USD 428 invites the community to an Open House and Job Fair at their newly renovated Support Services facility scheduled for Wednesday, October 11, 2023. The facility houses the Food and Nutrition Department &amp; Central Kitchen, Maintenance, Grounds, and Transportation services, all conveniently located under one roof.

Date: Wednesday, October 11, 2023 Time: 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Location: 625 E 10th Street, Great Bend

The Open House will provide an opportunity for attendees to explore the facility, gain insight into the services that support Great Bend students &amp; teachers, and understand how this centralized location and important services support a high-quality education in our district.

“The work of our team at Support Services positively impacts students every day,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 superintendent. “Meals that nourish students, safe transportation, and well-maintained classrooms and buildings – they keep our district running. We encourage parents and community members to stop by, take a tour, enjoy light refreshments, and learn more about how the new facility enhances our ability to serve our schools and community.”

In addition to the Open House, the event will also include a Job Fair. With a variety of openings at the Support Services building, interested candidates can learn more about positions, pay, and benefits available to USD 428 employees.

Highlighted Job Openings include: • Plumber • Bus Driver (full-time, part-time, substitute) • Food Service Workers

To explore these career opportunities and apply online, please visit www.428jobs.net. Questions about the Support Services Open House &amp; Job Fair can be directed to the District Education Center at 620-793-1500. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695918343258.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From USD 428...USD 428 invites the community to an Open House and Job Fair at their newly renovated Support Services facility scheduled for Wednesday, October 11, 2023. The facility houses the Food and Nutrition Department &amp; Central Kitchen, Maintenance, Grounds, and Transportation services, all conveniently located under one roof.Date: Wednesday, October 11, 2023 Time: 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Location: 625 E 10th Street, Great BendThe Open House will provide an opportunity for attendees to explore the facility, gain insight into the services that support Great Bend students &amp; teachers, and understand how this centralized location and important services support a high-quality education in our district.“The work of our team at Support Services positively impacts students every day,” said Khris Thexton, USD 428 superintendent. “Meals that nourish students, safe transportation, and well-maintained classrooms and buildings – they keep our district running. We encourage parents and community members to stop by, take a tour, enjoy light refreshments, and learn more about how the new facility enhances our ability to serve our schools and community.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695918410081.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to the Open House, the event will also include a Job Fair. With a variety of openings at the Support Services building, interested candidates can learn more about positions, pay, and benefits available to USD 428 employees.Highlighted Job Openings include: • Plumber • Bus Driver (full-time, part-time, substitute) • Food Service WorkersTo explore these career opportunities and apply online, please visit www.428jobs.net. Questions about the Support Services Open House &amp; Job Fair can be directed to the District Education Center at 620-793-1500.

Open house for USD 428's renovated support services facility 

Today A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then isolated showers between 8 a.m. and noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph increasing to 24 to 29 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 68. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a south wind 20 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 65. Breezy.

Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.

Monday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after&nbsp; 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Breezy.

Tuesday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 78. Breezy.

Tuesday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.

Wednesday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.

Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 49.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 74.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 a.m., then isolated showers between 8 a.m. and noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph increasing to 24 to 29 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 68. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a south wind 20 to 28 mph, with gusts as high as 37 mph.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 65. Breezy.Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.Monday Night A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after&nbsp; 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Breezy.Tuesday A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 78. Breezy.Tuesday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 53.Wednesday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.Wednesday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 49.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 74.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday's weather

Since the Stepping Up program has been successful in treating addiction in Barton County, The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation wanted to expand it into the other counties it serves.

The non-profit entity can now follow through on those expansion plans for Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties.

The Center, 5815 Broadway, recently was awarded a Kansas Fights Addiction 2023 Treatment Grant in the amount of $177,375.

“The Center has demonstrated success in providing treatment services to individuals incarcerated in Barton County,” said Wendy Lockwood, chief operating officer who wrote and submitted the grant. “The expansion includes medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for substance-use disorders.

“MAT has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment option for those with alcohol-use disorder, as well as opioid-use disorder. Starting treatment while incarcerated and continuing after release helps reduce recidivism.”

In addition, MAT is offered to other individuals seeking this method of treatment – not just those who are incarcerated.

“MAT assists those battling addiction and provides another option on their journey toward recovery,” Lockwood noted. “Substance-use disorder can impact any person or family. It does not discriminate by race, gender or income. This is why The Center wants to offer accessible, effective treatment.”

Funding for this project was provided, in part, by a grant approved and awarded by the Kansas Fights Addiction Grant Review Board with grant administration support from the Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans.

“The Center appreciates the opportunity to partner with Sunflower Foundation and the grant review board to provide increased access to MAT for central Kansas residents,” Lockwood commented.

The program at the Barton County Detention Facility began last year to support individuals who oftentimes don’t have insurance or private funds for services that address their underlying issues.

When someone is released from jail, The Center follows-up with the individual, offering guidance to community mental-health resources.

The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695823911888.jpeg" alt="Wendy Lockwood, COO at The Center" />
 <figcaption>Wendy Lockwood, COO at The Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Since the Stepping Up program has been successful in treating addiction in Barton County, The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation wanted to expand it into the other counties it serves.The non-profit entity can now follow through on those expansion plans for Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties.The Center, 5815 Broadway, recently was awarded a Kansas Fights Addiction 2023 Treatment Grant in the amount of $177,375.“The Center has demonstrated success in providing treatment services to individuals incarcerated in Barton County,” said Wendy Lockwood, chief operating officer who wrote and submitted the grant. “The expansion includes medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for substance-use disorders.“MAT has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment option for those with alcohol-use disorder, as well as opioid-use disorder. Starting treatment while incarcerated and continuing after release helps reduce recidivism.”In addition, MAT is offered to other individuals seeking this method of treatment – not just those who are incarcerated.“MAT assists those battling addiction and provides another option on their journey toward recovery,” Lockwood noted. “Substance-use disorder can impact any person or family. It does not discriminate by race, gender or income. This is why The Center wants to offer accessible, effective treatment.”Funding for this project was provided, in part, by a grant approved and awarded by the Kansas Fights Addiction Grant Review Board with grant administration support from the Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans.“The Center appreciates the opportunity to partner with Sunflower Foundation and the grant review board to provide increased access to MAT for central Kansas residents,” Lockwood commented.The program at the Barton County Detention Facility began last year to support individuals who oftentimes don’t have insurance or private funds for services that address their underlying issues.When someone is released from jail, The Center follows-up with the individual, offering guidance to community mental-health resources.The Center for Counseling &amp; Consultation is a Community Mental Health Center serving Barton, Pawnee, Rice and Stafford counties. Professionally trained personnel offer: individual and group therapy; marriage and family counseling; community-support services; community-based services; psychosocial rehabilitation; peer support; and medication management. The confidential 24/7 crisis hotline number is 800-875-2544.

Grant for addiction treatment awarded to The Center

Barton Community College has teamed up with the CKP Suicide Prevention Task Force to bring author, actor, and international public speaker Josh Rivedal to the Barton County campus to entertain and educate about the importance of mental health and wellbeing. His program, “How to Live Mentally Well and Crush it During Difficult Times,” will be free and open to the public from 7-8:30 p.m. Oct. 10 in the Fine Arts Auditorium. It will also be live streamed from Barton’s YouTube&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/BaCOUGARnKS" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">page</a>.

Barton Community College Mental Health Counselor Jakki Maser said she is excited to bring Josh Rivedal to the community to expand the conversations around mental health and wellness.

“It’s important that people know that wellbeing does not mean being happy all the time or that there won’t be stress, difficult periods, or emotional discomfort,” she said. “Mental wellness encompasses all emotions, and we want to bring awareness to the fact that all people struggle and have experiences that are really hard to talk about. Nobody is alone in that. It is by having those hard conversations that we learn how to cope, adapt, connect, and grow from those difficult experiences, and that is what creates resiliency and wellness. In his presentation, Josh inspires and challenges people to do those very things.”

According to his website, Josh Rivedal is the founder and creative director of The i'Mpossible Project. This organization creates workshops, seminars, curriculum, continuing education, books, and multimedia on suicide prevention and mental health in workplaces, campuses, school districts, communities, professional organizations, and more. A project born out of his own personal struggle with mental health and the loss of his father to suicide, Rivedal creates content that is relatable and that inspires, educates, entertains, and transforms.

Admission is free. Content is recommended for ages 12+. For more information, contact Maser at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:maserj@bartonccc.edu">maserj@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9295.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695763990884.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe VinduskaBarton Community College has teamed up with the CKP Suicide Prevention Task Force to bring author, actor, and international public speaker Josh Rivedal to the Barton County campus to entertain and educate about the importance of mental health and wellbeing. His program, “How to Live Mentally Well and Crush it During Difficult Times,” will be free and open to the public from 7-8:30 p.m. Oct. 10 in the Fine Arts Auditorium. It will also be live streamed from Barton’s YouTube&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/BaCOUGARnKS" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">page</a>.Barton Community College Mental Health Counselor Jakki Maser said she is excited to bring Josh Rivedal to the community to expand the conversations around mental health and wellness.“It’s important that people know that wellbeing does not mean being happy all the time or that there won’t be stress, difficult periods, or emotional discomfort,” she said. “Mental wellness encompasses all emotions, and we want to bring awareness to the fact that all people struggle and have experiences that are really hard to talk about. Nobody is alone in that. It is by having those hard conversations that we learn how to cope, adapt, connect, and grow from those difficult experiences, and that is what creates resiliency and wellness. In his presentation, Josh inspires and challenges people to do those very things.”According to his website, Josh Rivedal is the founder and creative director of The i'Mpossible Project. This organization creates workshops, seminars, curriculum, continuing education, books, and multimedia on suicide prevention and mental health in workplaces, campuses, school districts, communities, professional organizations, and more. A project born out of his own personal struggle with mental health and the loss of his father to suicide, Rivedal creates content that is relatable and that inspires, educates, entertains, and transforms.Admission is free. Content is recommended for ages 12+. For more information, contact Maser at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:maserj@bartonccc.edu">maserj@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or (620) 792-9295.&nbsp;

Barton CC to host mental health advocate Josh Rivedal

On Oct. 11, K-State Research and Extension will be hosting a program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 06:00 pm. The meeting will be held at Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands Center located at 592 NE K 156 Hwy, Great Bend. &nbsp;During his program, he will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls. A light meal will be served and is sponsored by P &amp; S Electric of Great Bend. Space is limited to 70 people. &nbsp;If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>On Oct. 11, K-State Research and Extension will be hosting a program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 06:00 pm. The meeting will be held at Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands Center located at 592 NE K 156 Hwy, Great Bend. &nbsp;During his program, he will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls. A light meal will be served and is sponsored by P &amp; S Electric of Great Bend. Space is limited to 70 people. &nbsp;If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Coyote program scheduled for Barton County

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Construction of the Stafford County Port Authority (SCPA) continues to draw nearer. Earlier this month, the Stafford County Zoning Commission unanimously approved a special use permit for the construction of the port. The matter next goes before the Stafford County Commission for approval in October. Stafford County Eco Devo Director Ryan Russell called the approval a big step.

"The people around the property were all at the meeting, so the people that own property were there to hear about the port," he said. "We basically needed to have a public meeting to able to get a permit to start building on the property."

There are still many moving pieces in the project, but SCPA President Carolyn Dunn said accurately presenting the project and getting approval from the zoning board now is important for future steps in the project.

"We've tried to balance this with being at a stage in the process where we can more accurately represent how we envision this development evolving," she said, "but also getting the permit in place so that doesn't become a question mark that would hold back either funders or other companies from committing."

SCPA is in negotiations with Nebraska-based Adams Industries to be the port operator. Adams Industries is a supply-chain services company that specializes in trucking, warehousing, transloading, and logistics.

More than $5 million has already been raised for the project, and 256 acres of land have been purchased for the port, which will serve as a transportation and shipping hub near the junction of US-50 and US-281 highways near a BNSF railroad mainline.

SCPA received a $2.5 million Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) grant in April 2022, and was awarded another $2.5 million from the Kansas state legislature for the project. Another $800,000 was awarded to Stafford County Eco Devo to loan to SCPA with flexible payment terms. SCPA President Carolyn Dunn has also applied for a large federal grant.

"There's more than one federal grant opportunity that we may be able to pursue," she said. "I think, regardless, it's going to be a piece of how we carry this forward. We just don't have certainty on which grant program is going to fund how much."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629370043062.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostConstruction of the Stafford County Port Authority (SCPA) continues to draw nearer. Earlier this month, the Stafford County Zoning Commission unanimously approved a special use permit for the construction of the port. The matter next goes before the Stafford County Commission for approval in October. Stafford County Eco Devo Director Ryan Russell called the approval a big step."The people around the property were all at the meeting, so the people that own property were there to hear about the port," he said. "We basically needed to have a public meeting to able to get a permit to start building on the property."There are still many moving pieces in the project, but SCPA President Carolyn Dunn said accurately presenting the project and getting approval from the zoning board now is important for future steps in the project."We've tried to balance this with being at a stage in the process where we can more accurately represent how we envision this development evolving," she said, "but also getting the permit in place so that doesn't become a question mark that would hold back either funders or other companies from committing."SCPA is in negotiations with Nebraska-based Adams Industries to be the port operator. Adams Industries is a supply-chain services company that specializes in trucking, warehousing, transloading, and logistics.More than $5 million has already been raised for the project, and 256 acres of land have been purchased for the port, which will serve as a transportation and shipping hub near the junction of US-50 and US-281 highways near a BNSF railroad mainline.SCPA received a $2.5 million Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) grant in April 2022, and was awarded another $2.5 million from the Kansas state legislature for the project. Another $800,000 was awarded to Stafford County Eco Devo to loan to SCPA with flexible payment terms. SCPA President Carolyn Dunn has also applied for a large federal grant."There's more than one federal grant opportunity that we may be able to pursue," she said. "I think, regardless, it's going to be a piece of how we carry this forward. We just don't have certainty on which grant program is going to fund how much."

Stafford Co. Planning Commission gives green light on port authority

USD 428 Great Bend schools implemented Capturing Kids' Hearts in August 2021. During Thursday's board of education luncheon at the high school, Principal Tim Friess called it one of the best moves the district could have made for his building. The program focuses on social-emotional well-being and relationship-driven success with small acts like greeting students at the door and creating social contracts. 

"If we hadn't gone to Capturing Kids' Hearts and doing the things that we feel like we're doing well in that process, this probably wouldn't be the same place right now," Friess said. "I'm looking at you guys and saying thank you for implementing it."

Last year at this time, GBHS had 590 disciplinary incidents. During the same time frame this year, that number has dropped to 294. Friess also credited the board with changing the cell phone policy. In July, the board announced phones would no longer be allowed in classrooms at GBHS. Through September last year, there were 27 electronics violations at the school, and nine incidences where phones were taken away for the remainder of the day. This year, with the more strict policy, there have been 92 electronics violations but only three requiring the phone be taken away for the day.

"It was the same policy we had last year," Friess said. "You guys didn't do anything different to us. The only difference in our policy from last year to this year was it says 'unless teachers allow it.'"

Friess believes fewer phones in classrooms has also cut down on vaping suspensions, with that number shrinking from nine at this time last year to just one this year. Other early benefits of the no-phone policy include more students turning to books and more social interaction in class. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695925644197.jpeg" alt="Great Bend High School Principal Tim Friess presents to the board of education during Thursday's luncheon at GBHS." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend High School Principal Tim Friess presents to the board of education during Thursday's luncheon at GBHS.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostUSD 428 Great Bend schools implemented Capturing Kids' Hearts in August 2021. During Thursday's board of education luncheon at the high school, Principal Tim Friess called it one of the best moves the district could have made for his building. The program focuses on social-emotional well-being and relationship-driven success with small acts like greeting students at the door and creating social contracts. "If we hadn't gone to Capturing Kids' Hearts and doing the things that we feel like we're doing well in that process, this probably wouldn't be the same place right now," Friess said. "I'm looking at you guys and saying thank you for implementing it."Last year at this time, GBHS had 590 disciplinary incidents. During the same time frame this year, that number has dropped to 294. Friess also credited the board with changing the cell phone policy. In July, the board announced phones would no longer be allowed in classrooms at GBHS. Through September last year, there were 27 electronics violations at the school, and nine incidences where phones were taken away for the remainder of the day. This year, with the more strict policy, there have been 92 electronics violations but only three requiring the phone be taken away for the day."It was the same policy we had last year," Friess said. "You guys didn't do anything different to us. The only difference in our policy from last year to this year was it says 'unless teachers allow it.'"Friess believes fewer phones in classrooms has also cut down on vaping suspensions, with that number shrinking from nine at this time last year to just one this year. Other early benefits of the no-phone policy include more students turning to books and more social interaction in class.

No phone policy at GBHS already having positive impact

On Tuesday, Sept. 26, at 9:19 p.m., the
Pawnee County Sheriff's Office, K9 Unit, along with Stafford County Sheriff's
Office and the Great Bend Police Department, executed a search warrant at the
Finer Mobile Home Park, located at 5501 9th Street, lot #94, in the City of
Great Bend.



The search warrant was an ongoing, multi-agency investigation related to
burglaries and motor thefts in Pawnee County and Stafford County. The
networking between all the agencies took place in just a 24-hour period.



Officers gained entry to the residence and recovered stolen items from both Pawnee
and Stafford counties.



Future arrests from the search warrant will be made.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673301210280.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, Sept. 26, at 9:19 p.m., the
Pawnee County Sheriff's Office, K9 Unit, along with Stafford County Sheriff's
Office and the Great Bend Police Department, executed a search warrant at the
Finer Mobile Home Park, located at 5501 9th Street, lot #94, in the City of
Great Bend.

The search warrant was an ongoing, multi-agency investigation related to
burglaries and motor thefts in Pawnee County and Stafford County. The
networking between all the agencies took place in just a 24-hour period.

Officers gained entry to the residence and recovered stolen items from both Pawnee
and Stafford counties.

Future arrests from the search warrant will be made.

Stolen items recovered at mobile home park in Great Bend

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu season typically peaks between December and February. That makes early fall a perfect time to get the flu vaccine. Barton County Health Department Nurse Supervisor Lindsey Ensley said the department will host a drive-thru flu clinic on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 1300 Kansas Ave. in Great Bend.

"The entrance will be off Lakin into our parking lot," she said. "We're going to have two lanes so going westbound on Lakin is how they will get in line. We're starting at 10 a.m. and we'll go until 1 p.m."

Health department staff will take insurance information from patients, or there will be a fee for the vaccination for patients without insurance. The health department is offering a standard vaccine and a high-dose vaccine. Paperwork can be printed ahead of time or picked up at the facility on Saturday.

"They can go on the Barton County website," Ensley said. "There's an outreach form they can print and fill out. Basically, they're demographic information, there are 12 health questions they have to answer, then signatures, of course. We will have plenty of those at the drive-thru as well but they can go on the Barton County site beforehand if they want to."

The CDC projects manufacturers will supply the United States with between 156 and 170 million doses of flu vaccine for the 2023-24 season. <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vimages/shared/vnews/stories/64ff266ad3817/OUTREACH%20Vaccine%20Consent%20Form%20updated%20Aug2022.pdf">CLICK HERE </a>for the outreach form to take to Saturday's clinic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695827255880.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu season typically peaks between December and February. That makes early fall a perfect time to get the flu vaccine. Barton County Health Department Nurse Supervisor Lindsey Ensley said the department will host a drive-thru flu clinic on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 1300 Kansas Ave. in Great Bend."The entrance will be off Lakin into our parking lot," she said. "We're going to have two lanes so going westbound on Lakin is how they will get in line. We're starting at 10 a.m. and we'll go until 1 p.m."Health department staff will take insurance information from patients, or there will be a fee for the vaccination for patients without insurance. The health department is offering a standard vaccine and a high-dose vaccine. Paperwork can be printed ahead of time or picked up at the facility on Saturday."They can go on the Barton County website," Ensley said. "There's an outreach form they can print and fill out. Basically, they're demographic information, there are 12 health questions they have to answer, then signatures, of course. We will have plenty of those at the drive-thru as well but they can go on the Barton County site beforehand if they want to."The CDC projects manufacturers will supply the United States with between 156 and 170 million doses of flu vaccine for the 2023-24 season. <a href="https://www.bartoncounty.org/vimages/shared/vnews/stories/64ff266ad3817/OUTREACH%20Vaccine%20Consent%20Form%20updated%20Aug2022.pdf">CLICK HERE </a>for the outreach form to take to Saturday's clinic.

Barton Co. Health Department hosting drive-thru Flu Clinic Sept. 30

Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns that aired Sept. 27, 2023.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687372980932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hear this week's City Edition episode with Eagle Radio's Cole Reif and Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns that aired Sept. 27, 2023.<div><iframe title="City Edition - Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ii566-14b7384-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The City Edition program airs every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Great Bend Assistant City Administrator Burns

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

At this month’s study session, the Barton Community College Board of
Trustees declared their intent on adopting the Fairness in Women Sports Act.
The policy comes from the Kansas Legislature and states no biological males can
compete with all-female teams.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/06aa718e-cd98-4b7d-aba8-dd6d3f1fab25">RELATED STORY: Barton CC to adopt act banning males from playing in female sports</a>

At Tuesday’s board meeting, Vice President of
Student Services Angie Maddy informed the Barton Trustees of a clarifying detail
that the college will get the student’s biological sex information from the
admissions application.


"The application is where we ask individuals all kinds of things about their identity, including how they see themselves and how they describe themselves as male or female," said Maddy. "There's no big sign up list for one of the teams. Their identifying information is the admissions application. This identifies that as the document we would go back to."

The admissions application will identify the biological sex from an original
birth or adoption certificate. If biological sex at birth is unable to be
determined, the student shall be eligible to participate in male or coed
athletic activities only. 


After hearing the slight tweak to the policy, the Barton Trustees are expected to approve the Fairness in Women Sports Act at
next month’s meeting.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695831201124.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAt this month’s study session, the Barton Community College Board of
Trustees declared their intent on adopting the Fairness in Women Sports Act.
The policy comes from the Kansas Legislature and states no biological males can
compete with all-female teams.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/06aa718e-cd98-4b7d-aba8-dd6d3f1fab25">RELATED STORY: Barton CC to adopt act banning males from playing in female sports</a>At Tuesday’s board meeting, Vice President of
Student Services Angie Maddy informed the Barton Trustees of a clarifying detail
that the college will get the student’s biological sex information from the
admissions application.
"The application is where we ask individuals all kinds of things about their identity, including how they see themselves and how they describe themselves as male or female," said Maddy. "There's no big sign up list for one of the teams. Their identifying information is the admissions application. This identifies that as the document we would go back to."The admissions application will identify the biological sex from an original
birth or adoption certificate. If biological sex at birth is unable to be
determined, the student shall be eligible to participate in male or coed
athletic activities only. 
After hearing the slight tweak to the policy, the Barton Trustees are expected to approve the Fairness in Women Sports Act at
next month’s meeting.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Barton college sorting out details of Fairness in Women Sports Act

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (9/27)

At 4:15 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 192 on
W. US 56 Highway.

At 6:35 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 201 on
W. US 56 Highway.

At 7:55 a.m. an accident was reported at S. US 281 Highway
&amp; SE 50 Road.

At 7:56 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 30 Road
&amp; NE 100 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 8:15 a.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway at
MM 215 in Ellinwood.

At 8:42 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 9th
&amp; Main.

At 12:55 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 50 Road
&amp; NE 110 Avenue in Ellinwood.

At 3:30 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 50 Road.

At 5:12 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 94 SE 20
Road.

At 7:23 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 201 Centre Street
in Pawnee Rock.

At 7:59 p.m. an accident was reported at 989 E. US 56
Highway in Ellinwood.

At 8:07 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 220 Road
in Dubuque. 

Great Bend Police
Department incident log (9/27)

At 12:20 a.m. an officer reported a traffic arrest of
Kristopher Kilgore at 3910 Cedar Park.

At 1:33 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 301 Walnut Street.

At 2:56 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5926 Eisenhower
Avenue.

At 6:35 a.m. BTSO requested assistance with a driving
complaint at MM 201 on W. US 56 Highway.

At 8:40 a.m. convulsions / seizures were reported at 9th
&amp; Main.

At 9:50 a.m. a fraudulent charge on her credit card was
reported at 4701 10th Street.

At 12:24 p.m. a report of wanting an officer to stand by
while they checked on a dog was made at 1107 5th Street.

At 2:21 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2208 25th
Street.

At 3:45 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Washington.

At 4:12 p.m. Lee Pace damaging property inside the store was
reported at Presto, 2337 Washington.

At 5:48 p.m. a parking complaint was reported at 1212 Baker.

At 5:49 p.m. a possible burglary was reported at 914
Harrison.

At 6:42 p.m. Jeffery Renfro at the residence was reported at
5501 9th Street.

At 7:45 p.m. a possible intoxicated driver was reported at
1024 Main Street.

At 8:31 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2201 31st
Street.

At 9:09 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3800 McKinney Dr.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (9/27)Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 4:15 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 192 on
W. US 56 Highway.At 6:35 a.m. a driving complaint was reported at MM 201 on
W. US 56 Highway.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:55 a.m. an accident was reported at S. US 281 Highway
&amp; SE 50 Road.Cattle OutAt 7:56 a.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 30 Road
&amp; NE 100 Avenue in Ellinwood.Non-Injury AccidentAt 8:15 a.m. an accident was reported at E. US 56 Highway at
MM 215 in Ellinwood.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 8:42 a.m. convulsions/seizures were reported at 9th
&amp; Main.Cattle OutAt 12:55 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 50 Road
&amp; NE 110 Avenue in Ellinwood.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 3:30 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at N. US 281
Highway &amp; NE 50 Road.Animal ComplaintAt 5:12 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 94 SE 20
Road.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 7:23 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 201 Centre Street
in Pawnee Rock.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:59 p.m. an accident was reported at 989 E. US 56
Highway in Ellinwood.Cattle OutAt 8:07 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at NE 220 Road
in Dubuque. Great Bend Police
Department incident log (9/27)Traffic ArrestAt 12:20 a.m. an officer reported a traffic arrest of
Kristopher Kilgore at 3910 Cedar Park.Breathing ProblemsAt 1:33 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 301 Walnut Street.Abdominal Pain / ProblemsAt 2:56 a.m. EMS assistance was needed at 5926 Eisenhower
Avenue.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 6:35 a.m. BTSO requested assistance with a driving
complaint at MM 201 on W. US 56 Highway.Convulsions / SeizuresAt 8:40 a.m. convulsions / seizures were reported at 9th
&amp; Main.TheftAt 9:50 a.m. a fraudulent charge on her credit card was
reported at 4701 10th Street.Animal ComplaintAt 12:24 p.m. a report of wanting an officer to stand by
while they checked on a dog was made at 1107 5th Street.Traumatic InjuriesAt 2:21 p.m. ambulance assistance was needed at 2208 25th
Street.Non-Injury AccidentAt 3:45 p.m. an accident was reported at 10th
&amp; Washington.Criminal DamageAt 4:12 p.m. Lee Pace damaging property inside the store was
reported at Presto, 2337 Washington.Parking ComplaintAt 5:48 p.m. a parking complaint was reported at 1212 Baker.Burglary / In ProgressAt 5:49 p.m. a possible burglary was reported at 914
Harrison.At 6:42 p.m. Jeffery Renfro at the residence was reported at
5501 9th Street.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 7:45 p.m. a possible intoxicated driver was reported at
1024 Main Street.At 8:31 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at 2201 31st
Street.Sick PersonAt 9:09 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3800 McKinney Dr.

Cop Shop (9/27)

9/27 BOOKED: Kristopher Kilgore on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Tail Lights, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Tyler Partington on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Trespass, bond set at $1,000 C/S; and on four Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, total bond set at $2,500 C/S.

BOOKED: Brayden Clark on Barton County District Court warrant for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Brayden Clark on Barton County District Court warrant for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Kristopher Kilgore on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Tail Lights, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>9/27 BOOKED: Kristopher Kilgore on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Tail Lights, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Tyler Partington on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery and Criminal Trespass, bond set at $1,000 C/S; and on four Great Bend Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, total bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Brayden Clark on Barton County District Court warrant for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Brayden Clark on Barton County District Court warrant for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Kristopher Kilgore on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Driving While Suspended and No Tail Lights, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (9/27)

Even before Logan Burns became Great Bend Assistant City Administrator in November 2022 and started overseeing the code enforcement department, he never liked the
name. Burns felt code enforcement was an aggressive department name and gave
the wrong message to citizens. 

Burns announced code enforcement has been
renamed to property maintenance. The switch is a step toward more communication
and working with residents on potential abatements.


"We're going to be knocking on doors and communicating," said Burns. "We'll tell them what we're seeing and if they want us to take care of it. If it's something that they can't take care of then we can pass it on to Project Clean Sweep. If it's something as easy as a branch, we can throw that in the back of our truck. We have to change our image to these citizens. We're going to be more accountable and communicate with them."

Project Clean Sweep is an initiative from the Great Bend Police Department to
help identify citizens in the community that need help or do not have the ability
to take care of trash and refuse.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/30055aff-a01c-4bb8-90bd-41e1f51677bd">RELATED STORY: Great Bend looks for 'clean sweep' with new initiative</a>

Burns said while the city’s property maintenance staff will work with and be
reasonable with citizens, there is still a court appearance option for
lingering, habitual violators.

"There was one property from 2016, and we habitually mow it," said Burns. "They don't even attempt to mow it. I think we've mowed the property 19 times. Okay, you're going to have to go tell a judge why you're having the city do it. This also makes them accountable at the same time."

Procedure will have city staff knock on the door of houses with ordinance
violations. If no one is home, a placard will be placed on the doorknob describing
the violation. If 10 days pass with no contact from the property owner, a
certified letter will be sent to the address. Following another 10 days, the
city has the option of presenting the abatement to the city council.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629209725653.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostEven before Logan Burns became Great Bend Assistant City Administrator in November 2022 and started overseeing the code enforcement department, he never liked the
name. Burns felt code enforcement was an aggressive department name and gave
the wrong message to citizens. Burns announced code enforcement has been
renamed to property maintenance. The switch is a step toward more communication
and working with residents on potential abatements.
"We're going to be knocking on doors and communicating," said Burns. "We'll tell them what we're seeing and if they want us to take care of it. If it's something that they can't take care of then we can pass it on to Project Clean Sweep. If it's something as easy as a branch, we can throw that in the back of our truck. We have to change our image to these citizens. We're going to be more accountable and communicate with them."Project Clean Sweep is an initiative from the Great Bend Police Department to
help identify citizens in the community that need help or do not have the ability
to take care of trash and refuse.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/30055aff-a01c-4bb8-90bd-41e1f51677bd">RELATED STORY: Great Bend looks for 'clean sweep' with new initiative</a>Burns said while the city’s property maintenance staff will work with and be
reasonable with citizens, there is still a court appearance option for
lingering, habitual violators."There was one property from 2016, and we habitually mow it," said Burns. "They don't even attempt to mow it. I think we've mowed the property 19 times. Okay, you're going to have to go tell a judge why you're having the city do it. This also makes them accountable at the same time."Procedure will have city staff knock on the door of houses with ordinance
violations. If no one is home, a placard will be placed on the doorknob describing
the violation. If 10 days pass with no contact from the property owner, a
certified letter will be sent to the address. Following another 10 days, the
city has the option of presenting the abatement to the city council.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Great Bend’s code enforcement changing name to property maintenance 

Today Sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a south wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 68. South wind 16 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 22 mph increasing to 23 to 28 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 91. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.

Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. Breezy.

Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy.

Monday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.

Tuesday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.

Tuesday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Breezy.

Wednesday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 77.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a south wind 8 to 13 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 68. South wind 16 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.Friday Sunny, with a high near 93. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 22 mph increasing to 23 to 28 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68. Breezy, with a south wind 18 to 22 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 91. Breezy, with a south wind 17 to 26 mph, with gusts as high as 36 mph.Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. Breezy.Sunday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Breezy.Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.Monday Sunny, with a high near 88. Breezy.Monday Night A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 63.Tuesday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 80. Breezy.Tuesday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Breezy.Wednesday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 77.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday's weather

USD 428 Board of Education meeting Great Bend High School, 2027 Morton Sept. 28 - 12 p.m.

4. Building Report &nbsp; &nbsp;Principal Tim Friess and other staff members will share information regarding the academic programs and the school improvement efforts at Great Bend High School.

5. Approval of Resolution to Adopt Local Option Budget &nbsp; &nbsp;Regarding the budget approved at the 9/11/23 BOE meeting, Boards of education must also adopt a resolution granting authority to make a Local Option Percentage in the amount required when exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate. The USD 428 Board of Education authorizes a Local Option Percentage of 31.6 percent for the 2023-2024 year. A motion to adopt the 31.6 percent Local Option Budget is requested. Note: This resolution is a formality with no change to the budget presented and approved on 9/11/23.

6. Approval of Grants and Contributions

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683645022236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USD 428 Board of Education meeting Great Bend High School, 2027 Morton Sept. 28 - 12 p.m. AGENDA1. Call to Order / Roll Call2. Adoption of Agenda3. Recognition of Visitors4. Building Report &nbsp; &nbsp;Principal Tim Friess and other staff members will share information regarding the academic programs and the school improvement efforts at Great Bend High School.5. Approval of Resolution to Adopt Local Option Budget &nbsp; &nbsp;Regarding the budget approved at the 9/11/23 BOE meeting, Boards of education must also adopt a resolution granting authority to make a Local Option Percentage in the amount required when exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate. The USD 428 Board of Education authorizes a Local Option Percentage of 31.6 percent for the 2023-2024 year. A motion to adopt the 31.6 percent Local Option Budget is requested. Note: This resolution is a formality with no change to the budget presented and approved on 9/11/23.6. Approval of Grants and Contributions7. Adjournment

USD 428 school board luncheon agenda (9/28)

USD 428 Great Bend is hosting its first district-wide Family Engagement Night of the Year on Thursday, Sept. 28. District Public Information Director Andrea Bauer said this year's events will be a little different than last year.

"New this year, we're kind of transitioning our Family Engagement Nights to All In with Parents," she said. "We'll be encouraging families to be advocates for their children's education, and just learning a little bit more. With parent-teacher conferences right around the corner, helping them learn a little bit more about how to ask questions, how to be an advocate for their student."

Family Engagement Nights are typically held each quarter. Thursday's event will take place in the Great Bend Middle School commons at 1919 Harrison Street from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

"We want people to bring the whole family," Bauer said. "Parents will engage in some conversations and things, but we've got supervised activities for Pre-K through 12th grade, then refreshments for everyone."

"All In" is the district's theme for the 2023-24 school year, and encourages a mindset of collaboration and shared purpose. Bauer said surveys have been sent to families so the district can best suit those families with upcoming family engagement opportunities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695843455050.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostUSD 428 Great Bend is hosting its first district-wide Family Engagement Night of the Year on Thursday, Sept. 28. District Public Information Director Andrea Bauer said this year's events will be a little different than last year."New this year, we're kind of transitioning our Family Engagement Nights to All In with Parents," she said. "We'll be encouraging families to be advocates for their children's education, and just learning a little bit more. With parent-teacher conferences right around the corner, helping them learn a little bit more about how to ask questions, how to be an advocate for their student."Family Engagement Nights are typically held each quarter. Thursday's event will take place in the Great Bend Middle School commons at 1919 Harrison Street from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m."We want people to bring the whole family," Bauer said. "Parents will engage in some conversations and things, but we've got supervised activities for Pre-K through 12th grade, then refreshments for everyone.""All In" is the district's theme for the 2023-24 school year, and encourages a mindset of collaboration and shared purpose. Bauer said surveys have been sent to families so the district can best suit those families with upcoming family engagement opportunities.

USD 428 hosting new Family Engagement Night at GBMS 

The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce invites their members and public to attend this week’s Chamber Coffee hosted by Sunflower Diversified Services Early Education Center, located at 1312 Patton Rd. Great Bend. Doors open at 9 a.m. and the program starts at 9:30 a.m. with door prizes to conclude the coffee hour.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592426026608.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce invites their members and public to attend this week’s Chamber Coffee hosted by Sunflower Diversified Services Early Education Center, located at 1312 Patton Rd. Great Bend. Doors open at 9 a.m. and the program starts at 9:30 a.m. with door prizes to conclude the coffee hour.

Great Bend Chamber coffee hour (9/28)

Halloween officially falls on a Tuesday this year. No worries, there will be plenty of weekend opportunities to trick or treat in the Great Bend area. Barton County churches and businesses are again sponsoring the Community Trunk or Treat at Jack Kilby Square in downtown Great Bend on Saturday, Oct. 28. First Christian Church Youth and Associate Minister Joseph Smeragliuolo explains.

"The Trunk or Treat is basically just a safe option for your kids and family to go around and trick or treat," he said. "We decorate the trunks of our cars and we have volunteers that are passing out candy. I believe last year, I think we had almost 1,000 people come through, which was pretty awesome."

There are three ways for volunteers or businesses to participate: they can be a trunk, donate cash to purchase candy for a trunk, or sponsor a trunk. Smeragliuolo said sponsoring a trunk for $50 helps provide candy for that trunk and is a good way for businesses off the Main Street corridor to get involved. Those businesses will be recognized with magnetic signs attached to the sponsored trunk. The kids can enjoy the candy and those with trunks can enjoy some competition.

"Part of the trunk decorating is a trunk decorating contest," said Smeragliuolo. "First place gets a $100 chamber gift certificate, second gets a $50 one, and third gets a $25 one. We have judges that go around and judge the trunks."

Trunk or Treat begins at 11 a.m. on Oct. 28. Smeragliuolo said cash donations are always accepted, but the final day to officially register is Monday, Oct. 23. There were approximately 45 trunks last year, including several classic cars represented by the Shifters of Central Kansas Car Club. <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd75PcjUYfrq5FFr5qRnfiwYYmUyYAicCJZRWRb6lW7dY1nwg/viewform">CLICK HERE</a> to register.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695053975601.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostHalloween officially falls on a Tuesday this year. No worries, there will be plenty of weekend opportunities to trick or treat in the Great Bend area. Barton County churches and businesses are again sponsoring the Community Trunk or Treat at Jack Kilby Square in downtown Great Bend on Saturday, Oct. 28. First Christian Church Youth and Associate Minister Joseph Smeragliuolo explains."The Trunk or Treat is basically just a safe option for your kids and family to go around and trick or treat," he said. "We decorate the trunks of our cars and we have volunteers that are passing out candy. I believe last year, I think we had almost 1,000 people come through, which was pretty awesome."There are three ways for volunteers or businesses to participate: they can be a trunk, donate cash to purchase candy for a trunk, or sponsor a trunk. Smeragliuolo said sponsoring a trunk for $50 helps provide candy for that trunk and is a good way for businesses off the Main Street corridor to get involved. Those businesses will be recognized with magnetic signs attached to the sponsored trunk. The kids can enjoy the candy and those with trunks can enjoy some competition."Part of the trunk decorating is a trunk decorating contest," said Smeragliuolo. "First place gets a $100 chamber gift certificate, second gets a $50 one, and third gets a $25 one. We have judges that go around and judge the trunks."Trunk or Treat begins at 11 a.m. on Oct. 28. Smeragliuolo said cash donations are always accepted, but the final day to officially register is Monday, Oct. 23. There were approximately 45 trunks last year, including several classic cars represented by the Shifters of Central Kansas Car Club. <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd75PcjUYfrq5FFr5qRnfiwYYmUyYAicCJZRWRb6lW7dY1nwg/viewform">CLICK HERE</a> to register.

Volunteers wanted for Trunk or Treat event in Great Bend on Oct. 28

This is the third year that our K-State Research &amp; Extension Small Grains and Forage specialist Romulo Lollato has put an intensive wheat management study in Barton County. I believe there are 7 of them located around the state. The results are in on the variety x population portion of the plot below.

Barton County Wheat Variety x Population Study – 2023 Planted; Sept. 28, 2022 Location: N. of Hoisington on Galatia blacktop, 1 mile W. @ intersection of NW 190 Rd. &amp; NW 50th Ave. Cooperator: Tim Maier Yields corrected to 13% moisture

This is the third year that our K-State Research &amp; Extension Small Grains and Forage specialist Romulo Lollato has put an intensive wheat management study in Barton County. I believe there are 7 of them located around the state. The results are in on the variety x population portion of the plot below.Barton County Wheat Variety x Population Study – 2023 Planted; Sept. 28, 2022 Location: N. of Hoisington on Galatia blacktop, 1 mile W. @ intersection of NW 190 Rd. &amp; NW 50th Ave. Cooperator: Tim Maier Yields corrected to 13% moisture<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695675507417.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Barton Co. Wheat Variety x Population Study results

Barton County will pay a maximum of $45,000 for the upgrade of several servers vital to county functions. Information Technology Director Dereck Hollingshead presented to the Barton County Commission Tuesday morning before moving forward on a bid from SHI.

"We have seven servers that are needing to have some work done to them," he said. "Three have outstanding or older operating systems that need to be upgraded, then the rest are running out of space."

Hollingshead said SHI submitted the lone full bid for the project, which is just an estimate at this time. Hollingshead expects additional costs for software support, including from INTERPOL on the law enforcement side, but all of those costs will remain under $45,000 total. All the servers impacted are housed inside the Barton County Communications facility.

"911 is where our internet comes in," said Hollingshead. "They have a backup generator that is Instant On so, in the event we have an emergency, 911 is without any interruption. That's what made moving over here a little easier for our department as well, because we did not move servers."

Microsoft will stop making software updates and patches on the old equipment in October, elevating security risks on those servers. The Ellinwood and Great Bend police departments will reimburse the county for a portion of the costs associated with law enforcement software updates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695749066040.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostBarton County will pay a maximum of $45,000 for the upgrade of several servers vital to county functions. Information Technology Director Dereck Hollingshead presented to the Barton County Commission Tuesday morning before moving forward on a bid from SHI."We have seven servers that are needing to have some work done to them," he said. "Three have outstanding or older operating systems that need to be upgraded, then the rest are running out of space."Hollingshead said SHI submitted the lone full bid for the project, which is just an estimate at this time. Hollingshead expects additional costs for software support, including from INTERPOL on the law enforcement side, but all of those costs will remain under $45,000 total. All the servers impacted are housed inside the Barton County Communications facility."911 is where our internet comes in," said Hollingshead. "They have a backup generator that is Instant On so, in the event we have an emergency, 911 is without any interruption. That's what made moving over here a little easier for our department as well, because we did not move servers."Microsoft will stop making software updates and patches on the old equipment in October, elevating security risks on those servers. The Ellinwood and Great Bend police departments will reimburse the county for a portion of the costs associated with law enforcement software updates.

Barton Co. to spend no more than $45K on server updates

When the Sonoco Paper plant in Hutchinson closed this past March, it
caused many local recycling companies to scramble to find other facilities to
accept their recyclables. Sunflower Diversified Services, in Great Bend, was
one of those companies left scrambling. 

In August, the Sunflower Recycling
Center received a $23,254 grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment
to assist with solid waste reduction. Sunflower CEO Shelby Zuniga said the
grant will be used to construct a new building at their recycling plant to be
used for storage.


"We have to have some storage room to keep materials dry and secure until we can ship those out," said Zuniga. "We were approved for a grant for a building. It'll be a cheap and effective building to keep things dry."

With the Sonoco Paper plant shutting down, Sunflower is now forced to transfer their
recycling items further out.
The solid waste reduction grants were awarded to 14 different cities.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692123131227.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen the Sonoco Paper plant in Hutchinson closed this past March, it
caused many local recycling companies to scramble to find other facilities to
accept their recyclables. Sunflower Diversified Services, in Great Bend, was
one of those companies left scrambling. In August, the Sunflower Recycling
Center received a $23,254 grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment
to assist with solid waste reduction. Sunflower CEO Shelby Zuniga said the
grant will be used to construct a new building at their recycling plant to be
used for storage.
"We have to have some storage room to keep materials dry and secure until we can ship those out," said Zuniga. "We were approved for a grant for a building. It'll be a cheap and effective building to keep things dry."With the Sonoco Paper plant shutting down, Sunflower is now forced to transfer their
recycling items further out.
The solid waste reduction grants were awarded to 14 different cities.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sunflower Diversified to add storage building at recycling plant

Christi Herber has been serving as the executive director for the Kans
for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation for just over three years. A nice fundraising
addition during her tenure has been the creation of the Kans for Kids Benefit
Car Show, now entering its second year. 

Herber said the idea was presented to Kans
for Kids by Club 1 Fitness.


"Joe Trimmer and Chris Berger from Club 1 told us they would like to do a car show and donate the money to Kans for Kids," said Herber. "It just blossomed from there. After the first one, they said they wanted to do it again next year."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695748049232.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostChristi Herber has been serving as the executive director for the Kans
for Kids Fighting Cancer Foundation for just over three years. A nice fundraising
addition during her tenure has been the creation of the Kans for Kids Benefit
Car Show, now entering its second year. Herber said the idea was presented to Kans
for Kids by Club 1 Fitness.
"Joe Trimmer and Chris Berger from Club 1 told us they would like to do a car show and donate the money to Kans for Kids," said Herber. "It just blossomed from there. After the first one, they said they wanted to do it again next year."The Car Show will take place Saturday, Sept. 30 at 10 a.m. at
Club 1, 3806 Broadway in Great Bend. Along with the show, there will be food
and a silent auction.
Kans for Kids provides funding for families with children who are living with
cancer and creates public awareness of childhood cancer.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;