By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

At a meeting earlier this month, the Great Bend City Council held a
public hearing for a deteriorating accessory building at 2421 12th
Street. The council voted to tear the building down if repairs are not
completed by early April. 

An inspection was conducted on the house at the same
location during a search warrant by the Barton County Sheriff’s Office. Great
Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said multiple electrical boxes
have exposed wiring and mold was noted in the living room ceiling.


"Currently, there are no utilities to the structure," said Burns. "We have multiple makeshift wood-burning stoves inside. During the search warrant, somebody was arrested for actually living inside one of these rooms that the stove was in."

The exterior shows shingles missing, windows boarded up and the front porch
deteriorating. 


"You'll see where the foundation is just open to any moisture," said Burns. "There was a white cooler that had feces inside of it that they thrown on top of the roof during the course of the investigation on the search warrant."

The council passed a resolution Monday night to set a public hearing for the
dangerous structure on May 6 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710867295547.jpeg" alt="2421 12th Street" />
 <figcaption>2421 12th Street</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt a meeting earlier this month, the Great Bend City Council held a
public hearing for a deteriorating accessory building at 2421 12th
Street. The council voted to tear the building down if repairs are not
completed by early April. An inspection was conducted on the house at the same
location during a search warrant by the Barton County Sheriff’s Office. Great
Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns said multiple electrical boxes
have exposed wiring and mold was noted in the living room ceiling.
"Currently, there are no utilities to the structure," said Burns. "We have multiple makeshift wood-burning stoves inside. During the search warrant, somebody was arrested for actually living inside one of these rooms that the stove was in."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710867324106.jpeg" alt="2421 12th Street" />
 <figcaption>2421 12th Street</figcaption>
 </figure>The exterior shows shingles missing, windows boarded up and the front porch
deteriorating. 
"You'll see where the foundation is just open to any moisture," said Burns. "There was a white cooler that had feces inside of it that they thrown on top of the roof during the course of the investigation on the search warrant."The council passed a resolution Monday night to set a public hearing for the
dangerous structure on May 6 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710867370754.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Another dangerous structure on 12th Street in Great Bend

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

There have been many bumps in the road for county attorneys in Kansas over the last three years. COVID-19 and the resulting quarantines shut down jury trials around the state in 2020. In Barton County, the county attorney's office had to move its offices due to the HVAC Renovation Project. County Attorney Levi Morris said there have been no jury trials since the move to a temporary office last year. That's about to change with a full staff now.

"The temporary courthouse isn't really the reason we haven't done any," he said. "It's been our shortage. The biggest impact is we're going to get back to doing them. We have a slate of jury trials scheduled all the way to August."

A jury trial was scheduled at the temporary district court facility on Main Street in Great Bend last month, but it was canceled by an ill defense attorney at the last minute.

"We were going home on a Friday thinking we were going to have a jury trial on a Monday," Morris said, "then we get the email over the weekend that said, 'Nope. Sorry. Can't do it.' You can't argue with a quarantine order, can you?"

Defendants have a constitutional right to a speedy trial. With COVID restrictions, that timeline has been suspended since March 19, 2020, but a recent bill passed by the Kansas legislature reinstated that deadline on March 1.

"There's a date in a case where, after that, you have to bring somebody to trial within 150 days or 180, so you get five or six months," said Morris. "If they request a delay, it stops the clock but the state has an obligation to get them done."

Morris said that timeline seems like a lengthy one but with two courtrooms in Barton County, it can be tricky to get everything scheduled. A full-sized staff, he said, will make managing any issues easier.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702678815334.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThere have been many bumps in the road for county attorneys in Kansas over the last three years. COVID-19 and the resulting quarantines shut down jury trials around the state in 2020. In Barton County, the county attorney's office had to move its offices due to the HVAC Renovation Project. County Attorney Levi Morris said there have been no jury trials since the move to a temporary office last year. That's about to change with a full staff now."The temporary courthouse isn't really the reason we haven't done any," he said. "It's been our shortage. The biggest impact is we're going to get back to doing them. We have a slate of jury trials scheduled all the way to August."A jury trial was scheduled at the temporary district court facility on Main Street in Great Bend last month, but it was canceled by an ill defense attorney at the last minute."We were going home on a Friday thinking we were going to have a jury trial on a Monday," Morris said, "then we get the email over the weekend that said, 'Nope. Sorry. Can't do it.' You can't argue with a quarantine order, can you?"Defendants have a constitutional right to a speedy trial. With COVID restrictions, that timeline has been suspended since March 19, 2020, but a recent bill passed by the Kansas legislature reinstated that deadline on March 1."There's a date in a case where, after that, you have to bring somebody to trial within 150 days or 180, so you get five or six months," said Morris. "If they request a delay, it stops the clock but the state has an obligation to get them done."Morris said that timeline seems like a lengthy one but with two courtrooms in Barton County, it can be tricky to get everything scheduled. A full-sized staff, he said, will make managing any issues easier.

Barton County Attorney's Office ready to resume jury trials

Last week, the Great Bend Police Department released information on how
a Rush County woman nearly lost $45,000 in cash because of a phone scam. The
caller convinced the woman, in her 70s, the cash was needed to keep her out of trouble.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/fd864e08-b744-4e0c-936d-3af126194205">RELATED STORY: UPS Store, police work to return $44K to Rush Co. woman</a>

The Great Bend UPS store became suspicious of the package with cash inside and eventually discovered the money. Police Chief Steve Haulmark said these scams, and
many similar approaches, are a constant threat.


"I mention this again only because we've had several other scams recently," said Haulmark. "These folks that do this, that's their job and they're very good at it."

Great Bend police officers reviewed the UPS store’s video surveillance to identify
the sender. Officials were able to return the woman’s money and prevent her
from mailing another $20,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Legitimate government agencies are not going to call anybody and demand money, particularly if they're asking something to be sent via cryptocurrency," said Haulmark. "That's not something we would ever do."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710863967526.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostLast week, the Great Bend Police Department released information on how
a Rush County woman nearly lost $45,000 in cash because of a phone scam. The
caller convinced the woman, in her 70s, the cash was needed to keep her out of trouble.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/fd864e08-b744-4e0c-936d-3af126194205">RELATED STORY: UPS Store, police work to return $44K to Rush Co. woman</a>The Great Bend UPS store became suspicious of the package with cash inside and eventually discovered the money. Police Chief Steve Haulmark said these scams, and
many similar approaches, are a constant threat.
"I mention this again only because we've had several other scams recently," said Haulmark. "These folks that do this, that's their job and they're very good at it."Great Bend police officers reviewed the UPS store’s video surveillance to identify
the sender. Officials were able to return the woman’s money and prevent her
from mailing another $20,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;"Legitimate government agencies are not going to call anybody and demand money, particularly if they're asking something to be sent via cryptocurrency," said Haulmark. "That's not something we would ever do."

Great Bend Police Chief: Stay cautious of scams

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/19)

At 12:04 p.m. an accident was reported at 2308 8th
Street.

At 2:49 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 67 NW 50
Avenue.

At 6 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. Kennedy
Avenue &amp; E. Santa Fe in Ellinwood.

At 6:20 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at SE 60 Avenue
&amp; SE 50 Road in Ellinwood.

At 7:24 p.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
139 NE 20 Road.

At 8:20 p.m. an accident was reported at US 281 Highway in
Hoisington.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (3/19)

At 12:24 a.m. loud neighbors was reported at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.

At 4:39 a.m. dogs barking was reported at 2924 24th
Street.

At 7:43 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at Railroad Avenue
&amp; Patton Road.

At 8:55 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2919 25th
Street.

At 9:32 a.m. damaging the pop machine was reported at 2823
10th Street.

At 5:11 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.

At 5:49 p.m. a black Chrysler 300 speeding in the area was
reported at 5927 Hemlock.

At 5:51 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5807 Aspen
Dr.

At 6 p.m. a possible intoxicated driver was reported at N.
Kennedy Avenue &amp; E. Santa Fe in Ellinwood.

At 7 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2027 Morton
Street.

At 7:07 p.m. fireworks in the area were reported at 1300
Kansas Avenue.

At 10:12 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1315 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 (3/19)Non-Injury AccidentAt 12:04 p.m. an accident was reported at 2308 8th
Street.Controlled BurnAt 2:49 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 67 NW 50
Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 6 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. Kennedy
Avenue &amp; E. Santa Fe in Ellinwood.Noise ComplaintAt 6:20 p.m. a noise complaint was reported at SE 60 Avenue
&amp; SE 50 Road in Ellinwood.Unconscious / FaintingAt 7:24 p.m. a report of unconscious/fainting was made at
139 NE 20 Road.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:20 p.m. an accident was reported at US 281 Highway in
Hoisington.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (3/19)Noise ComplaintAt 12:24 a.m. loud neighbors was reported at 1101 Kansas
Avenue.At 4:39 a.m. dogs barking was reported at 2924 24th
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 7:43 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at Railroad Avenue
&amp; Patton Road.Animal ComplaintAt 8:55 a.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2919 25th
Street.Criminal DamageAt 9:32 a.m. damaging the pop machine was reported at 2823
10th Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 12:04 p.m. an accident was reported at 2308 8th
Street.At 5:11 p.m. an accident was reported at 3503 10th
Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 5:49 p.m. a black Chrysler 300 speeding in the area was
reported at 5927 Hemlock.Sick PersonAt 5:51 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 5807 Aspen
Dr.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 6 p.m. a possible intoxicated driver was reported at N.
Kennedy Avenue &amp; E. Santa Fe in Ellinwood.Traumatic InjuriesAt 7 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2027 Morton
Street.Fireworks ComplaintAt 7:07 p.m. fireworks in the area were reported at 1300
Kansas Avenue.Overdose / PoisoningAt 10:12 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 1315 10th
Street.

Cop Shop (3/19)

3/19 BOOKED: Albert Haas, Jr. on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $15,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Aric Untereiner Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $583 cash only.

BOOKED: Nicholas Espinosa on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Jessica Garcia on Stafford County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jesus Torres on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution of Marijuana, No Insurance, Illegal Tag, and No Seat Belt, on $100,000 OR bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/19 BOOKED: Albert Haas, Jr. on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $15,000 C/S.BOOKED: Aric Untereiner Hernandez on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $583 cash only.BOOKED: Nicholas Espinosa on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Jessica Garcia on Stafford County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $5,000 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jesus Torres on Barton County District Court warrant for Distribution of Marijuana, No Insurance, Illegal Tag, and No Seat Belt, on $100,000 OR bond.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/19)

No vote was taken during Tuesday's Barton County Commission study session on the proposed large-scale commercial solar regulations recommended by the planning commission last Thursday. Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham used the time to outline changes to the commissioners ahead of the April 2 meeting in which the commission may vote.

"These changes are the literal result of feedback from people, whether it was written feedback that was presented verbally or brought up in discussion during public outreach," she said. "We very much appreciate the input from everybody who helped us. We certainly reviewed every single thing that was presented, including Acciona's 650-plus suggested changes."

Goreham discussed all the changes presented during last Thursday's planning commission meeting, and introduced the new proposed zoning map that includes a two-mile no-build zone around Cheyenne Bottoms. The board of commissioners cannot vote on the recommendation until a 14-day protest period beginning last Thursday passes. County Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson took note of some of the details in the regulations.

"I want to commend you guys on your abandonment, decommissioning, and reclamation plan," he said. "I've had a lot of people reaching out to me that are very concerned about what happens if these guys go belly up. What happens...? I think you've addressed it exceptionally well."

The county's moratorium on commercial solar development is set to expire on March 31, just days ahead of the board of commissioners' first eligible date to vote on the regulations. Goreham proposed asking for a 30-day extension on the moratorium at the March 26 commission meeting. Even if the commission votes against the proposed regulations, Goreham said she can likely have another recommendation before the board by April 16.

"I'm going to ask for 30, but if you grant me an extension, please do not grant me less than to April 16," she said. "There won't be any possible way to meet the moratorium requirement."

At the April 2 meeting, Goreham plans to ask for three votes on district zoning regulations, the solar regulations, and the new zoning map. Another vote lifting the moratorium could be tabled if any of the three are not approved by the commission. Planning Commissioner Mary Anne Stoskopf said extending the moratorium only a few days does not leave any room for error, accident, or natural disaster.

"The bottom line is, you guys have gotten it done, so I don't think we want the moratorium to expire prior to adoption of regulations," Hutchinson said. "I don't think anybody up here wants that."

The commission agreed to vote on an extension of the moratorium at its next meeting on March 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710873970353.jpeg" alt="Barton County Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham and the planning commission presented to the board of commissioners Tuesday morning." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham and the planning commission presented to the board of commissioners Tuesday morning.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostNo vote was taken during Tuesday's Barton County Commission study session on the proposed large-scale commercial solar regulations recommended by the planning commission last Thursday. Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham used the time to outline changes to the commissioners ahead of the April 2 meeting in which the commission may vote."These changes are the literal result of feedback from people, whether it was written feedback that was presented verbally or brought up in discussion during public outreach," she said. "We very much appreciate the input from everybody who helped us. We certainly reviewed every single thing that was presented, including Acciona's 650-plus suggested changes."Goreham discussed all the changes presented during last Thursday's planning commission meeting, and introduced the new proposed zoning map that includes a two-mile no-build zone around Cheyenne Bottoms. The board of commissioners cannot vote on the recommendation until a 14-day protest period beginning last Thursday passes. County Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson took note of some of the details in the regulations."I want to commend you guys on your abandonment, decommissioning, and reclamation plan," he said. "I've had a lot of people reaching out to me that are very concerned about what happens if these guys go belly up. What happens...? I think you've addressed it exceptionally well."The county's moratorium on commercial solar development is set to expire on March 31, just days ahead of the board of commissioners' first eligible date to vote on the regulations. Goreham proposed asking for a 30-day extension on the moratorium at the March 26 commission meeting. Even if the commission votes against the proposed regulations, Goreham said she can likely have another recommendation before the board by April 16."I'm going to ask for 30, but if you grant me an extension, please do not grant me less than to April 16," she said. "There won't be any possible way to meet the moratorium requirement."At the April 2 meeting, Goreham plans to ask for three votes on district zoning regulations, the solar regulations, and the new zoning map. Another vote lifting the moratorium could be tabled if any of the three are not approved by the commission. Planning Commissioner Mary Anne Stoskopf said extending the moratorium only a few days does not leave any room for error, accident, or natural disaster."The bottom line is, you guys have gotten it done, so I don't think we want the moratorium to expire prior to adoption of regulations," Hutchinson said. "I don't think anybody up here wants that."The commission agreed to vote on an extension of the moratorium at its next meeting on March 26.

Barton Commission hears solar reg updates; vote expected April 2

Today Sunny, with a high near 63. Breezy, with a southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming east-northeast 15 to 20 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 28 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 34. East wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 64. East wind 8 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast in the afternoon.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 44. South-southeast wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 61. Breezy, with a west wind 10 to 20 mph becoming north-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 29.

Saturday A 20 percent chance of rain before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 53. Breezy.

Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. Breezy.

Sunday A slight chance of rain, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 67. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Sunday Night Rain showers likely before 1 a.m., then a chance of rain and snow showers. Some thunder is also possible. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Monday A chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 39. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 63. Breezy, with a southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming east-northeast 15 to 20 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 28 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 34. East wind 9 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 64. East wind 8 to 10 mph becoming south-southeast in the afternoon.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 44. South-southeast wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 61. Breezy, with a west wind 10 to 20 mph becoming north-northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 29.Saturday A 20 percent chance of rain before 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 53. Breezy.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. Breezy.Sunday A slight chance of rain, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 67. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Sunday Night Rain showers likely before 1 a.m., then a chance of rain and snow showers. Some thunder is also possible. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Monday A chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 39. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 30%.Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 48.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

Potential students will have an opportunity to gear up for the fall semester during Barton’s popular “Enrollment Day” sessions, which start on April 16 and will continue throughout the summer. Students can call (620) 792-9286 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://enroll.bartonccc.edu/">enroll.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;to sign up or find more information. Students can apply for admission before coming to campus by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://apply.bartonccc.edu/">apply.bartonccc.edu</a>.

The sessions are designed to make the enrollment process easy and fast. Students will be able to visit with an academic and financial advisor, plan and enroll for classes, take an optional tour of campus, and more.

April 16 - 1 and 6 p.m. April 17 - 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. April 23 - 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. April 24 - 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. May 1 - 1 p.m. May 15 - 1 p.m. May 22 - 1 p.m. June 5 - 1 p.m. June 12&nbsp;- 1 p.m. June 19 - 1 p.m.&nbsp; July 10&nbsp;- 1 p.m. July 17&nbsp;- 1 p.m. July 24&nbsp;- 1 p.m.

Contact the admissions office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admissions@bartonccc.edu">admissions@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;for more information or to schedule your enrollment via email or phone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710860470448.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaPotential students will have an opportunity to gear up for the fall semester during Barton’s popular “Enrollment Day” sessions, which start on April 16 and will continue throughout the summer. Students can call (620) 792-9286 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://enroll.bartonccc.edu/">enroll.bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;to sign up or find more information. Students can apply for admission before coming to campus by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://apply.bartonccc.edu/">apply.bartonccc.edu</a>.The sessions are designed to make the enrollment process easy and fast. Students will be able to visit with an academic and financial advisor, plan and enroll for classes, take an optional tour of campus, and more.Enrollment day sessions are as follows:April 16 - 1 and 6 p.m. April 17 - 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. April 23 - 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. April 24 - 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. May 1 - 1 p.m. May 15 - 1 p.m. May 22 - 1 p.m. June 5 - 1 p.m. June 12&nbsp;- 1 p.m. June 19 - 1 p.m.&nbsp; July 10&nbsp;- 1 p.m. July 17&nbsp;- 1 p.m. July 24&nbsp;- 1 p.m.Contact the admissions office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admissions@bartonccc.edu">admissions@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;for more information or to schedule your enrollment via email or phone.

Barton hosting Enrollment Days to prepare students for next school year

Great Bend Economic Development has continued its strong support for
entrepreneurship over the past couple of years. Last fall’s <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7316ba51-af53-468f-94b7-5d7bb3aebfdd">IGNITE Rural
Business competition</a> awarded $95,000 to entrepreneurs in Barton County to start
new businesses. The <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/fd5d7c1c-a9f6-4c95-85cd-053b8e8dad2f">4th annual Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge</a> wrapped
up a couple of weeks ago with business ideas from Barton County students from 7th
grade through 12th grade.

New this year is CO.STARTERS Core, a
10-week program to walk individuals through a process to get business ideas off
the ground. Jeremy Elliott and Regan Reif are facilitating the program, and
Elliott said this will be a great way to prepare aspiring entrepreneurs.


"It's going to help you ask better questions to challenge your assumptions," said Elliott. "It will identify key issues and help you articulate and explain your business' potential to others. Most importantly, it will help you with the next step."

CO.STARTERS will meet on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. over a 10-week
period at the Great Bend Economic Development office on 10th Street.
The program costs $250 to participate and begins on April 3.
Anyone that attends eight or more classes will receive a $100 rebate. 

Online
applications are available at <a href="https://www.gbedinc.com/costarters">gbedinc.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710185622681.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostGreat Bend Economic Development has continued its strong support for
entrepreneurship over the past couple of years. Last fall’s <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7316ba51-af53-468f-94b7-5d7bb3aebfdd">IGNITE Rural
Business competition</a> awarded $95,000 to entrepreneurs in Barton County to start
new businesses. The <a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/fd5d7c1c-a9f6-4c95-85cd-053b8e8dad2f">4th annual Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge</a> wrapped
up a couple of weeks ago with business ideas from Barton County students from 7th
grade through 12th grade. New this year is CO.STARTERS Core, a
10-week program to walk individuals through a process to get business ideas off
the ground. Jeremy Elliott and Regan Reif are facilitating the program, and
Elliott said this will be a great way to prepare aspiring entrepreneurs.
"It's going to help you ask better questions to challenge your assumptions," said Elliott. "It will identify key issues and help you articulate and explain your business' potential to others. Most importantly, it will help you with the next step."CO.STARTERS will meet on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. over a 10-week
period at the Great Bend Economic Development office on 10th Street.
The program costs $250 to participate and begins on April 3.
Anyone that attends eight or more classes will receive a $100 rebate. Online
applications are available at <a href="https://www.gbedinc.com/costarters">gbedinc.com</a>.

Entrepreneurship support, Great Bend Eco Devo to start 10-week program

The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a free Stop ‘N Learn Session titled “World Water Day” on Wednesday, March 20, from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street).&nbsp; March 22, 2024, is World Water Day.&nbsp; 

Mandy Kern with the Kansas Wetlands Education Center will give an update on the water conditions of Cheyenne Bottoms. She will also introduce a collaboration project between the KWEC, City of Hays Water Department, and K-State Research and Extension. The 4-H Water Ambassadors are a group of teens in Ellis and Barton counties focusing on the importance of water quality, conservation, and careers. After receiving training, the team leads water themed activities at a variety of locations.&nbsp; Mandy will demonstrate a few of the activities the teens use and provide resources to encourage others to lead water conservation programs for organizations in which participants may be involved.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A complete list of programs and class details can be found at the GBRC website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendrec.com/" target="_blank">www.greatbendrec.com</a>. Please contact the Recreation Commission office at 793-3755, ext 110, or stop by the office located at 1214 Stone Street for more information or with any questions you may have.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602181603891.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a free Stop ‘N Learn Session titled “World Water Day” on Wednesday, March 20, from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street).&nbsp; March 22, 2024, is World Water Day.&nbsp; Mandy Kern with the Kansas Wetlands Education Center will give an update on the water conditions of Cheyenne Bottoms. She will also introduce a collaboration project between the KWEC, City of Hays Water Department, and K-State Research and Extension. The 4-H Water Ambassadors are a group of teens in Ellis and Barton counties focusing on the importance of water quality, conservation, and careers. After receiving training, the team leads water themed activities at a variety of locations.&nbsp; Mandy will demonstrate a few of the activities the teens use and provide resources to encourage others to lead water conservation programs for organizations in which participants may be involved.&nbsp;&nbsp;A complete list of programs and class details can be found at the GBRC website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.greatbendrec.com/" target="_blank">www.greatbendrec.com</a>. Please contact the Recreation Commission office at 793-3755, ext 110, or stop by the office located at 1214 Stone Street for more information or with any questions you may have.

GBRC: Stop 'N Learn - World Water Day

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Curtis Wolf, site manager at Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JsvYviWXZ40?si=ipZDW49WXxoPMfq3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Curtis Wolf, site manager at Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms.

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Wetlands Education Center manager Curtis Wolf

Through the quality-of-life tax initiative, city staff wanted to showcase what some of those dollars were used for. This is the Veteran’s Park lighting project that was recently completed and will serve the community better as citizens are able to walk around Veteran’s Park in the morning and evenings. It is with these dollars that we are able to continue to enhance, upkeep and maintain our parks. The City of Great Bend wants to thank the community for their continued support of these projects.&nbsp;

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/19e6b1ce-1c36-4e16-829a-65619d1c63cf">RELATED STORY: Work to finish next week on Vets Park walking path lighting</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710876337357.jpeg" alt="(Photo taken by Mike Smith)&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>(Photo taken by Mike Smith)&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>From the City of Great Bend...Through the quality-of-life tax initiative, city staff wanted to showcase what some of those dollars were used for. This is the Veteran’s Park lighting project that was recently completed and will serve the community better as citizens are able to walk around Veteran’s Park in the morning and evenings. It is with these dollars that we are able to continue to enhance, upkeep and maintain our parks. The City of Great Bend wants to thank the community for their continued support of these projects.&nbsp;---<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/19e6b1ce-1c36-4e16-829a-65619d1c63cf">RELATED STORY: Work to finish next week on Vets Park walking path lighting</a>

Great Bend shows off new lighting around walking path

As lawns begin to turn green, controlling weeds and applying fertilizer is important.

Cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue are among the most common cool-season grasses needing attention, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, who shares the following maintenance calendar:

Spot treat broadleaf weeds, if necessary. Treat on a day that is 50 degrees or warmer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness.

Apply crabgrass preventer when redbud trees are in full bloom, usually in April. The preventer needs to be watered in before it will start to work. One-quarter inch of water will be enough to water in any of the products commonly available. Remember that a good, thick lawn is the best weed prevention and may be all that is needed.

Fertilize the lawn with a slow-release fertilizer if you water your lawn or if you normally receive enough rainfall that your turf doesn’t go drought-dormant during the summer.

If there are broadleaf weeds, spot treat with a spray or use a fertilizer that includes a weed killer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness of the weed killer, but the fertilizer needs to be watered in. If you are using a product that has both fertilizer and weed killer, wait 24 hours after application before watering in.

If grubs have been a problem in the past, apply a product containing imidacloprid or chlorantraniliprole during May or anytime from May through June for imidacloprid. These products work to prevent grub damage. If rainfall does not occur within 24 hours, irrigate with ¼ inch of water.

Apply second round of crabgrass preventer by June 15 – unless you have used Dimension (dithiopyr) or Barricade (prodiamine) for the April application. These two products normally provide season-long control with a single application. Remember to water it in.

If you see grub damage, apply a grub killer that contains Dylox. Imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole are effective against young grubs but may not be effective on late instar grubs. The grub killer containing Dylox must be watered in within 24 hours or effectiveness drops.

Fertilize around Labor Day. This is the most important fertilization of the year. Water in the fertilizer if rainfall does not occur.

Fertilize. This fertilizer is taken up by the roots but is not used until the following spring. Water in fertilizer.

Spray for broadleaf weeds even if they are small. Broadleaf weeds are much easier to control in the fall than in the spring. Try to spray on a day that is at least 50 degrees. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours reduces effectiveness. Use label rates for all products.

Domenghini reminds homeowners that using best practices for turf management is the most effective way to manage their lawn.

“This includes watering only when needed and only applying as much as needed. Deep, infrequent watering is more efficient than frequent, shallow watering. Excessive fertilizer does not equal a healthier lawn and follow recommendations for lawn height when mowing.

She also recommends getting the soil tested to determine nutrient levels. The best start to a healthy lawn is healthy soil.

Wait to apply fertilizers until you know what your turfgrass needs. This step can save homeowners time and money.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>As lawns begin to turn green, controlling weeds and applying fertilizer is important.Cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue are among the most common cool-season grasses needing attention, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, who shares the following maintenance calendar:MarchSpot treat broadleaf weeds, if necessary. Treat on a day that is 50 degrees or warmer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness.AprilApply crabgrass preventer when redbud trees are in full bloom, usually in April. The preventer needs to be watered in before it will start to work. One-quarter inch of water will be enough to water in any of the products commonly available. Remember that a good, thick lawn is the best weed prevention and may be all that is needed.MayFertilize the lawn with a slow-release fertilizer if you water your lawn or if you normally receive enough rainfall that your turf doesn’t go drought-dormant during the summer.If there are broadleaf weeds, spot treat with a spray or use a fertilizer that includes a weed killer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness of the weed killer, but the fertilizer needs to be watered in. If you are using a product that has both fertilizer and weed killer, wait 24 hours after application before watering in.If grubs have been a problem in the past, apply a product containing imidacloprid or chlorantraniliprole during May or anytime from May through June for imidacloprid. These products work to prevent grub damage. If rainfall does not occur within 24 hours, irrigate with ¼ inch of water.June through Mid-JulyApply second round of crabgrass preventer by June 15 – unless you have used Dimension (dithiopyr) or Barricade (prodiamine) for the April application. These two products normally provide season-long control with a single application. Remember to water it in.Late-July through AugustIf you see grub damage, apply a grub killer that contains Dylox. Imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole are effective against young grubs but may not be effective on late instar grubs. The grub killer containing Dylox must be watered in within 24 hours or effectiveness drops.SeptemberFertilize around Labor Day. This is the most important fertilization of the year. Water in the fertilizer if rainfall does not occur.NovemberFertilize. This fertilizer is taken up by the roots but is not used until the following spring. Water in fertilizer.Spray for broadleaf weeds even if they are small. Broadleaf weeds are much easier to control in the fall than in the spring. Try to spray on a day that is at least 50 degrees. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours reduces effectiveness. Use label rates for all products.Domenghini reminds homeowners that using best practices for turf management is the most effective way to manage their lawn.“This includes watering only when needed and only applying as much as needed. Deep, infrequent watering is more efficient than frequent, shallow watering. Excessive fertilizer does not equal a healthier lawn and follow recommendations for lawn height when mowing.She also recommends getting the soil tested to determine nutrient levels. The best start to a healthy lawn is healthy soil.Wait to apply fertilizers until you know what your turfgrass needs. This step can save homeowners time and money.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Cool-season lawn calendar 

When it comes to hosting a high school state basketball tournament in
Kansas, there are only seven communities throughout the state that are chosen.
Barton Community College, in Great Bend, has been fortunate to host the Class
1A – Division II state tournament for the past four years. 

Amanda Gaddis, with
the Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau, told the Great Bend City Council
Monday night that the tournament was a big boost to the local economy two weeks
ago.


"It filled our hotels," said Gaddis. "We had great remarks on the 'Sports in Kansas' page calling Great Bend a class act hosting 1A teams. A big thanks to Barton Community College athletics for putting Great Bend's best foot forward."

The state tournament brings 16 high schools, eight boys and eight girls teams,
to Great Bend over a four-day period.


Basketball is one of two state tournaments held in Great Bend. The Class 2-1A
State Baseball Championships are hosted at the Sports Complex in May.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674239685271.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen it comes to hosting a high school state basketball tournament in
Kansas, there are only seven communities throughout the state that are chosen.
Barton Community College, in Great Bend, has been fortunate to host the Class
1A – Division II state tournament for the past four years. Amanda Gaddis, with
the Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau, told the Great Bend City Council
Monday night that the tournament was a big boost to the local economy two weeks
ago.
"It filled our hotels," said Gaddis. "We had great remarks on the 'Sports in Kansas' page calling Great Bend a class act hosting 1A teams. A big thanks to Barton Community College athletics for putting Great Bend's best foot forward."The state tournament brings 16 high schools, eight boys and eight girls teams,
to Great Bend over a four-day period.
Basketball is one of two state tournaments held in Great Bend. The Class 2-1A
State Baseball Championships are hosted at the Sports Complex in May.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Good feedback of Great Bend hosting state basketball tournament

Changes are coming to the 20th Judicial District that serves Barton, Ellsworth, Russell, Rice, and Stafford counties. The upcoming retirement by the Hon. Steve Johnson leaves a position for a new judge in the district. Ellinwood's Donald E. Anderson II is the first candidate to file for district judge on the Republican ticket for the Aug. 6 primary.

"The law has always been a part of my life, even growing up, with my father being an attorney," Anderson said. "I feel like this is the next logical step in continuing a lifelong career in the law."

Anderson spent most of 12 years living in Ellinwood from 1985 to 1997. He graduated from Ellinwood High School and moved to Arizona where he earned his undergraduate degree. He returned to Kansas and earned his law degree from Washburn University in Topeka. He moved back to Ellinwood in 2008, and now continues to reside there with his wife and two young children. Anderson has worked in all facets of the law, and now operates out of his own law firm located in Great Bend.

"Though I'm probably most known locally for my criminal defense work, I actually have had a robust private practice in all areas of the law," he said. "I feel most accomplished in all the many areas of the law I was able to help my clients in."

The 2024 primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6. The winners of the primary election will advance to the general election held on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710789086961.jpeg" alt="Donald E. Anderson II filed his candidacy for 20th Judicial District Judge last Friday with the Secretary of State's Office in Topeka." />
 <figcaption>Donald E. Anderson II filed his candidacy for 20th Judicial District Judge last Friday with the Secretary of State's Office in Topeka.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostChanges are coming to the 20th Judicial District that serves Barton, Ellsworth, Russell, Rice, and Stafford counties. The upcoming retirement by the Hon. Steve Johnson leaves a position for a new judge in the district. Ellinwood's Donald E. Anderson II is the first candidate to file for district judge on the Republican ticket for the Aug. 6 primary."The law has always been a part of my life, even growing up, with my father being an attorney," Anderson said. "I feel like this is the next logical step in continuing a lifelong career in the law."Anderson spent most of 12 years living in Ellinwood from 1985 to 1997. He graduated from Ellinwood High School and moved to Arizona where he earned his undergraduate degree. He returned to Kansas and earned his law degree from Washburn University in Topeka. He moved back to Ellinwood in 2008, and now continues to reside there with his wife and two young children. Anderson has worked in all facets of the law, and now operates out of his own law firm located in Great Bend."Though I'm probably most known locally for my criminal defense work, I actually have had a robust private practice in all areas of the law," he said. "I feel most accomplished in all the many areas of the law I was able to help my clients in."The 2024 primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6. The winners of the primary election will advance to the general election held on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Ellinwood's Anderson files in district judge race

Most of the tax statements mailed to Barton County residents were correct. That was the message from County Treasurer Jim Jordan during Tuesday's county commission meeting. His office is going through the time-consuming process of making corrections and issuing refunds, but it does not impact how taxes are paid in the county.

"If you have not sent your tax payments in thinking you will get a new tax statement, you will not," he said. "This mill levy does not affect all of Barton County, so we're not going to send out new tax statements. Not everybody in Barton County will receive a refund, either. Send in your payment. If you're due a refund, we'll send it out to you with a note stating what the refund is for."

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/29db4e2e-4a90-4ecb-9042-9d96223b7752">READ MORE: Barton Co. officials further clarify tax error resolution</a>

Commission Chair Barb Esfeld seconded the notion, adding late tax payments will still accrue additional interest charges.

"Yes, there was an error made," she said, "but if you haven't paid your taxes, you're still liable for interest. Don't wait on our correction because it will not take away the fact that you're still going to have interest due."

County Counselor Patrick Hoffman reiterated the interest accruals are by state statute and counties have no control over them. Jordan's office continues to work through more than 50,000 files that must be manually adjusted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710867225404.jpeg" alt="Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan updated commissioners on a mill levy error on tax statements during Tuesday's meeting." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Treasurer Jim Jordan updated commissioners on a mill levy error on tax statements during Tuesday's meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMost of the tax statements mailed to Barton County residents were correct. That was the message from County Treasurer Jim Jordan during Tuesday's county commission meeting. His office is going through the time-consuming process of making corrections and issuing refunds, but it does not impact how taxes are paid in the county."If you have not sent your tax payments in thinking you will get a new tax statement, you will not," he said. "This mill levy does not affect all of Barton County, so we're not going to send out new tax statements. Not everybody in Barton County will receive a refund, either. Send in your payment. If you're due a refund, we'll send it out to you with a note stating what the refund is for."<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/29db4e2e-4a90-4ecb-9042-9d96223b7752">READ MORE: Barton Co. officials further clarify tax error resolution</a>Commission Chair Barb Esfeld seconded the notion, adding late tax payments will still accrue additional interest charges."Yes, there was an error made," she said, "but if you haven't paid your taxes, you're still liable for interest. Don't wait on our correction because it will not take away the fact that you're still going to have interest due."County Counselor Patrick Hoffman reiterated the interest accruals are by state statute and counties have no control over them. Jordan's office continues to work through more than 50,000 files that must be manually adjusted.

Barton Co. Treasurer: new tax statements will not be mailed

News from the Oil Patch, Mar 18 John P. Tretbar

Kansas crude prices are down slightly after reaching their peak for the month last week.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $71.25 per barrel after dropping 25 cents Friday. That's up a dollar from the first of the month and more than $11 dollars higher that at the first of the year. The near-month contract for light sweet crude on the Nymex settled Friday over $81 per barrel for the second day in a row, and only the second time this year. Prices were up two percent by lunchtime Monday. Nymex crude was trading over $82 a barrel and London Brent was over $86.

The latest lease sale announced by the government under the Inflation Reduction Act will include parcels in northwestern Kansas. According to the announcement from the Bureau of Land Management, this sale includes 18 parcels in New Mexico and eight in Cheyenne County, Kansas. The 30-day public protest period to receive additional public input will close April 10th, with the sale scheduled to follow on June 13th.

Statewide well-completions so far this year are running about half of the pace set last year. But the weekly report from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service shows more completions than in any week since before the pandemic. Operators completed 62 wells across Kansas in the week through March 14, the most since January of 2019.&nbsp; Out of 62 wells completed last week, just eight were dry holes. The last time operators filed that many completion reports, five years ago, the percentage of dry holes was much greater, 20 dry holes out of the 66 newly completed wells reported.

Kansas regulators okayed 15 new drilling locations last week, including one new permit in Barton County. That's 173 drilling permits so far this year, compared to 254 by this time last year.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes rose by seven rigs from a week earlier. The count in Louisiana was up five rigs, Texas was up three and New Mexico was up one. Oklahoma was down one rig. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service notes 18 active rigs in Western Kansas, which is up three for the week. Drilling was underway or about to start on leases in Barton and Stafford counties.

U.S. operators exported a record 1.9 million barrels of propane per day in December. That's the largest such tally since 1973, when the government started keeping track. The Energy Information Administration reports the spike in exports stems mainly from the huge price spread between the U.S. Gulf Coast and from East Asia, the biggest spread in ten years.&nbsp; During the second half of last year, Saudi propane exports to Asia fell by 22%, while U.S. exports to Asia grew six percent.

Crude exports set a record last year, up 13% from the previous record set the year before. The government says exports for the year averaged over four million barrels per day.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration says U.S. sales abroad have increased in every year since the ban on most exports was lifted in 2015.&nbsp; The new report from EIA suggests record-high production is supporting the spike in exports. Many U.S. refineries are optimized to run heavy, sour crude, while much of the output here in the U.S. is light, sweet crude. The report suggests this creates export incentives.

The government says both crude imports and exports dropped last week.*U.S. crude oil imports averaged 5.5 million barrels per day last week, a decline of 1.7 million barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude oil imports averaged about 6.4 million barrels per day. That's 183-thousand barrels or nearly three percent higher than the same four-week average last year.*Crude-oil exports dropped last week by nearly 1.5 million barrels per day. The EIA says operators shipped out of country 3,147,000 barrels per day in the week through March 8. The four-week average for crude exports drops to 4.3 million barrels per day, down about six percent from the four-week average a year ago.

Output from the U.S. oil patch slid back from recent record highs but remained above 13 million barrels per day for a seventh straight week. U.S. crude production dropped last week by more than 100,000 barrels per day from the week before, to 13,132,000 barrels per day. Current output beats the same week a year ago by 888,000 barrels per day. Average production over the last four weeks reached 13,225,000 barrels per day, which is up eight percent from a year ago.

Domestic crude inventories dropped by 1.5 million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of 447 million barrels as of March 8.&nbsp; EIA said inventories are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Mar 18 John P. TretbarKansas crude prices are down slightly after reaching their peak for the month last week.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $71.25 per barrel after dropping 25 cents Friday. That's up a dollar from the first of the month and more than $11 dollars higher that at the first of the year. The near-month contract for light sweet crude on the Nymex settled Friday over $81 per barrel for the second day in a row, and only the second time this year. Prices were up two percent by lunchtime Monday. Nymex crude was trading over $82 a barrel and London Brent was over $86.The latest lease sale announced by the government under the Inflation Reduction Act will include parcels in northwestern Kansas. According to the announcement from the Bureau of Land Management, this sale includes 18 parcels in New Mexico and eight in Cheyenne County, Kansas. The 30-day public protest period to receive additional public input will close April 10th, with the sale scheduled to follow on June 13th.Statewide well-completions so far this year are running about half of the pace set last year. But the weekly report from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service shows more completions than in any week since before the pandemic. Operators completed 62 wells across Kansas in the week through March 14, the most since January of 2019.&nbsp; Out of 62 wells completed last week, just eight were dry holes. The last time operators filed that many completion reports, five years ago, the percentage of dry holes was much greater, 20 dry holes out of the 66 newly completed wells reported.Kansas regulators okayed 15 new drilling locations last week, including one new permit in Barton County. That's 173 drilling permits so far this year, compared to 254 by this time last year.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes rose by seven rigs from a week earlier. The count in Louisiana was up five rigs, Texas was up three and New Mexico was up one. Oklahoma was down one rig. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service notes 18 active rigs in Western Kansas, which is up three for the week. Drilling was underway or about to start on leases in Barton and Stafford counties.U.S. operators exported a record 1.9 million barrels of propane per day in December. That's the largest such tally since 1973, when the government started keeping track. The Energy Information Administration reports the spike in exports stems mainly from the huge price spread between the U.S. Gulf Coast and from East Asia, the biggest spread in ten years.&nbsp; During the second half of last year, Saudi propane exports to Asia fell by 22%, while U.S. exports to Asia grew six percent.Crude exports set a record last year, up 13% from the previous record set the year before. The government says exports for the year averaged over four million barrels per day.&nbsp; The Energy Information Administration says U.S. sales abroad have increased in every year since the ban on most exports was lifted in 2015.&nbsp; The new report from EIA suggests record-high production is supporting the spike in exports. Many U.S. refineries are optimized to run heavy, sour crude, while much of the output here in the U.S. is light, sweet crude. The report suggests this creates export incentives.The government says both crude imports and exports dropped last week.*U.S. crude oil imports averaged 5.5 million barrels per day last week, a decline of 1.7 million barrels per day from the previous week. Over the past four weeks, crude oil imports averaged about 6.4 million barrels per day. That's 183-thousand barrels or nearly three percent higher than the same four-week average last year.*Crude-oil exports dropped last week by nearly 1.5 million barrels per day. The EIA says operators shipped out of country 3,147,000 barrels per day in the week through March 8. The four-week average for crude exports drops to 4.3 million barrels per day, down about six percent from the four-week average a year ago.Output from the U.S. oil patch slid back from recent record highs but remained above 13 million barrels per day for a seventh straight week. U.S. crude production dropped last week by more than 100,000 barrels per day from the week before, to 13,132,000 barrels per day. Current output beats the same week a year ago by 888,000 barrels per day. Average production over the last four weeks reached 13,225,000 barrels per day, which is up eight percent from a year ago.Domestic crude inventories dropped by 1.5 million barrels last week. The Energy Information Administration reports stockpiles of 447 million barrels as of March 8.&nbsp; EIA said inventories are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Crude exports set new record

At last year’s Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by the Great Bend
Recreation Commission, there were 254 pre-registrations for the event and
approximately 100 more children signed up at the event. 

Great Bend Rec Director
Chris Umphres said the Rec has decided to upgrade the popular event this year by
adding fireworks at the end of the event.


"We're going to take some of the funds we use for Party in the Park in August, since that is not really our event," said Umphres. "We still do the mud volleyball and we're going to help the city with some of that stuff, but we feel like some of those events get lost in the grand scope of what the city does. We wanted to put that money into the event we do."

The Easter festivity begins Saturday, March 23, at Veterans
Memorial Park with the Pawsome Easter Egg Hunt at 1 p.m. For $5, dogs can
search for pet-friendly treats and prizes. 

Later on Saturday, children ages
three to 12 will hunt for more than 5,000 eggs at the Great Bend Sports
Complex. Participants need to preregister and bring their flashlights for the event that begins at 8 p.m. Following the egg hunt at the Sports Complex, a six-minute fireworks show
synced to music will be provided by the Rec Commission.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710792825341.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt last year’s Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by the Great Bend
Recreation Commission, there were 254 pre-registrations for the event and
approximately 100 more children signed up at the event. Great Bend Rec Director
Chris Umphres said the Rec has decided to upgrade the popular event this year by
adding fireworks at the end of the event.
"We're going to take some of the funds we use for Party in the Park in August, since that is not really our event," said Umphres. "We still do the mud volleyball and we're going to help the city with some of that stuff, but we feel like some of those events get lost in the grand scope of what the city does. We wanted to put that money into the event we do."The Easter festivity begins Saturday, March 23, at Veterans
Memorial Park with the Pawsome Easter Egg Hunt at 1 p.m. For $5, dogs can
search for pet-friendly treats and prizes. Later on Saturday, children ages
three to 12 will hunt for more than 5,000 eggs at the Great Bend Sports
Complex. Participants need to preregister and bring their flashlights for the event that begins at 8 p.m. Following the egg hunt at the Sports Complex, a six-minute fireworks show
synced to music will be provided by the Rec Commission.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Rec adding fireworks to Saturday’s Easter egg hunt

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/18)

At 9:57 a.m. an assault was reported at 36 NE K-156 Highway.

At 9:58 a.m. a theft was reported at 1192 NE 200 Road in
Claflin.

At 12:54 p.m. a fire was reported in Galatia.

At 3:31 p.m. an accident was reported at 494 E. K-4 Highway
in Hoisington.

At 5:07 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 40 Avenue.

At 8:16 p.m. a cardiac/respiratory case was reported at 302
N. Main Street in Ellinwood.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (3/18)

At 8:11 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1447 21st
Street.

At 8:16 a.m. an accident was reported in the 2400 block of
19th Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (3/18)AssaultAt 9:57 a.m. an assault was reported at 36 NE K-156 Highway.TheftAt 9:58 a.m. a theft was reported at 1192 NE 200 Road in
Claflin.FireAt 12:54 p.m. a fire was reported in Galatia.Injury AccidentAt 3:31 p.m. an accident was reported at 494 E. K-4 Highway
in Hoisington.Animal ComplaintAt 5:07 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at W. US 56
Highway &amp; SW 40 Avenue.Cardiac / RespiratoryAt 8:16 p.m. a cardiac/respiratory case was reported at 302
N. Main Street in Ellinwood.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (3/18)Convulsions / SeizuresAt 8:11 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 1447 21st
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:16 a.m. an accident was reported in the 2400 block of
19th Street.

Cop Shop (3/18)

3/18 BOOKED: Manuel Romero-Betancourt on Rush County District Court warrant for Criminal Use of Weapons, Driving Under the Influence, Transporting an Open Container, Reckless Driving, Child Passenger Safety, Operating a Vehicle without a License, Maximum Speed, and Arrest By LEO, bond set at $15,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Maria Delacruz-Sanchez on Barton County District Court warrant for Escape from Custody, False Information, and Theft, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Steven Reed on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, on own recognizance.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/18 BOOKED: Manuel Romero-Betancourt on Rush County District Court warrant for Criminal Use of Weapons, Driving Under the Influence, Transporting an Open Container, Reckless Driving, Child Passenger Safety, Operating a Vehicle without a License, Maximum Speed, and Arrest By LEO, bond set at $15,000 C/S.BOOKED: Maria Delacruz-Sanchez on Barton County District Court warrant for Escape from Custody, False Information, and Theft, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Steven Reed on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, on own recognizance.&nbsp;

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/18)

Cats are said to have nine lives but the same does not hold true for other mammals. A Hoisington cat may have saved the life of its owner and a canine roommate from a housefire in the early hours of Friday morning. Just before 4 a.m., Crews responded to the 500 block of East First Street in Hoisington for a structure fire. Barton County Fire District No. 2 Chief Jerry Stricker said the owner gave some credit to her cat.

"She was in the living room and the fire occurred on the other side of the house in the kitchen," he said. "She had a dog in there, and her cat and herself, and she was in the living room sleeping in the recliner. All she commented about was the cat had woke her up, and that's how she knew anything was going on. That's when she saw the smoke."

The owner and both pets were able to safely escape the residence. Investigation revealed the fire was caused by electrical issues within the control panel of a stove. The fire spread from the stove and ignited a wall. Minimal damage was done to the kitchen. 

Firefighters were on scene for approximately 45 minutes. Fire District No. 2 and Hoisington were assisted by the Hoisington Police Department, Barton County Communications, and the Barton County Sheriff's Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710773704491.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostCats are said to have nine lives but the same does not hold true for other mammals. A Hoisington cat may have saved the life of its owner and a canine roommate from a housefire in the early hours of Friday morning. Just before 4 a.m., Crews responded to the 500 block of East First Street in Hoisington for a structure fire. Barton County Fire District No. 2 Chief Jerry Stricker said the owner gave some credit to her cat."She was in the living room and the fire occurred on the other side of the house in the kitchen," he said. "She had a dog in there, and her cat and herself, and she was in the living room sleeping in the recliner. All she commented about was the cat had woke her up, and that's how she knew anything was going on. That's when she saw the smoke."The owner and both pets were able to safely escape the residence. Investigation revealed the fire was caused by electrical issues within the control panel of a stove. The fire spread from the stove and ignited a wall. Minimal damage was done to the kitchen. Firefighters were on scene for approximately 45 minutes. Fire District No. 2 and Hoisington were assisted by the Hoisington Police Department, Barton County Communications, and the Barton County Sheriff's Office.

Feline plays the hero in Hoisington house fire

Today Sunny, with a high near 73. Southwest wind 10 to 14 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 36. North-northeast wind 5 to 9 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 63. East-northeast wind 6 to 11 mph increasing to 13 to 18 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 28 mph.

Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 36. East wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 58. East-northeast wind around 11 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 60.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 29.

Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 48.

Today Sunny, with a high near 73. Southwest wind 10 to 14 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.Tonight Clear, with a low around 36. North-northeast wind 5 to 9 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 63. East-northeast wind 6 to 11 mph increasing to 13 to 18 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 28 mph.Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 36. East wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 58. East-northeast wind around 11 mph.Thursday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 60.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 29.Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 48.Saturday Night A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Breezy.Sunday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 62. Breezy.Sunday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30. Breezy.Monday A chance of rain and snow showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 44. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 30%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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