News From The Oil Patch, Aug. 28 John P. Tretbar

U.S. rig counts continued their losing streak. The weekly count from Baker Hughes dropped by eight oil rigs, marking the 11th straight weekly decline in the oil count. The tallies in Texas and New Mexico were each down five rigs, while Louisiana dropped three rigs. The last time the total rig count grew was July 7. But the oil rig hasn't risen since June 9.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service drops 11 percent from last week. Eastern Kansas dropped by five rigs. The tally is now more than 36 percent lower than a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on a lease in Ellis County.

Operators spudded 801 new wells in Kansas so far this year, down by 266 wells from a year ago. Total footage drilled is down 28%. Operators completed 24 wells in Kansas last week, 16 east of Wichita and eight in the western half of the state.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says that's 1,120 completed wells so far this year, up 87 wells from the total a year ago. Kansas regulators okayed 26 new drilling permits, including one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County.

Crude prices in Kansas were down for the second week in a row. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $70 a barrel, gaining 75 cents over Friday. Kansas prices are down a dollar and a half, both from last week and from last month.

Crude futures prices posted their second consecutive weekly loss. At $79.83 a barrel, the Nymex benchmark on Friday settled below $80 for the first time in a week. By lunchtime Monday the near month contract for WTI was slightly higher, trading a few cents over $80. London Brent was trading over $84 per barrel by midday Monday.

The government says some unplanned outages spiked the so-called "crack spreads" at U.S. refineries this summer. And that's been spiking pump prices. The Energy Information Administration says unplanned outages at four major regional refineries were the primary drivers of refinery margins and thus retail prices.&nbsp; The national average pump price for regular gasoline is a little over three eighty-three a gallon, which is down four cents from a week ago, but about 24 cents a gallon more than a month ago and thirty cents higher than two months ago. U.S. inventories are on the rise but remain well below the five year average in both regular gasoline and diesel fuel.

The quest for cheaper diesel fuel took another gut punch over the weekend. Marathon Petroleum shut down the nation's third largest refinery due to a fire on Friday. The blaze was the third to strike the plant in Garyville, Louisiana in less than a year. Diesel futures rose 5% while gasoline futures jumped about 4%. The outage threatens to deplete already below-average diesel stockpiles at a time when US demand for the fuel is set to rise going into the harvest and heating seasons. Diesel prices across the U.S. are up 40 cents per gallon in the last month.

North Dakota operators increased their crude production in June by three percent to nearly 1.2 million barrels per day. That's up more than 32,000 barrels per day from May. State regulators also report a 94% gas-capture rate, down by a percentage point but a possible record for the most natural gas ever recovered at oil wells. That means they're flaring and venting more, but also capturing more.

Regulators in North Dakota have reported on New Mexico's crude-oil production every month since that state supplanted theirs as the second most prolific crude producer in the nation. June numbers from New Mexico remain second-best nationally, down three percent to 1.7 million barrels per day. Texas continues to lead the way, and in fact broke 40-year-old records in June and July at 5.5 million barrels per day. The state accounts for more than 43% of U.S. oil production and nearly 28% of the natural gas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577125598039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News From The Oil Patch, Aug. 28 John P. TretbarU.S. rig counts continued their losing streak. The weekly count from Baker Hughes dropped by eight oil rigs, marking the 11th straight weekly decline in the oil count. The tallies in Texas and New Mexico were each down five rigs, while Louisiana dropped three rigs. The last time the total rig count grew was July 7. But the oil rig hasn't risen since June 9.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service drops 11 percent from last week. Eastern Kansas dropped by five rigs. The tally is now more than 36 percent lower than a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on a lease in Ellis County.Operators spudded 801 new wells in Kansas so far this year, down by 266 wells from a year ago. Total footage drilled is down 28%. Operators completed 24 wells in Kansas last week, 16 east of Wichita and eight in the western half of the state.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says that's 1,120 completed wells so far this year, up 87 wells from the total a year ago. Kansas regulators okayed 26 new drilling permits, including one in Ellis County and one in Stafford County.Crude prices in Kansas were down for the second week in a row. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $70 a barrel, gaining 75 cents over Friday. Kansas prices are down a dollar and a half, both from last week and from last month.Crude futures prices posted their second consecutive weekly loss. At $79.83 a barrel, the Nymex benchmark on Friday settled below $80 for the first time in a week. By lunchtime Monday the near month contract for WTI was slightly higher, trading a few cents over $80. London Brent was trading over $84 per barrel by midday Monday.The government says some unplanned outages spiked the so-called "crack spreads" at U.S. refineries this summer. And that's been spiking pump prices. The Energy Information Administration says unplanned outages at four major regional refineries were the primary drivers of refinery margins and thus retail prices.&nbsp; The national average pump price for regular gasoline is a little over three eighty-three a gallon, which is down four cents from a week ago, but about 24 cents a gallon more than a month ago and thirty cents higher than two months ago. U.S. inventories are on the rise but remain well below the five year average in both regular gasoline and diesel fuel.The quest for cheaper diesel fuel took another gut punch over the weekend. Marathon Petroleum shut down the nation's third largest refinery due to a fire on Friday. The blaze was the third to strike the plant in Garyville, Louisiana in less than a year. Diesel futures rose 5% while gasoline futures jumped about 4%. The outage threatens to deplete already below-average diesel stockpiles at a time when US demand for the fuel is set to rise going into the harvest and heating seasons. Diesel prices across the U.S. are up 40 cents per gallon in the last month.North Dakota operators increased their crude production in June by three percent to nearly 1.2 million barrels per day. That's up more than 32,000 barrels per day from May. State regulators also report a 94% gas-capture rate, down by a percentage point but a possible record for the most natural gas ever recovered at oil wells. That means they're flaring and venting more, but also capturing more.Regulators in North Dakota have reported on New Mexico's crude-oil production every month since that state supplanted theirs as the second most prolific crude producer in the nation. June numbers from New Mexico remain second-best nationally, down three percent to 1.7 million barrels per day. Texas continues to lead the way, and in fact broke 40-year-old records in June and July at 5.5 million barrels per day. The state accounts for more than 43% of U.S. oil production and nearly 28% of the natural gas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Rig counts plummet again

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

As Glennda French takes over as Barton County Register of Deeds on Friday, that means Pam Wornkey's tenure in the position is coming to a close. Wornkey was recognized for her many years of service during Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting. She called it a privilege to serve the county.

"The county has always been my home," she said. "I never really wanted to go or do anything but serve the citizens and work for the county. I just had the opportunity to do that in several different positions. It's been great spending my adult work life with the county."

Wornkey was hired as a dispatcher for the Barton County Sheriff's Office in September 1980. She was promoted to administrative assistant to the sheriff in 1989, and also spent time working in the detention center and for Central Kansas Community Corrections. She was hired in the deeds office in February of 2008 and began her first elected term as register of deeds in 2013. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson provided a final send-off.

"It is said the best indicator of the future is a study of the past," he said. "If it holds true for you, you will continue to be a remarkable presence in this community for years to come. It is apparent from your employment history with the county that you are centered on the greater good."

Darren Williams with Road and Bridge thanked Wornkey for being instrumental in the county's software upgrade for grave markings. French, a current deputy clerk in the office, was appointed to fill Wornkey's spot at a Republican Convention earlier this month. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693324147352.jpeg" alt="Tim and Pam Wornkey with Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Tim and Pam Wornkey with Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostAs Glennda French takes over as Barton County Register of Deeds on Friday, that means Pam Wornkey's tenure in the position is coming to a close. Wornkey was recognized for her many years of service during Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting. She called it a privilege to serve the county."The county has always been my home," she said. "I never really wanted to go or do anything but serve the citizens and work for the county. I just had the opportunity to do that in several different positions. It's been great spending my adult work life with the county."Wornkey was hired as a dispatcher for the Barton County Sheriff's Office in September 1980. She was promoted to administrative assistant to the sheriff in 1989, and also spent time working in the detention center and for Central Kansas Community Corrections. She was hired in the deeds office in February of 2008 and began her first elected term as register of deeds in 2013. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson provided a final send-off."It is said the best indicator of the future is a study of the past," he said. "If it holds true for you, you will continue to be a remarkable presence in this community for years to come. It is apparent from your employment history with the county that you are centered on the greater good."Darren Williams with Road and Bridge thanked Wornkey for being instrumental in the county's software upgrade for grave markings. French, a current deputy clerk in the office, was appointed to fill Wornkey's spot at a Republican Convention earlier this month.

Barton Commission recognizes Wornkey for years of service

The city of Stafford sits just a few miles southwest of the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. But people traveling from out of state to see the refuge may not be aware of the communities in the county. Stafford County Eco Devo is trying to make those communities destination points. Working with the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, the city of Stafford will be part of an Engaging Placemaking for Innovative Communities (EPIC) pilot program.

"We're focused on Stafford mainly, but we'll be doing some stuff in Macksville and St. John, as well," said Eco Devo Director Ryan Russell. "Stafford is the gateway to Quivira, so our theme for this project is called 'A Refuge to Explore.' We wanted to do something that's attached to Quivira, to invite people to our county to see Quivira but also to enjoy the different cities in our county as well."

The project includes the installation of 3D whooping crane statues at entrances to cities. In Stafford, a band shell will be placed in the park and pollinator-friendly plants will be added to help attract Monarch butterflies. A crane mural will be painted on the side of the old lumber yard and steel banners featuring cranes will be added to light poles. The intent is to invite people to the wetland.

"If you go out to Quivira, to the entrance, there's nothing," Russell said. "It's farmland on all sides. I was a little shocked, it being a national wetland of importance, that there's no commerce around Quivira at all."

Russell said there are no places to stop for food or drink immediately around Quivira. He challenged residents of the county to tap into the commercial possibilities the refuge offers to the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679526095691.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe city of Stafford sits just a few miles southwest of the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. But people traveling from out of state to see the refuge may not be aware of the communities in the county. Stafford County Eco Devo is trying to make those communities destination points. Working with the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, the city of Stafford will be part of an Engaging Placemaking for Innovative Communities (EPIC) pilot program."We're focused on Stafford mainly, but we'll be doing some stuff in Macksville and St. John, as well," said Eco Devo Director Ryan Russell. "Stafford is the gateway to Quivira, so our theme for this project is called 'A Refuge to Explore.' We wanted to do something that's attached to Quivira, to invite people to our county to see Quivira but also to enjoy the different cities in our county as well."The project includes the installation of 3D whooping crane statues at entrances to cities. In Stafford, a band shell will be placed in the park and pollinator-friendly plants will be added to help attract Monarch butterflies. A crane mural will be painted on the side of the old lumber yard and steel banners featuring cranes will be added to light poles. The intent is to invite people to the wetland."If you go out to Quivira, to the entrance, there's nothing," Russell said. "It's farmland on all sides. I was a little shocked, it being a national wetland of importance, that there's no commerce around Quivira at all."Russell said there are no places to stop for food or drink immediately around Quivira. He challenged residents of the county to tap into the commercial possibilities the refuge offers to the area.

Stafford Eco Devo looking to enhance gateway to Quivira

Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/28)


At 1:33 a.m. a fire was reported at NE 110 Avenue &amp; NE 70 Road in Claflin.



At 12:03 p.m. a battery case was reported at NW 100 Road in Hoisington.



At 12:29 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 1461 NE 10 Road in Ellinwood.



At 4:23 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1481 NE 70 Avenue in Claflin.



At 8:16 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1326 Susank Road in
Hoisington.



At 10:25 p.m. an accident was reported at E. K-4 Highway &amp; NE 20 Avenue in
Hoisington.


Great Bend Police Department incident
log (8/28)


At 7:43 a.m. an accident was reported at 21st &amp; Jefferson.



At 8:09 a.m. threats were reported at 1919 Harrison Street.



At 11:07 a.m. an assault case was reported at 2535 Lakin Avenue.



At 11:09 a.m. a subject pouring paint into a storm drain was reported at
Hemlock Dr. &amp; Patton Road.



At 11:22 a.m. a motorhome parked on the sidewalk was reported at 3125 27th
Street.



At 11:26 a.m. a report of being threatened by a neighbor was made at 5210 10th
Street.



At 11:36 a.m. a window being broken out on her residence last week was reported
at 3608 Meadowlark Ln.



At 2:36 p.m. a subject dumping trash in the area was reported at 2920 10th
Street.



At 3:26 p.m. an accident was reported at 18th &amp; Washington.



At 3:41 p.m. an accident was reported at 18th &amp; Washington.


At 5:12 p.m. K-9 Menta was used on a traffic stop at 3620 10th
Street.



At 7:01 p.m. theft of a bike was reported in the 200 block of Walnut Street.



At 7:08 p.m. an assault was reported at 2400 Williams.



At 8:53 p.m. Christopher Campbell reported a noise complaint at 3121 24th
Street.



At 9:46 p.m. Johnson Controls reported a structure fire at 2027 Morton.



At 10:27 p.m. Maria Mazurier reported a noise complaint at 5220 10th
Street.



At 10:50 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3701 23rd Street.




<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688655627753.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barton County Sheriff’s
Office incident log (8/28)

Fire

At 1:33 a.m. a fire was reported at NE 110 Avenue &amp; NE 70 Road in Claflin.

Battery

At 12:03 p.m. a battery case was reported at NW 100 Road in Hoisington.

Controlled Burn

At 12:29 p.m. a controlled burn was reported at 1461 NE 10 Road in Ellinwood.

Animal Complaint

At 4:23 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1481 NE 70 Avenue in Claflin.

At 8:16 p.m. an animal complaint was reported at 1326 Susank Road in
Hoisington.

Non-Injury Accident

At 10:25 p.m. an accident was reported at E. K-4 Highway &amp; NE 20 Avenue in
Hoisington.

Great Bend Police Department incident
log (8/28)

Injury Accident

At 7:43 a.m. an accident was reported at 21st &amp; Jefferson.

Threats / Criminal Threats

At 8:09 a.m. threats were reported at 1919 Harrison Street.

Assault

At 11:07 a.m. an assault case was reported at 2535 Lakin Avenue.

Trash Complaint / Dumping

At 11:09 a.m. a subject pouring paint into a storm drain was reported at
Hemlock Dr. &amp; Patton Road.

Parking Complaint

At 11:22 a.m. a motorhome parked on the sidewalk was reported at 3125 27th
Street.

Threats / Criminal Threats

At 11:26 a.m. a report of being threatened by a neighbor was made at 5210 10th
Street.

Criminal Damage

At 11:36 a.m. a window being broken out on her residence last week was reported
at 3608 Meadowlark Ln.

Trash Complaint / Dumping

At 2:36 p.m. a subject dumping trash in the area was reported at 2920 10th
Street.

Injury Accident

At 3:26 p.m. an accident was reported at 18th &amp; Washington.

Non-Injury Accident

At 3:41 p.m. an accident was reported at 18th &amp; Washington.
K-9 Use / Call Out

At 5:12 p.m. K-9 Menta was used on a traffic stop at 3620 10th
Street.

Theft

At 7:01 p.m. theft of a bike was reported in the 200 block of Walnut Street.

Assault

At 7:08 p.m. an assault was reported at 2400 Williams.

Noise Complaint

At 8:53 p.m. Christopher Campbell reported a noise complaint at 3121 24th
Street.

Structure Fire

At 9:46 p.m. Johnson Controls reported a structure fire at 2027 Morton.

Noise Complaint

At 10:27 p.m. Maria Mazurier reported a noise complaint at 5220 10th
Street.

Chest Pain

At 10:50 p.m. EMS assistance was needed at 3701 23rd Street.

Cop Shop (8/28)

8/28 BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, no bond set.

RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, to Juvenile Services.

RELEASED: Ashley Smith on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.

RELEASED: Erin Baker on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to treatment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623272376285.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>8/28 BOOKED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, no bond set.RELEASED: Juvenile on Barton County District Court case for Criminal Threat, to Juvenile Services.RELEASED: Ashley Smith on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.RELEASED: Erin Baker on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, to treatment.

Barton County Sheriff's booking activity (8/28)

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

Ideally, most people would like their nearby street or road they commute
on daily to be newly resurfaced. Financially, that is not possible. 

The City of
Great Bend uses a PASER scale to rate all the streets in town, helping staff
determine which street projects should be a priority. The pavement surface
evaluation and rating system ranks all the streets from 1-10. A “1” rating
signifies the worst condition and a “10” rating represents a new street in the
best condition. 

Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley said preventative
steps like chip and seal projects can help prolong the streets’ lives before
having to completely resurface the road. "If the street is a '1' it's not going to deteriorate any worse than what it already is," said Cauley. "We have very few of those, but sometimes those get put on the backburner to allow for streets in relatively good condition to be saved before they deteriorate beyond a condition that will take minimal costs to repair." 
Cauley mentioned the majority of Great Bend’s streets reside within the 4-to-7
rating. A quarter-cent sales tax in Great Bend designates tax funds to finance
construction, reconstruction and maintenance of public streets. Last year, a
portion of McKinley Street was resurfaced and several residential streets
received the chip and seal treatment. 
"We do the best we can with what we have," said Cauley. "Things like the McKinley project is ideal where we went clear down to the base and restructured up there. When you start getting into that full-depth reconstruction, that's a significant chunk of money." 
The 2024 fiscal year balance from the quarter-cent sales tax is expected to
generate $1.3 million. This year’s focuses will be sections of the 281 Bypass, Harrison
Street and 24th Street.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675881952589.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIdeally, most people would like their nearby street or road they commute
on daily to be newly resurfaced. Financially, that is not possible. The City of
Great Bend uses a PASER scale to rate all the streets in town, helping staff
determine which street projects should be a priority. The pavement surface
evaluation and rating system ranks all the streets from 1-10. A “1” rating
signifies the worst condition and a “10” rating represents a new street in the
best condition. Great Bend Public Works Director Jason Cauley said preventative
steps like chip and seal projects can help prolong the streets’ lives before
having to completely resurface the road. "If the street is a '1' it's not going to deteriorate any worse than what it already is," said Cauley. "We have very few of those, but sometimes those get put on the backburner to allow for streets in relatively good condition to be saved before they deteriorate beyond a condition that will take minimal costs to repair." 
Cauley mentioned the majority of Great Bend’s streets reside within the 4-to-7
rating. A quarter-cent sales tax in Great Bend designates tax funds to finance
construction, reconstruction and maintenance of public streets. Last year, a
portion of McKinley Street was resurfaced and several residential streets
received the chip and seal treatment. 
"We do the best we can with what we have," said Cauley. "Things like the McKinley project is ideal where we went clear down to the base and restructured up there. When you start getting into that full-depth reconstruction, that's a significant chunk of money." 
The 2024 fiscal year balance from the quarter-cent sales tax is expected to
generate $1.3 million. This year’s focuses will be sections of the 281 Bypass, Harrison
Street and 24th Street.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Keeping a rating on street conditions throughout Great Bend

Today Sunny, with a high near 91. West wind 6 to 11 mph becoming north in the afternoon.

Tonight Clear, with a low around 60. North-northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 92. West-northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming east-southeast in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 61. South-southeast wind 8 to 11 mph.

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93. South wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 64. Breezy.

Friday Sunny, with a high near 96.

Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 67.

Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 101.

Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68.

Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 101.

Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 70.

Labor Day Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today Sunny, with a high near 91. West wind 6 to 11 mph becoming north in the afternoon.Tonight Clear, with a low around 60. North-northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 92. West-northwest wind 5 to 8 mph becoming east-southeast in the afternoon.Wednesday Night Clear, with a low around 61. South-southeast wind 8 to 11 mph.Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93. South wind 10 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 64. Breezy.Friday Sunny, with a high near 96.Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 67.Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 101.Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68.Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 101.Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 70.Labor Day Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Breezy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday's weather

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/433h63M. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting Aug. 29 9:00 a.m. Until Close 1500 Kansas Avenue, Great Bend I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the August 15, 2023, Budget Hearing and Regular Meeting and the August 22, 2023, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of August 15, 2023, and ending August 29, 2023.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. REGISTER OF DEEDS: Recognizing Pam Wornkey upon Her Retirement: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson will provided details. Pam Wornkey, Register of Deeds, has been employed with the County since February 14, 2008. Previously, she has served the County in both the Sheriff’s Office and Central Kansas Community Corrections. After being appointed as the Deputy in 2009, she was elected as the Register of Deeds. Her first term began in 2013.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. RESOLUTION 2023-22: Establishing Weight Limits for Certain Bridges Maintained by Barton County and Rescinding Resolution 2020-18, Same, Adopted October 26, 2020: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will present details. Engineering load ratings have been performed on certain County-maintained bridges as required by federal regulations. These regulations require that weight limit signs be installed at bridges that do not have enough capacity to safely support State of Kansas legal loads. Should the proposed Resolution be adopted, it would require that the described bridges be posted with weight limits until such time that said bridge is replaced or conditions are corrected.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Fiscal Year 2024 Carry-over Reimbursement Plan Budget: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Amy Boxberger, CKCC Director, will provide details. The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) requires a budget submission of local program funding collected by Community Corrections agencies from program fees and reimbursements. These budgets require the review and approval of the Barton County&nbsp;Commissioners, as the Administrative County for the District to which the plan pertains.

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

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

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials have been invited to a Retirement Celebration honoring Pam Wornkey, Register of Deeds. The event will be held from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m., Thursday, August 31, 2023, at the Register of Deeds Office, 1500 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County business offices will be closed in observance of the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 4, 2023. The Health Department, the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office and the Landfill will also be closed. Emergency services will be in normal operation.

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

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Golden Belt Veterans Memorial project update – Darren Williams, County Works Director; Diana Watson, Administrative Assistant; and Melanie Ryan.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:15 a.m. – Budgetary Submissions – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Dena Popp, 911 Director, is scheduled for August 31, 2023.

VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693230488223.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/433h63M. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting Aug. 29 9:00 a.m. Until Close 1500 Kansas Avenue, Great Bend I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the August 15, 2023, Budget Hearing and Regular Meeting and the August 22, 2023, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Bev Schmeidler, County Clerk, will present details. An Accounts Payable Register will be submitted to the Commission for the period of August 15, 2023, and ending August 29, 2023.III. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.IV. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. REGISTER OF DEEDS: Recognizing Pam Wornkey upon Her Retirement: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Shawn Hutchinson will provided details. Pam Wornkey, Register of Deeds, has been employed with the County since February 14, 2008. Previously, she has served the County in both the Sheriff’s Office and Central Kansas Community Corrections. After being appointed as the Deputy in 2009, she was elected as the Register of Deeds. Her first term began in 2013.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. RESOLUTION 2023-22: Establishing Weight Limits for Certain Bridges Maintained by Barton County and Rescinding Resolution 2020-18, Same, Adopted October 26, 2020: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Barry McManaman, County Engineer, will present details. Engineering load ratings have been performed on certain County-maintained bridges as required by federal regulations. These regulations require that weight limit signs be installed at bridges that do not have enough capacity to safely support State of Kansas legal loads. Should the proposed Resolution be adopted, it would require that the described bridges be posted with weight limits until such time that said bridge is replaced or conditions are corrected.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. CENTRAL KANSAS COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS: Fiscal Year 2024 Carry-over Reimbursement Plan Budget: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Amy Boxberger, CKCC Director, will provide details. The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) requires a budget submission of local program funding collected by Community Corrections agencies from program fees and reimbursements. These budgets require the review and approval of the Barton County&nbsp;Commissioners, as the Administrative County for the District to which the plan pertains.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Hutchinson will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular&nbsp;session shall resume.V. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials have been invited to a Retirement Celebration honoring Pam Wornkey, Register of Deeds. The event will be held from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m., Thursday, August 31, 2023, at the Register of Deeds Office, 1500 Kansas, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County business offices will be closed in observance of the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 4, 2023. The Health Department, the Records Division of the Sheriff’s Office and the Landfill will also be closed. Emergency services will be in normal operation.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Golden Belt Veterans Memorial project update – Darren Williams, County Works Director; Diana Watson, Administrative Assistant; and Melanie Ryan.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:15 a.m. – Budgetary Submissions – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10:45 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Dena Popp, 911 Director, is scheduled for August 31, 2023.VI. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 5, 2023.VII. ADJOURN.

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (8/29)

Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, today announced $117,780 has been awarded in the 2023 Tourism Marketing Grant Awards Program. The grants are designed to assist local tourism organizations or attractions in new or first-time innovative marketing initiatives. The Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau was awarded a $2,849 grant. Russell County Economic Development &amp; CVB received $3,280.

Kansas Tourism will provide funding for 22 projects to enhance and expand advertising efforts to attract new visitors to Kansas and to their destinations.

“Supporting tourist attractions and unique local events across the state just makes good business sense,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Kansas benefits greatly from the $11.2B in total economic impact that the travel and tourism generates annually, and the Department of Commerce will continue providing marketing assistance that helps increase that impact.”

“We are proud to provide support to our dedicated tourism industry partners through these marketing grants,”&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “Increasing visitation to these exciting destinations boosts local economies in a variety of ways.”

Applications were reviewed by a committee of Kansas Tourism representatives. Funding through this partnership with Kansas Tourism is intended to increase travel to tourism destination sites while enhancing the state’s image. This grant leverages Kansas Tourism’s resources and extends the marketing reach of local communities.

To view the complete list of awardees, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvbWFya2V0aW5nLWdyYW50cy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODI4LjgxNzUzNTQxIn0.kK-DhPHXbwHTUtOT_e4NMrXWcyiDfyYrG9Oc6h-2nWk/s/1303136047/br/224903966997-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

For more information about Kansas Tourism grants, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgyOC44MTc1MzU0MSJ9.b2In2EfB5dqU845RiFMXCp312Ai5qa29bPCus2K_6WQ/s/1303136047/br/224903966997-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;or contact Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager Carrie Doud&nbsp;<a href="mailto:carrie.doud@ks.gov">here</a>.

Funding for Kansas Tourism grants is provided by the Economic Development Initiatives Fund (EDIF), which is derived from state lottery proceeds.

About the Kansas Tourism Division: The mission of the Kansas Tourism Division is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities. Kansas Tourism is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce and works hand in hand with other Commerce community programs to elevate and promote Kansas as a tourist destination.&nbsp;Kansas Tourism oversees all tourism marketing and PR for the state, produces travel publications and advertising, manages state Travel Information Centers, manages both the Kansas By-ways program and the Kansas Agritourism program, produces the KANSAS! Magazine, and provides financial and educational support to the tourism industry in Kansas through grants, education, and support.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607112129072.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce, today announced $117,780 has been awarded in the 2023 Tourism Marketing Grant Awards Program. The grants are designed to assist local tourism organizations or attractions in new or first-time innovative marketing initiatives. The Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau was awarded a $2,849 grant. Russell County Economic Development &amp; CVB received $3,280.Kansas Tourism will provide funding for 22 projects to enhance and expand advertising efforts to attract new visitors to Kansas and to their destinations.“Supporting tourist attractions and unique local events across the state just makes good business sense,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Kansas benefits greatly from the $11.2B in total economic impact that the travel and tourism generates annually, and the Department of Commerce will continue providing marketing assistance that helps increase that impact.”“We are proud to provide support to our dedicated tourism industry partners through these marketing grants,”&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “Increasing visitation to these exciting destinations boosts local economies in a variety of ways.”Applications were reviewed by a committee of Kansas Tourism representatives. Funding through this partnership with Kansas Tourism is intended to increase travel to tourism destination sites while enhancing the state’s image. This grant leverages Kansas Tourism’s resources and extends the marketing reach of local communities.To view the complete list of awardees, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvbWFya2V0aW5nLWdyYW50cy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODI4LjgxNzUzNTQxIn0.kK-DhPHXbwHTUtOT_e4NMrXWcyiDfyYrG9Oc6h-2nWk/s/1303136047/br/224903966997-l" target="_blank">here</a>.For more information about Kansas Tourism grants, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDgyOC44MTc1MzU0MSJ9.b2In2EfB5dqU845RiFMXCp312Ai5qa29bPCus2K_6WQ/s/1303136047/br/224903966997-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;or contact Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager Carrie Doud&nbsp;<a href="mailto:carrie.doud@ks.gov">here</a>.Funding for Kansas Tourism grants is provided by the Economic Development Initiatives Fund (EDIF), which is derived from state lottery proceeds.About the Kansas Tourism Division: The mission of the Kansas Tourism Division is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities. Kansas Tourism is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce and works hand in hand with other Commerce community programs to elevate and promote Kansas as a tourist destination.&nbsp;Kansas Tourism oversees all tourism marketing and PR for the state, produces travel publications and advertising, manages state Travel Information Centers, manages both the Kansas By-ways program and the Kansas Agritourism program, produces the KANSAS! Magazine, and provides financial and educational support to the tourism industry in Kansas through grants, education, and support.

Great Bend & Russell CVB receive Kansas Tourism grant

Hear this month's Focus on Stafford County show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Stafford County Economic Development Director Ryan Russell that aired Aug. 24, 2023.

The Focus on Stafford County program airs the fourth Thursday of the month 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 month's Focus on Stafford County show with Eagle Radio's Steve Webster and Stafford County Economic Development Director Ryan Russell that aired Aug. 24, 2023.<div><iframe title="Focus on Stafford County show" 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=az3w5-148b320-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 Focus on Stafford County program airs the fourth Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Focus on Stafford County show

Most folks generally accept that maintaining good health includes an annual visit to the doctor to check their heart, teeth, ears and more.

But Elaine Johannes, K-State Community Healthy Specialist, says there’s more to personal health than some may realize.

“The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has done quite a bit of research over the years that affirms that a little over 50% of our overall health is related to the places that we live, learn, work, play and pray,” said Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University.

Research indicates that being engaged in one’s communities is connected to living longer. We should look for opportunities to be civically engaged, and be aware of opportunities to volunteer and be involved in clubs and organizations. That’s part of civic health.

According to Johannes, civic health reflects the opportunities people have to participate in their communities, and can be summed up in three areas:

· Places – Healthy communities have places where people can get together formally or informally, such as festivals in a city park; or a library with extended hours.

· Processes – Healthy communities make it easier for citizens to have their voices heard. Some examples: Are voting processes easily understood? Do citizens know what it takes to run for public office? Can people participate in meetings in-person and online?

· People – In healthy communities, people get involved as volunteers and in other roles. People are socially engaged.

When the social capital is in place – places, processes and people – the community is fairly strong. Then, the overall health of the people in the community goes up. And there’s research that supports that.

The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute annually publishes the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps for every county in the United States. The report combines data and evidence to support community-led efforts to improve health equity and community power. The yearly report includes links to information specific to Kansas counties, rating each according to such health outcomes as length of life and quality of life; and such health factors as adult smoking, obesity, physical activity and more.

The 2023 report includes information about the civic health of states and counties. Kansas is among 16 states that have more structural barriers to civic health.

Research shows that states with well-resourced civic infrastructure have more civic participation, which is tied to how well and how long we live.

To learn more regarding civic health tune into the weekly radio program, Sound Living, produced by K-State Research and Extension.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379815245.png" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Most folks generally accept that maintaining good health includes an annual visit to the doctor to check their heart, teeth, ears and more.But Elaine Johannes, K-State Community Healthy Specialist, says there’s more to personal health than some may realize.“The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has done quite a bit of research over the years that affirms that a little over 50% of our overall health is related to the places that we live, learn, work, play and pray,” said Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University.Research indicates that being engaged in one’s communities is connected to living longer. We should look for opportunities to be civically engaged, and be aware of opportunities to volunteer and be involved in clubs and organizations. That’s part of civic health.According to Johannes, civic health reflects the opportunities people have to participate in their communities, and can be summed up in three areas:· Places – Healthy communities have places where people can get together formally or informally, such as festivals in a city park; or a library with extended hours.· Processes – Healthy communities make it easier for citizens to have their voices heard. Some examples: Are voting processes easily understood? Do citizens know what it takes to run for public office? Can people participate in meetings in-person and online?· People – In healthy communities, people get involved as volunteers and in other roles. People are socially engaged.When the social capital is in place – places, processes and people – the community is fairly strong. Then, the overall health of the people in the community goes up. And there’s research that supports that.The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute annually publishes the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps for every county in the United States. The report combines data and evidence to support community-led efforts to improve health equity and community power. The yearly report includes links to information specific to Kansas counties, rating each according to such health outcomes as length of life and quality of life; and such health factors as adult smoking, obesity, physical activity and more.The 2023 report includes information about the civic health of states and counties. Kansas is among 16 states that have more structural barriers to civic health.Research shows that states with well-resourced civic infrastructure have more civic participation, which is tied to how well and how long we live.To learn more regarding civic health tune into the weekly radio program, Sound Living, produced by K-State Research and Extension.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Community health boosts personal health

On Saturday, Aug. 26, just after 3 a.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported injury accident at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and US 56 Highway, southwest of the City of Great Bend. 

Upon arrival, deputies discovered a 2008 Kenworth truck tractor and a tank semi-trailer loaded with milk, had overturned and was lying on its side in the west ditch.

Investigation at the scene indicated the commercial vehicle was operated by Gustavo Salazar, age 54 of Granville, Iowa, had failed to stop at the stop sign on Railroad Avenue for westbound traffic. The driver was unable to negotiate the curve going on to US 56 when it overturned. Salazar and a passenger were both treated at the scene for minor injuries and released.

On Saturday, Aug. 26, just after 3 a.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported injury accident at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and US 56 Highway, southwest of the City of Great Bend. Upon arrival, deputies discovered a 2008 Kenworth truck tractor and a tank semi-trailer loaded with milk, had overturned and was lying on its side in the west ditch.Investigation at the scene indicated the commercial vehicle was operated by Gustavo Salazar, age 54 of Granville, Iowa, had failed to stop at the stop sign on Railroad Avenue for westbound traffic. The driver was unable to negotiate the curve going on to US 56 when it overturned. Salazar and a passenger were both treated at the scene for minor injuries and released.

Semi-trailer loaded with milk overturns near Great Bend

On Friday, Aug. 25, at about 11:30 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the 100 block of Northwest 100 Road, just west of Hoisington, for an injury accident involving a pedestrian.

When Sheriff’s deputies arrived, a 20-year-old male identified as Kaden Baird of Ellinwood, was being loaded into an ambulance.

Evidently, for unknown reasons, Baird laid down in the eastbound lane on the blacktop road. A 1997 Buick Century, operated by Ricky McGinnis age 66 of Hoisington, was eastbound and did not see Baird laying in the roadway. McGinnis attempted to take evasive action but ran over Baird’s legs.

Baird was transported to Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington and later transported to a Wichita area hospital with serious injuries. Witnesses who had been with Baird earlier stated he was highly intoxicated at the time of the incident. McGinnis and a passenger in his vehicle were not injured.

The accident is still under investigation.

On Friday, Aug. 25, at about 11:30 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the 100 block of Northwest 100 Road, just west of Hoisington, for an injury accident involving a pedestrian.When Sheriff’s deputies arrived, a 20-year-old male identified as Kaden Baird of Ellinwood, was being loaded into an ambulance.Evidently, for unknown reasons, Baird laid down in the eastbound lane on the blacktop road. A 1997 Buick Century, operated by Ricky McGinnis age 66 of Hoisington, was eastbound and did not see Baird laying in the roadway. McGinnis attempted to take evasive action but ran over Baird’s legs.Baird was transported to Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington and later transported to a Wichita area hospital with serious injuries. Witnesses who had been with Baird earlier stated he was highly intoxicated at the time of the incident. McGinnis and a passenger in his vehicle were not injured.The accident is still under investigation.

Ellinwood man lying in the road ran over near Hoisington

When Juvenile Services (JS) staff members interact with law-enforcement officers, the topic of discussion usually involves some type of immediate crisis. Just part of the job.

However, a recent training event brought the two professions together in a setting where they could sit down and talk without the day-to-day pressures.

The 2023 Kansas Juvenile Officers Association Conference attracted officials from throughout the state, including several from local and area agencies.

“The agenda was chock-full of timely topics and information about trends,” said Marissa Woodmansee, JS director. “But a highlight for me was being reminded of the importance of not letting our practices become stagnant. We can’t let our guard down because we don’t think bad things can happen to us.”

Agenda topics included: juvenile alcohol and drug use; the Aztec, N.M., school shooting; juvenile statutes; school resource officer/administration search &amp; seizure; strengthening school security; warning signs and threat assessments of school shootings and other incidents; and living a purposeful life.

“The importance of being diligent about school safety and drug interdiction was a regular theme throughout the conference,” Woodmansee commented. “For example, we know that fentanyl is here and young people are using it. It was good to talk to representatives from other communities about opiates, marijuana and other drugs.”

While marijuana is not legal in Kansas, Woodmansee believes it is just a matter of time.

“This is why it was interesting to hear from law enforcement in counties that border Colorado, where it is legal,” she noted. “We heard about what is happening in these counties and how they handle it.”

The Kansas Department of Corrections and Kansas Department of Education also sent representatives to the conference at Wichita.

“With these agencies, there was an emphasis on school resource officers (SROs) and how to be proactive in the community,” Woodmansee explained.

Paul Millard, SRO at the Great Bend Police Department, said the conference was especially productive because it helped cement the day-to-day cooperation between local law enforcement and JS.

“If we detain a juvenile for a criminal act, for instance, many times the next stop is juvenile intake,” Millard said. “We all work with the same kids and it is crucial that we maintain a good relationship with one another.

“This relationship also benefits the juveniles because we unite to build a personal connection with them.”

A conference highlight for Millard was the agenda item that reminded law-enforcement officers that they need to take care of themselves if they want to take care of the community.

“Officers need to lead purposeful lives when they are off-duty,” Millard said. “If officers are struggling at work or home, they can rely on peer support and other resources.

“I have been at the police department for 25 years and have seen good officers who ended up doing something else for a career,” Millard recalled. “We could have retained some really good officers over the years.”

Millard also noted that he and other SROs learned from one another before, during and after the training sessions.

“We bounced ideas off each other and compared notes about school safety,” he said. “It was good to share information and discuss different methods – those that work and those that might not work.”

Other 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services staff members who attended the training are Mike Daniel and Ryan Lichter, supervisors, and Blakelee Cooper, community case manager.

Law-enforcement officers in the district who attended are Emil Halfhill, Ellsworth chief of police, and Mary Kendrick of the Chase Police Department. They serve on the JS Advisory Board, which invited JS staff members to attend the training.

20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake &amp; Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683035444683.jpeg" alt="Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director" />
 <figcaption>Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director</figcaption>
 </figure>When Juvenile Services (JS) staff members interact with law-enforcement officers, the topic of discussion usually involves some type of immediate crisis. Just part of the job.However, a recent training event brought the two professions together in a setting where they could sit down and talk without the day-to-day pressures.The 2023 Kansas Juvenile Officers Association Conference attracted officials from throughout the state, including several from local and area agencies.“The agenda was chock-full of timely topics and information about trends,” said Marissa Woodmansee, JS director. “But a highlight for me was being reminded of the importance of not letting our practices become stagnant. We can’t let our guard down because we don’t think bad things can happen to us.”Agenda topics included: juvenile alcohol and drug use; the Aztec, N.M., school shooting; juvenile statutes; school resource officer/administration search &amp; seizure; strengthening school security; warning signs and threat assessments of school shootings and other incidents; and living a purposeful life.“The importance of being diligent about school safety and drug interdiction was a regular theme throughout the conference,” Woodmansee commented. “For example, we know that fentanyl is here and young people are using it. It was good to talk to representatives from other communities about opiates, marijuana and other drugs.”While marijuana is not legal in Kansas, Woodmansee believes it is just a matter of time.“This is why it was interesting to hear from law enforcement in counties that border Colorado, where it is legal,” she noted. “We heard about what is happening in these counties and how they handle it.”The Kansas Department of Corrections and Kansas Department of Education also sent representatives to the conference at Wichita.“With these agencies, there was an emphasis on school resource officers (SROs) and how to be proactive in the community,” Woodmansee explained.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692991782222.jpeg" alt="Paul Millard, SRO for Great Bend Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Paul Millard, SRO for Great Bend Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Millard, SRO at the Great Bend Police Department, said the conference was especially productive because it helped cement the day-to-day cooperation between local law enforcement and JS.“If we detain a juvenile for a criminal act, for instance, many times the next stop is juvenile intake,” Millard said. “We all work with the same kids and it is crucial that we maintain a good relationship with one another.“This relationship also benefits the juveniles because we unite to build a personal connection with them.”A conference highlight for Millard was the agenda item that reminded law-enforcement officers that they need to take care of themselves if they want to take care of the community.“Officers need to lead purposeful lives when they are off-duty,” Millard said. “If officers are struggling at work or home, they can rely on peer support and other resources.“I have been at the police department for 25 years and have seen good officers who ended up doing something else for a career,” Millard recalled. “We could have retained some really good officers over the years.”Millard also noted that he and other SROs learned from one another before, during and after the training sessions.“We bounced ideas off each other and compared notes about school safety,” he said. “It was good to share information and discuss different methods – those that work and those that might not work.”Other 20th Judicial District Juvenile Services staff members who attended the training are Mike Daniel and Ryan Lichter, supervisors, and Blakelee Cooper, community case manager.Law-enforcement officers in the district who attended are Emil Halfhill, Ellsworth chief of police, and Mary Kendrick of the Chase Police Department. They serve on the JS Advisory Board, which invited JS staff members to attend the training.20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake &amp; Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.

Local officials attend juvenile-related training conference

Heartland Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center is pleased to welcome Gina Liebl, DNP, APRN-C, Nurse Practitioner to the Great Bend clinic.

Gina Liebl is a central Kansas native and graduate of Claflin High School. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Washburn University in 2015. After graduation she worked as a registered nurse in the emergency department. In 2019, Liebl completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice with highest honors, also from Washburn University. Liebl is board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and is a member of the AANP. She began her nurse practitioner career in Wichita, Kansas by continuing her work in the emergency department. In January 2023, she joined the Heartland Dermatology team in Wichita and is looking forward to returning to her hometown to practice at the Great Bend office. She is thankful for the opportunity to give back to the community who has given so much to her.

Gina will join both Rita Stueder, APRN and Dr. Matt Shaffer in providing the Great Bend Region with excellence in dermatology care. Gina will begin seeing patients in the Great Bend clinic October 2023. To schedule an appointment, call 620-792-3666.

About Heartland Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center: Heartland Dermatology has been serving Kansas families since 1977. The practice currently owns and operates 14 convenient locations throughout Kansas in Wichita, Salina, Hays, Great Bend, Newton, Dodge City, Garden City, Concordia, El Dorado, Norton, Scott City, and McPherson. Heartland is committed to setting the standard for excellence in dermatologic care throughout the Heartland by the provision of high-quality comprehensive medical, surgical, pathology, and cosmetic services that are patient-centered, convenient, and accessible.

For more information about Heartland Dermatology, visit www.heartland-derm.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680115282362.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Heartland Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center is pleased to welcome Gina Liebl, DNP, APRN-C, Nurse Practitioner to the Great Bend clinic.Gina Liebl is a central Kansas native and graduate of Claflin High School. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Washburn University in 2015. After graduation she worked as a registered nurse in the emergency department. In 2019, Liebl completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice with highest honors, also from Washburn University. Liebl is board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and is a member of the AANP. She began her nurse practitioner career in Wichita, Kansas by continuing her work in the emergency department. In January 2023, she joined the Heartland Dermatology team in Wichita and is looking forward to returning to her hometown to practice at the Great Bend office. She is thankful for the opportunity to give back to the community who has given so much to her.Gina will join both Rita Stueder, APRN and Dr. Matt Shaffer in providing the Great Bend Region with excellence in dermatology care. Gina will begin seeing patients in the Great Bend clinic October 2023. To schedule an appointment, call 620-792-3666.About Heartland Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center: Heartland Dermatology has been serving Kansas families since 1977. The practice currently owns and operates 14 convenient locations throughout Kansas in Wichita, Salina, Hays, Great Bend, Newton, Dodge City, Garden City, Concordia, El Dorado, Norton, Scott City, and McPherson. Heartland is committed to setting the standard for excellence in dermatologic care throughout the Heartland by the provision of high-quality comprehensive medical, surgical, pathology, and cosmetic services that are patient-centered, convenient, and accessible.For more information about Heartland Dermatology, visit www.heartland-derm.com.<figure>
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Weekend rainfall totals (8/28/23)

8/25 BOOKED: Lucky Baker on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Display of License Plate, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Michael Glass on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Theodore Daniels on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $957.50 cash only.

BOOKED: Samuel Bates on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, bond set at $10,000 C/S.

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

BOOKED: Amanda Shewbart-Hartle on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

BOOKED: Clinton Martin on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.

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

BOOKED: Christopher Herl on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $100 cash only.

RELEASED: Lucky Baker on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Display of License Plate, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Theodore Daniels on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, after posting a $957.50 cash bond.

RELEASED: Larry McVey, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrant, to Lansing Correctional Facility.

RELEASED: Zachary Horyna on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.&nbsp;

RELEASED: Ryan Gilliam on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Scott Delgadillo on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, on 48-hour OR bond.

8/26 BOOKED: Esequiel Calzada-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Assault-Domestic Violence, bond set at $250 C/S.

BOOKED: Dakota Payne on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.

BOOKED: Jawuan Williams on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, bond set at $1,000 C/S.

RELEASED: Esequiel Calzada-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Assault-Domestic Violence, after posting $250 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Samuel Bates on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

RELEASED: Jawuan Williams on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.

RELEASED: Daylan Sherwood on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.

8/27 BOOKED: Clinton Fuzzell on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Transport Open Container, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Fail to Signal, and Unlawful Parking x3, bond set at $2,500 C/S.

8/25 BOOKED: Lucky Baker on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Display of License Plate, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Michael Glass on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $5,000 C/S.BOOKED: Theodore Daniels on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, bond set at $957.50 cash only.BOOKED: Samuel Bates on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, bond set at $10,000 C/S.BOOKED: Zachery Jacobs on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Amanda Shewbart-Hartle on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Clinton Martin on Barton County District Court warrant, to serve sentence.BOOKED: Andrew Tucker on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, no bond set.BOOKED: Christopher Herl on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, bond set at $100 cash only.RELEASED: Lucky Baker on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Display of License Plate, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Theodore Daniels on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court, after posting a $957.50 cash bond.RELEASED: Larry McVey, Jr., on Barton County District Court warrant, to Lansing Correctional Facility.RELEASED: Zachary Horyna on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.&nbsp;RELEASED: Ryan Gilliam on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Around the Clock Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Scott Delgadillo on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Domestic Battery, on 48-hour OR bond.8/26 BOOKED: Esequiel Calzada-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Assault-Domestic Violence, bond set at $250 C/S.BOOKED: Dakota Payne on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, bond set at $50,000 C/S.BOOKED: Jawuan Williams on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, bond set at $1,000 C/S.RELEASED: Esequiel Calzada-Flores on Great Bend Municipal Court case for Assault-Domestic Violence, after posting $250 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Samuel Bates on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended, after posting $10,000 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Jawuan Williams on Barton County District Court case for Possession of Marijuana, after posting a $1,000 cash bond.RELEASED: Daylan Sherwood on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant for Contempt of Court; and on Barton County District Court warrant for Probation Violation, after time served.8/27 BOOKED: Clinton Fuzzell on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Transport Open Container, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Fail to Signal, and Unlawful Parking x3, bond set at $2,500 C/S.BOOKED: Clinton Martin on Barton County District Court case for Probation Violation, bond set at $40,000 C/S.RELEASED: Clinton Fuzzell on Barton County District Court case for Driving Under the Influence, Transport Open Container, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Fail to Signal, and Unlawful Parking x3, after posting $2,500 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.RELEASED: Christopher Herl on Barton County District Court warrant for Failure to Appear, after posting a $100 cash bond.RELEASED: Amanda Shewbart-Hartle on Barton County District Court warrant, after time served.&nbsp;