been invited to attend the Ellinwood After Harvest Festival Mayor’s Luncheon beginning at Noon, Saturday, July 20, 2024. The event will be held at the Grove Park Golf Course, 407 W 3rd, Ellinwood, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Staffing issues – Karen Winkelman, Public Health Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:00 a.m. – Rural Opportunity Zone Discussion – Jason Murray, Golden Belt Community Foundation. – jason@goldenbeltcf.org

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Budget Request – Barton County Historical Society.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. – Budget Request – Dena Popp, 911 Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. – Department Visit to include Recycling Grant Update – Solid Waste at the Solid Waste Facility, 350 NE 30 Road, Great Bend, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1:30 p.m. – Regular Business and Continuing Budget Discussion in the Commission Chambers – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Health Department are scheduled for July 18, 2024.

VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720201754221.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/48PygVX. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting July 16&nbsp; -&nbsp; 9 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the July 9, 2024, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of July 2, 2024, and ending July 16, 2024.III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. 20th JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUVENILE SERVICES: Fiscal Year 2024 Year End Outcomes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, will provide details. The Kansas Department of Corrections provides grants to Kansas Counties to develop and maintain a range of programs for juvenile offenders. As a part of that grant funding, Juvenile Services is expected to meet certain outcomes as delineated in service provisions. The Year-End Outcomes Report sets out the results at the fiscal year's close and requires the review and approval of the Barton County Commissioners as the Administrative County for the District.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Fiscal Year 2024 Year-End Outcomes: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Woodmansee and Brooke Haulmark, CKCC Director, will provide details. The Kansas Department of Corrections provides grant funding to local judicial districts to work with high-risk offenders and assist in appropriate interventions to lower recidivism. The Year-End Outcomes Report sets out the results at the fiscal year's close and requires the review and approval of the Barton County Commissioners as the Administrative County for the District.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Enhanced Funding for Fiscal Year 2025: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Haulmark will provide details. CKCC seeks approval of the Enhanced Funding for Fiscal Year 2025 in the amount of $136,693.21. If approved, this funding will allow for a full-time support staff and an overall increase to operating expenses.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the&nbsp;day. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials have been invited to attend the Ellinwood After Harvest Festival Mayor’s Luncheon beginning at Noon, Saturday, July 20, 2024. The event will be held at the Grove Park Golf Course, 407 W 3rd, Ellinwood, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Staffing issues – Karen Winkelman, Public Health Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:00 a.m. – Rural Opportunity Zone Discussion – Jason Murray, Golden Belt Community Foundation. – jason@goldenbeltcf.org&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Budget Request – Barton County Historical Society.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. – Budget Request – Dena Popp, 911 Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. – Department Visit to include Recycling Grant Update – Solid Waste at the Solid Waste Facility, 350 NE 30 Road, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1:30 p.m. – Regular Business and Continuing Budget Discussion in the Commission Chambers – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Health Department are scheduled for July 18, 2024.VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 23, 2024.VII. ADJOURN

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (7/16)

City of Great Bend crews will begin work on the storm box at the corner of 29th&nbsp;and Washington on Tuesday, July 16. Expect to have minimal disruption to traffic in the area during working hours. Work in the area will take approximately three weeks to complete. Please be attentive in the area and we apologize for any inconvenience as we work.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695917677551.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Great Bend...City of Great Bend crews will begin work on the storm box at the corner of 29th&nbsp;and Washington on Tuesday, July 16. Expect to have minimal disruption to traffic in the area during working hours. Work in the area will take approximately three weeks to complete. Please be attentive in the area and we apologize for any inconvenience as we work.If you have any questions or concerns, contact&nbsp;Jason Cauley, Public Works Director, (620) 793-4150 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jcauley@greatbendks.net">jcauley@greatbendks.net</a>.

Work to begin at 29th & Washington in Great Bend

Resurfacing will begin soon on K-14 in Rice County.

The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves a milling and hot-mix-asphalt overlay on K-14 from about a quarter of a mile north of Avenue T to the south city limits of Lyons. The length is about 6 miles.

The work is expected to begin around July 24&nbsp;and be completed around mid-August, with the work beginning north of Avenue T.

During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and expect up to a 15-minute delay.

The map below shows the approximate project location.

Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor for the $1,857,293 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.org/">www.kandrive.gov</a>.

Resurfacing will begin soon on K-14 in Rice County.The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves a milling and hot-mix-asphalt overlay on K-14 from about a quarter of a mile north of Avenue T to the south city limits of Lyons. The length is about 6 miles.The work is expected to begin around July 24&nbsp;and be completed around mid-August, with the work beginning north of Avenue T.During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and expect up to a 15-minute delay.The map below shows the approximate project location.Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor for the $1,857,293 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.org/">www.kandrive.gov</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721066568793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

K-14 resurfacing to begin in Rice County

The pediatrics care team at The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend welcomes Dianna Holguin, APRN, FNP-C.

“I am happy to care for the children of Great Bend,” Holguin said. “This is my hometown. I was born and raised here.”

Holguin earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University in Minneapolis. She worked as a registered nurse before becoming a nurse practitioner.

“I became a nurse practitioner because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of my patients,” Holguin said. “My goal is to treat all my patients with respect, dignity, care and compassion.”

She is married with two sons, and when she’s not working, she likes to spend time with family, watch her boys play sports and travel.

To schedule an appointment with Holguin or any member of the pediatrics care team, call 620-792-5437.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721051872817.jpeg" alt="Dianna Holguin, APRN, FNP-C" />
 <figcaption>Dianna Holguin, APRN, FNP-C</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSThe pediatrics care team at The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend welcomes Dianna Holguin, APRN, FNP-C.“I am happy to care for the children of Great Bend,” Holguin said. “This is my hometown. I was born and raised here.”Holguin earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University in Minneapolis. She worked as a registered nurse before becoming a nurse practitioner.“I became a nurse practitioner because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of my patients,” Holguin said. “My goal is to treat all my patients with respect, dignity, care and compassion.”She is married with two sons, and when she’s not working, she likes to spend time with family, watch her boys play sports and travel.To schedule an appointment with Holguin or any member of the pediatrics care team, call 620-792-5437.

Nurse practitioner joins pediatrics care team in Great Bend

Bicycling is a great activity for children. It increases coordination and improves physical health. It can also give children a sense of independence and provide the opportunity to socialize with others outdoors.

With that being said, bicycling isn’t a risk-free activity. In fact, according to Stanford Medicine, about 254 thousand children suffer bicycle-related injuries each year. For this reason, it’s important to educate children about bike safety practices. You can do your part as a parent or guardian by keeping a watchful eye and offering instructions when needed. Here are a few bike safety guidelines:

First and foremost, always wear a helmet! It’s a simple practice that can reduce the risk of injury including concussions. Make sure the helmet is damage-free and that it fits properly.

Wearing reflective gear or bright-colored clothing is smart for anyone riding a bicycle, including children. Bright colors help to increase visibility, especially in areas with high traffic.

Make sure the bike is correctly sized. Riding on a bike that is too big or small can make pedaling and balance difficult. This can result in falls and injuries. As the child grows, be sure to raise the seat and make other adjustments as needed.

It’s also important to maintain bikes by keeping tires inflated, oiling the chain regularly, tightening handlebars and seats as needed, and checking the brakes.

These are just a few tips that can prevent injury and save lives! If you would like your child to learn more about bicycle safety, register them for the Barton County BeWell Bike Rodeo on Saturday, July 20th. Kids ages 5-12 years can bring their bikes to the Central Baptist Church in Great Bend to practice skills and learn how to become better bicyclists. The event is from 8-9 am. Please call 620-793-1910 to register!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Bicycling is a great activity for children. It increases coordination and improves physical health. It can also give children a sense of independence and provide the opportunity to socialize with others outdoors.With that being said, bicycling isn’t a risk-free activity. In fact, according to Stanford Medicine, about 254 thousand children suffer bicycle-related injuries each year. For this reason, it’s important to educate children about bike safety practices. You can do your part as a parent or guardian by keeping a watchful eye and offering instructions when needed. Here are a few bike safety guidelines:First and foremost, always wear a helmet! It’s a simple practice that can reduce the risk of injury including concussions. Make sure the helmet is damage-free and that it fits properly.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721054168150.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wearing reflective gear or bright-colored clothing is smart for anyone riding a bicycle, including children. Bright colors help to increase visibility, especially in areas with high traffic.Make sure the bike is correctly sized. Riding on a bike that is too big or small can make pedaling and balance difficult. This can result in falls and injuries. As the child grows, be sure to raise the seat and make other adjustments as needed.It’s also important to maintain bikes by keeping tires inflated, oiling the chain regularly, tightening handlebars and seats as needed, and checking the brakes.These are just a few tips that can prevent injury and save lives! If you would like your child to learn more about bicycle safety, register them for the Barton County BeWell Bike Rodeo on Saturday, July 20th. Kids ages 5-12 years can bring their bikes to the Central Baptist Church in Great Bend to practice skills and learn how to become better bicyclists. The event is from 8-9 am. Please call 620-793-1910 to register!Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Bicycle safety 101

Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) announced the receipt of $394,000 from the Patterson Family Foundation Thriving Rural Grant program. The grant funds will allow GBED to purchase equipment and furnishings for the IGNITE Innovation Center, a multi-purpose community facility that will provide essential resources to the Barton County area.&nbsp;

"We are excited to bring this one-of-a-kind center to Barton County,” said Sara Arnberger, president of GBED. “With expanded licensed child care slots, increased high-speed internet access, and programs that enhance workforce development, education, and health care needs, the IGNITE Innovation Center enhances our ability to support the needs of our community.”&nbsp;

This center will include overnight child care facilities to help accommodate workers with shift-based employment, a maker space for entrepreneurship, a workforce resource center, and an area designated for health screening services.&nbsp;IGNITE Innovation Center project collaborators include The University of Kansas Health System, KansasWorks, Barton Community College, and Advancing Barton County Childcare (ABCC).&nbsp;

“Together with the project partners and collaborators, we will introduce services that are currently unavailable in the region, supporting the local community's growth and development,” said Arnberger. “This holistic approach aims to meet the diverse needs of the community and promote a thriving rural environment.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Economic Development (GBED) announced the receipt of $394,000 from the Patterson Family Foundation Thriving Rural Grant program. The grant funds will allow GBED to purchase equipment and furnishings for the IGNITE Innovation Center, a multi-purpose community facility that will provide essential resources to the Barton County area.&nbsp;"We are excited to bring this one-of-a-kind center to Barton County,” said Sara Arnberger, president of GBED. “With expanded licensed child care slots, increased high-speed internet access, and programs that enhance workforce development, education, and health care needs, the IGNITE Innovation Center enhances our ability to support the needs of our community.”&nbsp;This center will include overnight child care facilities to help accommodate workers with shift-based employment, a maker space for entrepreneurship, a workforce resource center, and an area designated for health screening services.&nbsp;IGNITE Innovation Center project collaborators include The University of Kansas Health System, KansasWorks, Barton Community College, and Advancing Barton County Childcare (ABCC).&nbsp;“Together with the project partners and collaborators, we will introduce services that are currently unavailable in the region, supporting the local community's growth and development,” said Arnberger. “This holistic approach aims to meet the diverse needs of the community and promote a thriving rural environment.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Eco Devo receives grant for Innovation Center project

7/12 BOOKED: Luis Martinez-Ochoa on Barton County District Court case for DUI and No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Venessa Armstrong on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on Herington Municipal Court warrant, bond set at $250 C/S.

BOOKED: Garrett Barnett on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Caden McGee on Barton County District Court case for Flee and Elude, No Registration, No Insurance, and No Motorcycle Endorsement, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Aaron Clark on Ellsworth County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Daniel Gomez-Montelongo on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License and No Insurance, bond set at $1,000 C/S on on ICE detainer.

RELEASED: Luis Martinez-Ochoa on Barton County District Court case for DUI and No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Harley Truan on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, and on five Morris County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, to another agency.

RELEASED: Shannon Ybarra on three Barton County District Court cases, after time served.

RELEASED: Caden McGee on Barton County District Court case for Flee and Elude, No Registration, No Insurance, and No Motorcycle Endorsement, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Savanna Bradshaw on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Aaron Clark on Ellsworth County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

7/13 BOOKED: Joseph Depiesse on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Shawn Taylor on Stafford County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Mikal Trevino on Rush County District Court case for DUI, Possession of THC, and Failure to Maintain Lane, bond set at $1,250 C/S.

BOOKED: Cary Gottschalk on Rush County District Court case for DUI and Transporting Open Container, bond set at $1,250 C/S.

BOOKED: Andrew Moran on Rush County District Court case for Burglary, Harassment by Telecom, Stalking, and Stalking Child Under 14, bond set at $60,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Victor Gallegos-Garcia on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Trespass, bond set at $500 C/S or 48-hour OR.

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

RELEASED: Emily Bond on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Mikal Trevino on Rush County District Court case for DUI, Possession of THC, and Failure to Maintain Lane, after posting $1,250 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Cary Gottschalk on Rush County District Court case for DUI and Transporting Open Container, after posting $,1250 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

7/14 BOOKED: Shannon Elmore on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $200 cash only.

BOOKED: Justin Bond on Rush County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Violence of Protection Order, bond set at $20,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Adyn Haines on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Trespass, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

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

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

RELEASED: Shannon Elmore on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $200 cash bond.

RELEASED: Jesus Leyva Jr. on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Shawn Taylor on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Justin Bond on Rush County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Violence of Protection Order, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Garrett Barnett on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Charles Buck Jr. on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Jeffrey Shelor on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>7/12 BOOKED: Luis Martinez-Ochoa on Barton County District Court case for DUI and No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Venessa Armstrong on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on Herington Municipal Court warrant, bond set at $250 C/S.BOOKED: Garrett Barnett on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Caden McGee on Barton County District Court case for Flee and Elude, No Registration, No Insurance, and No Motorcycle Endorsement, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Aaron Clark on Ellsworth County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Daniel Gomez-Montelongo on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License and No Insurance, bond set at $1,000 C/S on on ICE detainer.RELEASED: Luis Martinez-Ochoa on Barton County District Court case for DUI and No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Harley Truan on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, and on five Morris County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, to another agency.RELEASED: Shannon Ybarra on three Barton County District Court cases, after time served.RELEASED: Caden McGee on Barton County District Court case for Flee and Elude, No Registration, No Insurance, and No Motorcycle Endorsement, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Savanna Bradshaw on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Aaron Clark on Ellsworth County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.7/13 BOOKED: Joseph Depiesse on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Shawn Taylor on Stafford County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Mikal Trevino on Rush County District Court case for DUI, Possession of THC, and Failure to Maintain Lane, bond set at $1,250 C/S.BOOKED: Cary Gottschalk on Rush County District Court case for DUI and Transporting Open Container, bond set at $1,250 C/S.BOOKED: Andrew Moran on Rush County District Court case for Burglary, Harassment by Telecom, Stalking, and Stalking Child Under 14, bond set at $60,000 C/S.BOOKED: Victor Gallegos-Garcia on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Trespass, bond set at $500 C/S or 48-hour OR.RELEASED: Joseph Depiesse on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Emily Bond on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Mikal Trevino on Rush County District Court case for DUI, Possession of THC, and Failure to Maintain Lane, after posting $1,250 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Cary Gottschalk on Rush County District Court case for DUI and Transporting Open Container, after posting $,1250 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.7/14 BOOKED: Shannon Elmore on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $200 cash only.BOOKED: Justin Bond on Rush County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Violence of Protection Order, bond set at $20,000 C/S.BOOKED: Adyn Haines on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Criminal Trespass, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jeffrey Shelor on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Aaron Turbeville on Barton County District Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Shannon Elmore on Hoisington Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $200 cash bond.RELEASED: Jesus Leyva Jr. on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Shawn Taylor on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Justin Bond on Rush County District Court case for Aggravated Domestic Battery and Violence of Protection Order, after posting $20,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Garrett Barnett on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Charles Buck Jr. on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Jeffrey Shelor on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (7/12 - 7/14)

Usually when Barton Community College Construction Technology Instructor
Matt Mazouch talks with local contractors, they ask Mazouch if he has any
students interested in working for their business. Skilled trade jobs, like
carpentry or plumbing, are in high demand. 

At Barton, the college offers a
construction technology program where students meet from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. each
class. Once the semester ends, the student is equipped with knowledge on
carpentry, concrete, roofing and siding.


"The earlier classes are a little more classroom based," said Mazouch. "We're doing approximately 75% classroom work in the beginning. At the end we're doing 75% to 90% hands-on work. As a class, we pick at least one big project or multiple small projects."

Mazouch said he has students that sign up for the course to gain knowledge to
fix their own homes. Others want to enter the workforce immediately after
completing the program and some want to know the basics before pursuing
engineering or construction management degrees. 

Students have participated in
projects each semester such as constructing the press box at the Barton
softball field or creating a driving range structure for the golf team.


"There's a driving range for the golf team that's been there a while," said Mazouch. "We just put a building over the top of it with a canopy to cover the golfers. They can practice in any weather. It has an inside portion where they can hit in the winter that will be heated. They can practice year round."

Degree maps and certificate programs through Barton can be found at <a href="https://bartonccc.edu/">bartonccc.edu</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Listen below to the interview with Mazouch on Cougar Pause that aired on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719340369134.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostUsually when Barton Community College Construction Technology Instructor
Matt Mazouch talks with local contractors, they ask Mazouch if he has any
students interested in working for their business. Skilled trade jobs, like
carpentry or plumbing, are in high demand. At Barton, the college offers a
construction technology program where students meet from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. each
class. Once the semester ends, the student is equipped with knowledge on
carpentry, concrete, roofing and siding.
"The earlier classes are a little more classroom based," said Mazouch. "We're doing approximately 75% classroom work in the beginning. At the end we're doing 75% to 90% hands-on work. As a class, we pick at least one big project or multiple small projects."Mazouch said he has students that sign up for the course to gain knowledge to
fix their own homes. Others want to enter the workforce immediately after
completing the program and some want to know the basics before pursuing
engineering or construction management degrees. Students have participated in
projects each semester such as constructing the press box at the Barton
softball field or creating a driving range structure for the golf team.
"There's a driving range for the golf team that's been there a while," said Mazouch. "We just put a building over the top of it with a canopy to cover the golfers. They can practice in any weather. It has an inside portion where they can hit in the winter that will be heated. They can practice year round."Degree maps and certificate programs through Barton can be found at <a href="https://bartonccc.edu/">bartonccc.edu</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Listen below to the interview with Mazouch on Cougar Pause that aired on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.<div><iframe title="Cougar Pause: Barton CC Construction Tech instructor Matt Mazouch" 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=n8yg9-164f9da-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>

Barton students getting hands-on experience with construction

To cover medical expenses in case an athlete gets injured, Barton
Community College purchases athletic insurance each year. The athletic
insurance has been fairly stable the last few years, but that is changing for
the 2024-2025 season. 

Working on a three-year cycle with insurance companies,
claims were higher the past two years at the college. Barton Vice President of
Administration Mark Dean said the lowest bid will bring a $40,000 increase from
the year prior.


"If you look at the three-year track record and you jump back, last year also included COVID years," said Dean. "Those were years we did not have a whole lot of athletics going on at that time. That's part of why we saw low claims."

The Barton Board of Trustees approved the low bid from Great American Insurance
for $102,561, a jump from $62,000 this past year. The bid includes athletic
coverage and catastrophic coverage.


"Athletic insurance covers up to $25,000 worth of claims," said Dean. "Above $25,000 is where catastrophic takes in. It goes from $25,000 on up. I believe the catastrophic goes up to $5 million after that."

The catastrophic coverage will insure the student athlete with ongoing medical
expenses 10 years after the student has left Barton.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720709277576.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostTo cover medical expenses in case an athlete gets injured, Barton
Community College purchases athletic insurance each year. The athletic
insurance has been fairly stable the last few years, but that is changing for
the 2024-2025 season. Working on a three-year cycle with insurance companies,
claims were higher the past two years at the college. Barton Vice President of
Administration Mark Dean said the lowest bid will bring a $40,000 increase from
the year prior.
"If you look at the three-year track record and you jump back, last year also included COVID years," said Dean. "Those were years we did not have a whole lot of athletics going on at that time. That's part of why we saw low claims."The Barton Board of Trustees approved the low bid from Great American Insurance
for $102,561, a jump from $62,000 this past year. The bid includes athletic
coverage and catastrophic coverage.
"Athletic insurance covers up to $25,000 worth of claims," said Dean. "Above $25,000 is where catastrophic takes in. It goes from $25,000 on up. I believe the catastrophic goes up to $5 million after that."The catastrophic coverage will insure the student athlete with ongoing medical
expenses 10 years after the student has left Barton.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Athletic insurance on the rise for Barton Community College

Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 107. South-southwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. South wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 94. Northeast wind around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tuesday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 4 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 68. Northeast wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Northeast wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 85.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 62.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87.

Friday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Saturday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85.

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. Partly sunny, with a high near 82.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 107. South-southwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. South wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.Tuesday A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 94. Northeast wind around 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Tuesday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 4 a.m. Increasing clouds, with a low around 68. Northeast wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7 a.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Northeast wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 85.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 62.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87.Friday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.Saturday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85.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. Partly sunny, with a high near 82.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Monday's weather

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Budget season is underway for local taxing entities. One goal is to remain revenue neutral - or collect no more dollars than the year before. Barton County was revenue neutral in 2022, and actually collected less tax dollars in 2023 than in 2022. Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir said the plan going forward is to help the county remain revenue neutral but it's not always easy.

"This next year's going to be pretty tight," he said. "They're trying to remain revenue neutral and I had to give my employees a pretty substantial jump in pay just to keep up with what the police department here and in the city of Ellinwood are paying. My detention staff was starting at, I think, $0.50 less than Walmart night stockers were."

The sheriff's office is in a unique position because of the services it provides. Two or three patrol cars are typically patrolling 904 square miles of county roads at all hours of the day, racking up large fuel bills. Then there are the many variables of housing inmates at the Barton County Jail.

"You've got to do laundry for 60 people all week long," Bellendir said. "You have to have three meals a day for 60 people all day long. You have to get everybody to their doctor's appointments and court appearances. Aside from the law enforcement side of it, I have a really unique budget because you don't know what I'm going to have to buy."

Bellendir said there are currently between 60 and 70 inmates at the jail, but that number has climbed as high as 110. Other budget variables include large crimes or weather events that can increase overtime pay. As the sheriff's office does not make any money from traffic citations, writing more tickets is not a way to generate more revenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720202403187.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostBudget season is underway for local taxing entities. One goal is to remain revenue neutral - or collect no more dollars than the year before. Barton County was revenue neutral in 2022, and actually collected less tax dollars in 2023 than in 2022. Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir said the plan going forward is to help the county remain revenue neutral but it's not always easy."This next year's going to be pretty tight," he said. "They're trying to remain revenue neutral and I had to give my employees a pretty substantial jump in pay just to keep up with what the police department here and in the city of Ellinwood are paying. My detention staff was starting at, I think, $0.50 less than Walmart night stockers were."The sheriff's office is in a unique position because of the services it provides. Two or three patrol cars are typically patrolling 904 square miles of county roads at all hours of the day, racking up large fuel bills. Then there are the many variables of housing inmates at the Barton County Jail."You've got to do laundry for 60 people all week long," Bellendir said. "You have to have three meals a day for 60 people all day long. You have to get everybody to their doctor's appointments and court appearances. Aside from the law enforcement side of it, I have a really unique budget because you don't know what I'm going to have to buy."Bellendir said there are currently between 60 and 70 inmates at the jail, but that number has climbed as high as 110. Other budget variables include large crimes or weather events that can increase overtime pay. As the sheriff's office does not make any money from traffic citations, writing more tickets is not a way to generate more revenue.

Barton Co. Sheriff considers many variables when planning budget

Great Bend City Council meeting July 15 - 6:30 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers

The council meeting will be livestreamed for the public to view on the city council Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/.

C. Recognition of visitors and announcements &nbsp; &nbsp;The public is free to comment on items not listed on the agenda. Comments should be limited to three minutes.

&nbsp; &nbsp;1. Councilmember reports

&nbsp; &nbsp;2. Administrator's update

&nbsp; &nbsp;3. CVB / Community Coordinator report

&nbsp; &nbsp;4. Jesus Carbajal rezoning - 1013 Hubbard Street &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Jesus Carbajal requested a rezoning of real estate from R-3 (multi-family) to C-2 (general commercial). This was requested in order for the applicant to build a shop on the property that would store equipment and material inside the shop. A motion will be presented to rezone the real estate.

&nbsp; &nbsp;5. Manases Enterprises LLC rezoning - 1620 Baker Avenue &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Jack Manases requested to rezone real estate at 1620 Baker from R-2 (two-family) to C-2 (general commercial). Jack plans to park his trailers and equipment inside the lot and then put an 8' tall, screened fence around the property. If denied, it will continue to be a vacant lot due to being an unbuildable corner lot because of the size. A motion to deny the rezoning request will be presented.

&nbsp; &nbsp;6. Lease with Tiakkon Operating LLC &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; There are currently 14.6 acres of land on the north end of the airport that have been leased for storage. Takkion wished to lease all the acreage but currently the city has a month-to-month lease with WATCO for the south five acres of the parcel. This lease would be for the remaining 9.6 acres. Tiakkon desires a three-year term and at $365 per acre. A motion will be presented to approve the lease of 9.6 acres.

&nbsp; &nbsp;7. Heizer Park improvements &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Heizer Park improvements is a project that will be utilizing a grant from the Land &amp; Water Conservation Fund for $161,260. The grant requires a local city match of $200,000. City staff will be looking to install a Musco mini-pitch double court system along with providing a CXT Cortez restroom facility. This price also includes irrigating the entire park, new basketball goals, new sand volleyball net, fencing and netting behind a new soccer field. Motions will be presented to make improvements at Heizer.

&nbsp; &nbsp;8. Executive session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; An executive session will be requested to discuss economic development matters that will include confidential financial information and trade secrets of a business. The executive session will include the governing body, city administrator, assistant city administrator, city attorney, Economic Development President Sara Arnberger and bond counsel Dominic Eck with Gilmore Bell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657285872913.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend City Council meeting July 15 - 6:30 p.m. City Hall Council ChambersThe council meeting will be livestreamed for the public to view on the city council Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/.AgendaOpening: Pledge of AllegianceA. Consent agendaB. Old businessC. Recognition of visitors and announcements &nbsp; &nbsp;The public is free to comment on items not listed on the agenda. Comments should be limited to three minutes.D. New business&nbsp; &nbsp;1. Councilmember reports&nbsp; &nbsp;2. Administrator's update&nbsp; &nbsp;3. CVB / Community Coordinator report&nbsp; &nbsp;4. Jesus Carbajal rezoning - 1013 Hubbard Street &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Jesus Carbajal requested a rezoning of real estate from R-3 (multi-family) to C-2 (general commercial). This was requested in order for the applicant to build a shop on the property that would store equipment and material inside the shop. A motion will be presented to rezone the real estate.&nbsp; &nbsp;5. Manases Enterprises LLC rezoning - 1620 Baker Avenue &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Jack Manases requested to rezone real estate at 1620 Baker from R-2 (two-family) to C-2 (general commercial). Jack plans to park his trailers and equipment inside the lot and then put an 8' tall, screened fence around the property. If denied, it will continue to be a vacant lot due to being an unbuildable corner lot because of the size. A motion to deny the rezoning request will be presented.&nbsp; &nbsp;6. Lease with Tiakkon Operating LLC &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; There are currently 14.6 acres of land on the north end of the airport that have been leased for storage. Takkion wished to lease all the acreage but currently the city has a month-to-month lease with WATCO for the south five acres of the parcel. This lease would be for the remaining 9.6 acres. Tiakkon desires a three-year term and at $365 per acre. A motion will be presented to approve the lease of 9.6 acres.&nbsp; &nbsp;7. Heizer Park improvements &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Heizer Park improvements is a project that will be utilizing a grant from the Land &amp; Water Conservation Fund for $161,260. The grant requires a local city match of $200,000. City staff will be looking to install a Musco mini-pitch double court system along with providing a CXT Cortez restroom facility. This price also includes irrigating the entire park, new basketball goals, new sand volleyball net, fencing and netting behind a new soccer field. Motions will be presented to make improvements at Heizer.&nbsp; &nbsp;8. Executive session &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; An executive session will be requested to discuss economic development matters that will include confidential financial information and trade secrets of a business. The executive session will include the governing body, city administrator, assistant city administrator, city attorney, Economic Development President Sara Arnberger and bond counsel Dominic Eck with Gilmore Bell.Adjournment

Great Bend City Council meeting agenda (7/15)

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

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.e1UGOKV17vGO_DJbQA_sHW8wxQOEmnMwtDBKavfunq4/s/1305943094/br/245694167807-l">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.e1UGOKV17vGO_DJbQA_sHW8wxQOEmnMwtDBKavfunq4/s/1305943094/br/245694167807-l">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active AdvisoriesWarning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Gathering Pond, Geary County</li><li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li><li>King Lake, Lyon County</li>
 </ul>Watch&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Atchison City Lake #9, Atchison County (Added July 12)</li><li>Cedar Bluff, Trego County (Added July 12)</li><li>Eagle Lake (Bel Aire), Sedgwick County</li><li>Lake Afton, Sedgwick County (Added July 12)</li><li>Marion Lake (Reservoir), Marion County</li><li>Melvern Outlet River Pond, Osage County (Added July 12)</li><li>Rooks Co. SFL, Rooks County</li>
 </ul>Lifted&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Lovewell Lake, Jewell County</li><li>Webster Lake, Rooks County</li><li>Woodland Park Pond (Mount Hope), Sedgwick County</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.&nbsp; Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.&nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.&nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.&nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.&nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.</li><li>Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

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

A lot has changed since 2013.  What hasn't changed is the generosity of our community.  Touch A Truck is a unique event that is made possible through the generosity of our businesses and residents that bring equipment and vehicles to allow our young people to get up close and personal with a variety of vehicles and equipment. 

 If you have a unique vehicle or piece of equipment or know someone that does, please let them know about this event.  We typically ask businesses to set up at the Hoisington Activity Center on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. to display between 9 a.m. and noon.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720798045407.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Hoisington...A lot has changed since 2013. What hasn't changed is the generosity of our community. Touch A Truck is a unique event that is made possible through the generosity of our businesses and residents that bring equipment and vehicles to allow our young people to get up close and personal with a variety of vehicles and equipment. If you have a unique vehicle or piece of equipment or know someone that does, please let them know about this event. We typically ask businesses to set up at the Hoisington Activity Center on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. to display between 9 a.m. and noon.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Looking for entries for Hoisington's Touch-A-Truck event

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation statistics, 242 people lost their lives in rural road crashes across the state compared to 143 urban traffic fatalities last year. This accounts for 63% of 2023 crash deaths statewide. Rural roads account for more than 115,000 miles of Kansas' nearly 139,000 public road miles.&nbsp;

To bring attention to the matter, Governor Laura Kelly announced today the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero Coalition are launching the annual Rural Road Safety Awareness Week. The campaign will take place July 15-19.&nbsp;

“Raising awareness of rural road safety is critical to saving lives,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “This safety campaign emphasizes the importance of following the rules of the road to reduce risks for all drivers, occupants, and surrounding motorists, especially on rural roads.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The weeklong observance is part of a nationwide campaign spearheaded by the National Center for Rural Road Safety. The theme for this safety week is “Life Between the Lines: Preventing Rural Roadway Departures.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Improved driving behavior and avoiding rural roadway departures are keys to traffic safety. A roadway departure crash occurs after a vehicle crosses an edge line or a center line. Head-on collisions are possible when a vehicle enters an opposing line of traffic. Rollovers and impacts with trees, utility poles, or other objects are common when a vehicle crosses an edge line.&nbsp;

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation statistics, 242 people lost their lives in rural road crashes across the state compared to 143 urban traffic fatalities last year. This accounts for 63% of 2023 crash deaths statewide. Rural roads account for more than 115,000 miles of Kansas' nearly 139,000 public road miles.&nbsp;To bring attention to the matter, Governor Laura Kelly announced today the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero Coalition are launching the annual Rural Road Safety Awareness Week. The campaign will take place July 15-19.&nbsp;“Raising awareness of rural road safety is critical to saving lives,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “This safety campaign emphasizes the importance of following the rules of the road to reduce risks for all drivers, occupants, and surrounding motorists, especially on rural roads.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The weeklong observance is part of a nationwide campaign spearheaded by the National Center for Rural Road Safety. The theme for this safety week is “Life Between the Lines: Preventing Rural Roadway Departures.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Improved driving behavior and avoiding rural roadway departures are keys to traffic safety. A roadway departure crash occurs after a vehicle crosses an edge line or a center line. Head-on collisions are possible when a vehicle enters an opposing line of traffic. Rollovers and impacts with trees, utility poles, or other objects are common when a vehicle crosses an edge line.&nbsp;

Rural Road Safety Awareness Week

"If there's one thing the history of evolution has taught us, it's that life will not be contained. Life, uh, finds a way." Dr. Ian Malcolm may have been talking about dinosaurs in the 1993 classic "Jurassic Park," but the same sentiment applies to weeds. Alicia Boor, agriculture and natural resources agent in the Cottonwood District for K-State Research and Extension, said that's why it is important to know which weeds need to be controlled.

"If you are spraying indiscriminately and things are able to recover from it, that can create a problem in the future because plants will become immune to what we have," she said. "If they're immune, they're going to take over and your only option will be hand-pulling at that point."

Many weeds visible in yards during the summer need to be sprayed in the fall for proper control. Spraying the wrong type of chemical on weeds or using the chemicals too late can lead to stronger strains of the plants.

"You want to spray weeds when they're small," Boor said. "If they get too big, then they can fight off some of our herbicides. If they are able to fight it off and reproduce, that's when you get herbicide-resistant weeds."

Boor said the homeowner's best bet is to properly identify a weed before taking action. Those unable to identify a plant can take a clear photo and email it to Boor, or pull a plant and drop it by the Extension office at 3007 10th Street in Great Bend. Boor can be reached by calling (620) 793-1910, or by emailing aboor@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720020244353.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post"If there's one thing the history of evolution has taught us, it's that life will not be contained. Life, uh, finds a way." Dr. Ian Malcolm may have been talking about dinosaurs in the 1993 classic "Jurassic Park," but the same sentiment applies to weeds. Alicia Boor, agriculture and natural resources agent in the Cottonwood District for K-State Research and Extension, said that's why it is important to know which weeds need to be controlled."If you are spraying indiscriminately and things are able to recover from it, that can create a problem in the future because plants will become immune to what we have," she said. "If they're immune, they're going to take over and your only option will be hand-pulling at that point."Many weeds visible in yards during the summer need to be sprayed in the fall for proper control. Spraying the wrong type of chemical on weeds or using the chemicals too late can lead to stronger strains of the plants."You want to spray weeds when they're small," Boor said. "If they get too big, then they can fight off some of our herbicides. If they are able to fight it off and reproduce, that's when you get herbicide-resistant weeds."Boor said the homeowner's best bet is to properly identify a weed before taking action. Those unable to identify a plant can take a clear photo and email it to Boor, or pull a plant and drop it by the Extension office at 3007 10th Street in Great Bend. Boor can be reached by calling (620) 793-1910, or by emailing aboor@ksu.edu.

BOOR: Know which weed you are spraying before applying chemicals

It's difficult to think of downtown Ellinwood without thinking about Mel Waite. But that was not always the case. Waite moved his family from Concordia to Ellinwood in 1993 after he was named city administrator in Ellinwood. For the past 20 years, he's been the manager at Astra Business Solutions, LLC, right in the middle of downtown. Waite has served on various boards and committees in Ellinwood, and his contributions to the city were recently recognized with Ellinwood Rotary's Distinguished Citizen of the Year award. Mel said it could not have happened without his wife, Mary.

"Part of it is just the philosophy that Mary and I share that, as we've been blessed, we feel like we should bless others," Mel said. "We have been richly blessed with our family, with our community. We really have stayed here in the community because we enjoy the closeness it provides. We can't go anywhere in town without seeing somebody we know by first name."

Mel spent nearly a decade as Ellinwood city administrator before spending a brief stint as the Barton County administrator. He was on the ground floor of creating National Billing, which later became Astra Business Solutions. He has served on several local boards, including current roles with the Golden Belt Community Foundation and Housing Opportunities Inc. He was heavily involved in the Ellinwood Optimist Club before its recent disbanding, and he played a large role in bringing the Ellinwood Recreation Commission and Wellness Center to town. He spent many years as a youth basketball and baseball coach and helped create the Babe Ruth Baseball Program in Ellinwood which later turned into the Ellinwood High School team. All the while, Mel and Mary raised four children.

"We're empty nesters now, but raising our family here, we had comfort here knowing our kids could walk across town or ride their bikes to the swimming pool or across town and we felt like it was in relative safety," said Mel. "We appreciated that and opted to stay here and raise our family."

Mel has also been active with church organizations, serving as Eucharistic Minister at St. Joseph Catholic Church. He is a former Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus and a former school council member at St. Joseph School. Mel was also the retreat director for the ACTS Retreat.

"Our greatest treasure is our faith and family," he said. "Everything else falls into place behind these. We have been given the task to bless others with the blessings we receive. We are simply stewards of these blessings."

Waite will be recognized in the After Harvest Festival Parade that has fallen on the third Saturday in July for the past 50 years. This year's parade falls on July 20, just one day shy of Mel and Mary's wedding anniversary.

"We will be celebrating, that exact weekend, 45 years of marriage," he said. "We're having a family get-together. Our children and their families will be here. As part of the recognition, we're going to all get on a float and ride in the parade to commemorate that milestone in addition to being the distinguished citizen."

Former Ellinwood Mayor Frank Koelsch will also be honored during the parade as the grand marshal. The 2024 AHF Parade will work its way down Main Street in Ellinwood on Saturday, July 20 at 10 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720632493467.jpeg" alt="Ellinwood's 2024 Distinguished Citizen Mel Waite" />
 <figcaption>Ellinwood's 2024 Distinguished Citizen Mel Waite</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIt's difficult to think of downtown Ellinwood without thinking about Mel Waite. But that was not always the case. Waite moved his family from Concordia to Ellinwood in 1993 after he was named city administrator in Ellinwood. For the past 20 years, he's been the manager at Astra Business Solutions, LLC, right in the middle of downtown. Waite has served on various boards and committees in Ellinwood, and his contributions to the city were recently recognized with Ellinwood Rotary's Distinguished Citizen of the Year award. Mel said it could not have happened without his wife, Mary."Part of it is just the philosophy that Mary and I share that, as we've been blessed, we feel like we should bless others," Mel said. "We have been richly blessed with our family, with our community. We really have stayed here in the community because we enjoy the closeness it provides. We can't go anywhere in town without seeing somebody we know by first name."Mel spent nearly a decade as Ellinwood city administrator before spending a brief stint as the Barton County administrator. He was on the ground floor of creating National Billing, which later became Astra Business Solutions. He has served on several local boards, including current roles with the Golden Belt Community Foundation and Housing Opportunities Inc. He was heavily involved in the Ellinwood Optimist Club before its recent disbanding, and he played a large role in bringing the Ellinwood Recreation Commission and Wellness Center to town. He spent many years as a youth basketball and baseball coach and helped create the Babe Ruth Baseball Program in Ellinwood which later turned into the Ellinwood High School team. All the while, Mel and Mary raised four children.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720632512589.jpeg" alt="With this year's AHF Parade falling just one day shy of Mel and Mary's 45th wedding anniversary, Waite will be joined in the parade by his four children and eight grandchildren. A ninth is on the way." />
 <figcaption>With this year's AHF Parade falling just one day shy of Mel and Mary's 45th wedding anniversary, Waite will be joined in the parade by his four children and eight grandchildren. A ninth is on the way.</figcaption>
 </figure>"We're empty nesters now, but raising our family here, we had comfort here knowing our kids could walk across town or ride their bikes to the swimming pool or across town and we felt like it was in relative safety," said Mel. "We appreciated that and opted to stay here and raise our family."Mel has also been active with church organizations, serving as Eucharistic Minister at St. Joseph Catholic Church. He is a former Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus and a former school council member at St. Joseph School. Mel was also the retreat director for the ACTS Retreat."Our greatest treasure is our faith and family," he said. "Everything else falls into place behind these. We have been given the task to bless others with the blessings we receive. We are simply stewards of these blessings."Waite will be recognized in the After Harvest Festival Parade that has fallen on the third Saturday in July for the past 50 years. This year's parade falls on July 20, just one day shy of Mel and Mary's wedding anniversary."We will be celebrating, that exact weekend, 45 years of marriage," he said. "We're having a family get-together. Our children and their families will be here. As part of the recognition, we're going to all get on a float and ride in the parade to commemorate that milestone in addition to being the distinguished citizen."Former Ellinwood Mayor Frank Koelsch will also be honored during the parade as the grand marshal. The 2024 AHF Parade will work its way down Main Street in Ellinwood on Saturday, July 20 at 10 a.m.

2024 AHF Parade extra special for Ellinwood's Distinguished Citizen Waite

The Barton County Historical Society and the Quivira Chapter Santa Fe Trail Association will host Kansas Archaeologist Dr. Nikki Klarmann for a program at 7 p.m., Monday, July 22 in the Ray Schulz Research Library at the historical society, 85 S. Hwy. 281, Great Bend. The program is free for members of the society and those under 16, and $5 for all other attendees.  Memberships will be available for purchase at the door that night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720800414379.jpeg" alt="Kansas archaeologist Dr. Nikki Klarmann" />
 <figcaption>Kansas archaeologist Dr. Nikki Klarmann</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Historical Society and the Quivira Chapter Santa Fe Trail Association will host Kansas Archaeologist Dr. Nikki Klarmann for a program at 7 p.m., Monday, July 22 in the Ray Schulz Research Library at the historical society, 85 S. Hwy. 281, Great Bend. The program is free for members of the society and those under 16, and $5 for all other attendees. Memberships will be available for purchase at the door that night.For decades, the Kansas Historical Society's (KSHS) Contract Archeology Program (CAP) has assisted the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) in reviewing proposed projects for impacts to historic and cultural resources. In 2021, KDOT requested a review of a redesign of US-56 to a four-lane expressway near Great Bend in Barton County. Upon review, the recorded location of the Second Fort Zarah, built in 1867, was identified as potentially being disturbed by the project. After an initial archeological survey, additional testing was requested by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to identify whether any part of the fort remained, which would potentially be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). This work is ongoing and collaboration with the community and landowners is important to both KSHS and KDOT. State Archeologist, Dr. Nikki Klarmann will speak on the history of the Fort and provide an update on the status of the archeological testing and whether evidence of the Second Fort Zarah remains buried along US-56.

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