Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (2/12)

At 4:48 a.m. an accident was reported at N. US 281 Highway
in Hoisington.

At 12:40 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 592 NE
K-156 Highway.

At 2:06 p.m. a theft was reported at 5548 Oil Center South
Rd.

At 4:24 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 24th
&amp; Main.

At 5:12 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at NW 40
Avenue &amp; NW 80 Road in Hoisington.

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (2/12)

At 8:15 a.m. an accident was reported at 3201 16th
Street.

At 10:49 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2715 18th
Street.

At 12:11 p.m. a car parked in a yard was reported at 10th
&amp; Heizer.

At 1:02 p.m. additional information in reference to a
previous theft was reported at 800 Pine.

At 1:25 p.m. a former employee on scene and wanted him
trespassed was reported at 1560 K-96 Highway.

At 3:55 p.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, reported
Zachary Horyna and Veronica Rodriguez shoplifting items.

At 4:24 p.m. a vehicle passing in a no passing zone was
reported at 24th &amp; Main.

At 6:56 p.m. his neighbor’s dog attacking his dog was
reported at 1219 Lincoln.

At 11:28 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2706 Pheasant Pl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (2/12)Non-Injury AccidentAt 4:48 a.m. an accident was reported at N. US 281 Highway
in Hoisington.Animal ComplaintAt 12:40 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 592 NE
K-156 Highway.TheftAt 2:06 p.m. a theft was reported at 5548 Oil Center South
Rd.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:24 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 24th
&amp; Main.Animal ComplaintAt 5:12 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at NW 40
Avenue &amp; NW 80 Road in Hoisington.Great Bend Police
Department incident log (2/12)Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:15 a.m. an accident was reported at 3201 16th
Street.Traumatic InjuriesAt 10:49 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2715 18th
Street.Parking ComplaintAt 12:11 p.m. a car parked in a yard was reported at 10th
&amp; Heizer.TheftAt 1:02 p.m. additional information in reference to a
previous theft was reported at 800 Pine.Trespassing / CriminalAt 1:25 p.m. a former employee on scene and wanted him
trespassed was reported at 1560 K-96 Highway.TheftAt 3:55 p.m. Walmart, 3503 10th Street, reported
Zachary Horyna and Veronica Rodriguez shoplifting items.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:24 p.m. a vehicle passing in a no passing zone was
reported at 24th &amp; Main.Animal ComplaintAt 6:56 p.m. his neighbor’s dog attacking his dog was
reported at 1219 Lincoln.Hemorrhage / Lacerations At 11:28 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 2706 Pheasant Pl.

Cop Shop (2/12)

The Great Bend USD 428 Board of Education approved the appointment of Brock Funke as the next Principal of Great Bend High School at their monthly meeting Monday evening. His position will be effective Aug. 1, 2024, after the retirement of current GBHS Principal Tim Friess.

A graduate of Fort Hays State University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Education ESOL &amp; Curriculum from Newman University, Funke brings extensive experience and training to his new role. His professional journey began at Park Elementary School in Great Bend in 2011 as a Teacher/ Instructional Coach, before returning to his hometown of Washington, Kan.&nbsp;in 2019 to serve as a secondary Social Studies Teacher and Junior High/High School Building Principal since 2020.

Known for his motto, "Every student. Every day. Whatever it takes.," Funke is committed to the success and well-being of each student. USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton expressed confidence in Funke's leadership capabilities, stating, "We are fortunate to have Mr. Funke return to our district. His determination, work ethic, and strong connection with students make him an ideal candidate for this role at GBHS. We believe he will continue to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment at GBHS where students can thrive."

Excited about the opportunity to return to Great Bend, Funke said, "Great Bend gave me every opportunity to grow not only as an educator but as a person. It is a very special place, and I'm excited to call it 'home' once again."

The community is invited to join USD 428 and Great Bend High School in welcoming&nbsp;Funke as the next Principal of Great Bend High School.

For questions, please contact the USD 428 District Education Center at 620-793-1500. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707833318848.jpeg" alt="Brock Funke, a former teacher at Park Elementary School in Great Bend, has been named the new principal at Great Bend High School effective Aug. 1, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Brock Funke, a former teacher at Park Elementary School in Great Bend, has been named the new principal at Great Bend High School effective Aug. 1, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend USD 428 Board of Education approved the appointment of Brock Funke as the next Principal of Great Bend High School at their monthly meeting Monday evening. His position will be effective Aug. 1, 2024, after the retirement of current GBHS Principal Tim Friess.A graduate of Fort Hays State University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Education ESOL &amp; Curriculum from Newman University, Funke brings extensive experience and training to his new role. His professional journey began at Park Elementary School in Great Bend in 2011 as a Teacher/ Instructional Coach, before returning to his hometown of Washington, Kan.&nbsp;in 2019 to serve as a secondary Social Studies Teacher and Junior High/High School Building Principal since 2020.Known for his motto, "Every student. Every day. Whatever it takes.," Funke is committed to the success and well-being of each student. USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton expressed confidence in Funke's leadership capabilities, stating, "We are fortunate to have Mr. Funke return to our district. His determination, work ethic, and strong connection with students make him an ideal candidate for this role at GBHS. We believe he will continue to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment at GBHS where students can thrive."Excited about the opportunity to return to Great Bend, Funke said, "Great Bend gave me every opportunity to grow not only as an educator but as a person. It is a very special place, and I'm excited to call it 'home' once again."The community is invited to join USD 428 and Great Bend High School in welcoming&nbsp;Funke as the next Principal of Great Bend High School.For questions, please contact the USD 428 District Education Center at 620-793-1500.

Funke named next principal at Great Bend High School

2/12 BOOKED: Tabitha Greathouse on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Tara Amador on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.&nbsp;

BOOKED: Johnathan Sucko on Ellsworth County District Court case for Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, and Improper Crossover on Divided Highway, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

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

RELEASED: Tiffany Burt on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Battery DV, after serving 18 hours.

RELEASED: D'Juan Jones on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Operating a Motor Vehicle Without a Valid License, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Christopher Thompson on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.

RELEASED: Leonard Boese on Barton County District Court warrants after posting total $12,250 surety bonds through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>2/12 BOOKED: Tabitha Greathouse on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Tara Amador on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.&nbsp;BOOKED: Johnathan Sucko on Ellsworth County District Court case for Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Suspended, and Improper Crossover on Divided Highway, bond set at $50,000 C/S.RELEASED: Tabitha Greathouse on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Tiffany Burt on Hoisington Municipal Court case for Battery DV, after serving 18 hours.RELEASED: D'Juan Jones on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana and Operating a Motor Vehicle Without a Valid License, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Christopher Thompson on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, by order of the court.RELEASED: Leonard Boese on Barton County District Court warrants after posting total $12,250 surety bonds through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (2/12)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The Great Bend Recreation Commission introduced a few playground
additions coming to the community in the near future, including equipment at
the Great Bend Sports Complex, Veterans Memorial Park and the GBRC Activity
Center. 

Great Bend Rec Director Chris Umphres said the My Backyard Playground
at the Activity Center on 18th Street has sections designated for
toddlers and children 5-12 years old. At Monday's meeting, the Rec Board approved the purchase
of a Ninja Course and rock-climbing wall to be installed.


"Sitting through the city's quality of life sales tax committee, and some of the comments that we've heard is there is nothing to do for the middle-aged group," said Umphres. "I think we have a good situation with security cameras, staff, basketball goal and lots of things to do. This will be geared more for the middle school and older group."

The Ninja Course, costing $115,000, resembles playground equipment seen on the
television show, American Ninja Warrior. The rock wall, costing $164,000, will
be 50 feet long, eight feet tall and include three boulders. Umphres said there are two options for a padded surfacing underneath, and a Hellas
Construction surfacing quote for $192,000 will place turf around the area and
install the Ninja Course.


"I would be happy with either of the two companies to do the install," said Umphres. "We've had Hellas in town doing the high school football field and the Sports Complex. We've had very good luck with their customer service and the products they have."

Umphres noted Hellas has availability to have the equipment installed sometime
in May.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707805503772.jpeg" alt="Rendering of the Ninja Course to be installed at the Great Bend Activity Center's My Backyard Playground on 18th Street." />
 <figcaption>Rendering of the Ninja Course to be installed at the Great Bend Activity Center's My Backyard Playground on 18th Street.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Recreation Commission introduced a few playground
additions coming to the community in the near future, including equipment at
the Great Bend Sports Complex, Veterans Memorial Park and the GBRC Activity
Center. Great Bend Rec Director Chris Umphres said the My Backyard Playground
at the Activity Center on 18th Street has sections designated for
toddlers and children 5-12 years old. At Monday's meeting, the Rec Board approved the purchase
of a Ninja Course and rock-climbing wall to be installed.
"Sitting through the city's quality of life sales tax committee, and some of the comments that we've heard is there is nothing to do for the middle-aged group," said Umphres. "I think we have a good situation with security cameras, staff, basketball goal and lots of things to do. This will be geared more for the middle school and older group."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707807079954.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Ninja Course, costing $115,000, resembles playground equipment seen on the
television show, American Ninja Warrior. The rock wall, costing $164,000, will
be 50 feet long, eight feet tall and include three boulders. Umphres said there are two options for a padded surfacing underneath, and a Hellas
Construction surfacing quote for $192,000 will place turf around the area and
install the Ninja Course.
"I would be happy with either of the two companies to do the install," said Umphres. "We've had Hellas in town doing the high school football field and the Sports Complex. We've had very good luck with their customer service and the products they have."Umphres noted Hellas has availability to have the equipment installed sometime
in May.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707807259592.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ninja Course, rock wall coming to Great Bend playground

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The COVID pandemic threw many things off kilter. One of those things was the trip schedule for Great Bend High School orchestra students. Last year, the USD 428 Board of Education approved a small trip to Colorado. Getting back on schedule for larger trips, 6-12 Orchestra Instructor Aubrey Maneth asked the board Monday evening for approval of a New York City trip at the end of the 2024-25 school year.

"We asked them where do you want to go? What do you want to experience?," Maneth said. "Several have never been on a plane before. Several have never seen a symphony. Some of them have never seen any sort of Broadway experience, opera experience, or anything on a huge musical scale they've never experienced before."

Day one of the trip will include a flight from Wichita or Kansas City to New York City where students will eat dinner and explore Times Square. Day two will include a personal one-hour Broadway workshop from a performer to be seen in a show later, and a Broadway Show or performance at the Metropolitan Opera House. Day three includes stops at the Museum of Broadway and the Museum of Natural History. That day will conclude with dinner at Gayle's Broadway Rose where aspiring performers serve as singing waitresses, and a performance from the New York Philharmonic. Day four will be a cultural one with stops at the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. The students will return home on day five.

"It's super inspiring just to go out and watch people perform," said 6-12 Orchestra Instructor Erica Pinkston. "These are people that do the things those kids are doing right now. We all start somewhere, and these kids are starting somewhere. This kind of gives them that kick of, 'If I really put my mind to it, I can probably do something like this.' It doesn't matter where you are but it matters where you're going."

The board voted unanimously to approve the trip, which will cost each student approximately $2,200. Several fundraisers are already in the works. There are now approximately 45 orchestra students, and Maneth said approximately 80 percent have expressed interest in making the trip, which will take place the week after the final day of school in May. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707789666177.jpeg" alt="Grades 6-12 Orchestra Instructors Aubrey Maneth (left) and Erica Pinkston gained approval from the USD 428 Board of Education for a trip to New York City at the close of the 2024-25 school year." />
 <figcaption>Grades 6-12 Orchestra Instructors Aubrey Maneth (left) and Erica Pinkston gained approval from the USD 428 Board of Education for a trip to New York City at the close of the 2024-25 school year.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe COVID pandemic threw many things off kilter. One of those things was the trip schedule for Great Bend High School orchestra students. Last year, the USD 428 Board of Education approved a small trip to Colorado. Getting back on schedule for larger trips, 6-12 Orchestra Instructor Aubrey Maneth asked the board Monday evening for approval of a New York City trip at the end of the 2024-25 school year."We asked them where do you want to go? What do you want to experience?," Maneth said. "Several have never been on a plane before. Several have never seen a symphony. Some of them have never seen any sort of Broadway experience, opera experience, or anything on a huge musical scale they've never experienced before."Day one of the trip will include a flight from Wichita or Kansas City to New York City where students will eat dinner and explore Times Square. Day two will include a personal one-hour Broadway workshop from a performer to be seen in a show later, and a Broadway Show or performance at the Metropolitan Opera House. Day three includes stops at the Museum of Broadway and the Museum of Natural History. That day will conclude with dinner at Gayle's Broadway Rose where aspiring performers serve as singing waitresses, and a performance from the New York Philharmonic. Day four will be a cultural one with stops at the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. The students will return home on day five."It's super inspiring just to go out and watch people perform," said 6-12 Orchestra Instructor Erica Pinkston. "These are people that do the things those kids are doing right now. We all start somewhere, and these kids are starting somewhere. This kind of gives them that kick of, 'If I really put my mind to it, I can probably do something like this.' It doesn't matter where you are but it matters where you're going."The board voted unanimously to approve the trip, which will cost each student approximately $2,200. Several fundraisers are already in the works. There are now approximately 45 orchestra students, and Maneth said approximately 80 percent have expressed interest in making the trip, which will take place the week after the final day of school in May.

USD 428 BOE approves NYC trip for Great Bend High orchestra students

The Commission meeting will be live streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Es6yRE. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting Feb. 13 9 a.m. until close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the January 30, 2024, and the February 6, 2024, Regular Meetings. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: Third 13th Month: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period ending December 31, 2023. This is considered the third “13th Month” for 2023 expenditures.

III. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Ms. Schmeidler will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of January 30, 2024, and ending February 13, 2024.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. JOINT MEETING WITH THE CITY OF CLAFLIN OFFICIALS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Commissioner Duane Reif will provide details. The Commission met jointly with the City of Claflin City Council on Monday, February 12, 2024.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. INVENTORY OF COUNTY PROPERTY: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Schmeidler; Chris Saenz, Equipment Technician; and Dereck Hollingshead, Information Technology Director, will provide details. Per KSA 19-2687, each County officer and head of a department shall make an inventory of the personal property owned by the County and located in such office or department. The inventory, which shall be taken during the month of December of each year, shall be filed with the County Clerk on or before December 31 of each year. The inventory shall not include books, records, files, stationery, writing materials and blank legal papers. The information will be presented to the Commission during February of each year. Per Resolution 2005-22, the mandated duties have been assigned to the Information Technology Department.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. USDA-DLT B 2023 Grant: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Hollingshead will be joined by Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, and Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, to present details. Barton County has been awarded a 2023 grant from the US Department of Agriculture for Distance Learning and Telemedicine. This is similar to the grant the County received from the USDA in 2020. The 2023 USDA B grant totals $185,745. Barton County will be required to pay a match totaling $28,730. This rural development investment will help to establish distance learning programs that connect vulnerable populations across rural counties to vital services not in their communities.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. ROAD AND BRIDGE: Rebuild of Storage Shed: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Darren Williams, County Works Director, will present details. One of the south storage buildings at Road and Bridge was damaged in the July, 2023, hail and windstorm. It is suggested that the building be demolished by Road and Bridge staff and that a new&nbsp;building be constructed on site. After accepting bids, Steel Builders Construction, Inc. presented the low bid of $316,420.00 for a 50’x180’x16’ eave height Behlen All Steel Building. Road and Bridge has sufficient monies for the construction, although a Resolution transfer from Equipment Replacement to Capital Improvement would be necessary.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. RESOLUTION 2024-07: A Resolution Transferring Unexpended Funds from Equipment Replacement to Capital Improvement for a Road and Bridge Shed Replacement Project: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. Should the Commission approve the rebuild of the storm-damaged shed at Road and Bridge, monies will need to be transferred, via Resolution, from the Equipment Replacement Fund to the Capital Improvement Fund. The proposed Resolution authorizes the transfer of the full project amount, $316,420.00.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials, individually or in groups, may visit the Courthouse or those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. With the Courthouse located at 1400 Main, other buildings being used for housing are 1520 Main and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barton County Office Buildings will be closed Monday, February 19, 2024, in observance of Presidents Day. The Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office, the Health Department and the Landfill will also be closed. Emergency services will be in normal operation.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Program Update – Sara Arnberger, Executive Director, Great Bend Economic Development.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Program Update – Veronica Coons, Barton County Conservation District Manager.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. – Grant updates – Karen Winkelman, Public Health Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Medicaid Expansion Resolution Discussion –Commission discussion.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Health Department are scheduled for February 15, 2024.

VII. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 20, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693230488223.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3Es6yRE. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting Feb. 13 9 a.m. until closeI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the January 30, 2024, and the February 6, 2024, Regular Meetings. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: Third 13th Month: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period ending December 31, 2023. This is considered the third “13th Month” for 2023 expenditures.III. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Ms. Schmeidler will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of January 30, 2024, and ending February 13, 2024.IV. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.V. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. JOINT MEETING WITH THE CITY OF CLAFLIN OFFICIALS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Commissioner Duane Reif will provide details. The Commission met jointly with the City of Claflin City Council on Monday, February 12, 2024.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. INVENTORY OF COUNTY PROPERTY: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Ms. Schmeidler; Chris Saenz, Equipment Technician; and Dereck Hollingshead, Information Technology Director, will provide details. Per KSA 19-2687, each County officer and head of a department shall make an inventory of the personal property owned by the County and located in such office or department. The inventory, which shall be taken during the month of December of each year, shall be filed with the County Clerk on or before December 31 of each year. The inventory shall not include books, records, files, stationery, writing materials and blank legal papers. The information will be presented to the Commission during February of each year. Per Resolution 2005-22, the mandated duties have been assigned to the Information Technology Department.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. USDA-DLT B 2023 Grant: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Hollingshead will be joined by Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director, and Patrick Hoffman, County Counselor, to present details. Barton County has been awarded a 2023 grant from the US Department of Agriculture for Distance Learning and Telemedicine. This is similar to the grant the County received from the USDA in 2020. The 2023 USDA B grant totals $185,745. Barton County will be required to pay a match totaling $28,730. This rural development investment will help to establish distance learning programs that connect vulnerable populations across rural counties to vital services not in their communities.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. ROAD AND BRIDGE: Rebuild of Storage Shed: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Darren Williams, County Works Director, will present details. One of the south storage buildings at Road and Bridge was damaged in the July, 2023, hail and windstorm. It is suggested that the building be demolished by Road and Bridge staff and that a new&nbsp;building be constructed on site. After accepting bids, Steel Builders Construction, Inc. presented the low bid of $316,420.00 for a 50’x180’x16’ eave height Behlen All Steel Building. Road and Bridge has sufficient monies for the construction, although a Resolution transfer from Equipment Replacement to Capital Improvement would be necessary.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. RESOLUTION 2024-07: A Resolution Transferring Unexpended Funds from Equipment Replacement to Capital Improvement for a Road and Bridge Shed Replacement Project: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Matt Patzner, County Administrator, will provide details. Should the Commission approve the rebuild of the storm-damaged shed at Road and Bridge, monies will need to be transferred, via Resolution, from the Equipment Replacement Fund to the Capital Improvement Fund. The proposed Resolution authorizes the transfer of the full project amount, $316,420.00.&nbsp; &nbsp;F. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Barb Esfeld will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.VI. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials, individually or in groups, may visit the Courthouse or those buildings being used for displaced Courthouse offices during the HVAC improvement project. With the Courthouse located at 1400 Main, other buildings being used for housing are 1520 Main and 1709 Main, Great Bend, Kansas. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barton County Office Buildings will be closed Monday, February 19, 2024, in observance of Presidents Day. The Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office, the Health Department and the Landfill will also be closed. Emergency services will be in normal operation.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Program Update – Sara Arnberger, Executive Director, Great Bend Economic Development.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Program Update – Veronica Coons, Barton County Conservation District Manager.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:30 a.m. – Grant updates – Karen Winkelman, Public Health Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Medicaid Expansion Resolution Discussion –Commission discussion.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Health Department are scheduled for February 15, 2024.VII. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 20, 2024.VIII. ADJOURN.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (2/13)

Last week’s approval of the consent agenda during the Great Bend City
Council meeting included an addition to the city’s finance team and the old
police building remodel.


Earlier this year, City Administrator Brandon Anderson noted through his first
few months on the job he noticed the finance department could use
assistance. The department consists of City Clerk Shawna Schafer and Deputy
City Clerk Alison Urban. Great Bend will shift allocated general fund dollars
from a vacant position to fund the new position of Accounts Payable Clerk.


With the Great Bend Police Department moving over to the new $9 million Justice
Center, the council approved a $39,316 remodel to the old station to be used
for office space. The majority of the expense will be used for new flooring.
The remodel will allow the inspections, public lands and property maintenance
departments additional office space.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/9d387cee-115b-4ee0-820d-93878b4f578e">RELATED STORY: Great Bend to turn vacant police station into office space</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657285910889.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend PostLast week’s approval of the consent agenda during the Great Bend City
Council meeting included an addition to the city’s finance team and the old
police building remodel.
Earlier this year, City Administrator Brandon Anderson noted through his first
few months on the job he noticed the finance department could use
assistance. The department consists of City Clerk Shawna Schafer and Deputy
City Clerk Alison Urban. Great Bend will shift allocated general fund dollars
from a vacant position to fund the new position of Accounts Payable Clerk.
With the Great Bend Police Department moving over to the new $9 million Justice
Center, the council approved a $39,316 remodel to the old station to be used
for office space. The majority of the expense will be used for new flooring.
The remodel will allow the inspections, public lands and property maintenance
departments additional office space.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/9d387cee-115b-4ee0-820d-93878b4f578e">RELATED STORY: Great Bend to turn vacant police station into office space</a>

Great Bend approves additional position for finance department

Our bodies are made for activity, but modern conveniences allow us to be increasingly sedentary. This can place our health at risk for many chronic diseases. Still, regular exercise contributes to longevity, reduces the risk of falling, increases flexibility, promotes restful sleep, and improves mood and mental health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults participate in aerobic activities like walking each week and incorporate strengthening exercises for all major muscle groups at least twice a week.

The good news is that the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program at the Great Bend Activity Center is a class that can help you achieve enough physical activity and reap the benefits of regular movement!

In a typical Stay Strong, Stay Healthy class, participants will complete a low-impact warm-up, eight upper- and lower-body strengthening exercises, and cool-down stretches. They will also learn about nutrition topics specific to older adults.

The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program is built on simple exercises that will improve strength, balance, health, and state of mind. Building strength promotes quality of life and independence, especially for adults over 60. The program is designed for simplicity; each participant will start at their own level and be encouraged to progress gradually.

The class will meet for one hour, two times each week on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning on March 12th. To register, call the Cottonwood Extension office at 620-793-1910 and schedule your orientation session by February 19th. The fee is for the eight-week series is $20.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Our bodies are made for activity, but modern conveniences allow us to be increasingly sedentary. This can place our health at risk for many chronic diseases. Still, regular exercise contributes to longevity, reduces the risk of falling, increases flexibility, promotes restful sleep, and improves mood and mental health.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults participate in aerobic activities like walking each week and incorporate strengthening exercises for all major muscle groups at least twice a week.The good news is that the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program at the Great Bend Activity Center is a class that can help you achieve enough physical activity and reap the benefits of regular movement!In a typical Stay Strong, Stay Healthy class, participants will complete a low-impact warm-up, eight upper- and lower-body strengthening exercises, and cool-down stretches. They will also learn about nutrition topics specific to older adults.The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program is built on simple exercises that will improve strength, balance, health, and state of mind. Building strength promotes quality of life and independence, especially for adults over 60. The program is designed for simplicity; each participant will start at their own level and be encouraged to progress gradually.The class will meet for one hour, two times each week on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning on March 12th. To register, call the Cottonwood Extension office at 620-793-1910 and schedule your orientation session by February 19th. The fee is for the eight-week series is $20.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Stay strong, stay healthy

From Great Bend High School forensics coach Kim Heath...

The Great Bend High School Forensics Team has brought home team sweepstake trophies and many individual medals from each of their four opening tournaments. There are 31 students competing for the Panthers. They can select from twelve different individual speaking, interpretation, debate and acting events to prepare for competition.

In the opening weeks of the season, seven GBHS students have already qualified for the 5A KSHSAA tournament in May in 11 different events. In order to qualify for the state tournament, a student must finish in the top two at an invitational tournament.

Forensics coach, Kim Heath, said, “I am immensely proud of each participant's dedication, hard work, and leadership throughout the early tournaments. They have all been working hard to prepare. I am looking forward to a great season.”

Kinsley -- 1st Place The Great Bend High School Forensics Team won the Kinsley Forensics Tournament during the opening weekend of the season. The competition, held on January 27th, brought together talented actors and speakers from the local area.

Reese King, a Junior, won 1st place in Informative Speaking and 2nd place in Oration. Another Junior, Darcy Feist claimed 1st place in both Oration and Impromptu Speaking. Additionally, Feist and King stepped out of their comfort zone and tried their hand at acting, securing 5th place in Improvised Duet Acting.

Juniors, Analeah Ochs and Dixie Gallant competed in Duet Acting, earning 3rd place together. Ochs also earned a 6th place finish in Poetry. Jordan Sander won 1st place in Humorous Solo at his first forensics tournament ever. Sander also secured 6th place in Oration, demonstrating versatility in both speaking and acting.

Sophomore, Rhys Froetschner claimed 3rd place medals in both Informative and Impromptu, along with a 4th place finish in Oration. Froetschner's consistent performance across diverse speaking categories underscore his continued growth. Quinton Heath won Serious Solo and placed 4th place in Poetry and 6th in Impromptu Speaking

Freshmen Parker Coleman and Hunter McClanahan earned 4th place and 5th place medals in Informative, while Sophomore Kaitlyn Froetschner had a 5th place finish in Oration.

Newton -- 2nd Place During the second weekend of the season, the Panthers demonstrated excellence and skill at the Newton Forensics Tournament, held on February 3rd. They brought home the 2nd place trophy falling just behind Buhler. Last year, the Panthers also finished in second place to Buhler.

Chrisangel Adame, Senior, claimed 1st place in the Prose category, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences with compelling storytelling. Adame also secured 4th place in Duo Interpretation with partner Ellie Damm.

Another Senior, Milena Carbajal, won 1st place in Dramatic Interpretation, 2nd place in Poetry, and 3rd place in Program Oral Interpretation (POI). Carbajal's consistent success across multiple categories showcases her versatility and dedication.

Anna Bitter took first place in POI, 4th place in Humorous Interpretation, and 5th place in Informative. Bitter’s diversity reflects her well-rounded skills as a forensics competitor. Quinton Heath, placed 5th in both the Serious Solo and Poetry.

Medicine Lodge -- 5th Place A group of junior varsity and novice forensicators traveled to Medicine Lodge for a two-round evening tournament on February 8. The small squad returned home with a 5th place sweepstakes trophy from the 20-school field.

The team was led by Rhys Froestschner who placed 2nd in extemporaneous speaking and 3rd in informative speaking. Parker Coleman placed 5th in informative, and Dominik Zimmerman placed 6th in extemp.

On the acting side, Zimmerman and Kyra Lewis took home 4th place medals in duet.

Wichita Southeast -- 3rd Place On Saturday, February 10, the Varsity Panther Forensics Team won 3rd place sweepstakes in a very large tournament at Wichita Southeast. Andover High School won first and Jenks, Oklahoma, placed second. Breaking into the top six took exceptional talent because some events had more than 60 entries.

Darcy Feist led the Panthers by placing 1st in POI and 2nd in Oration. Bitter won 3rd place in Humorous Interpretation

In Informative speaking, Reese King placed 5th and Chrisangel Adame was 6th. Adame and Ellie Damm finished in 6th place in Duet Acting, and Damm was also 6th in Dramatic Interpretation.

Looking Forward Several members of the Forensics team will be performing on stage next weekend. The Great Bend High School Theatre will present “The Play That Goes Wrong” on February 16th and 17th at 7 PM, and February 18th at 2 PM. The cast and crew invite the community to come out for tons of laughs.

The Great Bend High School Forensics Team will be hosting over 20 schools of all sizes on Saturday, February 24th. The team is currently looking for judges for their tournament. If you would like to help judge, please contact Kim Heath at the high school or by emailing kim.heath@usd428.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707764985261.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Great Bend High School forensics coach Kim Heath...The Great Bend High School Forensics Team has brought home team sweepstake trophies and many individual medals from each of their four opening tournaments. There are 31 students competing for the Panthers. They can select from twelve different individual speaking, interpretation, debate and acting events to prepare for competition.In the opening weeks of the season, seven GBHS students have already qualified for the 5A KSHSAA tournament in May in 11 different events. In order to qualify for the state tournament, a student must finish in the top two at an invitational tournament.Forensics coach, Kim Heath, said, “I am immensely proud of each participant's dedication, hard work, and leadership throughout the early tournaments. They have all been working hard to prepare. I am looking forward to a great season.”Kinsley -- 1st Place The Great Bend High School Forensics Team won the Kinsley Forensics Tournament during the opening weekend of the season. The competition, held on January 27th, brought together talented actors and speakers from the local area.Reese King, a Junior, won 1st place in Informative Speaking and 2nd place in Oration. Another Junior, Darcy Feist claimed 1st place in both Oration and Impromptu Speaking. Additionally, Feist and King stepped out of their comfort zone and tried their hand at acting, securing 5th place in Improvised Duet Acting.Juniors, Analeah Ochs and Dixie Gallant competed in Duet Acting, earning 3rd place together. Ochs also earned a 6th place finish in Poetry. Jordan Sander won 1st place in Humorous Solo at his first forensics tournament ever. Sander also secured 6th place in Oration, demonstrating versatility in both speaking and acting.Sophomore, Rhys Froetschner claimed 3rd place medals in both Informative and Impromptu, along with a 4th place finish in Oration. Froetschner's consistent performance across diverse speaking categories underscore his continued growth. Quinton Heath won Serious Solo and placed 4th place in Poetry and 6th in Impromptu SpeakingFreshmen Parker Coleman and Hunter McClanahan earned 4th place and 5th place medals in Informative, while Sophomore Kaitlyn Froetschner had a 5th place finish in Oration.Newton -- 2nd Place During the second weekend of the season, the Panthers demonstrated excellence and skill at the Newton Forensics Tournament, held on February 3rd. They brought home the 2nd place trophy falling just behind Buhler. Last year, the Panthers also finished in second place to Buhler.Chrisangel Adame, Senior, claimed 1st place in the Prose category, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences with compelling storytelling. Adame also secured 4th place in Duo Interpretation with partner Ellie Damm.Another Senior, Milena Carbajal, won 1st place in Dramatic Interpretation, 2nd place in Poetry, and 3rd place in Program Oral Interpretation (POI). Carbajal's consistent success across multiple categories showcases her versatility and dedication.Anna Bitter took first place in POI, 4th place in Humorous Interpretation, and 5th place in Informative. Bitter’s diversity reflects her well-rounded skills as a forensics competitor. Quinton Heath, placed 5th in both the Serious Solo and Poetry.Medicine Lodge -- 5th Place A group of junior varsity and novice forensicators traveled to Medicine Lodge for a two-round evening tournament on February 8. The small squad returned home with a 5th place sweepstakes trophy from the 20-school field.The team was led by Rhys Froestschner who placed 2nd in extemporaneous speaking and 3rd in informative speaking. Parker Coleman placed 5th in informative, and Dominik Zimmerman placed 6th in extemp.On the acting side, Zimmerman and Kyra Lewis took home 4th place medals in duet.Wichita Southeast -- 3rd Place On Saturday, February 10, the Varsity Panther Forensics Team won 3rd place sweepstakes in a very large tournament at Wichita Southeast. Andover High School won first and Jenks, Oklahoma, placed second. Breaking into the top six took exceptional talent because some events had more than 60 entries.Darcy Feist led the Panthers by placing 1st in POI and 2nd in Oration. Bitter won 3rd place in Humorous InterpretationIn Informative speaking, Reese King placed 5th and Chrisangel Adame was 6th. Adame and Ellie Damm finished in 6th place in Duet Acting, and Damm was also 6th in Dramatic Interpretation.Looking Forward Several members of the Forensics team will be performing on stage next weekend. The Great Bend High School Theatre will present “The Play That Goes Wrong” on February 16th and 17th at 7 PM, and February 18th at 2 PM. The cast and crew invite the community to come out for tons of laughs.The Great Bend High School Forensics Team will be hosting over 20 schools of all sizes on Saturday, February 24th. The team is currently looking for judges for their tournament. If you would like to help judge, please contact Kim Heath at the high school or by emailing kim.heath@usd428.net.

Great Bend High School forensics off to winning start

USD 428 Board of Education meeting Feb. 12 - 5 p.m. District Education Center, 201 S. Patton Road, Great Bend

1. CALL TO ORDER &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Roll Call &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.3 Recognition of Visitors &nbsp; &nbsp;1.4 Request to Speak Reminder &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent on citizen participation. &nbsp; &nbsp;1.5 Citizen’s Open Forum

2. RECOGNITIONS / PRESENTATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• GBHS Theatre students attended the Kansas Thespian Conference in Wichita on January 5-7. GBHS Students who placed in the competition will share results regarding awards from the conference. GBHS Thespian sponsors are Mrs. Megan McGuire and Mrs. Holly Johnson. &nbsp; &nbsp;• GBHS Orchestra Director Aubrey Maneth will present a proposal for a GBHS Orchestra student trip in May of 2025. Details will be provided, and approval for the trip will be requested.

3. COMMUNICATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• Board Member Comments &nbsp; &nbsp;• USD 428 Education Foundation &nbsp; &nbsp;• Written Communications / Correspondence

5. NEW BUSINESS &nbsp; &nbsp;A. First Reading of K-6 ELA &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The 7-12 math curriculum committee will present their selections to pilot for the adoption of elementary English Language resources. This is a First Reading. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. First Reading of GBMS Program of Studies &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The GB Middle School Program of Studies book describes all the courses available to Great Bend Middle School students. GBMS Principal Mr. Myron Ellegood will discuss several course description updates, wording, and curriculum changes previously approved by the Curriculum Steering Committee. The administration will request board approval at the March meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Approval to Request 2024-2025 E-Rate Funding &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Administration requests BOE approval for 2024-2025 E-rate funding requests.&nbsp;E-Rate funds do not pay for cellular, local, and long-distance phone charges.

6. CURRICULUM REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. State Assessments in USD 428 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; State Assessments in Kansas are a rigorous assessment of what students have learned and used to predict college readiness and are comparable to the ACT. State Assessments begin in late March and continue into April. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. KESA Information/Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Kansas Education Systems Accreditation (KESA) is changed from past years. The changing process will be described. The District Leadership team will study district data, review current processes, and develop current and future improvement steps. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. K-12 Science Adoption Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The K-12 Curriculum adoption is proceeding, and the suggested science pilot resources will be presented at a subsequent meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Preschool and Kindergarten Pre-Enrollment Information Fair USD 428 will host a come-and-go Pre-Enrollment Information Fair for parents/guardians of incoming preschool &amp; kindergarten on Wednesday, April 10, from 1-6:30 p.m. at the Great Bend Events Center. The event connects families with information about USD 428 Preschool and Kindergarten programs and other community resources that serve young learners. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Summer Professional Development &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Mrs. Blevins has worked with the coaches to design and offer a wide variety of summer courses for teachers, most of which earn college credits for professional development. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Curriculum Meeting Minutes &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Curriculum Steering Committee: minutes 1/9/24, next meeting 3/5/24 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Professional Development Council (PDC), 1/8 and 2/5/24 minutes, next meeting 3/4/24

7. BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. District Safety Committee Updates &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The district safety committee continues to meet. The current focus is on developing an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). While the district currently has emergency plans, this will be a more complete and all-encompassing emergency plan. Future meetings will include tabletop activities with local emergency management to test the EOP in real-life situations. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. FEMA Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; FEMA government officials will be onsite at USD 428 on February 21 to view four uncompleted roof projects from hail and wind damage during the 7/16/23 storm. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. District Property and Casualty Insurance Update &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Project Updates &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ 1809 24th, 1721 24th, 1725 24th &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ District Phone system &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ District Camera system

8. SUPERINTENDENT REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Legislative Update &nbsp; &nbsp;B. USD 428 Education Foundation Mini-grants &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Parent-Teacher Conference Dates: February 22 and 23, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Approval of Grants / Contributions

10. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes (January 8 and 25, 2024)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Acceptance of Bills and Financial Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Personnel Report

11. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board of Education will go into executive session. “Madam President, I move that the board go into executive session to discuss an individual employee’s performance pursuant to non-elected personnel exception under KOMA. The open meeting will resume in this room at ___:___P.M.”

12. UPCOMING DATES &nbsp; &nbsp;• No School: Friday, February 23 is a NO SCHOOL day, and an early dismissal February 22. &nbsp; &nbsp;• BOE Luncheon Meeting: February 27, 2024, Park Elementary School &nbsp; &nbsp;• BOE Regular Meeting: The next BOE regular monthly meeting is scheduled for March 4, 2024, at the District Education Center. (one week earlier due to Spring Break) &nbsp; &nbsp;• No School on Friday, March 8, for Teacher Grading/Collaboration. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Spring Break: USD 428 will observe Spring Break March 11-15, 2024. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Board Work Session: 5:00 p.m., on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the District Education Center. &nbsp; &nbsp;• IBB Negotiation Meeting: 8:00 a.m., on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at the District Education Center.

USD 428 Board of Education meeting Feb. 12 - 5 p.m. District Education Center, 201 S. Patton Road, Great BendAgenda1. CALL TO ORDER &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Roll Call &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.3 Recognition of Visitors &nbsp; &nbsp;1.4 Request to Speak Reminder &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Persons may present ideas or concerns regarding USD 428. The Board will take no action at this meeting. Such items will be referred to the appropriate administrator(s) for future information and researched and reported back to the Board at a later meeting. Personalities and behavior of employees are not to be presented during this period but are to be reported to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The president shall determine the amount of time to be spent on citizen participation. &nbsp; &nbsp;1.5 Citizen’s Open Forum2. RECOGNITIONS / PRESENTATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• GBHS Theatre students attended the Kansas Thespian Conference in Wichita on January 5-7. GBHS Students who placed in the competition will share results regarding awards from the conference. GBHS Thespian sponsors are Mrs. Megan McGuire and Mrs. Holly Johnson. &nbsp; &nbsp;• GBHS Orchestra Director Aubrey Maneth will present a proposal for a GBHS Orchestra student trip in May of 2025. Details will be provided, and approval for the trip will be requested.3. COMMUNICATIONS &nbsp; &nbsp;• Board Member Comments &nbsp; &nbsp;• USD 428 Education Foundation &nbsp; &nbsp;• Written Communications / Correspondence4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS5. NEW BUSINESS &nbsp; &nbsp;A. First Reading of K-6 ELA &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The 7-12 math curriculum committee will present their selections to pilot for the adoption of elementary English Language resources. This is a First Reading. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. First Reading of GBMS Program of Studies &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The GB Middle School Program of Studies book describes all the courses available to Great Bend Middle School students. GBMS Principal Mr. Myron Ellegood will discuss several course description updates, wording, and curriculum changes previously approved by the Curriculum Steering Committee. The administration will request board approval at the March meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Approval to Request 2024-2025 E-Rate Funding &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Administration requests BOE approval for 2024-2025 E-rate funding requests.&nbsp;E-Rate funds do not pay for cellular, local, and long-distance phone charges.6. CURRICULUM REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. State Assessments in USD 428 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; State Assessments in Kansas are a rigorous assessment of what students have learned and used to predict college readiness and are comparable to the ACT. State Assessments begin in late March and continue into April. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. KESA Information/Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Kansas Education Systems Accreditation (KESA) is changed from past years. The changing process will be described. The District Leadership team will study district data, review current processes, and develop current and future improvement steps. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. K-12 Science Adoption Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The K-12 Curriculum adoption is proceeding, and the suggested science pilot resources will be presented at a subsequent meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Preschool and Kindergarten Pre-Enrollment Information Fair USD 428 will host a come-and-go Pre-Enrollment Information Fair for parents/guardians of incoming preschool &amp; kindergarten on Wednesday, April 10, from 1-6:30 p.m. at the Great Bend Events Center. The event connects families with information about USD 428 Preschool and Kindergarten programs and other community resources that serve young learners. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Summer Professional Development &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Mrs. Blevins has worked with the coaches to design and offer a wide variety of summer courses for teachers, most of which earn college credits for professional development. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Curriculum Meeting Minutes &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Curriculum Steering Committee: minutes 1/9/24, next meeting 3/5/24 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ Professional Development Council (PDC), 1/8 and 2/5/24 minutes, next meeting 3/4/247. BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. District Safety Committee Updates &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The district safety committee continues to meet. The current focus is on developing an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). While the district currently has emergency plans, this will be a more complete and all-encompassing emergency plan. Future meetings will include tabletop activities with local emergency management to test the EOP in real-life situations. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. FEMA Update &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; FEMA government officials will be onsite at USD 428 on February 21 to view four uncompleted roof projects from hail and wind damage during the 7/16/23 storm. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. District Property and Casualty Insurance Update &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Project Updates &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ 1809 24th, 1721 24th, 1725 24th &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ District Phone system &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ▪ District Camera system8. SUPERINTENDENT REPORT &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Legislative Update &nbsp; &nbsp;B. USD 428 Education Foundation Mini-grants &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Parent-Teacher Conference Dates: February 22 and 23, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Approval of Grants / Contributions9. FINANCIAL PRESENTATION10. CONSENT AGENDA &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Approval of BOE Meeting Minutes (January 8 and 25, 2024)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Acceptance of Bills and Financial Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Personnel Report11. EXECUTIVE SESSION &nbsp; &nbsp;The Board of Education will go into executive session. “Madam President, I move that the board go into executive session to discuss an individual employee’s performance pursuant to non-elected personnel exception under KOMA. The open meeting will resume in this room at ___:___P.M.”12. UPCOMING DATES &nbsp; &nbsp;• No School: Friday, February 23 is a NO SCHOOL day, and an early dismissal February 22. &nbsp; &nbsp;• BOE Luncheon Meeting: February 27, 2024, Park Elementary School &nbsp; &nbsp;• BOE Regular Meeting: The next BOE regular monthly meeting is scheduled for March 4, 2024, at the District Education Center. (one week earlier due to Spring Break) &nbsp; &nbsp;• No School on Friday, March 8, for Teacher Grading/Collaboration. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Spring Break: USD 428 will observe Spring Break March 11-15, 2024. &nbsp; &nbsp;• Board Work Session: 5:00 p.m., on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the District Education Center. &nbsp; &nbsp;• IBB Negotiation Meeting: 8:00 a.m., on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at the District Education Center.13. ADJOURNMENT

USD 428 school board meeting agenda (2/12)

Barton Community College will host a blood drive&nbsp;from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 23 in the Kirkman Practice Gym. Donors will receive a $20 Amazon gift card from the American Red Cross.

Donors are encouraged to set an appointment using the "RapidPass" system. RapidPass allows donors to complete their pre-reading and donation questions online from the comfort and privacy of their home or office; reducing the time they spend at the blood drive by up to 15 minutes. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/rapidpass" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">redcrossblood.org/rapidpass</a>&nbsp;to sign up and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/local-homepage/events/heart.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.redcrossblood.org/local-homepage/events/heart.html</a>&nbsp;for gift card information. If donors choose to use the RapidPass system, they must complete the form the day of their donation. This can be done as early as midnight of that day. Walk-ins will still be accepted, but the new system is designed to make the process more streamlined. For more information

Information about blood donation from the American Red Cross:

A few of the reasons you may not be able to give blood:

For more information, contact Barton Campus Nurse Jenni Bauer, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bauerj@bartonccc.edu">bauerj@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9233.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707248324515.jpeg" alt="A Barton employee gives blood on the Barton campus at a previous blood drive." />
 <figcaption>A Barton employee gives blood on the Barton campus at a previous blood drive.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story and photo by Joe VinduskaBarton Community College will host a blood drive&nbsp;from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 23 in the Kirkman Practice Gym. Donors will receive a $20 Amazon gift card from the American Red Cross.Donors are encouraged to set an appointment using the "RapidPass" system. RapidPass allows donors to complete their pre-reading and donation questions online from the comfort and privacy of their home or office; reducing the time they spend at the blood drive by up to 15 minutes. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/rapidpass" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">redcrossblood.org/rapidpass</a>&nbsp;to sign up and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/local-homepage/events/heart.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.redcrossblood.org/local-homepage/events/heart.html</a>&nbsp;for gift card information. If donors choose to use the RapidPass system, they must complete the form the day of their donation. This can be done as early as midnight of that day. Walk-ins will still be accepted, but the new system is designed to make the process more streamlined. For more informationInformation about blood donation from the American Red Cross:<ul>
 <li>On any given day, an average of 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed in the United States.</li><li>An individual suffering from massive blood loss may require transfusions of up to 100 pints of red blood cells.</li><li>A unit of blood once obtained has to be transfused in 42 days. If not, it has to be discarded.</li><li>The average adult body contains 10-12 pints (units) of blood.</li><li>There is no substitute for human blood. It cannot be manufactured.</li><li>According to the American Cancer Society, about 1.7 million people will be diagnosed with cancer annually. Many of them will need blood, sometimes daily, during their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/blood-donation-process/what-happens-to-donated-blood/blood-transfusions/reasons-transfusions.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">chemotherapy treatment</a>.</li>
 </ul>How to prepare for giving blood:<ul>
 <li>The day prior begin drinking extra fluids especially water with electrolyte supplements. Good hydration will make the process of giving blood easy.</li><li>Eat a good breakfast or lunch prior to giving blood. Good hydration and good nutrition will help prevent lightheadedness and weakness associated with giving blood.</li><li>Eat iron-rich foods to help provide good hemoglobin. Red meat, oysters, clams, soybeans, dried beans, peas, lentils, whole grain cereals and breads, prunes, dried fruit and liver are excellent sources of iron.</li><li>Vitamin C helps the body absorb the iron, so eat foods rich in vitamin C such as: citrus fruits or juices, kiwi, cantaloupe, strawberries, broccoli, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, cabbage, spinach and leafy greens like turnips and collard greens.</li>
 </ul>A few of the reasons you may not be able to give blood:<ul>
 <li>&nbsp;Low blood pressure.</li><li>&nbsp;High blood pressure.</li><li>&nbsp;Fever, cough or other acute cold symptoms.</li><li>&nbsp;On antibiotics for an infection.</li><li>&nbsp;Body piercing: eligible if under sterile conditions. If questionable, required to wait 12 months.</li><li>&nbsp;Pregnancy.</li><li>&nbsp;Tattoo if applied at a state-regulated facility. If not, must wait 12 months.</li><li>&nbsp;Travel outside the US in countries having high risk of malaria.</li>
 </ul>For more information, contact Barton Campus Nurse Jenni Bauer, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bauerj@bartonccc.edu">bauerj@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9233.

Red Cross to give out $20 Amazon gift cards at Barton blood drive

Most officials running for re-election have previously been elected. That is not the case for Barton County Register of Deeds Glennda French. Last August, French was selected at a Republican Convention as the replacement for longtime Register of Deeds Pam Wornkey. French has submitted paperwork to be on the ballot for her first election so she can continue some ongoing projects.

"I really enjoy working here," she said. "We've added some things like the passport pictures. We can take those here in the office now. We've put documents online so we have links on our Barton County website so people can do that rather than come in."

French worked in the deeds office for three years before the appointment to the head job. She and staff are now in the process of setting up a records notification system that will notify anyone who signs up when a document has been filed under their name or any property they own. French said it's another layer of safety for residents.

The 2024 primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6. The final day to register or update voter registration information for that election is Tuesday, July 16. 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/2024/2/1707494760580.jpeg" alt="Barton County Register of Deeds Glennda French files paperwork to get on the ballot for the 2024 election." />
 <figcaption>Barton County Register of Deeds Glennda French files paperwork to get on the ballot for the 2024 election.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostMost officials running for re-election have previously been elected. That is not the case for Barton County Register of Deeds Glennda French. Last August, French was selected at a Republican Convention as the replacement for longtime Register of Deeds Pam Wornkey. French has submitted paperwork to be on the ballot for her first election so she can continue some ongoing projects."I really enjoy working here," she said. "We've added some things like the passport pictures. We can take those here in the office now. We've put documents online so we have links on our Barton County website so people can do that rather than come in."French worked in the deeds office for three years before the appointment to the head job. She and staff are now in the process of setting up a records notification system that will notify anyone who signs up when a document has been filed under their name or any property they own. French said it's another layer of safety for residents.The 2024 primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6. The final day to register or update voter registration information for that election is Tuesday, July 16. The winners of the primary election will advance to the general election held on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

French on ballot to retain Barton County Deeds position

Great Bend Recreation Commission Board Meeting Feb. 12 - 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation Center

1. Call to Order &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Introduction of Guests&nbsp;

2. Consent Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;2.1 Minutes: January 8th, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;2.2 Bills Payable &nbsp; &nbsp;2.3 Financial Reports

3. Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;3.1 Liaison Report USD#428/City of Great Bend &nbsp; &nbsp;3.2 Board Members’ Comments

4. Old Business Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;4.1 Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.2 Fitness-Heath-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.3 Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.4 November Attendance Report

5. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;5.1 Softball &amp; Baseball Rules &nbsp; &nbsp;5.2 Youth Sports Parents Guide &nbsp; &nbsp;5.3 Recommendation for Approval – GAAP Waiver Resolution &nbsp; &nbsp;5.4 KRPA State Conference Update &nbsp; &nbsp;5.5 Great Bend Sports Complex and Vet’s Park Playground &nbsp; &nbsp;5.6 Great Bend Rec Activity Center Playground

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603291691646.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Recreation Commission Board Meeting Feb. 12 - 4 p.m. Carl Soden Recreation CenterAgenda1. Call to Order &nbsp; &nbsp;1.1 Adoption of Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;1.2 Introduction of Guests&nbsp; 2. Consent Agenda &nbsp; &nbsp;2.1 Minutes: January 8th, 2024 &nbsp; &nbsp;2.2 Bills Payable &nbsp; &nbsp;2.3 Financial Reports3. Communications &nbsp; &nbsp;3.1 Liaison Report USD#428/City of Great Bend &nbsp; &nbsp;3.2 Board Members’ Comments4. Old Business Reports &nbsp; &nbsp;4.1 Enrichment Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.2 Fitness-Heath-Wellness Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.3 Sports Report &nbsp; &nbsp;4.4 November Attendance Report5. New Business &nbsp; &nbsp;5.1 Softball &amp; Baseball Rules &nbsp; &nbsp;5.2 Youth Sports Parents Guide &nbsp; &nbsp;5.3 Recommendation for Approval – GAAP Waiver Resolution &nbsp; &nbsp;5.4 KRPA State Conference Update &nbsp; &nbsp;5.5 Great Bend Sports Complex and Vet’s Park Playground &nbsp; &nbsp;5.6 Great Bend Rec Activity Center Playground6. Other Business7. Adjournment

Great Bend Rec Board meeting agenda (2/12)

Holy Family School will host a fifth and sixth grade Scholars' Bowl on Monday, February 12. Seven rounds of competition will be held with questions from the areas of Social Science, Language Arts, Science, Math, Fine Arts, Sports and Current Events.  The competition will be held at the School and the public is invited to attend and enjoy watching the students compete.

     Teams competing at 3 p.m. will be Holy Family Blue, Holy Family White, Park Elementary, Riley Elementary, Eisenhower Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Jefferson Elementary and St. Joseph of Ellinwood.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657828639514.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Holy Family School will host a fifth and sixth grade Scholars' Bowl on Monday, February 12. Seven rounds of competition will be held with questions from the areas of Social Science, Language Arts, Science, Math, Fine Arts, Sports and Current Events. The competition will be held at the School and the public is invited to attend and enjoy watching the students compete. Teams competing at 3 p.m. will be Holy Family Blue, Holy Family White, Park Elementary, Riley Elementary, Eisenhower Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Jefferson Elementary and St. Joseph of Ellinwood.

Holy Family hosting 5th-6th Grade Scholar's Bowl today

2/9 BOOKED: Jeanna Gowdy on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Leonard Boese on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $12,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Joseph Miller on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Juan Prieto on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.

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

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

RELEASED: Orlin Akins on Ellinwood Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, on 18-hour OR bond.

RELEASED: Jeanna Gowdy on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through A1 Bail Bonds.

2/10 BOOKED: Christopher Thompson on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jon Pendergraft on Barton County District Court case for Restricted Driving and Expired Registration, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Joseph Miller on Barton County District Court case, after time served.

RELEASED: Amanda Tracy on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through B&amp;K Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Andrew Morgan on Rush County District Court warrants for Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness and Aggravated Criminal Threat, after posting a total surety bond of $41,250 through Ace Bail Bonds.

2/11 BOOKED: Rene Benitez on Barton County District Court case for Introduction of Contraband, Driving on Sidewalk, and No Driver's License, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

BOOKED: D'Juan Jones on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Controlled Substance and Driving Without a License, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Tiffany Burt on Hoisington Municipal Court case, for time served.

RELEASED: Juan Prieto on Barton County District Court case, for time served.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639765862512.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>2/9 BOOKED: Jeanna Gowdy on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Leonard Boese on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $12,500 C/S.BOOKED: Joseph Miller on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Juan Prieto on Barton County District Court case, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Amanda Tracy on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Paraphernalia, bond set at $10,000 C/S.RELEASED: Nathan Manley on two Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Orlin Akins on Ellinwood Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, on 18-hour OR bond.RELEASED: Jeanna Gowdy on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $1,000 surety bond through A1 Bail Bonds.2/10 BOOKED: Christopher Thompson on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jon Pendergraft on Barton County District Court case for Restricted Driving and Expired Registration, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Joseph Miller on Barton County District Court case, after time served.RELEASED: Amanda Tracy on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Paraphernalia, after posting $10,000 surety bond through B&amp;K Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Andrew Morgan on Rush County District Court warrants for Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness and Aggravated Criminal Threat, after posting a total surety bond of $41,250 through Ace Bail Bonds.2/11 BOOKED: Rene Benitez on Barton County District Court case for Introduction of Contraband, Driving on Sidewalk, and No Driver's License, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: D'Juan Jones on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Controlled Substance and Driving Without a License, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Tiffany Burt on Hoisington Municipal Court case, for time served.RELEASED: Juan Prieto on Barton County District Court case, for time served.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (2/9 - 2/11)

Some students at Great Bend High School are getting real-world experience in the business and marketing world. On Tuesday, Feb. 13, the Panther basketball teams will host Liberal. That's also Pink Out night at the gymnasium. Business Marketing Teacher Karen Moeder said the shirts her classes made for Pink Out Night are just a small selection of the items in the Paw Shop located in the commons area at GBHS.

"If anybody needs Great Bend Panther apparel and they want to tell us how to make a shirt, we can design it and create it," she said. "We do individual things like that for people, especially if we have the shirts. If it's a red, black, or white shirt, we'll probably be able to help them."

Moeder is in her second year teaching the business classes as part of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathway. There are approximately 80 students in her business and marketing classes, but only about two dozen students help create the apparel. The class made shirts for student ambassadors at the start of the year and is now working on After Prom Committee shirts. Moeder said there is pride when the kids see their products going down the halls or at games.

"We would recognize our student ambassadors who are walking through the halls because of the shirts the Paw Shop kids made," she said. "It is very cool. And the teachers like it. If a club has a shirt they want made for their club, we can do it very efficiently. We don't charge a lot of money."

Charging for the shirts is all part of the learning process that begins with coming up with a design. A hit TV show was worked into the theme for Pink Out Night.

"We just do our research," Moeder said. "We even go on Pinterest a little bit and see what's popular right now. The 'Friends' theme seems to be very popular."

The design is put together using various software, then transferred to a Cricut, a machine that cuts various materials to a specific design. The designs are then applied to shirts using a heat press. The students are hands-on with every step from start to finish, including packaging and delivering the shirts.

This year, the classes sold 35 Pink Out shirts. The number was higher last year but the students learned it can be costly to print shirts before they are paid for.

"We did it differently last year and we didn't sell them in advance and we got stuck with several extra shirts," said Moeder. "We're trying to be more efficient this year."

Then there is pricing: charge too little and no money comes back into the Paw Shop. Charge too much and shoppers may choose not to buy. The design of the shirt can also impact sales and popularity.

"We don't put the date on any of our shirts because then you date your shirts," Moeder said. "Some kids don't feel like they can wear a 2024 shirt in 2025. Just things like that you learn from trial and error."

Moeder said the goal of Paw Shop is not to take sales away from area businesses, but the classes do give her students real-life marketing and sales experience. Because the students only work during class time, a small order of 50-60 shirts could take two or three weeks to complete. Larger orders are usually out of the question.

While Pink Out shirts were sold only to GBHS students, the Paw Shop is open to the public during halftimes of the Panther varsity basketball games. The students gain retail experience selling the many shirts and other apparel in the store.

Anyone wanting a custom order from the Paw Shop can email Moeder at karen.moeder@usd428.net, or leave a message with the GBHS office at (620) 793-1521.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707423866264.jpeg" alt="Diego Pasos and Arturo Cervantes packed up Pink Out shirts designed, manufactured, and sold by GBHS business marketing students." />
 <figcaption>Diego Pasos and Arturo Cervantes packed up Pink Out shirts designed, manufactured, and sold by GBHS business marketing students.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostSome students at Great Bend High School are getting real-world experience in the business and marketing world. On Tuesday, Feb. 13, the Panther basketball teams will host Liberal. That's also Pink Out night at the gymnasium. Business Marketing Teacher Karen Moeder said the shirts her classes made for Pink Out Night are just a small selection of the items in the Paw Shop located in the commons area at GBHS."If anybody needs Great Bend Panther apparel and they want to tell us how to make a shirt, we can design it and create it," she said. "We do individual things like that for people, especially if we have the shirts. If it's a red, black, or white shirt, we'll probably be able to help them."Moeder is in her second year teaching the business classes as part of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathway. There are approximately 80 students in her business and marketing classes, but only about two dozen students help create the apparel. The class made shirts for student ambassadors at the start of the year and is now working on After Prom Committee shirts. Moeder said there is pride when the kids see their products going down the halls or at games.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707423938275.jpeg" alt="This year's Pink Out Night shirts were inspired by the TV show 'Friends.'" />
 <figcaption>This year's Pink Out Night shirts were inspired by the TV show 'Friends.'</figcaption>
 </figure>"We would recognize our student ambassadors who are walking through the halls because of the shirts the Paw Shop kids made," she said. "It is very cool. And the teachers like it. If a club has a shirt they want made for their club, we can do it very efficiently. We don't charge a lot of money."Charging for the shirts is all part of the learning process that begins with coming up with a design. A hit TV show was worked into the theme for Pink Out Night."We just do our research," Moeder said. "We even go on Pinterest a little bit and see what's popular right now. The 'Friends' theme seems to be very popular."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707424007010.jpeg" alt="Marissa Boone applies the Pink Out design to a shirt using a heat press." />
 <figcaption>Marissa Boone applies the Pink Out design to a shirt using a heat press.</figcaption>
 </figure>The design is put together using various software, then transferred to a Cricut, a machine that cuts various materials to a specific design. The designs are then applied to shirts using a heat press. The students are hands-on with every step from start to finish, including packaging and delivering the shirts.This year, the classes sold 35 Pink Out shirts. The number was higher last year but the students learned it can be costly to print shirts before they are paid for."We did it differently last year and we didn't sell them in advance and we got stuck with several extra shirts," said Moeder. "We're trying to be more efficient this year."Then there is pricing: charge too little and no money comes back into the Paw Shop. Charge too much and shoppers may choose not to buy. The design of the shirt can also impact sales and popularity."We don't put the date on any of our shirts because then you date your shirts," Moeder said. "Some kids don't feel like they can wear a 2024 shirt in 2025. Just things like that you learn from trial and error."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707424045184.jpeg" alt="The Paw Shop is open to the public during halftime of the Panther varsity basketball games. The shop sells shirts, cups, license plates, and other custom-made Panther apparel." />
 <figcaption>The Paw Shop is open to the public during halftime of the Panther varsity basketball games. The shop sells shirts, cups, license plates, and other custom-made Panther apparel.</figcaption>
 </figure>Moeder said the goal of Paw Shop is not to take sales away from area businesses, but the classes do give her students real-life marketing and sales experience. Because the students only work during class time, a small order of 50-60 shirts could take two or three weeks to complete. Larger orders are usually out of the question.While Pink Out shirts were sold only to GBHS students, the Paw Shop is open to the public during halftimes of the Panther varsity basketball games. The students gain retail experience selling the many shirts and other apparel in the store.Anyone wanting a custom order from the Paw Shop can email Moeder at karen.moeder@usd428.net, or leave a message with the GBHS office at (620) 793-1521.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707424295528.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Paw Shop at GBHS giving students real-world business experience

Today Sunny, with a high near 51. Northwest wind 6 to 13 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 29. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming southwest after midnight.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 59. Southwest wind 7 to 9 mph.

Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 30. West-northwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming south after midnight.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 59. South-southeast wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 52.

Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 30.

Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 42.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 19.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 42.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 25.

Today Sunny, with a high near 51. Northwest wind 6 to 13 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 29. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming southwest after midnight.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 59. Southwest wind 7 to 9 mph.Tuesday Night Clear, with a low around 30. West-northwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming south after midnight.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 59. South-southeast wind 6 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 30.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 52.Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 30.Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 42.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 19.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 42.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 25.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 53.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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