3/6 BOOKED: Leroy Bowers on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 cash only.

BOOKED: Mary Marrone on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and No Tail Lights, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.

BOOKED: Christina Baldwin-Gaston on Linn County warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Left of Center, bond set at $5,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Facility, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Colton Green on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.

BOOKED: Daniel Wood on Sedgwick County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Joseph Hood on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Charles Bowers on Barton County District Court case for Distribution within 1,000 feet of a school, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Stolen Property, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Colton Green on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

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

RELEASED: Joseph Hood on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/6 BOOKED: Leroy Bowers on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 cash only.BOOKED: Mary Marrone on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving Under the Influence and No Tail Lights, bond set at $1,000 C/S or 48-hour OR.BOOKED: Christina Baldwin-Gaston on Linn County warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Left of Center, bond set at $5,000 C/S; and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Facility, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Colton Green on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.BOOKED: Daniel Wood on Sedgwick County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jose Ramirez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Joseph Hood on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.RELEASED: Charles Bowers on Barton County District Court case for Distribution within 1,000 feet of a school, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Stolen Property, by order of the court.RELEASED: Colton Green on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jose Ramirez on Barton County District Court case for No Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Joseph Hood on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/6)

Today A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 10 a.m. Cloudy, with a high near 57. East-northeast wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Tonight Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before midnight, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between midnight and 3 a.m., then a slight chance of showers after 3 a.m. Cloudy, with a low around 34. Breezy, with a north-northeast wind 11 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Friday A 20 percent chance of showers before noon. Cloudy, with a high near 40. Breezy, with a north wind 22 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.

Friday Night Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 25. Blustery, with a north-northwest wind 14 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 50. North-northwest wind 8 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 28.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 66.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 39.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 72. Breezy.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Breezy.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 71.

Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 41.

Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 68.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 10 a.m. Cloudy, with a high near 57. East-northeast wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 23 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Tonight Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before midnight, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between midnight and 3 a.m., then a slight chance of showers after 3 a.m. Cloudy, with a low around 34. Breezy, with a north-northeast wind 11 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Friday A 20 percent chance of showers before noon. Cloudy, with a high near 40. Breezy, with a north wind 22 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.Friday Night Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 25. Blustery, with a north-northwest wind 14 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 50. North-northwest wind 8 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 28.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 66.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 39.Monday Sunny, with a high near 72. Breezy.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Breezy.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 71.Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 41.Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 68.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Central Kansas CASA serves and advocates for abused and neglected children in need of care as they go through the court system in Barton, Stafford, Rice, Russell, and Ellsworth Counties. Volunteers are needed for that process. Executive Director Jennifer Gregg is gearing up for spring and summer volunteer training.

"We accommodate the people who sign up," she said. "We put that schedule together based off the people who choose to volunteer. It is a 30-hour training, and a good portion of that is done in person so we want to be as accommodating as we possibly can. It can be during the evening time, or it can be during the day if that's what works for peoples' schedules."

Volunteers must be 21 years of age to apply, and they can choose in which county they would prefer to work. Gregg said more volunteers are needed to handle an ever-growing caseload.

"We are finding we are being assigned more frequently to cases, which is good," she said. "We want to be able to help but we are short in numbers of volunteers to be able to assist in those cases. The sooner was can get volunteers trained, the sooner we have some assistance for these kiddos in need."

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact the Central Kansas CASA office by calling (620) 792-5544, or by emailing ckcasa20@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674492525620.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostCentral Kansas CASA serves and advocates for abused and neglected children in need of care as they go through the court system in Barton, Stafford, Rice, Russell, and Ellsworth Counties. Volunteers are needed for that process. Executive Director Jennifer Gregg is gearing up for spring and summer volunteer training."We accommodate the people who sign up," she said. "We put that schedule together based off the people who choose to volunteer. It is a 30-hour training, and a good portion of that is done in person so we want to be as accommodating as we possibly can. It can be during the evening time, or it can be during the day if that's what works for peoples' schedules."Volunteers must be 21 years of age to apply, and they can choose in which county they would prefer to work. Gregg said more volunteers are needed to handle an ever-growing caseload."We are finding we are being assigned more frequently to cases, which is good," she said. "We want to be able to help but we are short in numbers of volunteers to be able to assist in those cases. The sooner was can get volunteers trained, the sooner we have some assistance for these kiddos in need."Anyone interested in volunteering can contact the Central Kansas CASA office by calling (620) 792-5544, or by emailing ckcasa20@gmail.com.

Central Kansas CASA seeking volunteers for spring, summer training

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

All of the fire chiefs in Barton County meet quarterly, and last week’s
meeting included discussion on how to handle wildland fires. Fire crews from all
over southwest Kansas assisted with a large grass fire near Jetmore in Hodgeman
County last week. 

Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith said a Barton County task
force exists to help out any neighboring community.


"A call goes into dispatch and all the fire chiefs get notified," said Smith. "We decide what we're capable of sending. So we don't deplete our resources, we might send a brush truck and Ellinwood sends a tanker. Maybe Albert sends a brush truck and Hoisington sends a tanker. That way it doesn't deplete everybody's resources."

If Great Bend calls in a grass fire, Ellinwood and Albert fire departments will
immediately respond with a unit. The arrangement might include Hoisington or
Claflin. 

Smith said the fire department staff can even help homeowners in rural
areas on how to protect their properties.


"We gave a homeowner ideas, keeping his grass and fields short," said Smith. "Railroad ties, like everyone uses for landscaping, is a horrible thing around your house. Anything you can move six feet or more from your house is better."

Smith noted a decision will be made by each fire chief on whether they can
afford to send responders or resources.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708972720101.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAll of the fire chiefs in Barton County meet quarterly, and last week’s
meeting included discussion on how to handle wildland fires. Fire crews from all
over southwest Kansas assisted with a large grass fire near Jetmore in Hodgeman
County last week. Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith said a Barton County task
force exists to help out any neighboring community.
"A call goes into dispatch and all the fire chiefs get notified," said Smith. "We decide what we're capable of sending. So we don't deplete our resources, we might send a brush truck and Ellinwood sends a tanker. Maybe Albert sends a brush truck and Hoisington sends a tanker. That way it doesn't deplete everybody's resources."If Great Bend calls in a grass fire, Ellinwood and Albert fire departments will
immediately respond with a unit. The arrangement might include Hoisington or
Claflin. Smith said the fire department staff can even help homeowners in rural
areas on how to protect their properties.
"We gave a homeowner ideas, keeping his grass and fields short," said Smith. "Railroad ties, like everyone uses for landscaping, is a horrible thing around your house. Anything you can move six feet or more from your house is better."Smith noted a decision will be made by each fire chief on whether they can
afford to send responders or resources.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend and area departments plan for potential wildland fires

Encounter Church, 601 Patton Road in Great Bend, would like to invite the Great Bend area to attend its annual Candy Blast happening on Saturday, March 30. The fun starts indoors at noon with tons of games, music, and giveaways for kids of all ages. Any child who is registered by their parents will be eligible to win some of the great prizes handed out throughout the indoor hour. At 1 p.m., the fun moves outdoors to the west end of the property, where kids will take turns lining up in age groups to watch thousands of pieces of candy launched from huge cannons.

“Invite your friends and family and make plans to join us for this free event," said Children's Pastor Megan Tate. "There is lots of candy for all and we make sure that nobody leaves empty-handed. If you don't have a church home, we'd love to have you back on Easter Sunday at 10:30 a.m."

Anyone interested in learning more about the Candy Blast can find more details on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/3615007168737312/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[]%7D">Encounter Church Event Facebook page</a>. Visitors can also learn more about Encounter Church and its ministries online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.encounterchurchgb.com/" target="_blank">www.encounterchurchgb.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709733281339.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Encounter Church, 601 Patton Road in Great Bend, would like to invite the Great Bend area to attend its annual Candy Blast happening on Saturday, March 30. The fun starts indoors at noon with tons of games, music, and giveaways for kids of all ages. Any child who is registered by their parents will be eligible to win some of the great prizes handed out throughout the indoor hour. At 1 p.m., the fun moves outdoors to the west end of the property, where kids will take turns lining up in age groups to watch thousands of pieces of candy launched from huge cannons.“Invite your friends and family and make plans to join us for this free event," said Children's Pastor Megan Tate. "There is lots of candy for all and we make sure that nobody leaves empty-handed. If you don't have a church home, we'd love to have you back on Easter Sunday at 10:30 a.m."Anyone interested in learning more about the Candy Blast can find more details on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/3615007168737312/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[]%7D">Encounter Church Event Facebook page</a>. Visitors can also learn more about Encounter Church and its ministries online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.encounterchurchgb.com/" target="_blank">www.encounterchurchgb.com</a>.

Encounter Church in Great Bend announces date for Candy Blast

The American Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma is kicking off its annual Red Cross Month celebration in March to honor local community heroes who help ensure their neighbors never face crises alone.

Red Cross Month&nbsp;is a national tradition that&nbsp;began in March 1943 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Red Cross Month proclamation — and each U.S. president has followed ever since. We’re proud to see Red Cross Month observed locally as well.

“During Red Cross Month, we are proud to honor the people in our community who step up to support one another when help can’t wait during emergencies,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Alice Townsend, Regional CEO for the Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma. “This relief and hope wouldn’t be possible without these local heroes. Please consider joining in their commitment by donating, volunteering, giving blood or platelets, or taking a lifesaving skills course.”

Join the Red Cross Month celebration by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdTqaAJlt5LOCznNLmLfPjMA-3Db-iQ_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeAz6Np5y-2BQ-2FhOZuP-2B4A-2B6VDjvSdHjulY6tu8-2BH588eiKbDVKvBLcBZn0gvLGXEKW5syyeH-2Bkcd3i88CS-2Bxw8GTMHTcACS-2BohAgrmgcgGHWdX3xCKI1nA7TrHpD-2BCisa7TEip-2FOXnZ-2FYmrSFErisUke08-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;to make a financial donation, give blood or platelets, become a volunteer or&nbsp;take a lifesaving skills course.&nbsp;Those who donate at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUwba2AxdrqyNJiWbAOkw6f1FhkX_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeA1jHyEPYDDCCjR92IZgrX-2FbYYGwO5EtqqrJhFt1n2L5DpxwKwJAfiKABAb3QK0u6piLkoYG-2FfAZYn4lKcFXlviwy2b-2BqWX9VaowZrh6gD-2Bfzb3XP995lfu3M9EM60BDg6i2SsvLkM8G9uCaAAw4hij8-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/givingday</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;March 27&nbsp;will be part of the&nbsp;10th annual&nbsp;Red Cross Giving Day, which aims to rally 30,000 supporters nationwide to help provide shelter, food, relief items, emotional support and other assistance for people affected by disasters big and small.

As we approach the final weeks of winter, the public is urged to book a time to donate blood or platelets now as we continue to strengthen the blood supply heading into spring. Much like pets provide comfort and support, so does the Red Cross in local communities. As a thank-you for providing comfort during Red Cross Month, all come to give blood or platelets March 1–24 will get a $10 e-gift card to a pet supply merchant of choice, plus automatically be entered for a chance to win a $3,000 gift card. There will be five winners. See&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BjlOKn5gyoDa2kcQadnKwq4nHaJIVBj6JyDTQaACstCKJ1kRio-2BdHqtCeE9C9srBd9nHf0jIeB5KTjrRPVJsQ8-3D89uU_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeA2CHUtn-2BBiO87ViMy2iTnGl2qzefz0dx9abim96cdugk7CIPXeoi3hCXvdh9kgI2u3eEGp2x2I1XXsNV1qK0or-2F4VBHnAHFyEmUIk2Cw1f-2Bgu-2F-2F0jA6nd9JjN5TmvmuZmiQhn33UpU76bCsXsk9Osbo-3D" target="_blank">rcblood.org/Pets</a>&nbsp;for details.

HELP CAN’T WAIT WHEN EMERGENCIES STRIKE&nbsp;Volunteers comprise&nbsp;90%&nbsp;of the national Red Cross workforce to power its lifesaving mission, along with generous blood, platelet and financial donors; people trained in skills like first aid and CPR; and other supporters. Below are some of the ways that people from the Kansas-Oklahoma Region have delivered relief with the Red Cross in times of crisis:

About the American Red Cross:&nbsp;The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdTqaAJlt5LOCznNLmLfPjMA-3DhajM_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeA2cRwrwdJmNi7JFM39S-2FaUP8DV1namLS3Z1mGwYG6ZnrAlmqNQUyJJ2cHQj9o6OIgrKp4CcMl6zxPsxJB3g4ew2mOXx0Z-2BzYhOmw944pwVezYMIImrst-2BU9pD83cn-2FI0YzI4nSaor7-2FGuN7GOycMD6M-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdUZQJeB8xy1xrvGHkLBeWxCtE-2Fkovzq6moaPT7XK4Qc-2FXcds_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeA3X-2BHs-2FP-2FdeEx1idzhkdU2SeegN3OvcNsx0f6oEibwBl2I7-2FQEzbFKP7hE6ZgOTZ99XAln9kS9MHscGRlI-2BiM7XAua05onkdSWwOspnuFYKgC42pGwory-2FsJOeZEWuRAhOkLW3qU9vS461jrQ9jhC00-3D" target="_blank">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.

The American Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma is kicking off its annual Red Cross Month celebration in March to honor local community heroes who help ensure their neighbors never face crises alone.Red Cross Month&nbsp;is a national tradition that&nbsp;began in March 1943 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Red Cross Month proclamation — and each U.S. president has followed ever since. We’re proud to see Red Cross Month observed locally as well.<ul>
 <li>Proclamations issued by Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly and Shawnee, Oklahoma, Mayor Ed Bolt</li><li>Proclamations scheduled by Oklahoma State Sen. George Young, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt and others</li><li>Skydance Bridge in Oklahoma City lit in red on March 18</li>
 </ul>“During Red Cross Month, we are proud to honor the people in our community who step up to support one another when help can’t wait during emergencies,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Alice Townsend, Regional CEO for the Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma. “This relief and hope wouldn’t be possible without these local heroes. Please consider joining in their commitment by donating, volunteering, giving blood or platelets, or taking a lifesaving skills course.”Join the Red Cross Month celebration by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdTqaAJlt5LOCznNLmLfPjMA-3Db-iQ_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeAz6Np5y-2BQ-2FhOZuP-2B4A-2B6VDjvSdHjulY6tu8-2BH588eiKbDVKvBLcBZn0gvLGXEKW5syyeH-2Bkcd3i88CS-2Bxw8GTMHTcACS-2BohAgrmgcgGHWdX3xCKI1nA7TrHpD-2BCisa7TEip-2FOXnZ-2FYmrSFErisUke08-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;to make a financial donation, give blood or platelets, become a volunteer or&nbsp;take a lifesaving skills course.&nbsp;Those who donate at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUwba2AxdrqyNJiWbAOkw6f1FhkX_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeA1jHyEPYDDCCjR92IZgrX-2FbYYGwO5EtqqrJhFt1n2L5DpxwKwJAfiKABAb3QK0u6piLkoYG-2FfAZYn4lKcFXlviwy2b-2BqWX9VaowZrh6gD-2Bfzb3XP995lfu3M9EM60BDg6i2SsvLkM8G9uCaAAw4hij8-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/givingday</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;March 27&nbsp;will be part of the&nbsp;10th annual&nbsp;Red Cross Giving Day, which aims to rally 30,000 supporters nationwide to help provide shelter, food, relief items, emotional support and other assistance for people affected by disasters big and small.As we approach the final weeks of winter, the public is urged to book a time to donate blood or platelets now as we continue to strengthen the blood supply heading into spring. Much like pets provide comfort and support, so does the Red Cross in local communities. As a thank-you for providing comfort during Red Cross Month, all come to give blood or platelets March 1–24 will get a $10 e-gift card to a pet supply merchant of choice, plus automatically be entered for a chance to win a $3,000 gift card. There will be five winners. See&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BjlOKn5gyoDa2kcQadnKwq4nHaJIVBj6JyDTQaACstCKJ1kRio-2BdHqtCeE9C9srBd9nHf0jIeB5KTjrRPVJsQ8-3D89uU_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeA2CHUtn-2BBiO87ViMy2iTnGl2qzefz0dx9abim96cdugk7CIPXeoi3hCXvdh9kgI2u3eEGp2x2I1XXsNV1qK0or-2F4VBHnAHFyEmUIk2Cw1f-2Bgu-2F-2F0jA6nd9JjN5TmvmuZmiQhn33UpU76bCsXsk9Osbo-3D" target="_blank">rcblood.org/Pets</a>&nbsp;for details.HELP CAN’T WAIT WHEN EMERGENCIES STRIKE&nbsp;Volunteers comprise&nbsp;90%&nbsp;of the national Red Cross workforce to power its lifesaving mission, along with generous blood, platelet and financial donors; people trained in skills like first aid and CPR; and other supporters. Below are some of the ways that people from the Kansas-Oklahoma Region have delivered relief with the Red Cross in times of crisis:<ul>
 <li>Delivered more than 30,000 meals in the days after severe storms left thousands without power in Tulsa</li><li>Brought shelter, food and water, supplies and comfort to Oklahomans impacted by April tornadoes</li><li>Responded to more than 1,100 local disasters this fiscal year</li><li>Donated more than 60,000 units of blood</li><li>Nearly 34,000 people have taken Red Cross training courses</li>
 </ul>About the American Red Cross:&nbsp;The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdTqaAJlt5LOCznNLmLfPjMA-3DhajM_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeA2cRwrwdJmNi7JFM39S-2FaUP8DV1namLS3Z1mGwYG6ZnrAlmqNQUyJJ2cHQj9o6OIgrKp4CcMl6zxPsxJB3g4ew2mOXx0Z-2BzYhOmw944pwVezYMIImrst-2BU9pD83cn-2FI0YzI4nSaor7-2FGuN7GOycMD6M-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdUZQJeB8xy1xrvGHkLBeWxCtE-2Fkovzq6moaPT7XK4Qc-2FXcds_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpeAXMiUx6rpd60FolrPY6-2Ba72ZdAmVHa9iecmEWwQUlrHvTu08sP7aHYSAzftpotVmYzhETPRDdRScvpHy8MkEvKeJpIV-2FjW2eajgpQ2uON-2B7SSiSt3VDurnMxS2McgQzXEi82x5A9TaA3psJ5qEJQSSNLCHz6XA0A1a2dBE-2FqeA3X-2BHs-2FP-2FdeEx1idzhkdU2SeegN3OvcNsx0f6oEibwBl2I7-2FQEzbFKP7hE6ZgOTZ99XAln9kS9MHscGRlI-2BiM7XAua05onkdSWwOspnuFYKgC42pGwory-2FsJOeZEWuRAhOkLW3qU9vS461jrQ9jhC00-3D" target="_blank">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.

Red Cross Month kicks off to honor community heroes

A new piece of laboratory equipment at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) is saving time, while offering more options and high-quality test results, said Kristi Engle, lab supervisor.

The equipment is called an Ortho Vitros XT7600, a chemistry/immunoassay analyzer; it replaced a 9-year-old model.

Examples of chemistry tests include sodium, potassium, creatinine, calcium, cholesterol and uric acid.

Immunoassay tests include: thyroid stimulating hormone; prostate specific antigen; cardiac enzymes; and ferritin, a test used to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of iron-deficiency anemia.

“This new analyzer performs a total of 53 different lab tests,” Engle said. “The total number of patient tests performed by this instrument makes up approximately 70 percent of our volume.”

In addition, the equipment gives the lab the opportunity to expand their test menu by adding new testing options such as Vitamin D and parathyroid tests.

Because of the new analyzer’s added capabilities, the level of care at PVCH is enhanced, Engle noted.

For example, she explained, the previous model depended on a water system to operate. The water was used for the calibrations of tests and calculation of patient results.

“The quality of the water directly correlated to the quality of results,” the lab supervisor commented. “It took additional time, energy and costs to maintain a high level of water quality to ensure accurate patient results.

“Our new analyzer does not require a water system. Removing water from the equation gives us consistent and reliable results without spending the extra time.”

Lab information The lab is staffed 24/7 to accommodate inpatients, and the Emergency and Outpatient Nursing departments. Outpatient services are available from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays; no appointment is necessary. Local and non-local physician orders are accepted.

In addition, the lab is a drug-screen collection site for the Kansas Department of Transportation, and provides testing for local entities such as long-term-care residences and home-health agencies.

The hospital’s lab is CLIA certified, which ensures quality testing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709307440038.jpeg" alt="Laboratory personnel at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital display their new equipment. From left to right are: Dominique Hiss, Kristi Engle, Nishka McKenzie and Megan Grandy." />
 <figcaption>Laboratory personnel at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital display their new equipment. From left to right are: Dominique Hiss, Kristi Engle, Nishka McKenzie and Megan Grandy.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSA new piece of laboratory equipment at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) is saving time, while offering more options and high-quality test results, said Kristi Engle, lab supervisor.The equipment is called an Ortho Vitros XT7600, a chemistry/immunoassay analyzer; it replaced a 9-year-old model.Examples of chemistry tests include sodium, potassium, creatinine, calcium, cholesterol and uric acid.Immunoassay tests include: thyroid stimulating hormone; prostate specific antigen; cardiac enzymes; and ferritin, a test used to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of iron-deficiency anemia.“This new analyzer performs a total of 53 different lab tests,” Engle said. “The total number of patient tests performed by this instrument makes up approximately 70 percent of our volume.”In addition, the equipment gives the lab the opportunity to expand their test menu by adding new testing options such as Vitamin D and parathyroid tests.Because of the new analyzer’s added capabilities, the level of care at PVCH is enhanced, Engle noted.For example, she explained, the previous model depended on a water system to operate. The water was used for the calibrations of tests and calculation of patient results.“The quality of the water directly correlated to the quality of results,” the lab supervisor commented. “It took additional time, energy and costs to maintain a high level of water quality to ensure accurate patient results.“Our new analyzer does not require a water system. Removing water from the equation gives us consistent and reliable results without spending the extra time.”Lab information The lab is staffed 24/7 to accommodate inpatients, and the Emergency and Outpatient Nursing departments. Outpatient services are available from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays; no appointment is necessary. Local and non-local physician orders are accepted.In addition, the lab is a drug-screen collection site for the Kansas Department of Transportation, and provides testing for local entities such as long-term-care residences and home-health agencies.The hospital’s lab is CLIA certified, which ensures quality testing.

New lab equipment increases options at Larned hospital

A public hearing for a dangerous building was held Monday night during
the Great Bend City Council meeting. Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns
informed the board of the status of the deteriorating accessory structure at
2421 12th Street. 

Burns said there is roof exposure and leaning
walls due to braced wall conditions.


"There are tree limbs up against the structure," said Burns. "This is not the owner of the property doing this. We had some individuals that were staying there but have since taken care of. There are tree limbs currently holding it up."

The first resolution of the dangerous structure was passed on Jan. 15,
was mailed certified to all owners or lien holders, but everything came back
unclaimed. Burns said the house on the property will be coming before the
council soon.


"We were able to get in on a search warrant of the actual house," said Burns. "The Barton County Sheriff's Office served that and gave us a call. We will be looking to bring the house up on a public hearing as a dangerous building as well because it's in no better condition."

The structure will need to be repaired or destroyed by April 5.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700585273134.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostA public hearing for a dangerous building was held Monday night during
the Great Bend City Council meeting. Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns
informed the board of the status of the deteriorating accessory structure at
2421 12th Street. Burns said there is roof exposure and leaning
walls due to braced wall conditions.
"There are tree limbs up against the structure," said Burns. "This is not the owner of the property doing this. We had some individuals that were staying there but have since taken care of. There are tree limbs currently holding it up."The first resolution of the dangerous structure was passed on Jan. 15,
was mailed certified to all owners or lien holders, but everything came back
unclaimed. Burns said the house on the property will be coming before the
council soon.
"We were able to get in on a search warrant of the actual house," said Burns. "The Barton County Sheriff's Office served that and gave us a call. We will be looking to bring the house up on a public hearing as a dangerous building as well because it's in no better condition."The structure will need to be repaired or destroyed by April 5.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend preparing to destroy dangerous structure on 12th Street

The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a few different Kids Day Out Activities on March 12th&nbsp;and 13th.&nbsp; Pre-registration is required by 5:00 pm on Thursday, March 7th, for the following programs.&nbsp; Please let us know at registration if your child has any food allergies that we need to be aware of.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cooking Supper:&nbsp; During this class, students will be cooking a meal for dinner that night to enjoy with one adult.&nbsp; Students will also be decorating the table that you will enjoy your meal at and learn how to set a table.&nbsp; This program will be held on Tuesday, March 12th, at the Great Bend Rec Center (1214 Stone St) from 1:00 – 5:45 pm for children in 2nd&nbsp;through 5th&nbsp;grades.&nbsp;

Investigating Spring Break:&nbsp; During the morning, Christian Rivas, the Coordinator &amp; Instructor of the Barton Community College Criminal Justice program, will join us.&nbsp; He will be sharing some information about what he does at the college along with some fun investigative activities with the kids.&nbsp; In the afternoon, we will go bowling at Walnut Bowl along with other organized activities.&nbsp; For lunch, students will enjoy pizza, fruit, and a beverage.&nbsp; Students will be bussed by USD 428.&nbsp; This program will be held on Tuesday, March 12th, at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street) from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm for children in 1st&nbsp;through 6th&nbsp;grades.

Babysitting 101:&nbsp; This course gives participants the knowledge, skills, and confidence to care for toddlers through school-aged children.&nbsp; Topics include safety issues, preventing injuries and illness, basic childcare, and age-appropriate activities to do with children.&nbsp; This program will be held on Wednesday, March 13th, at the Cottonwood Extension District Office (3007 10th&nbsp;St) from 1:00 – 5:00 pm for children ages 11 and older.

History of Barton County:&nbsp; The morning will consist of crafts, games, and other organized activities at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center.&nbsp; In the afternoon, we’re going to be taking steps back in time and learn about some history of Barton County at the Barton County Historical Society.&nbsp; For lunch, students will enjoy pizza, fruit, and a beverage.&nbsp; Students will be bussed by USD 428.&nbsp; This program will be held on Wednesday, March 13th, at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th) from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm for children in 1st&nbsp;through 6th&nbsp;grades.

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>.&nbsp; 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/2023/7/1688393232509.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Recreation Commission will be hosting a few different Kids Day Out Activities on March 12th&nbsp;and 13th.&nbsp; Pre-registration is required by 5:00 pm on Thursday, March 7th, for the following programs.&nbsp; Please let us know at registration if your child has any food allergies that we need to be aware of.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooking Supper:&nbsp; During this class, students will be cooking a meal for dinner that night to enjoy with one adult.&nbsp; Students will also be decorating the table that you will enjoy your meal at and learn how to set a table.&nbsp; This program will be held on Tuesday, March 12th, at the Great Bend Rec Center (1214 Stone St) from 1:00 – 5:45 pm for children in 2nd&nbsp;through 5th&nbsp;grades.&nbsp;Investigating Spring Break:&nbsp; During the morning, Christian Rivas, the Coordinator &amp; Instructor of the Barton Community College Criminal Justice program, will join us.&nbsp; He will be sharing some information about what he does at the college along with some fun investigative activities with the kids.&nbsp; In the afternoon, we will go bowling at Walnut Bowl along with other organized activities.&nbsp; For lunch, students will enjoy pizza, fruit, and a beverage.&nbsp; Students will be bussed by USD 428.&nbsp; This program will be held on Tuesday, March 12th, at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th&nbsp;Street) from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm for children in 1st&nbsp;through 6th&nbsp;grades.Babysitting 101:&nbsp; This course gives participants the knowledge, skills, and confidence to care for toddlers through school-aged children.&nbsp; Topics include safety issues, preventing injuries and illness, basic childcare, and age-appropriate activities to do with children.&nbsp; This program will be held on Wednesday, March 13th, at the Cottonwood Extension District Office (3007 10th&nbsp;St) from 1:00 – 5:00 pm for children ages 11 and older.History of Barton County:&nbsp; The morning will consist of crafts, games, and other organized activities at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center.&nbsp; In the afternoon, we’re going to be taking steps back in time and learn about some history of Barton County at the Barton County Historical Society.&nbsp; For lunch, students will enjoy pizza, fruit, and a beverage.&nbsp; Students will be bussed by USD 428.&nbsp; This program will be held on Wednesday, March 13th, at the Great Bend Rec Activity Center (2715 18th) from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm for children in 1st&nbsp;through 6th&nbsp;grades.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>.&nbsp; 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.

Great Bend Rec: Spring break, kids day out activities

While it was publicly announced in early 2022, the official dedication of
naming the city courtroom will take place March 28. 

Bob Suelter
served the City of Great Bend for 42 years as the city attorney. City
Administrator Brandon Anderson said the dedication will name the courtroom the
Robert G. Suelter Courtroom at the Great Bend Municipal Court.


"I'm excited to be able to do that on March 28," said Anderson. "We'll be dedicating that courtroom to Bob Suelter. There will be light refreshments. We'll get that heavily publicized in the coming weeks. We had to postpone that from early on."

The dedication will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the newly built Justice Center, 1121 Baker Avenue. The $9 million facility includes the courtroom and the police
station.


Suelter began working for Great Bend as a part-time attorney in 1979 and
retired in November 2021. Suelter practiced private law while working for Great
Bend until 1995 when he went fulltime for the city.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636519942045.jpeg" alt="The Great Bend Municipal Court will be named after retired city attorney Bob Suelter (right)." />
 <figcaption>The Great Bend Municipal Court will be named after retired city attorney Bob Suelter (right).</figcaption>
 </figure>While it was publicly announced in early 2022, the official dedication of
naming the city courtroom will take place March 28. Bob Suelter
served the City of Great Bend for 42 years as the city attorney. City
Administrator Brandon Anderson said the dedication will name the courtroom the
Robert G. Suelter Courtroom at the Great Bend Municipal Court.
"I'm excited to be able to do that on March 28," said Anderson. "We'll be dedicating that courtroom to Bob Suelter. There will be light refreshments. We'll get that heavily publicized in the coming weeks. We had to postpone that from early on."The dedication will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the newly built Justice Center, 1121 Baker Avenue. The $9 million facility includes the courtroom and the police
station.
Suelter began working for Great Bend as a part-time attorney in 1979 and
retired in November 2021. Suelter practiced private law while working for Great
Bend until 1995 when he went fulltime for the city.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend courtroom dedication for Bob Suelter March 28

3/5 BOOKED: Leroy Miessler on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.

RELEASED: Leroy Miessler on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647271132908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3/5 BOOKED: Leroy Miessler on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $500 C/S.RELEASED: Leroy Miessler on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (3/5)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Four state trophies in four years. Great Bend High School seniors Kaylin Wahlmeier and Emilee Nelson set a standard for success on the Lady Panther bowling team that placed second at state four years ago. The girls helped the team to a third-place finish as sophomores, then closed out their careers with back-to-back Class 5A state championships. This year, Wahlmeier and Nelson were joined by seniors Paige Heine and Rionna Rodriguez. 

"It's just huge for these girls to know they've brought home four trophies in their four-year reign," said Lady Panther Coach David Feldbauer. "It's going to be a huge loss to the Great Bend girls, but I know there have been a couple of new girls on the JV team that are going to be able to step up and help Zoey and Brooklynn (Mayberry) next year. I think we'll still be able to compete. I think it will still be a good time for the Great Bend girls."

Another state title was always part of the equation entering the 2023-24 season. That confidence took a brief hit in regional action as the Lady Panthers struggled to a third-place finish in Hutchinson.

"The girls knew it was going to be tough, especially having the hardest regional in 5A that we were in," Feldbauer said. "Everybody was glad just to be able to make it state. We practiced a little harder knowing we are one of the top four schools in 5A. We came out and showed we can bowl."

Wahlmeier bowled a 752 to win the individual state title at Wichita's Northrock Lanes two years ago. She dropped to eighth as a junior with a 584. Last Friday, she opened with games of 199 and 231 to finish fourth overall with a 613 series.

Wahlmeier's hopes of another title may have been dashed early in the day. Goddard-Eisenhower's Olyvia Choura opened with a 278 game and just missed 200s in her final two games to win the championship by 32 pins with a 674 series.

"We were definitely watching her because we were bowling with her," said Feldbauer. "We always pay attention to Eisenhower because some of the girls are friends with each other and they all cheer each other on. They were all having fun watching her bowl a really good game. (Assistant Coach Steve Long) and I were definitely keeping track of how they were finishing and going out."

Nelson missed the top 15 at state last year by a single pin. She opened with games of 200 and 197 Friday to finish with a 578 series for 10th. She lost a tie-break with Salina Central for the No. 9 spot.

"It was great to see," Feldbauer said. "Emilee shot her highest set of the year at state. That was awesome getting into the top 10 for the first time in her four-year career at Great Bend."

Zoey Mayberry made a big splash on last year's team as a freshman, finishing sixth overall and missing the top five by just two pins. Friday, despite battling a shoulder injury, she still rolled games of 204 and 189 to place 13th overall with a 565 series, missing the top 10 by just 13 pins.

Then there was Heine. She competed at state as a junior, finishing with a 340 series. She was doing better in her senior campaign with games of 155 and 145 to open state. She added 63 pins to her earlier game to shoot a 218 in game three. The Panthers only defeated Eisenhower by 115 pins for the team championship.

"That third game from Paige was huge," Feldbauer said. "It kept us being able to bowl where we were at, especially when a couple of girls got down and she stepped up. I think she threw four or five strikes in a row to improve big time and be able to lead her team into Baker games. It gave us a boost knowing we could rely on her for marks in the Baker games."

Freshman Brooklynn Mayberry bowled well at the varsity level all season. She opened with a 169 Friday but dropped to a 129 in game two to finish with a 448 series. Rodriguez topped out 171 in the middle game for a 426 series.

"The experience is great to have," Feldbauer said of Mayberry's first trip to state. "I think next year, having the one year under her belt, she can calm back down and bowl really well for us."

The top four series were counted towards Great Bend's team score. The Lady Panthers entered Baker action with just a 34-pin lead against Eisenhower, and a 98-pin advantage over Maize South.

The Lady Panthers opened Baker action with a 170 compared to just 114 from Eisenhower. Maize South gained seven pins with a 177. Great Bend picked up 29 pins against the Mavs in game two but lost four pins to Eisenhower. The Lady Panthers rolled a 172 in game three to increase the lead against both schools.

"I didn't know where we were standing after that third game because they didn't post anything at state," Feldbauer said. "I was really trying to get the girls amped up to shoot a big one but we didn't. Just staying consistent, it paid off."

The Lady Panthers lost four pins to Eisenhower in the final Baker game but the earlier work paid off. Maize South, with a pair of 135s in Baker action, dropped to fourth place, missing the final state trophy by just 40 pins. Great Bend finished with 2,996 total pins. Eisenhower finished second with 2,881.

The Lady Panthers were not quite finished. After a brief celebration at the bowling alley, the girls made it home in time to be recognized in front of a packed gymnasium at halftime of the boys' substate championship basketball game against Hutchinson.

"It was awesome to see the crowd stand up and for us all and get the recognition for the girls who well deserve it," Feldbauer said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709661627763.jpeg" alt="The Lady Panther bowling team was recognized at halftime of last Friday's substate basketball championship game, just hours after winning a second straight Class 5A state championship in Wichita." />
 <figcaption>The Lady Panther bowling team was recognized at halftime of last Friday's substate basketball championship game, just hours after winning a second straight Class 5A state championship in Wichita.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFour state trophies in four years. Great Bend High School seniors Kaylin Wahlmeier and Emilee Nelson set a standard for success on the Lady Panther bowling team that placed second at state four years ago. The girls helped the team to a third-place finish as sophomores, then closed out their careers with back-to-back Class 5A state championships. This year, Wahlmeier and Nelson were joined by seniors Paige Heine and Rionna Rodriguez. "It's just huge for these girls to know they've brought home four trophies in their four-year reign," said Lady Panther Coach David Feldbauer. "It's going to be a huge loss to the Great Bend girls, but I know there have been a couple of new girls on the JV team that are going to be able to step up and help Zoey and Brooklynn (Mayberry) next year. I think we'll still be able to compete. I think it will still be a good time for the Great Bend girls."Another state title was always part of the equation entering the 2023-24 season. That confidence took a brief hit in regional action as the Lady Panthers struggled to a third-place finish in Hutchinson."The girls knew it was going to be tough, especially having the hardest regional in 5A that we were in," Feldbauer said. "Everybody was glad just to be able to make it state. We practiced a little harder knowing we are one of the top four schools in 5A. We came out and showed we can bowl."Wahlmeier bowled a 752 to win the individual state title at Wichita's Northrock Lanes two years ago. She dropped to eighth as a junior with a 584. Last Friday, she opened with games of 199 and 231 to finish fourth overall with a 613 series.Wahlmeier's hopes of another title may have been dashed early in the day. Goddard-Eisenhower's Olyvia Choura opened with a 278 game and just missed 200s in her final two games to win the championship by 32 pins with a 674 series."We were definitely watching her because we were bowling with her," said Feldbauer. "We always pay attention to Eisenhower because some of the girls are friends with each other and they all cheer each other on. They were all having fun watching her bowl a really good game. (Assistant Coach Steve Long) and I were definitely keeping track of how they were finishing and going out."Nelson missed the top 15 at state last year by a single pin. She opened with games of 200 and 197 Friday to finish with a 578 series for 10th. She lost a tie-break with Salina Central for the No. 9 spot."It was great to see," Feldbauer said. "Emilee shot her highest set of the year at state. That was awesome getting into the top 10 for the first time in her four-year career at Great Bend."Zoey Mayberry made a big splash on last year's team as a freshman, finishing sixth overall and missing the top five by just two pins. Friday, despite battling a shoulder injury, she still rolled games of 204 and 189 to place 13th overall with a 565 series, missing the top 10 by just 13 pins.Then there was Heine. She competed at state as a junior, finishing with a 340 series. She was doing better in her senior campaign with games of 155 and 145 to open state. She added 63 pins to her earlier game to shoot a 218 in game three. The Panthers only defeated Eisenhower by 115 pins for the team championship."That third game from Paige was huge," Feldbauer said. "It kept us being able to bowl where we were at, especially when a couple of girls got down and she stepped up. I think she threw four or five strikes in a row to improve big time and be able to lead her team into Baker games. It gave us a boost knowing we could rely on her for marks in the Baker games."Freshman Brooklynn Mayberry bowled well at the varsity level all season. She opened with a 169 Friday but dropped to a 129 in game two to finish with a 448 series. Rodriguez topped out 171 in the middle game for a 426 series."The experience is great to have," Feldbauer said of Mayberry's first trip to state. "I think next year, having the one year under her belt, she can calm back down and bowl really well for us."The top four series were counted towards Great Bend's team score. The Lady Panthers entered Baker action with just a 34-pin lead against Eisenhower, and a 98-pin advantage over Maize South.The Lady Panthers opened Baker action with a 170 compared to just 114 from Eisenhower. Maize South gained seven pins with a 177. Great Bend picked up 29 pins against the Mavs in game two but lost four pins to Eisenhower. The Lady Panthers rolled a 172 in game three to increase the lead against both schools."I didn't know where we were standing after that third game because they didn't post anything at state," Feldbauer said. "I was really trying to get the girls amped up to shoot a big one but we didn't. Just staying consistent, it paid off."The Lady Panthers lost four pins to Eisenhower in the final Baker game but the earlier work paid off. Maize South, with a pair of 135s in Baker action, dropped to fourth place, missing the final state trophy by just 40 pins. Great Bend finished with 2,996 total pins. Eisenhower finished second with 2,881.The Lady Panthers were not quite finished. After a brief celebration at the bowling alley, the girls made it home in time to be recognized in front of a packed gymnasium at halftime of the boys' substate championship basketball game against Hutchinson."It was awesome to see the crowd stand up and for us all and get the recognition for the girls who well deserve it," Feldbauer said.

Four state trophies in four years for pair of GBHS bowlers

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 60. Light east-southeast wind becoming south-southeast 8 to 13 mph in the morning.

Tonight A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly after 3 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41. Southeast wind 8 to 10 mph.

Thursday A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. Cloudy, with a high near 58. East-northeast wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Thursday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Cloudy, with a low around 34. North wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday A chance of rain showers before 3 p.m., then a chance of rain and snow showers. Cloudy, with a high near 42. Breezy, with a north wind 18 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Blustery.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 50.

Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 27.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 64.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 70.

Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. Breezy.

Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 72. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 60. Light east-southeast wind becoming south-southeast 8 to 13 mph in the morning.Tonight A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly after 3 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41. Southeast wind 8 to 10 mph.Thursday A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. Cloudy, with a high near 58. East-northeast wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Thursday Night Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Cloudy, with a low around 34. North wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.Friday A chance of rain showers before 3 p.m., then a chance of rain and snow showers. Cloudy, with a high near 42. Breezy, with a north wind 18 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Blustery.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 50.Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 27.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 64.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 36.Monday Sunny, with a high near 70.Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. Breezy.Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 72. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

STAFFORD COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Tuesday in Stafford County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Toyota Corolla driven by Aurelia&nbsp;Hinojos, 39, Garden City, was eastbound on U.S. 50 at NW 110th Avenue.

The car struck a southbound 2011 International Feed Truck driven by&nbsp; Albino G.&nbsp;Acosta, 58, Macksville, who failed to yield to traffic after stopping at the intersection.

EMS transported&nbsp;Hinojos and a passenger in the Toyota identified as Victor&nbsp;Mendoza Aparicio, 40, Garden City, to the Stafford County Hospital. Acosta was not injured. The driver and adult passenger of the Toyota were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP. Three juveniles were present in the Toyota; juvenile record protected data.

STAFFORD COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Tuesday in Stafford County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Toyota Corolla driven by Aurelia&nbsp;Hinojos, 39, Garden City, was eastbound on U.S. 50 at NW 110th Avenue.The car struck a southbound 2011 International Feed Truck driven by&nbsp; Albino G.&nbsp;Acosta, 58, Macksville, who failed to yield to traffic after stopping at the intersection.EMS transported&nbsp;Hinojos and a passenger in the Toyota identified as Victor&nbsp;Mendoza Aparicio, 40, Garden City, to the Stafford County Hospital. Acosta was not injured. The driver and adult passenger of the Toyota were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP. Three juveniles were present in the Toyota; juvenile record protected data.

Kan. man, woman hospitalized after car, feed truck crash

Since releasing a draft of regulations pertaining to large-scale commercial and non-commercial solar energy conversion systems (SECS) in the county, the Barton County Planning Commission has heard from 39 citizens in two public comment hearings. At the second meeting Thursday night at the Hoisington Activity Center, Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham laid the ground rules to keep the meeting productive.

"If you present tonight, you have to keep to specifically about these three documents we're looking to adopt," she said. "If you're here to talk economic impact, or you're here to talk about any one specific solar company, please don't ask to come up and speak because that's not why we're here."

The proposed zoning map includes a no-build area for SECS roughly one mile around Cheyenne Bottoms. Paula Manweiler referenced an April 27 planning commission meeting in which a 6-mile no-build zone was included around the wetlands and asked the board why it reverted back to the smaller zone after the Audobon Society suggested a zone of four to six miles.

"In that letter, it also mentions that over 50 percent of the wetlands in North America have been destroyed,"Manweiler said. "We have something very special here in our county, and our county is very big. There are many places people can build commercial solar farms, but Cheyenne Bottoms can't be it."

"We had a unique situation in April," Goreham said. "There was a motion made during a planning commission meeting that carried, so I had to take it to the county commission. The problem is that we don't take things to the county commission until we hold public hearings. There had never been a public hearing handled. The county commissioners had the option to accept it, knowing it's not appropriate. It wasn't legally done right through statute."

The county commission rejected the 6-mile boundary, instead opting to implement a moratorium on solar development in the county to give the planning commission time to develop regulations.

"The last thing (the planning commission) talked about was the no-build potential," Goreham said. "Are they going to have a no-build recommendation or not? What they decided at the Jan. 11, 2024 meeting was to have the exact same no-build proposal as we currently have for single-use wind turbines."

Goreham explained that Barton County does not have regulations for wind farms, though the board will consider regulations after the large-scale solar regulations are approved. An area extending three to four miles from Cheyenne Bottoms is listed as a conditionally permitted zone for single-use wind turbines. All SECS built in the county's zoning area would have to undergo the same permitting process.

Goreham also explained the conditional permit process. All properties covered by Barton County zoning regulations fall into one of seven districts. In each district, there is a list of permitted uses, which are allowed. Other uses must go through the conditional permit process that triggers a public hearing, requires notification of every landowner within 1,000 feet of the proposed project site, and requires a public hearing. A two-week protest period must pass after the hearing, at which time the matter goes before the county board of commissioners. That body can approve the planning board's recommendation with a simple majority vote, or it can reject or amend the planning board's recommendation with a supermajority.

The planning commission held another meeting Monday night in Hoisington to review comments and concerns from the first two meetings and apply them to the proposed regulations. The board has a regularly scheduled meeting in the Juvenile Services conference room in Great Bend at 9 a.m. on March 14. The board could vote on a recommendation of the proposed solar regulations at that meeting.

"We don't have to do the 14-day protest because that actually started last Thursday (Feb. 22)," Goreham said. "They would be able to vote on it the 14th and it could go straight to the county commissioners the next week. However, that's not generally protocol."

Generally, Goreham will discuss any recommendations from the planning commission with the board of commissioners in a study session. The matter could still go before the county commissioners for a vote on March 26, just a few days ahead of the moratorium's current expiration date of March 31. 

Other discussion items from last Thurday's meeting:

- Several residents have suggested no-build zones along the Scenic Byway that extends well beyond Cheyenne Bottoms. Goreham said the planning commission will not be adding language to the solar regulations as the Byway is already covered in other zoning ordinances.

- A resident raised concerns about the use of chain-link fencing around any solar projects. The proposed regulations do include language that states, "Wildlife-friendly fencing shall be used where possible."

- A resident raised concerns about groundwater testing and contamination. The proposed regulations require a certified groundwater test at least 90 days before the installation of a project. The planning board will consider adding requirements for maintained testing or how instances of groundwater contamination will be addressed.

 - The planning board will also review requirements relating to battery storage and fire safety, and will review several hundred suggestions from Acciona Energy regarding the proposed regulations.

Find links to the proposed solar regulations by <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/ART/65aeb550022f2">CLICKING HERE.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708631067565.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSince releasing a draft of regulations pertaining to large-scale commercial and non-commercial solar energy conversion systems (SECS) in the county, the Barton County Planning Commission has heard from 39 citizens in two public comment hearings. At the second meeting Thursday night at the Hoisington Activity Center, Zoning Administrator Judy Goreham laid the ground rules to keep the meeting productive."If you present tonight, you have to keep to specifically about these three documents we're looking to adopt," she said. "If you're here to talk economic impact, or you're here to talk about any one specific solar company, please don't ask to come up and speak because that's not why we're here."The proposed zoning map includes a no-build area for SECS roughly one mile around Cheyenne Bottoms. Paula Manweiler referenced an April 27 planning commission meeting in which a 6-mile no-build zone was included around the wetlands and asked the board why it reverted back to the smaller zone after the Audobon Society suggested a zone of four to six miles."In that letter, it also mentions that over 50 percent of the wetlands in North America have been destroyed,"Manweiler said. "We have something very special here in our county, and our county is very big. There are many places people can build commercial solar farms, but Cheyenne Bottoms can't be it.""We had a unique situation in April," Goreham said. "There was a motion made during a planning commission meeting that carried, so I had to take it to the county commission. The problem is that we don't take things to the county commission until we hold public hearings. There had never been a public hearing handled. The county commissioners had the option to accept it, knowing it's not appropriate. It wasn't legally done right through statute."The county commission rejected the 6-mile boundary, instead opting to implement a moratorium on solar development in the county to give the planning commission time to develop regulations."The last thing (the planning commission) talked about was the no-build potential," Goreham said. "Are they going to have a no-build recommendation or not? What they decided at the Jan. 11, 2024 meeting was to have the exact same no-build proposal as we currently have for single-use wind turbines."Goreham explained that Barton County does not have regulations for wind farms, though the board will consider regulations after the large-scale solar regulations are approved. An area extending three to four miles from Cheyenne Bottoms is listed as a conditionally permitted zone for single-use wind turbines. All SECS built in the county's zoning area would have to undergo the same permitting process.Goreham also explained the conditional permit process. All properties covered by Barton County zoning regulations fall into one of seven districts. In each district, there is a list of permitted uses, which are allowed. Other uses must go through the conditional permit process that triggers a public hearing, requires notification of every landowner within 1,000 feet of the proposed project site, and requires a public hearing. A two-week protest period must pass after the hearing, at which time the matter goes before the county board of commissioners. That body can approve the planning board's recommendation with a simple majority vote, or it can reject or amend the planning board's recommendation with a supermajority.The planning commission held another meeting Monday night in Hoisington to review comments and concerns from the first two meetings and apply them to the proposed regulations. The board has a regularly scheduled meeting in the Juvenile Services conference room in Great Bend at 9 a.m. on March 14. The board could vote on a recommendation of the proposed solar regulations at that meeting."We don't have to do the 14-day protest because that actually started last Thursday (Feb. 22)," Goreham said. "They would be able to vote on it the 14th and it could go straight to the county commissioners the next week. However, that's not generally protocol."Generally, Goreham will discuss any recommendations from the planning commission with the board of commissioners in a study session. The matter could still go before the county commissioners for a vote on March 26, just a few days ahead of the moratorium's current expiration date of March 31. Other discussion items from last Thurday's meeting:- Several residents have suggested no-build zones along the Scenic Byway that extends well beyond Cheyenne Bottoms. Goreham said the planning commission will not be adding language to the solar regulations as the Byway is already covered in other zoning ordinances.- A resident raised concerns about the use of chain-link fencing around any solar projects. The proposed regulations do include language that states, "Wildlife-friendly fencing shall be used where possible."- A resident raised concerns about groundwater testing and contamination. The proposed regulations require a certified groundwater test at least 90 days before the installation of a project. The planning board will consider adding requirements for maintained testing or how instances of groundwater contamination will be addressed. - The planning board will also review requirements relating to battery storage and fire safety, and will review several hundred suggestions from Acciona Energy regarding the proposed regulations.Find links to the proposed solar regulations by <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vnews/display.v/ART/65aeb550022f2">CLICKING HERE.</a>

Barton Planning Commission ready to 'hammer out' details on solar regs

Kelly's Garden Sense boasts two Greenhouses. Named after her grandfathers, Bill is the Retail Shopping and Event Greenhouse and Milt is the Growing Greenhouse. Milt is currently undergoing a 40' expansion to the east of the property and will be celebrated with a Ribbon Cutting on Thursday, March 21 following the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce coffee hour. &nbsp;

The crew has termed the greenhouse shopping experience the "Diamond in the Dirt," situated just one block East of the city limits (on a dirt road) at 134 NE 10 Ave. Great Bend. 

From locally grown annuals resilient to the Kansas heat to exotic tropical plants and succulents that add a distinctive touch to your landscape, and even rare house plant varieties for year-round enjoyment – the greenhouses are a haven for plant lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike.

2024 will mark growth for Kelly’s Garden Sense, an expansion of the greenhouse and increased shopping hours daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Join Kelly’s Garden Sense for a ribbon cutting and open house on Thursday, March 21 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Ribbon Cutting around 10:30 a.m. following the Chamber coffee).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709564951250.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUSINESS NEWSKelly's Garden Sense boasts two Greenhouses. Named after her grandfathers, Bill is the Retail Shopping and Event Greenhouse and Milt is the Growing Greenhouse. Milt is currently undergoing a 40' expansion to the east of the property and will be celebrated with a Ribbon Cutting on Thursday, March 21 following the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce coffee hour. &nbsp;The crew has termed the greenhouse shopping experience the "Diamond in the Dirt," situated just one block East of the city limits (on a dirt road) at 134 NE 10 Ave. Great Bend. From locally grown annuals resilient to the Kansas heat to exotic tropical plants and succulents that add a distinctive touch to your landscape, and even rare house plant varieties for year-round enjoyment – the greenhouses are a haven for plant lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike.2024 will mark growth for Kelly’s Garden Sense, an expansion of the greenhouse and increased shopping hours daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.Join Kelly’s Garden Sense for a ribbon cutting and open house on Thursday, March 21 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Ribbon Cutting around 10:30 a.m. following the Chamber coffee).

Great Bend greenhouse expanding; ribbon cutting this month

More than 140 vendors attended the 76th Omaha International Boat Sports and Travel Show in Nebraska over the final week of February. Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau staff were among the vendors greeting the many thousands of visitors at the show. Director Christina Hayes said CBV's goal at the show was to promote the weekend getaway.

"Numbers were similar to last year," she said. "We had direct contact with about 2,055 people, and 649 of them were kids. What's great about that is we have a partnership with Kansas Wetlands Education Center. We do a little egg activity, so it does keep them at our booth for 3-5 minutes as they do that little activity with us. It does help us create conversations and ways for them to have a fun family getaway."

CVB staff chooses the Omaha show each year because the largest city in Nebraska is less than five hours from Great Bend. Visitors at the show are the type that would enjoy the bird-watching, hunting, and outdoor activities that Great Bend and the surrounding area offer. This year, the CVB had even more activities to promote. 

"One thing that was different this year is that many, many people stopped and we were talking about the Airfest. I truly am excited to see if our online ticket sales from Omaha are higher. We're excited to see what's next, and it's just an overall great annual show for the CVB to represent Great Bend."

The Omaha International Boat Sports and Travel Show was held from Feb. 22-25 this year. Other vendors sold hunting gear, resort trips, and marine goods.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709562284585.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMore than 140 vendors attended the 76th Omaha International Boat Sports and Travel Show in Nebraska over the final week of February. Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau staff were among the vendors greeting the many thousands of visitors at the show. Director Christina Hayes said CBV's goal at the show was to promote the weekend getaway."Numbers were similar to last year," she said. "We had direct contact with about 2,055 people, and 649 of them were kids. What's great about that is we have a partnership with Kansas Wetlands Education Center. We do a little egg activity, so it does keep them at our booth for 3-5 minutes as they do that little activity with us. It does help us create conversations and ways for them to have a fun family getaway."CVB staff chooses the Omaha show each year because the largest city in Nebraska is less than five hours from Great Bend. Visitors at the show are the type that would enjoy the bird-watching, hunting, and outdoor activities that Great Bend and the surrounding area offer. This year, the CVB had even more activities to promote. "One thing that was different this year is that many, many people stopped and we were talking about the Airfest. I truly am excited to see if our online ticket sales from Omaha are higher. We're excited to see what's next, and it's just an overall great annual show for the CVB to represent Great Bend."The Omaha International Boat Sports and Travel Show was held from Feb. 22-25 this year. Other vendors sold hunting gear, resort trips, and marine goods.

Great Bend CVB promotes wetlands, AirFest at Omaha trade show

On March 4 at approximately 11:41 p.m., an officer with the Great Bend Police Department stopped a subject on a bicycle in the 2600 block of 20th Street, as he believed the bicycle to have previously been reported stolen. During the stop, the officer contacted the victim of the stolen bicycle and confirmed the bicycle was stolen.

Charles Bowers, Jr., 40,&nbsp;was placed under arrest for possession of stolen property. While en route to the jail, Bowers, Jr., advised the officer that he had illegal narcotics inside of his backpack. Once at the Barton County Jail, officers located multiple illegal narcotics inside of the backpack. Bowers, Jr.,&nbsp; was placed under arrest for distribution of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked in lieu of a $300,000 bond for the narcotics violation and $5,000 for the possession of stolen property. &nbsp;

If anyone has any information regarding this or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626811979471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On March 4 at approximately 11:41 p.m., an officer with the Great Bend Police Department stopped a subject on a bicycle in the 2600 block of 20th Street, as he believed the bicycle to have previously been reported stolen. During the stop, the officer contacted the victim of the stolen bicycle and confirmed the bicycle was stolen.Charles Bowers, Jr., 40,&nbsp;was placed under arrest for possession of stolen property. While en route to the jail, Bowers, Jr., advised the officer that he had illegal narcotics inside of his backpack. Once at the Barton County Jail, officers located multiple illegal narcotics inside of the backpack. Bowers, Jr.,&nbsp; was placed under arrest for distribution of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked in lieu of a $300,000 bond for the narcotics violation and $5,000 for the possession of stolen property. &nbsp;If anyone has any information regarding this or any other investigation, they are encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at (620) 793-4120 or Great Bend Crime Stoppers at (620) 792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.&nbsp;

Great Bend Police make arrest for stolen bicycle, drugs

The Barton Community College basketball teams play at Colby on Tuesday, March 5.

You can follow all the action by listening on 104.3 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://b1043.net/">HERE</a>.

The women's game in Colby begins at 5:30 p.m. with the men's game at 7:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604702295823.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College basketball teams play at Colby on Tuesday, March 5.You can follow all the action by listening on 104.3 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://b1043.net/">HERE</a>.The women's game in Colby begins at 5:30 p.m. with the men's game at 7:30 p.m.

🎧Listen LIVE: Barton 🏀 at Colby

Last week, I discussed the benefits of outdoor play. Next, I would like to explore ideas and get creative on things to do outside to hopefully spark your own imagination on how to make outside time more appealing to children than electronics. Be a good role model for your children and spend time outside yourself! Sometimes we have to make it a priority for it to happen. Don’t overthink it and it doesn’t always have to be complicated or elaborate.

· Nature Study-take a camera and a notebook-start a nature collection or have a scavenger hunt

· Visit a farm, orchard, botanical garden

· Pick flowers and make May Day baskets (May 1st)

· Fishing, hunting, camping (age appropriate, could be real or make believe)

I hope this encourages you to get outside and enjoy whatever weather we are having right now. I have fond memories of playing football and visiting several parks on a weekend afternoons while

enjoying a snack along the way with my children when they were younger. Now I enjoy taking my dogs for a walk, especially when my husband tags along.

I always admired a neighbor of mine that had young children. I would see them outside in all kinds of weather, different times of the day, for different lengths of time. Sometimes the parents were outside with them doing a structured activity and other times the older kids would be outside on their own. They gardened, walked, rode bikes and scooters, went to the pool, played ball games, among many other activities. This allowed them to spend time together as a family and enjoy the benefits of physical activity as well as the outdoors. I think they also used it as a way to help their children calm down on trying days. By creating a change of scenery, it allowed the child to get out some emotions or pent up energy. What a great idea to help children learn to manage their emotions. What if when we were stressed or upset about something we took a walk or jog to sort out our feelings rather than eating something that was bad for us or going shopping?

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="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Last week, I discussed the benefits of outdoor play. Next, I would like to explore ideas and get creative on things to do outside to hopefully spark your own imagination on how to make outside time more appealing to children than electronics. Be a good role model for your children and spend time outside yourself! Sometimes we have to make it a priority for it to happen. Don’t overthink it and it doesn’t always have to be complicated or elaborate.Ideas for Outside play:· Ball play· Walking/bike/scooter trails· Sand play· Water play· Bubble play· Sidewalk chalk· Nature Study-take a camera and a notebook-start a nature collection or have a scavenger hunt· Parks· Picnics· Read (yes, take books outside)· Gardening· Visit a farm, orchard, botanical garden· Make mud pies· Climb a tree· Pick flowers and make May Day baskets (May 1st)· Biking, scooters, surf, boogey board· Jump rope· Take dog for a walk/play fetch· Fishing, hunting, camping (age appropriate, could be real or make believe)I hope this encourages you to get outside and enjoy whatever weather we are having right now. I have fond memories of playing football and visiting several parks on a weekend afternoons whileenjoying a snack along the way with my children when they were younger. Now I enjoy taking my dogs for a walk, especially when my husband tags along.I always admired a neighbor of mine that had young children. I would see them outside in all kinds of weather, different times of the day, for different lengths of time. Sometimes the parents were outside with them doing a structured activity and other times the older kids would be outside on their own. They gardened, walked, rode bikes and scooters, went to the pool, played ball games, among many other activities. This allowed them to spend time together as a family and enjoy the benefits of physical activity as well as the outdoors. I think they also used it as a way to help their children calm down on trying days. By creating a change of scenery, it allowed the child to get out some emotions or pent up energy. What a great idea to help children learn to manage their emotions. What if when we were stressed or upset about something we took a walk or jog to sort out our feelings rather than eating something that was bad for us or going shopping?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.