Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Health Department staff that aired March 21, 2024.

The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 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 County Edition show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Barton County Health Department staff that aired March 21, 2024.<div><iframe title="County Edition: Barton Co. Health Dept. staff" 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=grfh2-15bac0d-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 County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Barton County Health Dept. staff

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Thanksgiving is months away but Kansas residents can now purchase tags for turkey hunting that begins in April. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner reminds hunters of a big change this year.

"As a reminder this year, we've reduced our turkey tag allotment," he said. "It's one bearded bird statewide now. Last year, in certain units, you were able to get a second turkey."

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks uses an adaptive management strategy to determine the number of tags that will be available to hunters and the dates for the season.

"Two years of declining resident hunter success is what kind of determines the number of tags," Wagner said. "It's dropped down again below the threshold so then we reduced our tag numbers for residents to one."

For the first time in years, non-resident turkey hunters were entered into a lottery system. Statewide, there were 11,838 applications submitted and KDWP issued 9,621 tags. The goal of reducing the number of tags is to help future turkey populations.

"It sounds like some places in eastern Kansas have noticed a little bit of a rebound," said Wagner. "It's still pretty light on the turkey numbers, especially around here. They're just now starting to break up. I've seen a couple of small spring flocks but it's still a far cry from what it used to be."

Spring youth and disabled turkey hunting season begins April 1. The archery-only season begins April 8, and the regular rifle season begins April 17 and runs through May 31.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667318379246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThanksgiving is months away but Kansas residents can now purchase tags for turkey hunting that begins in April. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Manager Jason Wagner reminds hunters of a big change this year."As a reminder this year, we've reduced our turkey tag allotment," he said. "It's one bearded bird statewide now. Last year, in certain units, you were able to get a second turkey."The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks uses an adaptive management strategy to determine the number of tags that will be available to hunters and the dates for the season."Two years of declining resident hunter success is what kind of determines the number of tags," Wagner said. "It's dropped down again below the threshold so then we reduced our tag numbers for residents to one."For the first time in years, non-resident turkey hunters were entered into a lottery system. Statewide, there were 11,838 applications submitted and KDWP issued 9,621 tags. The goal of reducing the number of tags is to help future turkey populations."It sounds like some places in eastern Kansas have noticed a little bit of a rebound," said Wagner. "It's still pretty light on the turkey numbers, especially around here. They're just now starting to break up. I've seen a couple of small spring flocks but it's still a far cry from what it used to be."Spring youth and disabled turkey hunting season begins April 1. The archery-only season begins April 8, and the regular rifle season begins April 17 and runs through May 31.

Bottoms Wildlife Manager: Turkey tags now available



While it may not quite be fishing weather yet, the Larned Knights of Columbus can help you get your fish fix. A fish fry will be held March 22 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Larned Columbus Club, 1216 M Road. Dine in or carryout will be available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711030974291.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

While it may not quite be fishing weather yet, the Larned Knights of Columbus can help you get your fish fix. A fish fry will be held March 22 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Larned Columbus Club, 1216 M Road. Dine in or carryout will be available.

Larned Knights of Columbus holding fish fry tonight

Life continues to rebound from the COVID-19 shutdown. For local high school artists, that means the first live VORTEX show at Barton Community College's Shafer Art Gallery since the shutdown. Gallery Director Alyssa Bliven said artwork from several area high school students will be showcased from March 21-28.

"We have Great Bend, Ellinwood, Hoisington, Central Plains, and Larned," she said. "We have drawings, paintings, ceramics, sculpture. We have some jewelry and there's even one woodburning."

Just before the show winds down, the artists will be invited to campus as part of VORTEX Day.

"VORTEX Day is March 27, and that's where we have these students actually come onto campus," Bliven said. "They get to do workshops with our instructors here. We have lunch and an awards ceremony."

Barton Art Instructors Philip Jacobson and Mark Freeman will hand out awards in various mediums, and the gallery will also hand out an award. The student artists will compete in a sidewalk chalk art competition that day, weather permitting. 

The Shafer Art Gallery is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711053110788.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLife continues to rebound from the COVID-19 shutdown. For local high school artists, that means the first live VORTEX show at Barton Community College's Shafer Art Gallery since the shutdown. Gallery Director Alyssa Bliven said artwork from several area high school students will be showcased from March 21-28."We have Great Bend, Ellinwood, Hoisington, Central Plains, and Larned," she said. "We have drawings, paintings, ceramics, sculpture. We have some jewelry and there's even one woodburning."Just before the show winds down, the artists will be invited to campus as part of VORTEX Day."VORTEX Day is March 27, and that's where we have these students actually come onto campus," Bliven said. "They get to do workshops with our instructors here. We have lunch and an awards ceremony."Barton Art Instructors Philip Jacobson and Mark Freeman will hand out awards in various mediums, and the gallery will also hand out an award. The student artists will compete in a sidewalk chalk art competition that day, weather permitting. The Shafer Art Gallery is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free.

VORTEX, high school art returns to BCC's Shafer Art Gallery

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/21)

At 8:44 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 108 1st
Street in Olmitz.

At 8:57 a.m. a theft was reported at 1192 NE 200 Road in
Claflin.

At 12:23 p.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
428 Comanche Road.

At 1:22 p.m. an accident was reported at N. US 281 Highway
at MM 110.9 in Hoisington.

At 1:38 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 638 E.
Lakeview Dr.

At 1:57 p.m. an accident was reported at 31 NE 30 Road.

At 2:41 p.m. an accident was reported at NW 40 Avenue &amp;
K-4 Highway.

At 5:03 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 14 NE 100
Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 10:53 p.m. chest pain was reported at 1146 NE 130 Avenue
in Claflin.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (3/21)

At 7:51 a.m. a two-vehicle accident was reported in the 2700
block of 16th Street.

At 3:49 p.m. loud music in the area was reported at 5844 16th
Street Ter.

At 4:13 p.m. a vehicle swerving was reported at 807 10th
Street.

At 6:06 p.m. an accident was reported at 4100 Broadway
Avenue.

At 9:16 p.m. neighbors having loud music was reported in the
3000 block of 18th Street.

At 10:44 p.m. theft of a license plate was reported at 1204
281 Bypass.

At 11:17 p.m. loud music coming from another room was
reported at 705 10th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/21)Animal ComplaintAt 8:44 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 108 1st
Street in Olmitz.TheftAt 8:57 a.m. a theft was reported at 1192 NE 200 Road in
Claflin.Unconscious / FaintingAt 12:23 p.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
428 Comanche Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 1:22 p.m. an accident was reported at N. US 281 Highway
at MM 110.9 in Hoisington.Traumatic InjuriesAt 1:38 p.m. traumatic injuries were reported at 638 E.
Lakeview Dr.Non-Injury AccidentyAt 1:57 p.m. an accident was reported at 31 NE 30 Road.Injury AccidentAt 2:41 p.m. an accident was reported at NW 40 Avenue &amp;
K-4 Highway.Structure FireAt 5:03 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 14 NE 100
Avenue in Ellinwood.Chest PainAt 10:53 p.m. chest pain was reported at 1146 NE 130 Avenue
in Claflin.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (3/21)Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:51 a.m. a two-vehicle accident was reported in the 2700
block of 16th Street.Noise ComplaintAt 3:49 p.m. loud music in the area was reported at 5844 16th
Street Ter.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:13 p.m. a vehicle swerving was reported at 807 10th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 6:06 p.m. an accident was reported at 4100 Broadway
Avenue.Noise ComplaintAt 9:16 p.m. neighbors having loud music was reported in the
3000 block of 18th Street.TheftAt 10:44 p.m. theft of a license plate was reported at 1204
281 Bypass.Noise ComplaintAt 11:17 p.m. loud music coming from another room was
reported at 705 10th Street.

Cop Shop (3/21)

3/21 BOOKED: Fabian Reyes-Santos on Barton County District Court case for Open Container, bond set at $500 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Ernesto Montez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Joshua Kelly on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $4,000 C/S; and on CKCC Order to Arrest and Detain for Probation Violation, no bond set.

RELEASED: Fabian Reyes-Santos on Barton County District Court case for Open Container, after posting a $500 cash bond.

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

RELEASED: Brady Holuska-Ringo on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.

RELEASED: Ernesto Montez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Tabitha Greathouse on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution of a Stimulant and No Drug Tax Stamp, on $100,000 OR bond.

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

RELEASED: Richard Etim on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Possession of Stimulant, Driving While Suspended, and Unsafe turning or Stopping, on $10,000 OR bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/21 BOOKED: Fabian Reyes-Santos on Barton County District Court case for Open Container, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Tara Bailey on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Ernesto Montez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Joshua Kelly on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $4,000 C/S; and on CKCC Order to Arrest and Detain for Probation Violation, no bond set.RELEASED: Fabian Reyes-Santos on Barton County District Court case for Open Container, after posting a $500 cash bond.RELEASED: Bethany Oxford on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Brady Holuska-Ringo on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Ernesto Montez on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Tabitha Greathouse on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution of a Stimulant and No Drug Tax Stamp, on $100,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Cecil Petrie on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Richard Etim on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Possession of Stimulant, Driving While Suspended, and Unsafe turning or Stopping, on $10,000 OR bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/21)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

After coming up short in the Region VI Championship game
last year, and missing out on the National Tournament, the Barton Community
College men’s basketball team had a three-word message emphasized this
offseason…leave no doubt.



“We fell short last year, and the guys were determined to get it done this year,”
said head coach Jeremy Coombs.



In junior college basketball, only 24 teams make the men’s National Tournament
held in Hutchinson each year. Of those 24 teams, 16 are automatic qualifiers
from winning their district tournament, meaning there are just eight at-large
bids for the entire country that are selected for the National Tournament that do
not win their district title game. 



Even though the Cougars were the #1 team in the country heading into the
District Championship game last weekend in Hutchinson, Barton left no doubt on
their involvement in the National Tournament by defeating Hutchinson Community
College 74-57.



“It’s unbelievable,” said third-year coach Coombs. “We’ve worked so hard to get
to this point. I’m really proud of these guys. They’re resilient. They’re
tough. They’ve worked a long time for this.”



The 2023-2024 season has already been a year of milestones and looking back at
previous records in Barton’s 56-year basketball history. &nbsp;


- At 32-1, Barton has matched their best start in school history set in the 1999-2000
season. - The Cougars’ #1-ranking is the first time on top of the national basketball
poll since 2002. - The current 23-game win streak matches the 4th
longest streak in school history set in 1998. - This year marks the 4th
time in program history with 30 or more wins. - With a 13-0 record in away games,
Barton has recorded the program's best road mark. - With the win against
Hutchinson in the Region VI Championship last weekend, the Cougars have won six
straight games over the Blue Dragons, a feat never accomplished in the
series with Hutch that started in 1970.


“The work we put in throughout the season has paid off,” said sophomore Ring
Malith. “We fell short last year, and we came in with the mindset that we have
to get it for sure.”



After playing in 31 games, including seven starts his freshman year in
2021-2022, Myles Thompson suffered through a bizarre infection before the start
of last season that sent him to the hospital. Thompson eventually earned a
redshirt year and came back for a third season with Barton.



“It’s satisfying when the buzzer goes off at the end of the game, and you have
accomplished a goal that you had when you started the season,” said Thompson.



From Hutchinson, Thompson had 24 points and nine rebounds in his hometown last Saturday. In the last three games playing in Hutchinson,
Thompson has scored 24, 17 and 19 points.



“I was a huge fan of Hutch growing up,” said Thompson. “It’s part of the reason
I went the junior college route because I knew the level of basketball this was
and where it can take guys. It’s motivating to play back in Hutch and prove
that I made the right choice for me to play at Barton.”



The Cougars will be back at the Hutchinson Sports Arena for the NJCAA National
Tournament on Monday, March 25 at 2:30 p.m. As the #1-seed in this year’s
tournament, Barton received a bye and will await an opponent for a “Sweet 16”
game. 



Along with Malith and Thompson, Barton brought back Mozae Downing-Rivers,
Christian Bowen-Webb, Amiri Ndayisaba, Stefan Spray and Cooper Jackson this
year. The Cougars added freshmen Keandre Kindell, Brent Moss, Aleng Bol and
transfers Fawaz Surakat and Lajae Jones.



Jones spent a season at Tarleton State University before transferring to
Barton. The Cougars’ leading scorer (15 PPG) and rebounder (9 RPG) was named
the MVP of the Region VI Tournament and Thompson was selected to the
All-Tournament Team.



“Lajae has been big-time,” said Coombs. “The guys that you expected to step up,
they did that. “We’ve had lots of other guys step up throughout the season.”



This year marks the 5th time Barton has made it to the National
Tournament with previous appearances in 2018, 2001, 1999 and 1991. The Cougars
have an 11-4 record at the National Tournament and have won at least two games
in each appearance.



The last #1-seed to lose their first game at the tournament was Indian Hills in
2018. Barton defeated the previously undefeated Warriors that year in overtime.



“We’re still hungry,” said Malith. “We just have to stay locked in and get back
to work. I know the guys don’t really want to take days off. The guys are
hungry.”


Barton’s game Monday in the National Tournament will be broadcast on 104.3 FM
and online at <a href="https://b1043.net/">b1043.net</a>.

View the 2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship bracket <a href="https://d2o2figo6ddd0g.cloudfront.net/f/e/4ulnpccodhk0gu/2023-24_DI_MBB_Championship_Bracket_-_v1.pdf">HERE</a>.

Previous results of Barton basketball at the NJCAA National Championships

2018 W 86-63 vs Tyler Junior College (TX) W 85-83 OT vs Indian Hills Community College (IA) L 82-80 vs Eastern Florida State

2001 L 90-77 Wabash Valley College (IL) W 67-64 vs Western Nebraska Community College W 111-85 vs Southwest Tennessee Community College W 82-80 vs Northwest Mississippi Community College

1999 W 120-86 vs Aquinas College (TN) W 94-75 vs Bacone College (OK) W 103-90 vs Kennedy-King College (IL) L 100-86 vs Indian Hills Community College (IA)

1991 W 111-86 vs Kaskaskia College (IL) W 101-94 vs Faulkner State Community College (AL) L 105-99 vs Arizona Western College W 98-88 vs Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710971263303.jpeg" alt="Barton Community College celebrated a Region VI Championship on March 16, 2024 with a 74-57 win over Hutchinson and will play in the National Tournament on March 25. (bartonsports.com photo)" />
 <figcaption>Barton Community College celebrated a Region VI Championship on March 16, 2024 with a 74-57 win over Hutchinson and will play in the National Tournament on March 25. (bartonsports.com photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAfter coming up short in the Region VI Championship game
last year, and missing out on the National Tournament, the Barton Community
College men’s basketball team had a three-word message emphasized this
offseason…leave no doubt.

“We fell short last year, and the guys were determined to get it done this year,”
said head coach Jeremy Coombs.

In junior college basketball, only 24 teams make the men’s National Tournament
held in Hutchinson each year. Of those 24 teams, 16 are automatic qualifiers
from winning their district tournament, meaning there are just eight at-large
bids for the entire country that are selected for the National Tournament that do
not win their district title game. 

Even though the Cougars were the #1 team in the country heading into the
District Championship game last weekend in Hutchinson, Barton left no doubt on
their involvement in the National Tournament by defeating Hutchinson Community
College 74-57.

“It’s unbelievable,” said third-year coach Coombs. “We’ve worked so hard to get
to this point. I’m really proud of these guys. They’re resilient. They’re
tough. They’ve worked a long time for this.”

The 2023-2024 season has already been a year of milestones and looking back at
previous records in Barton’s 56-year basketball history. &nbsp;
- At 32-1, Barton has matched their best start in school history set in the 1999-2000
season. - The Cougars’ #1-ranking is the first time on top of the national basketball
poll since 2002. - The current 23-game win streak matches the 4th
longest streak in school history set in 1998. - This year marks the 4th
time in program history with 30 or more wins. - With a 13-0 record in away games,
Barton has recorded the program's best road mark. - With the win against
Hutchinson in the Region VI Championship last weekend, the Cougars have won six
straight games over the Blue Dragons, a feat never accomplished in the
series with Hutch that started in 1970.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/8To1b4tn-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Lajae Jones Dunk - Made With Clipchamp" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>
“The work we put in throughout the season has paid off,” said sophomore Ring
Malith. “We fell short last year, and we came in with the mindset that we have
to get it for sure.”

After playing in 31 games, including seven starts his freshman year in
2021-2022, Myles Thompson suffered through a bizarre infection before the start
of last season that sent him to the hospital. Thompson eventually earned a
redshirt year and came back for a third season with Barton.

“It’s satisfying when the buzzer goes off at the end of the game, and you have
accomplished a goal that you had when you started the season,” said Thompson.

From Hutchinson, Thompson had 24 points and nine rebounds in his hometown last Saturday. In the last three games playing in Hutchinson,
Thompson has scored 24, 17 and 19 points.

“I was a huge fan of Hutch growing up,” said Thompson. “It’s part of the reason
I went the junior college route because I knew the level of basketball this was
and where it can take guys. It’s motivating to play back in Hutch and prove
that I made the right choice for me to play at Barton.”

The Cougars will be back at the Hutchinson Sports Arena for the NJCAA National
Tournament on Monday, March 25 at 2:30 p.m. As the #1-seed in this year’s
tournament, Barton received a bye and will await an opponent for a “Sweet 16”
game. 

Along with Malith and Thompson, Barton brought back Mozae Downing-Rivers,
Christian Bowen-Webb, Amiri Ndayisaba, Stefan Spray and Cooper Jackson this
year. The Cougars added freshmen Keandre Kindell, Brent Moss, Aleng Bol and
transfers Fawaz Surakat and Lajae Jones.

Jones spent a season at Tarleton State University before transferring to
Barton. The Cougars’ leading scorer (15 PPG) and rebounder (9 RPG) was named
the MVP of the Region VI Tournament and Thompson was selected to the
All-Tournament Team.

“Lajae has been big-time,” said Coombs. “The guys that you expected to step up,
they did that. “We’ve had lots of other guys step up throughout the season.”

This year marks the 5th time Barton has made it to the National
Tournament with previous appearances in 2018, 2001, 1999 and 1991. The Cougars
have an 11-4 record at the National Tournament and have won at least two games
in each appearance.

The last #1-seed to lose their first game at the tournament was Indian Hills in
2018. Barton defeated the previously undefeated Warriors that year in overtime.

“We’re still hungry,” said Malith. “We just have to stay locked in and get back
to work. I know the guys don’t really want to take days off. The guys are
hungry.”

Barton’s game Monday in the National Tournament will be broadcast on 104.3 FM
and online at <a href="https://b1043.net/">b1043.net</a>.View the 2024 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship bracket <a href="https://d2o2figo6ddd0g.cloudfront.net/f/e/4ulnpccodhk0gu/2023-24_DI_MBB_Championship_Bracket_-_v1.pdf">HERE</a>.Previous results of Barton basketball at the NJCAA National Championships2018 W 86-63 vs Tyler Junior College (TX) W 85-83 OT vs Indian Hills Community College (IA) L 82-80 vs Eastern Florida State2001 L 90-77 Wabash Valley College (IL) W 67-64 vs Western Nebraska Community College W 111-85 vs Southwest Tennessee Community College W 82-80 vs Northwest Mississippi Community College1999 W 120-86 vs Aquinas College (TN) W 94-75 vs Bacone College (OK) W 103-90 vs Kennedy-King College (IL) L 100-86 vs Indian Hills Community College (IA)1991 W 111-86 vs Kaskaskia College (IL) W 101-94 vs Faulkner State Community College (AL) L 105-99 vs Arizona Western College W 98-88 vs Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

Barton trying to ‘leave no doubt’ as they prep for National Tournament

Today Patchy fog before 10 a.m. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 57. Breezy, with a west wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north 20 to 25 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 28. East-northeast wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 55. Breezy, with a southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.

Saturday Night A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 20 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Sunday A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10 a.m., then a chance of showers between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. Windy, with a south wind 29 to 34 mph, with gusts as high as 55 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Sunday Night A chance of rain showers before 4 a.m., then a slight chance of rain and snow showers. Some thunder is also possible. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30. Windy. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Monday A slight chance of rain and snow before 7 a.m., then a slight chance of snow between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 42. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. Blustery.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 47.

Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 23.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 35.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Patchy fog before 10 a.m. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 57. Breezy, with a west wind 8 to 13 mph becoming north 20 to 25 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 34 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 28. East-northeast wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 55. Breezy, with a southeast wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 16 to 21 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.Saturday Night A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44. Breezy, with a south-southeast wind 20 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 41 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.Sunday A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10 a.m., then a chance of showers between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. Windy, with a south wind 29 to 34 mph, with gusts as high as 55 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.Sunday Night A chance of rain showers before 4 a.m., then a slight chance of rain and snow showers. Some thunder is also possible. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30. Windy. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Monday A slight chance of rain and snow before 7 a.m., then a slight chance of snow between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 42. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. Blustery.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 47.Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 23.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 56.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 35.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

When my wife and I went to vote last Tuesday, the polling station was nearly empty. One of the election workers told me it was the least busy election she’d ever seen, and as a political junkie, that did make me a little sad. Not sad enough to wish things had been entirely different, though.

Not that the results of the first state-wide presidential primary held in more than 30 years covered Kansas voters with glory. Overall, barely over 8% of all registered Democrats in the whole state participated, with the Republicans doing only slightly better, with not quite 11% turning out. Cleary, Kansas voters weren’t fired up by the choices available to them.

But then, no one expected them to be. President Biden and Donald Trump had already secured more than enough delegates to win their parties’ presidential nominations. So what substantive reason was there to participate, anyway? Why did my wife and I, along with thousands of others?

First, because the substantive results aren’t the whole story; sometimes, voters have symbolic goals in mind. Some Republicans wanted to run up Trump’s totals as show of support in the midst of all his legal penalties and controversies. (He received 75% of the Republican vote, which wasn’t a record.) And some Democrats cast protest votes as a way of communicating their disapproval of some of Biden’s policy choices. (About 10% of Democrats chose “None of these names”; Biden won 84%.) But second, there is also the civic value of the procedure itself.

True, the civic process of this primary election was pretty tame. Some, including Governor Laura Kelly, have talked wistfully about how they prefer the “energy and excitement” of the caucus system of selecting presidential delegates, with voters and activists and party leaders crowding into rooms at an appointed date and time, arguing and yelling, sometimes literally pulling on one another as supporters of different candidates line up and get counted.

I attended the Democratic presidential caucuses in Kansas in 2008 and 2016, and the Kansas Republican caucus in 2012, and I agree—the level of engagement on display there is appealing. But with blocks of voters shouting down their opponents, making the halls that parties rent out to handle the crush of voters who show up confusing and cacophonous, the process is alienating as well—and not good for those who are in the minority, yet still have a symbolic stand they wish to take.

In truth, caucuses emerged in the context of a more rural and spatially intact political environment; for all the direct democracy caucuses supposedly provide, in our more divided and urban social contexts, allowing for simple voting in a statewide primary makes more sense.

Except, of course, that if it comes down to just casting a ballot for a preferred candidate, you’re only going to get a large turnout if the results are expected to have an impact.

Moving the Kansas primary earlier in the election year calendar would make some difference; adding our state to the 16 others that vote on Super Tuesday, inching the country closer to an unofficial nation-wide presidential primary, might make even more.

Either way, though, I was glad for this primary, and I hope the legislature will organize it again in four years’ time. True, a straight-up primary vote isn’t an exciting, participatory democratic process, and this year was especially predictable. But giving citizens broadly the chance to democratically express themselves doesn’t have to be exciting; sometimes, it just needs to be.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt="written by:&nbsp;Dr. Russell Arben Fox - politics teacher at Friends University in Wichita" />
 <figcaption>written by:&nbsp;Dr. Russell Arben Fox - politics teacher at Friends University in Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>When my wife and I went to vote last Tuesday, the polling station was nearly empty. One of the election workers told me it was the least busy election she’d ever seen, and as a political junkie, that did make me a little sad. Not sad enough to wish things had been entirely different, though.Not that the results of the first state-wide presidential primary held in more than 30 years covered Kansas voters with glory. Overall, barely over 8% of all registered Democrats in the whole state participated, with the Republicans doing only slightly better, with not quite 11% turning out. Cleary, Kansas voters weren’t fired up by the choices available to them.But then, no one expected them to be. President Biden and Donald Trump had already secured more than enough delegates to win their parties’ presidential nominations. So what substantive reason was there to participate, anyway? Why did my wife and I, along with thousands of others?First, because the substantive results aren’t the whole story; sometimes, voters have symbolic goals in mind. Some Republicans wanted to run up Trump’s totals as show of support in the midst of all his legal penalties and controversies. (He received 75% of the Republican vote, which wasn’t a record.) And some Democrats cast protest votes as a way of communicating their disapproval of some of Biden’s policy choices. (About 10% of Democrats chose “None of these names”; Biden won 84%.) But second, there is also the civic value of the procedure itself.True, the civic process of this primary election was pretty tame. Some, including Governor Laura Kelly, have talked wistfully about how they prefer the “energy and excitement” of the caucus system of selecting presidential delegates, with voters and activists and party leaders crowding into rooms at an appointed date and time, arguing and yelling, sometimes literally pulling on one another as supporters of different candidates line up and get counted.I attended the Democratic presidential caucuses in Kansas in 2008 and 2016, and the Kansas Republican caucus in 2012, and I agree—the level of engagement on display there is appealing. But with blocks of voters shouting down their opponents, making the halls that parties rent out to handle the crush of voters who show up confusing and cacophonous, the process is alienating as well—and not good for those who are in the minority, yet still have a symbolic stand they wish to take.In truth, caucuses emerged in the context of a more rural and spatially intact political environment; for all the direct democracy caucuses supposedly provide, in our more divided and urban social contexts, allowing for simple voting in a statewide primary makes more sense.Except, of course, that if it comes down to just casting a ballot for a preferred candidate, you’re only going to get a large turnout if the results are expected to have an impact.Moving the Kansas primary earlier in the election year calendar would make some difference; adding our state to the 16 others that vote on Super Tuesday, inching the country closer to an unofficial nation-wide presidential primary, might make even more.Either way, though, I was glad for this primary, and I hope the legislature will organize it again in four years’ time. True, a straight-up primary vote isn’t an exciting, participatory democratic process, and this year was especially predictable. But giving citizens broadly the chance to democratically express themselves doesn’t have to be exciting; sometimes, it just needs to be.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Why uneventful primaries are better than raucous caucuses

Colin Reynolds spent the brunt of his young legal career - just a few days short of five years - as an assistant prosecutor with the Barton County Attorney's Office. When Miami County Attorney Elizabeth Sweeney-Reeder was appointed as a judge 14 months ago, Reynolds moved to Paola to fill out the final half of her term. With more experience under his belt, Reynolds is the first candidate to file for the job of Barton County attorney.

"I have a much stronger understanding of the management and administrative side of things," he said. "There are a lot of tasks you just don't think about when you're a line prosecutor that you have to think about when you're the elected. Certainly, also not just having myself to worry about but also having subordinate attorneys I have to supervise, train, and keep an eye on their caseloads as well to make sure no one is burning out or getting overwhelmed."

A lifelong Kansan, Reynolds earned his law degree from Washburn University in Topeka. He became a prosecutor to help residents and play his role in keeping the justice system fair.

In December 2022, Miami County Republican Party delegates voted 32-12 to choose him for the county attorney job over another nominee. Reynolds will appear on the ballot in the Republican primary scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689695775554.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostColin Reynolds spent the brunt of his young legal career - just a few days short of five years - as an assistant prosecutor with the Barton County Attorney's Office. When Miami County Attorney Elizabeth Sweeney-Reeder was appointed as a judge 14 months ago, Reynolds moved to Paola to fill out the final half of her term. With more experience under his belt, Reynolds is the first candidate to file for the job of Barton County attorney."I have a much stronger understanding of the management and administrative side of things," he said. "There are a lot of tasks you just don't think about when you're a line prosecutor that you have to think about when you're the elected. Certainly, also not just having myself to worry about but also having subordinate attorneys I have to supervise, train, and keep an eye on their caseloads as well to make sure no one is burning out or getting overwhelmed."A lifelong Kansan, Reynolds earned his law degree from Washburn University in Topeka. He became a prosecutor to help residents and play his role in keeping the justice system fair.In December 2022, Miami County Republican Party delegates voted 32-12 to choose him for the county attorney job over another nominee. Reynolds will appear on the ballot in the Republican primary scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6.

Former assistant prosecutor running for Barton Co. Attorney job

Last Thursday, the Barton County Planning Commission voted to recommend the approval of two new structures located off US-56 Highway near Dundee. Per statute, a 14-day protest period must pass before the Barton County Board of Commissioners can vote on that recommendation. In a study session with the board of commissioners Tuesday morning, Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham said there may be a formal protest from neighboring landowner Stephanie Turner.

"She sent me an email Friday night," Goreham said. "She wants to protest the project. After talking with (County Counselor Patrick Hoffman), we confirmed that, to do that, she has to have a 20 percent majority of the landowners within 1,000 feet sign a petition and file that with the county clerk."

If the official protest is completed within the 14-day period, the board of commissioners would then need a supermajority (4-1) vote to approve the planning board's recommendation to approve the project.

The two structures would be part of a small-scale,  24-hour seed and fertilizer retail business located at 528 Southwest 30 Road. The two main concerns raised at last Thursday's public hearing on the matter involved increased traffic in the area and groundwater contamination. Grant Moon with Mid America Seed, LLC, addressed each of those concerns during the hearing Thursday and again Tuesday morning.

"On the scale of fertilizer plants, this is small," Moon said. "This isn't a million-gallon tank sitting out there where we're expecting 20-40 trucks a day or anything like that. This is just a small scale that will, one, service ILS Farms, and two, increase our ag retail business by being able to offer the services to people outside ILS Farms."

County officials said they are not concerned with any increases in traffic in the area, and any traffic studies on the highway would have to come from the Kansas Department of Transportation since US-56 is state-controlled. 

At last Thursday's planning commission hearing, Planning Commissioner Rusty Carson confirmed with Turner that Innovative Livestock Services (ILS) purchased the land involved in the project from Turner Farms last November with no covenants or restrictions. Turner confirmed it was not sold with covenants that prevented building.

The board of commissioners can vote on the recommendation for the project on April 2 following the 14-day protest period.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710510972608.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLast Thursday, the Barton County Planning Commission voted to recommend the approval of two new structures located off US-56 Highway near Dundee. Per statute, a 14-day protest period must pass before the Barton County Board of Commissioners can vote on that recommendation. In a study session with the board of commissioners Tuesday morning, Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham said there may be a formal protest from neighboring landowner Stephanie Turner."She sent me an email Friday night," Goreham said. "She wants to protest the project. After talking with (County Counselor Patrick Hoffman), we confirmed that, to do that, she has to have a 20 percent majority of the landowners within 1,000 feet sign a petition and file that with the county clerk."If the official protest is completed within the 14-day period, the board of commissioners would then need a supermajority (4-1) vote to approve the planning board's recommendation to approve the project.The two structures would be part of a small-scale, 24-hour seed and fertilizer retail business located at 528 Southwest 30 Road. The two main concerns raised at last Thursday's public hearing on the matter involved increased traffic in the area and groundwater contamination. Grant Moon with Mid America Seed, LLC, addressed each of those concerns during the hearing Thursday and again Tuesday morning."On the scale of fertilizer plants, this is small," Moon said. "This isn't a million-gallon tank sitting out there where we're expecting 20-40 trucks a day or anything like that. This is just a small scale that will, one, service ILS Farms, and two, increase our ag retail business by being able to offer the services to people outside ILS Farms."County officials said they are not concerned with any increases in traffic in the area, and any traffic studies on the highway would have to come from the Kansas Department of Transportation since US-56 is state-controlled. At last Thursday's planning commission hearing, Planning Commissioner Rusty Carson confirmed with Turner that Innovative Livestock Services (ILS) purchased the land involved in the project from Turner Farms last November with no covenants or restrictions. Turner confirmed it was not sold with covenants that prevented building.The board of commissioners can vote on the recommendation for the project on April 2 following the 14-day protest period.

Barton landowner considering protest on new structures located near Dundee

Last year, the Barton County Commission approved several projects under its Façade Improvement Grant Program. Deadlines for the completion of those projects, set a year out after approval, are quickly approaching. Tuesday morning, County Administrator Matt Patzner asked the board to extend the deadline to Dec. 31 for approximately a dozen projects still under construction.

"We've reached out to some of these applicants," he said. "It seems like a main theme in some of the delays and why they're not done yet had to do with the hail storm in July. That really set things back. We were already dealing with supply chain issues before that. That seemed to amplify everything."

Prior to approving the deadline extension, the commission recognized Treasurer Jim Jordan for savvy accounting that yielded $1.32 million in interest for the county in 2023. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said money for these projects will continue to benefit the county even with an extension.

"I think one of the super important things for us to understand is this money is still in Barton County," he said. "We still have the money. Even though we've allocated it to these projects, it's still in a CD somewhere drawing interest. It's not hurting us by extending these."

The Façade Improvement Grant Program helped many business owners update their building's physical appearance along the main business corridors in Great Bend, Hoisington, Claflin, and Ellinwood.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642619756471.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostLast year, the Barton County Commission approved several projects under its Façade Improvement Grant Program. Deadlines for the completion of those projects, set a year out after approval, are quickly approaching. Tuesday morning, County Administrator Matt Patzner asked the board to extend the deadline to Dec. 31 for approximately a dozen projects still under construction."We've reached out to some of these applicants," he said. "It seems like a main theme in some of the delays and why they're not done yet had to do with the hail storm in July. That really set things back. We were already dealing with supply chain issues before that. That seemed to amplify everything."Prior to approving the deadline extension, the commission recognized Treasurer Jim Jordan for savvy accounting that yielded $1.32 million in interest for the county in 2023. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson said money for these projects will continue to benefit the county even with an extension."I think one of the super important things for us to understand is this money is still in Barton County," he said. "We still have the money. Even though we've allocated it to these projects, it's still in a CD somewhere drawing interest. It's not hurting us by extending these."The Façade Improvement Grant Program helped many business owners update their building's physical appearance along the main business corridors in Great Bend, Hoisington, Claflin, and Ellinwood.

 Barton Commission approves extension on Facade Improvements

K-State’s Wiles encourages parents to reduce children’s screen time &nbsp; &nbsp;By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan. – In the United States, screens are everywhere. Televisions, laptops, tablets, electronic bulletin boards and – of course – cell phones.

“Yet, what we know about positive childhood development,” said K-State Research and Extension child development specialist Bradford Wiles, “is that screens are not very helpful. Often, they are simply a mindless activity that doesn’t grow children’s brains or their social-emotional or physical development.”

Many healthcare authorities and pediatricians – among them the American Academy of Pediatrics – have published guidelines indicating children under age 2 should have no screen time, while everyone else should limit screen time outside of work or school to 1-2 hours per day.

Wiles, who has authored a K-State Research and Extension publication on the topic, says that there is an “opportunity cost” associated with screen time. “If you’re engaging in screen time, you’re not doing things that can help you with skill building in multiple domains – physical, mental and social.”

Screens, he said, are often substituted for babysitters, or a break for parents or other caregivers to get other tasks done.

“If that’s for a limited time, that’s fine; I understand the need to perform your household duties,” Wiles said. “You’re not harming your child by doing that, but be mindful of how much time is going by and do your very best to make up for that by being intentional in engaging with your children before and after screen time.”

Wiles is careful to indicate that technology, itself, is not the problem. “The problem is when you use that tool to isolate yourself or your children,” he said.

“If that tool is being used for engagement, then great. That is how children of all ages learn…through dialogue, discussion and shared experience. The ability to talk, and learn with and from each other is really a benefit to human development.”

Other things to keep in mind, according to Wiles, include:

Families with very young children Screen time should be severely limited for those under age 2 – ideally they should have none. Wiles said screen time is not nearly as stimulating as interaction with other humans. Spend time playing with young children instead.

Families with children ages 6-17 Establish “screen free” zones in the home, including bedrooms. It may seem like punishment – and difficult to enforce – but the payoffs are great. If families choose to incorporate more screens into their lives, seek ways to use them in active ways, such as singing or dancing along to a favorite music video.

Family fun Tablets and smartphones may provide an opportunity for families to play interactive games, such as puzzles. Less-skilled family members learn more by asking questions, receiving instruction and getting feedback.

Whole family screen time Decide in advance what you will view as a family. Avoid watching TV during meals or leaving the TV on for background noise. In addition, avoid texting or talking on a phone during meals or when outside with your family.

More information on child development is available online from K-State Research and Extension.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State’s Wiles encourages parents to reduce children’s screen time &nbsp; &nbsp;By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news serviceMANHATTAN, Kan. – In the United States, screens are everywhere. Televisions, laptops, tablets, electronic bulletin boards and – of course – cell phones.“Yet, what we know about positive childhood development,” said K-State Research and Extension child development specialist Bradford Wiles, “is that screens are not very helpful. Often, they are simply a mindless activity that doesn’t grow children’s brains or their social-emotional or physical development.”Many healthcare authorities and pediatricians – among them the American Academy of Pediatrics – have published guidelines indicating children under age 2 should have no screen time, while everyone else should limit screen time outside of work or school to 1-2 hours per day.Wiles, who has authored a K-State Research and Extension publication on the topic, says that there is an “opportunity cost” associated with screen time. “If you’re engaging in screen time, you’re not doing things that can help you with skill building in multiple domains – physical, mental and social.”Screens, he said, are often substituted for babysitters, or a break for parents or other caregivers to get other tasks done.“If that’s for a limited time, that’s fine; I understand the need to perform your household duties,” Wiles said. “You’re not harming your child by doing that, but be mindful of how much time is going by and do your very best to make up for that by being intentional in engaging with your children before and after screen time.”Wiles is careful to indicate that technology, itself, is not the problem. “The problem is when you use that tool to isolate yourself or your children,” he said.“If that tool is being used for engagement, then great. That is how children of all ages learn…through dialogue, discussion and shared experience. The ability to talk, and learn with and from each other is really a benefit to human development.”Other things to keep in mind, according to Wiles, include:Families with very young children Screen time should be severely limited for those under age 2 – ideally they should have none. Wiles said screen time is not nearly as stimulating as interaction with other humans. Spend time playing with young children instead.Families with children ages 6-17 Establish “screen free” zones in the home, including bedrooms. It may seem like punishment – and difficult to enforce – but the payoffs are great. If families choose to incorporate more screens into their lives, seek ways to use them in active ways, such as singing or dancing along to a favorite music video.Family fun Tablets and smartphones may provide an opportunity for families to play interactive games, such as puzzles. Less-skilled family members learn more by asking questions, receiving instruction and getting feedback.Whole family screen time Decide in advance what you will view as a family. Avoid watching TV during meals or leaving the TV on for background noise. In addition, avoid texting or talking on a phone during meals or when outside with your family.More information on child development is available online from K-State Research and Extension.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Down time from screen tme?

For the last several weeks, Great Bend city administration has been
working on an ordinance that brings more organization to the city’s right of
way management. With increasing technology, especially fiber optics, the city’s
utility right of way are becoming occupied by more utility providers. The space
is becoming more crowded. 

The city has worked with the Public Works department,
along with local utility providers, to regulate work done in the right of way,
or easements. Ed Crist, representing Kansas Gas Service, was satisfied with the
new ordinance approved at Monday's Great Bend City Council meeting.


"This ordinance is very comprehensive and well written," said Crist. "Hats off to everybody involved with it. We asked for some minor tweaks to it, and everybody has been really receptive to it. I think it will be a good ordinance for the city."

City administration looked at how several other cities have handled the issue
of utility right of way getting crowded. The new ordinance will place specific
regulations that protect the city if a provider is not compliant with
requirements.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710876150272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostFor the last several weeks, Great Bend city administration has been
working on an ordinance that brings more organization to the city’s right of
way management. With increasing technology, especially fiber optics, the city’s
utility right of way are becoming occupied by more utility providers. The space
is becoming more crowded. The city has worked with the Public Works department,
along with local utility providers, to regulate work done in the right of way,
or easements. Ed Crist, representing Kansas Gas Service, was satisfied with the
new ordinance approved at Monday's Great Bend City Council meeting.
"This ordinance is very comprehensive and well written," said Crist. "Hats off to everybody involved with it. We asked for some minor tweaks to it, and everybody has been really receptive to it. I think it will be a good ordinance for the city."City administration looked at how several other cities have handled the issue
of utility right of way getting crowded. The new ordinance will place specific
regulations that protect the city if a provider is not compliant with
requirements.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend’s right of way getting crowded, ordinance established

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Great Bend Property Maintenance Officer Jaimie Wintholz that aired March 20, 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 Property Maintenance Officer Jaimie Wintholz that aired March 20, 2024.<div><iframe title="City Edition: Great Bend Property Maintenance Officer Jaimie Wintholz" 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=4ren7-15b5c68-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: GB Property Maintenance Officer Jaimie Wintholz

Multiple public complaints had been called in after a structure fire
destroyed the house at 5714 Rosewood in Great Bend last June. On Monday, Great
Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said the city has done a visual
inspection of the house and a fire report shows damage throughout the garage.


Unfortunately for the city, demolition of the house will more than likely fall
upon them.


"Stone Sand did pull a demolition permit on that in August 2023 to demolish that house," said Burns. "Since then, the homeowners have left the area. We've tried calling them with no success. Without payment, Stone Sand isn't going to do the demolition."

Smoke went throughout the house from broken windows and a ventilation hole in
the roof. The garage door is still open and is not secure from entry. 


The Great Bend City Council voted to set a public hearing for the dangerous
structure on May 6 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Following the public
hearing, the council will decide if demolition is needed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710868492626.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostMultiple public complaints had been called in after a structure fire
destroyed the house at 5714 Rosewood in Great Bend last June. On Monday, Great
Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said the city has done a visual
inspection of the house and a fire report shows damage throughout the garage.
Unfortunately for the city, demolition of the house will more than likely fall
upon them.
"Stone Sand did pull a demolition permit on that in August 2023 to demolish that house," said Burns. "Since then, the homeowners have left the area. We've tried calling them with no success. Without payment, Stone Sand isn't going to do the demolition."Smoke went throughout the house from broken windows and a ventilation hole in
the roof. The garage door is still open and is not secure from entry. 
The Great Bend City Council voted to set a public hearing for the dangerous
structure on May 6 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Following the public
hearing, the council will decide if demolition is needed.

Great Bend council considers destroying house damaged by fire

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/20)

At 10:48 a.m. a driving complaint was reported in the 500
block of W. 56 Highway.

At 12:12 p.m. a fire was reported at SE 120 Avenue &amp; SE
20 Road.

At 12:26 p.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 1416
Kansas Avenue.

At 12:56 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1162 SE
30 Road in Ellinwood.

At 5:52 p.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 1223
Park Avenue.

At 9:46 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at Railroad &amp;
McKinley.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (3/20)

At 2:27 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2309
Franklin Street.

At 9:17 a.m. an accident was reported at 2920 10th
Street.

At 12:43 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.

At 2:46 p.m. theft of items from the business was reported
at 1212 Main Street.

At 3:01 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 700 Stone Street.

At 3:09 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 15 SW 40
Avenue.

At 7:11 p.m. a dog bite was reported at 9th &amp;
Baker.

At 9:46 p.m. assisted BTSO on a traffic stop at Railroad
&amp; McKinley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/20)Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:48 a.m. a driving complaint was reported in the 500
block of W. 56 Highway.FireAt 12:12 p.m. a fire was reported at SE 120 Avenue &amp; SE
20 Road.Missing Person / RunawayAt 12:26 p.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 1416
Kansas Avenue.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 12:56 p.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1162 SE
30 Road in Ellinwood.Missing Person / RunawayAt 5:52 p.m. a missing person/runaway was reported at 1223
Park Avenue.Traffic ArrestAt 9:46 p.m. a traffic arrest was reported at Railroad &amp;
McKinley.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (3/20)Animal ComplaintAt 2:27 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2309
Franklin Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 9:17 a.m. an accident was reported at 2920 10th
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 10:48 a.m. a driving complaint was reported in the 500
block of W. 56 Highway.Traumatic InjuriesAt 12:43 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.TheftAt 2:46 p.m. theft of items from the business was reported
at 1212 Main Street.StrokeAt 3:01 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 700 Stone Street.Structure FireAt 3:09 p.m. a structure fire was reported at 15 SW 40
Avenue.Animal ComplaintAt 7:11 p.m. a dog bite was reported at 9th &amp;
Baker.Traffic ArrestAt 9:46 p.m. assisted BTSO on a traffic stop at Railroad
&amp; McKinley.

Cop Shop (3/20)

3/20 BOOKED: Rylie Morgenstern on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Tessa Koeppen-Dunn on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Richard Etim on Barton County District Court case for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Driving While Suspended, and No Turn Signal, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Ashley Smith on Ellinwood Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S or 18-hour OR.

BOOKED: Lia Weber on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on Trego County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S; and on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Rylie Morgenstern on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Harley Thomasson on Buffalo County District Court warrant for Criminal Non-Support of Child, transported by Buffalo County Sheriff's Office.

RELEASED: Tessa Koeppen-Dunn on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: John Debeau on Barton County District Court case for Burglary and Criminal Damage to Property, on $20,000 OR bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/20 BOOKED: Rylie Morgenstern on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Bethany Oxford on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Tessa Koeppen-Dunn on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Richard Etim on Barton County District Court case for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Driving While Suspended, and No Turn Signal, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Mark Vazquez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Ashley Smith on Ellinwood Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S or 18-hour OR.BOOKED: Lia Weber on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on Trego County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Paraphernalia, bond set at $2,500 C/S; and on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Rylie Morgenstern on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Harley Thomasson on Buffalo County District Court warrant for Criminal Non-Support of Child, transported by Buffalo County Sheriff's Office.RELEASED: Tessa Koeppen-Dunn on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: John Debeau on Barton County District Court case for Burglary and Criminal Damage to Property, on $20,000 OR bond.RELEASED: Aric Untereiner Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting a $583 cash bond.

Local