For the second time in seven years, Kansas has just experienced a near-total eclipse.&nbsp; Both times, I headed outside to view it through my eye-protecting eclipse glasses, here at Emporia State.&nbsp; Each time was a fun opportunity to join with others on our campus and watch a rare, natural phenomenon.&nbsp; This time, it was also a chance to reflect on just how much has changed.

The 2017 eclipse occurred more than two years before the Covid pandemic of 2020-2021, and five years before deep cuts were made to ESU’s workforce and programs in 2022.&nbsp; Back then, the watch party was a busy campus event.&nbsp; Union Square between Plumb Hall and Memorial Union was standing-only, packed with students, faculty, and staff anticipating the event.&nbsp; People shared their eclipse glasses and chatted while waiting for the moon to cross the sun.&nbsp; Some classes let out early and people rushed outside to see it.&nbsp; Academic departments disseminated information about eclipses, reminded people of the proper safety protocols, and encouraged visits to the ESU Planetarium.&nbsp; Campus buildings emptied, then filled back up again after the event’s climax.&nbsp; Watching all those people wearing funny glasses and looking in the same direction, I couldn’t help but think of those 1950s photos showing people wearing 3-D glasses in movie theaters. That was us, crowded together, murmuring excitedly, pointing and watching the sun and moon in all their glory–and ours.

What a difference six and a half years makes.&nbsp; We still watched the eclipse at ESU, and it was still fun, but the feel was completely different.&nbsp; Instead of a standing-only crowd, there was just a handful of us, so few that we could each find a comfortable chair in the newly renovated Union Square.&nbsp; Most who did come were students.&nbsp; I could count only a small number of faculty besides myself. We sat and chatted, taking turns looking through the glasses.&nbsp; There were no campus-sponsored, eclipse-watching events, except a small performance by some music students on another part of campus. Many others preferred to watch at home.&nbsp;

These changes reflect that way our campus, campuses more generally, and work life have all changed since 2017.&nbsp; The cuts of 2022 reduced our faculty, and student enrollments are down as well.&nbsp; Those who remain now work more from home.&nbsp; Courses are a mix of online and face to face. The whole feel of our campus reminds me of a campus during the summer–just a handful of us, quiet, peaceful, plenty of time to get work done.&nbsp;

This tale of two eclipses is part of a bigger story. &nbsp; College enrollments are down nationally, and some other campuses have also experienced deep cuts.&nbsp; Post-pandemic, white collar workers have continued working from home at least part of the time, in no small part due to the high cost and shortage of childcare.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I miss the bustling excitement of 2017.&nbsp; If I’m being honest, though, I can also get used to the new climate.&nbsp; I like the relaxed, chill vibe– just students and a handful of faculty chatting and enjoying the eclipse safely, a comfortable front-row seat for everyone– an endless summer on campus.&nbsp; It’s a good thing, too, because as universities face lower enrollments and working from home gets institutionalized, quieter workplaces are here to stay.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698326876404.png" alt="written by: Michael A. Smith, professor of political science at Emporia State University" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michael A. Smith, professor of political science at Emporia State University</figcaption>
 </figure>For the second time in seven years, Kansas has just experienced a near-total eclipse.&nbsp; Both times, I headed outside to view it through my eye-protecting eclipse glasses, here at Emporia State.&nbsp; Each time was a fun opportunity to join with others on our campus and watch a rare, natural phenomenon.&nbsp; This time, it was also a chance to reflect on just how much has changed.The 2017 eclipse occurred more than two years before the Covid pandemic of 2020-2021, and five years before deep cuts were made to ESU’s workforce and programs in 2022.&nbsp; Back then, the watch party was a busy campus event.&nbsp; Union Square between Plumb Hall and Memorial Union was standing-only, packed with students, faculty, and staff anticipating the event.&nbsp; People shared their eclipse glasses and chatted while waiting for the moon to cross the sun.&nbsp; Some classes let out early and people rushed outside to see it.&nbsp; Academic departments disseminated information about eclipses, reminded people of the proper safety protocols, and encouraged visits to the ESU Planetarium.&nbsp; Campus buildings emptied, then filled back up again after the event’s climax.&nbsp; Watching all those people wearing funny glasses and looking in the same direction, I couldn’t help but think of those 1950s photos showing people wearing 3-D glasses in movie theaters. That was us, crowded together, murmuring excitedly, pointing and watching the sun and moon in all their glory–and ours.What a difference six and a half years makes.&nbsp; We still watched the eclipse at ESU, and it was still fun, but the feel was completely different.&nbsp; Instead of a standing-only crowd, there was just a handful of us, so few that we could each find a comfortable chair in the newly renovated Union Square.&nbsp; Most who did come were students.&nbsp; I could count only a small number of faculty besides myself. We sat and chatted, taking turns looking through the glasses.&nbsp; There were no campus-sponsored, eclipse-watching events, except a small performance by some music students on another part of campus. Many others preferred to watch at home.&nbsp;These changes reflect that way our campus, campuses more generally, and work life have all changed since 2017.&nbsp; The cuts of 2022 reduced our faculty, and student enrollments are down as well.&nbsp; Those who remain now work more from home.&nbsp; Courses are a mix of online and face to face. The whole feel of our campus reminds me of a campus during the summer–just a handful of us, quiet, peaceful, plenty of time to get work done.&nbsp;This tale of two eclipses is part of a bigger story. &nbsp; College enrollments are down nationally, and some other campuses have also experienced deep cuts.&nbsp; Post-pandemic, white collar workers have continued working from home at least part of the time, in no small part due to the high cost and shortage of childcare.&nbsp;&nbsp;I miss the bustling excitement of 2017.&nbsp; If I’m being honest, though, I can also get used to the new climate.&nbsp; I like the relaxed, chill vibe– just students and a handful of faculty chatting and enjoying the eclipse safely, a comfortable front-row seat for everyone– an endless summer on campus.&nbsp; It’s a good thing, too, because as universities face lower enrollments and working from home gets institutionalized, quieter workplaces are here to stay.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Eclipse watch parties show how campus has changed

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley that aired April 10, 2024.

The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley that aired April 10, 2024.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley" 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=8vyg2-15db32f-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 City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Public Works Director Cauley

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by the Great Bend Recreation
Commission, is becoming one of the more popular spring events in the area. The
event uses the classic egg hunt, but brings flashlights into the mix with the
hunt taking place at night. 

Great Bend Rec Marketing Director Megan Hammeke
said 364 children, between the ages of three and 12, searched for thousands of
eggs at the Great Bend Sports Complex.


"We divide the four fields for age groups," said Hammeke. "The baseball field is the biggest and is used by the 9-12 year olds. All the eggs for the bigger kids were black to make it harder to find."

Hammeke said there was more than 10,000 eggs throughout the four fields for all
of the age groups. In addition to the children, an estimated 564 spectators
were there for the event.

"It wasn't as dark as the year before, mainly because Easter was so early this year," said Hammeke. "We knew there was a chance of it being so cold, so we went a little before."


New this year, a fireworks show was provided following the egg hunt.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712763926956.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by the Great Bend Recreation
Commission, is becoming one of the more popular spring events in the area. The
event uses the classic egg hunt, but brings flashlights into the mix with the
hunt taking place at night. Great Bend Rec Marketing Director Megan Hammeke
said 364 children, between the ages of three and 12, searched for thousands of
eggs at the Great Bend Sports Complex.
"We divide the four fields for age groups," said Hammeke. "The baseball field is the biggest and is used by the 9-12 year olds. All the eggs for the bigger kids were black to make it harder to find."Hammeke said there was more than 10,000 eggs throughout the four fields for all
of the age groups. In addition to the children, an estimated 564 spectators
were there for the event."It wasn't as dark as the year before, mainly because Easter was so early this year," said Hammeke. "We knew there was a chance of it being so cold, so we went a little before."
New this year, a fireworks show was provided following the egg hunt.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Numbers are growing for Great Bend Rec’s flashlight egg hunt

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The Barton County Courthouse HVAC Renovation Project completion date continues to draw nearer, but not everything in the 106-year-old building has been updated. At Tuesday's county commission, IT Director Dereck Hollingshead asked for approval to replace access panels to secure rooms typically used by court and county attorney staff.

"Since July 2018, Barton County has used access-controlled doors throughout a lot of our county facilities," he said. "Judge Carey Hipp has requested that we secure seven of their doors on the third and fourth floor from punch pads to card access."

The old pads required a combination of numbers and the doors could be opened by anyone who knew the sequence of numbers, including former employees or anyone who saw the code being entered. The new pads will limit access and increase the county's ability to secure certain rooms. The county received two bids on the project and accepted the local and low bid from Nex-Tech for $6,230.38.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619186644580.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Courthouse HVAC Renovation Project completion date continues to draw nearer, but not everything in the 106-year-old building has been updated. At Tuesday's county commission, IT Director Dereck Hollingshead asked for approval to replace access panels to secure rooms typically used by court and county attorney staff."Since July 2018, Barton County has used access-controlled doors throughout a lot of our county facilities," he said. "Judge Carey Hipp has requested that we secure seven of their doors on the third and fourth floor from punch pads to card access."The old pads required a combination of numbers and the doors could be opened by anyone who knew the sequence of numbers, including former employees or anyone who saw the code being entered. The new pads will limit access and increase the county's ability to secure certain rooms. The county received two bids on the project and accepted the local and low bid from Nex-Tech for $6,230.38.

Small security upgrade approved for top floors of Barton courthouse

In the early morning hours of Friday, April 12 at about 2:30 a.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped a 2013 Chevrolet Impala near US 281 Highway and NE 50th Road. The vehicle was stopped for multiple equipment violations as well as traffic infractions. 

The deputy contacted the driver, identified as Triston Pitts, age 28 of Genesee, KS. The officers became suspicious of possible drug activity and the Sheriff’s Office K9 Menta was called to the scene. The K9 indicated&nbsp; the presence of controlled substances in the vehicle. Further investigation revealed methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia as well as a set of brass knuckles.

Pitts was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Amanda Enriquez, age 30 of Great Bend, was also placed under arrest.

Pitts was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia as well as possession of an unlawful weapon. Enriquez was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both are being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712939047782.jpeg" alt="Triston Pitts" />
 <figcaption>Triston Pitts</figcaption>
 </figure>In the early morning hours of Friday, April 12 at about 2:30 a.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped a 2013 Chevrolet Impala near US 281 Highway and NE 50th Road. The vehicle was stopped for multiple equipment violations as well as traffic infractions. The deputy contacted the driver, identified as Triston Pitts, age 28 of Genesee, KS. The officers became suspicious of possible drug activity and the Sheriff’s Office K9 Menta was called to the scene. The K9 indicated&nbsp; the presence of controlled substances in the vehicle. Further investigation revealed methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia as well as a set of brass knuckles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712939067948.jpeg" alt="Amanda Enriquez" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Enriquez</figcaption>
 </figure>Pitts was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Amanda Enriquez, age 30 of Great Bend, was also placed under arrest.Pitts was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia as well as possession of an unlawful weapon. Enriquez was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both are being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

Drug arrests made near US 281 Highway in Barton County

Story by Maggie Harris Photo by Courtney Liebl

Barton Community College has developed a new help webpage for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to assist students and parents in navigating the changes that came with the FAFSA Simplification for 2024-2025.

The webpage offers students and parents a place to find essential resources, FAQs, and tools to streamline the financial aid application process.

Director of Financial Aid Myrna Perkins said it is important that we make the process as accessible and transparent as possible.

"We recognize that the financial aid process can be overwhelming, especially for first-time applicants," she said. “We are committed to helping students achieve their academic goals by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to navigate the financial aid process successfully.”

Perkins encourages all current and prospective students and their parents to visit the new resource, which can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc.edu/financialaid/fafsa">bartonccc.edu/financialaid/fafsa</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712844038586.jpeg" alt="A Barton financial aid officer answers a student’s questions about the FAFSA. The new financial aid help page is available for students and parents to help them through the new FAFSA Simplification." />
 <figcaption>A Barton financial aid officer answers a student’s questions about the FAFSA. The new financial aid help page is available for students and parents to help them through the new FAFSA Simplification.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Maggie Harris Photo by Courtney LieblBarton Community College has developed a new help webpage for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to assist students and parents in navigating the changes that came with the FAFSA Simplification for 2024-2025.The webpage offers students and parents a place to find essential resources, FAQs, and tools to streamline the financial aid application process.Director of Financial Aid Myrna Perkins said it is important that we make the process as accessible and transparent as possible."We recognize that the financial aid process can be overwhelming, especially for first-time applicants," she said. “We are committed to helping students achieve their academic goals by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to navigate the financial aid process successfully.”Perkins encourages all current and prospective students and their parents to visit the new resource, which can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc.edu/financialaid/fafsa">bartonccc.edu/financialaid/fafsa</a>.

Barton Community College launches financial aid help page

Once upon a time, those in need of emergency assistance had to remember a seven-digit phone number to call for help. In February 1968, the first 911 call was made by a state politician in Alabama. The number became a consolidated public safety answering point in Barton County in 1989. Barton County Communications Director Dena Popp was at Tuesday's county commission meeting to proclaim April 14-20 as National Public Safety Communications Officer Week.

"The extreme multitasking, constant change in pace, high stress, rotating shifts, nights, holidays, and weekends is not for everyone," she said. "For some dispatchers, the things we hear can take a toll on a person's mental health: not knowing if the person you gave CPR survived; not knowing if the conversation you had with somebody in a mental crisis made enough impact to convince them to get the help they need. 911 is not for everybody, but over the last year, 911 staff in Barton County have had some calls that have reminded us why we love this profession and to keep us motivated and dedicated to our job."

Popp told commissioners how one dispatcher, just the day before, talked a suicidal caller through the steps to seek help for an alcohol-related intervention. One dispatcher, in the space of 60 days, helped two callers administer CPR and another deliver a baby.

"Both CPR calls resulted in lives being saved," Popp said. "The spouse of one of those CPR saves has contacted me and expressed her gratitude for the calm demeanor, professionalism, and guidance through the CPR that she believes saved her loved one."

911 services have greatly changed since the original service began in the 1960s. In Barton County, Rapid Deploy technology helps dispatchers pinpoint the location of callers, and new video and text-to-911 options add ways for callers to seek help. Beyond the many emergency calls dispatchers handle, they also take administrative calls, work with road crews, electrical crews, and tow-truck companies. They even answered questions about COVID-19 during the pandemic.

"The commitment, sacrifice, and dedication that has been shown by these 911 employees does not go unnoticed," said Popp. "It's very appreciated and makes me very proud. Oftentimes, this is a thankless job, and I want to say thank you to my staff. I appreciate their dedication and the personal sacrifices they've made all these years. I'm proud to have them as part of my team in this amazing profession."

Eight of the current 14 positions at Barton County Communications are occupied by dispatchers with 3-29 years of experience.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656610452503.jpeg" alt="Barton County Communications Director Dena Popp" />
 <figcaption>Barton County Communications Director Dena Popp</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostOnce upon a time, those in need of emergency assistance had to remember a seven-digit phone number to call for help. In February 1968, the first 911 call was made by a state politician in Alabama. The number became a consolidated public safety answering point in Barton County in 1989. Barton County Communications Director Dena Popp was at Tuesday's county commission meeting to proclaim April 14-20 as National Public Safety Communications Officer Week."The extreme multitasking, constant change in pace, high stress, rotating shifts, nights, holidays, and weekends is not for everyone," she said. "For some dispatchers, the things we hear can take a toll on a person's mental health: not knowing if the person you gave CPR survived; not knowing if the conversation you had with somebody in a mental crisis made enough impact to convince them to get the help they need. 911 is not for everybody, but over the last year, 911 staff in Barton County have had some calls that have reminded us why we love this profession and to keep us motivated and dedicated to our job."Popp told commissioners how one dispatcher, just the day before, talked a suicidal caller through the steps to seek help for an alcohol-related intervention. One dispatcher, in the space of 60 days, helped two callers administer CPR and another deliver a baby."Both CPR calls resulted in lives being saved," Popp said. "The spouse of one of those CPR saves has contacted me and expressed her gratitude for the calm demeanor, professionalism, and guidance through the CPR that she believes saved her loved one."911 services have greatly changed since the original service began in the 1960s. In Barton County, Rapid Deploy technology helps dispatchers pinpoint the location of callers, and new video and text-to-911 options add ways for callers to seek help. Beyond the many emergency calls dispatchers handle, they also take administrative calls, work with road crews, electrical crews, and tow-truck companies. They even answered questions about COVID-19 during the pandemic."The commitment, sacrifice, and dedication that has been shown by these 911 employees does not go unnoticed," said Popp. "It's very appreciated and makes me very proud. Oftentimes, this is a thankless job, and I want to say thank you to my staff. I appreciate their dedication and the personal sacrifices they've made all these years. I'm proud to have them as part of my team in this amazing profession."Eight of the current 14 positions at Barton County Communications are occupied by dispatchers with 3-29 years of experience.

The help you never see: Barton Co. recognizes 911 dispatchers

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/11)

At 6:38 a.m. an accident was reported at SE 50 Road &amp; SE
50 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 5:27 p.m. a theft was reported at 697 W. K-4 Highway in
Olmitz.

At 11:49 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 100 block of S.
Elm Street in Hoisington.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/11)

At 2:07 a.m. a report to remove a subject was made at 1033
Adams Street. The subject lives there.

At 8:21 a.m. an accident was reported at 1709 Main Street.

At 10:21 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 4107 10th
Street.

At 10:27 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3502 10th
Street.

At 3:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 5520 10th
Street.

At 3:54 p.m. a fire was reported at 700 Frey Street. The
subjects were cutting on an old tractor.

At 9:20 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at 3rd
&amp; Firethorn.

At 10:18 p.m. a fire was reported at Harrison &amp; Lakin.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/11)Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:38 a.m. an accident was reported at SE 50 Road &amp; SE
50 Avenue in Ellinwood.TheftAt 5:27 p.m. a theft was reported at 697 W. K-4 Highway in
Olmitz.K-9 Use / Call OutAt 11:49 p.m. the K-9 was called out to the 100 block of S.
Elm Street in Hoisington.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/11)Threats / Criminal ThreatsAt 2:07 a.m. a report to remove a subject was made at 1033
Adams Street. The subject lives there.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:21 a.m. an accident was reported at 1709 Main Street.Back PainAt 10:21 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 4107 10th
Street.Sick PersonAt 10:27 a.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 3502 10th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:50 p.m. an accident was reported at 5520 10th
Street.Structure FireAt 3:54 p.m. a fire was reported at 700 Frey Street. The
subjects were cutting on an old tractor.Noise ComplaintAt 9:20 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at 3rd
&amp; Firethorn.FireAt 10:18 p.m. a fire was reported at Harrison &amp; Lakin.

Cop Shop (4/11)

BOOKED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Chad Gibson on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Brandi Clark on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Kenneth Patterson on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $25,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Charles Bowers, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrants for Theft, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, on $10,000 OR bond.

RELEASED: Brandi Clark on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/11BOOKED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Chad Gibson on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Brandi Clark on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Kenneth Patterson on Pawnee County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, bond set at $25,000 C/S.RELEASED: Charles Bowers, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrants for Theft, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, on $10,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Brandi Clark on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended, after posting $1,000 surety bond through A-1 Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Martin Lopez-Valdez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/11)

Progress continues on the Ninja Course and rock-climbing wall at the
Great Bend Activity Center. The installation is the start of a trio of playground
installations that will be occurring in Great Bend. 

Digging holes to secure the
equipment, the Hellas Construction crew found old building footings from the
previous Morrison Elementary School.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/474cb863-edc5-4f64-8737-0b52af31dea9">RELATED STORY: Ninja Course, rock wall coming to Great Bend playground</a>

Great Bend Rec Executive Director Chris
Umphres said Hellas will be moving quickly to finish the Ninja Course and the
playground additions at the Sports Complex and Veterans Memorial Park.


"When Hellas has a standstill, the playground equipment came for the Sports Complex and Vets," said Umphres. "This week and next, they'll be out there putting that stuff together. The city has already done the post holes at the Sports Complex. They can just bounce over there and finish that while they're here."

Between the Ninja Course, rock wall and turf, the $471,000 MyBackyard Playgound
project at the Activity Center is expected to be finished before the summer.


<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d8f9d447-1417-4be3-87bf-c82c79f7a431">A 36' x 29' playground feature</a>&nbsp;will also be installed at the Sports
Complex for children ages 5 - 12.

A 20' x 20' area next to the
softball fields at Veterans Park will also receive <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5db738f0-ac36-4ca2-bc6f-49106cc9002b">playground equipment</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712776590574.jpeg" alt="Installation continues for the Ninja Course at the Activity Center on 18th Street in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Installation continues for the Ninja Course at the Activity Center on 18th Street in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostProgress continues on the Ninja Course and rock-climbing wall at the
Great Bend Activity Center. The installation is the start of a trio of playground
installations that will be occurring in Great Bend. Digging holes to secure the
equipment, the Hellas Construction crew found old building footings from the
previous Morrison Elementary School.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/474cb863-edc5-4f64-8737-0b52af31dea9">RELATED STORY: Ninja Course, rock wall coming to Great Bend playground</a>Great Bend Rec Executive Director Chris
Umphres said Hellas will be moving quickly to finish the Ninja Course and the
playground additions at the Sports Complex and Veterans Memorial Park.
"When Hellas has a standstill, the playground equipment came for the Sports Complex and Vets," said Umphres. "This week and next, they'll be out there putting that stuff together. The city has already done the post holes at the Sports Complex. They can just bounce over there and finish that while they're here."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712776646971.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Between the Ninja Course, rock wall and turf, the $471,000 MyBackyard Playgound
project at the Activity Center is expected to be finished before the summer.
<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/d8f9d447-1417-4be3-87bf-c82c79f7a431">A 36' x 29' playground feature</a>&nbsp;will also be installed at the Sports
Complex for children ages 5 - 12.A 20' x 20' area next to the
softball fields at Veterans Park will also receive <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5db738f0-ac36-4ca2-bc6f-49106cc9002b">playground equipment</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712776664899.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Trio of playground installations underway in Great Bend

Today Sunny, with a high near 76. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast 11 to 16 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 51. Southeast wind 11 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Saturday Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 14 to 19 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 22 mph decreasing to 8 to 13 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 89. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 58.

Monday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.

Monday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Breezy.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 81.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 46. Breezy.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 69. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 76. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast 11 to 16 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 23 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 51. Southeast wind 11 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Saturday Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy, with a south-southwest wind 14 to 19 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 33 mph.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 22 mph decreasing to 8 to 13 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 89. West-northwest wind 8 to 10 mph becoming east in the afternoon.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 58.Monday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.Monday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 76. Breezy.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Breezy.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 81.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 46. Breezy.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 69. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Blood drive in Larned on Friday

"We don't need more taxes in Barton County, we need more taxpayers in Barton County." Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson coined the phrase and has tried making that true for the county. Hutchinson spoke Tuesday morning before the board of commissioners approved a pair of letters in support of two downtown development projects in Great Bend.

"Our downtowns are a barometer to gauge our community's mental health and emotional well-being," he said. "The downtowns can also be a tool that can help improve our community's mental and emotional health. This requires continued investment and partnerships."

The commission first approved a letter of support regarding the Lofts at the Zarah Project. Original plans included converting the building at 1917 Lakin Ave. in Great Bend to 24 apartments. The decision to renovate the fourth floor and add four more apartments made the project eligible for $128,000 in additional assistance through the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation. The commission also approved a letter of support for the High Noon Loft Grant for the former JC Penney building at 1500 Kansas Ave., which the county leased to house operations during the courthouse HVAC renovation project.

"If someone would say to me, put your money where your mouth is, I would say Barton County has put their money where their mouth is," Hutchinson said. "We have lived with less-than-desirable conditions at the JC Penney building, and we've helped bring it to a point where it is usable again. At least the first floor is usable again. We've also brought $636,407 to the city of Great Bend's property owners to improve the appearance of the downtown properties."

Tuesday's votes by the commission were merely approval for letters of support for the projects. Commissioners Tricia Schlessiger and Duane Reif seconded Hutchinson's sentiments.

"One of the top things we all get behind is housing and daycare in this community," Schlessiger said. "To add more apartments to the Zarah, or I don't know what they're going to do with the upstairs here but, either way, it's a great use of square footage. I'd definitely support both of these."

"It's really the cheapest form of housing we can do," Reif said. "Even though it looks like a lot of money, I think with that many apartments, it's a cheap way of increasing the population in Barton County."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712776949689.jpeg" alt="The Barton County Commission approved&nbsp; letters of support for&nbsp; two development projects in downtown Great Bend during Tuesday's meeting." />
 <figcaption>The Barton County Commission approved&nbsp; letters of support for&nbsp; two development projects in downtown Great Bend during Tuesday's meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post"We don't need more taxes in Barton County, we need more taxpayers in Barton County." Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson coined the phrase and has tried making that true for the county. Hutchinson spoke Tuesday morning before the board of commissioners approved a pair of letters in support of two downtown development projects in Great Bend."Our downtowns are a barometer to gauge our community's mental health and emotional well-being," he said. "The downtowns can also be a tool that can help improve our community's mental and emotional health. This requires continued investment and partnerships."The commission first approved a letter of support regarding the Lofts at the Zarah Project. Original plans included converting the building at 1917 Lakin Ave. in Great Bend to 24 apartments. The decision to renovate the fourth floor and add four more apartments made the project eligible for $128,000 in additional assistance through the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation. The commission also approved a letter of support for the High Noon Loft Grant for the former JC Penney building at 1500 Kansas Ave., which the county leased to house operations during the courthouse HVAC renovation project."If someone would say to me, put your money where your mouth is, I would say Barton County has put their money where their mouth is," Hutchinson said. "We have lived with less-than-desirable conditions at the JC Penney building, and we've helped bring it to a point where it is usable again. At least the first floor is usable again. We've also brought $636,407 to the city of Great Bend's property owners to improve the appearance of the downtown properties."Tuesday's votes by the commission were merely approval for letters of support for the projects. Commissioners Tricia Schlessiger and Duane Reif seconded Hutchinson's sentiments."One of the top things we all get behind is housing and daycare in this community," Schlessiger said. "To add more apartments to the Zarah, or I don't know what they're going to do with the upstairs here but, either way, it's a great use of square footage. I'd definitely support both of these.""It's really the cheapest form of housing we can do," Reif said. "Even though it looks like a lot of money, I think with that many apartments, it's a cheap way of increasing the population in Barton County."

Barton Commission approves letters of support for GB developments

The Bushton Proud Committee will host a Karaoke &amp; BBQ Night on Saturday, April 20, at the Bushton Community Center, 301 N. Main Street, Bushton.

Happy Hour, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase, will begin at 5 p.m., the free-will-donation meal, featuring Hog Wild barbeque, will be served from 6 – 8 p.m., and karaoke will run from 7 – 11 p.m.

The Hog Wild barbeque meal will include a choice of brisket, pulled pork, or chicken, and a choice of two of three side dishes. Take-out meals will be available. Karaoke will be directed by Mike Osburn with Noisy Neighbors Entertainment of Newton.

The event is a fundraiser for the Proud Committee with proceeds going toward future Committee projects and events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712669938676.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Bushton Proud Committee will host a Karaoke &amp; BBQ Night on Saturday, April 20, at the Bushton Community Center, 301 N. Main Street, Bushton.Happy Hour, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase, will begin at 5 p.m., the free-will-donation meal, featuring Hog Wild barbeque, will be served from 6 – 8 p.m., and karaoke will run from 7 – 11 p.m.The Hog Wild barbeque meal will include a choice of brisket, pulled pork, or chicken, and a choice of two of three side dishes. Take-out meals will be available. Karaoke will be directed by Mike Osburn with Noisy Neighbors Entertainment of Newton.The event is a fundraiser for the Proud Committee with proceeds going toward future Committee projects and events.

Bushton Pride Community to host karaoke & BBQ night

The FHSU Criminal Justice Club's Delta Tau Omega Chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association/Lambda Alpha Epsilon attended the 87th national conference in Grapevine, Texas, March 17-22.

The conference included a range of competitions such as written testing, physical agility, crime scenes, firearms, scholarships, national paper competitions, and scholarly posters.&nbsp;

In addition to competing in each area, club members attended sessions about serial killers and crime scene processing and a career fair. Club members also engaged in a team-building activity, dividing the team into two groups to solve an escape room. Both groups successfully escaped within 60 minutes, with Criminal Justice Program Chair Dr. Tamara Lynn's group escaping in a record time, for their room, of 42 minutes.&nbsp;

Club members also traveled to Cafe Momentum in downtown Dallas to tour and serve the organization at the Community Service Center, where youth ages 15 - 19, previously involved in the juvenile justice system, attend school, meet with social workers, learn job skills, and can even attend college.&nbsp;

“Attendance at the national conference is always a highlight for club members who are challenged to do and be better versions of themselves,” Lynn said.

Members won the following awards:&nbsp;Dr. Morgan Steele, assistant professor of criminal justice - Homeland Security, third place professional division.

Mackenzie Hagerman, Rush Center - Forensic Psychology, third place lower division.

Dr. Ziwei Qi, assistant professor of criminal justice - Forensic Psychology, first place; Corrections, first place; Juvenile Justice, second place; Criminal Law, third place, all professional division; Physical Agility, second place, Female 36 +.

Morgan Drake, Parker, Colo. - Physical Agility, second place, Female 25 and Under

Madelyn Underwood, Lawrence, scholarly poster competition, first place, graduate division.&nbsp;

National Paper Competition - Students earning first through third place receive a cash award, and those earning first place get their paper published in the LAE Journal of the American Criminal Justice Association.

Vanessa Diaz, Hays – “Due process vs crime control philosophies of justice,” first place, lower division.

Karen Thew, St. George – “Probation conditions: Are offenders being set up to fail?”, second place, upper division.

Accacia Pedigo, Great Bend – “Police interactions regarding individuals with mental illness,” third place, graduate division.

Madelyn Underwood, Lawrence - “The lack of mental health as a priority in prisons,” first place, graduate division.

ACJA/LAE Scholarship, students placing first through third at each level of competition:

Vanessa Diaz, Hays, first place, lower division.Harleigh Smith, Concordia, second place, upper division.&nbsp;Karen Thew, St. George, first place, upper division.&nbsp;Madelyn Underwood, Lawrence, first place, graduate division.

Students brought home a combined total of $4,100 in cash awards. A group of seven club members and faculty earned second place in the annual talent/lip sync competition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712671031703.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsThe FHSU Criminal Justice Club's Delta Tau Omega Chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association/Lambda Alpha Epsilon attended the 87th national conference in Grapevine, Texas, March 17-22.The conference included a range of competitions such as written testing, physical agility, crime scenes, firearms, scholarships, national paper competitions, and scholarly posters.&nbsp;In addition to competing in each area, club members attended sessions about serial killers and crime scene processing and a career fair. Club members also engaged in a team-building activity, dividing the team into two groups to solve an escape room. Both groups successfully escaped within 60 minutes, with Criminal Justice Program Chair Dr. Tamara Lynn's group escaping in a record time, for their room, of 42 minutes.&nbsp;Club members also traveled to Cafe Momentum in downtown Dallas to tour and serve the organization at the Community Service Center, where youth ages 15 - 19, previously involved in the juvenile justice system, attend school, meet with social workers, learn job skills, and can even attend college.&nbsp;“Attendance at the national conference is always a highlight for club members who are challenged to do and be better versions of themselves,” Lynn said.Members won the following awards:&nbsp;Dr. Morgan Steele, assistant professor of criminal justice - Homeland Security, third place professional division.Mackenzie Hagerman, Rush Center - Forensic Psychology, third place lower division.Dr. Ziwei Qi, assistant professor of criminal justice - Forensic Psychology, first place; Corrections, first place; Juvenile Justice, second place; Criminal Law, third place, all professional division; Physical Agility, second place, Female 36 +.Morgan Drake, Parker, Colo. - Physical Agility, second place, Female 25 and UnderMadelyn Underwood, Lawrence, scholarly poster competition, first place, graduate division.&nbsp;National Paper Competition - Students earning first through third place receive a cash award, and those earning first place get their paper published in the LAE Journal of the American Criminal Justice Association.Vanessa Diaz, Hays – “Due process vs crime control philosophies of justice,” first place, lower division.Karen Thew, St. George – “Probation conditions: Are offenders being set up to fail?”, second place, upper division.Accacia Pedigo, Great Bend – “Police interactions regarding individuals with mental illness,” third place, graduate division.Madelyn Underwood, Lawrence - “The lack of mental health as a priority in prisons,” first place, graduate division.ACJA/LAE Scholarship, students placing first through third at each level of competition:Vanessa Diaz, Hays, first place, lower division.Harleigh Smith, Concordia, second place, upper division.&nbsp;Karen Thew, St. George, first place, upper division.&nbsp;Madelyn Underwood, Lawrence, first place, graduate division.Students brought home a combined total of $4,100 in cash awards. A group of seven club members and faculty earned second place in the annual talent/lip sync competition.

FHSU student from Great Bend competes at criminal justice conference

If you walk into the gym at the Kirkman Activity Center at Barton
Community College, you will notice 60 banners recognizing the college’s
national championships. Of all the titles, 58 of them are won by the track and
field and cross country programs. 

In early March, the Cougar women’s track and
field team won the NJCAA Indoor National Championship. Less than a month later,
the Barton men’s basketball team won a national title. 

Barton Board of Trustees
Chairman Mike Johnson understands track and field does not always get the
limelight, but the accomplishments are remarkable.


"As a board and administration, we know what a phenomenal program Barton has had in track but you're at a little bit of a disadvantage," said Johnson. "The community can't really get involved because of the situation with no home track meets. All of your events are away from home. It is phenomenal what track has done. As a college community, we are really in awe of what you have accomplished."

The Trustees took time to recognize both the women’s track and field team and
the men’s basketball team at their study session on Tuesday. David Schenek, in
his 15th year as track coach at Barton, has won multiple national
championships with the Cougars.


"I think greatness surrounds greatness," said Schenek. "If we continue to surround all of these teams with more teams that can do the same thing, continue to support these programs and win national titles...why not? Why not have, not just the greatest track team in the country but the greatest basketball program, the greatest athletic department to go along with the greatest community college in the country."

Volleyball is the other Barton sport to win a national championship in 2003.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712779898127.png" alt="Members of the Barton Community College women's track and field and men's basketball teams were recognized by the Barton Board of Trustees on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 for winning recent national championships." />
 <figcaption>Members of the Barton Community College women's track and field and men's basketball teams were recognized by the Barton Board of Trustees on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 for winning recent national championships.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIf you walk into the gym at the Kirkman Activity Center at Barton
Community College, you will notice 60 banners recognizing the college’s
national championships. Of all the titles, 58 of them are won by the track and
field and cross country programs. In early March, the Cougar women’s track and
field team won the NJCAA Indoor National Championship. Less than a month later,
the Barton men’s basketball team won a national title. Barton Board of Trustees
Chairman Mike Johnson understands track and field does not always get the
limelight, but the accomplishments are remarkable.
"As a board and administration, we know what a phenomenal program Barton has had in track but you're at a little bit of a disadvantage," said Johnson. "The community can't really get involved because of the situation with no home track meets. All of your events are away from home. It is phenomenal what track has done. As a college community, we are really in awe of what you have accomplished."The Trustees took time to recognize both the women’s track and field team and
the men’s basketball team at their study session on Tuesday. David Schenek, in
his 15th year as track coach at Barton, has won multiple national
championships with the Cougars.
"I think greatness surrounds greatness," said Schenek. "If we continue to surround all of these teams with more teams that can do the same thing, continue to support these programs and win national titles...why not? Why not have, not just the greatest track team in the country but the greatest basketball program, the greatest athletic department to go along with the greatest community college in the country."Volleyball is the other Barton sport to win a national championship in 2003.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Barton track coach: The more championship teams the merrier 

For about four minutes on Monday, a sliver of the United States got to experience darkness as the moon fully blocked out the sun. In Barton County, the moon covered only about 82 percent of the sun as part of the solar eclipse. That did not halt the fun at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. Educator Mandy Kern said more than 350 visitors and approximately 30 volunteers participated in Monday's watch party.

"We did an activity called Globe Observer, it's a Citizen Science Project," she said. "With that, they wanted us to measure the temperature. An hour before max, we did it every 10 minutes. Thirty minutes before and after the max, we measured it every five minutes. We measured both the temperature and the light intensity."

The results were charted for all to see. The temperature peaked at 68.7 degrees at 1:15 p.m, then dropped to 60 degrees as the eclipse neared its max between 1:43 and 1:54 p.m. By 2:06, the temperature was back to 65.5 degrees.

Light intensity was measured by foot-candles (fc), a measurement that calculates the amount of light that reaches a surface area. Unobstructed sunlight is typically measured at 10,000 fc. Light conditions at KWEC peaked at 8,520 fc at 12:44 p.m, then dwindled to 819 fc at the eclipse max at 1:48. It rebounded to 1,966 fc just 11 minutes later, and was back to 8,709 fc by 3:09. Throughout the observation, the many observers visited the various other stations at the watch party.

"We never know what kind of crowds we're going to get at different events," Kern said. "When we put the effort into planning some of our stations, we definitely appreciate when people come out and participate."

The of totality for Monday's eclipse included major population centers like Dallas, Indianapolis, and Cleveland. More than 50,000 people watched from the darkness at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and another large crowd gathered to see the spectacle at Niagara Falls.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712763227347.jpeg" alt="Two of the 350-plus attendees at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center's watch party gaze up at the solar eclipse Monday." />
 <figcaption>Two of the 350-plus attendees at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center's watch party gaze up at the solar eclipse Monday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFor about four minutes on Monday, a sliver of the United States got to experience darkness as the moon fully blocked out the sun. In Barton County, the moon covered only about 82 percent of the sun as part of the solar eclipse. That did not halt the fun at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. Educator Mandy Kern said more than 350 visitors and approximately 30 volunteers participated in Monday's watch party."We did an activity called Globe Observer, it's a Citizen Science Project," she said. "With that, they wanted us to measure the temperature. An hour before max, we did it every 10 minutes. Thirty minutes before and after the max, we measured it every five minutes. We measured both the temperature and the light intensity."The results were charted for all to see. The temperature peaked at 68.7 degrees at 1:15 p.m, then dropped to 60 degrees as the eclipse neared its max between 1:43 and 1:54 p.m. By 2:06, the temperature was back to 65.5 degrees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712763284211.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Light intensity was measured by foot-candles (fc), a measurement that calculates the amount of light that reaches a surface area. Unobstructed sunlight is typically measured at 10,000 fc. Light conditions at KWEC peaked at 8,520 fc at 12:44 p.m, then dwindled to 819 fc at the eclipse max at 1:48. It rebounded to 1,966 fc just 11 minutes later, and was back to 8,709 fc by 3:09. Throughout the observation, the many observers visited the various other stations at the watch party."We never know what kind of crowds we're going to get at different events," Kern said. "When we put the effort into planning some of our stations, we definitely appreciate when people come out and participate."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712763358439.jpeg" alt="KWEC Volunteer Steve Divis captured a shot of the eclipse using his iPhone and eclipse-viewing glasses." />
 <figcaption>KWEC Volunteer Steve Divis captured a shot of the eclipse using his iPhone and eclipse-viewing glasses.</figcaption>
 </figure>The of totality for Monday's eclipse included major population centers like Dallas, Indianapolis, and Cleveland. More than 50,000 people watched from the darkness at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and another large crowd gathered to see the spectacle at Niagara Falls.

KWEC saw nine-degree temperature drop during solar eclipse

In July 2017, the late Karen Nueforth and Eagle Radio's Steve Webster discussed the significance of the former Lake Barton and why the lake north of Great Bend disappeared on an episode of 1590 KVGB/95.5 FM's "Pages in Time."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In July 2017, the late Karen Nueforth and Eagle Radio's Steve Webster discussed the significance of the former Lake Barton and why the lake north of Great Bend disappeared on an episode of 1590 KVGB/95.5 FM's "Pages in Time."<div><iframe title="Pages in Time with Karen Nueforth - Lake Barton edition" 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=eqpvk-15d9c0b-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>

🎙 Post Podcast: Pages in Time - Lake Barton Edition

From the Barton County Attorney's Office...

On Friday, April 5, Joshua Williams was back in court facing allegations that he had violated the terms and conditions of his probation and committed new crimes. He was on probation in four separate cases having been previously convicted of Violation of a Protective Order, Criminal Threat (two cases), and for Possession of Methamphetamine. 

Subject to the discretion of the judge, he was facing 60 months in prison and an additional 12 months in the Barton County jail. In the oldest case, this was Williams’ 6th probation violation hearing having previously received court ordered sanctions of “time served”, 30 days, 60 days, 30 days, and 45 days in the Barton County jail.

The primary allegation facing Williams was that he committed the new crime Violation of a Protective Order by repeatedly contacting a prior victim, but other allegations included failing to report to corrections, failing to complete a batterer’s intervention program, and continuing to use meth.

After the presentation of evidence, Assistant Barton County Attorney Kyle Byfield asked the court to revoke Williams’ probation and order him to serve his underlying sentences. After hearing the arguments of defense counsel as well as the defendant, the District Court Judge Steve Johnson reinstated the Defendant’s probation, ordered a sanction of 81 days in jail (the time already served), ordered the defendant to obtain a new Drug and Alcohol evaluation, complete batterer’s intervention and extended probation for 12 more months.

The State of Kansas was represented by Kyle Byfield. The defendant was represented by Heather Helvie.

Great Bend – On Monday, April 8, Brayden Powell Rand was back in district court facing allegations that he had violated the terms and conditions of his probation. He was on probation in three separate cases having been previously convicted of Felony Flee and Elude and Possession of Meth (two cases). Subject to the discretion of the Judge, he was facing 35 months in prison. 

In the oldest case, this was Rand’s 5th probation violation hearing having previously received court ordered sanctions of 60 days, 60 days, 30 days, and 30 days in addition to three more 3-day jail sanctions imposed by Community Corrections.

The primary allegation was that Rand had been unsuccessfully discharged from drug treatment and that he continued to use meth.

After the presentation of evidence, Assistant Barton County Attorney Kyle Byfield asked the Court to revoke his probation and order him to serve his underlying sentences. After hearing the arguments of defense counsel and from the defendant as well, District Court Judge Steve Johnson revoked Rand’s probation and ordered him to serve a modified sentence of 19 months in prison (down from the original 35). Rand has served a little over nine months. Not including any good time credit to be awarded by KDOC, has a little over nine months left to serve.

The State of Kansas was represented by Kyle Byfield. The defendant was represented by Richard Boeckman.

From the Barton County Attorney's Office...On Friday, April 5, Joshua Williams was back in court facing allegations that he had violated the terms and conditions of his probation and committed new crimes. He was on probation in four separate cases having been previously convicted of Violation of a Protective Order, Criminal Threat (two cases), and for Possession of Methamphetamine. Subject to the discretion of the judge, he was facing 60 months in prison and an additional 12 months in the Barton County jail. In the oldest case, this was Williams’ 6th probation violation hearing having previously received court ordered sanctions of “time served”, 30 days, 60 days, 30 days, and 45 days in the Barton County jail.The primary allegation facing Williams was that he committed the new crime Violation of a Protective Order by repeatedly contacting a prior victim, but other allegations included failing to report to corrections, failing to complete a batterer’s intervention program, and continuing to use meth.After the presentation of evidence, Assistant Barton County Attorney Kyle Byfield asked the court to revoke Williams’ probation and order him to serve his underlying sentences. After hearing the arguments of defense counsel as well as the defendant, the District Court Judge Steve Johnson reinstated the Defendant’s probation, ordered a sanction of 81 days in jail (the time already served), ordered the defendant to obtain a new Drug and Alcohol evaluation, complete batterer’s intervention and extended probation for 12 more months.The State of Kansas was represented by Kyle Byfield. The defendant was represented by Heather Helvie.***Great Bend – On Monday, April 8, Brayden Powell Rand was back in district court facing allegations that he had violated the terms and conditions of his probation. He was on probation in three separate cases having been previously convicted of Felony Flee and Elude and Possession of Meth (two cases). Subject to the discretion of the Judge, he was facing 35 months in prison. In the oldest case, this was Rand’s 5th probation violation hearing having previously received court ordered sanctions of 60 days, 60 days, 30 days, and 30 days in addition to three more 3-day jail sanctions imposed by Community Corrections.The primary allegation was that Rand had been unsuccessfully discharged from drug treatment and that he continued to use meth.After the presentation of evidence, Assistant Barton County Attorney Kyle Byfield asked the Court to revoke his probation and order him to serve his underlying sentences. After hearing the arguments of defense counsel and from the defendant as well, District Court Judge Steve Johnson revoked Rand’s probation and ordered him to serve a modified sentence of 19 months in prison (down from the original 35). Rand has served a little over nine months. Not including any good time credit to be awarded by KDOC, has a little over nine months left to serve.The State of Kansas was represented by Kyle Byfield. The defendant was represented by Richard Boeckman.

Barton Co. Attorney's Office works probation violation cases

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/10)

At 12:13 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 1062 NW 10
Avenue in Hoisington.

At 5:21 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 50 Avenue.

At 7:19 p.m. a cardiac/respiratory case was reported at 601
Patton Road.

At 7:44 p.m. an accident was reported at 2212 28th
Street.

At 9:20 p.m. an unconscious/fainting case was reported at
1408 Kansas Avenue.

At 11:52 p.m. an accident was reported at W. US 56 Highway
&amp; SW 60 Avenue in Dundee.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/10)

At 12 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 723 ½ Madison
Street.

At 5:18 a.m. a dog in the roadway was reported at 19th
&amp; Lincoln.

At 6:30 a.m. Randi Steinle reported a missing dog.

At 1:24 p.m. an officer served NTAs in reference to no
rabies vaccinations at 1033 Adams Street.

At 1:58 p.m. a dog at large in the area was reported at
Broadway &amp; Washington.

At 3:03 p.m. an accident was reported at 326 C Street.

At 4:35 p.m. an accident was reported at 3909 10th
Street.

At 6:50 p.m. loud music was reported at 3rd
Street &amp; Firethorn Street.

At 7 p.m. an accident was reported at 2212 28th
Street.

At 7:16 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2207 28th
Street.

At 9:35 p.m. loud music complaint was reported at 811 Grant
Street.

At 11:52 p.m. an accident was reported at W. US 56 Highway
&amp; SW 60 Avenue in Dundee and one vehicle left the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (4/10)Traumatic InjuriesAt 12:13 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 1062 NW 10
Avenue in Hoisington.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:21 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 50 Avenue.Cardiac / Respiratory At 7:19 p.m. a cardiac/respiratory case was reported at 601
Patton Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:44 p.m. an accident was reported at 2212 28th
Street.Unconscious / FaintingAt 9:20 p.m. an unconscious/fainting case was reported at
1408 Kansas Avenue.Non-Injury AccidentAt 11:52 p.m. an accident was reported at W. US 56 Highway
&amp; SW 60 Avenue in Dundee.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (4/10)Overdose / PoisoningAt 12 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 723 ½ Madison
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 5:18 a.m. a dog in the roadway was reported at 19th
&amp; Lincoln.At 6:30 a.m. Randi Steinle reported a missing dog.At 1:24 p.m. an officer served NTAs in reference to no
rabies vaccinations at 1033 Adams Street.At 1:58 p.m. a dog at large in the area was reported at
Broadway &amp; Washington.At 3:03 p.m. an accident was reported at 326 C Street.At 4:35 p.m. an accident was reported at 3909 10th
Street.Noise ComplaintAt 6:50 p.m. loud music was reported at 3rd
Street &amp; Firethorn Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7 p.m. an accident was reported at 2212 28th
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 7:16 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2207 28th
Street.Noise ComplaintAt 9:35 p.m. loud music complaint was reported at 811 Grant
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 11:52 p.m. an accident was reported at W. US 56 Highway
&amp; SW 60 Avenue in Dundee and one vehicle left the scene.

Cop Shop (4/10)

4/10 BOOKED: Brayden Powell-Rand on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Steven Robertson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended, Illegal Tag, and No Insurance, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Juan Mendez-Rangel on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Trespass, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Stephen Moore on Barton County District Court warrant on Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Steven Robertson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended, Illegal Tag, and No Insurance, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>4/10 BOOKED: Brayden Powell-Rand on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Steven Robertson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended, Illegal Tag, and No Insurance, bond set at $500 C/S.RELEASED: Juan Mendez-Rangel on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Trespass, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Stephen Moore on Barton County District Court warrant on Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, after posting $2,500 bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Steven Robertson on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended, Illegal Tag, and No Insurance, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (4/10)

Diann Henderson spent 40 years in the parks and recreation industry and
16 years as the executive director at the Great Bend Recreation Commission. She
played a major role in the development of the Activity Center on 18th
Street in Great Bend and the MyBackyard Playground. 

Even with Henderson’s
retirement in 2022, current director Chris Umphres said Henderson volunteers
her time at the facility.


"The MyBackyard Playground was one of Diann's babies," said Umphres. "She was able to add some color to that area. She still comes and does the landscaping and planting beds. It was cool having her back in and doing that project."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712761093693.jpeg" alt="Mural surrounding an electrical box at the MyBackyard Playground in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Mural surrounding an electrical box at the MyBackyard Playground in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostDiann Henderson spent 40 years in the parks and recreation industry and
16 years as the executive director at the Great Bend Recreation Commission. She
played a major role in the development of the Activity Center on 18th
Street in Great Bend and the MyBackyard Playground. Even with Henderson’s
retirement in 2022, current director Chris Umphres said Henderson volunteers
her time at the facility.
"The MyBackyard Playground was one of Diann's babies," said Umphres. "She was able to add some color to that area. She still comes and does the landscaping and planting beds. It was cool having her back in and doing that project."Using cement board with plywood behind it, the Recreation Commission created a
cover to go over a large electrical box outside of the Activity Center.
Henderson designed and painted a mural around the box, which is still accessible
to Wheatland Electric.
"They can lift the panels off," said Umphres. "With the meters now, they don't really need access to read them, it does it digitally. I don't envision them needing to get into it for any reason but it's available."Umphres said there is a sign with Henderson’s name on it and a space is
provided to place the rules of the playground.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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