Congratulations to the first "Make a Difference" winner Tyson Beck, a student at Lincoln Elementary School in Hoisington.&nbsp;

Tyson said, "I can make a difference by helping my parents after school by washing the dishes."&nbsp;

Barton County elementary students have an opportunity to "Make a Difference" and win. 

Enter now at&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/05700272-7511-4463-9cf5-3b555da4ca82" target="_blank">https://greatbendpost.com/posts/05700272-7511-4463-9cf5-3b555da4ca82</a>

The next winner will be announced Oct. 9.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215654118.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to the first "Make a Difference" winner Tyson Beck, a student at Lincoln Elementary School in Hoisington.&nbsp;Tyson said, "I can make a difference by helping my parents after school by washing the dishes."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215689005.jpeg" alt="Eagle Radio's Shannon Towns poses with this year's first "Make a Difference" winner Tyson Beck from Hoisington." />
 <figcaption>Eagle Radio's Shannon Towns poses with this year's first "Make a Difference" winner Tyson Beck from Hoisington.</figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County elementary students have an opportunity to "Make a Difference" and win. Enter now at&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/05700272-7511-4463-9cf5-3b555da4ca82" target="_blank">https://greatbendpost.com/posts/05700272-7511-4463-9cf5-3b555da4ca82</a>The next winner will be announced Oct. 9.

First 'Make a Difference' winner is Tyson Beck from Hoisington

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

The City of Great Bend chose recent familiarity over locality Monday
night when approving a firm to conduct their audits for the next three years.


Adams Brown, an accounting firm headquartered in Great Bend, used to conduct
the city’s audits until fiscal year 2020. The city switched over to Gordon CPA,
based in Lawrence, partially because of Adams Brown's indirect connection with a lawsuit
filed against the city from homeowners in the Amber Meadows subdivision.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7e35c43f-f7bf-4b53-afa1-1490ea78f009">RELATED STORY: Great Bend changes auditor for the next three years</a>

Great
Bend City Council member Jolene Biggs felt the familiarity with Gordon CPA was
important despite Adams Brown providing lower bids.


"Personally, I'd like to see it stay with Gordon CPA just to make it easier for them (Great Bend's financial department)," said Biggs. "I do recall that Adams Brown chose not to continue to bid after the lawsuit. They've now come back with a bid, but I would be in favor of Gordon CPA."

The lawsuit stemmed from residents believing the city was responsible for the
homeowners’ houses flooding following the large amounts of rain the area received
in spring 2019. Last April, the City of Great Bend approved a general release
that freed the city from any future claims.

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/abe00303-5522-4398-8369-5bfdf555ac15">RELATED STORY: Claims released against Great Bend from residents' lawsuit for flooding</a>

The city council voted 4-2 in favor of Gordan CPA to handle the next three
audits. City Clerk Shawna Schafer said the bid includes a single audit for
federal funds.


"I do anticipate us having a single audit each year," said Schafer. "A single audit is if you spend more than $750,000 in federal funds. The reason why I anticipate a single audit is because we have not hardly touched our ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds. They don't audit that until we spend it."

The approved audit bid from Gordon CPA for fiscal years 2023, 2024 and 2025 are
$28,800, $29,715 and $30,650 respectively. The bid from Adams Brown was
$26,000, $26,450 and $26,900.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215169788.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City of Great Bend chose recent familiarity over locality Monday
night when approving a firm to conduct their audits for the next three years.
Adams Brown, an accounting firm headquartered in Great Bend, used to conduct
the city’s audits until fiscal year 2020. The city switched over to Gordon CPA,
based in Lawrence, partially because of Adams Brown's indirect connection with a lawsuit
filed against the city from homeowners in the Amber Meadows subdivision.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/7e35c43f-f7bf-4b53-afa1-1490ea78f009">RELATED STORY: Great Bend changes auditor for the next three years</a>Great
Bend City Council member Jolene Biggs felt the familiarity with Gordon CPA was
important despite Adams Brown providing lower bids.
"Personally, I'd like to see it stay with Gordon CPA just to make it easier for them (Great Bend's financial department)," said Biggs. "I do recall that Adams Brown chose not to continue to bid after the lawsuit. They've now come back with a bid, but I would be in favor of Gordon CPA."The lawsuit stemmed from residents believing the city was responsible for the
homeowners’ houses flooding following the large amounts of rain the area received
in spring 2019. Last April, the City of Great Bend approved a general release
that freed the city from any future claims.<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/abe00303-5522-4398-8369-5bfdf555ac15">RELATED STORY: Claims released against Great Bend from residents' lawsuit for flooding</a>The city council voted 4-2 in favor of Gordan CPA to handle the next three
audits. City Clerk Shawna Schafer said the bid includes a single audit for
federal funds.
"I do anticipate us having a single audit each year," said Schafer. "A single audit is if you spend more than $750,000 in federal funds. The reason why I anticipate a single audit is because we have not hardly touched our ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds. They don't audit that until we spend it."The approved audit bid from Gordon CPA for fiscal years 2023, 2024 and 2025 are
$28,800, $29,715 and $30,650 respectively. The bid from Adams Brown was
$26,000, $26,450 and $26,900.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Familiarity trumps local accounting firm to conduct Great Bend’s audit

RUSH COUNTY —Some residents in Rush County got a good look at a landspout early Tuesday evening as some severe storms popped up in the region.

The brief landspout was located northwest of Liebenthal just after 6 p.m.,&nbsp;according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.&nbsp;

A second land spout was reported near Nekoma also about 6 p.m.

Tuesday's very isolated storms included heavy rainfall. Nearly 1.5 inches fell near Otis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695220567088.jpeg" alt="Landspout near Liebenthal early Tuesday evening. Photo courtesy Kate Wary." />
 <figcaption>Landspout near Liebenthal early Tuesday evening. Photo courtesy Kate Wary.</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSH COUNTY —Some residents in Rush County got a good look at a landspout early Tuesday evening as some severe storms popped up in the region.The brief landspout was located northwest of Liebenthal just after 6 p.m.,&nbsp;according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.&nbsp;A second land spout was reported near Nekoma also about 6 p.m.Tuesday's very isolated storms included heavy rainfall. Nearly 1.5 inches fell near Otis.

Land spout seen in Rush County during isolated storms

Barton County Sheriff’s Office incident log (9/19)


At 7:36 a.m. an accident was reported at 859 NW 20 Avenue in Hoisington.



At 7:50 a.m. breathing problems were reported at 1007 NW 220 Road.



At 1:12 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 4 NW 30 Road.



At 3:02 p.m. a fire was reported at NE 40 Road &amp; NE 140 Avenue in
Ellinwood.

At 7:37 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at SE 70 Road
&amp; S. US 281 Highway.

Great Bend Police Department incident log (9/19)

At 1 a.m. theft and depuration of property was reported at
3907 Broadway.

At 9:51 a.m. a report of smelling something burning was made
at 4101 10th Street.

At 10:24 a.m. a dog bit was reported at 2900 24th
Street.

At 2:57 p.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 4700
block of Broadway Avenue.

At 3:47 p.m. a trailer parked in the roadway not hooked up
to a vehicle was reported at 3115 Morton.

At 7:33 p.m. an accident was reported at 1315 10th
Street.

At 8:44 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2925 Gano
Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s Office incident log (9/19)

Non-Injury Accident

At 7:36 a.m. an accident was reported at 859 NW 20 Avenue in Hoisington.

Breathing Problems

At 7:50 a.m. breathing problems were reported at 1007 NW 220 Road.

At 1:12 p.m. breathing problems were reported at 4 NW 30 Road.

Fire

At 3:02 p.m. a fire was reported at NE 40 Road &amp; NE 140 Avenue in
Ellinwood.Driving / Driver ComplaintAt 7:37 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at SE 70 Road
&amp; S. US 281 Highway.Great Bend Police Department incident log (9/19)TheftAt 1 a.m. theft and depuration of property was reported at
3907 Broadway.Structure FireAt 9:51 a.m. a report of smelling something burning was made
at 4101 10th Street.Animal ComplaintAt 10:24 a.m. a dog bit was reported at 2900 24th
Street.Parking ComplaintAt 2:57 p.m. a parking complaint was reported in the 4700
block of Broadway Avenue.Parking ComplaintAt 3:47 p.m. a trailer parked in the roadway not hooked up
to a vehicle was reported at 3115 Morton.Non-Injury AccidentAt 7:33 p.m. an accident was reported at 1315 10th
Street.Animal ComplaintAt 8:44 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 2925 Gano
Street.

Cop Shop (9/19)

9/19 BOOKED: Donald Watkins on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal Use of a Weapon, Improper Stop or Signal, and Illegal Transportation of Alcohol, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jason Battaglear, Jr., on five Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $40,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Tyler Lynd on Barton County District warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.

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

BOOKED: Jesus Balderrama on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Omar Balderrama on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Donald Watkins on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal Use of a Weapon, Improper Stop or Signal, and Illegal Transportation of Alcohol, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Omar Balderrama on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, 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>9/19 BOOKED: Donald Watkins on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal Use of a Weapon, Improper Stop or Signal, and Illegal Transportation of Alcohol, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jason Battaglear, Jr., on five Barton County District Court warrants for Probation Violation, total bond set at $40,000 C/S.BOOKED: Tyler Lynd on Barton County District warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set.BOOKED: Wesley Phillips on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Jesus Balderrama on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Omar Balderrama on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Donald Watkins on Barton County District Court warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal Use of a Weapon, Improper Stop or Signal, and Illegal Transportation of Alcohol, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Omar Balderrama on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (9/19)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

In March, volunteers in Great Bend packed more than 51,000 meals for the Orphan Grain Train. Those meals, consisting of soy, rice, dehydrated vegetables, and enriched chicken flavoring were ultimately shipped overseas. Mark Ball with Lasting Life Ministries and Buzz Birney with Kingdom Campus are hosting another Mercy Meal event at Heartland Community Church in Great Bend on Saturday, Sept. 30. Coordinator Cindy Dayton said more volunteers are needed.

"The two sessions that are still open are 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.," she said. "It's only a volunteer job for about an hour and a half, so it's not a real big deal."

The goal this time is 81,000 meals, and those meals will largely stay local to feed the hungry in Great Bend. Six people can be fed with each prepared bag of food, so the goal is to make 13,500 bags that Birney will help distribute to those in need. 

"We still need about 90 volunteers," Dayton said. "It takes almost 400 volunteers to do what we're going to do."

Volunteering to put together the meals has been a good team-building event in the past, with teams from the Great Bend Rec Center, Great Bend High School National Honor Society, and South African students from Barton Community College helping out. Dayton said players from the GBHS football team and BCC swim team have already signed up.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to approximately 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30, at Heartland Community Church, located at 4907 10th Street in Great Bend. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Dayton by calling (620) 639-1891, or Birney by calling (620) 397-3325.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679931329667.jpeg" alt="Volunteers packed 51,000 meals at Heartland Community Church in March. On Sept. 30, volunteers will pack 81,000 more meals that will feed the needy locally." />
 <figcaption>Volunteers packed 51,000 meals at Heartland Community Church in March. On Sept. 30, volunteers will pack 81,000 more meals that will feed the needy locally.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostIn March, volunteers in Great Bend packed more than 51,000 meals for the Orphan Grain Train. Those meals, consisting of soy, rice, dehydrated vegetables, and enriched chicken flavoring were ultimately shipped overseas. Mark Ball with Lasting Life Ministries and Buzz Birney with Kingdom Campus are hosting another Mercy Meal event at Heartland Community Church in Great Bend on Saturday, Sept. 30. Coordinator Cindy Dayton said more volunteers are needed."The two sessions that are still open are 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.," she said. "It's only a volunteer job for about an hour and a half, so it's not a real big deal."The goal this time is 81,000 meals, and those meals will largely stay local to feed the hungry in Great Bend. Six people can be fed with each prepared bag of food, so the goal is to make 13,500 bags that Birney will help distribute to those in need. "We still need about 90 volunteers," Dayton said. "It takes almost 400 volunteers to do what we're going to do."Volunteering to put together the meals has been a good team-building event in the past, with teams from the Great Bend Rec Center, Great Bend High School National Honor Society, and South African students from Barton Community College helping out. Dayton said players from the GBHS football team and BCC swim team have already signed up.The event will take place from 9 a.m. to approximately 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30, at Heartland Community Church, located at 4907 10th Street in Great Bend. Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Dayton by calling (620) 639-1891, or Birney by calling (620) 397-3325.

Volunteers still needed to make meals for the hungry in Great Bend

Today Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 84. South southeast wind 6 to 9 mph.

Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 61. Southeast wind 7 to 9 mph.

Thursday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 82. Southeast wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Thursday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62. South-southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 82. South wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.

Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 80.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 54.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 80.

Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55.

Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 79.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 84. South southeast wind 6 to 9 mph.Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 61. Southeast wind 7 to 9 mph.Thursday A 30-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 82. Southeast wind 8 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Thursday Night A 50-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62. South-southeast wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 82. South wind 10 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 82.Saturday Night A 20-percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 80.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 54.Monday Sunny, with a high near 80.Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 55.Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 79.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wednesday's weather

News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 19 John P. Tretbar

U.S. crude reaches its highest price point since November of 2022. WTI was trading over $92 per barrel Tuesday. London Brent was over $95. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson started the week at $81 a barrel, adding half a dollar Friday to reach a ten-month high.

Kansas regulators okayed 37 new drilling locations last week, 879 so far this year. That's 293 permits behind last year at this time. There are 20 new permits in Western Kansas, including five in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported 25 newly-completed wells across the state, including one in Barton County and one in Ellis County. There are fourteen in eastern Kansas and eleven west of Wichita. That's 1,215 well-completions so far this year, which is up 64 wells from the total a year ago.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged from last week, with 12 active rigs east of Wichita and 24 in the western half of the state. The totals are down 16% from a month ago and down 39% from last year at this time. Drilling was underway Friday on one lease in Barton County, three in Ellis County and one in Stafford County.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was nine wells higher (eight gas and two oil). The tally in Texas was up seven rigs while New Mexico was down two.

Weekly crude production is within a few wildcat strikes of the all-time record. U.S. operators pumped 12.92 million barrels per day in the week through September 8. That's an increase of more than 100,000 barrels per day. This marks only the 11th time operators have topped 12.9 million barrels per day.

U.S. crude inventories increased by four million barrels last week but remain at 15-month lows. The government's weekly tally of over 420 million barrels marks the first increase in U.S. stockpiles in five weeks. But the total is the lowest since June 24th of 2022, and is two percent below the five-year seasonal average.

EIA reports U.S. crude imports increased 812,000 barrels per day to an average of 7.6 million barrels per day last week. The four-week average is 13% higher than a year ago.

Kansas production outpaces last year, according to the latest data from the Kansas Geological Survey. Total statewide output in May reached 11.6 million barrels, or 77,138 barrels per day. That's up 627 barrels per day from a year ago. Output in Barton County averaged 4,117 barrel per day. Ellis County pumped 6,025 barrel per day. Russell County was over 3,700 barrels per day. Each marked a slight increase year over year. Stafford County dropped to 2,484 barrels per day, down from a year ago by 63 barrels per day.

North Dakota improved crude production to 1,180,611 barrels per day in July, up more than 14-thousand barrels per day over updated June totals. The Department of Mineral Resources said operators managed the best gas-capture rate ever at 96%. They also raised natural-gas production to another all-time high. The state has come a long way from a decade ago, when that stretch of the oil patch was visible from space because of natural gas flaring. In 2014, regulators established 74% as the first of several annual goals for increasing natural gas capture. Last week the North Dakota Petroleum Council, a trade association, pointed to advances in technology, improved coordination, and the build-out of new gas infrastructure, for the dramatic turnaround in flaring and venting statistics.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News from the Oil Patch, Sep. 19 John P. TretbarU.S. crude reaches its highest price point since November of 2022. WTI was trading over $92 per barrel Tuesday. London Brent was over $95. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson started the week at $81 a barrel, adding half a dollar Friday to reach a ten-month high.Kansas regulators okayed 37 new drilling locations last week, 879 so far this year. That's 293 permits behind last year at this time. There are 20 new permits in Western Kansas, including five in Ellis County and one in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported 25 newly-completed wells across the state, including one in Barton County and one in Ellis County. There are fourteen in eastern Kansas and eleven west of Wichita. That's 1,215 well-completions so far this year, which is up 64 wells from the total a year ago.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged from last week, with 12 active rigs east of Wichita and 24 in the western half of the state. The totals are down 16% from a month ago and down 39% from last year at this time. Drilling was underway Friday on one lease in Barton County, three in Ellis County and one in Stafford County.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was nine wells higher (eight gas and two oil). The tally in Texas was up seven rigs while New Mexico was down two.Weekly crude production is within a few wildcat strikes of the all-time record. U.S. operators pumped 12.92 million barrels per day in the week through September 8. That's an increase of more than 100,000 barrels per day. This marks only the 11th time operators have topped 12.9 million barrels per day.U.S. crude inventories increased by four million barrels last week but remain at 15-month lows. The government's weekly tally of over 420 million barrels marks the first increase in U.S. stockpiles in five weeks. But the total is the lowest since June 24th of 2022, and is two percent below the five-year seasonal average.EIA reports U.S. crude imports increased 812,000 barrels per day to an average of 7.6 million barrels per day last week. The four-week average is 13% higher than a year ago.Kansas production outpaces last year, according to the latest data from the Kansas Geological Survey. Total statewide output in May reached 11.6 million barrels, or 77,138 barrels per day. That's up 627 barrels per day from a year ago. Output in Barton County averaged 4,117 barrel per day. Ellis County pumped 6,025 barrel per day. Russell County was over 3,700 barrels per day. Each marked a slight increase year over year. Stafford County dropped to 2,484 barrels per day, down from a year ago by 63 barrels per day.North Dakota improved crude production to 1,180,611 barrels per day in July, up more than 14-thousand barrels per day over updated June totals. The Department of Mineral Resources said operators managed the best gas-capture rate ever at 96%. They also raised natural-gas production to another all-time high. The state has come a long way from a decade ago, when that stretch of the oil patch was visible from space because of natural gas flaring. In 2014, regulators established 74% as the first of several annual goals for increasing natural gas capture. Last week the North Dakota Petroleum Council, a trade association, pointed to advances in technology, improved coordination, and the build-out of new gas infrastructure, for the dramatic turnaround in flaring and venting statistics.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: U.S. approaches production record

Great Bend Principal: Expectations for grade school kids at games

Story by Joe Vinduska Photo by Courtney Liebl

Barton Community College is excited to announce its groundbreaking Music Accompaniment Program, which empowers aspiring musicians to enter the workforce in the music industry after only two years of dedicated study, which will be led by world-renowned pianist and Barton Keyboard Instructor Dr. Alejandro Avila.

Avila’s love of music and enthusiasm for mentoring is what brought this program to life. He said a main goal was to create a curriculum designed to be both diverse and enriching.

“I often think about all of the mentors I have had throughout my career, and I wanted to be able to offer a program where I could share all of the things I learned from them over the years but transformed into a useful and practical package that can help any music student find a career that they are passionate about,” he said.

Avila said there are multiple career paths for an accompanist and Barton’s program touches on them with enhanced focus so that students are competent and capable no matter what path they choose to take.

“We cater to a wide array of musical genres and contexts,” he said. “Students learn hymn interpretation and improvisation techniques suitable for church services, practical knowledge of musical theatre, and other insights to help prepare them for the grand stages across the country up to and including Broadway.”

The education sector is another large employer of accompanists and Avila said the program is designed to get students up to speed to succeed in these jobs as well.

“Understanding the nuances between vocal and instrumental music is crucial for aspiring accompanists,” he said. “Barton’s program equips students with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in these roles, enhancing their versatility and employability.”

Avila said a focus on opera and orchestra will also be part of the curriculum.

“Students will acquire an understanding of language diction in Italian, French, and German, which is vital for a future opera coach,” he said. “On the orchestra side, we will teach how to replicate an orchestra when reducing a score for musical rehearsals and concerts and of course many other things related to this unique musical setting.”

Avila said like all of Barton’s classes, transferability is key for courses in this program.

“Many music students wish to pursue additional education to really master their craft, and we want to provide a seamless transition for those students,” he said. “Credits earned in this program are transferable to any four-year music program across the United States. This flexibility opens doors to countless opportunities for further education and specialization in music.”

For more information or to enroll, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://playpiano.bartonccc.edu/">playpiano.bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694633978628.jpeg" alt="Barton Keyboard Instructor Dr. Alejandro Avila (right) plays alongside a student at a recital last spring on the Barton Campus." />
 <figcaption>Barton Keyboard Instructor Dr. Alejandro Avila (right) plays alongside a student at a recital last spring on the Barton Campus.</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Joe Vinduska Photo by Courtney LieblBarton Community College is excited to announce its groundbreaking Music Accompaniment Program, which empowers aspiring musicians to enter the workforce in the music industry after only two years of dedicated study, which will be led by world-renowned pianist and Barton Keyboard Instructor Dr. Alejandro Avila.Avila’s love of music and enthusiasm for mentoring is what brought this program to life. He said a main goal was to create a curriculum designed to be both diverse and enriching.“I often think about all of the mentors I have had throughout my career, and I wanted to be able to offer a program where I could share all of the things I learned from them over the years but transformed into a useful and practical package that can help any music student find a career that they are passionate about,” he said.Avila said there are multiple career paths for an accompanist and Barton’s program touches on them with enhanced focus so that students are competent and capable no matter what path they choose to take.“We cater to a wide array of musical genres and contexts,” he said. “Students learn hymn interpretation and improvisation techniques suitable for church services, practical knowledge of musical theatre, and other insights to help prepare them for the grand stages across the country up to and including Broadway.”The education sector is another large employer of accompanists and Avila said the program is designed to get students up to speed to succeed in these jobs as well.“Understanding the nuances between vocal and instrumental music is crucial for aspiring accompanists,” he said. “Barton’s program equips students with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in these roles, enhancing their versatility and employability.”Avila said a focus on opera and orchestra will also be part of the curriculum.“Students will acquire an understanding of language diction in Italian, French, and German, which is vital for a future opera coach,” he said. “On the orchestra side, we will teach how to replicate an orchestra when reducing a score for musical rehearsals and concerts and of course many other things related to this unique musical setting.”Avila said like all of Barton’s classes, transferability is key for courses in this program.“Many music students wish to pursue additional education to really master their craft, and we want to provide a seamless transition for those students,” he said. “Credits earned in this program are transferable to any four-year music program across the United States. This flexibility opens doors to countless opportunities for further education and specialization in music.”For more information or to enroll, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://playpiano.bartonccc.edu/">playpiano.bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton Community College to offer Music Accompaniment Program

Growing up in Lawrence, Jay Tusten naturally attended the University of
Kansas where he earned a Masters of Audiology, which was his beginning into the
medical field. 

Tusten would eventually work his way into healthcare
administration with a couple of stops out of Kansas, but most recently spent
more than a decade in Johnson and Ulysses, Kansas as a hospital CEO. Looking to
get closer to family, Tusten found out about the open CEO position at Clara
Barton Medical Center in Hoisington.


"I had been looking for a good opportunity to get closer to family in Denver or family in Lawrence," said Tusten. "I have some older family in Lawrence, so maybe a little more need to be closer there. When the opportunity came up, Clara Barton was close to the Interstate I-70 corridor. It's great. Great place."

One of Tusten’s four daughters had a procedure at Clara Barton while his family
was living in Pratt, so he’s been aware of the hospital for a while but a lot
of changes have taken place since.


"I was really impressed when I first toured Clara Barton," said Tusten. "I knew that's where I wanted to be. Everybody was fantastic to talk to. I could tell the culture was good. The growth the place has experienced has been fantastic. That just doesn't happen by accident. I knew that's what I wanted to be a part of."

Tusten replaces Jim Blackwell as CEO after Blackwell resigned this past May to
accept a consulting position with Great Plains Health Alliance.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693499545851.jpeg" alt="Jay Tusten became the new CEO at Clara Barton Medical Center." />
 <figcaption>Jay Tusten became the new CEO at Clara Barton Medical Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostGrowing up in Lawrence, Jay Tusten naturally attended the University of
Kansas where he earned a Masters of Audiology, which was his beginning into the
medical field. Tusten would eventually work his way into healthcare
administration with a couple of stops out of Kansas, but most recently spent
more than a decade in Johnson and Ulysses, Kansas as a hospital CEO. Looking to
get closer to family, Tusten found out about the open CEO position at Clara
Barton Medical Center in Hoisington.
"I had been looking for a good opportunity to get closer to family in Denver or family in Lawrence," said Tusten. "I have some older family in Lawrence, so maybe a little more need to be closer there. When the opportunity came up, Clara Barton was close to the Interstate I-70 corridor. It's great. Great place."One of Tusten’s four daughters had a procedure at Clara Barton while his family
was living in Pratt, so he’s been aware of the hospital for a while but a lot
of changes have taken place since.
"I was really impressed when I first toured Clara Barton," said Tusten. "I knew that's where I wanted to be. Everybody was fantastic to talk to. I could tell the culture was good. The growth the place has experienced has been fantastic. That just doesn't happen by accident. I knew that's what I wanted to be a part of."Tusten replaces Jim Blackwell as CEO after Blackwell resigned this past May to
accept a consulting position with Great Plains Health Alliance.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

New Clara Barton CEO: ‘I know this is where I want to be’

When the Great Bend Police Department pulls someone over for a Driving
Under the Influence (DUI) offense and the driver refuses to participate in a
breathalyzer, they are required to go to the hospital and draw blood pursuant
to warrants. 

The University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend Campus charges
the police department for the procedure, but Great Bend City Attorney Allen
Glendenning said an ordinance can change that.


"Up until now, that cost has been borne by the police department," said Glendenning. "This ordinance will allow those costs to be tacked on to the sentence or diversion agreement in the DUI cases. This will let it be borne by the people who require it to be incurred."

The Great Bend City Council voted 6-0 to adopt an ordinance regulating the
costs of the blood draws to be recoverable in municipal court cases. Kansas
statutes already require that sentences in DUI cases include a laboratory fee
to defray the costs of testing the samples at the KBI laboratory.


Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark said a new agreement with the hospital
will charge just under $100 for the blood draws.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584630458803.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen the Great Bend Police Department pulls someone over for a Driving
Under the Influence (DUI) offense and the driver refuses to participate in a
breathalyzer, they are required to go to the hospital and draw blood pursuant
to warrants. The University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend Campus charges
the police department for the procedure, but Great Bend City Attorney Allen
Glendenning said an ordinance can change that.
"Up until now, that cost has been borne by the police department," said Glendenning. "This ordinance will allow those costs to be tacked on to the sentence or diversion agreement in the DUI cases. This will let it be borne by the people who require it to be incurred."The Great Bend City Council voted 6-0 to adopt an ordinance regulating the
costs of the blood draws to be recoverable in municipal court cases. Kansas
statutes already require that sentences in DUI cases include a laboratory fee
to defray the costs of testing the samples at the KBI laboratory.
Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark said a new agreement with the hospital
will charge just under $100 for the blood draws.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

DUI convictions in Great Bend will now cost a little more

Virtual Learning Series Living Well Wednesday will begin its fall series in October. It will be the first Wednesday of the month at 12:10pm. Here is the amazing line up for October 2023-December 2023.

October 4: It's not so Kool to JUUL

Vaping is the new epidemic among youth. 25% of Kansas High School students currently vape or have vaped. What do we know about Vaping? What does it look like and who is behind this epidemic and why? So, how can we help educate the public and youth? We have learned many things about vaping in the past few years, it causes depression, is very addictive, and hard to quit. Kansas has several programs that are available to help combat this vaping problem among our youth. These topics will be discussed as well as the work going on in prevention.

Presenter: Donna Gerstner, LiveWell Finney County CDRR Grant Coordinator and the E- Cig Prevention Grant Coordinator

November 1: Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried Do Parents Need to Be?

This program will examine the current state of teen mental health and decipher for parents what is normal teen stress versus when professional help maybe needed. Parents want to say the right thing when their child talks about their stresses, but sometimes it is hard to find the words. This will give parents scripts and strategies to talk about these tricky topics. Christy Perez, a licensed clinical counselor, will be available to answer any of those hard questions parents may have.

Presenters: Christine D. Perez, EdS, LCPC; Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Director of Crisis Services @ Crawford County Mental Health Center

Erin Tynon, M.S in Family Life Education and Consultation; Family Consumer Science Agent, Pottawatomie County

December 6: Rapid Development of Baby Brains and Why it Matters

Offered in Spanish on Thursday, December 7 at 11 a.m.

This session will describe the importance of early experiences for babies because of their rapid brain development. Discuss the effects of stress and trauma on brain development and actions that provide protective factors for healthy brain development in babies.

Presenters: Dr. Bradford Wiles, Kansas State University Child Development Specialist

Monique Koerner, Community Wellness Extension Agent, Cottonwood District

Tristen Cope, Family and Youth Development Agent, Chisholm Trail District

Presenter for Spanish: Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life &amp; Resource Management Agent, Sedgwick County

We are hoping to reach parents of all ages and those that interact with youth. Spanish versions will also be available through a live webinar on December 7; other topics will be offered through prerecording with links posted on website: https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/

Mark your calendars and join us! If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with me.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Virtual Learning Series Living Well Wednesday will begin its fall series in October. It will be the first Wednesday of the month at 12:10pm. Here is the amazing line up for October 2023-December 2023.October 4: It's not so Kool to JUULVaping is the new epidemic among youth. 25% of Kansas High School students currently vape or have vaped. What do we know about Vaping? What does it look like and who is behind this epidemic and why? So, how can we help educate the public and youth? We have learned many things about vaping in the past few years, it causes depression, is very addictive, and hard to quit. Kansas has several programs that are available to help combat this vaping problem among our youth. These topics will be discussed as well as the work going on in prevention.Presenter: Donna Gerstner, LiveWell Finney County CDRR Grant Coordinator and the E- Cig Prevention Grant CoordinatorNovember 1: Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried Do Parents Need to Be?This program will examine the current state of teen mental health and decipher for parents what is normal teen stress versus when professional help maybe needed. Parents want to say the right thing when their child talks about their stresses, but sometimes it is hard to find the words. This will give parents scripts and strategies to talk about these tricky topics. Christy Perez, a licensed clinical counselor, will be available to answer any of those hard questions parents may have.Presenters: Christine D. Perez, EdS, LCPC; Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Director of Crisis Services @ Crawford County Mental Health CenterErin Tynon, M.S in Family Life Education and Consultation; Family Consumer Science Agent, Pottawatomie CountyDecember 6: Rapid Development of Baby Brains and Why it MattersOffered in Spanish on Thursday, December 7 at 11 a.m.This session will describe the importance of early experiences for babies because of their rapid brain development. Discuss the effects of stress and trauma on brain development and actions that provide protective factors for healthy brain development in babies.Presenters: Dr. Bradford Wiles, Kansas State University Child Development SpecialistMonique Koerner, Community Wellness Extension Agent, Cottonwood DistrictTristen Cope, Family and Youth Development Agent, Chisholm Trail DistrictPresenter for Spanish: Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life &amp; Resource Management Agent, Sedgwick CountyWe are hoping to reach parents of all ages and those that interact with youth. Spanish versions will also be available through a live webinar on December 7; other topics will be offered through prerecording with links posted on website: https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/Mark your calendars and join us! If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with me.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Living Well Wednesday

Staff at the Barton County Landfill use a variety of equipment to keep the facility operating smoothly. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission made the job a little easier by approving the purchase of a Bob-Tach Backhoe attachment for a 2021 Bobcat T770 skid steer loader. Solid Waste Director Jennifer Hamby explained the need.

"This attachment would be very beneficial to the landfill for digging trenches, ditches for stormwater control, cleaning our leachate ponds, and sand removal for the MSW (Municipal Solid Waste) section tie-ins," she said.

Last year, Hamby had to pay approximately $3,000 to rent the same equipment for a week for the MSW tie-in work. There were compatibility issues with finding the equipment, but Hamby found two priced comparably. 

"Every new phase they build they split up into three sections so we'll have to do this twice every new phase," she said. "It would pay for itself easily." 

The county agreed to purchase the equipment from Bobcat of Salina for $6,535. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656533673238.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostStaff at the Barton County Landfill use a variety of equipment to keep the facility operating smoothly. Tuesday morning, the Barton County Commission made the job a little easier by approving the purchase of a Bob-Tach Backhoe attachment for a 2021 Bobcat T770 skid steer loader. Solid Waste Director Jennifer Hamby explained the need."This attachment would be very beneficial to the landfill for digging trenches, ditches for stormwater control, cleaning our leachate ponds, and sand removal for the MSW (Municipal Solid Waste) section tie-ins," she said.Last year, Hamby had to pay approximately $3,000 to rent the same equipment for a week for the MSW tie-in work. There were compatibility issues with finding the equipment, but Hamby found two priced comparably. "Every new phase they build they split up into three sections so we'll have to do this twice every new phase," she said. "It would pay for itself easily." The county agreed to purchase the equipment from Bobcat of Salina for $6,535.

Barton Commission approves purchase of backhoe attachment for landfill

The City of Hoisington’s effort to retain and recruit staff, while still
serving the public, will be changing its employee schedule. Staff will be
available to the public 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. on Friday.


In the past, the city staff was not available over the noon hour. That changes
with the adjustment as city employees will work nine-hour days Monday through Thursday.
In return, workers will have Friday afternoons off, according to City Manager
Jonathan Mitchell.


"That's something we're doing in an effort to keep our staff there and continue to recruit that younger generation that is looking for that," said Mitchell. "That will go into effect October 2nd. Please help to spread the word on that."

Over the past 15 years, the City of Hoisington has reduced its staff by more
than 30 percent. The city currently has just under 30 employees. 


Again, the schedule adjustment for Hoisington city employees will go into
effect Oct. 2.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695053170908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe City of Hoisington’s effort to retain and recruit staff, while still
serving the public, will be changing its employee schedule. Staff will be
available to the public 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. on Friday.
In the past, the city staff was not available over the noon hour. That changes
with the adjustment as city employees will work nine-hour days Monday through Thursday.
In return, workers will have Friday afternoons off, according to City Manager
Jonathan Mitchell.
"That's something we're doing in an effort to keep our staff there and continue to recruit that younger generation that is looking for that," said Mitchell. "That will go into effect October 2nd. Please help to spread the word on that."Over the past 15 years, the City of Hoisington has reduced its staff by more
than 30 percent. The city currently has just under 30 employees. 
Again, the schedule adjustment for Hoisington city employees will go into
effect Oct. 2.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Hoisington adjusts city employees’ schedule; Friday afternoons off

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (9/18)


At 3:23 a.m. utility problems were reported at 612 Windmill Ln.



At 11:33 a.m. a structure fire was reported at 323 N. Washington Avenue.



At 1:17 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at K-96 Highway &amp; NW 40
Avenue.



At 2:57 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at E. US 56 Highway.


Great Bend Police Department incident
log (9/18)


At 12:55 a.m. Angela Allen reported a noise complaint at 1311 Coolidge.



At 7:21 a.m. diabetic problems were reported at 1101 Kansas Avenue.



At 7:56 a.m. an accident was reported in the 1900 block of 24th
Street.



At 12:12 p.m. a fire alarm was reported at 4500 Camelot East.



At 4:19 p.m. a vehicle being broken into was reported at 1010 Frey Street.



At 6:38 p.m. a carbon monoxide alarm was reported at 3224 27th
Street.



At 7:41 p.m. a camper with expired tags parked in the area was reported at 8th
&amp; Main.



At 11:30 p.m. a noise complaint was reported in the 1400 block of 12th
Street.




<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (9/18)

Utility Problems

At 3:23 a.m. utility problems were reported at 612 Windmill Ln.

Structure Fire

At 11:33 a.m. a structure fire was reported at 323 N. Washington Avenue.

Driving / Driver Complaint

At 1:17 p.m. a driving complaint was reported at K-96 Highway &amp; NW 40
Avenue.

Cattle Out

At 2:57 p.m. a report of cattle out was made at E. US 56 Highway.

Great Bend Police Department incident
log (9/18)

Noise Complaint

At 12:55 a.m. Angela Allen reported a noise complaint at 1311 Coolidge.

Diabetic Problems

At 7:21 a.m. diabetic problems were reported at 1101 Kansas Avenue.

Non-Injury Accident

At 7:56 a.m. an accident was reported in the 1900 block of 24th
Street.

Structure Fire

At 12:12 p.m. a fire alarm was reported at 4500 Camelot East.

Burglary / Not in Progress

At 4:19 p.m. a vehicle being broken into was reported at 1010 Frey Street.

Carbon Monoxide

At 6:38 p.m. a carbon monoxide alarm was reported at 3224 27th
Street.

Parking Complaint

At 7:41 p.m. a camper with expired tags parked in the area was reported at 8th
&amp; Main.

Noise Complaint

At 11:30 p.m. a noise complaint was reported in the 1400 block of 12th
Street.

Cop Shop (9/18)

9/18 BOOKED: Benjamin Hackler on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended and Display of Revoked Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Brent Billinger on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 cash only.

BOOKED: Tara Hammeke on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Erasmo Ortiz-Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $250 C/S.

BOOKED: Tyler Welbrock on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set; and on three Hoisington Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, total bond set at $10,000 C/S and $215 cash only.

BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Interference with LEO and Battery of LEO, no bond set.

RELEASED: Benjamin Hackler on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended and Display of Revoked Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

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

RELEASED: Jerald Postier on Barton County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, after time served.&nbsp;

RELEASED: Laugn Seltmann on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, to CKCC.

RELEASED: Erasmo Ortiz-Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $250 cash bond.

RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Interference with LEO and Battery of LEO, to Juvenile Intake.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632144146661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>9/18 BOOKED: Benjamin Hackler on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended and Display of Revoked Driver's License, bond set at $1,000 C/S.BOOKED: Daisy Cordova on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Brent Billinger on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000 cash only.BOOKED: Tara Hammeke on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Erasmo Ortiz-Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $250 C/S.BOOKED: Tyler Welbrock on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, no bond set; and on three Hoisington Municipal Court warrants for Failure to Appear, total bond set at $10,000 C/S and $215 cash only.BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Interference with LEO and Battery of LEO, no bond set.RELEASED: Benjamin Hackler on Barton County District Court case for Driving While Suspended and Display of Revoked Driver's License, after posting $1,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jonathan Chappell on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.RELEASED: Jerald Postier on Barton County District Court warrant for Contempt of Court, after time served.&nbsp;RELEASED: Laugn Seltmann on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, to CKCC.RELEASED: Erasmo Ortiz-Chavez on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting $250 cash bond.RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Interference with LEO and Battery of LEO, to Juvenile Intake.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (9/18)

Today A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m., then a slight chance of showers between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. South wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. South wind around 10 mph.

Wednesday Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 82. South southeast wind 7 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 60. Southeast wind around 10 mph.

Thursday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 84. South-southeast wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

Thursday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62. Breezy.

Friday A slight chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Friday Night A 30-percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 61. Breezy.

Saturday Sunny, with a high near 79.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 77.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 79.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7 a.m., then a slight chance of showers between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. South wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. South wind around 10 mph.Wednesday Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 82. South southeast wind 7 to 10 mph.Wednesday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 60. Southeast wind around 10 mph.Thursday A 20-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 84. South-southeast wind 9 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.Thursday Night A 40-percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 62. Breezy.Friday A slight chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 20%.Friday Night A 30-percent chance of showers, mainly before 1 a.m. Mostly clear, with a low around 61. Breezy.Saturday Sunny, with a high near 79.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 52.Sunday Sunny, with a high near 77.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53.Monday Sunny, with a high near 79.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The Great Bend Fire Department has been working with Haz-Mat Response to create large upgrades to their training at Fire Station #2 on west 10th
Street. Heavy equipment has been on site to handle dirt work to start a multiple-phase
project. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695092181700.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostThe Great Bend Fire Department has been working with Haz-Mat Response to create large upgrades to their training at Fire Station #2 on west 10th
Street. Heavy equipment has been on site to handle dirt work to start a multiple-phase
project. Great Bend Fire Chief Brent Smith said the improvements will include a
training ground expansion.
"We can't get enough training," said Smith. "It's one thing I really stress. We have to be prepared for everything because our closest neighbors that have that training are a long way away. We need to be able to help our citizens as best we can."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695092212617.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>More buildings will be added to the property to bolster the fire department's
burn facility. A grain bin has been brought to the property to train for agriculture and confined
space rescues. Eventually, a tank car will be added from the railroad that will
allow firefighters to practice dealing with hazardous materials.
"Troy is working with his contacts to hopefully get things to happen," said Smith. "Good things are happening out there. I'd really like to thank Haz-Mat Response for what they've done for us."Smith estimated the complete expansion of the training facility will be spaced
out from now through the end of 2024.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Local